Electronic device for providing touch deactivation function according to folding angle and control method therefor

Abstract

This electronic device (100), which comprises a first panel (110), a second panel (120), and a third panel (130), comprises: a memory (120-A) for storing instructions; a display (140) including a first area (140a) corresponding to the first panel (110), a second area (140b) corresponding to the second panel (120), and a third area (140c) corresponding to the third panel (130); and at least one processor (110-A) including processing circuitry. The instructions, when executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), cause the electronic device to: control the display (140) to display content in a first content area; acquire a first rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a second rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130) when a first user input of touching the first area (140a) and a second user input of touching the third area (140c) are received; and provide a touch deactivation UI on the basis of the first user input and the second user input when the first rotation angle is not smaller than a first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is not greater than a second threshold angle.

Description

Electronic device providing a touch disable function according to the folding angle and a control method thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device and a method for controlling the same, and more specifically, to an electronic device and a method for controlling the same that determine whether to provide a touch disable function according to a folding angle between a plurality of panels included in the electronic device.

[0002] A folding device can be a device in which the display folds or unfolds. By utilizing a structure that folds and unfolds the display, a folding device can provide a large screen or enhance user portability.

[0003] When the user folds the screen, it can be easily carried in a small size, and when unfolded, it can provide a wide screen.

[0004] The folding device can be implemented with multiple panels. Multiple panels are connected via hinges, and multiple panels can be rotated by a user's folding action. Depending on the folding action, the user can touch the display of the device.

[0005] Foldable devices may utilize flexible display materials such as foldable OLEDs and foldable glass, and hinge structures.

[0006] On folding devices, it can be difficult to distinguish whether a user's touch is a folding action or a touch action. Additionally, unintended malfunctions may occur depending on the folding action.

[0007] The present disclosure is designed to improve upon the aforementioned problem, and the purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an electronic device and a method for controlling the same that provide a touch disable UI for a user's touch area based on a folding angle.

[0008] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (100) comprising a first panel (110), a second panel (120), and a third panel (130) comprises a memory (120-A) for storing instructions, a display (140) comprising a first area (140a) corresponding to the first panel (110), a second area (140b) corresponding to the second panel (120), and a third area (140c) corresponding to the third panel (130), and at least one processor (110-A) comprising processing circuitry, wherein when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), the electronic device controls the display (140) to display content in the first content area, and a first user input touching the first area (140a) and a second user input touching the third area (140c) When received, a first rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a second rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130) are obtained, and if the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, a touch disable UI can be provided based on the first user input and the second user input.

[0009] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), if the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, the electronic device may identify a first target area (21) corresponding to the first user input among the first area (140a), identify a second target area (22) corresponding to the second user input among the third area (140c), and provide the touch disable UI to the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0010] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), the electronic device may identify a first size of a first target area (21) and a second size of a second target area (22), identify a second content area by changing the size of the first content area based on the first size and the second size, and control the display (140) to display the content in the second content area.

[0011] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), the electronic device may control the touch sensor so that a touch is not recognized with respect to the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0012] The above touch disable UI may be a UI indicating that touches on the first target area (21) and the second target area (22) are disabled.

[0013] The above touch disable UI may be a UI that displays a pattern set in the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0014] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), the electronic device may obtain a third rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130) after a threshold time has elapsed following the provision of the touch disable UI, and provide the touch disable UI based on the third rotation angle and the fourth rotation angle.

[0015] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), the electronic device may identify a third target area (23) of a third size by changing the first size of the first target area (21) based on the third rotation angle, identify a fourth target area (24) of a fourth size by changing the second size of the second target area (22) based on the fourth rotation angle, and provide the touch disable UI to the third target area (23) and the fourth target area (24).

[0016] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), the electronic device can identify the third content area by changing the size of the second content area based on the third size of the third target area (23) and the fourth size of the fourth target area (24), and display the content in the third content area.

[0017] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor (110-A), the electronic device may acquire a first pressure of the first user input and a second pressure of the second user input, and if the first pressure and the second pressure are greater than or equal to a threshold pressure, acquire the first rotation angle and the second rotation angle.

[0018] According to one embodiment, a control method for an electronic device (100) comprising a display (140) including a first area (140a) corresponding to a first panel (110), a second area (140b) corresponding to a second panel (120), and a third area (140c) corresponding to a third panel (130), comprises the steps of: displaying content in a first content area; when a first user input touching the first area (140a) and a second user input touching the third area (140c) are received, obtaining a first rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a second rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130); and if the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to a first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to a second threshold angle, providing a touch disable UI based on the first user input and the second user input.

[0019] If the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, the first target area (21) corresponding to the first user input among the first area (140a) is identified, and the second target area (22) corresponding to the second user input among the third area (140c) is identified, and the touch disable UI can be provided to the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0020] The above control method may include the steps of identifying a first size of a first target area (21) and a second size of a second target area (22), changing the size of the first content area based on the first size and the second size to identify the second content area, and displaying the content in the second content area.

[0021] The step of providing the above touch disable UI can control the touch sensor so that a touch is not recognized for the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0022] The above touch disable UI may be a UI indicating that touches on the first target area (21) and the second target area (22) are disabled.

[0023] The above touch disable UI may be a UI that displays a pattern set in the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0024] The above control method may include the steps of obtaining a third rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130) after a threshold time has elapsed following the provision of the touch disable UI, and providing the touch disable UI based on the third rotation angle and the fourth rotation angle.

[0025] The above control method may include the steps of identifying a third target area (23) of a third size by changing the first size of the first target area (21) based on the third rotation angle, identifying a fourth target area (24) of a fourth size by changing the second size of the second target area (22) based on the fourth rotation angle, and providing the touch disable UI to the third target area (23) and the fourth target area (24).

[0026] The above control method may include the step of identifying a third content area by changing the size of the second content area based on the third size of the third target area (23) and the fourth size of the fourth target area (24), and the step of displaying the content in the third content area.

[0027] The step of obtaining the first rotation angle and the second rotation angle involves obtaining the first pressure of the first user input and obtaining the second pressure of the second user input, and if the first pressure and the second pressure are greater than or equal to a threshold pressure, the first rotation angle and the second rotation angle can be obtained.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the specific configuration of the electronic device of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation to provide a touch-disabled UI according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of receiving a plurality of user inputs according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an operation to provide a touch-disabled UI by analyzing a rotation angle according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the operation of comparing critical angles in consideration of rotational speed according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a target area for providing a touch-disabled UI according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an operation to provide a touch disable UI to a plurality of target areas according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the operation of changing a plurality of target areas and content areas according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining an operation to identify a plurality of events based on a rotation angle according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 12 is a drawing for illustrating a full folding event according to one embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 13 is a drawing for illustrating a half folding event according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 14 is a drawing for illustrating a standing folding event according to one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining an embodiment in which only the first panel (110) rotates according to one embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the operation of changing the content structure in a full folding event according to one embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 17 is a drawing for illustrating the full folding state in a full folding event according to one embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 18 is a drawing for explaining the half-folding state in a half-folding event according to one embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining the self-standing state in a self-standing event according to one embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 20 is a drawing for illustrating a full folding event in an embodiment in which a touch-disabled UI is provided based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4) according to one embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 21 is a drawing for illustrating a half-folding event in an embodiment in which a touch-disabled UI is provided based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4) according to one embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 22 is a drawing for illustrating a self-standing event in an embodiment in which a touch-disabling UI is provided based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4) according to one embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating the operation of analyzing touch pressure for each user input according to one embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating the operation of determining a target area.

[0052] FIG. 25 is a drawing for explaining a method of controlling an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 26 illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device.

[0054] FIG. 27 illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device.

[0055] FIG. 28 illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device.

[0056] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0057] The terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure have been selected to be as widely used as possible, taking into account their functions within this disclosure; however, these terms may vary depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in specific cases, terms have been arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant explanatory section of this disclosure. Therefore, terms used in this disclosure should be defined not merely by their names, but based on their meanings and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0058] In this specification, expressions such as “have,” “may have,” “include,” or “may include” indicate the presence of such features (e.g., numerical values, functions, operations, or components such as parts) and do not exclude the presence of additional features.

[0059] The expression "at least one of A or / and B" should be understood as representing either "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0060] Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second" used in this specification may modify various components regardless of order and / or importance, and are used only to distinguish one component from another and do not limit said components.

[0061] Where it is stated that a component (e.g., Component 1) is "(operatively or communicatively) coupled with / to" or "connected to" another component (e.g., Component 2), it should be understood that the component may be directly connected to the other component or connected through the other component (e.g., Component 3).

[0062] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "comprising" or "consisting of" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0063] 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. Additionally, a plurality of "modules" or a plurality of "parts" may be integrated into at least one module and implemented by at least one processor, except for a "module" or "part" that needs to be implemented in specific hardware.

[0064] In this specification, the term "user" may refer to a person using an electronic device or a device using an electronic device (e.g., an artificial intelligence electronic device).

[0065] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0066] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0067] Referring to the embodiment (1) of FIG. 1, the electronic device (100) may include a body. The electronic device (100) may be a foldable device. The body of the electronic device (100) may include at least one of a first panel (110), a second panel (120), or a third panel (130).

[0068] The first panel (110) and the second panel (120) can be connected through the first hinge (150). The first panel (110) can be connected to the second panel (120) through the first hinge (150) and rotated.

[0069] The third panel (130) and the second panel (120) can be connected via the second hinge (160). The third panel (130) can be connected to the second panel (120) via the second hinge (160) and rotated.

[0070] Referring to the embodiment (2) of FIG. 1, the electronic device (100) may include a display (140). The display (140) may be placed on the upper body plate of the electronic device (100). The display (140) may be a foldable display or a bending display. The display (140) may be placed on a first panel (110), a second panel (120), and a third panel (130). The entire area of ​​the display (140) may include at least one of a first area (140a) corresponding to the first panel (110), a second area (140b) corresponding to the second panel (120), or a third area (140c) corresponding to the third panel (130).

[0071] For example, the first panel (110), the second panel (120), and the third panel (130) may be composed of a single panel. For example, the first panel (110), the second panel (120), and the third panel (130) may be included in a display (140).

[0072] Depending on user input, at least one of the first panel (110) or the third panel (130) may be rotated inward. The display (140) may be a touch display. When the surface of the display (140) is touched by a user, the electronic device (100) may identify the touch location and perform an action corresponding to the user input based on the touch location.

[0073] The first panel (110) may correspond to the first housing part (110) of FIG. 26.

[0074] The second panel (120) may correspond to the second housing part (120) of FIG. 26.

[0075] The third panel (130) may correspond to the third housing part (130) of FIG. 26.

[0076] The display (140) can correspond to the flexible display (140) of FIG. 26.

[0077] The first area (140a) may correspond to the first display area (140a) of FIG. 26.

[0078] The second area (140b) may correspond to the second display area (140b) of FIG. 26.

[0079] The third area (140c) may correspond to the third display area (140c) of FIG. 26.

[0080] The display (140) may include a touch sensor capable of sensing user input (touch).

[0081] When attempting to fold a multi-foldable device by hand, there are many instances where it is folded with two hands. Unintended touch interactions may occur on the screen held with two hands, potentially causing malfunctions. To resolve these malfunctions, it is necessary to quickly detect the user's folding intention. The electronic device (100) can prevent malfunctions by changing the screen layout range where touch interactions are possible.

[0082] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0083] The electronic device (100) may include at least one of a body, at least one processor (110-A), memory (120-A), or display (140).

[0084] The electronic device (100) may include a body comprising at least one of a first panel (110), a second panel (120), or a third panel (130).

[0085] The electronic device (100) may include a memory (120-A) for storing instructions.

[0086] The electronic device (100) may include a display (140) comprising a first area (140a) corresponding to a first panel (110), a second area (140b) corresponding to a second panel (120), and a third area (140c) corresponding to a third panel (130).

[0087] The electronic device (100) may include at least one processor (110-A) including processing circuitry.

[0088] At least one processor (110-A) can control the display (140) to display content in a first content area. At least one processor (110-A) can display content in a first content area, which is a pre-set area.

[0089] While content is displayed in the first content area, at least one processor (110-A) can acquire user input.

[0090] At least one processor (110-A) can receive touch input from a user through a touch sensor.

[0091] For example, a touch sensor may be included in the display (140).

[0092] For example, a touch sensor may be placed at the bottom of the display (140).

[0093] When user input touching the display (140) is received, at least one processor (110-A) can recognize a touch location corresponding to the user input through a touch sensor.

[0094] At least one processor (110-A) can receive a first user input touching a first area (140a) and a second user input touching a third area (140c) through a touch sensor.

[0095] When a first user input touching the first area (140a) and a second user input touching the third area (140c) are received, at least one processor (110-A) can obtain a first rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a second rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130).

[0096] At least one processor (110-A) can obtain a first rotation angle indicating the degree of rotation of the first panel (110). The electronic device (100) may include a first angle sensor that senses the degree of rotation of the first panel (110). At least one processor (110-A) can obtain the first rotation angle through the first angle sensor.

[0097] At least one processor (110-A) can obtain a second rotation angle indicating the degree of rotation of the third panel (130). The electronic device (100) may include a second angle sensor that senses the degree of rotation of the third panel (130). At least one processor (110-A) can obtain the second rotation angle through the second angle sensor.

[0098] At least one processor (110-A) can determine whether to provide a touch-disabled UI based on a first rotation angle and a second rotation angle.

[0099] At least one processor (110-A) can compare a first rotation angle with a first critical angle. At least one processor (110-A) can compare a second rotation angle with a second critical angle.

[0100] If the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, at least one processor (110-A) can provide a touch-disabled UI based on the first user input and the second user input.

[0101] For example, the first critical angle can be the same as the second critical angle.

[0102] For example, the first critical angle can be larger than the second critical angle.

[0103] For example, the first critical angle can be smaller than the second critical angle.

[0104] If the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, at least one processor (110-A) can disable touch for a portion of the entire area of ​​the display. At least one processor (110-A) can provide a touch disable UI for the area where touch is disabled. When the touch disable UI is provided, the user can easily recognize that touch is not enabled.

[0105] The touch disable operation may include one of the following: an operation of setting the touch area as a disabled area or an operation of ignoring the touch signal. When the touch area is disabled, the electronic device (100) may not recognize the user's touch signal.

[0106] As another example, the electronic device (100) may ignore the touch signal even if the user's touch signal is received. If the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, at least one processor (110-A) may ignore the touch signal input to a part of the entire area of ​​the display.

[0107] If the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, a first target area (21) (e.g., 21 in FIG. 9) corresponding to the first user input in the first area (140a) can be identified, and a second target area (22) (e.g., 22 in FIG. 9) corresponding to the second user input in the third area (140c) can be identified. At least one processor (110-A) can provide a touch-disabled UI to the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0108] At least one processor (110-A) can identify a first size of a first target area (21) and a second size of a second target area (22). At least one processor (110-A) can identify a second content area by changing the size of a first content area based on the first size and the second size. At least one processor (110-A) can control a display (140) to display content in the second content area.

[0109] The operation of providing a touch-disabled UI to the first target area (21) and the second target area (22) is described in FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0110] At least one processor (110-A) can control the touch sensor so that a touch is not recognized for the first target area (21) and the second target area (22). When the first target area (21) and the second target area (22) are identified, at least one processor (110-A) can control the touch sensor so that the touch recognition function for the first target area (21) and the second target area (22) is disabled.

[0111] The touch disable UI may be a UI indicating that touch is disabled in the first target area (21) and the second target area (22). At least one processor (110-A) may not display content in the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0112] The touch disable UI may be a UI that displays a preset pattern in the first target area (21) and the second target area (22). The preset pattern may include at least one of a preset pattern, a preset color, a preset image, or a preset icon.

[0113] After providing a touch-disabled UI and a threshold time has elapsed, at least one processor (110-A) can obtain a third rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130). At least one processor (110-A) can provide a touch-disabled UI based on the third rotation angle and the fourth rotation angle.

[0114] At least one processor (110-A) can identify a third target area (23) of a third size by changing the first size of the first target area (21) based on a third rotation angle.

[0115] At least one processor (110-A) can identify a fourth target area (24) of a fourth size by changing the second size of the second target area (22) based on a fourth rotation angle.

[0116] At least one processor (110-A) can provide a touch-disabled UI to the third target area (23) and the fourth target area (24).

[0117] At least one processor (110-A) can identify a third content area by changing the size of a second content area based on a third size of a third target area (23) and a fourth size of a fourth target area (24). At least one processor (110-A) can display content in the third content area.

[0118] An explanation related to this is described in Fig. 10.

[0119] At least one processor (110-A) can obtain a first pressure of a first user input and a second pressure of a second user input.

[0120] At least one processor (110-A) can compare a first pressure and a second pressure with a critical pressure. If the first pressure and the second pressure are greater than or equal to the critical pressure, at least one processor (110-A) can obtain a first rotation angle and a second rotation angle. The critical pressure can be changed according to user settings. An explanation related to this is described in FIG. 6.

[0121] At least one processor (110-A) can determine whether to provide a touch-disabled UI by additionally considering the rotation speed of the panel. An explanation related to this is provided in FIG. 7.

[0122] At least one processor (110-A) can obtain a first rotation angle and a second rotation angle before providing a touch-disabled UI. At least one processor (110-A) can obtain a third rotation angle and a fourth rotation angle after providing a touch-disabled UI. Based on the third rotation angle and the fourth rotation angle, at least one processor (110-A) can identify a folding event.

[0123] For example, the electronic device (100) may include an angle sensor. The angle sensor may include at least one of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or a Hall sensor. The electronic device (100) may obtain data indicating the tilt of the electronic device (100) through the angle sensor. The angle sensor may be described as a tilt sensor. At least one processor (110-A) may obtain tilt data (the tilt angle of the electronic device (100)) through the angle sensor. At least one processor (110-A) may identify a folding event based on the angle of the electronic device (100).

[0124] The electronic device (100) can identify a folding event based on a third rotation angle, a fourth rotation angle, and tilt data of the electronic device (100). The electronic device (100) can identify a folding event only when, in addition to the conditions of the third rotation angle and the fourth rotation angle, the tilt data of the electronic device (100) falls within a threshold range. The threshold range may be changed according to the user's settings.

[0125] A folding event may represent an event in which the first panel (110) or the third panel (130) rotates according to preset conditions by user operation. A folding event may include at least one of a full folding event, a half folding event, a standing folding event, or a reverse half folding event. An explanation related thereto is described in FIGS. 11 to 14.

[0126] A touch-disabling UI can be provided in different ways depending on the event. By analyzing user operations, an appropriate touch-disabling UI corresponding to the user interaction can be provided. When a touch-disabling UI is provided, malfunctions caused by user touch can be prevented in folding devices where folding behavior occurs frequently.

[0127] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the specific configuration of the electronic device (100) of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment.

[0128] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary electronic device (100) capable of performing the operations described in this document.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 3, the electronic device (100) may be one of various forms of electronic devices, such as a notebook (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 cellular phone (not shown), and other similar computing devices (not shown). The components, their relationships, and their functions illustrated in FIG. 3 are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the implementations described or claimed herein. The electronic device (100) may be referred to as a mobile device, a user device, a multifunction device, a portable device, or a server.

[0130] The electronic device (100) may include components comprising at least one processor (110-A) (hereinafter referred to as processor (110-A)), at least one memory (120-A) (hereinafter referred to as memory (120-A)), at least one display (140) (hereinafter referred to as display (140)), at least one image sensor (150-A) (hereinafter referred to as image sensor (150-A)), at least one communication circuit (160-A) (hereinafter referred to as communication circuit (160-A)), and / or at least one sensor (170-A) (hereinafter referred to as sensor (170-A)). The components are merely exemplary. For example, the electronic device (100) may include other components (e.g., power management integrated circuitry (PMIC), audio processing circuit, antenna, rechargeable battery, or input / output interface). For example, some components may be omitted from the electronic device (100). For example, some components can be integrated into a single component.

[0131] The processor (110-A) may be implemented as one or more IC (integrated circuit (or circuitry)) chips and may perform various data processing operations. The processor (110-A) may include at least one electrical circuit and may process instructions (or programs, data) stored in memory (120-A) individually or collectively in a distributed manner. The processor (110-A) may include a processor assembly comprising one or more processing circuits. The processor (110-A) may include any processing circuit that is operative to control the performance and operations of one or more components of the electronic device (100) (e.g., memory (120-A), display (140), image sensor (150-A), communication circuit (160-A), and / or sensor (170-A)). For example, the processor (110-A) (e.g., application processor (AP)) may be implemented as a system on chip (SoC) (e.g., a single chip or a chipset). For example, the processor (110-A) 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, the processor (110-A) may include one or more processing circuits. For example, the processor (110-A) may include one or more processing circuits configured to perform the various functions of the present disclosure individually and / or collectively. As an example without limitation, at least a portion of the processor (110-A) may be included in a first chip of the electronic device (100), and at least another portion of the processor (110-A) may be included in a second chip of the electronic device (100) different from the first chip of the electronic device (100).

[0132] For example, the processor (110-A) may include a central processing unit (111), a graphics processing unit (112), a neural processing unit (113), an image signal processor (114), a display controller (115), a memory controller (116), a storage controller (117), a communication processor (118), and / or a sensor interface (119). These components of the processor (110-A) are merely exemplary. For example, the processor (110-A) may include other components. For example, some components of the processor (110-A) may be omitted from the processor (110-A). For example, some components of the processor (110-A) may be included as separate components of the electronic device (100) outside of the processor (110-A). For example, some components of the processor (110-A) (e.g., memory controller (116)) may be included in other components (e.g., at least part of memory (120-A), 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-A)).

[0133] The processor (110-A) may cause other components of the electronic device (100) to perform various operations by executing instructions stored in memory (120-A). The CPU (111) (or central processing circuit) may be configured to control the components of the processor (110-A) based on the execution of instructions stored in memory (120-A) (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 AI (artificial intelligence) chip) may be configured to execute operations for an artificial intelligence model (e.g., convolution computation). An ISP (114) (or image signal processing circuit) may be configured to process a raw image acquired through an image sensor (150-A) into a format suitable for a component within the electronic device (100) or a component of the processor (110-A). A display controller (115) (or display control circuit, or DPU (display processing unit)) may be configured to process an image acquired from a CPU (111), GPU (112), ISP (114), or memory (120-A) (e.g., volatile memory (121)) into a format suitable for a display (140). A 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). A storage controller (117) (or storage control circuit) may be configured to control reading data from non-volatile memory (122) and writing data to non-volatile memory (122).The CP (118) (communication processing circuit) may be configured to process data obtained from a component of the processor (110-A) into a format suitable for transmitting to another electronic device via the communication circuit (160-A), or to process data obtained from another electronic device via the communication circuit (160-A) into a format suitable for processing by a component of the processor (110-A). For example, the communication circuit (160-A) may include one or more communication circuits. The sensor interface (119) (or sensing data processing circuit, sensor hub) may be configured to process data regarding the state of the electronic device (100) and / or the state around the electronic device (100), obtained via the sensor (170-A), into a format suitable for a component of the processor (110-A).

[0134] Memory (120-A) may include one or more storage media (or one or more storage devices). For example, memory (120-A) may include a memory assembly comprising one or more storage media. For example, the one or more storage media may include a hard drive, a flash memory, a permanent memory such as ROM (read-only memory) (e.g., non-volatile memory (122)), a semi-permanent memory such as RAM (random access memory) (e.g., volatile memory (121)), any other suitable type of storage (or storage assembly), or any combination thereof. Memory (120-A) may include a 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 an example not limited to, the cache memory may be included within the processor (110-A). The memory (120-A) may be fixedly embedded within the electronic device (100) or incorporated into one or more suitable types of components (e.g., a SIM (subscriber identity module) card and / or an SD (secure digital) card) that can be repeatedly inserted into and removed from the electronic device (100).

[0135] For example, memory (120-A) may store one or more software applications, such as operating system (or system) software applications, firmware software applications, driver software applications, plugin (e.g., add-in, add-on, and / or applet) software applications, and / or any other suitable software applications. For example, the one or more software applications may include instructions executable by the processor (110-A). For example, memory (120-A) may store instructions that can be called by an application programming interface (API). For example, memory (120-A) may store instructions within a library.

[0136] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation to provide a touch-disabled UI according to one embodiment.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (100) can display content in a first content area (S410). The electronic device (100) can display content in a first content area, which is a pre-set area. The first content area can be changed by user settings. The first content area may represent an area where current content is displayed.

[0138] The electronic device (100) can acquire user input by touching the display (140) while content is being displayed (S420). The electronic device (100) can identify the touch location corresponding to the user input.

[0139] The electronic device (100) can acquire the pressure of the user input (S430). The electronic device (100) may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may be placed below the display (140). The electronic device (100) can acquire the pressure (or pressure value) corresponding to the user input through the pressure sensor. The electronic device (100) can acquire sensing data through the pressure sensor. The electronic device (100) can acquire the pressure corresponding to the user input based on the sensing data.

[0140] The electronic device (100) can identify whether the pressure (sensed pressure) is above a threshold pressure (S435). The threshold pressure can be changed by user settings. If the pressure is below the threshold pressure (S435-N), the electronic device (100) can repeat the S420, S430, and S435 operations.

[0141] If the pressure is greater than or equal to the critical pressure (S435-Y), the electronic device (100) may provide a touch disable UI (S440). The touch disable UI may be a UI that indicates that the touch recognition function is disabled so that touch recognition is not performed for the touch location where user input is acquired.

[0142] For example, a touch-disabled UI may be a UI that displays a target area in a pre-set color (e.g., black).

[0143] For example, a touch-disabled UI may be a UI that displays a target area with a pre-set transparency.

[0144] For example, pressure and rotational speed can be considered together to provide a touch-disabled UI. The electronic device (100) can obtain the rotational speed at which the first panel (110) rotates. The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI if the pressure of the user input is greater than or equal to a threshold pressure and the rotational speed is greater than or equal to a threshold speed.

[0145] For example, if a threshold time elapses after a touch-disabled UI is provided, the electronic device (100) may not provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0146] User input may include multiple inputs.

[0147] The electronic device (100) can determine the conditions for providing a user's folding intention or a disabled UI using touch information. The touch information may include various information related to the user's touch input. In the description above, the touch information is described as representing touch pressure.

[0148] As another example, the electronic device (100) can recognize user input by using various data of user input instead of pressure from user input. User input may include touch input such as the user's hand or finger through a touch screen. The electronic device (100) can acquire user input based on at least one of the size of the capacitance, touch area, touch location (grip shape), or touch shape for the touch input. The electronic device (100) can recognize a folding intention based on user input. For example, the electronic device (100) can acquire touch information included in the sensing data. The electronic device (100) can determine whether to provide a disabled UI by comparing the acquired touch information with a threshold value corresponding to the touch information. The threshold value may vary depending on the type of touch information. The threshold value may be changed according to user settings.

[0149] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of receiving a plurality of user inputs according to one embodiment.

[0150] The operations S510 and S560 of FIG. 5 may correspond to the operations S410 and S460 of FIG. 4. Redundant explanation is omitted.

[0151] The electronic device (100) can receive a first user input touching the first panel (110) and a second user input touching the third panel (130) while displaying content (S520).

[0152] The electronic device (100) can obtain a first pressure of a first user input and a second pressure of a second user input through a pressure sensor.

[0153] The electronic device (100) can determine whether to provide a touch-disabled UI based on a first pressure and a second pressure.

[0154] For example, the electronic device (100) can identify whether the first pressure and the second pressure are above a threshold pressure (S535). The threshold pressure may be changed according to user settings. If both the first pressure and the second pressure are above the threshold pressure, the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI (S560). If both the first pressure and the second pressure are above the threshold pressure, the electronic device (100) can identify a user intent related to folding. The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI according to the user intent to fold. If both the first pressure and the second pressure are not above the threshold pressure (S535-N), the electronic device (100) can repeat steps S520, S530, and S535.

[0155] For example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether to provide a touch-disabled UI based on the average value of a first pressure and a second pressure. The electronic device (100) may obtain the average value of the first pressure and the second pressure. If the average value is greater than or equal to a threshold pressure, the electronic device (100) may provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0156] For example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether to provide a touch disable UI for each of the first pressure and the second pressure. If the first pressure is greater than or equal to a threshold pressure, a touch disable UI may be provided to a first target area corresponding to the first user input. If the second pressure is greater than or equal to a threshold pressure, a touch disable UI may be provided to a second target area corresponding to the second user input. Specific operations related thereto are described in FIG. 23.

[0157] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an operation to provide a touch-disabled UI by analyzing a rotation angle according to one embodiment.

[0158] The operations S610, S620, S630, S635, and S660 of FIG. 6 may correspond to the operations S410, S420, S430, S435, and S440 of FIG. 4. In relation to multiple user inputs, the operations S610, S620, S630, S635, and S660 of FIG. 6 may correspond to the operations S510, S520, S530, S535, and S540 of FIG. 5. Redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0159] The electronic device (100) can obtain a first rotation angle (a1) corresponding to the first panel (110) and a second rotation angle (a2) corresponding to the third panel (130) (S640).

[0160] The electronic device (100) may include a first angle sensor that senses the rotation angle of the first panel (110). The electronic device (100) may sense the rotation angle of the first panel (110) based on sensing data obtained through the first angle sensor.

[0161] The electronic device (100) may include a second angle sensor that senses the rotation angle of the third panel (130). The electronic device (100) may sense the rotation angle of the third panel (130) based on sensing data obtained through the second angle sensor.

[0162] The angle sensor can be implemented as a gyroscope sensor, an accelerometer sensor, or a Hall sensor.

[0163] The electronic device (100) can determine whether to provide a touch-disabled UI based on a first rotation angle (a1) and a second rotation angle (a2).

[0164] The electronic device (100) can identify whether the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first critical angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second critical angle (S650).

[0165] The first critical angle and the first critical angle can be changed according to user settings.

[0166] If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second threshold angle (S650-Y), the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI (S660). If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is not less than or equal to the second threshold angle (S650-N), the electronic device (100) can repeat the operations S620, S630, S635, S640, and S650.

[0167] For example, the first critical angle can be the same as the second critical angle.

[0168] For example, the first critical angle can be larger than the second critical angle.

[0169] For example, the first critical angle can be smaller than the second critical angle.

[0170] For example, if the first rotation angle (a1) or the second rotation angle (a2) does not change for more than a threshold time, the electronic device (100) may not provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0171] For example, steps S630 and S635 can be omitted.

[0172] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the operation of comparing critical angles in consideration of rotational speed according to one embodiment.

[0173] The operations S710, S720, S730, S735, S740, and S760 of FIG. 7 may correspond to the operations S610, S620, S630, S635, S640, and S660 of FIG. 6. In relation to multiple user inputs, the operations S710, S720, S730, S735, and S760 of FIG. 7 may correspond to the operations S510, S520, S530, S535, and S540 of FIG. 5. Redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0174] The electronic device (100) can obtain a first rotation angle (a1) corresponding to the first panel (110) and a second rotation angle (a2) corresponding to the third panel (130) (S740).

[0175] The electronic device (100) can obtain a first rotational speed corresponding to the first panel (110) (S741). The electronic device (100) can identify whether the first rotational speed is greater than or equal to a first threshold speed (S742). The electronic device (100) can determine the user's folding intention based on the first rotational speed.

[0176] If the first rotational speed is greater than or equal to the first threshold speed, the electronic device (100) can determine that there is a high probability that the user input is for folding. If there is a high probability of a folding intention, the electronic device (100) can compare the first rotational angle (a1) of the first panel (110) with respect to the first threshold angle.

[0177] If the first rotational speed is less than the first threshold speed, the electronic device (100) may determine that the probability that the user input is for folding is low. If the probability of a folding intention is low, the electronic device (100) may compare the first rotational angle (a1) of the first panel (110) with respect to the fifth threshold angle.

[0178] For example, the fifth critical angle may be greater than the first critical angle. When the probability of a folding intention is low, the first panel (110) must be rotated more than when the probability of a folding intention is high, so that the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0179] If the first rotational speed is greater than or equal to the first critical speed (S742-Y), the electronic device (100) can identify whether the first rotational angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first critical angle and the second rotational angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second critical angle (S751).

[0180] If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second threshold angle (S751-Y), the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0181] If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first critical angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is not less than or equal to the second critical angle (S751-N), the electronic device (100) can repeat the operations S720, S730, S735, S740, S741, S742, S751, and S752.

[0182] If the first rotational speed is less than the first critical speed (S742-N), the electronic device (100) can identify whether the first rotational angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the fifth critical angle and the second rotational angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second critical angle (S752).

[0183] If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the fifth critical angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second critical angle (S752-Y), the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0184] If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the fifth critical angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is not less than or equal to the second critical angle (S752-N), the electronic device (100) can repeat the operations S720, S730, S735, S740, S741, S742, S751, and S752.

[0185] For example, steps S730 and S735 can be omitted.

[0186] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a target area for providing a touch-disabled UI according to one embodiment.

[0187] Referring to FIG. 8, the electronic device (100) can identify a target area to provide a touch-disabled UI. The electronic device (100) can identify an area where user input is obtained as the target area. The electronic device (100) can control the touch function to be disabled for the target area. The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI for the target area.

[0188] The target area can be determined based on the touch location where user input is entered. Specific actions for determining the target area are described in FIG. 24. The target area can be determined as a touch-inactive area.

[0189] The electronic device (100) can identify a first target area corresponding to a first user input and a second target area corresponding to a second user input (S861).

[0190] The electronic device (100) can obtain a first size of a first target area and a second size of a second target area. The electronic device (100) can obtain first location information of the first target area. The electronic device (100) can obtain a first size of the first target area based on the first location information of the first target area. The electronic device (100) can obtain second location information of the second target area. The electronic device (100) can obtain a second size of the second target area based on the second location information of the second target area. The size may include at least one of a width, a height, and an area.

[0191] The electronic device (100) can identify a second content area by changing the size of the first content area based on the first size of the first target area and the second size of the second target area (S862).

[0192] The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI in a first target area and a second target area (S863). The electronic device (100) can display content in a second content area (S864).

[0193] The size can be replaced with location information. For example, an electronic device (100) can identify a second content area by changing the size of a first content area based on first location information of a first target area and second location information of a second target area.

[0194] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an operation to provide a touch disable UI to a plurality of target areas according to one embodiment.

[0195] Referring to the embodiment (910) of FIG. 9, the electronic device (100) can display content in the first content area (11).

[0196] Referring to the embodiment (920) of FIG. 9, the electronic device (100) can obtain a first rotation angle (a1) of the first panel (110) and a second rotation angle (a2) of the third panel (130).

[0197] If preset conditions related to the first rotation angle (a1) and the second rotation angle (a2) are satisfied, the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI. The preset conditions may include conditions where the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to a first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to a second threshold angle.

[0198] The electronic device (100) can identify a first target area (21) corresponding to a first user input. The electronic device (100) can identify a second target area (22) corresponding to a second user input.

[0199] The electronic device (100) can identify a second content area (12) based on a first size of a first target area (21) and a second size of a second target area (22). The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI to the first target area (21) and the second target area (22). The electronic device (100) can display content in the second content area (12).

[0200] The size of the second content area (12) may be smaller than the size of the first content area (11). The electronic device (100) may change the resolution of the content based on the second content area (12). The electronic device (100) may control the display (140) so that the content is displayed in the second content area (12) based on the changed resolution.

[0201] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the operation of changing a plurality of target areas and content areas according to one embodiment.

[0202] Referring to FIG. 10, the electronic device (100) can determine whether a threshold time has elapsed after providing a touch disable UI (S1071). The threshold time may be changed according to user settings.

[0203] When a threshold time has elapsed from the point where the touch disabled UI is provided (S1071), the electronic device (100) can obtain a third rotation angle (a3) ​​corresponding to the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle (a4) corresponding to the third panel (130) (S1072).

[0204] The electronic device (100) may include a first angle sensor that senses the rotation angle of the first panel (110). The electronic device (100) may sense the rotation angle of the first panel (110) based on sensing data obtained through the first angle sensor.

[0205] The electronic device (100) may include a second angle sensor that senses the rotation angle of the third panel (130). The electronic device (100) may sense the rotation angle of the third panel (130) based on sensing data obtained through the second angle sensor.

[0206] The first rotation angle may be the rotation angle of the first panel (110) sensed before the touch disable UI is provided.

[0207] The second rotation angle may be the rotation angle of the third panel (130) sensed before the touch disable UI is provided.

[0208] The third rotation angle may be the rotation angle of the first panel (110) sensed after the touch disable UI is provided.

[0209] The fourth rotation angle may be the rotation angle of the third panel (130) sensed after the touch-disabled UI is provided.

[0210] The electronic device (100) can identify a third target area of ​​a third size by changing the first size of the first target area based on the third rotation angle (a3) ​​(S1073). The electronic device (100) can identify a fourth target area of ​​a fourth size by changing the second size of the second target area based on the fourth rotation angle (a4) (S1074). The size of the target area can be changed according to the degree of rotation of the panel.

[0211] The electronic device (100) can identify a third content area by changing the size of a second content area based on the third size of a third target area and the fourth size of a fourth target area (S1075). When the size of the target area is changed, the size of the content area can also be changed.

[0212] The electronic device (100) can provide a touch disable UI to the third target area and the fourth target area (S1076).

[0213] The electronic device (100) can display content in a third content area (S1077). The electronic device (100) can change the content resolution based on a third content area of ​​a third size. The electronic device (100) can control the display (140) so that content of the changed resolution is displayed in the third content area.

[0214] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining an operation to identify a plurality of events based on a rotation angle according to one embodiment.

[0215] Steps S1171 and S1172 of FIG. 11 may correspond to steps S1071 and S1072 of FIG. 10. Redundant description is omitted. The operations described in FIG. 11 may be performed together with the operations of FIG. 10.

[0216] The electronic device (100) can identify a folding event based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4). The folding event may include at least one of a full folding event, a half folding event, a standing folding event, or a reverse half folding event.

[0217] A full folding event may represent an event in which both the first panel (110) and the third panel (130) are completely folded. An explanation related to this is provided in FIG. 12.

[0218] A half-folding event may represent an event in which only the first panel (110) (or the third panel (130)) is completely folded. An explanation related to this is provided in FIG. 13.

[0219] A standing folding event may represent an event in which the first panel (110) and the third panel (130) are positioned at an angle within a critical range without being completely folded. An explanation related to this is provided in FIG. 14. The standing folding event may be described as a flex mode event or a folding screen mode event, etc.

[0220] A reverse half-folding event may represent an event in which, at a first point in time (e.g., before the touch-disabled UI is provided), the first panel (110) is folded at a greater rotational angle than the third panel (130), and at a second point in time (e.g., after the touch-disabled UI is provided), conversely, the third panel (130) is folded at a greater rotational angle than the first panel (110). As another example, the folding order of the first panel (110) and the third panel (130) may be reversed.

[0221] The electronic device (100) can identify whether the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and whether the fourth rotation angle (a4) is greater than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1173).

[0222] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is greater than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1173-Y), the electronic device (100) can identify that a full folding event has occurred (S1174). The full folding event can be described as the first event.

[0223] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is not greater than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1173-N), the electronic device (100) can identify whether the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1175).

[0224] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1175-Y), the electronic device (100) can identify that a half-folding event has occurred (S1176). The half-folding event can be described as a second event.

[0225] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is not less than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1175-N), the electronic device (100) can identify whether the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is less than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1177).

[0226] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is less than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1177-Y), the electronic device (100) can identify that a standing folding event has occurred (S1178). The standing folding event may be described as the third event.

[0227] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is less than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is not less than or equal to the fourth critical angle (S1177-N), the electronic device (100) can identify that a reverse half-folding event has occurred (S1179). The reverse half-folding event may be described as the fourth event.

[0228] If the third critical angle is less than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth critical angle is greater than or equal to the fourth critical angle, the electronic device (100) can identify a reverse half-folding event.

[0229] For example, the third critical angle can be the same as the fourth critical angle.

[0230] For example, the third critical angle can be larger than the fourth critical angle.

[0231] For example, the third critical angle can be smaller than the fourth critical angle.

[0232] For example, the third critical angle can be the same as the first critical angle.

[0233] For example, the third critical angle can be larger than the first critical angle.

[0234] For example, the fourth critical angle can be the same as the second critical angle.

[0235] For example, the fourth critical angle can be larger than the second critical angle.

[0236] FIG. 12 is a drawing for illustrating a full folding event according to one embodiment.

[0237] The embodiment (1210) of FIG. 12 may correspond to the embodiment (920) of FIG. 9. Redundant description is omitted. The embodiment (1210) may represent a state in which the first rotation angle (a1) of the first panel (110) is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) of the second panel (120) is less than or equal to the second threshold angle. The electronic device (100) may provide a touch-disabled UI in the first target area (21) corresponding to the first user input and the second target area (22) corresponding to the second user input. The electronic device (100) may display content in the second content area (12).

[0238] After the touch-disabled UI is provided, the electronic device (100) can obtain a third rotation angle (a3) ​​of the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle (a4) of the third panel (130).

[0239] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is greater than or equal to the fourth critical angle, the electronic device (100) can identify that a full folding event has occurred.

[0240] Referring to the embodiment (1220) of FIG. 12, the electronic device (100) can gradually change the target area and the content area based on a full folding event. Gradually changing may mean changing the size of the target area and the content area based on an increase or decrease in the rotation angle.

[0241] The electronic device (100) can identify a third target area (23) based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​of the first panel (110). The electronic device (100) can identify a fourth target area (24) based on a fourth rotation angle (a4) of the third panel (130). The electronic device (100) can obtain a third content area (13) based on a third size of the third target area (23) and a fourth size of the fourth target area (24).

[0242] The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI in the third target area (23) and the fourth target area (24). The electronic device (100) can display content in the third content area (13).

[0243] For example, the third target area (23) may be larger than the first target area (21). The touch disable area may be widened.

[0244] For example, the fourth target area (24) may be larger than the second target area (22). The touch disable area may be widened.

[0245] FIG. 13 is a drawing for illustrating a half folding event according to one embodiment.

[0246] The embodiment (1310) of FIG. 13 may correspond to the embodiment (920) of FIG. 9 and the embodiment (1110) of FIG. 11. Redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0247] After the touch-disabled UI is provided, the electronic device (100) can obtain a third rotation angle (a3) ​​of the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle (a4) of the third panel (130).

[0248] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle, the electronic device (100) can identify that a half-folding event has occurred.

[0249] Referring to the embodiment (1320) of FIG. 13, the electronic device (100) can change the target area and the content area based on a half-folding event. The electronic device (100) can change the target area based on a third rotation angle (a3). The electronic device (100) can identify both the first area (140a) corresponding to the first panel (110) and the second area (140b) corresponding to the second panel (120) as the fifth target area (25). The electronic device (100) can identify the third area (140c) corresponding to the third panel (130) as the fourth content area (14).

[0250] The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI in the fifth target area (25). When the first panel (110) is completely folded toward the second panel (120), the first area (140a) and the second area (140b) may be difficult to touch.

[0251] The electronic device (100) can display content in the fourth content area (14). The electronic device (100) can change the resolution of the content based on the size of the fourth content area (14). The electronic device (100) can control the display (140) so that the content is displayed in the fourth content area (14) based on the changed resolution.

[0252] FIG. 14 is a drawing for illustrating a standing folding event according to one embodiment.

[0253] The embodiment (1410) of FIG. 14 may correspond to the embodiment (920) of FIG. 9 and the embodiment (1210) of FIG. 12. Redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0254] After the touch-disabled UI is provided, the electronic device (100) can obtain a third rotation angle (a3) ​​of the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle (a4) of the third panel (130).

[0255] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is less than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle, the electronic device (100) can identify that a standing folding event has occurred.

[0256] Referring to the embodiment (1420) of FIG. 14, the electronic device (100) can change the target area and the content area based on a standing folding event. When a standing folding event is identified, the electronic device (100) can create only the content area without the target area. The electronic device (100) can identify a fifth content area (15) including at least one of a first area (140a) corresponding to the first panel (110), a second area (140b) corresponding to the second panel (120), and a third area (140c) corresponding to the third panel (130).

[0257] For example, the fifth content area (15) may include the first area (140a), the second area (140b), and the third area (140c).

[0258] For example, the fifth content area (15) may be the entire area of ​​the display.

[0259] For example, the fifth content area (15) may be a pre-set area among the entire area of ​​the display. The pre-set area may be changed according to the user's settings.

[0260] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining an embodiment in which only the first panel (110) rotates according to one embodiment.

[0261] The embodiment (1510) of FIG. 15 may correspond to the embodiment (910) of FIG. 9. Redundant description is omitted. The electronic device (100) can display content in the first content area (11).

[0262] Referring to the embodiment (1520) of FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) can obtain a first rotation angle (a1) of the first panel (110) and a third rotation angle (a3) ​​of the third panel (130).

[0263] If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, the electronic device (100) can execute a touch control module to provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0264] A touch control module may be a module that disables touch based on the location where user input is received according to preset conditions, and provides a UI indicating the disabled touch area. The touch control module may include a touch control application.

[0265] When the touch control module is in a deactivated state, if the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, the electronic device (100) can change the touch control module to an activated state by executing the touch control module.

[0266] Unlike the description in FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 12, even though the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than the second threshold angle, the electronic device (100) may not provide a separate touch disable UI.

[0267] Simply put, the electronic device (100) can execute a touch control module and analyze whether there is additional rotation. If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, the electronic device (100) can start (or perform) a function to determine a folding event.

[0268] In the embodiment (1520) of FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) can display content in the first content area (11).

[0269] Referring to the embodiment (1530) of FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) can obtain a third rotation angle (a3) ​​of the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle (a4) of the third panel (130) after executing the touch control module (or after starting the function to determine the folding event).

[0270] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle, the electronic device (100) can identify a half-folding event.

[0271] It is assumed that the first panel (110) is folded toward the second panel (120). It is assumed that the third panel (130) is not further folded. The second rotation angle (a2) of the embodiment (1520) of FIG. 15 and the fourth rotation angle (a4) of the embodiment (1530) of FIG. 15 may be the same. If the second rotation angle (a2) and the fourth rotation angle (a4) are the same, the electronic device (100) may not identify the second target area (22).

[0272] When a half-folding event is identified, the electronic device (100) can identify a first target area (21) based on a first user input. The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI to the first target area (21). Unlike the description in FIG. 9 and FIG. 12, in the embodiment (1530) of FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) may not provide a touch-disabled UI in relation to a second user input. In a situation where the first panel (110) is folded first, the electronic device (100) can control the touch sensor to disable only the touch function for the first target area (21) included in the first panel (110).

[0273] An embodiment providing a touch-disabling UI not only in the first target area (21) but also in the second target area (22) is described in FIG. 20.

[0274] For example, an electronic device (100) can identify a relative angle. The relative angle may represent the difference angle between a first rotation angle (a1) and a second rotation angle (a2). The electronic device (100) can obtain the difference angle between the first rotation angle (a1) and the second rotation angle (a2) as the relative angle. The electronic device (100) can determine whether the relative angle is less than a threshold angle. If the relative angle is greater than or equal to the threshold angle, the electronic device (100) can execute a touch control module to provide a touch-disabled UI, as in the embodiment (1520) of FIG. 15.

[0275] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the operation of changing the content structure in a full folding event according to one embodiment. The electronic device (100) can change the structure (or layout) of the content during the folding process.

[0276] Referring to the embodiment (1610) of FIG. 16, the electronic device (100) can display content in a first content area (11). The content may include a plurality of sub-contents. The content may include a first sub-content (1601) and a second sub-content (1602). The source of each sub-content may be different. The fact that the source is different may indicate that the site, application, web page, etc. providing the content is different.

[0277] The electronic device (100) can display a first sub-content (1601) in a first area (140a) of a first panel (110) and a second area (140b) of a second panel (120), and display a second sub-content (1602) in a third area (140c) of a third panel (130).

[0278] Referring to the embodiment (1620) of FIG. 16, the electronic device (100) can obtain a first rotation angle (a1) and a second rotation angle (a2).

[0279] If the first rotation angle (a1) is greater than or equal to the first critical angle and the second rotation angle (a2) is less than or equal to the second critical angle, the electronic device (100) can identify the first target area (21) and the second target area (22). The electronic device (100) can identify the second content area (12) based on the first size of the first target area (21) and the second size of the second target area (22).

[0280] The electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI in the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0281] The electronic device (100) can display a first sub-content (1601) in an area corresponding to the first panel (110) and the second panel (120) in the second content area (12). The electronic device (100) can display a second sub-content (1603) in an area corresponding to the third panel (130) in the second content area (12).

[0282] Referring to the embodiment (1630) of FIG. 16, the electronic device (100) can obtain a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4).

[0283] If the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third threshold angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth threshold angle, the electronic device (100) can identify the third target area (23) and the fourth target area (24). The electronic device (100) can identify the third content area (13) based on the third size of the third target area (23) and the fourth size of the fourth target area (24).

[0284] When the third content area (13) is obtained, the electronic device (100) can combine the first sub-content (1601) and the second sub-content (1602) to create integrated content (1603). The electronic device (100) can control the display (140) to display the integrated content (1603) in the third content area (13).

[0285] For example, the electronic device (100) can identify the size of a content area. The electronic device (100) can identify whether the size of the content area is less than a threshold size. If the size of the content area is less than a threshold size, the electronic device (100) can change the layout of the content. If the size of the content area is less than a threshold size, the electronic device (100) can combine the first sub-content (1601) and the second sub-content (1602) to create integrated content (1603).

[0286] FIG. 17 is a drawing for illustrating the full folding state in a full folding event according to one embodiment.

[0287] The embodiment (1730) of FIG. 17 may correspond to the embodiment (1630) of FIG. 16. Redundant description is omitted.

[0288] The embodiment (1740) of FIG. 17 may represent a situation where the rotation angle of the first panel (110) is greater than that of the embodiment (1730). When the first panel (110) is completely folded, the third panel (130) may be folded. In the embodiment (1740), the touch functions of the first area (140a) and the third area (140c) may both be disabled.

[0289] The embodiment (1750) of FIG. 17 may show a state where the third panel (130) is completely folded after the first panel (110) is folded. The electronic device (100) may change the touch function for all areas of the display (140) to a disabled state.

[0290] FIG. 18 is a drawing for explaining the half-folding state in a half-folding event according to one embodiment.

[0291] The embodiment (1830) of FIG. 18 may correspond to the embodiment (1630) of FIG. 16. Redundant description is omitted.

[0292] Referring to the embodiment (1840) of FIG. 18, the electronic device (100) can identify a half-folding event. When a half-folding event is identified, the electronic device (100) can move the fourth content area (14) toward the third area (140c) of the third panel (130).

[0293] As the content area (14) moves toward the third area (140c) of the third panel (130), the size of the target area (24) identified in the third panel (130) can be gradually reduced.

[0294] Referring to the embodiment (1850) of FIG. 18, it is assumed that the first panel (110) is completely folded onto the second panel (120). The electronic device (100) may determine the fourth content area (14) as the third area (140c). The electronic device (100) may display content on the fourth content area (14) above the third area (140c).

[0295] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining the standing folding state in a self-standing event according to one embodiment.

[0296] The embodiment (1930) of FIG. 19 may correspond to the embodiment (1630) of FIG. 16. Redundant description is omitted.

[0297] Referring to the embodiment (1940) of FIG. 19, the electronic device (100) can identify a standing folding event. When a standing folding event is identified, the electronic device (100) can identify a preset area as a fifth content area (15).

[0298] For example, the pre-set area may include a part of the first area (140a), a part of the second area (140b), and a part of the third area (140c).

[0299] For example, the pre-set area may include the first area (140a), the second area (140b), and the third area (140c). An explanation related to this is described in the embodiment (1420) of FIG. 14.

[0300] Referring to the embodiment (1950) of FIG. 19, the electronic device (100) can be set up without user input. Even if the user is not holding the electronic device (100), the electronic device (100) can be set up on its own due to the folded angle.

[0301] FIG. 20 is a drawing for illustrating a full folding event in an embodiment in which a touch-disabled UI is provided based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4) according to one embodiment.

[0302] The embodiment (2010) of FIG. 20 may correspond to the embodiment (1510) of FIG. 15.

[0303] The embodiment (2020) of FIG. 20 may correspond to the embodiment (1520) of FIG. 15.

[0304] Referring to the embodiment (2030) of FIG. 20, if the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third threshold angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth threshold angle, the electronic device (100) can identify the first target area (21) and the second target area (22). The electronic device (100) can provide a touch disable UI to the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0305] For example, to provide a touch-disabled UI, the electronic device (100) may utilize touch pressure or rotational speed. The electronic device (100) may obtain a first pressure of a first user input and a second pressure of a second user input. The electronic device (100) may obtain a first rotational speed of a first panel (110) or a second rotational speed of a third panel (130).

[0306] The electronic device (100) can identify whether the first condition is satisfied in which both the first pressure and the second pressure are greater than or equal to the critical pressure.

[0307] The electronic device (100) can identify whether the first rotational speed or the second rotational speed satisfies a second condition in which the speed is greater than or equal to the critical speed.

[0308] The electronic device (100) can identify whether the third condition is satisfied, in which the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is greater than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle.

[0309] For example, if the third condition is satisfied, the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0310] For example, if the first and third conditions are satisfied, the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0311] For example, if the second and third conditions are satisfied, the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0312] For example, if the first, second, and third conditions are satisfied, the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI.

[0313] FIG. 21 is a drawing for illustrating a half-folding event in an embodiment in which a touch-disabled UI is provided based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4) according to one embodiment.

[0314] The embodiment (2110) of FIG. 21 may correspond to the embodiment (1510) of FIG. 15.

[0315] The embodiment (2120) of FIG. 21 may correspond to the embodiment (1520) of FIG. 15.

[0316] Referring to the embodiment (2130) of FIG. 21, the electronic device (100) can identify a half-folding event based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4). The electronic device (100) can identify a fourth content area (14) as a third area (140c) based on the half-folding event. The electronic device (100) can display content in the fourth content area (14).

[0317] FIG. 22 is a drawing for illustrating a standing folding event in an embodiment in which a touch-disabling UI is provided based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4) according to one embodiment.

[0318] The embodiment (2210) of FIG. 22 may correspond to the embodiment (1510) of FIG. 15.

[0319] The embodiment (2220) of FIG. 22 may correspond to the embodiment (1520) of FIG. 15.

[0320] Referring to the embodiment (2230) of FIG. 22, the electronic device (100) can identify a standing folding event based on a third rotation angle (a3) ​​and a fourth rotation angle (a4).

[0321] Depending on the standing folding event, the electronic device (100) can continue to display content in the first content area (11) as is without providing a touch-disabled UI.

[0322] For example, before the touch control module is executed, the electronic device (100) can obtain a first pressure of a first user input and a second pressure of a second user input. After the touch control module is executed, the electronic device (100) can obtain a third pressure of a first user input and a fourth pressure of a second user input.

[0323] The electronic device (100) can identify whether the third rotation angle (a3) ​​is less than or equal to the third critical angle and the fourth rotation angle (a4) is less than or equal to the fourth critical angle, satisfying a fourth condition.

[0324] The electronic device (100) can identify whether the third pressure is smaller than the first pressure and the fourth pressure is smaller than the second pressure, satisfying the fifth condition.

[0325] For example, if the fourth condition is satisfied, the electronic device (100) can identify that a standing folding event has occurred.

[0326] For example, if the fourth and fifth conditions are satisfied, the electronic device (100) can identify that a standing folding event has occurred.

[0327] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating the operation of analyzing touch pressure for each user input according to one embodiment.

[0328] Steps S2310, S2320, and S2330 of FIG. 23 may correspond to steps S510, S520, and S530 of FIG. 5. Redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0329] When the first pressure and the second pressure are obtained, the electronic device (100) can identify whether the first pressure is greater than or equal to the critical pressure (S2335).

[0330] If the first pressure is greater than or equal to the critical pressure (S2335-Y), the electronic device (100) can identify whether the second pressure is greater than or equal to the critical pressure (S2336).

[0331] If the second pressure is greater than or equal to the threshold pressure (S2336-Y), the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI in the first target area (21) corresponding to the first user input and the second target area (22) corresponding to the second user input (S2361).

[0332] If the second pressure is less than the threshold pressure (S2336-N), the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI in the first target area (21) corresponding to the first user input (S2362).

[0333] If the first pressure is less than the critical pressure (S2335-N), the electronic device (100) can identify whether the second pressure is greater than or equal to the critical pressure (S2337).

[0334] If the second pressure is not greater than or equal to the critical pressure (S2337-N), the electronic device (100) can repeat the S2320, S2330, S2335, S2336, S2361, S2362, S2337, and S2363 operations.

[0335] If the second pressure is greater than or equal to the threshold pressure (S2337-Y), the electronic device (100) can provide a touch-disabled UI in the second target area (22) corresponding to the second user input (S2363).

[0336] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating the operation of determining a target area.

[0337] Referring to the embodiment (2400) of FIG. 24, the display (140) can be defined such that the x-axis coordinates are from x0 to x3 and the y-axis coordinates are from y0 to y1.

[0338] The x-axis coordinates of the first region (140a) may be from x0 to x1. The y-axis coordinates of the first region (140a) may be from y0 to y1. The size of the first region (140a) may be r1.

[0339] The x-axis coordinates of the second region (140b) may be from x1 to x2. The y-axis coordinates of the second region (140b) may be from y0 to y1. The size of the second region (140b) may be r2.

[0340] The x-axis coordinates of the third region (140c) may be from x2 to x3. The y-axis coordinates of the third region (140c) may be from y0 to y1. The size of the third region (140c) may be r3.

[0341] The electronic device (100) can identify a first touch location (2401) where a first user input is entered. The electronic device (100) can identify a second touch location (2402) where a second user input is entered.

[0342] The electronic device (100) can obtain the x-axis coordinate (x4) of a first touch location (2401) corresponding to a first user input. The electronic device (100) can identify a first target coordinate (x5) located at a first threshold distance (r5) away from the x-axis coordinate (x4) of the first touch location (2401). The first target coordinate (x5) may be closer to the second panel (120) than the x-axis coordinate (x4) of the first touch location (2401).

[0343] The electronic device (100) can identify the area from x0 to the first target coordinate (x5) as the first target area (21). The x-axis coordinates of the first target area (21) may be from x0 to x5. The y-axis coordinates of the first target area (21) may be from y0 to y1.

[0344] The electronic device (100) can obtain the x-axis coordinate (x6) of a second touch location (2402) corresponding to a second user input. The electronic device (100) can identify a second target coordinate (x7) located at a distance of a second threshold distance (r7) from the x-axis coordinate (x6) of the second touch location (2402). The second target coordinate (x7) may be closer to the second panel (120) than the x-axis coordinate (x6) of the second touch location (2402).

[0345] The electronic device (100) can identify the second target coordinates (x7) to x3 as the second target area (22). The x-axis coordinates of the second target area (22) may be from x7 to x3. The y-axis coordinates of the second target area (22) may be from y0 to y1.

[0346] FIG. 24 shows that the y-axis coordinates of the first target area (21) and the second target area (22) are y0 to y1. y0 represents the lowest side of the electronic device (100) and y1 represents the highest side of the electronic device (100). Depending on the implementation example, y0 and y1 may be target coordinates located at a threshold distance from the touch location (2401, 2402).

[0347] The electronic device (100) can obtain a first y-axis range located at a threshold distance from the y-axis coordinate of the first touch position (2401). The electronic device (100) can obtain a second y-axis range located at a threshold distance from the y-axis coordinate of the second touch position (2402). If the y-axis values ​​of the first touch position (2401) and the second touch position (2402) are different, the first y-axis range and the second y-axis range may also be different.

[0348] The first target area (21) may be an area within a threshold distance from the first touch location (2401). In FIG. 24, the first target area (21) is shown as extending from the first target coordinate (x5) to the leftmost point (x-axis reference) of the first area (140a). Depending on the implementation example, the first target area (21) may extend from the first target coordinate (x5) to a coordinate located at a certain distance or more from the leftmost point (x-axis reference) of the first area (140a). The y-axis range of the first target area (21) may also be determined as the first y-axis range as described above.

[0349] The second target area (22) may be an area within a threshold distance from the second touch location (2402). In FIG. 24, the second target area (22) is shown as extending from the second target coordinate (x7) to the far right (x-axis-based) of the third area (140c). Depending on the implementation example, the second target area (22) may extend from the second target coordinate (x7) to a coordinate located at a certain distance or more from the far right (x-axis-based) point of the third area (140c). The y-axis range of the second target area (22) may also be determined as the second y-axis range as described above.

[0350] The threshold distance may be a value for providing a touch-disabled UI by leaving a margin of space beyond the touch location.

[0351] For example, the first threshold distance and the second threshold distance may be 0. The electronic device (100) may identify the target area only up to the location where the first user input and the second user input are touched.

[0352] FIG. 25 is a drawing for explaining a method of controlling an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0353] Referring to FIG. 25, a control method for an electronic device (100) including a display (140) comprising a first area (140a) corresponding to a first panel (110), a second area (140b) corresponding to a second panel (120), and a third area (140c) corresponding to a third panel (130) may include the step of displaying content in a first content area (S2510); the step of obtaining a first rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a second rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130) when a first user input touching the first area (140a) and a second user input touching the third area (140c) are received (S2520); and the step of providing a touch disable UI based on the first user input and the second user input when the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to a first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to a second threshold angle (S2530).

[0354] The step of providing a touch disable UI (S2530) can identify a first target area (21) corresponding to a first user input among the first area (140a) and identify a second target area (22) corresponding to a second user input among the third area (140c) when the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to a first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to a second threshold angle, and can provide a touch disable UI to the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0355] The control method may include the steps of identifying a first size of a first target area (21) and a second size of a second target area (22), identifying a second content area by changing the size of a first content area based on the first size and the second size, and displaying content in the second content area.

[0356] The step of providing a touch-disabled UI (S2530) can control the touch sensor so that touch is not recognized for the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0357] The touch disable UI may be a UI indicating that touch is disabled in the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0358] The touch disable UI may be a UI that displays a pre-set pattern in the first target area (21) and the second target area (22).

[0359] The control method may include the steps of obtaining a third rotation angle corresponding to the first panel (110) and a fourth rotation angle corresponding to the third panel (130) after a threshold time has elapsed following providing a touch disable UI, and providing a touch disable UI based on the third rotation angle and the fourth rotation angle.

[0360] The control method may include the steps of identifying a third target area (23) of a third size by changing the first size of a first target area (21) based on a third rotation angle, identifying a fourth target area (24) of a fourth size by changing the second size of a second target area (22) based on a fourth rotation angle, and providing a touch disable UI to the third target area (23) and the fourth target area (24).

[0361] The control method may include the step of identifying a third content area by changing the size of a second content area based on a third size of a third target area (23) and a fourth size of a fourth target area (24), and the step of displaying content in the third content area.

[0362] The step of obtaining the first rotation angle and the second rotation angle involves obtaining the first pressure of the first user input and obtaining the second pressure of the second user input, and if the first pressure and the second pressure are greater than or equal to the threshold pressure, the first rotation angle and the second rotation angle can be obtained.

[0363] In the present disclosure, a full folding state is shown in which the first panel (110) is folded inward first with respect to the second panel (120) and the third panel (130) is folded upward from the first panel (110). According to another embodiment, a full folding state may be implemented in which the third panel (130) is folded inward first with respect to the second panel (120) and the first panel (110) is folded upward from the third panel (130). The detailed operations, instructions, ordinal numbers, etc. related thereto may vary.

[0364] FIG. 26 illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device (100).

[0365] FIG. 27 illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device (100).

[0366] FIG. 28 illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device (100).

[0367] Referring to FIGS. 26, 27, and 28, the electronic device (100) may include a housing structure (101), a flexible display (140), a first hinge structure (150), a second hinge structure (160), and a display (170). The housing structure (101) may include a first housing part (110), a second housing part (120), and a third housing part (130).

[0368] The first housing part (110) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (120) by the first hinge structure (150). The second housing part (120) and the first housing part (110) can be rotated about the first hinge structure (150). While the first housing part (110) is rotated about the first hinge structure (150), the second housing part (120) can be rotated about the first hinge structure (150). For example, when the second housing part (120) and the first housing part (110) are rotated about the first hinge structure (150), the angular displacement of the second housing part (120) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the first housing part (110).

[0369] The third housing part (130) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (120) by the second hinge structure (160). The second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130) can be rotated about the second hinge structure (160). While the second housing part (120) is rotated about the second hinge structure (160), the third housing part (130) can be rotated about the second hinge structure (160). For example, when the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130) are rotated about the second hinge structure (160), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (120) may be substantially the same as the angular displacement of the third housing part (130).

[0370] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide (or enable) a first state (100a) of the electronic device (100) (or a first state (100a) of the housing structure (101). The first state (101) of the electronic device (100) (or a first state (100a)) of the housing structure (101) can be described as an unfolded state (or unfolded state) of the electronic device (100) (or housing structure (101)). Within the first state (100a), the front of the first housing part (110), the front of the second housing part (120), and the front of the third housing part (130) can define the front of the electronic device (100). In the first state (100a), the front of the first housing part (110), the front of the second housing part (120), and the front of the third housing part (130) may face in the same direction. In the first state (100a), the electronic device (100) may provide the user with a large display area of ​​the flexible display (140).

[0371] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide a second state (100b) of the electronic device (100) (or a second state (100b) of the housing structure (101). The second state (100b) of the electronic device (100) (or a second state (100b) of the housing structure (101)) can be described as a folded state (or a folded state or a multi-folded state) of the electronic device (100) (or the housing structure (101)). In the second state (100b), the front of the first housing part (110) and the front of the second housing part (120) may face in opposite directions, and the front of the second housing part (120) and the front of the third housing part (130) may face in opposite directions. In the second state (100b), the front of the first housing part (110) and the front of the third housing part (130) may face each other in the same direction. For example, in the second state (100b), the front of the second housing part (120) may face the front of the first housing part (110), and the front of the third housing part (130) may face the rear of the first housing part (110). In the second state (100b), the rear of the second housing part (120) may be exposed to the outside. A camera (175) may be placed on the rear of the second housing part (120). In the second state (100b), the rear of the third housing part (130) may be exposed to the outside. A display (170) may be placed on the rear of the third housing part (130). In the second state (100b), the electronic device (100) can be folded to improve portability and can provide visual information through a display (170) placed in the third housing part (130) of the electronic device (100) in the second state (100b).

[0372] The electronic device (100) may further include a key button (139). The key button (139) may be exposed from a structure (e.g., an opening) formed on the side of the third housing part (130) and may partially protrude outside the electronic device (100). The key button (139) may provide physical input to a processing circuit inside the electronic device (100) by pressure transmitted from the outside. The key button (139) may not be included in the electronic device and may be implemented in other forms, such as a soft key displayed on a flexible display (140) or a display (170).

[0373] A key button (139) may be positioned on the side of the third housing part (130) so as to be exposed to the outside in the second state (100b). The key button positioned in the third housing part (130) may be moved from the left side of the electronic device (100) to the right side of the electronic device (100) as the state of the electronic device (100) changes from the second state (100b) to the first state (100a) by a user looking at the display. For example, referring to FIG. 26, in the first state (100a), when looking up at the flexible display (140), the key button (139) may be positioned on the right side. Referring to FIG. 27, in the second state (100b), when looking up at the display (170), the key button (139) may be positioned on the left side.

[0374] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide a third state (100c) of the electronic device (100). The third state (100c) of the electronic device (100) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (100) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folding state or a half folding state). For example, in the third state (100c), the front of the second housing part (120) and the front of the third housing part (130) may face in the same direction, and the front of the first housing part (110) and the front of the second housing part (120) may face in opposite directions. For example, in the third state, the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) may be folded, and the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130) may be unfolded. In the third state (100c), the electronic device (100) can convey visual information through a part of the flexible display (140) (e.g., the third display area (140c)).

[0375] The electronic device (100) can change from the first state (100a) to the second state (100b) through the third state (100c). The electronic device (100) can change from the first state (100a), which is an unfolded state, to the third state (100c), which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (100) can change from the first state (100a), in which the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130) face the same direction, to the third state (100c), in which the front of the first housing part (110) faces the front of the second housing part (120). The electronic device (100) can change from the third state (100c), which is a partially unfolded state, to the second state (100b), which is a folded state. For example, when changing from the third state (100c) to the second state (100b), the folded first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) can be placed on the third housing part (130).

[0376] The flexible display (140) can define the appearance of the electronic device (100) at least partially. The flexible display (140) can be partially disposed within the housing structure (101). The flexible display (140) can define the front of the electronic device (100). The flexible display (140) may include a first unbendable portion (141), a second unbendable portion (142), a third unbendable portion (143), a first bendable portion (144), and a second bendable portion (145). The first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140) can be disposed on the front of the first housing part (110). The second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) can be disposed on the front of the second housing part (120). A third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) may be placed on the front of the third housing part (130). A first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) may be placed between the first unbendable portion (141) and the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140). For example, the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) may be placed on a first hinge structure (150) connecting the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120). A second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) may be placed between the second unbendable portion (142) and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140). For example, the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) may be placed on a second hinge structure (160) connecting the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130).

[0377] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) may have the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140), the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140), and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) oriented substantially in the same direction. In the first state (100a), the first bendable portion (144) and the second bendable portion (145) may be positioned in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (141), the second unbendable portion (142), and the third unbendable portion (143).

[0378] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide a second state (100b) of the electronic device (100). In the second state (100b), the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) faces the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140), and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) may face the rear of the first housing part (110).

[0379] In the second state (100b), the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) is bent by the first hinge structure (150), so that the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140) and the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) face in different directions.

[0380] In the second state (100b), the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) is bent by the second hinge structure (160), so that the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) can be folded such that the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) face in different directions. The second bendable portion (145) may further include a first deformation portion (145a), a second deformation portion (145b), and a flat portion (145c). The first deformation portion (145a) may be positioned between the planar portion (145c) and the second unbendable portion (142), and the second deformation portion (145b) may be positioned between the planar portion (145c) and the third unbendable portion (143). The planar portion (145c) may be positioned between the first deformation portion (145a) and the second deformation portion (145b). The planar portion (145c) may be supported by a support plate that is distinct from the hinge plates of the second hinge structure (160). Regardless of the state of the electronic device (100), the planar portion (145c) may remain flat. The first deformation part (145a) and the second deformation part (145b) are unfolded in the first state (100a) and the third state (100c), and in the second state (100b), the first deformation part (145a) and the second deformation part (145b) can be folded so that the second unbendable part (142) and the third unbendable part (143) face in different directions.

[0381] In the second state (100b), the first housing part (110) may be positioned between the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130). In the second state (100b), the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) positioned on the second hinge structure (160) may partially face the side (110c) of the first housing part (110).

[0382] The first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide a third state (100c) of the electronic device (100). In the third state (100c), the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140) may face the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140), and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) may face the same direction as the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140). For example, the second unbendable portion (142) and the third unbendable portion (143) may be positioned substantially on the same horizontal plane.

[0383] In the third state (100c), the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) is bent by the first hinge structure (150), so that the first bendable portion (144) of the flexible display (140) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (141) of the flexible display (140) and the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) face in different directions.

[0384] In the third state (100c), the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) is maintained in an unfolded state by the second hinge structure (160), so that the second bendable portion (145) of the flexible display (140) can be unfolded such that the second unbendable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) and the third unbendable portion (143) of the flexible display (140) face each other in the same direction.

[0385] The display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may include a first display area (140a), a second display area (140b), and a third display area (140c). The display area represents an area capable of providing visual information from the flexible display (140). In a first state (100a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may be visible from the front of the housing structure (101). For example, in a first state (100a), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may be visually exposed. The electronic device (100) may provide a large display area to the user that includes the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c).

[0386] In the second state (100b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may not be visible. For example, in the second state (100b), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may not be visually exposed.

[0387] In the third state (100c), the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may be partially visible from the front of the third housing part (130). For example, the third unbendable part (143) may be visually exposed, while the first display area (140a) and the second display area (140b) may not be visually exposed.

[0388] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (140) is used to display a screen within a first state (100a) of the electronic device (100), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may be activated. In a non-limiting example, within a second state (100b) of the electronic device (100), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may be deactivated. In a non-limiting example, within a third state (100c) of the electronic device (100), when the flexible display (140) is used to display a screen, the third display area (140c) is activated, and the first display area (140a) and the second display area (140b) of the flexible display (140) may be deactivated.

[0389] In a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (140) is used to display a screen within a first state (100a) of the electronic device (100), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may display visual information. In a non-limiting example, within a second state (100b), the first display area (140a), the second display area (140b), and the third display area (140c) of the flexible display (140) may provide a black image. As a non-limiting example, in a third state (100c) of the electronic device (100), when the flexible display (140) is used to display a screen, the third display area (140c) provides visual information, and the first display area (140a) and the second display area (140b) of the flexible display (140) may provide a black image.

[0390] The methods according to the various embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be implemented in the form of an application that can be installed on an existing electronic device.

[0391] The methods according to the various embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be implemented by software upgrades or hardware upgrades alone for existing electronic devices.

[0392] The various embodiments of the present disclosure described above may also be performed through an embedded server equipped in an electronic device, or through an external server among at least one of the electronic device and the display device.

[0393] According to a specific example of the present disclosure, the various embodiments described above may be implemented as software comprising instructions stored on a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a computer). The machine may include an electronic device according to the disclosed embodiments, which is a device capable of calling instructions stored from the storage medium and operating according to the called instructions. When instructions are executed by a processor, the processor may perform a function corresponding to the instructions directly or by using other components under the control of the processor. Instructions may include code generated or executed by a compiler or an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, "non-transitory" means only that the storage medium does not contain a signal and is tangible, and does not distinguish whether data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily in the storage medium.

[0394] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the method according to the various embodiments described above may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or online through an application store. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created in a storage medium such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0395] Each component (e.g., module or program) according to the various embodiments described above may be composed of a single or multiple entities, and some of the aforementioned sub-components may be omitted, or other sub-components may be additionally included in the various embodiments. Generally or additionally, some components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single entity to perform the functions performed by each of the respective components prior to integration in the same or similar manner. The operations performed by the module, program, or other components according to the various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations added.

[0396] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. It is understood that various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An electronic device comprising a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel, Memory for storing instructions; A display comprising a first region corresponding to the first panel, a second region corresponding to the second panel, and a third region corresponding to the third panel; and at least one processor including processing circuitry; and When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device, Control the display to display content in the first content area, and When a first user input touching the first area and a second user input touching the third area are received, a first rotation angle corresponding to the first panel and a second rotation angle corresponding to the third panel are obtained, and An electronic device that provides a touch disable UI based on the first user input and the second user input when the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle.

2. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device, If the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, a first target area corresponding to the first user input among the first areas is identified, and a second target area corresponding to the second user input among the third areas is identified. An electronic device that provides the touch disable UI to the first target area and the second target area.

3. In Paragraph 2, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device, Identify the first size of the first target area and the second size of the second target area, and Identifying a second content area by changing the size of the first content area based on the first size and the second size, and An electronic device that controls the display to display the content in the second content area.

4. In Paragraph 2, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device, An electronic device that controls a touch sensor so that a touch is not recognized with respect to the first target area and the second target area.

5. In Paragraph 2, The above touch disable UI is, An electronic device having a UI that indicates disabling touch of the first target area and the second target area.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above touch disable UI is, An electronic device having a UI that displays a pattern previously set in the first target area and the second target area.

7. In Paragraph 3, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device, After providing the above touch disable UI, when a threshold time has elapsed, a third rotation angle corresponding to the first panel and a fourth rotation angle corresponding to the third panel are obtained, and An electronic device that provides the touch disable UI based on the third rotation angle and the fourth rotation angle.

8. In Paragraph 7, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device, Identifying a third target area of ​​a third size by changing the first size of the first target area based on the third rotation angle, and Identifying a fourth target area of ​​a fourth size by changing the second size of the second target area based on the fourth rotation angle, and An electronic device that provides the touch disable UI to the third target area and the fourth target area.

9. In Paragraph 8, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device, Identifying a third content area by changing the size of the second content area based on the third size of the third target area and the fourth size of the fourth target area, and An electronic device that displays the content in the third content area.

10. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device, Acquiring the first pressure of the above first user input, Acquiring the second pressure of the above second user input, An electronic device that obtains the first rotation angle and the second rotation angle when the first pressure and the second pressure are greater than or equal to a critical pressure.

11. A method for controlling an electronic device comprising a display including a first area corresponding to a first panel, a second area corresponding to a second panel, and a third area corresponding to a third panel. A step of displaying content in a first content area; When a first user input touching the first area and a second user input touching the third area are received, a step of obtaining a first rotation angle corresponding to the first panel and a second rotation angle corresponding to the third panel; and A control method comprising the step of providing a touch disable UI based on the first user input and the second user input when the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle.

12. In Paragraph 11, The step of providing the above-mentioned touch disable UI is, If the first rotation angle is greater than or equal to the first threshold angle and the second rotation angle is less than or equal to the second threshold angle, a first target area corresponding to the first user input among the first areas is identified, and a second target area corresponding to the second user input among the third areas is identified. A control method that provides the touch disable UI to the first target area and the second target area.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above control method is, A step of identifying a first size of a first target area and a second size of a second target area; A step of identifying a second content area by changing the size of the first content area based on the first size and the second size; and A control method comprising the step of displaying the content in the second content area.

14. In Paragraph 12, The step of providing the above-mentioned touch disable UI is, A control method for controlling a touch sensor so that a touch is not recognized with respect to the first target area and the second target area.

15. In Paragraph 12, The above touch disable UI is, A control method, which is a UI indicating that the touch of the first target area and the second target area is disabled.

Images