Electronic device for storing external electronic device

An electronic device including a housing configured to accommodate a first portion of a bracket, the bracket defining a second portion having seating space in which the at least one earbud is at least partially accommodated; and a cover rotatably connected to the housing and configured to cover the second portion of the bracket, a third portion of the bracket being exposed to an exterior of the housing while covering an edge portion of the housing, the third portion includes at least one protrusion protruding inward toward the edge of the housing, the edge portion of the housing includes at least one groove, corresponding to the at least one protrusion and providing a space in which the at least one protrusion is movable, and the bracket transitions between a first position and a second position depending on positions of the at least one groove and the at least one protrusion.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The disclosure relates to an electronic device for storing an external electronic device, and more particularly to an electronic device (e.g., a charging case) for housing at least audio output device (e.g., an earbud or an in-ear headphone) when not in use.

Description of Related Art

A wireless sound output device (e.g., earbuds) is configured to receive audio data from an electronic device such as a smartphone through wireless communication. The wireless sound output device may be provided with a battery for providing necessary power since it does not include a cable for electrical connection. In addition, the wireless sound output device may be easily lost while not in use due to its relatively small size.

To solve this problem, the wireless sound output device may be stored in a separate electronic device to prevent loss while not in use, and charging of the battery may be possible in the state in which the wireless sound output device is stored in the electronic device. For example, the wireless sound output device may be stored by being inserted at least partially in a recess provided in the electronic device, and charging may be performed by bringing a conductive pin provided in the recess into contact with a conductive pin of the wireless sound output device.

As the recess of the electronic device is provided deeper and a portion of the wireless sound output device to be inserted into the recess increases, the wireless sound output device may be stably stored in the recess of the electronic device.

Magnets may be used to stably store the wireless sound output device in the recess of the electronic device while maintaining electrical contact for charging. For example, by disposing at least one magnet in each of the wireless sound output device and the electronic device, and implementing the magnets, at least one of which is disposed in each of the wireless sound device and the electronic device, to attract each other, the wireless sound output device may be more firmly seated in the recess and the electrical contact between the electronic device and the wireless sound output device may be stably maintained.

As the portion of the wireless sound output device inserted into the recess increases, the portion exposed to the exterior may decrease. It may be difficult for a user to hold a portion of the wireless sound output device exposed to the exterior with a finger, and it may be difficult to take out the wireless sound output device from the recess.

As the magnetic property for maintaining the electrical contact between the electronic device and the wireless sound output device is stronger, the wireless sound output device is seated more strongly in the recess, so it may be difficult for a user to take out the wireless sound output device from the recess.

The foregoing section of this document introduces information about and/or from the art that may provide context for or be related to the subject matter described herein and/or claimed below. It provides background information to facilitate a better understanding of the certain aspects of the that which is claimed below. This is a discussion of “related” art. That such art is related in no way implies that it is also “prior” art. The related art may or may not be prior art. The discussion in this section of this document is to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

The foregoing section of this document introduces information about and/or from the art that may provide context for or be related to the subject matter described herein and/or claimed below. It provides background information to facilitate a better understanding of the certain aspects of the that which is claimed below. This is a discussion of “related” art. That such art is related in no way implies that it is also “prior” art. The related art may or may not be prior art. The discussion in this section of this document is to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

SUMMARY

An electronic device according to an embodiment may include: a structure that is configured to weaken a magnetic force acting between an external electronic device (e.g., a wireless sound output device, for example an earbud) and the electronic device (for example, the charging case for the earbud). As a result, removal of the external electronic device from the electronic device may be facilitated.

An electronic device according to an embodiment may be configured to facilitate separation of an external electronic device (e.g., an earbud) from the electronic device (e.g., a charging case) by changing the direction of a magnetic force acting between the external electronic device and the electronic device.

In an embodiment, an electronic device for accommodating at least one earbud may include: a housing configured to accommodate a first portion of a bracket, the bracket defining a second portion having seating space in which the at least one earbud is at least partially accommodated; and a cover rotatably connected to the housing and configured to cover the second portion of the bracket, wherein a third portion of the bracket is exposed to an exterior of the housing while covering an edge portion of the housing, the third portion includes at least one protrusion that protrudes inward toward the edge of the housing, the edge portion of the housing includes at least one groove, which corresponds to the at least one protrusion and provides a space in which the at least one protrusion is movable, and the bracket transitions between a first position and a second position depending on positions of the at least one groove and the at least one protrusion.

In an embodiment, an electronic device for accommodating at least one earbud may include: a housing configured to provide at least one recess in which at least a portion of the at least one earbud is accommodated, wherein the housing includes an opening providing a space through which a magnetic switch is movable; the magnetic switch disposed within the housing and including a first magnet, wherein the magnetic switch passes through the opening such that a portion of the magnetic switch is exposed to exterior of the housing; and a cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to cover a space defined by the at least one recess, wherein the first magnet overlaps a second magnet included in the at least one earbud in a state in which the at least one earbud is accommodated in the at least one recess, and the magnetic switch may be configured to transition between a first position and a second position through the opening such that the first magnet and the second magnet define an overlapping region that varies as the magnetic switch transitions between the first position and the second position and therebetween.

According to an embodiment, a case for accommodating a wireless sound output device may include: a housing configured to provide a recess in which at least a portion of the wireless sound output device is accommodated, wherein the housing includes a first opening and a second opening aligned with the first opening and provided in the recess; and a pop-up switch passing through the first opening and disposed within the housing to be aligned with the second opening, the pop-up switch being actuatable to transition between a first state in which the pop-up switch is in a first position relative to a length of the second opening and a second state in which the pop-up switch is in a second position relative to the length of the second opening, wherein the pop-up switch protrudes into the recess through the second opening in response to a user input such that the pop-up switch transitions from the first state to the second state, wherein in the second state at least a portion of the wireless sound output device pops up out of the recess.

These and other aspects of the disclosure are described hereinbelow with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring toFIGS.1A and1B, the electronic device100according to an embodiment may include a housing110, a connection portion140, and a cover120.

The housing110according to an embodiment may include a body111having a predetermined shape and a bracket112coupled to the body111.

In an embodiment, the bracket112may be coupled to the body111. The bracket112may be coupled to the body111to cover at least a portion of an outer surface1111of the body111. In an embodiment, the bracket112may be coupled to the body111to be transitionable or movable in the height direction h of the housing110. In order for the bracket112to be movable in the height direction h of the housing110, the bracket112may include at least one protrusion (e.g., the at least one protrusion312inFIG.3) and the body111may include at least one groove (e.g., the at least one groove311inFIG.3) corresponding to the at least one protrusion.

In an embodiment, a top surface of the casing1121of the bracket112may be exposed to the exterior when the cover120in the open state.

According to an embodiment, the housing110may include at least one recess1122provided on the top surface of the casing1121of the bracket112and configured to accommodate at least a portion of an external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device200inFIG.2A).

According to an embodiment, the cover120may be coupled to the housing110to be capable of being opened and closed in a predetermined angle by the connection portion140.

In an embodiment, the cover120may include an upper cover121and a lower cover122including a facing surface1221configured to face the top surface of the casing1121of the housing110. In another embodiment, the upper cover121and the lower cover122of the cover120may be integrally configured.

In an embodiment, the lower cover122may include an accommodation groove1222corresponding to the recess1122of the bracket112. In an embodiment, the accommodation groove1222may overlap the recess1122in the state in which the cover120is closed. In an embodiment, the accommodation groove1222may have a depth capable of accommodating a portion of the external electronic device that protrudes from the housing110in the state in which the external electronic device is accommodated in the recess1122of the housing110.

According to an embodiment, the connection portion140may couple the housing110and the cover120to be rotatable about the illustrated X axis. For example, the connection portion140may be coupled to the body111of the housing110so as not to interfere with the moving operation of the bracket112, and the body111and the cover120may be rotatable about the connection portion140. In an embodiment, the connection portion140may include a hinge structure. In another embodiment, the connection portion140may be configured integrally with the body111or the cover120.

The electronic device100according to an embodiment may include at least one conductive pin1123disposed in the recess1122of the housing110. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the at least one conductive pin1123may protrude from the housing110. In an embodiment, the at least one conductive pin1123may be disposed to face an external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device200inFIG.1D) accommodated in the recess1122. The electronic device100according to an embodiment may be electrically coupled or connected to the external electronic device via the at least one conductive pin1123. In an embodiment, the at least one conductive pin1123may include a detect pin that is configured to detect the mounting of the external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device200ofFIG.2A), a charging pin, a data communication pin, or a ground (GND) pin, but may alternatively include a different number or different types of pins. In an embodiment, the at least one conductive pin1123may include a pogo pin and/or an elastic C-clip, for example.

Referring toFIG.1B, the electronic device100according to an embodiment may include a connector port P disposed in the housing110. According to an embodiment, by being electrically connected to a connector of an external power supply, the connector port P may be used for charging the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device200inFIG.2A) accommodated in the recess1122via the conductive pin1123. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the connector port P may be used for data communication between the external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device200ofFIG.2A) accommodated in the recess1122and another external electronic device. In another embodiment, the connector port P may be omitted from the electronic device100. For example, the electronic device100may support wireless charging and wireless communication connection (e.g., BT) to replace the function of the connector port P.

FIG.2Aillustrates the electronic device100according to an embodiment in the state in which an external electronic device200is accommodated and the cover120is opened.

FIG.2Billustrates the electronic device100according to an embodiment in the state in which the external electronic device200is accommodated and the cover120is closed.

Referring toFIGS.2A and2B, the external electronic device200(e.g., earbuds) may be accommodated in a recess1122that is provided in the housing110. For example, the external electronic device200may be accommodated in a manner of being at least partially seated in the recess1122of the electronic device100.

In an embodiment, the external electronic device200may include a body210and an earpiece220disposed on at least one region of the body210.

In an embodiment, the external electronic device200may include at least one conductive connector221(e.g., a conductive terminal) disposed on the body210. The at least one conductive connector221may be disposed to correspond to the at least one conductive pin1123of the electronic device100. For example, the at least one conductive connector221of the external electronic device200may be disposed to contact the at least one conductive pin1123of the electronic device100in the state in which the external electronic device200is accommodated in the housing110. In an embodiment, when the external electronic device200is accommodated in the housing110and the cover120is closed, the at least one conductive connector221receives a pressure acting toward the at least one conductive connector221by the cover120so that the at least one conductive connector221and the at least one conductive pin1123configured to maintain a physical contact state therebetween.

In an embodiment, the top surface of the casing1121of the bracket112and a portion of the external electronic device200may be visible from the exterior in the state in which the cover120is opened.

In an embodiment, the cover120may cover the housing110such that the top surface of the casing1121of the bracket112and the external electronic device200are not visible from the exterior.

In an embodiment, each of the recess1122of the housing110and the accommodation groove1222of the cover120are not limited to any one embodiment in shape and/or size, and may have a suitable shape and/or size to accommodate the external electronic device200.

In an embodiment, the electronic device100may include a configuration necessary to maintain the housing110and the cover120in the fully closed state.

For example, the electronic device100may include a locking protrusion1226disposed on the cover120, and the housing110may include a locking groove1126corresponding to the locking protrusion1226. Since the locking protrusion1226and the locking groove1126may be engaged with each other, the electronic device100according to an embodiment may maintain the housing110and the cover120in the fully closed state.

As another example, the electronic device100may include a cover magnet1227disposed in the cover120and a housing magnet1127disposed at a position corresponding to the cover magnet1227in the housing110. Since the cover magnet1227and the housing magnet1127, which are disposed to face each other with opposite polarities, attract each other, the electronic device100according to an embodiment is configured to maintain the state in which the housing110and the cover120are fully closed.

In an embodiment, the bracket112may be provided with a protrusion113on one side thereof. The protrusion113may have a size suitable to be held with a user's finger.

FIG.3is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device100according to an embodiment in the state in which the external electronic device200is accommodated.

Reference numeral301ofFIG.3is an A-A′ cross-sectional view of the electronic device100illustrated inFIG.2B, and reference numeral302ofFIG.3is a B-B′ cross-sectional view of the electronic device100illustrated inFIG.3.

Referring toFIG.3, the electronic device100according to an embodiment may include a first magnet310.

In an embodiment, the first magnet310may be disposed inside the housing110. For example, the first magnet310may be disposed between the body111and the bracket112of the housing110.

In an embodiment, in the state in which the external electronic device200is accommodated in the electronic device100, the first magnet310may be placed to overlap a second magnet320of the external electronic device200. In an embodiment, in the state in which the external electronic device200is accommodated in the electronic device100, an attractive force may act between the first magnet310and the second magnet320, and the external electronic device200may be pulled toward the recess1122of the electronic device100.

In an embodiment, a portion of the bracket112may be accommodated in the body111, and a portion of the bracket112that is not accommodated in the body111may be exposed to the exterior while covering the rim of the body111. For example, a first portion112aof the bracket112may be accommodated in the body111, and a second portion112bof the bracket112may extend from the first portion112awhile covering a portion of the edge of the body111. The second portion112bof the bracket112may be visible from the exterior, and a portion of the edge of the body111surrounded by the second portion112bmay not be visible from the exterior. In an embodiment, since the second portion112bof the bracket112covers a portion of the body111, a step may be formed on the side surface1111of the housing110.

In an embodiment, the bracket112may include at least one protrusion312provided in the second portion112b. At least one protrusion312may protrude from the second portion112bof the bracket112toward the body111.

In an embodiment, the body111may include at least at least one groove311corresponding to the at least one protrusion312. In the state in which the bracket112and the body111are coupled to each other, the at least one protrusion312may be accommodated in the at least one groove311.

In an embodiment, the at least one groove311may provide a space in which the at least one protrusion312is movable. For example, the at least one groove311may extend by a predetermined length L along the circumference of the body111in the height direction, and the at least one protrusion312may move along the at least one groove311.

In an embodiment, the bracket112may move from the body111depending on the position of the at least one groove311.

In an embodiment, by the attractive force acting between the first magnet310and the second magnet320, the external electronic device200may be firmly stored in the recess1122of the electronic device100, and the at least one conductive connector221of the external electronic device200and the at least one conductive pin1221of the electronic device100may maintain a physical contact state therebetween. The first magnet310and the second magnet320may be determined to have an attractive force strong enough to fix the external electronic device200in the recess1122.

During use, for example, the user of the electronic device100may hold the external electronic device100with a finger of the user in the state in which the cover120is opened, and may take out the external electronic device200from the recess1122. The user of the electronic device200may take out the external electronic device200by applying a force stronger than the attractive force.

In an embodiment, as the attractive force acting between the electronic device100and the external electronic device200(e.g., the attractive force acting between the first magnet310and the second magnet320) is stronger, the external electronic device200may be more strongly fixed in the recess1122of the electronic device100. In addition, the reliability of the electrical connection between the electronic device100and the external electronic device200may be improved. In contrast, as the attractive force between the electronic device100and the external electronic device200is stronger, it may be difficult for the user of the electronic device100to take out the external electronic device200from the electronic device100.

FIG.4is a view illustrating an operation in which the bracket112of the electronic device100illustrated inFIG.3moves.

Referring toFIG.4, the bracket112including the at least one protrusion312is movable along the at least one groove311. For example, the bracket112is movable in a direction in which the at least one groove311extends (e.g., the +z-direction or the direction of directional arrow {circle around (1)}).

In an embodiment, since the external electronic device200is accommodated in the recess1122of the bracket112, the distance between the first magnet310of the electronic device100and the second magnet320of the external electronic device200may vary depending on the movement of the bracket112. For example, as the bracket112moves in the direction of directional arrow {circle around (1)}), the first magnet310and the second magnet320may move away from each other.

In an embodiment, the attractive force that attracts the external electronic device200toward the recess1122of the electronic device100may vary depending on the distance between the first magnet310and the second magnet320. For example, as the first magnet310and the second magnet320move away from each other, the attractive force acting between the external electronic device200and the electronic device100may decrease. When the attractive force decreases, the user of the electronic device100may easily take out the external electronic device200from the recess1122.

In an embodiment, the position of the bracket112may be changed when the user directly applies an external force to the bracket112. In an embodiment, the bracket112may include a protrusion113for the user to conveniently move the bracket112. The user may the protrusion113with a finger and push up the bracket112.

Referring to reference numeral401, the bracket112may be in the first position. When the bracket112is located at the first position, the distance between the bracket112and the first magnet310may be a first distance.

Referring to reference numeral403, the bracket112may be in the second position. The bracket112may be spaced farther away from the body111when it is located at the second position than when it is located at the first position. When the bracket112is located at the second position, the distance between the bracket112and the first magnet310may be a second distance greater than the first distance. In an embodiment, when the bracket112is located at the second position, the distance and attractive force between the first magnet310and the second magnet320may be smaller than that when the bracket112is located at the first position.

In an embodiment, the bracket112is movable between the first position and the second position depending on the positions of the at least one groove311and the at least one protrusion312.

In an embodiment, the cover120may be rotated in response to the movement of the bracket112from the first position to the second position, and the cover120may remain closed or may be fully opened in response to the movement of the bracket112. For example, as illustrated by reference numeral403ofFIG.4, the cover120is rotated along the direction indicated by directional arrow {circle around (1)} by the flow of the bracket112, but may be maintained in a closed state. As another example, unlike the illustrated state, the cover120may be rotated in the direction indicated by directional arrow {circle around (1)} and fully opened by the movement of the bracket112. The electronic device100according to an embodiment may include a configuration that enables the cover120to be automatically opened when the cover120is rotated by the bracket112by a predetermined angle or more. For example, the configuration may include a torsion spring coupled to the connecting portion (e.g., the connecting portion140ofFIG.1A), but is not limited thereto, and various mechanisms available by those skilled in the art may be applied.

FIG.5is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of an electronic device100including a link member510according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.5, the electronic device100according to an embodiment may include a link member510.

In an embodiment, the link member510may be coupled to the cover120, and may extend from a coupling portion511of the cover120to the interior of the housing110by a predetermined length. The link member510may include a bent portion in one region, but is not limited thereto. For example, the link member510may be configured in a bar type in which no bent portion is provided.

In an embodiment, the link member510may move in response to the opening/closing operation of the cover120. For example, when the cover120is opened, the coupling portion511of the cover120may be rotated at an angle corresponding to the rotation angle of the cover120, and the link member510connected to the coupling portion511may be moved in the direction indicated by directional arrow {circle around (1)} in response to the rotation of the coupling portion511.

In an embodiment, the bracket112may be moved in response to the operation of the link member510. For example, the link member510may be moved in response to the operation of the cover120, and the bracket112may be moved in the direction indicated by directional arrow while being pushed up by the link member510.

In an embodiment, when the cover120is in the closed state (501), the bracket112may be located at the first position, and when the cover120is in the fully opened state (503), the bracket112may be located at the second position moved in the direction indicated by directional arrow {circle around (1)} from the first position. In an embodiment, the cover120is movable between the closed state (501) and the fully opened state (503). The link member510is movable to correspond to the opened angle of the cover120. The bracket112is movable between the first position and the second position in response to the movement of the cover120and the link member510.

In an embodiment, as described above with reference toFIG.4, when the bracket112is located at the first position, the distance between the bracket112and the first magnet310of the electronic device100may be the first distance, and when the bracket112is located at the second position, the distance between the bracket112and the first magnet310may be the second distance greater than the first distance. In an embodiment, when the bracket112is located at the second position, the distance and attractive force between the first magnet310of the electronic device100and the second magnet320of the external electronic device200may be smaller than that when the bracket112is located the first position.

The electronic device100according to an embodiment may firmly store the external electronic device200in the recess1122in the state in which the cover120is closed (501), and may allow the user of the electronic device100to easily take out the cover120when the cover is in the fully opened state (503).

In an embodiment, the user of the electronic device100may move the bracket112only with the operation of opening/closing the cover120without applying an external force directly to the bracket112, unlike the example illustrated inFIG.4. Since the bracket112is movable in response to the operation of the link member510cooperating with the cover120rather than an external force directly applied from the user, the protrusion113for allowing the user to easily move the bracket112may not be provided.

In an embodiment, the link member510may be replaced with the link member610ofFIG.6.

The description provided with reference toFIGS.1to4is equally applicable to the electronic device100illustrated inFIG.6in the same manner, except that the electronic device100illustrated inFIG.6further includes a link member610.

FIG.6is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device100including a link member610according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.6, the electronic device100according to an embodiment may include a link member610.

In an embodiment, the link member610may include a first member611, a second member612, and a third member613. One end of the first member611may be coupled to the cover120, and the other end of the first member611may be coupled to the second member612. One end of the second member612may be coupled to the first member611, and the other end of the second member612may come into contact with the bracket112. The first member611or the second member612may pass through a guide hole614provided in the third member613.

In an embodiment, the link member610is movable in response to the opening/closing operation of the cover120, and the bracket112is movable in response to the operation of the link member610. For example, when the cover120is changed from the closed state (601) to the open state (603), the bracket112is movable from the first position to the second position. For example, while the cover120is opened, the first member611connected to the cover120is movable along the guide hole614in the third member613(e.g., in the direction indicated by directional arrow {circle around (2)}), and the second member612connected to the first member611is movable toward the bracket112(e.g., e.g., in the direction indicated by directional {circle around (1)}) in response to the operation of the first member612. The third member613, which is in contact with the bracket112, may push up the bracket112in the direction indicated by directional arrow {circle around (1)} in response to the opening operation of the cover120.

In an embodiment, the link member610and the bracket112are movable between the first position and the second position. As described above with reference toFIG.4, when the bracket112is located at the first position, the distance between the bracket112and the first magnet310of the electronic device100may be the first distance, and when the bracket112is located at the second position, the distance between the bracket112and the first magnet310may be the second distance greater than the first distance. In an embodiment, when the bracket112is located at the second position, the distance and attractive force between the first magnet310of the electronic device100and the second magnet320of the external electronic device200may be smaller than that when the bracket112is located the first position.

The description provided with reference toFIG.5is applicable to the electronic device100illustrated inFIG.6in the same manner, except that the link member510ofFIG.5is replaced with the link member610.

FIG.7illustrates an electronic device700according to another embodiment.

The description provided with reference toFIGS.1A,1B,2A, and2Bmay be applicable to the components of the electronic device700ofFIG.7having the same reference numerals as those ofFIG.1in the same or corresponding manner.

Referring toFIG.7, the electronic device700according to an embodiment may include a housing710.

In an embodiment, the housing710may include a body711and a bracket712. The body711may define a side surface1111of the housing110, and the bracket712may define a top surface of the casing1121of the housing110.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the bracket712may be accommodated in the space defined by the body711.

Unlike the electronic device100ofFIG.1, the bracket712of the electronic device700illustrated inFIG.7does not cover a portion of the side surface1111of the body711, so no step may be provided on the side surface1111of the housing710.

Since the electronic device700according to an embodiment does not include the at least one protrusion312and the at least one groove311illustrated inFIG.3, the bracket712may not be movable unlike the bracket112.

FIG.8Aillustrates an electronic device700including a magnetic switch800according to an embodiment.FIG.8Billustrates an electronic device700including a first magnetic switch800L and a second magnetic switch800R, according to an embodiment. Reference numeral801inFIG.8Aillustrates a first state in which the magnetic switch800has not been pressed such that the magnetic switch is in a retracted position relative to a length of opening811, and reference numeral803inFIG.8Aillustrates a second state in which the magnetic switch800has been pressed such that it has transitioned to an extended position relative to the length of the opening811in which the magnetic switch800disposed.

Referring toFIG.8A, the electronic device700according to an embodiment may include a magnetic switch800.

In an embodiment, the magnetic switch800may include a link member810and a first magnet820.

In an embodiment, the link member810may be inserted into the opening811provided in the body711. The opening811may provide a space through which the link member810is movable. One end of the link member810may be exposed to the exterior of the housing710through the opening811, and the other end of the link member810may be coupled to the first magnet820.

In an embodiment, the first magnet820may include a first portion821and a second portion822.

In the first state in which the magnetic switch800is not pressed (801), the first portion821of the first magnet820may face a second magnet840(e.g., the second magnet320inFIG.3) of the external electronic device200that is accommodated in the second bracket721. The first portion821of the first magnet820may have a pole opposite to that of the second magnet840of the external electronic device200, and the first portion821of the first magnet820may attract the second magnet840. The external electronic device200may be attracted to the bracket712by the first portion821of the first magnet820and the second magnet840, and the electronic device700may firmly store the external electronic device200in a recess (e.g., the recess1122inFIG.1). The position of the magnetic switch800in the first state (801) may be referred to as a first position.

In the second state in which the magnetic switch800is pressed (803), the second portion822of the magnetic switch800may face the second magnet840of the external electronic device200accommodated in the bracket712. The second portion822of the first magnet820may have the same pole as the second magnet840, and a repulsive force may act between the second portion822of the first magnet820and the second magnet840. By the second portion822of the first magnet820and the second magnet840, the external electronic device200may be pushed in a direction away from the bracket712, and the user may easily take out the external electronic device200from recess1122. The position of the magnetic switch800in the second state (803) may be referred to as a second position.

In an embodiment, the magnetic switch800may move between the first position and the second position in response to a user input.

Referring toFIG.8B, the magnetic switch800according to an embodiment may be disposed to correspond to the external electronic device200. For example, when a first external electronic device200L and a second external electronic device200R are accommodated in the electronic device700, the magnetic switch800may include a first magnetic switch800L corresponding to the external electronic device200L and a second magnetic switch800R corresponding to the second external electronic device200R.

In an embodiment, the first magnetic switch800L and the second magnetic switch800R may partially protrude to the exterior of the housing710so that the user is capable of the magnetic switches.

In an embodiment, the user of the electronic device700may selectively operate the first magnetic switch800L and/or the second magnetic switch800R, and the user may easily take out the first external electronic device200L and/or the second external electronic device200R through the above-described manipulation.

AlthoughFIGS.8A and8Bhave been described with reference to the electronic device700, the description is also applicable to the electronic device100illustrated inFIGS.1A and1Bin the same or corresponding manner.

In an embodiment, the magnetic switch800may be replaced with a magnetic switch900illustrated inFIGS.9A to9C.

FIG.9Aillustrates an electronic device700according to an embodiment including the magnetic switch900at a first position.

FIG.9Billustrates an electronic device700according to an embodiment including the magnetic switch900at a second position.

FIG.9Cillustrates the electronic device700according to an embodiment including the magnetic switch900at a third position.

Referring toFIG.9A, the electronic device700according to an embodiment may include the magnetic switch900.

In an embodiment, the magnetic switch900may be disposed within the housing710. For example, the magnetic switch900may be disposed between the body711and the bracket712. A portion of the magnetic switch900may pass through an opening911provided in the body711to be exposed to the exterior of the housing710.

In an embodiment, the magnetic switch900may include a link member910, a first magnet920, and a second magnet930.

In an embodiment, the first end of the link member910may be disposed outside the housing710. The link member910may extend from the first end and pass through the opening911. The link member910may extend into the housing710through the opening911. The link member910may extend in different directions within the housing710. For example, a second end of the link member910may extend toward the first external electronic device200L, and a third end of the link member910may extend toward the second external electronic device200R. A first magnet920may be coupled to the second end, and a second magnet930may be coupled to the third end.

In an embodiment, the first magnet920may correspond to the first external electronic device200L. For example, the first magnet920may overlap the third magnet941of the first external electronic device200L in the state in which the first external electronic device200L is accommodated.

In an embodiment, the second magnet930may correspond to the second external electronic device200R. For example, the second magnet930may overlap the fourth magnet942of the second external electronic device200R in the state in which the second external electronic device200R is accommodated.

In an embodiment, the first magnet920may include a first portion921and a second portion922. The first portion921of the first magnet920may have a pole opposite to that of the third magnet941of the first external electronic device200L. The second portion922of the first magnet920may have a pole that is the same as that of the third magnet941of the first external electronic device200L. In an embodiment, the first portion921of the first magnet920may have a larger area than the second portion922. For example, the first portion921of the first magnet920may be longer than the second portion922.

In an embodiment, the second magnet930may include a first portion931and a second portion932. The first portion931of the second magnet930may have a pole opposite to that of the fourth magnet942of the second external electronic device200R. The second portion932of the second magnet930may have a pole that is the same as that of the fourth magnet942of the second external electronic device200R. In an embodiment, the first portion931of the second magnet930may have a larger area than the second portion932. For example, the first portion931of the second magnet930may be longer than the second portion932.

In an embodiment, the opening911may provide a space through which the link member910is movable. For example, the opening911may have a larger perimeter than the portion of the link member910that passes through the opening911, and the link member910may move within the opening911. The user may operate the magnetic switch900by moving a portion of the link member910exposed to the exterior of the housing710with a finger.

In an embodiment, the position of the magnetic switch900may be changed in response to the user's operation, and the positions of the first magnet920and the second magnet930of the magnetic switch900may be changed.

For example, referring toFIG.9A, the magnetic switch900may be at the first position.

At the first position, the link member910may be disposed within the center of the opening911.

At the first position, the first portion921of the first magnet920may face the third magnet941of the first external electronic device200L. Since the first portion921of the first magnet920and the third magnet941have different poles, the first external electronic device200L may be attracted toward the recess1122.

At the first position, the first portion921of the second magnet930may face the fourth magnet942of the second external electronic device200R. Since the first portion931of the second magnet930and the fourth magnet942have different poles, the second external electronic device200R may be attracted toward the recess1122.

As another example, referring toFIG.9B, the magnetic switch900according to an embodiment may be located at the second position.

At the second position, the magnetic switch900may be moved in a first direction (e.g., the L direction) from the first position.

At the second position, the link member910may be moved in the first direction (e.g., the L direction) from the first position.

At the second position, the second portion922of the first magnet920may face the third magnet941of the first external electronic device200L. Since the second portion922of the first magnet920and the third magnet941have the same pole as each other, the first external electronic device200L may be pushed in a direction away from the recess1122.

At the second position, the first portion931of the second magnet930may face the fourth magnet942of the second external electronic device200R. Since the first portion931of the second magnet930and the fourth magnet942have different poles, the second external electronic device200R may be attracted toward the recess1122.

The user may easily take out the first external electronic device200L from the recess1122by manipulating the magnetic switch900to the second position.

As another example, referring toFIG.9C, the magnetic switch900according to an embodiment may be located at the second position.

At the third position, the magnetic switch900may be transitioned or moved from in a second direction (e.g., the R direction) opposite to the first direction the first position.

At the third position, the link member910may be moved in the second direction (e.g., the direction indicated by directional arrow R) opposite to the first direction from the first position.

At the third position, the first portion921of the first magnet920may face the third magnet941of the first external electronic device200L. Since the first portion921of the first magnet920and the third magnet941have opposite poles, the first external electronic device200L may be attracted toward the recess1122.

At the third position, the second portion932of the second magnet930may face the fourth magnet942of the second external electronic device200R. Since the second portion932of the second magnet930and the fourth magnet942have the same pole as each other, the second external electronic device200R may be pushed in a direction away from the recess1122.

The user may easily take out the second external electronic device200R from the recess1122by manipulating the magnetic switch900to the third position.

In an embodiment, the magnetic switch900may be moved between the second position and the third position in response to a user input.

AlthoughFIGS.9A,9B, and9Chave been described with reference to the electronic device700, the description is also applicable to the electronic device100illustrated inFIGS.1A and1Bin the same or corresponding manner.

FIG.10illustrates an electronic device700including a pop-up switch1020according to an embodiment.

FIG.11is a view illustrating the operation of the pop-up switch1020according to an embodiment.

FIG.12illustrates an electronic device700including a first pop-up switch1020L and a second pop-up switch1020R according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.10, the electronic device700may include a pop-up switch1020. The pop-up switch1020may be disposed within the housing710, and may pass through a first opening1011provided in the body711and a second opening1012provided in the bracket712. The second opening1012may be aligned with the first opening1011.

In an embodiment, the pop-up switch1020may protrude into the recess1122through the second opening1012in response to a user input. For example, when the user presses the pop-up switch1020, a portion of the pop-up switch1020may be exposed to the exterior of the second opening1012toward the recess1122. In the state in which the external electronic device200is accommodated in the recess1122, the position of the external electronic device200may be changed in response to the operation of the pop-up switch1020. For example, due to the portion of the pop-up switch1020that protrudes to the exterior of the second opening1012, at least a portion of the external electronic device200may get (or pop-up) out of the recess1122. When the external electronic device200gets out of the recess1122, the position of the external electronic device200may move away from the bracket712. When the external electronic device200moves away from the bracket712, the distance between the first magnet310in the housing710and the second magnet320of the external electronic device200may increase, and the attractive force between the first magnet310and the second magnet320may be weakened. When at least a portion of the external electronic device200gets out of the recess1122, the portion of the external electronic device200that is exposed to the exterior increases, so that the user may easily pick up the external electronic device200. The user of the electronic device700may easily take out the external electronic device200from the recess1122by manipulating the pop-up switch1020.

Referring toFIG.11, the pop-up switch1020may include a casing1121, a first member1131, a first elastic member1141, a second elastic member1142, and a second member1132. In an embodiment, the casing1121may accommodate the first member1131, the first elastic member1141, the second elastic member1142, and the second member1132. In an embodiment, the first member1131may be disposed in the casing1121and may pass through one end of the casing1121. A portion of the first member1131may be engaged with the one end of the casing1121. In an embodiment, the first elastic member1141may be disposed within the casing1121, and may be disposed between the first member1131and the second member1132. In an embodiment, the second member1132may be disposed within the casing1121, and may pass through the other end of the casing1121that is opposite to the one end of the casing1121in which the first member1131is disposed. The second member1132may be disposed such that a portion thereof is engaged with the other end of the casing1121. In an embodiment, the second elastic member1142may be disposed within the casing1121and may surround the second member1132. In an embodiment, the first elastic member1141and the second elastic member1142may each include a spring, but are not limited thereto.

Referring to reference numeral1101ofFIG.11, the pop-up switch1020may be in a state in which it is not operated by a user.

Referring to reference numeral1103ofFIG.11, when the first member1131is pressed, the first member1131may move toward the interior of the casing1121. As the first member1131moves, the first elastic member1141may be pressed.

Referring to reference numeral1105ofFIG.11, the pressed first elastic member1141may apply a pressure to the second member1132while being restored. For example, in the state in which an external force pressing the first member1131is maintained, the force to restore the pressed first elastic member1141may be applied toward the second member1132. The second member1132may be moved in a first direction toward the exterior of the casing1121by the first elastic member1141. The first direction may be the direction from the first opening1011toward the second opening1012inFIG.10. As illustrated inFIG.10, the second member1132may push the external electronic device200. As the second member1132moves toward the exterior of the casing1121, the second elastic member1142may be pressed.

Referring to the reference numeral1107ofFIG.11, while the pressed second elastic member1142is restored, the second member1132moved in the direction (the first direction) toward the exterior of the casing1121may return to its original position. For example, the second member1132may be moved in the second direction opposite to the first direction by the restoring force of the second elastic member1142.

Referring toFIG.12, the pop-up switch1020according to an embodiment may be disposed to correspond to an external electronic device200. For example, when the first external electronic device200L and the second external electronic device200R are accommodated in the electronic device700, the pop-up switch1020may include a first pop-up switch1020L corresponding to the first external electronic device200L and a second pop-up switch1020R corresponding to the second external electronic device200R.

In an embodiment, the first pop-up switch1020L and the second pop-up switch1020R may partially protrude from the housing710to be easily pressed by the user.

In an embodiment, the user of the electronic device700may selectively operate the first pup-up switch1020L and/or the second pop-up switch1020R, and the user may easily take out the first external electronic device200L and/or the second external electronic device200R through the above-described manipulation.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device for accommodating a pair of earbuds may include: a housing configured to accommodate a first portion of a bracket; a bracket configured to provide a resting space in which the earbuds are at least partially accommodated; and a cover rotatably connected to the housing and configured to cover an upper portion of the bracket such that the seating space or the earbuds accommodated in the seating space are not exposed to exterior, wherein a second portion of the bracket may be exposed to the exterior of the housing while covering a portion of an edge of the housing, and may include at least one protrusion that protrudes inward toward the edge of the housing, the edge of the housing may be provided with at least one groove, which corresponds to the at least one protrusion and may provide a space in which the at least one protrusion is movable, and the bracket may be configured to move between a first position and a second position depending on positions of the at least one groove and the at least one protrusion.

The electronic device according to an embodiment may further include at least one first magnet disposed between the housing and the bracket, wherein the at least one first magnet may overlap at least one second magnet included in the earbuds in a state in which the earbuds are accommodated in the seating space of the bracket.

In an embodiment, the bracket may have a first distance from the at least one first magnet at the first position and a second distance greater than the first distance from the at least one first magnet at the second position.

In an embodiment, in the state in which the earbuds are at least partially accommodated in the seating space, the distance between the at least one first magnet and the at least one second magnet may be greater when the bracket is located at the second position than when the bracket is located at the first position.

In an embodiment, the at least one groove may extend along an edge of the housing in a height direction by a predetermined length.

In an embodiment, the at least one protrusion may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion provided at a position facing the first protrusion in the second portion of the bracket, and the at least one groove may include a first groove corresponding to the first protrusion and a second groove corresponding to the second protrusion.

The electronic device according to an embodiment may include a link member, wherein one end of the link member may be coupled to the cover, and extend to a space between the bracket and the housing from the one end.

In an embodiment, the link member may rotate around the one end in response to the opening/closing operation of the cover.

In an embodiment, the link member may push up the bracket such that the bracket moves from the first position to the second position in response to the operation of opening the cover.

In an embodiment, the link member may include at least one bent portion.

According to an embodiment, a case for accommodating at least one earbuds may include: a housing configured to provide at least one recess in which at least a portion of the at least one earbud is accommodated, wherein the housing includes an opening providing a space through which the magnetic switch is movable; the magnetic switch disposed within the housing and including a first magnet, wherein the magnetic switch passes through the opening such that a portion thereof is exposed to exterior of the housing; and a cover rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to cover the housing such that the at least one recess or the at least one earbud accommodated in the at least one recess is not exposed to the exterior, wherein the first magnet may overlap a second magnet included in the at least one earbud in a state in which the at least one earbud is accommodated in the at least one recess, and the magnetic switch may be configured to move between a first position and a second position through the opening such that an overlapping region between the first magnet and the second magnet varies.

In an embodiment, the first magnet may include a first portion and a second portion, and in the state in which the at least one earbud is accommodated in the at least one recess, the first portion of the first magnet overlaps the second magnet at the first position, and in the state in which the at least one earbud is accommodated in the at least one recess, the second portion of the first magnet may overlap the second magnet at the second position.

In an embodiment, the first portion of the first magnet may have an opposite pole to the second magnet such that they attract one another, and the second portion of the first magnet may have the same pole as the second magnet such that they repel one another.

In an embodiment, the magnetic switch may include a link member, a portion of the link member may be exposed to the exterior of the housing through the opening, and a remaining portion of the link member except for the portion extends from the portion to interior of the housing, and the first magnet may be coupled to the remaining portion of the link member.

In an embodiment, the at least one earbud may include a first earbud and a second earbud, the at least one recess may include a first recess in which the first earbud is seated and a second recess in which the second earbud is seated, the second magnet may be included in the first earbud, the magnetic switch includes a third magnet, and the magnetic switch may include a third magnet and may be configured to move between the first position and the second position such that an overlapping region between the third magnet and a fourth magnet included in the second earbud varies depending on the relative positioning of the magnets.

In an embodiment, the third magnet may include a third portion having a pole opposite to that of the fourth magnet and a fourth portion having the same pole as the fourth magnet, wherein, in the state in which the at least one earbud is accommodated in the at least one recess, the fourth portion of the third magnet overlaps the fourth magnet at the first position, and in the state in which the at least one earbud is accommodated in the at least one recess, the third portion of the third magnet overlaps the fourth magnet at the second position.

In an embodiment, the magnetic switch may include a link member, the first portion of the link member may be exposed to the exterior of the housing through the opening, the second portion of the link member may extend from the first portion toward the first recess, the third portion of the link member may extend from the first portion toward the second recess, the first magnet may be coupled to one end of the second portion, and the third magnet may be coupled to one end of the third portion.

According to an embodiment, a case for accommodating a wireless sound output device may include: a housing configured to provide a recess in which at least a portion of the wireless sound output device is accommodated, wherein the housing includes a first opening and a second opening aligned with the first opening and provided in the recess; and a pop-up switch passing through the first opening and disposed within the housing to be aligned with the second opening, wherein the pop-up switch may protrude into the recess through the second opening in response to a user input such that at least a portion of the wireless sound output device pops up out of the recess.

In an embodiment, the pop-up switch may include: a casing including a through hole; a first member disposed inside the casing to be engaged with one end of the through hole, wherein a portion of the first member is exposed to exterior of the housing; a second member disposed inside the casing to be engaged with another end of the through hole; a first elastic member disposed between the first member and the second member; and a second elastic member disposed in the casing and surrounding the second member.

In an embodiment, the first member may move in a first direction from the first opening toward the second opening in response to the user input, the first elastic member may be pressed by the first member moved in the first direction, the second member may be moved in the first direction by a restoring force of the pressed first elastic member, a portion of the second member may protrude into the recess through the second opening in a state of being moved in the first direction, the second elastic member may be pressed by the second member protruding in the first direction, and the second member may be moved in a second direction opposite to the first direction by a restoring force of the pressed second elastic member.

Although specific embodiments have been described in the detailed description of the disclosure, various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the disclosure should not be defined as being limited to the embodiments, but should be defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof