Electronic device comprising haptic feedback button module

Abstract

An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device may comprise: a housing; a button provided on a side surface of the housing; a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) disposed under the button and including a first sensor and a second sensor mounted on a first surface of the FPCB, wherein the first sensor is configured to detect a first pressure input applied through a first press portion of the button and output a first signal corresponding to the first pressure input, the second sensor is configured to detect a second pressure input applied through a second press portion of the button and output a second signal corresponding to the second pressure input, and the FPCB is electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor; a vibration actuator mounted on the first surface of the FPCB between the first sensor and the second sensor; a vibration driver IC for driving the vibration actuator; a memory including instructions; and at least one processor including processing circuitry. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to identify the type of a button input, received through the button, on the basis of information received through at least one of the first sensor or the second sensor, and cause the vibration actuator to generate a vibration pattern according to the type of the button input.

Description

An electronic device comprising a haptic feedback button module

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a haptic feedback button module.

[0002] Recent advancements in electronic technology have led to the development of electronic devices with haptic feedback capabilities. Smartphones, for example, are prime examples. These devices can provide feedback via haptic motors when a button is pressed.

[0003] The present disclosure addresses at least the problems and / or disadvantages described above and provides at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides an electronic device including a haptic feedback button module.

[0004] Additional disclosures will be set forth in part in the description below, and in part will be apparent from the description below or may be learned by practicing the embodiments presented.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an electronic device comprises: a housing; a button provided on a side of the housing; a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) disposed under the button, the FPCB including a first sensor and a second sensor mounted on a first surface of the FPCB, the first sensor configured to detect a first pressure input applied through a first press portion of the button and output a first signal corresponding to the first pressure input, the second sensor configured to detect a second pressure input applied through a second press portion of the button and output a second signal corresponding to the second pressure input, the FPCB being electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor; a vibration actuator mounted on the first surface of the FPCB between the first sensor and the second sensor; a vibration driver IC for driving the vibration actuator; a memory including instructions; and at least one processor including processing circuitry; wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to identify a button input type received through the button based on information received through at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor, and cause the vibration actuator to generate a vibration pattern according to the button input type.

[0006] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may be configured to include a housing including an outer portion having a coupling hole, an inner portion spaced apart from the outer portion, and a receiving space provided between the outer portion and the inner portion, a button movably inserted into the coupling hole of the outer portion of the housing, and a haptic feedback button module received in the receiving space of the housing and transmitting vibration to the button when pressed by a pressing motion of the button.

[0007] Other aspects, advantages and salient 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 invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device capable of performing the operations described herein.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a bar-type smartphone as an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a haptic feedback button module provided in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 is an exploded view illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 5 is an exploded view illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a stacked structure of components including a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an example of a waterproof member being combined with a button of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a waterproof structure of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a drawing of a button of a haptic feedback button module separated from a coupling hole of a housing, according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a state in which a button of a haptic feedback button module is inserted into a coupling hole of a housing according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a drawing of a button of a haptic feedback button module separated from a coupling hole of a housing, according to one embodiment.

[0020]

[0021] *Figure 13 is a drawing showing a state in which a button of a haptic feedback button module is inserted into a coupling hole of a housing according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 14 is a drawing of a button of a haptic feedback button module separated from a coupling hole of a housing, according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a state in which a button of a haptic feedback button module is inserted into a coupling hole of a housing according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing an example of a haptic feedback button module including a plurality of spacers, according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing an example in which a waterproof member is attached to a housing by a plurality of spacers according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating a haptic feedback operation of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration for performing a haptic feedback operation according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration for performing a haptic feedback operation according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a first force sensor and a second force sensor according to a method of pressing a button of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIGS. 22 and 23 are drawings showing a vibration pattern of a button according to the length of a vibration actuator of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIGS. 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 are drawings showing vibration patterns of a button when a haptic feedback button module includes a single supporter, according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 29 is a drawing showing an example in which a fixing protrusion is provided on a supporter of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 30 is a drawing showing an example in which a supporter is inserted into a receiving space of a housing according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIGS. 31, 32, 33, and 34 are drawings showing vibration patterns of a button when a haptic feedback button module includes a plurality of supporters, according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 35 is a drawing showing an example in which a plurality of holes are provided in a supporter of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 36 is a drawing showing a state in which a vibration actuator is mounted on a supporter of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIGS. 37, 38, 39, 40, 41 and 42 are drawings showing vibration patterns of buttons according to the shape of the buttons of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 43 is an exploded view showing an example of a vibration transmitting member coupled to a waterproof member according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view showing an example in which a vibration transmitting member is coupled to a waterproof member according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 45 is an assembly drawing showing an example of a vibration transmitting member being combined with a waterproof member according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of a waterproof member taken along line B-B' of FIG. 45 according to one embodiment.

[0042] FIGS. 47 and 48 are drawings showing examples of stacking a vibration actuator and first and second force sensors according to one embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 49 is a drawing showing an example in which a vibration actuator and first and second force sensors are in contact with the first protrusion and the second protrusion of the button, according to one embodiment.

[0044] FIGS. 50 to 52 are drawings showing examples in which a vibration actuator and first and second force sensors are arranged on different surfaces of a flexible printed circuit board, according to one embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 53 is a diagram illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 56 is a drawing showing a smartwatch as an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0049] FIGS. 57 and 58 are drawings illustrating a haptic feedback button module applied to a smart watch according to one embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 59 is a drawing showing augmented reality glasses as an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 60 is a drawing showing a haptic feedback button module applied to augmented reality glasses according to one embodiment.

[0052] One or more embodiments according to the present disclosure may have various modifications and multiple embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, this is not intended to limit the scope to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of one or more embodiments according to the present disclosure. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar components.

[0053] The terms and words used in the following detailed description and claims are not intended to be limited to their bibliographic meanings, but are used by the inventors solely to facilitate a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following detailed description of various embodiments of the present disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0054] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form should be understood to include plural references. Thus, for example, reference to "a component surface" includes one or more such surfaces.

[0055] In describing the present disclosure, detailed descriptions of related known functions or configurations will be omitted if they are deemed to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present disclosure. Furthermore, one or more embodiments according to the present disclosure may be modified in various different forms, and the scope of the technical concepts of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments. Rather, these embodiments are provided to further faithfully and completely convey the technical concepts of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0056] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the rights. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0057] In this disclosure, expressions such as “has,” “can have,” “includes,” or “may include” indicate the presence of a corresponding feature (e.g., a component such as a number, function, operation, or part), and do not exclude the presence of additional features.

[0058] In this disclosure, expressions such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and / or B,” or “one or more of A or / and B” can include all possible combinations of the listed items. For example, “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” or “at least one of A or B” can all refer to (1) including at least one A, (2) including at least one B, or (3) including both at least one A and at least one B.

[0059] The expressions “first,” “second,” “first,” or “second,” etc., used in this disclosure can describe various components, regardless of order and / or importance, and are only used to distinguish one component from another, but do not limit the components.

[0060] The expression "configured to" as used in the present disclosure may be used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for," "having the capacity to," "designed to," "adapted to," "made to," or "capable of." The term "configured to" may not necessarily mean only "specifically designed to" in terms of hardware.

[0061] In the present disclosure, a "module" or "part" performs at least one function or operation and may be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software. Furthermore, multiple "modules" or multiple "parts" may be integrated into at least one module and implemented as at least one processor, excluding any "modules" or "parts" that require specific hardware implementation.

[0062] Meanwhile, the various elements and areas in the drawings are schematically drawn. Therefore, the technical concepts of the present disclosure are not limited by the relative sizes or spacings drawn in the attached drawings.

[0063] Hereinafter, one or more embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains can easily practice the present disclosure.

[0064] It should be recognized that the blocks and combinations of the flowcharts in each flowchart can be implemented by one or more computer programs containing computer-executable instructions. The entirety of one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device, or one or more computer programs may be converted into different portions stored in multiple different memory devices.

[0065] Any function or operation described herein may be processed by a single processor or a combination of processors. A single processor or a combination of processors is a circuit that performs processing and includes circuits such as an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), and the like. It includes an artificial intelligence (AI) chip, a Wi-Fi chip, a Bluetooth chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, a connection 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, or a similar chip.

[0066] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device capable of performing the operations described in this document.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device (100) may be one of various forms of electronic devices, such as a laptop (190), smartphones (191) having various form factors (e.g., a bar-type smartphone (191-1), a foldable-type smartphone (191-2), or a sliderable (or rollable) type smartphone (191-3)), a tablet (192), a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch (193), augmented reality glasses (194)), a cellular phone (not shown), and other similar computing devices (not shown). The components, their relationships, and their functions illustrated in FIG. 1 are exemplary only and do not limit the implementations described or claimed in this document. The electronic device (100) may be referred to as a mobile device, a user device, a multi-function device, a portable device, or a server.

[0068] The electronic device (100) may include components including at least one processor (110), at least one memory (120) (hereinafter referred to as memory (120)), at least one display (140) (hereinafter referred to as display (140)), at least one image sensor (150) (hereinafter referred to as image sensor (150)), at least one communication circuit (160) (hereinafter referred to as communication circuit (160)), and / or at least one sensor (170) (hereinafter referred to as sensor (170)), a microcontroller unit (MCU) (131), a haptic driver integrated circuitry (IC) (133), and a power management integrated circuitry (PMIC) (180). The above components are merely exemplary. For example, the electronic device (100) may include other components (e.g., audio processing circuitry, an audio output module, an antenna, a rechargeable battery, or an input / output interface). For example, some components may be omitted from the electronic device (100). For example, some components may be integrated into one component.

[0069] At least one processor (110) may be implemented as one or more IC (integrated circuit (or circuitry)) chips and may perform various data processing. At least one processor (110) may include at least one electrical circuit and may individually or collectively perform distributed processing of instructions (or programs, data, etc.) stored in a memory (120). At least one processor (110) may include a processor assembly including one or more processing circuits. At least one processor (110) may include any processing circuit operative to control the performance and operations of one or more components of the electronic device (100) (e.g., memory (120), MCU (131), haptic driver IC (133), vibration actuator (135), display (140), image sensor (150), communication circuit (160), sensor (170), and / or PMIC (180)). For example, at least one processor (110) (e.g., an application processor (AP)) may be implemented as a system on chip (SoC) (e.g., a single chip or chipset). For example, at least one processor (110) may be implemented as a plurality of cores (or at least one core circuit), a plurality of chips, or a plurality of chipsets. For example, at least one processor (110) may include one or more processing circuits. For example, at least one processor (110) may include one or more processing circuits configured to individually and / or collectively perform various functions of the present disclosure.As a non-limiting example, at least a portion of at least one processor (110) may be included in a first chip of the electronic device (100), and at least another portion of at least one processor (110) may be included in a second chip of the electronic device (100) that is different from the first chip of the electronic device (100).

[0070] For example, at least one processor (110) may include a central processing unit (CPU) (111), a graphics processing unit (GPU) (112), a neural processing unit (NPU) (113), an image signal processor (ISP) (114), a display controller (115), a memory controller (116), a storage controller (117), a communication processor (CP) (118), and / or a sensor interface (119). These components of at least one processor (110) are merely exemplary. For example, at least one processor (110) may further include other components. For example, some components of at least one processor (110) may be omitted from at least one processor (110). For example, some components of at least one processor (110) may be included as separate components of the electronic device (100) outside of at least one processor (110). For example, some components of at least one processor (110) (e.g., a memory controller (116)) may be included within other components (e.g., at least a portion of a memory (120), an interface (e.g., available for connection to at least one component of the electronic device (100)), a display (140) and / or an image sensor (150)).

[0071] At least one processor (110) may cause other components of the electronic device (100) to perform various operations by executing instructions stored in the memory (120). The CPU (111) (or central processing circuit) may be configured to control components of the at least one processor (110) based on the execution of instructions stored in the memory (120) (e.g., volatile memory (121) and / or non-volatile memory (122)). The GPU (112) (or graphics processing circuit) may be configured to execute parallel operations (e.g., rendering). The NPU (113) (or neural processing circuit, or artificial intelligence (AI) chip) may be configured to execute operations for an artificial intelligence model (e.g., convolution computation). The ISP (114) (or image signal processing circuit) may be configured to process a raw image acquired through the image sensor (150) into a format suitable for a component within the electronic device (100) or a component of at least one processor (110). The display controller (115) (or display control circuit, or display processing unit (DPU)) may be configured to process an image acquired from the CPU (111), the GPU (112), the ISP (114), or the memory (120) (e.g., the volatile memory (121)) into a format suitable for the display (140). The memory controller (116) (or memory control circuit) may be configured to control reading data from the volatile memory (121) and writing data to the volatile memory (121). The storage controller (117) (or storage control circuit) may be configured to control reading data from the nonvolatile memory (122) and writing data to the nonvolatile memory (122).The CP (118) (communication processing circuit) may be configured to process data acquired from at least one component of the processor (110) into a format suitable for transmitting to another electronic device via the communication circuit (160), or to process data acquired from another electronic device via the communication circuit (160) into a format suitable for processing by the component of at least one processor (110). For example, the communication circuit (160) may include one or more communication circuits. The sensor interface (119) (or sensing data processing circuit, sensor hub) may be configured to process data about the state of the electronic device (100) and / or the state of the surroundings of the electronic device (100), acquired via the sensor (170), into a format suitable for the component of at least one processor (110).

[0072] The memory (120) may include one or more storage media (or one or more storage devices). For example, the memory (120) may include a memory assembly including one or more storage media. For example, the one or more storage media may include permanent memory (e.g., non-volatile memory (122)) such as a hard drive, flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), semi-permanent memory (e.g., volatile memory (121)) such as random access memory (RAM), any other suitable type of storage (or storage assembly), or any combination thereof. The memory (120) may include cache memory, which is one or more different types of memory used to temporarily store data for a function or feature of the electronic device (100). As a non-limiting example, the cache memory may be included within at least one processor (110). The memory (120) may be fixedly embedded within the electronic device (100) or incorporated into one or more suitable types of components (e.g., a subscriber identity module (SIM) card and / or a secure digital (SD) card) that may be repeatedly inserted into and removed from the electronic device (100).

[0073] For example, the memory (120) may store one or more software applications, such as an operating system (or system) software application, a firmware software application, a driver software application, a plug-in (e.g., add-in, add-on, and / or applet) software application, and / or any other suitable software applications. For example, the one or more software applications may include instructions executable by at least one processor (110). For example, the memory (120) may store instructions callable by an application programming interface (API). For example, the memory (120) may store instructions within a library.

[0074] The MCU (microcontroller unit) (131) can control the sensor (170) and input / output devices and perform system management tasks in a low-power state. For example, the MCU (130) can process and control sensor data acquired through an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a temperature sensor. The MCU (130) can control buttons (210, 220 of FIG. 2), a display (140 or 240 of FIG. 2) (e.g., a touchscreen), and a camera module provided in the electronic device (100). The MCU (130) can perform battery management, power control, and system initialization tasks. The haptic driver IC (133) can be controlled by the processor (110) or the MCU (131) to drive the vibration actuator (135). The haptic driver IC (133) may be referred to as a 'vibration driver IC'. The vibration actuator (135) is controlled by the haptic driver IC (133) and may generate vibration according to one or more vibration patterns to provide physical feedback. In the present disclosure, the haptic driver IC (133) may be referred to as a vibration driver IC (vibration driver integrated circuitry).

[0075] The PMIC (180) can perform power management of the electronic device (100). For example, the PMIC (180) can perform power distribution, power conversion, power consumption optimization, battery management, power sequencing, and / or protection functions. According to one embodiment, the PMIC (180) can convert a sensing value (analog data) acquired through a sensor (170) into a vibration pattern (digital data) in a low-current standby state instead of the processor (110) or the MCU (131).

[0076] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a bar-type smartphone (191-1) (hereinafter, smartphone (191-1)) as an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a haptic feedback button module (200) provided in a bar-type smartphone (191-1) according to one embodiment.

[0077] The haptic feedback button module (200) can be applied to a bar-type smartphone (191-1), but is not limited thereto. For example, the haptic feedback button module (200) can be applied to a laptop (190), a foldable type smartphone (191-2), a sliderable (or rollable) type smartphone (191-3), a tablet (192), a smart watch (193), and augmented reality glasses (194).

[0078] The haptic feedback button module (200) can transmit a predetermined vibration pattern to the button (210) depending on the degree to which the button (210) is pressed (e.g., the amount of pressure applied to the button (210). The button (210) can vibrate according to the vibration pattern and transmit haptic feedback to a body part of the user (hereinafter referred to as “the user’s finger”) that has come into contact with the button (210).

[0079] Referring to FIG. 2, a bar type smartphone (191-1) (hereinafter, smartphone (191-1)) may include a housing (195), a display (140) that may be placed on the front of the housing (195), and a haptic feedback button module (200) provided on one side of the housing (195).

[0080] Most of the components included in the haptic feedback button module (200) may be located on the inside of the housing (195). At least one button (210) (hereinafter referred to as button (210)) included in the haptic feedback button module (200) may be exposed to the outside of the housing (195) so as to be pressed by a user's finger.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 3, a haptic feedback button module (200) may be placed in a receiving space (196d) provided between an outer portion (196a) of a housing (195) and an inner portion (196b) of the housing (195) spaced apart from the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195). The outer portion (196a) and the inner portion (196b) of the housing (195) may be integrally formed by a connecting portion (196c).

[0082] A coupling hole (197a) may be provided in the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195) into which a button (210) of a haptic feedback button module (200) is movably inserted. The button (210) inserted in the coupling hole (197a) may move in a first direction toward the inner portion (196b) of the housing (195) and a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., toward the outer portion of the housing (195). The button (210) may move in the first direction to press at least one force sensor (230) located in the receiving space (196d).

[0083] A gap may be formed between the side (212) of the button (210) and the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195). The button (210) may vibrate due to vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) within the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195).

[0084] A first through hole (197b), a second through hole (197c), and a third through hole (197d) communicating with the coupling hole (197a) may be provided in the inner portion (196b) of the housing (195). The first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) may be movably inserted into the first through hole (197b). The second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) may be movably inserted into the second through hole (197c). The third protrusion (214 of FIG. 5) of the button (210) may be movably inserted into the third through hole (197d).

[0085] The first through hole (197b), the second through hole (197c), and the third through hole (197d) can each be connected to the receiving space (196d) of the housing (195). Accordingly, the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) can contact the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232), respectively, and the third protrusion (214) of the button (210) can contact the vibration actuator (260).

[0086] For example, when a waterproof member (280 in FIG. 4) is arranged on the lower side of the first through hole (197b), the second through hole (197c), and the third through hole (197d), the first protrusion (213a), the second protrusion (213b), and the third protrusion (214) of the button (210) can be positioned adjacent to the first force sensor (231), the second force sensor (232), and the vibration actuator (260), respectively, with the waterproof member (280 in FIG. 4) interposed therebetween. The third protrusion (214) of the button (210) can have the first and second extension portions (214a, 214b) protruding toward the vibration actuator (260). In this case, the vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) can be transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) along the third protrusion (214) of the button (210).

[0087] The button (210) may be formed of a metal material, but is not limited thereto. For example, the button (210) may be formed of a rigid synthetic resin (e.g., engineering plastic). The button (210) may be insert injection molded using different materials. In this case, the button (210) may have a press portion (211) formed of a metal material, and the first, second, and third protrusions (213a, 213b, 214) formed of a synthetic resin.

[0088] Figures 4 and 5 are exploded views illustrating a haptic feedback button module (200) according to one embodiment. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating a stacked structure of components including a haptic feedback button module (200) according to one embodiment. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a haptic feedback button module (200) according to one embodiment.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the haptic feedback button module (200) may include a button (210), a flexible printed circuit board (220) positioned in a receiving space (196d) of a housing (195), at least one force sensor (230) disposed on the flexible printed circuit board (220), a vibration actuator (260) disposed on the flexible printed circuit board (220), and a waterproof member (270). The at least one force sensor (230) may include a first force sensor (231) and a second force sensor (232).

[0090] The button (210) can press at least one force sensor (230) located on the lower side of the button (210) when pressed by a user. The button (210) can have a length longer than the distance between the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) so as to press the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232).

[0091] The button (210) is an input interface that can input a command by pressing at least one force sensor (230). The button (210) is an output interface that transmits haptic feedback to the user by vibrating by a vibration actuator (260). In this way, the button (210) can function as both an input interface and an output interface.

[0092] The button (210) may include a pressing portion (211) that can be pressed by a user, a first protrusion (213a), a second protrusion (213b), and a third protrusion (214) arranged along the lower surface of the pressing portion (211). The first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) may have the same length and may be arranged parallel to each other. The third protrusion (214) may be located between the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b).

[0093] Referring to FIG. 6, the first protrusion (213a) may be positioned coaxially (A1) with the first force sensor (231) to correspond to the first force sensor (231). The second protrusion (213b) may be positioned coaxially (A2) with the second force sensor (232) to correspond to the second force sensor (232). When the button (210) is pressed, the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) may press the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232), respectively.

[0094] For example, when the upper surface of the pressing portion (211) corresponding to the first protrusion (213a) is pressed (see P2 in FIG. 12), the first protrusion (213a) can press the first force sensor (231). When the upper surface of the pressing portion (211) corresponding to the second protrusion (213b) is pressed (see P4 in FIG. 12), the second protrusion (213b) can press the second force sensor (232). When the upper surface of the pressing portion corresponding to the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) is pressed (see P3 in FIG. 12), the first protrusion (213a) can press the first force sensor (231) and the second protrusion (213b) can press the second force sensor (232).

[0095] In this way, depending on the pressing area among the entire upper surface area of ​​the pressing portion (211), only one of the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) can obtain the pressing motion information, or both the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) can obtain the pressing motion information.

[0096] For example, the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) can contact the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232), respectively. The first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) can directly press the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232), respectively.

[0097] For example, a waterproof member (270) may be positioned between the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) and the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232). The first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) may indirectly pressurize the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232), respectively, through the waterproof member (270). In this case, the degree of pressing of the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) may vary depending on the degree of rigidity or elasticity of the waterproof member (270).

[0098] The third protrusion (214) may be positioned corresponding to the vibration actuator (260). The third protrusion (214) may transmit vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) to the pressing portion (211). The third protrusion (214) may function as a vibration transmission passage. For example, the third protrusion (214) may contact the vibration actuator (260). In this case, the third protrusion (214) may directly receive vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260). A waterproof member (270) may be positioned between the third protrusion (214) and the vibration actuator (260). In this case, the third protrusion (214) may indirectly receive vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) through the waterproof member (270).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the haptic feedback button module (200) may include a first protective member (241) and a second protective member (242) for protecting the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232). The first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) may malfunction or be damaged when the pressure limit that the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) can withstand is exceeded by the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210), respectively. The first protective member (241) and the second protective member (242) may be formed of an elastic material.

[0100] The first protective member (241) may be arranged between the first force sensor (231) and the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210). In this case, the upper surface of the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) and the first protective member (241) are configured to contact each other, thereby implementing a zero gap between the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) and the first protective member (241). The lower surfaces of the first force sensor (231) and the first protective member (241) are configured to contact each other, thereby implementing a zero gap between the first force sensor (231) and the first protective member (241). In this case, the first protective member (241) may be arranged to be inserted in a pressed state between the first force sensor (231) and the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210). As a zero gap is implemented between the first force sensor (231) and the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210), the first force sensor (231) can stably detect the pressing by the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) through the first protective member (241).

[0101] The second protective member (242) can be positioned so as to be pressed between the second force sensor (232) and the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210). Accordingly, the second force sensor (232) can stably detect the pressing by the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) through the second protective member (242).

[0102] The first protective member (241) may be arranged to be pressed between the first force sensor (231) and the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210), but is not limited thereto. For example, the first protective member (241) may be arranged between the first force sensor (231) and the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) such that the lower surface of the first protective member (241) contacts the first force sensor (231) and the upper surface of the first protective member (241) contacts the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210), such that substantially no pressure is applied to the first protective member (241). The second protective member (242) can be arranged between the second force sensor (232) and the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) such that the lower surface of the second protective member (242) contacts the second force sensor (232) and the upper surface of the second protective member (242) contacts the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210), such that substantially no pressure is applied to the second protective member (242). Under this arrangement structure, the first force sensor (231) can stably detect the pressing by the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) through the first protective member (241). The second force sensor (232) can stably detect the pressing by the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) through the second protective member (242).

[0103] The flexible printed circuit board (220) may include a connector (253) at one end. The flexible printed circuit board (220) may be electrically connected to a main printed circuit board (100a in FIG. 1). A processor (110), a memory (120), an MCU (131), a haptic driver IC (133), and a PMIC (180) may be arranged on the main printed circuit board (100a in FIG. 1). The processor (110) may control the vibration actuator (260) of the haptic feedback button module (200) to be driven based on sensing values ​​acquired by the first and second force sensors (231, 232) of the haptic feedback button module (200).

[0104] The vibration actuator (260) may be disposed on a flexible printed circuit board (220). Since the flexible printed circuit board (220) has ductility, the electronic components disposed on the flexible printed circuit board (220) may improve or minimize fatigue failure, which occurs when cracks appear in the solder portion due to vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260), thereby disconnecting the electrical connection. For example, the electronic components disposed on the flexible printed circuit board (220) may include a first force sensor (231), a second force sensor (232), a resistor for driving the first and second force sensors (231, 232), a capacitor, and an AFE (analog front end: an integrated circuit component that converts an analog sensing value into an I2C communication).

[0105] The vibration actuator (260) can generate vibration corresponding to a power pattern transmitted from the processor (110), MCU (131), or PMIC (180). The third protrusion (214) of the button (210) can transmit the vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) to the pressing portion (221) of the button (210). In this case, the vibration can be transmitted to the user's finger that comes into contact with the pressing portion (211) of the button (210).

[0106] The vibration actuator (260) may include a piezoelectric actuator (or piezoelectric ceramic, piezoelectric element). The piezoelectric actuator can obtain the piezoelectric effect that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy and the inverse piezoelectric effect that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. According to one embodiment, the piezoelectric actuator can generate vibration by utilizing the inverse piezoelectric effect. When electricity is applied, the piezoelectric actuator vibrates by repeating contraction and expansion.

[0107] The vibration actuator (260) may be positioned between the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232). The vibration actuator (260) may be positioned on the same side of the flexible printed circuit board (220) as the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232).

[0108] The vibration actuator (260) may be positioned as close to the button (210) as possible inside the housing (195). For example, the vibration actuator (260) may be positioned in direct contact with the third protrusion (214) of the button (210) or adjacent thereto with a waterproof member (270) therebetween.

[0109] The haptic feedback button module (200) can vibrate the button (210) within the shortest time (e.g., several to several tens of ms) by the vibration actuator (260) that operates after the button (210) is pressed, as the vibration actuator (260) is positioned adjacent to the third protrusion (214) of the button (210). The haptic feedback button module (200) can immediately transmit vibration to the button (210) through the vibration actuator (260) almost simultaneously with the pressing of the button (210) (with an extremely short time difference). Therefore, the haptic feedback button module (200) can transmit vivid and intuitive haptic feedback to the user's finger.

[0110] The waterproof member (270) can improve or block the inflow of liquid (e.g., water, sweat, or foreign substances) into the interior of the housing (195) through the connecting hole (197a) into which the button (210) is inserted in the haptic feedback button module (200). The waterproof member (270) can be made of an elastic material (e.g., rubber or sponge).

[0111] The waterproof member (270) may be placed in the receiving space (196d) of the housing (195). The upper surface of the waterproof member (270) may be in close contact with the lower surface of the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195) so as to be watertight. In this case, a first rib (271), a second rib (272), and a third rib (273) may be placed at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the waterproof member (270) on the upper surface of the waterproof member (270). The first rib (271), the second rib (272), and the third rib (273) may each be configured in a closed loop shape.

[0112] The first rib (271) can be in close contact with the lower surface of the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195) and surround the periphery of the first through hole (197b in FIG. 3) (see FIG. 7). The second rib (272) can be in close contact with the lower surface of the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195) and surround the periphery of the second through hole (197c in FIG. 3). The third rib (273) can be in close contact with the lower surface of the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195) and surround the periphery of the third through hole (197d in FIG. 3).

[0113] The first support plate (280) may have first, second and third holes (281, 282, 283) formed so that a plurality of contact portions (271b, 272b, 273b, 273c) protruding from the lower surface of the waterproof member (270) may penetrate the first support plate (280) and come into contact with the first force sensor (231), the second force sensor (232) and the vibration actuator (260).

[0114] The plurality of contact portions (271b, 272b, 273b, 273c) of the waterproof member (270) may include a first contact portion (271b) corresponding to the first force sensor (231), a second contact portion (272b) corresponding to the second force sensor (232), and third and fourth contact portions (273b, 273c) corresponding to the vibration actuator (260). When the first protective member (241) is provided on the first force sensor (231), the first contact portion (271b) may be in contact with the first protective member (241). When the second protective member (242) is provided on the second force sensor (232), the second contact portion (272b) may be in contact with the second protective member (242). Since the waterproof member (270) is in contact with the vibration actuator (260) without a gap through the third and fourth contact portions (273b, 273c), vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) can be smoothly transmitted to the waterproof member (270).

[0115] The first support plate (280) may be supported at both ends by the second support plate (250) that supports the flexible printed circuit board (220). For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the second support plate (250) may be provided with a first bending portion (251) and a second bending portion (252) at each end. The first bending portion (251) and the second bending portion (252) of the second support plate (250) may be bent toward the upper side of the second support plate (250). The first support plate (280) may be spaced apart from the second support plate (250) by the first bending portion (251) and the second bending portion (252) of the second support plate (250).

[0116] Referring to FIG. 7, the waterproof member (270) may be supported by a first support plate (280) having rigidity. The first support plate (280) may be bonded to the lower surface of the waterproof member (270) via an adhesive (285). The adhesive (285) may be, for example, a double-sided tape. A third support plate (261) may be mounted on the upper surface of the vibration actuator (260). The third support plate (261) may be bonded to the lower surface of the first support plate (280) via an adhesive (263). The vibration actuator (260) may be disposed between the flexible printed circuit board (220) and the third support plate (261).

[0117] The waterproof member (270) of the haptic feedback button module (200) is configured in a roughly plate shape and includes a first rib (271), a second rib (272), and a third rib (273) that are watertightly attached to the lower surface of the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195). The waterproof member (270) of the haptic feedback button module (200) is not limited to this structure and arrangement. Hereinafter, the waterproof member (270') of the haptic feedback button module (200') will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0118] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an example in which a waterproof member (270') is coupled to a button (210') of a haptic feedback button module (200') according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a waterproof structure of a haptic feedback button module (200') according to one embodiment.

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the haptic feedback button module (200') may include a ring-shaped waterproof member (270'). The waterproof member (270') may include a first seal ring (270a'), a second seal ring (270b'), and a third seal ring (270c') that are respectively coupled to the first protrusion (213a'), the second protrusion (213b'), and the third protrusion (214') of the button (210').

[0120] The first seal ring (270a') can be coupled to a fixing groove (198') formed along the outer surface of the first protrusion (213a') of the button (210'). The first seal ring (270a') can be inserted into a first through hole (197b') provided in the outer side (196a') of the housing (195') together with the first protrusion (213a') of the button (210'). The first seal ring (270a') can be watertightly pressed against the inner side (197b-1') of the first through hole (197b'). The second seal ring (270b') and the third seal ring (270c') can be watertightly arranged in the second through hole and the third through hole provided in the outer side (196a') of the housing (195'), respectively. The first seal ring (270a')

[0121] The first seal ring (270a'), the second seal ring (270b'), and the third seal ring (270c') may be made of an elastic material so as not to interfere with the pressing motion or vibration of the button (210').

[0122] In this way, when the waterproof member (270') is composed of the first, second and third seal rings (270a', 270b', 270c'), the first, second and third protrusions (213a', 213b', 214') of the button (210') can each directly contact the vibration actuator (260').

[0123] FIGS. 10 and 11 are drawings showing, respectively, before and after a button (210) of a haptic feedback button module (200) is inserted into a coupling hole (197a) of a housing (195) according to one embodiment.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 10, the button (210) of the haptic feedback button module (200) can be coupled to the housing (195) from the outside of the housing (195). For example, the button (210) can be coupled to the housing (195) by first and second coupling members (215a, 215b) fixed to the lower surface of the pressing portion (211) of the button (210).

[0125] The first coupling member (215a) may be positioned adjacent to the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210), and the second coupling member (215b) may be positioned adjacent to the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) (see FIG. 5). The first and second coupling members (215a, 215b) may be formed of an elastic material so as to be snap-fittable into the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195).

[0126] The first coupling member (215a) may be provided with first and second hooks (215a-1, 215a-2) on both sides. The first and second hooks (215a-1, 215a-2) may be provided with slidable inclined surfaces (216a-1, 216a-2) along the inner circumferential surface (197a-1) of the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195) so that the first and second hooks (215a-1, 215a-2) may smoothly pass through the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195). The second coupling member (215b) may be configured substantially the same as the first coupling member (215a).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 11, the button (210) can be coupled to the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195) from the outside of the housing (195). The first coupling member (215a) can pass through the coupling hole of the housing (195) and be coupled to the fixing hole (197e). The first and second hooks (215a-1, 215a-2) of the first coupling member (215a) can interfere with the periphery (196a-1, 196a-2) of the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195). Accordingly, the button (210) may not be separated from the housing (195).

[0128] A first gap (G1) may be formed between the lower surface of the first coupling member (215a) and the bottom surface of the first fixing hole (197e). The first gap (G1) may be a space in which the button (210) can move inwardly of the housing (195). Accordingly, the button (210) can move inwardly of the housing (195) by the force with which the user presses the button (210) to press the first and second force sensors (231, 232). The second coupling member (215b) may be coupled to the second fixing hole (197f) in substantially the same manner as the first coupling member (215a) is coupled to the first fixing hole (197e).

[0129] The method of connecting the button (210) to the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195) is not limited to the method of using the first and second coupling members (215a, 215b). Hereinafter, embodiments in which the button (210) can be connected to the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195) will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0130] The button (210) may be elastically supported on the outside of the housing (195) by the waterproof member (270). When the button (210) is released from being pressed by a user, the button (210) moves from the inside of the housing (195) to the outside of the housing (195) by the elasticity of the waterproof member (270). In this case, the button (210) may not be separated from the coupling hole (197a) of the housing (195) by the first and second coupling members (215a, 215b).

[0131] FIGS. 12 and 13 are drawings showing, respectively, before and after a button (210") of a haptic feedback button module is inserted into a coupling hole of a housing according to one embodiment.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 12, the button (210") of the haptic feedback button module (200") may include a connecting member (215"). The connecting member (215") may be inserted into an insertion hole (213a-1") provided in a third protrusion (214") of the button (210"). The connecting member (215") may be formed of a plate spring. In FIG. 12, unexplained reference numeral 197b" designates a first through hole, 197c" designates a second through hole, 213a" designates a first protrusion, and 213b" designates a second protrusion.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 13, when the button (210") is coupled to the coupling hole (197a") of the housing (195"), the coupling member (215") can be snap-fitted to the lower surface of the outer portion (216a") of the housing (210"). The coupling member (215") is inserted into the insertion hole (214-1") of the third protrusion (214"), and both ends (215a", 215b") of the coupling member (215") can be respectively fixed to fixing grooves (197d-1", 197d-2") provided on the lower surface of the outer portion (216a") of the housing (195"). The fixing grooves (197d-1", 197d-2") can be provided around the third through hole (197d").

[0134] The button (210") can be elastically supported in the coupling hole (197a") of the housing (195") by the coupling member (215"). A second gap (G2) can be provided between the lower surface of the pressing portion (211") of the button (210") and the bottom surface of the coupling hole (197a") of the housing (195"). The button (210") can be smoothly pressed by utilizing the free space of the second gap (G2), and when the user's pressing is released, it can be returned to its original position by the elasticity of the coupling member (215").

[0135] According to one embodiment, the coupling member (215") is not limited to a plate spring shape. For example, the coupling member (215") may include a first coil spring and a second coil spring. The first coil spring may have one end fixed to the periphery of the first protrusion (231a") of the button and the coupling hole (197d") of the housing (195"). The second coil spring may have one end fixed to the periphery of the second protrusion (231b") of the button (210") and the coupling hole (197d") of the housing (195").

[0136] FIGS. 14 and 15 are drawings showing, respectively, before and after a button of a haptic feedback button module (2) is inserted into a coupling hole of a housing according to one embodiment.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 14, the button (210''') of the haptic feedback button module (200''') may include first and second coupling members (215a''', 215b'''). The button (210''') is not separated from the coupling hole (197a''') of the housing (195''') to the outside of the housing (195''') by the first and second coupling members (215a''', 215b''').

[0138] The first and second connecting members (215a''', 215b''') may be configured as snap rings (or E-rings). A first connecting groove (213a-1''') to which the first connecting member (215a''') is connected may be provided on the outer periphery of the first protrusion (213a''') of the button (210'''). A second connecting groove (213b-1''') to which the second connecting member (215b''') is connected may be provided on the outer periphery of the second protrusion (213b''') of the button (210''').

[0139] Referring to FIG. 15, after the first protrusion (213a''') of the button (210''') is inserted into the second through hole (197b''') provided in the outer portion (196a''') of the housing (195'''), the first coupling member (215a''') can be coupled to the first coupling groove (213a-1''') of the first protrusion (213a''') of the button (210'''). The second coupling member (215b''') can be coupled to the second coupling groove (213b-1''') of the second protrusion (213b''') of the button (210''') inserted into the third through hole (197c''') of the housing (195'''). The first connecting member (215a''', 215b''') may interfere with the lower surface of the outer portion (196a''') of the housing (195'''), i.e., the periphery of the second and third through holes (197b''', 197c'''). Accordingly, the button (210''') may not be separated from the housing (195''').

[0140] The button (210''') can be elastically supported on the outer side (196a''') of the housing (195''') by the waterproof member (270 in FIG. 4) while being inserted into the first coupling hole (197a''') of the housing (195'''). In this case, a third gap (G3) can be provided between the lower surface of the pressing portion (211''') of the button (210''') and the lower surface of the outer side (196a''') of the housing (195'''). The button (210''') can be smoothly pressed by utilizing the free space of the third gap (G3), and when the user's pressing is released, it can be returned to its original position by the elasticity of the waterproof member (270 in FIG. 4).

[0141] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating an example of a haptic feedback button module including a plurality of spacers, according to one embodiment. FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating an example of a waterproof member being adhered to a housing by a plurality of spacers, according to one embodiment.

[0142] The second support plate (250) mounted on the upper surface of the inner side (196b) of the housing (195) may have a thickness set to allow the waterproof member (270) to be in close contact with the lower surface of the outer side (196a) of the housing (195). For example, when the thickness of the second support plate (250) is less than the set thickness, the waterproof member (270) may loosely contact or be spaced apart from the lower surface of the outer side (196a) of the housing (195).

[0143] Referring to FIG. 16, the haptic feedback button module (200) may include a first spacer (291) and a second spacer (292) for firmly pressing the waterproof member (270) against the lower surface of the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195).

[0144] Referring to FIG. 17, the first and second spacers (291, 292) may be positioned between the first support plate (280) and the second support plate (250). The first spacer (291) may be positioned adjacent to the first force sensor (231). In this case, the first spacer (291) may be positioned at a position that does not overlap with the first hole (281 in FIG. 5) of the first support plate (280) so as not to interfere with the movement of the first protrusion (213a) toward the first force sensor (231). The second spacer (292) may be positioned adjacent to the second force sensor (232). The second spacer (292) may be positioned at a position that does not overlap with the second hole (282 in FIG. 5) of the first support plate (280) so as not to interfere with the movement of the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) toward the second force sensor (232).

[0145] The thickness of the first and second spacers (291, 292) may be thicker than that of the second support plate (250). For example, the thickness of the first and second spacers (291, 292) may be greater than that of the first and second force sensors (231, 232) or greater than that of the vibration actuator (260).

[0146] The first and second spacers (291, 292) are inserted between the first support plate (280) and the second support plate (250) to press the waterproof member (270) against the lower surface of the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195), thereby improving the waterproof performance of the waterproof member (270).

[0147] According to one embodiment, a haptic feedback button module (200) can vibrate a button (210) immediately in response to a user's button pressing action, thereby allowing the user to experience vivid and intuitive haptic feedback. Hereinafter, the operation of the haptic feedback button module (200) according to one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0148] The haptic feedback button module (200) can adjust the volume output from the sound module (not shown) included in the smart phone (191-1). However, the haptic feedback button module (200) is not limited to the function of performing volume adjustment, and can perform various functions such as turning the power on and off, selecting and executing an app displayed on the display (140 of FIG. 2), swiping, and / or half-shutter function.

[0149] FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating a haptic feedback operation of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 18, when the button (210) is pressed by the user's finger (300), the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) presses the first force sensor (231). In this case, the waterproof member (270) and the first protective member (241) are pressed toward the first force sensor (231) by the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210).

[0151] The first force sensor (231) converts the pressure applied by the button (210) into an electrical signal corresponding to the pressure. Here, the electrical signal may be referred to as input data.

[0152] The MCU (131) can identify input information based on input data acquired (or detected) by the first force sensor (231). The MCU (131) can generate a vibration pattern based on the input information. The MCU (131) can control the haptic driver IC (133) to supply power to the vibration actuator (260) based on the vibration pattern. The vibration actuator (260) can vibrate according to the power pattern supplied from the haptic driver IC (133).

[0153] The instructions stored in the memory (120) may include an instruction for generating a vibration pattern based on input data acquired (or detected) by the first force sensor (231), and an instruction for providing a power pattern corresponding to the vibration pattern to the vibration actuator (260).

[0154] The vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) is transmitted to the third protrusion (214) of the button (210). The third protrusion (214) of the button (210) is a path for transmitting the vibration to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) that the user's finger (300) touches. The vibration of the button (210) can be transmitted to the user's finger (300) that is touching the pressing portion (211) of the button (210). In this way, the haptic feedback button module (200) can provide immediate haptic feedback to the user by vibrating the button (210) within an extremely short time (e.g., several to several tens of ms) after the user presses the button (210). For example, the path of vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) may sequentially lead to the first support plate (280), the waterproof member (270), the third protrusion (214) of the button (210), and the pressing portion (211) of the button (210).

[0155] The pressing actions of the button by the user may have various patterns. For example, the pressing actions may include pressing once for a set period of time, pressing twice or more for a set period of time, pressing twice or more for a second period of time that is shorter than a first period of time, pressing twice or more for a third period of time that is longer than the first period of time, pressing twice or more with different pressures for a set period of time, pressing in a half-shutter motion for a set period of time, and swiping (an action of pressing the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) while moving along the length of the button (210). For example, when the button (210) is pressed once for a set period of time, the sound volume can be increased or decreased by a set unit. When the button (210) is pressed twice or more for a set period of time (e.g., double-clicking twice in one second), the sound volume can be changed to mute. When the button (210) is pressed twice or more for a second time that is shorter than the first time, an emergency call can be made to a designated phone number (e.g., emergency numbers 112 or 119). When the button (210) is pressed twice or more for a third time that is longer than the first time, the display screen can be turned on or off. When the button (210) is pressed twice or more with different pressures for a designated time, a designated application can be launched. In this case, for example, when the button (210) is pressed with a pressure pattern of strong and weak, a map application can be launched, and when the button (210) is pressed with a pressure of weak, weak, and strong, a phone application can be launched. When the button (210) is pressed with a half-shutter motion for a designated time in camera shooting mode, the subject can be focused on. When the button (210) is swiped along the length of the button (210), the screen can be scrolled in the direction of the swiping.While haptic feedback is performed by the haptic feedback button module (200), the processor (110) can control to increase the sound output of the audio output module included in the smartphone (191-1 of FIG. 2) based on input data detected by the first force sensor (231) received from the MCU (131). The processor (110) can control to decrease the sound output of the audio output module of the smartphone (191-1 of FIG. 2) based on input data detected by the second force sensor (232) received from the second MCU (131).

[0156] FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration for performing a haptic feedback operation according to one embodiment.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 19, the haptic feedback operation may be controlled by a processor (110) (e.g., an application processor (AP)). For example, the MCU (131) may transmit input data detected by the first force sensor (231) and / or the second force sensor (232) to the processor (110).

[0158] The processor (110) can identify input information based on the input data transmitted from the MCU (131). The processor (110) can generate a power pattern based on the input information. The processor (110) can transmit the power pattern to the haptic driver IC (133) through the MCU (131). The haptic driver IC (133) can transmit an electric signal corresponding to the power pattern to the vibration actuator (260). The vibration actuator (260) can vibrate in a pattern corresponding to the electric signal.

[0159] The processor (110) can control not only the haptic driver IC (133), but also increase or decrease the sound output of the audio output module included in the smartphone (191-1 of FIG. 2) based on input data detected by the first force sensor (231) and / or the second force sensor (232).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the smartphone (191-1 of FIG. 2) may be electrically connected to a first force sensor (231) and a second force sensor (232) to process haptic feedback corresponding to a pressing motion input through a button (210 of FIG. 2) in a low-power standby state.

[0161] The PMIC (180) can acquire input data detected by the first force sensor (231) and / or the second force sensor (232). The MCU (131) can identify input information based on the input data received from the PMIC (180), generate a vibration pattern based on the input information, and control the haptic driver IC (133) to supply power to the vibration actuator (260) based on the vibration pattern.

[0162] FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration for performing a haptic feedback operation according to one embodiment.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the processor (110) can control the haptic feedback button module (200) without going through the MCU (131 of FIG. 19).

[0164] Referring to FIG. 20, the processor (110) can obtain input data detected by the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232). The processor (110) can generate a vibration pattern based on the input data, control the haptic driver IC (133) to supply power to the vibration actuator (260) based on the vibration pattern, and control the audio output module included in the smartphone (191-1 of FIG. 2) to increase or decrease the output of the sound.

[0165] According to one embodiment, the smartphone (191-1 of FIG. 2) may be electrically connected to a first force sensor (231) and a second force sensor (232) to process haptic feedback corresponding to a pressing motion input through a button (210 of FIG. 2) in a low-power standby state.

[0166] The PMIC (180) can acquire input data detected by the first force sensor (231) and / or the second force sensor (232). The processor (110) can identify input information based on the input data received from the PMIC (180), generate a vibration pattern based on the input information, and control the haptic driver IC (133) to supply power to the vibration actuator (260) based on the vibration pattern.

[0167] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing the operation of the first force sensor and the second force sensor according to the method of pressing the button of the haptic feedback button module (200) according to one embodiment.

[0168] Depending on how the button (210) is pressed by the user's finger (300) at the first position P1 in the entire upper surface area of ​​the pressing portion (211) of the button (210), either one or both of the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) can obtain the user's pressing motion information. For example, if an area corresponding to the first force sensor (231) or adjacent to the first force sensor (231) in the entire upper surface area of ​​the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) is pressed, the pressing motion information can be obtained through the first force sensor (231). If an area corresponding to the second force sensor (232) or adjacent to the second force sensor (232) in the entire upper surface area of ​​the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) is pressed, the pressing motion information can be obtained through the second force sensor (232). When the area located between the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) in the entire upper surface area of ​​the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) is pressed, pressing motion information can be obtained through the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232).

[0169] Referring to FIG. 21, the haptic feedback button module (200) can obtain a pressing motion for the entire upper surface area of ​​the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) from the second position (P2) to the fourth position (P4).

[0170] The processor (110) or MCU (131) can track the position (e.g., coordinates in the entire upper surface area of ​​the pressing portion (211)) and movement of the user's finger (300) through the pressure or charge input to the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) by the pressing motion of the button (210). Accordingly, the processor (110) or MCU (131) can obtain the pressing motion (one click, two or more consecutive clicks, one short press, one long press, two or more presses with different pressures, swipe, etc.) of the button being pressed through the haptic feedback button module (200).

[0171] For example, a user may swipe the button (210) with a predetermined pressure from a second position (P2) to a fourth position (P4) without lifting the finger (300) from the upper surface of the pressing portion (211) of the button (210). In this case, the pressure input to the first force sensor (231) may be detected as a first pressure value when the finger (300) is at the second position (P2), a second pressure value smaller than the first pressure value when the finger (300) is at the third position (P3), and a third pressure value smaller than the second pressure value when the finger (400) is at the fourth position (P4). At this time, the pressure input to the second force sensor (232) may be detected as a fourth pressure value when the finger (300) is at the second position (P2), as a fifth pressure value greater than the fourth pressure value when the finger (300) is at the third position (P3), and as a sixth pressure value greater than the fifth pressure value when the finger (400) is at the fourth position (P4). Here, the first pressure value may be substantially the same as or similar to the sixth pressure value, the second pressure value may be substantially the same as or similar to the fifth pressure value, and the third pressure value may be substantially the same as or similar to the fourth pressure value.

[0172] In this way, when a user swipes from a second position (P2) to a fourth position (P4), the pressure detected by the first force sensor (231) and the pressure detected by the second force sensor (232) may be inversely proportional. The processor (110) or the MCU (131) may determine that the user's pressing action is a swipe based on the pressure values ​​input to the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232).

[0173] The pressure value input to the first force sensor (231) and / or the second force sensor (232) may vary depending on the degree to which the button (210) of the haptic feedback button module (200) is pressed (the magnitude of the pressure). For example, when the button (210) is pressed hard, the pressure value input to the first force sensor (231) and / or the second force sensor (232) increases, and conversely, when the button (210) is pressed lightly, the pressure value input to the first force sensor (231) and / or the second force sensor (232) decreases. Various pressing actions may be defined according to these pressure values. Instructions corresponding to various pressing actions may be stored in the memory (120).

[0174] FIGS. 22 and 23 are drawings showing a vibration pattern of a button according to the length of a vibration actuator of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0175] Referring to FIG. 22, the length of the vibration actuator (260) of the haptic feedback button module (200-1) may be greater than the length of the third protrusion (214) of the button (210). The two ends of the vibration actuator (260) may be adjacent to the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210), respectively. The first force sensor (231) may be positioned coaxially with the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210), and the second force sensor (232) may be positioned coaxially with the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210).

[0176] The vibration actuator (260) may be positioned on the upper surface of the lower portion (196b) of the housing. In this case, a flexible printed circuit board (220) and a second support plate (250) are sequentially arranged on the lower portion of the vibration actuator (260). The second support plate (250) may be mounted on the upper surface of the lower portion (196b) of the housing. Accordingly, the vibration actuator (260) may be arranged such that its lower surface is approximately parallel to the upper surface of the lower portion (196b) of the housing.

[0177] The vibration actuator (260) vibrates according to a power pattern transmitted from the haptic driver IC (133 in FIG. 1). The vibration pattern displayed on the button (210) may be a pattern in which the left side (e.g., the first protrusion (213a) side), center, and right side (e.g., the second protrusion (213b) side) of the button (210) vibrate uniformly, as shown in FIG. 22. The vibration transmitted from the vibration actuator (260) to the lower part (196b) of the housing may be reflected toward the button (210). Accordingly, the vibration intensity from the vibration actuator (260) toward the button (210) may be greater than the vibration intensity toward the lower part (196b) of the housing.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 23, the length of the vibration actuator (260) of the haptic feedback button module (200-2) may be greater than the length of the third protrusion (214) of the button (210). In this case, both ends of the vibration actuator (260) may extend to the lower sides of the first protrusion (213a) and the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210), respectively. Accordingly, the first, second, and third protrusions (213a, 213b, 214) of the button (210) may be stacked on the vibration actuator (260).

[0179] The vibration actuator (260) vibrates according to a power pattern transmitted from a haptic driver IC (133 in FIG. 1). The vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) can be transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) along the first, second, and third protrusions (213a, 213b, 214) of the button (210). The vibration appearing on the button (210) can be a pattern that vibrates uniformly over the entire button (210), as shown in FIG. 23.

[0180] A first force sensor (231) and a second force sensor (232) may be arranged on the lower side of the first support plate (280). The first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) presses the first support plate (280) when the button (210) is pressed. The first force sensor (231) is pressed by the pressed first support plate (280) and can detect the pressure applied to the button (210). The second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) presses the first support plate (280) when the button (210) is pressed. The second force sensor (232) is pressed by the pressed first support plate (280) and can detect the pressure applied to the button (210).

[0181] FIGS. 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 are drawings showing vibration patterns of a button when a haptic feedback button module includes a single supporter, according to one embodiment.

[0182] Referring to FIG. 24, the haptic feedback button module (200-3) may include one supporter (410) disposed on the upper surface of the lower side (196b) of the housing. The supporter (410) may support the lower surface of the second support plate (250). The second support plate (250) has an area not supported by the supporter (410) spaced apart from the upper surface of the lower side (196b) of the housing by a constant distance (e.g., a distance corresponding to the thickness of the supporter (410)). The supporter (410) may be disposed at a position corresponding approximately to the center of the vibration actuator (260). In this case, the length of the supporter (410) may be smaller than the length of the vibration actuator (260).

[0183] The supporter (410) may be made of a material having the same or similar rigidity as the housing. For example, the supporter (410) may be made of a metal material or synthetic resin (e.g., engineering plastic).

[0184] Referring to Fig. 25, when the center (CP) of the vibration actuator (260) is supported by the supporter (410), both sides of the vibration actuator (260) that are not supported by the supporter (410) vibrate with a greater vibration amount than the center (CP) of the vibration actuator (260). The haptic feedback button module (200-3) can implement a different vibration pattern by applying the supporter (410) than the haptic feedback button modules (200, 200-1, 200-2) that do not apply the supporter (410).

[0185] Referring to FIG. 26, the vibration actuator (260) vibrates according to a power pattern transmitted from the haptic driver IC (133 in FIG. 1). The vibration generated at the center of the vibration actuator (260) is reflected by the supporter (410) and toward the button (210), and thus may be greater than the vibration intensity generated at both sides of the vibration actuator (260). The vibration pattern indicated on the button (210) may be a pattern in which the center of the button (210) vibrates more than the left and right sides of the button (210).

[0186] In this way, when the supporter (410) supports the center of the vibration actuator (260), it is possible to induce a greater vibration to appear in the center of the vibration actuator (260) than on both sides of the vibration actuator (260). This configuration can be applied to maintain the vibration intensity applied to the entire button (210) uniformly when the vibration intensity in the center of the button (210) is weak and the user does not feel the vibration, or the vibration intensity at both ends of the vibration actuator (260) is too strong and the user feels discomfort, depending on the mechanical design structure of the haptic feedback button module (200-4).

[0187] Referring to FIG. 27, the length of the supporter (411) may be substantially the same as the length of the vibration actuator (260). The supporter (411) may be arranged to correspond to the vibration actuator (260).

[0188] The vibration actuator (260) vibrates according to a power pattern transmitted from a haptic driver IC (133 in FIG. 1). In this case, the vibration generated at the center of the vibration actuator (260) can be reflected by the supporter (411) and transmitted approximately uniformly to the entire button (210) except for the area corresponding to the two most extreme ends of the button (210). The vibration pattern appearing on the button (210) may be a pattern in which the center, left, and right sides of the button (210) vibrate with a substantially uniform vibration intensity and the two most extreme ends of the button (210) vibrate with a somewhat smaller vibration intensity.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 28, the length of the supporter (412) may be greater than the length of the vibration actuator (260). In this case, the supporter (411) may be placed at a position that supports the vibration actuator (260), the first force sensor (231), and the second force sensor (232).

[0190] The vibration actuator (260) vibrates according to a power pattern transmitted from the haptic driver IC (133 in FIG. 1). In this case, the vibration pattern appearing on the button (210) may be a pattern that vibrates uniformly over the entire area of ​​the button (210) as the vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) is transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) along the first, second, and third protrusions (213a, 213b, 214) of the button (210). This vibration pattern can allow the user to feel a soft vibration.

[0191] FIG. 29 is a drawing showing an example of a supporter of a haptic feedback button module having a fixing protrusion according to one embodiment. FIG. 30 is a drawing showing an example of a supporter being inserted into a receiving space of a housing according to one embodiment.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 29, a fixing protrusion (413a) may be provided on the lower surface of the supporter (413) so that the supporter (413) can be stably fixed to the lower portion (196b) of the housing. A fixing groove (196e) may be provided on the upper surface of the lower portion (196b) of the housing so that the fixing protrusion (413a) of the supporter (413) may be inserted into the lower portion (196b) of the housing.

[0193] Referring to FIG. 30, the supporter (413) can stably fix the components that form the haptic feedback button module (200-7) by pushing the components arranged in the receiving space (196d) of the housing (195) toward the button (210).

[0194] The fixing protrusion (413a) of the supporter (413) can facilitate assembly by serving as a guide when the supporter (413) is inserted into the receiving space (196d) of the housing (195). The fixing protrusion (413a) of the supporter (413) can be positioned approximately at the center of the vibration actuator (260). In this case, the thickness of the center of the supporter (413) is greater than the thicknesses of both sides of the supporter (413). Accordingly, the vibration generated at the center of the vibration actuator (260) can be reflected toward the button (210) by the fixing protrusion (413a) of the supporter (413). In this way, the fixing protrusion (413a) of the supporter (413) can influence the vibration pattern appearing on the button (210) to change. The supporter (413) can tune the vibration of the vibration actuator (260) by changing the material (e.g., metal material, synthetic resin).

[0195] FIGS. 31, 32, 33 and 34 are drawings showing vibration patterns of a button when a haptic feedback button module includes a plurality of supporters, according to one embodiment.

[0196] Referring to FIG. 31, the haptic feedback button module (200-8) may include a first supporter (421) and a second supporter (422) arranged on the upper surface of the lower side (196b) of the housing. The first supporter (421) and the second supporter (422) may support both sides of the lower surface of the second support plate (250) at a distance therefrom. The second support plate (250) has an area not supported by the first and second supporters (421, 422) spaced apart from the upper surface of the lower side (196b) of the housing by a constant distance (e.g., a distance corresponding to the thickness of the first and second supporters (421, 422)).

[0197] The first supporter (421) may be positioned approximately corresponding to the left end of the vibration actuator (260). In this case, the first supporter (421) may be positioned below the first force sensor (231) that is positioned coaxially with the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210). The second supporter (422) may be positioned approximately corresponding to the right end of the vibration actuator (260). In this case, the second supporter (422) may be positioned below the second force sensor (232) that is positioned coaxially with the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210).

[0198] Referring to FIG. 32, when both ends of the vibration actuator (260) are supported by the first and second supporters (421, 422), respectively, the center of the vibration actuator (260) that is not supported by the first and second supporters (421, 422) vibrates with a greater vibration amount than both ends of the vibration actuator (260). Accordingly, the haptic feedback button module (200-8) can implement a different vibration pattern from the haptic feedback button module (200-3 of FIG. 22) that applies one supporter (410 of FIG. 22).

[0199] Referring to FIG. 33, the vibration actuator (260) vibrates according to a power pattern transmitted from the haptic driver IC (133 in FIG. 1). The vibration generated at both ends of the vibration actuator (260) is reflected to both sides of the button (210) by the first and second supporters (421, 422), and thus may be greater than the vibration intensity generated at the center of the vibration actuator (260). The vibration pattern displayed on the button (210) may be a pattern in which both sides of the button (210) vibrate more strongly than the center of the button (210). In this case, the haptic feedback button module (200-8) may implement a vibration pattern in which strong vibration is induced to both ends of the button (210) and relatively weak and soft vibration is induced to the center of the button (210).

[0200] Referring to FIG. 34, the haptic feedback button module (200-8) may include a first supporter (421), a second supporter (422), and a third supporter (423). The haptic feedback button module (200-8) is configured largely similarly to the haptic feedback button module (200-7) illustrated in FIG. 33, except that it further includes a third supporter (423). The third supporter (423) may support both sides of the lower surface of the second support plate (250). The third supporter (423) may be positioned to correspond to the center of the vibration actuator (260).

[0201] The vibration actuator (260) vibrates according to a power pattern transmitted from the haptic driver IC (133 in FIG. 1). The vibration generated at both ends of the vibration actuator (260) may be reflected to both sides of the button (210) by the first and second supporters (421, 422) and may be reflected by the third supporter (423) and then reflected to the center of the button (210). The vibration pattern displayed on the button (210) may be a pattern in which the vibration intensity displayed at the center of the button (210) is somewhat greater than the vibration intensity displayed at both sides of the button (210). In this case, the haptic feedback button module (200-9) may spray vibration to the center and both ends of the button (210), respectively, to implement a smooth vibration for the entire area of ​​the button (210).

[0202] FIG. 35 is a drawing showing an example in which a plurality of holes are provided in a supporter of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment. FIG. 36 is a drawing showing a state in which a vibration actuator is mounted in a supporter of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 35, the haptic feedback button module (200-10) may include one supporter (430). The supporter (430) provided with a first hole (431) and a second hole (432) may have a length substantially equal to the length of the supporter (413) illustrated in FIG. 30. Accordingly, the supporter (430) may support approximately the entire area of ​​the second support plate (250 of FIG. 30).

[0204] Referring to FIG. 36, the supporter (430) may have a vibration actuator (260) positioned above the supporter (430). In this case, the first hole (431) and the second hole (432) of the supporter (430) may correspond to both sides of the vibration actuator (260), and the center (433) of the supporter (430) located between the first hole (431) and the second hole (432) of the supporter (430) may correspond to the center of the vibration actuator (260).

[0205] The vibration actuator (260) vibrates according to a power pattern transmitted from a haptic driver IC (133 in FIG. 1). In this case, the center (433) of the supporter (430) reflects the vibration generated at the center of the vibration actuator (60) toward the button (210 in FIG. 30). Since the vibration generated at both sides of the vibration actuator (260) is not interfered by the supporter (430), a soft vibration with a lower vibration intensity compared to the center of the supporter (430) can be transmitted toward the button (210 in FIG. 30).

[0206] According to one embodiment, a haptic feedback button module may have different vibration patterns implemented on the button depending on the shape of the button (e.g., the shape of the third protrusion of the button). Hereinafter, vibration patterns according to various shapes of the button will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0207] FIGS. 37, 38, 39, 40, 41 and 42 are drawings showing vibration patterns of buttons according to the shape of the buttons of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0208] Referring to Fig. 37, the button (210) may be provided with a first protrusion (213a) and a second protrusion (213b) on the left and right sides of the lower surface of the pressing portion (211), and a third protrusion (214) may be provided at the center of the lower surface of the pressing portion (211). The third protrusion (214) of the button (210) may have a first extension portion (214a) and a second extension portion (214b) protruding to the left and right sides of the lower surface, respectively.

[0209] The vibration actuator (260) may be positioned below the third protrusion (214) of the button (210). In this case, the first extension portion (214a) and the second extension portion (214b) may be positioned in contact with or adjacent to the upper surface of the vibration actuator (260).

[0210] The vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) can be transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) along the first extension portion (214a) and the second extension portion (214b) of the third protrusion (214) of the button (210). When the vibration actuator (260) vibrates, the vibration pattern of the button (210) can be a pattern in which the vibration intensity on the left and right sides of the button (210) is greater than the vibration intensity that appears at the center and both ends of the button (210).

[0211] Referring to Fig. 38, the button (210-1) is largely similar in shape to the button (210) illustrated in Fig. 37, except that a through hole (241c-1) is provided in the third protrusion (214-1). The third protrusion (214-1) of the button (210-1) may have a first extension portion (214a-1) and a second extension portion (214b-1) protruding to the left and right sides, respectively.

[0212] The vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) can be transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210-1) along the first extension portion (214a-1) and the second extension portion (214b-1) of the third protrusion (214-1) of the button (210-1). In this case, the vibration transmitted to the center of the button (210-1) can be significantly attenuated by the through hole (214c-1). Accordingly, the button (210-1) can implement a vibration pattern different from that of the button (210) illustrated in FIG. 37.

[0213] Referring to Fig. 39, the lower surface (214a-2) of the third protrusion (214-2) of the button (210-2) may be configured to be flat. Accordingly, the lower surface (214a-2) of the third protrusion (214-2) can uniformly transmit the vibration transmitted from the vibration actuator (260) to the entire area of ​​the pressing portion (211) of the button (210-2).

[0214] Referring to Fig. 40, the third protrusion (214-3) of the button (210-3) is largely similar in shape to the button (210-2) illustrated in Fig. 39, with the difference that a through hole (241c-3) is provided in the third protrusion (214-3). The through hole (241c-3) of the third protrusion (214-3) may have a size larger than the size of the through hole (214c-1) provided in the third protrusion (214-1) of the button (210-1) illustrated in Fig. 38.

[0215] The vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) can be transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210-3) along the both sides (214a-3, 214b-3) and the lower surface (214d-3) of the third protrusion (214-3) of the button (210-3). In this case, the vibration transmitted to the center of the button (210-3) can be attenuated by the through hole (214c-3). The amount of vibration attenuated by the through hole (214c-3) can be greater than the amount of vibration attenuated by the through hole (214c-1) illustrated in FIG. 38. In this way, the vibration pattern appearing in the buttons (210-1, 210-3) can be tuned by adjusting the size of the through holes (214c-1, 214c-3).

[0216] Referring to Fig. 41, the third protrusion (214-4) of the button (210-4) may be configured to gradually narrow in width from the lower side toward the pressing portion (211). In this case, the vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) may be transmitted to the lower surface of the third protrusion (214-4) of the button (210-4) and may appear in a pattern that is concentrated in the central portion of the button (210-4).

[0217] Referring to Fig. 42, the third protrusion (214-5) of the button (210-5) may be configured to gradually widen in width from the lower side toward the pressing portion (211). In this case, the vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) may be transmitted to the lower side of the third protrusion (214-5) of the button (210-4) and a pattern may appear in which the vibration is transmitted from the center of the button (210-5) to both sides of the button (210-5).

[0218] The waterproof member (270 in FIG. 7) may be made of an elastic material so that it can be tightly sealed against the lower surface (196a-1 in FIG. 7) of the upper portion of the housing. In this case, the waterproof member (270) may absorb some of the vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260 in FIG. 7) due to the elasticity of the waterproof member. In this case, the amount of vibration transmitted to the button (210 in FIG. 7) may be somewhat reduced. Hereinafter, a structure capable of improving the reduction of the amount of vibration transmitted to the waterproof member will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0219] Fig. 43 is an exploded view illustrating an example of a vibration transmitting member being coupled to a waterproof member according to one embodiment. Fig. 44 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a vibration transmitting member being coupled to a waterproof member according to one embodiment.

[0220] Referring to FIGS. 43 and 44, a waterproof member (270-1) may have a plurality of vibration transmitting members (276a-1, 276b-1, 277a-1, 277b-1) arranged at positions where the third protrusion (214) of the button (210) comes into contact. The plurality of vibration transmitting members (276a-1, 276b-1, 277a-1, 277b-1) may be formed of a material having good rigidity for vibration transmission (e.g., metal material, engineering plastic).

[0221] The waterproof member (270-1) may be provided with first and second fixing grooves (274a-1, 274b-1) on the upper surface and third and fourth fixing grooves (275a-1, 275b-1) on the lower surface so that a plurality of vibration transmitting members (276a-1, 276b-1, 277a-1, 277b-1) may be fixed thereto. The first fixing groove (274a-1), the third fixing groove (275a-1), and the second fixing groove (274b-1) and the fourth fixing groove (275a-1) may be spaced apart from each other by a partition (278-1).

[0222] The vibration generated by the vibration actuator (260) can be transmitted to the first and second extensions (214a, 214b in FIG. 5) provided on the third protrusion (214) of the button (210) through the plurality of vibration transmitting members (276a-1, 276b-1, 277a-1, 277b-1) and then to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210). In this case, the amount of vibration transmitted to the button (210) by the plurality of vibration transmitting members (276a-1, 276b-1, 277a-1, 277b-1) can be increased, and the amount of vibration absorbed by the waterproof member (270-1) can be improved or minimized.

[0223] In Fig. 43, the unexplained symbol 271-1 is the first rib, 272-1 is the second rib, and 273-1 is the third rib.

[0224] Fig. 45 is an assembly drawing showing an example of a vibration transmitting member being coupled to a waterproof member according to one embodiment. Fig. 46 is a cross-sectional view of a waterproof member taken along line B-B' of Fig. 45 according to one embodiment.

[0225] Referring to Fig. 45, a waterproof member (270-2) may have one vibration transmitting member (276-2) placed at a position where the third protrusion (214) of the button (210) comes into contact. The vibration transmitting member (276-2) may be made of a material having good rigidity for vibration transmission (e.g., metal material, engineering plastic).

[0226] Referring to Fig. 46, the vibration transmitting member (276-2) may have a catch protrusion (277-2) formed along the side. The vibration transmitting member (276-2) may be coupled to the interior of the waterproofing member (270-2) through insert molding. In this case, the vibration transmitting member (276-2) may not be easily separated from the waterproofing member (270-2) through the catch protrusion (277-2).

[0227] The vibration generated by the vibration actuator (260) can be sequentially transmitted to the third protrusion (214) and the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) through the vibration transmitting member (276-2). In this case, the amount of vibration transmitted to the button (210) by the vibration transmitting member (276-2) can be increased, and the amount of vibration absorbed by the waterproof member (270-2) can be improved or minimized.

[0228] Referring to FIG. 45, the unexplained reference numeral 271-2 is the first rib, 272-2 is the second rib, and 273-2 is the third rib.

[0229] The haptic feedback button module (200) is not limited to having the first force sensor (231), the second force sensor (232), and the vibration actuator (260) arranged on the same surface of the flexible printed circuit board (220). Hereinafter, various arrangement structures of the first force sensor (231), the second force sensor (232), and the vibration actuator (260) will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0230] FIGS. 47 and 28 are drawings showing examples of stacking a vibration actuator and first and second force sensors of a haptic feedback button module according to one embodiment.

[0231] Referring to FIG. 47, the haptic feedback button module (200-11) may include a first force sensor (231) and a second force sensor (232) disposed on the upper surface of the flexible printed circuit board (220). In this case, the first force sensor (231) may be positioned coaxially with the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210), and the second force sensor (232) may be positioned coaxially with the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210). The length of the vibration actuator (260) may approximately correspond to the length of the button (210). The vibration actuator (260) may be positioned between the button (210) and the first and second force sensors (231, 232). In this case, one side of the lower surface of the vibration actuator (260) may be placed on the upper surface of the first force sensor (231), and the other side of the lower surface of the vibration actuator (260) may be placed on the upper surface of the second force sensor (232).

[0232] When the button (210) is pressed, the first and second protrusions (213a, 213b) of the button (210) can press the first and second force sensors (231, 232) through the vibration actuator (260). The vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) can be transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) through the first, second and third protrusions (213a, 213b, 214) of the button (210) that are in contact with the upper surface of the vibration actuator (260).

[0233] Referring to FIG. 48, the haptic feedback button module (200-12) is largely similar in configuration to the haptic feedback button module (200-12) illustrated in FIG. 47. The haptic feedback button module (200-12) may include a first vibration actuator (260a) and a second vibration actuator (260b). The first vibration actuator (260a) may be positioned between the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) and the first force sensor (231). The second vibration actuator (260b) may be positioned between the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210) and the second force sensor (232).

[0234] In this case, the button (210) can receive vibrations generated from the first vibration actuator (260a) and the second vibration actuator (260b) to the left and right sides of the button (210).

[0235] FIG. 49 is a drawing showing an example in which a vibration actuator and first and second force sensors of a haptic feedback button module are in contact with a first protrusion and a second protrusion of the button, according to one embodiment.

[0236] Referring to FIG. 49, the haptic feedback button module (200-13) may include a first force sensor (231), a second force sensor (232), a first vibration actuator (260a), and a second vibration actuator (260b) disposed on the upper surface of the flexible printed circuit board (220). In this case, the first force sensor (231) and the first vibration actuator (260a) may be positioned below the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210). The second force sensor (232) and the second vibration actuator (260b) may be positioned below the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210).

[0237] When the button (210) is pressed, the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) can press the first force sensor (231), and the second protrusion (213b) can press the second force sensor (232). The vibration generated from the first vibration actuator (260a) can be transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) through the first protrusion (213a). The vibration generated from the second vibration actuator (260b) can be transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) through the second protrusion (213b).

[0238] FIGS. 50 to 52 are drawings showing examples of a vibration actuator and first and second force sensors of a haptic feedback button module arranged on different surfaces of a flexible printed circuit board, according to one embodiment.

[0239] Referring to FIG. 50, a haptic feedback button module (200-14) may include a first force sensor (231), a second force sensor (232), and a vibration actuator (260) disposed on a flexible printed circuit board (220). The first force sensor (231) may be positioned coaxially with a first protrusion (213a) of the button (210), and the second force sensor (232) may be positioned coaxially with a second protrusion (213b) of the button (210). The first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) may be disposed on an upper surface of the flexible printed circuit board (220). The vibration actuator (260) may be disposed on a lower surface of the flexible printed circuit board (220). The vibration actuator (260) may have a length such that both ends are adjacent to the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232).

[0240] When the button (210) is pressed, the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) can press the first force sensor (231), and the second protrusion (213b) can directly press the second force sensor (232). The vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) can be transmitted in the first and second directions. The vibration transmission path in the first direction leads to the press portion (211) of the button (210) through the flexible printed circuit board (220), the first force sensor (231), and the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210). The vibration transmission path in the second direction leads to the press portion (211) of the button (210) through the flexible printed circuit board (220), the second force sensor (232), and the second protrusion (213b) of the button (210).

[0241] Referring to FIG. 51, the haptic feedback button module (200-15) is mostly identical in configuration to the haptic feedback button module (200-14) illustrated in FIG. 50, except that there are two vibration actuators (260a, 260b). The first vibration actuator (260a) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the first force sensor (231). For example, the center of the first vibration actuator (260a) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the center of the first force sensor (231). The second vibration actuator (260b) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the second force sensor (232). For example, the center of the second vibration actuator (260b) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the center of the second force sensor (232).

[0242] When the button (210) is pressed, the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) can press the first force sensor (231), and the second protrusion (213b) can directly press the second force sensor (232). The vibration generated from the first vibration actuator (260a) is transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) through the vibration transmission path in the first direction. The vibration generated from the second vibration actuator (260b) is transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) through the vibration transmission path in the second direction.

[0243] Referring to FIG. 52, the haptic feedback button module (200-15') is mostly identical in configuration to the haptic feedback button module (200-15) illustrated in FIG. 51, except that it has three vibration actuators (260a, 260b, 260c). The third vibration actuator (260c) may be arranged on the lower surface of the flexible printed circuit board (220) together with the first and second vibration actuators (260a, 260b). The third vibration actuator (260c) may be arranged between the first and second vibration actuators (260a, 260b). In this case, the gap between the first vibration actuator (260) and the third vibration actuator (260c) may be substantially the same as the gap between the second vibration actuator (260b) and the third vibration actuator (260c).

[0244] When the button (210) is pressed, the first protrusion (213a) of the button (210) can press the first force sensor (231), and the second protrusion (213b) can directly press the second force sensor (232). The vibration generated from the first vibration actuator (260a) is transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) through a vibration transmission path in the first direction. The vibration generated from the second vibration actuator (260b) is transmitted to the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) through a vibration transmission path in the second direction. The vibration generated from the third vibration actuator (260c) is transmitted to the first and second vibration actuators (260a, 260b) along the vibration transmission paths in the first and second directions, respectively. Accordingly, the pressing portion (211) of the button (210) can receive strong vibrations by the first, second and third vibration actuators (260a, 260b, 260c).

[0245] FIG. 53 is a diagram illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to an embodiment. FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to an embodiment. FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a haptic feedback button module according to an embodiment.

[0246] Referring to FIGS. 53 and 54, the haptic feedback button module (200-16) is largely similar in configuration to the haptic feedback button module (200) illustrated in FIG. 3, except that it has a plurality of buttons (210a, 210b). Accordingly, a first coupling hole (197a-2) and a second coupling hole (197a-3) may be provided on the upper portion (196a) of the housing (195) for coupling the first and second buttons (210a, 210b), respectively.

[0247] The vibration generated from the vibration actuator (260) is transmitted to the pressing portions (211a, 211b) of the first and second buttons (210a, 210b) through vibration transmission paths in the first and second directions, respectively. The vibration path in the first direction is transmitted to the pressing portion (211a) of the first button (210a) through a flexible printed circuit board (220), a first force sensor (231), and a protrusion (213a) of the first button (210a). The vibration transmission path in the second direction is transmitted to the pressing portion (211b) of the second button (210b) through a flexible printed circuit board (220), a second force sensor (232), and a protrusion (213b) of the second button (210b).

[0248] Referring to FIG. 55, the haptic feedback button module (200-16') is largely similar in configuration to the haptic feedback button module (200-16) illustrated in FIG. 53, with the difference that the first and second buttons (210a, 210b) are integrally formed by a connecting bar (210c).

[0249] FIG. 56 is a drawing showing a smartwatch as an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0250] FIGS. 57 and 58 are drawings illustrating a haptic feedback button module applied to a smart watch according to one embodiment.

[0251] Referring to FIGS. 56 and 57, the smartwatch (193) may include a housing (195), a display (140) that may be positioned on the front of the housing (195), and a haptic feedback button module (200-17) provided on one side of the housing (195).

[0252] The haptic feedback button module (200-17) may include a first button (210a) and a second button (210b) coupled to a first coupling hole (197a-2) and a second coupling hole (197a-3) provided in an outer portion (196a) of a housing (195), a flexible printed circuit board (220), a first force sensor (231), a second force sensor (232), a first vibration actuator (260a), and a second vibration actuator (260b).

[0253] A flexible printed circuit board (220) may have a first vibration actuator (260a) and a second vibration actuator (260b) spaced apart from each other on the upper surface. The first vibration actuator (260a) may be arranged coaxially with the first button (210a) and may be in contact with the lower end of the first button (210a). The second vibration actuator (260b) may be arranged coaxially with the second button (210b) and may be in contact with the lower end of the second button (210b).

[0254] The first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) may be spaced apart from each other on the rear surface of the flexible printed circuit board (220). The first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) may be supported on the inner side (196b) of the housing (195).

[0255] The remaining components of the haptic feedback button module (200-17) except for the first and second buttons (210a, 210b) can be located in the receiving space (196d) of the housing (195).

[0256] The first force sensor (231) can be arranged coaxially with the first button (210a) and the first vibration actuator (260a) so as to detect the pressure applied to the first button (210a). The second force sensor (232) can be arranged coaxially with the second button (210b) and the second vibration actuator (260b) so as to detect the pressure applied to the second button (210b).

[0257] When the first button (210a) is pressed, the first force sensor (231) can obtain the pressing motion of the first button (210a). The first vibration actuator (260a) can transmit a vibration pattern based on the pressing motion of the first button (210a) to the first button (210a) within the shortest time (e.g., several to several tens of ms). Similarly, when the second button (210b) is pressed, the second force sensor (232) can obtain the pressing motion of the second button (210b). The second vibration actuator (260b) can transmit a vibration pattern based on the pressing motion of the second button (210b) to the second button (201b) within the shortest time (e.g., several to several tens of ms).

[0258] Referring to FIG. 58, the haptic feedback button module (200-18) is largely similar in configuration to the haptic feedback button module (200-17) illustrated in FIG. 56, except that it comprises a single vibration actuator (260). The vibration actuator (260) can be brought into contact with the lower portion of the first button (210a) and the lower portion of the second button (210b). Accordingly, the first button (210a) and the second button (210b) can implement haptic feedback by vibration generated from the single vibration actuator (260).

[0259] FIG. 59 is a drawing illustrating augmented reality glasses as an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 60 is a drawing illustrating a haptic feedback button module applied to augmented reality glasses according to one embodiment.

[0260] Referring to FIGS. 59 and 60, the augmented reality glasses (194) may include a housing (195), a display (140) that may be positioned on the front of the housing (195), and a haptic feedback button module (200-19) provided on one side of the housing (195). The housing (195) may have the shape of a temple of glasses.

[0261] The haptic feedback button module (200-19) may include a first imprint portion (219a), a second imprint portion (219b), a flexible printed circuit board (220), a first force sensor (231), a second force sensor (232), a first vibration actuator (260a), and a second vibration actuator (260b).

[0262] The first imprinted portion (219a) and the second imprinted portion (219b) may be formed in a negative or positive manner on the surface of the outer portion (196a) of the housing (195) so that the user can recognize them. The housing (195) has rigidity for durability and may be made of a material that has elasticity so that the first imprinted portion (219a) and the second imprinted portion (219b) can be pressed by the user. Since the housing (195) is made of a material that has elasticity, the first imprinted portion (219a) and the second imprinted portion (219b) can vibrate by vibrations generated from the first and second vibration actuators (260a, 260b). The user can recognize haptic feedback from the first imprinted portion (219a) and the second imprinted portion (219b) through their fingers.

[0263] A flexible printed circuit board (220) may have a first vibration actuator (260a) and a second vibration actuator (260b) spaced apart from each other on the upper surface. The first vibration actuator (260a) may be arranged coaxially with the first imprinted portion (219a) and may be in contact with the lower end of the first imprinted portion (219a). The second vibration actuator (260b) may be arranged coaxially with the second imprinted portion (219b) and may be in contact with the lower end of the second imprinted portion (219b).

[0264] The first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) may be spaced apart from each other on the rear surface of the flexible printed circuit board (220). The first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) may be supported on the inner side (196b) of the housing (195).

[0265] The remaining components of the haptic feedback button module (200-19) excluding the first and second imprints (219a, 219b) can be located in the receiving space (196d) of the housing (195).

[0266] The first force sensor (231) can be arranged coaxially with the first imprinting portion (219a) and the first vibration actuator (260a) so as to detect the pressure pressing the first imprinting portion (219a). The second force sensor (232) can be arranged coaxially with the second imprinting portion (219b) and the second vibration actuator (260b) so as to detect the pressure pressing the second imprinting portion (219b).

[0267] When the first imprinting portion (219a) is pressed, the first force sensor (231) can obtain the pressing motion of the first imprinting portion (219a). The first vibration actuator (260a) can transmit a vibration pattern based on the pressing motion of the first imprinting portion (219a) to the first imprinting portion (219a) within the shortest time (e.g., several to several tens of ms). Similarly, when the second imprinting portion (219b) is pressed, the second force sensor (232) can obtain the pressing motion of the second imprinting portion (219b). The second vibration actuator (260b) can transmit a vibration pattern based on the pressing motion of the second imprinting portion (219b) to the second imprinting portion (219b) within the shortest time (e.g., several to several tens of ms).

[0268] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (100) may include a housing (195); a button (210) provided on a side of the housing; and a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (220) disposed under the button. The FPCB may include a first sensor (231) and a second sensor (232) mounted on a first surface of the FPCB. The first sensor may be configured to detect a first pressure input applied through a first press portion of the button and output a first signal corresponding to the first pressure input. The second sensor may be configured to detect a second pressure input applied through a second press portion of the button and output a second signal corresponding to the second pressure input. The FPCB may be electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor. The electronic device (100) may include: a vibration actuator (135) mounted on a first surface of the FPCB between the first sensor and the second sensor; a vibration driver IC (133) for driving the vibration actuator; a memory (120) including instructions; and at least one processor (110) including processing circuitry. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to identify a button input type received through the button based on information received through at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor, and cause the vibration actuator to generate a vibration pattern according to the button input type.

[0269] According to one embodiment, the button input type received through the button (210) may be any one of a single press for a set period of time, two or more consecutive presses for a set period of time, a press in a half-shutter motion for a set period of time, and a swipe.

[0270] According to one embodiment, the button input type received through the button (210) may be any one of: pressing once for a second time shorter than the first time, pressing twice or more consecutively for the second time, pressing once for a third time longer than the first time, pressing twice or more for the third time, and pressing twice or more with different pressures for a set time.

[0271] According to one embodiment, the button (210) may include a first protrusion (213a) provided on a first side of the lower surface of the button to correspond to the first pressing portion and positioned corresponding to the first sensor (231); and a second protrusion (213b) provided on a second side of the lower surface of the button to correspond to the second pressing portion and positioned corresponding to the second sensor (232).

[0272] According to one embodiment, the first sensor (231) may include a first force sensor (231). The second sensor (232) may include a second force sensor (232) spaced apart from the first force sensor.

[0273] According to one embodiment, the button (210) may include a third protrusion (214) disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion on the lower surface of the button and configured to transmit vibration generated from the vibration actuator to the upper surface of the button.

[0274] According to one embodiment, the first force sensor (231), the second force sensor (232), and the vibration actuator (260) may be arranged side by side on the first surface of the FPCB (220).

[0275] According to one embodiment, the vibration actuator may include a first vibration actuator (260a) adjacent to the first force sensor (231) and having at least a portion overlapped by the first protrusion (213a); and a second vibration actuator (260b) adjacent to the second force sensor (232) and having at least a portion overlapped by the second protrusion (213b).

[0276] According to one embodiment, the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232) may be disposed on a first surface of the FPCB (220). The vibration actuator (260) may be disposed on a second surface opposite the first surface of the FPCB (220).

[0277] According to one embodiment, the vibration actuator may include a first vibration actuator (260a) overlapped by the first force sensor (231); and a second vibration actuator (260b) overlapped by the second force sensor (232).

[0278] According to one embodiment, the vibration actuator may include a first vibration actuator (260a) overlapping the first force sensor (231); and a second vibration actuator (260b) overlapping the second force sensor (232).

[0279] According to one embodiment, the vibration actuator may include a third vibration actuator (260c) disposed between the first vibration actuator (260a) and the second vibration actuator (260b).

[0280] According to one embodiment, the vibration actuator (260) may overlap the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232).

[0281] According to one embodiment, the vibration actuator may include a piezo actuator.

[0282] According to one embodiment, the third protrusion may include a first extension portion (241a) and a second extension portion (241b) protruding from each end of the third protrusion to transmit vibration generated from the vibration actuator to both ends of the button.

[0283] According to one embodiment, the third protrusion may have a cavity (241c-1) formed between the first extension portion (241a-1) and the second extension portion (241b-1).

[0284] According to one embodiment, the third protrusion may have a lower surface corresponding to the vibration actuator and a slot (241c-3) formed along the longitudinal direction of the third protrusion.

[0285] According to one embodiment, the third protrusion (214-4) may be formed so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the third protrusion gradually decreases as it goes toward the upper surface of the button in the vibration actuator.

[0286] According to one embodiment, the third protrusion (214-5) may be formed so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the third protrusion gradually increases toward the upper surface of the button in the vibration actuator.

[0287] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a supporter (410, 411, 412, 413) disposed between the inner side (196b) of the housing and the flexible printed circuit board (220) and directing vibration generated from the vibration actuator toward the button side.

[0288] According to one embodiment, the supporter (410) may be arranged to support the center portion of the lower surface of the vibration actuator.

[0289] According to one embodiment, the supporter (412) may be extended so that both ends of the supporter support the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232), respectively.

[0290] According to one embodiment, the supporter (411) may have a size corresponding to the size of the vibration actuator (260).

[0291] According to one embodiment, the supporter may include a first supporter (421) that supports a first end of the vibration actuator and the first force sensor together; and a second supporter (422) that supports a second end of the vibration actuator and the second force sensor together.

[0292] According to one embodiment, the supporter may further include a third supporter (423) that supports the vibration actuator.

[0293] According to one embodiment, the supporter (413) may further include a fixing projection (413a) inserted into a fixing groove (196e) provided on the inner side of the housing.

[0294] According to one embodiment, the supporter (430) may be formed with a first hole (431) and a second hole (432) corresponding to each of the two ends of the vibration actuator.

[0295] According to one embodiment, the button may include a first button (210a) corresponding to the first force sensor; and a second button (210b) corresponding to the second force sensor and spaced apart from the first button.

[0296] According to one embodiment, the button may include a coupling member (215a, 215b) coupled to the button to be inserted into a coupling hole (197a) provided on the outer side of the housing and to restrict the button from being separated from the coupling hole of the housing.

[0297] According to one embodiment, the coupling member (215a, 215b) may include a first hook (215a-1) positioned adjacent to the first protrusion; and a second hook (215a-2) positioned adjacent to the second protrusion. Each of the first hook and the second hook may have both ends hooked around the coupling hole (197a) of the housing.

[0298] According to one embodiment, the coupling member (215") may include an elastic member (e.g., a plate spring) that elastically connects the button to the housing so that the button can move inward and outward of the housing.

[0299] According to one embodiment, the coupling member (215") is coupled to the third projection (214") of the pressing portion of the button, and both ends (215a", 215b") can be caught around the first through hole (197d-1", 197d-2") of the housing into which the third projection is inserted.

[0300] According to one embodiment, the coupling member (215") may include a first coil spring, both ends of which are fixed around the first protrusion and the coupling hole of the housing; and a second coil spring, both ends of which are fixed around the second protrusion and the coupling hole of the housing.

[0301] According to one embodiment, the coupling member may include a first snap ring coupled to the first protrusion (213a'''); and a second snap ring coupled to the second protrusion (213b'''). The first snap ring may be caught around a second through hole (197b''') of the housing (195''') into which the first protrusion is inserted. The second snap ring may be caught around a third through hole (197c''') of the housing (195''') into which the second protrusion is inserted.

[0302] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a waterproof member (270) disposed between the button, the first force sensor, the second force sensor, and the vibration actuator.

[0303] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion (213a), the second protrusion (213b), and the third protrusion (214) may be inserted into a first through hole (197a), a second through hole (197b), and a third through hole (197c) respectively disposed on the inner side of the housing (195). The waterproof member may include a first rib (271) that is in close contact with the inner side of the housing and surrounds the periphery of the first through hole; a second rib (272) that is in close contact with the inner side of the housing and surrounds the periphery of the second through hole; and a third rib (273) that is in close contact with the inner side of the housing and surrounds the periphery of the third through hole.

[0304] According to one embodiment, the waterproof member (270') may include a first seal ring (270a') coupled to the first protrusion and in contact with the inner surface of the first through hole; a second seal ring (270b') coupled to the second protrusion and in contact with the inner surface of the second through hole; and a third seal ring (270c') coupled to the third protrusion and in contact with the inner surface of the third through hole.

[0305] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a vibration transmitting member (276a-1, 276b-1, 277a-1, 277b-1) having a hardness higher than a hardness of the waterproof member and coupled to the waterproof member so as to come into contact with the third protrusion.

[0306] According to one embodiment, the vibration transmitting member may include a first vibration transmitting member (276a-1); and a second vibration transmitting member (277a-1) spaced apart from the first vibration transmitting member.

[0307] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a third vibration transmitting member (276b-1) disposed on a lower surface of the waterproof member corresponding to the first vibration transmitting member (276a-1); and a fourth vibration transmitting member (277b-1) disposed on a lower surface of the waterproof member corresponding to the second vibration transmitting member (277a-1). Each of the third vibration transmitting member (276b-1) and the fourth vibration transmitting member (277b-1) may contact the vibration actuator (260).

[0308] According to one embodiment, the vibration transmitting member may be configured to include a metal plate or a synthetic resin plate.

[0309] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a first protective member (241) disposed between the first protrusion and the first force sensor; and a second protective member (242) disposed between the second protrusion and the second force sensor.

[0310] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a first spacer (291) and a second spacer (292) adjacent to the first force sensor and the second force sensor, respectively, and inserted between the flexible printed circuit board and the waterproof member to press the waterproof member toward the outer side of the housing.

[0311] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a housing (195) including an outer portion having a coupling hole, an inner portion spaced apart from the outer portion, and a receiving space provided between the outer portion and the inner portion; a button (210) movably inserted into the coupling hole of the outer portion of the housing; and a haptic feedback button module (200) accommodated in the receiving space of the housing and transmitting vibration to the button when pressed by a pressing motion of the button.

[0312] According to one embodiment, the haptic feedback button module may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (220); a force sensor (231, 232) disposed on the printed circuit board and outputting a vibration pattern based on a pattern of pressing the button; and a vibration actuator (260) disposed on the printed circuit board and outputting a power pattern based on the vibration pattern of the force sensor.

[0313] According to one embodiment, the button may include a first protrusion protruding toward the haptic feedback button module; and a second protrusion (213b) spaced apart from the first protrusion (213a). The force sensor may include a first force sensor (231) arranged coaxially with the first protrusion so as to be pressed by the first protrusion; and a second force sensor (232) arranged coaxially with the second protrusion so as to be pressed by the second protrusion; and a third protrusion (214) protruding toward the haptic feedback button module between the first protrusion and the second protrusion. The vibration actuator (260) may be arranged to correspond to the third protrusion so as to transmit vibration to the third protrusion of the button.

[0314] According to one embodiment, the haptic feedback button module (200) may include a waterproof member (270) disposed between the button and the first force sensor, the second force sensor, and the vibration actuator to seal a coupling hole in the outer portion of the housing.

[0315] According to one embodiment, the haptic feedback button module (200) may include a first support plate (280) that supports a lower surface of the waterproof member; and a second support plate (250) that is positioned between the flexible printed circuit board and the supporter to support a lower surface of the flexible printed circuit board.

[0316] According to one embodiment, the haptic feedback button module (200) may include a first protective member (241) disposed between the first protrusion and the first force sensor; and a second protective member (242) disposed between the second protrusion and the second force sensor.

[0317] According to one embodiment, the haptic feedback button module (200) may include a first spacer (291) and a second spacer (292) adjacent to the first force sensor (231) and the second force sensor (232), respectively, and inserted between the flexible printed circuit board and the first support plate (280) to press the waterproof member (270) toward the outer side of the housing.

[0318] According to one embodiment, the FPCB (220) may be placed in the receiving space (196d) of the housing.

[0319] It will be appreciated that the various embodiments of the present disclosure, in accordance with the claims and detailed description of this specification, may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0320] Such software may be stored on a non-persistent computer-readable storage medium. The non-persistent computer-readable storage medium stores one or more computer programs (software modules), and the one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of the electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform the disclosed method.

[0321] Such software may be stored in a volatile or non-volatile form, such as, for example, a storage device such as ROM, or a memory form such as RAM, memory chips, devices or integrated circuits, or an optical or magnetically readable medium such as, for example, a CD, DVD, magnetic disk or magnetic tape, whether or not erasable and rewritable. It will be appreciated that the storage devices and storage media are various embodiments of non-transitory machine-readable storage suitable for storing a computer program or a computer program including instructions that, when executed, implement various embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a computer program comprising code for implementing an apparatus or method as claimed in any of the claims of the present disclosure, and a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium storing such a program.

[0322] Although the embodiments have been described with limited examples and drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations can be made based on the above teachings. For example, appropriate results can be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than described, and / or components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. are combined or combined in a different manner than described, or are replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents. Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents of the claims also fall within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

In electronic devices, housing; A button provided on the side of the above housing; A flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) disposed under the button, the FPCB including a first sensor and a second sensor mounted on a first surface of the FPCB, the first sensor configured to detect a first pressure input applied through a first press portion of the button and output a first signal corresponding to the first pressure input, the second sensor configured to detect a second pressure input applied through a second press portion of the button and output a second signal corresponding to the second pressure input, and the FPCB is electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor; A vibration actuator mounted on the first surface of the FPCB between the first sensor and the second sensor; A vibration driver IC for driving the above vibration actuator; memory containing instructions; and At least one processor comprising processing circuitry; The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Identifying the button input type received through the button based on information received through at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor, An electronic device that causes the vibration actuator to generate a vibration pattern according to the button input type. In the first paragraph, The button input type received through the above button is: An electronic device, wherein any one of a single press for a set period of time, two or more consecutive presses for a set period of time, a half-shutter press for a set period of time, and a swipe is performed. In the first paragraph, The above button is, A first protrusion provided on the first side of the lower surface of the button to correspond to the first pressing portion and positioned at a position corresponding to the first sensor; and An electronic device comprising a second protrusion provided on a second side of the lower surface of the button to correspond to the second pressing portion and positioned at a position corresponding to the second sensor. In the third paragraph, The above first sensor, Includes a first force sensor, The second sensor above, An electronic device comprising a second force sensor spaced apart from the first force sensor. In paragraph 4, The above button is, An electronic device further comprising a third protrusion disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion on the lower surface of the button and configured to transmit vibration generated from the vibration actuator to the upper surface of the button. In paragraph 4, An electronic device wherein the first force sensor, the second force sensor, and the vibration actuator are arranged side by side on the first surface of the FPCB. In paragraph 6, The above vibration actuator, a first vibration actuator adjacent to the first force sensor and at least partially overlapped by the first protrusion; and An electronic device comprising a second vibration actuator adjacent to the second force sensor and having at least a portion overlapped by the second protrusion. In paragraph 4, The first force sensor and the second force sensor are arranged on the first surface of the FPCB, An electronic device wherein the vibration actuator is disposed on a second side opposite to the first side of the FPCB. In paragraph 8, The above vibration actuator, a first vibration actuator overlapped by the first force sensor; and An electronic device comprising a second vibration actuator overlapped by the second force sensor. In paragraph 8, The above vibration actuator, a first vibration actuator overlapping the first force sensor; and An electronic device comprising a second vibration actuator overlapping the second force sensor. In paragraph 5, The third protrusion above is, An electronic device comprising a first extension portion and a second extension portion protruding from each end of the third protrusion so as to transmit vibration generated from the vibration actuator to each end of the button. In paragraph 5, An electronic device further comprising a supporter disposed between the inner side of the housing and the FPCB, the supporter inducing vibration generated from the vibration actuator toward the button side. In paragraph 5, The above button is, Inserted into the coupling hole provided on the outer side of the above housing, An electronic device further comprising a coupling member coupled to the button to limit separation of the button from the coupling hole of the housing. In paragraph 5, Further comprising a waterproof member disposed between the button, the first force sensor, the second force sensor, and the vibration actuator; The first protrusion, the second protrusion and the third protrusion are inserted into the first through hole, the second through hole and the third through hole respectively disposed on the outer side of the housing, The above waterproofing material is, A first rib that is in close contact with the outer side of the housing and surrounds the periphery of the first through hole; A second rib that is in close contact with the outer side of the housing and surrounds the periphery of the second through hole; An electronic device comprising a third rib that is in close contact with the outer surface of the housing and surrounds the periphery of the third through hole. In Article 14, An electronic device further comprising a first spacer and a second spacer, each adjacent to the first force sensor and the second force sensor, and inserted between the FPCB and the waterproof member to press the waterproof member toward the outer side of the housing.

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