Electronic device having conductive exterior member and method for detecting leak current regarding same

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include a housing including a front plate, a back plate disposed to the opposite side of the front plate, and a side member surrounding a space between the front plate and the back plate, wherein at least a part of the back plate is constructed of a conductive material, and the side member includes an opening, a touch screen display disposed between the front plate and the back plate, a female connector disposed inside the opening, constructed to house a meal connector an external male connector, and including a plurality of pins, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) disposed inside the space and including a ground plane, a circuit electrically coupled to the ground plane and/or mounted thereon to cut off leak current from the PCB, a first conductive path constructed between the circuit and a first point of at least part of the back plate, and a second conductive path constructed between at least one of the pins and a second point of at least part of the back plate. In addition, various other embodiments are also possible.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a 371 of International Application No. PCT/KR2018/009576 filed on Aug. 21, 2018, which claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2017-0105966 filed on Aug. 22, 2017, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Various embodiments of the disclosure relate to a method of detecting and preventing leakage current in an electronic device having a conductive exterior member.

2. DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

With the development of digital technologies, electronic devices are provided in various forms, such as a smart phone, a tablet Personal Computer (PC), a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), or the like. The electronic device is also developed such that it is worn by a user to improve portability and user accessibility.

The electronic device may include a housing constituting at least part of an exterior. An electronic device to which a metallic housing is applied may provide a metal-specific luxurious design, compared to an electronic device to which a plastic housing is applied. In addition, since a metallic material applied to the housing also has effect on durability, the electronic device to which the metallic housing is applied is becoming more popular.

In an electronic device having a conductive exterior member (e.g., metal), current may be leaked to the conductive exterior member. The current leaked to the conductive exterior member flows to a human body of a user who carries the electronic device, and the current passing through the human body may cause reactions (or symptoms) of the human body. Unintended high-voltage Alternating Current (AC) current may be supplied from an external power device to the electronic device due to a defect or breakage of an external device (e.g., a charging device) for charging a battery of the electronic device. For another example, unintended Direct Current (DC) over-current output from the electronic device may be leaked to the conductive exterior member. Although the conductive exterior member may be designed to include an insulating material coated on a surface thereof, when the conductive exterior member is aged or broken, leakage current may flow from the conductive exterior member to the human body.

The electronic device may include elements for preventing the current from being leaked to the conductive exterior member. In order to test whether the elements normally operate, an external test device may be coupled to a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) on which the elements are mounted. The external test device may apply impact (or pressure) to the PCB during the test process, which may lead to a damage on the PCB. In addition, when the conductive exterior member is designed as an element which is difficulty detached from the electronic device, it may be difficult to couple the external test device to the PCB of the electronic device which is a final product.

Various embodiments of the disclosure may provide an apparatus supporting for easy detection of current leaked to a conductive exterior member of an electronic device, the electronic device including the apparatus, and a method of detecting the leakage current.

Various embodiments of the disclosure may provide an apparatus designed such that an external test device can be coupled to a leakage current cutoff circuit of an electronic device without having to detach the conductive exterior member from the electronic device, the electronic device including the apparatus, and a method of detecting the leakage current.

SUMMARY

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may include a housing including a front plate, a back plate disposed to the opposite side of the front plate, and a side member surrounding a space between the front plate and the back plate, wherein at least a part of the back plate is constructed of a conductive material, and the side member includes an opening, a touch screen display disposed between the front plate and the back plate, a female connector disposed inside the opening, constructed to house a meal connector an external male connector, and including a plurality of pins, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) disposed inside the space and including a ground plane, a circuit electrically coupled to the ground plane and/or mounted thereon to cut off leak current from the PCB, a first conductive path constructed between the circuit and a first point of at least part of the back plate, and a second conductive path constructed between at least one of the pins and a second point of at least part of the back plate.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an electronic device may include a housing including a front plate, a back plate disposed to the opposite side of the front plate, and a side member surrounding a space between the front plate and the back plate, wherein at least a part of the back plate is constructed of a conductive material, and the side member includes an opening, a touch screen display disposed between the front plate and the back plate, a PCB disposed inside the space and including a ground plane, a first circuit electrically coupled to the ground plane and/or mounted thereon to cut off leak current from the PCB, a conductive path constructed between the first circuit and a first point of at least part of the back plate, a second circuit electrically coupled with the ground plane and a second point of at least part of the back plate to detect leakage current which flows from the PCB to the back plate, a female connector disposed inside the opening, constructed to house an external male connector, and including a plurality of pins, and a processor electrically coupled with the second circuit and the female connector. The process may transmit intensity of leakage current detected by the second circuit to the male connector connected to the female connector.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, a method of detecting leakage current cutoff performance for an electronic device having a conductive exterior member may include detecting current leaked through a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector of the electronic device, and recognizing that performance for cutting off current leaked to the conductive exterior member is in a deterioration state if the detected current exceeds a threshold.

Various embodiments of the disclosure can easily detect whether leakage current cutoff performance of an electronic device deteriorates, by connecting an external electronic device to a connector prepared to an exterior of the electronic device. According to various embodiments, whether a leakage current cutoff circuit of the electronic device deteriorates can be detected without having to detach the conductive exterior member from the electronic device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be appreciated that this is not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for an embodiment of the disclosure. With regard to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. A singular expression includes a plural concept unless there is a contextually distinctive difference therebetween. In the disclosure, an expression “A or B”, “A and/or B”, or the like may include all possible combinations of items enumerated together. Although expressions such as “1st”, “2nd”, “first”, and “second” may be used to express corresponding components, it is not intended to limit the corresponding components. When a certain (e.g., 1st) component is mentioned as being “operatively or communicatively coupled with/to” or “connected to” a different (e.g., 2nd) component, the certain component is directly coupled with/to another component or can be coupled with/to the different component via another (e.g., 3rd) component.

An expression “configured to” used in the present document may be interchangeably used with, for example, “suitable for”, “having the capacity to”, “adapted to”, “made to”, “capable of”, or “designed to” in a hardware or software manner according to a situation. In a certain situation, an expressed “a device configured to” may imply that the device is “capable of” together with other devices or components. For example, “a processor configured to perform A, B, and C” may imply a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing a corresponding operation or a generic-purpose processor (e.g., Central Processing Unit (CPU) or an application processor) capable of performing corresponding operations by executing one or more software programs stored in a memory device.

In various embodiments, the wearable device may include at least one of an accessory-type device (e.g., a watch, a ring, a bracelet, an anklet, a necklace, glasses, contact lenses, or a Head-Mounted Device (HMD)), a fabric- or clothes-integrated device (e.g., electronic clothes), a body attaching-type device (e.g., a skin pad or tattoo), or a body implantable device (e.g., an implantable circuit). According to some embodiments, the electronic device may include, for example, at least one of a TeleVision (TV), a Digital Video Disk (DVD) player, an audio player, a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a cleaner, an oven, a microwave oven, a washing machine, an air purifier, a set-top box, a home automation control panel, a security control panel, a TV box (e.g., Samsung HomeSync™, Apple TV™, or Google TV™), a game console (e.g., Xbox™, PlayStation™), an electronic dictionary, an electronic key, a camcorder, and an electronic picture frame.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may include at least one of various medical devices (e.g., various portable medical measuring devices (e.g., a blood sugar measuring device, a heart rate measuring device, a blood pressure measuring device, a body temperature measuring device, etc.), Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), imaging equipment, ultrasonic instrument, etc.)), a navigation device, a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, an Event Data Recorder (EDR), a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), a car infotainment device, an electronic equipment for ship (e.g., a vessel navigation device, a gyro compass, etc.), avionics, a security device, a car head unit, an industrial or domestic robot, a drone, an Automatic Teller's Machine (ATM) of financial institutions, Point Of Sales (POS) of shops, and internet of things (e.g., a light bulb, various sensors, an electric or gas meter, a sprinkler device, a fire alarm, a thermostat, a streetlamp, a toaster, a fitness equipment, a hot water tank, a heater, a boiler, etc.). According to some embodiments, the electronic device may include at least one of part of furniture, buildings/constructions or cars, an electronic board, an electronic signature receiving device, a projector, and various measurement machines (e.g., water supply, electricity, gas, propagation measurement machine, etc.). The electronic device according to various embodiments may be flexible, or may be a combination of two or more of the aforementioned various devices. The electronic device according to an embodiment of the present document is not limited to the aforementioned devices. The term ‘user’ used in the present document may refer to a person who uses the electronic device or a device (e.g., an Artificial Intelligence (AI) electronic device) which uses the electronic device.

FIG. 1is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG. 1, an electronic device101in a network environment100may communicate with an electronic device102via a first network198(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or an electronic device104or a server108via a second network199(e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may communicate with the electronic device104via the server108.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a processor120, memory130, an input device150, a sound output device155, a display device160, an audio module170, a sensor module176, an interface177, a haptic module179, a camera module180, a power management module188, a battery189, a communication module190, a Subscriber Identification Module (SIM)196, or an antenna module197. In some embodiments, at least one (e.g., the display device160or the camera module180) of the components may be omitted from the electronic device101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device101. In some embodiments, for example, some of the components may be implemented integrally, such as the sensor module176(e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) embedded, for example, in the display device160(e.g., a touch screen display).

The processor120may drive, for example, software (e.g., a program140) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device101coupled with the processor120, and may perform various data processing or computation. The processor120may load and process a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module176or the communication module190) into a volatile memory132, and store resulting data in a non-volatile memory134. According to an embodiment, the processor120may include a main processor121(e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or an Application Processor (AP)), and an auxiliary processor123(e.g., a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), an Image Signal Processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a Communication Processor (CP)) that is operable independently from the main processor121or, additionally or alternatively, adapted to consume less power than the main processor121or to be specific to a specified function. Herein, the auxiliary processor123may be operable separately from or embedded to the main processor121.

The auxiliary processor123may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display device160, the sensor module176, or the communication module190) among the components of the electronic device101, instead of the main processor121while the main processor121is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor121while the main processor121is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor123(e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module180or the communication module190) functionally related to the auxiliary processor123. The memory130may store various data, e.g., software (e.g., the program140), and input data or output data for a command related thereto, used by at least one component (e.g., the processor120or the sensor module176) of the electronic device101. The memory130may include the volatile memory132or the non-volatile memory134.

The program140may include, for example, an Operating System (OS)142, middleware144, or an application146, as software stored in the memory130.

The input device150is a device for receiving a command or data to be used by components (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101, and may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, or a keyboard.

The sound output device155is a device which outputs sound signals to the outside of the electronic device101, and may include, for example, a speaker be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record or a receiver used for an incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented integrally with or separately from the speaker.

The display device160is a device which provides information to the user of the electronic device101, and may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector, and a control circuitry for controlling a corresponding device. According to an embodiment, the display device160may include a touch circuitry or a pressure sensor capable of measuring intensity of pressure incurred by a touch.

The sensor module176may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device101, or may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an external environment state. The sensor module176may include, for example, at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor (e.g., a Red, Green, Blue (RGB) sensor), an InfraRed (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and an illuminance sensor, and an Ultra Violet (UV) sensor. According to various embodiments, the sensor module176may include, for example, an E-nose sensor, an ElectroMyoGraphy (EMG) sensor, an ElectroEncephaloGram (EEG) sensor, an ElectroCardioGram (ECG) sensor, an Infrared (IR) sensor, an iris sensor, or a fingerprint sensor. The sensor module176may further include a control circuit for controlling one or more sensors included therein. In some embodiments, the electronic device101may further include a processor configured to control the sensor module176either separately or as a part of the processor120, and may control the sensor module176while the processor is in a sleep state.

The interface177may support a specified protocol that can be wiredly or wirelessly coupled with the external electronic device102. According to an embodiment, the interface177may include a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a Secure Digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

A connecting terminal178may include a connector, via which the electronic device101can be physically coupled with the electronic device101, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector). In some embodiments, the connecting terminal178may include at least one contact (e.g., a conductive pad) disposed to an outer face of the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device102(e.g., a tester) may be coupled to the connecting terminal178, and may detect leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, although not shown, the electronic device101may include a leakage current cutoff circuit (or a leakage current reduction circuit) electrically coupled with a ground plane and a conductive exterior member. For example, the leakage current cutoff circuit may not be allowed to flow from the ground plane to the conductive exterior member.

According to an embodiment, the leakage current cutoff circuit may be designed to convert high-voltage Alternating Current (AC) input from the external electronic device102to low-voltage AC or remove it. According to another embodiment, the leakage current cutoff circuit may be designed to convert high-current AC input from the external electronic device102to low-current AC or remove it. In some embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit may be designed to convert high-current AC input from the external electronic device102to low-current DC or remove it. In some embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit may be designed to convert high-voltage AC input from the external electronic device102to low-current DC or remove it.

For example, if there is a deterioration in leakage current cutoff performance (e.g., a breakage in the leakage current cutoff circuit), current may flow from the ground plane to the conductive exterior member, which may electrically shock a user who carries the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may couple at least one first terminal of the connecting terminal178to the ground plane and couple at least one second terminal of the connecting terminal179to the conductive exterior member, and may provide a device which couples between the ground plane and the conductive exterior member to the leakage current cutoff circuit. According to various embodiments, the leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device101may be easily detected by coupling the external electronic device102to the connecting terminal178.

The camera module180may capture a still image or a moving image. According to an embodiment, the camera module180may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module188is a module for managing power supplied to the electronic device101, and may be implemented, for example, as at least part of a Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC). The electronic device101may receive power supplied from an external power device (e.g., a charging device) coupled to the connecting terminal178. In an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a leakage current cutoff circuit, and may convert high-voltage AC current input from an external power device (e.g., the external electronic device102) into low-voltage DC current, thereby decreasing a risk of electric shock. For example, the leakage current cutoff circuit may be designed to be included in the PMIC.

The battery189is a device which supplies power to at least one component of the electronic device101, and may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

The communication module190may support establishing a wired or wireless communication channel between the electronic device101and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102, the electronic device104, or the server108) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module190may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor120(e.g., the Application Processor (AP)) and support wired communication or wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module190may include a wireless communication module192or a wired communication module194, and by using a corresponding communication module between the communication modules, may communicate with an external electronic device via a first network198(e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi direct, or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network199(e.g., a long-distance communication network such as LAN or WAN). The aforementioned several types of communication modules190may be implemented as one chip or may be implemented individually as separate chips.

According to various embodiments, the wireless communication module192may include a cellular communication module, a short-distance wireless communication module, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module, or the like. For example, the cellular communication module may use, for example, at least one of LTE, LTE Advance (LTE-A), code division multiple access (CDMA), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), and the like. For example, the short-distance wireless communication module may include at least one of Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), Light Fidelity (LiFi), Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, Near Field Communication (NFC), magnetic secure transmission, Radio Frequency (RF), Body Area Network (BAN), and the like. For example, the GNSS communication module may be, for example, a Global Positioning System (GPS), a Global Navigation Satellite System (Glonass), a Beidou Navigation Satellite System (Beidou) or Galileo, the European global satellite-based navigation system.

According to various embodiments, the wired communication module194may include, for example, at least one of Universal Serial Bus (USB), High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), Recommended Standard-232 (RS-232), power-line communication, Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS), and the like. The wired communication module194may include at least one of a telecommunications network, e.g., a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN), the Internet, and a telephone network.

According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module192may use user information stored in the SIM196to identify or authenticate the electronic device101in the communication network.

The antenna module197may include one or more antennas to transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside. According to an embodiment, the communication module190(e.g., the wireless communication module192) may transmit the signal to the external electronic device via an antenna suitable for a communication scheme, or may receive the signal from the external electronic device.

According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device101and the external electronic device104via the server108coupled with the second network199. Each of the external electronic devices102and104may be a device of the same type as, or a different type from, the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed in the electronic device101may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices. According to an embodiment, if the electronic device101has to perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request, the electronic device101, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request the external electronic device to perform at least part of the function associated therewith. The external electronic device receiving the request may perform the requested function or the additional function, and may transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device101. The electronic device101may provide the requested function or service, with or without further processing of the received outcome. To this end, for example, a cloud computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing technology may be used.

Various embodiments of the disclosure may be implemented as software (e.g., the program140) including instructions stored in a machine (e.g., computer)-readable storage medium (e.g., an internal memory136or an external memory138). The machine is a device which is capable of invoking an instruction stored in the storage medium and is operable according to the invoked instruction, and may include an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device101) according to the disclosed embodiments. When the instruction is executed by a processor (e.g., the processor120), the processor may execute a function corresponding to the instruction, with or without using other components under the control of the processor. The instruction may include a code generated or executed by a complier or an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Herein, the term “non-transitory” simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal, but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.

Each component (e.g., a module or a program) according to various embodiments may be configured as a single entity or multiple entities. Among the aforementioned sub components, some of the sub components may be omitted, or some of other components may be further included in the various embodiments. Alternatively or additionally, some components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single entity, so that functions are performed in the same or similar manner as they are performed by the respective corresponding components before the integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted, or other operations may be added.

FIG. 2Ais a front perspective view of an electronic device having a conductive exterior member according to an embodiment.FIG. 2Bis a rear perspective view of an electronic device having a conductive exterior member according to an embodiment.FIG. 3is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device having a conductive exterior member according to an embodiment.

An electronic device200ofFIG. 2AandFIG. 2Bmay be, for example, the electronic device101ofFIG. 1. Referring toFIG. 2AandFIG. 2B, the electronic device100according to an embodiment may include a housing210constituting the entirety or at least part of an exterior of the electronic device200. The housing210may include a non-metallic material and/or a metallic material. For example, the housing210may be constructed of materials such as plastic, metal, carbon fiber and other fiber composites, ceramic, glass, wood, or combinations of these materials. According to various embodiments, the housing210may be constructed of one material as a whole or combinations of a plurality of materials. According to an embodiment, at least part of the housing210may be designed to have a metallic material, or may construct an exterior of the electronic device200.

According to an embodiment, the housing210may construct an exterior including a first face (or a front face)210A, a second face (or a back face)210B, and a third face210C. The first face210A may face a first direction2001, and the second face210B may face a second direction2002opposite to the first direction2001. The third face210C may be a side face surrounding a space between the first face210A and the second face210B. According to another embodiment, although not shown, the housing210may refer to a structure of constructing at least part of the first face210A, second face210B, and third face210C.

According to an embodiment, the housing210may include a cover or plate (hereinafter, a front plate)201constituting the first face (hereinafter, the front face)210A. According to an embodiment, the front face210A may be constructed by the front plate201(e.g., a glass plate or polymer plate including a plurality of coating layers) which is at least partially transparent in practice.

According to an embodiment, the housing210may include a cover or plate (hereinafter, a back plate)220constituting the second face (hereinafter, the back face)210B. According to an embodiment, the back face210B may be constructed by the back plate202which is opaque in practice. The back plate202may be constructed by coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metallic materials (e.g. aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium) or a combination of at least two of the these materials. According to various embodiments, the back plate202may be molded in various manners such as die-casting, stamping (press), CNC, or the like, and at least part thereof may include a metallic material.

According to an embodiment, the housing210may include a side member (or a side bezel structure)203surrounding a space between the front plate201and the back plate202. The side member203may be joined with the front plate201and the back plate202, and the third face (hereinafter, the side face)210C may be constructed by the side member203. At least part of the side member203may be constructed of various materials such as metal, polymer, or the like.

According to various embodiments, an edge area of the front face210A may be designed as an inclined face (e.g., a curved face). For example, at least one of both edge areas2011and2012of the front face210A disposed in a unilateral direction2003may be an inclined face. According to an embodiment, the front face201may be designed to have a curved portion for constructing the inclined face of the front face201A.

According to various embodiments, an edge area of the back face210B may be designed as an inclined face (e.g., a curved face). For example, at least one of both edge areas2013and2014of the back face210B disposed in the unilateral direction2003may be an inclined face. According to an embodiment, the back plate202may be designed to have a curved portion for constructing an inclined face of the back face210B.

According to various embodiments, although not shown, the electronic device200may include a member (e.g., a mid-plate) extended between the front plate201and the back plate202from the side member203.

According to an embodiment, at least part of the side member203may include a conductive material. According to various embodiments, the side member203may include a plurality of metallic portions physically separated from each other. According to an embodiment, a non-conductive member2035may be disposed between the plurality of metallic portions. According to various embodiments, the non-conductive member2035may be extended from a member (e.g., the mid-plate) disposed inside the electronic device200.

According to various embodiments, the back plate202and the side member203may be designed integrally. For example, when the back plate202and the side member203are designed integrally, a construction may have a shape including a bottom constructed of the back plate202and a side wall constructed of the side member203. When this construction is joined with the front plate201, a space in which various elements (e.g., a display) are disposed may be constructed.

According to various embodiments, when the back plate202and the side member203are designed integrally, the back plate202and the side member203may include the same material (e.g., a metallic material such as aluminum, stainless steel).

The electronic device200may include, for example, various elements disposed between the front plate201and the back plate202. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include at least one of a display221, audio modules2221,2222, and2223, sensor modules2231and2232, camera modules2241,2242, and2243, key input devices2251,2252, and2253, an indicator226, connector holes2271and2272, and an electronic pen228. In some embodiments, the electronic device200may omit at least one (e.g., key input devices2251,2252, and2253) of the components or may additionally include other components.

The display221may be disposed, for example, along at least part of the front plate201, and may be exposed through the front plate201. The front plate201may include an area (hereinafter, a screen area)201A which covers the display221and an area (hereinafter, a bezel area)201B which does not cover the display221. The screen area201A may be substantially rectangular, and the bezel area201B may have a shape of a rectangular ring surrounding the screen area201A. The screen area201A may be a substantially transparent area (e.g., an area having a light transmittance of at least about 50%), and light generated from the display221may be emitted to the outside through the screen area201A. The bezel area201B may be a substantially opaque area (e.g., a light blocking area). For example, the bezel area201B may include a layer including a light blocking material. For example, the bezel area201B may be designed to have color similar to or the same as the side member203.

According to various embodiments, the display221may be disposed to be joined with or adjacent to a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring touch strength (pressure), and/or a pen sensor (or a digitizer) for detecting a magnetic-type electronic pen.

According to an embodiment, the audio modules2221,2222, and2223may include the microphone hole2221and the speaker holes2222and2223. The microphone hole2221may have a microphone disposed inside thereof to acquire external sound, and in some embodiments, may have a plurality of microphones disposed to sense a sound direction. The speaker holes2222and2223may include the external speaker hole2222and the communication receiver hole2223. In some embodiments, the speaker holes2222and2223and the microphone hole2221may be implemented with one hole, or the speaker may be included without the speaker holes2222and2223(e.g., a Piezo speaker).

According to an embodiment, the sensor modules2231and2232may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operational state of the electronic device200or an external environmental state. The sensor modules2231and2232may include, for example, the first sensor module2231(e.g., a proximity sensor) and/or second sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed to the front face210A, and/or the third sensor module2232(e.g., a Heart Rate Monitoring (HRM) sensor) disposed to the back face210B. The fingerprint sensor may be disposed not only to the front face210A (e.g., the home key button2251) but also the second face210B. The electronic device100may further include at least one of sensor modules (not shown), for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an Infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and an illuminance sensor.

According to an embodiment, the camera modules2241,2242, and2243may include the first camera device2241disposed to the front face210A of the electronic device200, the second camera device2242disposed to the second face210B, and/or the flash2243. The camera modules2241,2242, and2243may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. The flash2243may include, for example, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) or a xenon lamp. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (wide angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed to one face of the electronic device200.

According to an embodiment, the key input devices2251,2252, and2253may include a home key button2251disposed to the front face210A, a touch pad2252disposed around home key button2252, and a side key button2253disposed to the side face210C. In another embodiment, the electronic device200may not include all or some of the aforementioned key input devices2251,2252, and2253. The key input devices2251,2252, and2253which are not included may be implemented on the display221in a different form such as a soft key or the like.

The indicator226may be disposed, for example, to the front face210A. The indicator226may provide, for example, state information of the electronic device200in an optical form, and may include an LED.

The connector holes2271and2272may include, for example, the first connector hole2271capable of housing a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting/receiving power and/or data of an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) and/or the second connector hole (e.g., earphone jack)2272capable of housing a connector for transmitting/receiving an audio signal with respect to the external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1). According to an embodiment, an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) may be coupled to a connector (e.g., the connecting terminal178ofFIG. 1), and may detect leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device200. According to an embodiment, although not shown, the electronic device200may include a leakage current cutoff circuit electrically coupled with a ground plane (e.g., a ground of a PCB) and a conductive exterior member (e.g., the back plate202or the side member203). For example, the leakage current cutoff circuit may prevent current from flowing from the ground plane to the conductive exterior member. If there is a deterioration in leakage current cutoff performance (e.g., a breakage in the leakage current cutoff circuit), current may flow from the ground plane to the conductive exterior member, which may electrically shock a user who carries the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may couple at least one first terminal (or pin) of a connector (e.g., the connecting terminal178ofFIG. 1) to the ground plane and couple at least one second terminal of the connector to the conductive exterior member, and may provide a device which couples between the ground plane and the conductive exterior member to the leakage current cutoff circuit. According to various embodiments, leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device200may be easily detected by coupling an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) to the connector.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device200may include a power management circuit electrically coupled with the ground plane (e.g., a PCB ground) and the conductive exterior member (e.g., the back plate202). For example, the power management circuit may be the power management module188(e.g., PMIC) ofFIG. 1. According to an embodiment, the power management circuit may obtain information on leakage current cutoff performance (or information on leakage current) (e.g., a magnitude of leakage current), and may provide this to a processor (e.g.,120ofFIG. 1). In an embodiment, the processor may output the obtained information on leakage current cutoff performance via a display (e.g., the display device160ofFIG. 1). In another embodiment, the processor may transmit the obtained information on leakage current cutoff performance to an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1). The external electronic device (e.g., an external test device) may detect the leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device200on the basis of the magnitude of leakage current transmitted from the electronic device200.

The electronic pen228may be inserted into the housing210, for example, through a hole (not shown) constructed on the side face210C or may be detached to the outside of the housing210. The electronic device200may include a device (e.g., a sensor) for sensing attachment/detachment of the electronic pen228.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device200may further include various elements (or modules) depending on a type of providing it. The components may be modified in various manners along with the convergence trend of digital devices, and thus not all of the components may be listed herein. However, components of the same level as that of the aforementioned components may be further included in the electronic device200. In the electronic device200according to various embodiments, it is apparent that specific components may be excluded from the aforementioned components or replaced with other components.

Referring toFIG. 3, an electronic device300may include a first support member300consisting of a side bezel structure310(e.g., the side member203ofFIG. 2A or 2B), a first support member311(e.g., a bracket), a front plate320(e.g.,201ofFIG. 2A), a display330(e.g., the display device160ofFIG. 1 or 221ofFIG. 2A), a Printed Circuit Board (PCB)340, a battery350(e.g.,189ofFIG. 1), a second support member360(e.g., a rear case), an antenna370(e.g., the antenna module197ofFIG. 1), and a back plate380(e.g.,202ofFIG. 2B). In some embodiments, the electronic device300may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the first support member331of the second support member360), or may additionally include other components. At least one of the components of the electronic device300may be the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device101ofFIG. 1or the electronic device200ofFIG. 2A, and redundant descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

The first support member311may be coupled with the side bezel structure310by being disposed inside the electronic device300, or may be constructed integrally with respect to the side bezel structure310. The first support member311may be constructed of, for example, a metallic material and/or a non-metallic material (e.g., polymer). The display330may be joined to one side of the first support member311, and the PCB340may be joined to the other side thereof. A processor, a memory, and/or an interface may be mounted on the PCB340. The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphic processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, and a communication processor.

The memory may include, for example, a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory.

The interface may include, for example, a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and/or an audio interface. For example, the interface may electrically or physically couple the electronic device300and the external electronic device, and may include a USB connector, an SD card/MMC connector, or an audio connector.

The battery350is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device300, and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary cell, a rechargeable secondary cell, or a fuel cell. At least part of the battery350may be disposed substantially on the same plane with respect to, for example, the PCB340. The battery350may be disposed integrally inside the electronic device300, or may be detachably disposed with respect to the electronic device300.

The antenna370may be disposed between the back plate380and the battery350. The antenna370may include, for example, a Near Field Communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a Magnetic Secure Transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna370may perform short-range communication, for example, with the external electronic device, or may wirelessly transmit/receive power required for charging. In another embodiment, an antenna structure may be constructed by at least part of the side bezel structure310and/or first support member311or a combination thereof.

According to an embodiment, an element (e.g., the side bezel structure310, the first support member311, the second support member360, and the back plate380) constituting an exterior of the electronic device300may include a metallic material. The leakage current may flow to a conductive exterior member (e.g., the back plate380). The leakage current may flow to a human body of a user who carries the electronic device300. A body response (or symptom) may be discomfort, pain, muscle spasms, burns, or fatalities according to a magnitude of current which passes through the human body. In an embodiment, the electronic device300may charge a battery by receiving power supplied from an external power device (e.g., a charging device). Due to a damage or breakage of the external power device, unintended high-voltage AC may be supplied from the external power device to the electronic device300. The high-voltage AC may be leaked to the conductive exterior member of the electronic device300, and the leakage current may cause electric shock to the user. Although the conductive exterior member may be designed to include an insulating material coated on its surface, AC current may flow through the insulating material due to fluctuation of an electric potential difference. In another embodiment, the unintended DC over-current output from the electronic device300may be leaked to the conductive exterior member, which may cause a body reaction such as discomfort, pain, or the like. When the conductive exterior member is aged or damaged such as a case where an insulating material is peeled off due to aging, damage, or the like, a possibility that leakage current flows from the conductive exterior member to a human body may be further increased. According to an embodiment, the electronic device300may include a leakage current cutoff circuit electrically coupled with a ground plane (e.g., a ground of a PCB) and the conductive exterior member. For example, the leakage current cutoff circuit may prevent the leakage current from flowing from the ground plane to the conductive exterior member.

FIG. 4illustrates an electronic device including a conductive exterior member and a leakage current cutoff circuit according to an embodiment. An electronic device400ofFIG. 4may include, for example, at least part of the electronic device101ofFIG. 1, the electronic device200ofFIG. 2A, or the electronic device300ofFIG. 3.

Referring toFIG. 4, the electronic device400according to an embodiment may include a PCB440(e.g., the PCB340ofFIG. 3), a conductive exterior member480(e.g., the back plate380or side bezel structure310ofFIG. 3), and a connector490. The PCB440may include a ground or ground plane441. A leakage current cutoff circuit442may be electrically coupled with the ground plane441of the PCB440. According to various embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit442may be mounted on the ground plane441of the PCB440.

According to an embodiment, the leakage current cutoff circuit442may be electrically coupled with a conductive exterior member480. The leakage current cutoff circuit442may reduce or cut off leakage current which flows from the ground plane441to the conductive exterior member480. When current is not leaked to the conductive exterior member480, electric shock can be prevented.

According to an embodiment, the leakage current cutoff circuit442may be designed to convert high-voltage Alternating Current (AC) input via the connector490(e.g., the connecting terminal178ofFIG. 1or the connector hole2271ofFIG. 2A) to low-voltage AC or remove it. According to another embodiment, the leakage current cutoff circuit442may be designed to convert high-current AC input via the connector490to low-current AC or remove it. In some embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit442may be designed to convert high-current AC input via the connector490to low-current DC or remove it. In some embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit442may be designed to convert high-voltage AC input via the connector490to low-current DC or remove it.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device400may include a first conductive path401electrically coupling the leakage current cutoff circuit442and a first point481of the conductive exterior member480. The first conductive path401may include a first contact401aelectrically coupled with the leakage current cutoff circuit442. According to an embodiment, the first contact401amay be mounted on a land (or a pad) (not shown) constructed on the PCB440.FIG. 5illustrates a circuit500electrically coupled with one point (e.g., the first point481ofFIG. 4) of a conductive exterior member (e.g.,480ofFIG. 4) according to an embodiment. Referring toFIG. 5, a leakage current cutoff circuit542(e.g.,442ofFIG. 4) may be electrically coupled with a first contact501(e.g.,401aofFIG. 4) and a ground plane541(e.g.,441ofFIG. 4). The leakage current cutoff circuit542may include at least one active element or passive element. For example, the leakage current cutoff circuit542may include a capacitor and/or a varistor as shown in the figure. Although not shown, the leakage current cutoff circuit542may be designed to include various other elements such as a diode (e.g., a Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode) or the like.

Returning toFIG. 4, in an embodiment, the first contact401aand the leakage current cutoff circuit442may be designed as separate elements. For example, the first conductive path401may include a line401bwhich electrically couples the first contact401aand the leakage current cutoff circuit442. The line401bmay be a conductive path (or a conductive pattern) constructed on the PCB440.

In some embodiments, although not shown, the leakage current cutoff circuit442may be implemented directly in the first contact401a. For example, the first contact401amay be designed such that capacitance is constructed structurally. For example, the first contact401amay include a capacitance constructing structure having a shape including two metal plates and a dielectric material disposed between the metal plates.

According to some embodiments, although not shown, the first contact401amay be designed to include the leakage current cutoff circuit442. For example, the first contact401amay be a component including the leakage current cutoff circuit442(e.g., a capacitor).

According to various embodiments, although not shown, the first contact401amay be disposed on the leakage current cutoff circuit442. For example, the first contact401amay be disposed between the leakage current cutoff circuit442and the first point481.

According to various embodiments, the first contact401amay be a flexible conductive member such as a C-clip, a pogo-pin, a spring, a conductive poron and rubber, a conductive tape, a cooper connector, or the like. The flexible conductive member may improve electrical coupling between the PCB440and the conductive exterior member480.

Returning toFIG. 4, according to an embodiment, the electronic device400may include a second conductive path402which electrically couples at least one pin492out of a plurality of pins of the connector490(e.g., the connecting terminal178ofFIG. 1) and a second point482of the conductive exterior member480. The second conductive path402may include a second contact402aelectrically coupled with at least one pin492of the connector490. According to an embodiment, the second contact402amay be mounted on a land (e.g., a copper foil pad) constructed on the PCB440. The second conductive path402may include a line402bwhich electrically couples the second contact402aand at least one pin492. According to an embodiment, the line402bmay be a conductive pattern constructed on the PCB440. According to an embodiment, the second contact402amay be a flexible conductive member such as a C-clip, a pogo-pin, a spring, a conductive poron and rubber, a conductive tape, a cooper connector, or the like.FIG. 6illustrates a circuit600electrically coupled with one point (e.g., the second point482ofFIG. 4) of a conductive exterior member (e.g.,480ofFIG. 4) according to an embodiment. Referring toFIG. 6, at least one pin692(e.g.,492ofFIG. 4) of a connector (e.g.,490ofFIG. 4) may be electrically coupled with a second contact602(e.g.,402aofFIG. 4).

Returning toFIG. 4, according to an embodiment, at least one pin491of the connector490(e.g., the connecting terminal178ofFIG. 1) may be electrically coupled with the ground plane441. A third conductive path403which electrically couples the ground plane441and at least one pin491of the connector490may be constructed on the PCB440.

According to an embodiment, if there is a deterioration in leakage current cutoff performance (e.g., a breakage in the leakage current cutoff circuit (442ofFIG. 4)), leakage current may flow from the ground plane441to the conductive exterior member480, which may electrically shock a user who carries the electronic device400. According to an embodiment, the electronic device400may couple at least one first pin491of the connector490and couple at least one second pin492of the connector490to the conductive exterior member480to provide a device which couples between the ground plane441and the conductive exterior member480to the leakage current cutoff circuit442. According to various embodiments, leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device400may be easily detected by coupling an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) to the connector490.

Returning toFIG. 3, in an embodiment, the side bezel structure310may include an opening3101(e.g., the connector hole2271ofFIG. 2A), and a connector (e.g.,490ofFIG. 4) may be mounted to be disposed inside the opening or to be aligned with the opening. According to an embodiment, the connector may include a female connector (hereinafter, a receptacle) designed to be bonded with a male connector (hereinafter, a plug) of an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1).FIG. 7illustrates a state in which a receptacle is mounted on an electronic device according to an embodiment. Referring toFIG. 7, a receptacle700may be mounted on a PCB740. According to an embodiment, the PCB740ofFIG. 7may be separated from the PCB340ofFIG. 3, and the PCBs340and740may be electrically coupled by means of a connecting member (e.g., FPCB)742. In some embodiments, although not shown, the PCB340ofFIG. 3or the PCB440ofFIG. 4may be designed to include the PCB740ofFIG. 7. According to an embodiment, the receptacle700and the PCB740may be coupled to a support member760(e.g., the first support member311or second support member360ofFIG. 3) by using a bolt761. According to an embodiment, the receptacle700may include a shell702including an opening701and an extension portion703extended to both sides of the shell702. For example, the opening701may be aligned with the connector hole2271ofFIG. 2A(or the opening3101ofFIG. 3), and a plug (not shown) of an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) may be inserted to the housing702of the receptacle700through the connector hole2271. The extension portion703is a portion to which the bolt761is fastened, and may include a hole (not shown) penetrated by the bolt761. For the bolt fastening, the PCB740may include a hole (not shown) aligned with the hole of the extension portion703. For the bolt fastening, the support member760may include a bolt fastening boss (not shown) aligned with the hole of the extension portion703. According to an embodiment, the receptacle700may include a tongue705disposed to a space of the housing702. The receptacle700may include a plurality of pins (or contacts) (not shown) disposed to the tongue705. When the plug of the external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) is bonded to the receptacle700, the plurality of pins of the tongue705may be electrically coupled to the pins included in the plug of the external electronic device.

Referring toFIG. 7, a flexible conductive member790may be mounted on the PCB740. According to an embodiment, the flexible conductive member790may be the second contact402aofFIG. 4. Although the flexible conductive member790may be a C-clip as illustrated, it may be replaced with a pogo-pin, a spring, a conductive poron and rubber, a conductive tape, a cooper connector, or the like.

FIG. 8illustrates a back plate according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 8, a back plate880(e.g.,380ofFIG. 3or the conductive exterior member480ofFIG. 4) may include a plurality of contacts882constructed on a face881facing a PCB (e.g.,340ofFIG. 3 or 440ofFIG. 4). At least one contact882aout of the plurality of contacts882may correspond to the second point482ofFIG. 4. Although not shown, at least one of the plurality of contacts882may correspond to the first point481ofFIG. 4.

FIG. 9illustrates a state in which a PCB is joined with a support member according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 9, a first PCB941(e.g., the PCB340ofFIG. 3) and a second PCB942(e.g., the PCB740ofFIG. 7) may be coupled to a face9001of a support member960(e.g., the first support member311or second support member360ofFIG. 3) facing a back plate (e.g.,380ofFIG. 3 or 880ofFIG. 8). According to an embodiment, the support member960is rectangular, and the first PCB942and the second PCB942may be disposed to be separated from each other in a lengthwise direction. An FPCB943(e.g., the connecting member742ofFIG. 7) may electrically couple the first PCB941and the second PCB942. According to various embodiments, a battery (e.g.,350ofFIG. 3) may be disposed to a space944between the first PCB941and the second PCB942. According to an embodiment, the first PCB941and the second PCB942may include a plurality of flexible conductive members902corresponding to the contacts882ofFIG. 8. The flexible conductive members902may include the contacts401aand402aofFIG. 4. According to an embodiment, at least one flexible conductive member902adisposed near (e.g., within about 20 mm) the connector990(e.g.,490ofFIG. 4) may be the second contact402aofFIG. 4.

In an embodiment, a plurality of pins of a connector (e.g.,490ofFIG. 4 or 700ofFIG. 7) may include tails (not shown) for electrical coupling with a PCB (e.g.,440ofFIG. 4 or 740ofFIG. 7).

According to various embodiments, although not shown, the electronic device may be designed as a watch which can be worn on a user's wrist. The watch includes a housing constituting an exterior. The housing may include a first face (a front face) and a second face (a back face), facing in different directions, and a third face (a side face) having a substantially ring shape surrounding a space between the first face and the second face. When the watch is worn on the user's wrist, the second face may be covered in contact with the user's wrist, and a display may be exposed through the first face. According to an embodiment, the second face of the watch may be constructed by a back plate including a metallic material. The back plate of the watch may include a plurality of contacts such as the back plate880ofFIG. 8. In an embodiment, the back plate of the watch may be electrically coupled with a leakage power cutoff circuit mounted on the PCB of the watch. For example, the PCB and the back plate contacts of the watch may be electrically coupled by means of a flexible conductive member (e.g., an FPCB, a C-clip, a pogo-pin, a spring, a conductive poron and rubber, a conductive tape, a cooper connector, etc.).

In some embodiments, although not shown, there may be one or more contacts disposed to a side member (e.g.,203ofFIG. 2Aor the side bezel structure310ofFIG. 3), and the leakage current cutoff circuit of the PCB (e.g.,340ofFIG. 3, 440ofFIG. 4, or941of942ofFIG. 9) may be electrically coupled with these contacts. For example, the PCB and the plurality of contacts of the side member may be electrically coupled by means of a flexible conductive member (e.g., an FPCB, a C-clip, a pogo-pin, a spring, a conductive poron and rubber, a conductive tape, a cooper connector, etc.). According to various embodiments, when the electronic device is designed as a watch, a conductive member constituting a side face of the watch may be electrically coupled with the leakage current cutoff circuit.

In some embodiments, although not shown, there are one or more contacts disposed to a front plate (e.g.,201ofFIG. 2A or 320ofFIG. 3), and the leakage current cutoff circuit of the PCB (e.g.,340ofFIG. 3, 440ofFIG. 4, or941or942ofFIG. 9) may be electrically coupled with these contacts. According to various embodiments, when the electronic device is designed as a watch, a front face of the watch may be constructed by a screen and a conductive member surrounding the screen, and the conductive member may be electrically coupled with the leakage current cutoff circuit.

FIG. 10illustrates a PCB according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 10, a PCB1040(e.g.,440ofFIG. 4) may include first lands (or pads)1041electrically coupled (e.g., soldered) with tails of a connector (e.g.,490ofFIG. 4 or 700ofFIG. 7). According to an embodiment, the PCB1040may include second contact(s) (or second land(s)) on which the second contact402aofFIG. 4is mounted. According to an embodiment, the PCB1040may include a conductive path (or a conductive pattern)1044(e.g.,402bofFIG. 4) electrically coupling at least one first land1042and second land(s)1043. According to various embodiments, at least part of the conductive path1044may be constructed on a layer different from that of the first lands1041or the second land(s)1043, and may be electrically coupled with the first land1042or the second land(s) through a via. For example, the first lands1041or the second land(s) may be constructed on an outer face of the PCB1040, and at least part of the conductive path1044may be disposed inside the PCB1040.

FIG. 11Ais a perspective view of a receptacle mounted on an electronic device having a conductive exterior member according to an embodiment.FIG. 11BandFIG. 11Cillustrate a pin arrangement structure of a receptacle according to an embodiment.FIG. 11Dillustrates a pin map of a receptacle according to an embodiment.FIG. 12illustrates a PCB on which a receptacle is mounted according to an embodiment. According to various embodiments, a receptacle1100may be a type-C connector or a reversible connector. For example, the type-C plug is connectable to the receptacle1100without distinction of up and down. According to various embodiments, the receptacle1100may be a connector supporting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.x or 3.x.

Referring toFIG. 11AandFIG. 11B, the receptacle1100may include, for example, a shell1110, a tongue1120, and a plurality of pins1130. The shell1110has a substantially tubular shape of which one side is open, and may include a passage1111capable of inserting a plug (not shown). An opening111amay be constructed at one side of the passage1111, and the plug may move into the passage1111of the shell1110through the opening1111a. The passage1111of the shell1110may be extended straight in a movement direction of the plug, and the plug may be at least partially inserted into the shell1110by being guided to the passage1111of the shall1110.

According to an embodiment, at least part of the shell1110may include a conductive material (e.g., stainless steel or phosphor bronze) or a non-conductive material. According to an embodiment, the shell1110may include a plurality of leads11101protruding outwardly. Referring toFIG. 12, the plurality of leads11101may be inserted to a plurality of component holes1201of the PCB1200(e.g.,440ofFIG. 4), and an end portion thereof may protrude to the opposite side of the PCB1200. The PCB1200may include a soldering land (e.g., a copper foil pad) (not shown) around the plurality of component holes1201. An end portion of the plurality of leads11101may be electrically coupled (e.g., soldering) with a land of the PCB1200by using a conductive material such as a solder. According to an embodiment, the plurality of leads11101of the shell1110may be electrically coupled with a ground plane (e.g.,441ofFIG. 4) of the PCB1200.

Returning toFIG. 11AandFIG. 11B, in an embodiment, although not shown, the tongue1120may include a base-plate constructed of a non-conductive material (e.g., glass-filled nylon) and a mid-plate disposed inside the base-plate. The base-plate may be constructed of the non-conductive material, and the plurality of pins1130may be disposed to the base-plate. According to an embodiment, at least part of the mid-plate may include a conductive material or a non-conductive material. A conductive portion of the mid-plate may be electrically coupled with a PCB (e.g.,1200ofFIG. 12). Referring toFIG. 11C, the mid-plate may include at least one lead112021extended from the tongue1120. Referring toFIG. 11CandFIG. 12, the lead112021of the mid-plate may be electrically coupled with a land1202of the PCB1200by using a conductive material such as a solder. According to various embodiments, the conductive portion of the mid-plate may be electrically coupled with a ground plane (e.g.,441ofFIG. 4) of the electronic device (e.g.,400ofFIG. 4).

Referring toFIG. 11C, the plurality of pins1130may be disposed to the tongue1120(e.g., the base-plate). The plurality of pins1130may include tails11304used for electrical coupling with the PCB (e.g.,1200ofFIG. 12). For example, referring toFIG. 12, the tails11304may be electrically coupled with lands1203of the PCB1200by using a conductive material such as a solder.

Referring toFIG. 11C, the tongue1120of the receptacle1100may include a hook fastening portion112031that can be fastened with a hook of a plug. In a plan view, the hook fastening portion112031may be constructed at a side face11203of the tongue1120, and may include an engaging recess for preventing the hook of the plug from being released in a separation direction11002of the plug.

Referring toFIG. 11D, the plurality of pins1130of the receptacle1100may include A-pins A and B-pins B. According to an embodiment, the A-pins A may include a ground pin A1, pins A2, A3, A10, and A11 supporting high-speed data transmission, pins A4 and A9 supporting power supplying, a Channel Configuration (CC) pin A5, a SideBand Use (SBU) pin A8, and pins A6 and A7 supporting low-speed data transmission. The B-pins B may be for the same functionality with the A-pins A. In an embodiment, to design a type-C connector, the A-pins A and the B-pins B may be arranged in an opposite order. According to an embodiment, the receptacle1100may include C-pins C1 and C2. The A-pins A and the B-pins B may be disposed between the C-pins C1 and C2. According to an embodiment, the C-pins C1 and C2 may be constructed at the side face11203of a tongue (e.g.,1120ofFIG. 11C). For example, the C-pins C1 and C2 may be constructed by a conductive portion (e.g., a mid-plate) of the tongue1120.

FIG. 13Ais a perspective view of a plug according to an embodiment.FIG. 13BandFIG. 13Cillustrate a pin arrangement structure according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 13A,FIG. 13B, andFIG. 13C, in an embodiment, a plug1300may include a shell1310and a plurality of pins1330. The shell1310may have an exterior that can be engaged to the passage1111of the shell1110of a receptacle (e.g.,1100ofFIG. 11A). According to an embodiment, the shell1310may include a slot1311which is open in one side. The plurality of pins1330may be disposed to an inner face of the slot1311. For example, when the receptacle (e.g., the receptacle1100ofFIG. 11A) and the plug1300are coupled, the shell1310may be inserted to the passage1111of the shell1110of the receptacle1100, and the tongue1120of the receptacle1100may be inserted to the slot1311. When the tongue1120of the receptacle1100is inserted to the slot1311, the plurality of pins1130disposed to the tongue1120of the receptacle1100may be electrically coupled with the plurality of pins1330disposed to the slot1311. According to an embodiment, the plug1300may be a type-C connector, and the plurality of pins1330of the plug1300may be arranged to correspond to the plurality of pins1130of the receptacle1100ofFIG. 11.

According to an embodiment, the plug1300may include D-pins D1 and D2. For example, A-pins A and B-pins B (not shown) may be disposed to the opposite sides, and may be disposed between the D-pins D1 and D2. According to an embodiment, the D-pins D1 and D2 may be used for physical fastening and electrical coupling between the receptacle (e.g.,1100ofFIG. 11) and the plug1300. For example, one end portion of the D-pins D1 and D2 may be fixed, and the other end portion thereof may be free, such as a cantilever. The free end portion of the D-pins D1 and D2 may include a hook13203for snap-fit fastening. For example, when the plug1300is inserted to the receptacle (e.g.,1100ofFIG. 11A), the D-pins D1 and D2 may be fastened to a hook fastening portion (e.g.,112031ofFIG. 11C) of the receptacle1100through elasticity bending deformation, and may be electrically coupled with the C-pins (e.g., C1 and C2 ofFIG. 11D) of the receptacle1100.

Returning toFIG. 11CandFIG. 11D, in an embodiment, at least one of the C-pins C1 and C2 of the receptacle1100may be at least one pin492ofFIG. 4. According to an embodiment, a plug (e.g.,1300ofFIG. 13A) of an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) may be connected to the receptacle1100, and the external electronic device may detect leakage current through at least one of ground pins A1, A12, B1, and B12 of the receptacle1100and at least one of the C-pins C1 and C2.

FIG. 14illustrates a circuit for a receptacle in an electronic device having a conductive exterior member according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 14, it may be designed such that at least one of pins (a ‘DETECT1’ pin and a ‘DETECT2’ pin) corresponding to the pins C1 and C2 ofFIG. 11Dis electrically coupled to a conductive exterior member (e.g.,480ofFIG. 4). As illustrated, it may be designed such that the ‘DETECT1’ pin is electrically coupled with the conductive exterior member (e.g.,480ofFIG. 4), which may correspond to the pin492ofFIG. 4. A plug (e.g.,1300ofFIG. 13A) of the external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) may be connected to a receptacle1400, and the external electronic device may detect leakage current through the ‘DETECT1’ pin with respect to at least one of the ground pins A1, A12 B1, and B12 of the receptacle1400. In some embodiments, although not shown, it can also be designed such that the ‘DETECT2’ pin replaces the ‘DETECT1’ pin, as a pin corresponding to the pin492ofFIG. 4. In some embodiments, although not shown, it can also be designed such that both the ‘DETECT1’ pin (e.g., the C1-pin ofFIG. 11D) and the ‘DETECT2’ pin (e.g., the C2-pin ofFIG. 11D) are configured as the pin492ofFIG. 4. According to some embodiments, although not shown, a pin which is not designed as the pin492ofFIG. 4out of the ‘DETECT1’ pin and the ‘DETECT2’ pin may be used for the purpose of detecting that a plug (e.g.,1300ofFIG. 13A) is connected to the receptacle1400.

According to some embodiments, a receptacle (e.g.,1100ofFIG. 11A) may be used in communication for a USB 3.x or higher protocol, and at least one pin different from the C1-pin C1 and the C2-pin C2 may be designed as the pin492ofFIG. 4.

According to an embodiment, the receptacle (e.g.,1100ofFIG. 11A) may support backward compatibility. For example, the receptacle1100may be designed to support the USB 3.x protocol. Returning toFIG. 11D, it may be designed such that an electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIG. 1 or 200ofFIG. 2A) on which the receptacle1100is mounted supports not the USB 3.x protocol but a USB 2.x protocol. In this case, in the receptacle1100, pins A2, A3, A10, A11, B2, B3, B10, and B11 (or reserved pints) supporting high-speed data transmission or pins C1 and C2 for mechanical fastening with a plug may be designed as a pin not used in communication through the USB 2.x protocol.

FIG. 15illustrates a circuit for a receptacle in an electronic device having a conductive exterior member according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 15, it may be designed such that at least one of pins (e.g., A2, A3, A10, A11, B2, B3, B10, B11, C1, or C2) not used in communication through a corresponding USB protocol is electrically coupled with a conductive exterior member (e.g.,480ofFIG. 4). For example, as illustrated, it may be designed such that a B2-pin is electrically coupled with the conductive exterior member (e.g.,480ofFIG. 4), which may correspond to the pin492ofFIG. 4. A plug (e.g.,1300ofFIG. 13AorFIG. 13B) of an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) may be connected to the receptacle1400, and the external electronic device may detect leakage current through the B2-pin with respect to at least one of ground pins A1, A12, B1, and B12 of a receptacle1500.

Returning toFIG. 11D, the receptacle1100may have pins A and B arranged differently according to a type of providing it. According to some embodiments, the receptacle1100may be designed to further include additional pin(s) or omit part of pin(s). When a pin arrangement structure of the receptacle1100is changed, a pin arrangement structure of a plug (e.g.,1300ofFIG. 13AorFIG. 13B) may also be changed. In various embodiments, although not shown, the receptacle1100or the plug1300may be changed variously according to a convergence trend of a digital device.

According to various embodiments, the receptacle1100is not limited to the aforementioned USB type-C connector, but may be various such as a USB type-A connector, a USB type-B connector, a USB type mini-A connector, a USB type mini-B connector, a USB type mini-C connector, or the like. According to an embodiment, in the connector, at least one pin not used in communication through a corresponding USB protocol may be configured as the pin492ofFIG. 4.

FIG. 16Ais a block diagram of a system for leakage current detection according to an embodiment.FIG. 16Billustrates a system for leakage current detection according to an embodiment. Referring toFIG. 16AandFIG. 16B, a system1600may include an electronic device1610and an external electronic device1620. For example, the electronic device1610may include at least part of the electronic device101ofFIG. 1, the electronic device200ofFIG. 2A, the electronic device300ofFIG. 3, or the electronic device400ofFIG. 4. The external electronic device1620may be the external electronic device102ofFIG. 1.

Referring toFIG. 16A, according to an embodiment, the electronic device1610may include a conductive exterior member1611, a leakage current cutoff circuit1613, a ground plane1615, and a receptacle1617. In an embodiment, the conductive exterior member1611, the leakage current cutoff circuit1613, the ground plane1615, and the receptacle1617may be respectively similar or equal to the conductive exterior member480, leakage current cutoff circuit442, ground plane441, and connector490ofFIG. 4.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1610may include a first conductive path1631(e.g.,401ofFIG. 4) electrically coupling the conductive exterior member1611and the leakage current cutoff circuit1613. The electronic device1610may include a second conductive path1632(e.g.,402ofFIG. 4) electrically coupling the conductive exterior member1611and at least one pin1617a(e.g.,492ofFIG. 4) of the receptacle1617. The electronic device1610may include a third conductive path1633electrically coupling the leakage current cutoff circuit1613and the ground plane1615. The electronic device1610may include a fourth conductive path1634(e.g., the third conductive path403ofFIG. 4) electrically coupling the ground plane1615and at least one pin1617b(e.g.,491ofFIG. 4) of the receptacle1617.

According to an embodiment, the external electronic device1620(e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) may include a detector1621and a plug1622(e.g.,1300ofFIG. 13A). When the plug1622of the external electronic device1620is connected to the receptacle1617, corresponding pins1622aand1622bof the plug1622may be electrically coupled with the pins1617aand1617bof the receptacle1617. The detector1621may detect leakage current through the pins1617aand1617bof the receptacle1617. The detector1621may detect whether leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1610deteriorates, based on current leaked from the receptacle1617of the electronic device1610.

FIG. 17illustrates an operational flow of an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 17, in operation1701, an external electronic device (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1 or 1620ofFIG. 16A) may detect leakage current through a receptacle (e.g.,1617ofFIG. 16A) of an electronic device (e.g.,1610ofFIG. 16A).

According to an embodiment, in operation1703, the external electronic device may compare the detected leakage current with a threshold.

According to an embodiment, if the detected leakage current is less than or equal to the threshold, in operation1705, the external electronic device may recognize that leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device is in a normal state.

According to an embodiment, if the detected leakage current is greater than the threshold, in operation1707, the external electronic device may recognize that the leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device is in an abnormal state. According to an embodiment, if there is a breakage in a leakage current cutoff circuit (e.g.,1613ofFIG. 16A), the leakage current cutoff performance may be in the abnormal state. If the leakage current cutoff performance is in the abnormal state, it may be difficult to cut off current leaked to a conductive exterior member (e.g.,1611ofFIG. 16A). According to various embodiments, upon detecting the deterioration of the leakage current cutoff performance of an electronic device (e.g.,1610ofFIG. 16A), the external electronic device may provide various outputs (e.g., a sound, an image, a vibration, etc.) regarding this. For example, upon detecting the deterioration in the leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1610, the external electronic device may output a set beep sound.

FIG. 18illustrates an electronic device including a conductive exterior member and a leakage current cutoff circuit according to various embodiments. For example, an electronic device1800ofFIG. 18may include at least part of the electronic device101ofFIG. 1, the electronic device200ofFIG. 2A, and the electronic device300ofFIG. 3.

Referring toFIG. 18, according to an embodiment, the electronic device1800may include a PCB1840(e.g., the PCB340ofFIG. 3), a conductive exterior member1880(e.g., the back plate380ofFIG. 3), and a connector1890. The PCB1840may include a ground plane1841. A leakage current cutoff circuit1842may be electrically coupled with the ground plane1841of the PCB1840. According to various embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit1842may be mounted on the ground plane1841of the PCB1840.

According to an embodiment, the leakage current cutoff circuit1842may be electrically coupled with the conductive exterior member1880. The leakage current cutoff circuit1842may decrease or cut off leakage current which flows from the ground plane1841of the PCB1840to the conductive exterior member1880. According to various embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit1842may be similar or identical to the leakage current cutoff circuit442ofFIG. 4, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1800may include a conductive path1801electrically coupling the leakage current cutoff circuit1842and a first point1881of the conductive exterior member1880. The conductive path1801may include a first contact1801aelectrically coupling the leakage current cutoff circuit1842. The conductive path1801may include a line1801belectrically coupling the first contact1801aand the leakage current cutoff circuit1842. According to various embodiments, the conductive path1801may be similar or identical to the first conductive path401ofFIG. 4, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The electronic device1800may include, for example, a power management circuit1805(e.g., the power management module188ofFIG. 1). According to an embodiment, the power management circuit1805may include a PMIC mounted on the PCB1840. The power management circuit1805may be electrically coupled to the ground plane1841via a line (or a conductive pattern)1806. The power management circuit1805may be electrically coupled with the conductive exterior member1880. According to an embodiment, the electronic device1800may include a fifth contact (not shown) electrically coupled with the power management circuit1805. The fifth contact may be mounted on the PCB1840, and may be electrically coupled with the fifth point1885of the conductive exterior member1880. According to various embodiments, the fifth contact may include a flexible member such as a C-clip, a pogo-pin, a spring, a conductive poron and rubber, a conductive tape, a cooper connector, or the like.

According to an embodiment, the power management circuit1805may detect leakage current which flows from the ground plane1841to the conductive exterior member1880. For example, if there is a deterioration in leakage current cutoff performance (e.g., a breakage in the leakage current cutoff circuit1842), the leakage current may flow from the ground plane1841to the conductive exterior member1880, which may be detected by the power management circuit1805. The power management circuit1805may provide a processor (e.g.,120ofFIG. 1) with a magnitude of leakage current which flows from the ground plane1841to the conductive exterior member1880.

According to an embodiment, the processor may display the magnitude of the leakage current, obtained from the power management circuit1805, via a display (e.g., the display device160ofFIG. 1). For another example, the processor may transmit the magnitude of the leakage current to an external electronic device (or an external test device) (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) connected to the connector1890. In some embodiments, the processor may transmit the magnitude of the leakage current to the external electronic device (e.g.,104or108ofFIG. 1) via a wireless communication module (e.g.,192ofFIG. 1). The external electronic device (e.g., the external test device) may detect leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1800on the basis of the magnitude of leakage current transmitted from the electronic device1800.

In some embodiments, although not shown, the electronic device1800ofFIG. 18may be designed to further include the second conductive path402ofFIG. 4.

FIG. 19is a block diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments. According to various embodiments, an electronic device1900may include at least part of the electronic device101ofFIG. 1, the electronic device200ofFIG. 2A, the electronic device300ofFIG. 3, or the electronic device1800ofFIG. 18.

Referring toFIG. 19, in an embodiment, the electronic device1900may include a processor1910, a power management circuit1920, a battery1930, a connector1950, a metallic exterior member1960, a PCB ground1970, and a leakage current cutoff circuit1980.

According to an embodiment, the processor1910(e.g., the processor120ofFIG. 1) may be electrically coupled with the power management circuit1920via a first line1901, and may be electrically coupled with the connector1950(e.g., a USB connector) via a second line1902. According to various embodiments, the connector1950may include the connecting terminal178ofFIG. 1, the connector hole2271ofFIG. 2A, or the connector1890ofFIG. 18.

According to an embodiment, the power management circuit1902may be electrically coupled with the PCB1970(e.g., the ground plane1841ofFIG. 18) via a third line1903. The power management circuit1920may be electrically coupled with a metallic exterior member (e.g.,1880ofFIG. 18) via a fourth line1904. The power management circuit1920may be electrically coupled with the connector1950via a sixth line1906. The power management circuit1920may be electrically coupled with a battery1930via a seventh line1907. According to various embodiments, the power management circuit1920may be the power management module199ofFIG. 1or the power management circuit1805ofFIG. 18. For example, the power management circuit1920may distribute power for driving elements (e.g., the processor1910, the connector1950, etc.) by using power of the battery1930provided via the seventh line1907. For example, power from an external electronic device (e.g., a charging device) connected to the connector1950may be provided to the power management circuit1920via the sixth line1906. The power management circuit1920may provide the battery1930with power supplied from the external electronic device via the seventh line1907(e.g., battery charging). In some embodiments, although not shown, the power management circuit1920may receive wireless power via a wireless charging module of the electronic device1900, and may provide the battery1930with the received wireless power via the seventh line1907(e.g., wireless charging of the battery).

According to an embodiment, the leakage current cutoff circuit1980may be mounted on the fifth line1905which electrically couples between the metallic exterior member1960and the PCB ground1970. According to various embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit1980may decrease or cut off leakage current which flows from the PCB ground1970to the conductive exterior member1960. According to various embodiments, the leakage current cutoff circuit1980may be similar or identical to the leakage current cutoff circuit442ofFIG. 4, and descriptions thereof will be omitted. In some embodiments, the power management circuit1920may be designed to include the leakage current cutoff circuit1980.

According to an embodiment, the power management circuit1920(e.g.,1805inFIG. 18) may detect leakage current which flows from the PCB ground1970to the conductive exterior member1960. For example, if there is a deterioration in leakage current cutoff performance (e.g., a breakage in the leakage current cutoff circuit1980), the leakage current may flow from the PCB ground1970to the conductive exterior member1960, which may be detected by the power management circuit1920. The power management circuit1920may provide the processor1910with a magnitude of leakage current which flows from the PCB ground1970to the conductive exterior member1960via the first line (or the first data line)1901.

According to an embodiment, the processor1910may display the magnitude of the leakage current obtained from the power management circuit1920via a display (not shown) (e.g., the display device160ofFIG. 1). For another example, the processor1910may transmit the magnitude of the leakage current to an external electronic device (or an external test device) (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) connected to the connector1950via the second line (or the second data line)1902. According to an embodiment, the electronic device1900may include a controller IC1940(e.g., a Channel Configuration (CC) IC) mounted on the second line1902. The magnitude of the leakage current may be transmitted to the external electronic device connected to the connector1950via the controller IC1940. In some embodiments, although not shown, the processor1910may transmit the magnitude of the leakage current to the external electronic device via the wireless communication module (e.g.,192ofFIG. 1) of the electronic device1900. The external electronic device (e.g., the external test device) may detect leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1900on the basis of the magnitude of the leakage current transmitted from the electronic device1900.

According to some embodiments, the power management circuit1920may provide the processor1910with information including the magnitude of the leakage current which flows from the PCB ground1970to the conductive exterior member1960. If the magnitude of the leakage current obtained from the power management circuit1920is less than or equal to a threshold, the processor1910may determine that leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1900is in a normal state. If the magnitude of the leakage current obtained from the power management circuit1920is greater than the threshold, the processor1910may determine that the leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1900is in an abnormal state.

According to some embodiments, if the leakage current which flows from the PCB ground1970to the conductive exterior member1960is less than or equal to the threshold, the power management circuit1920may provide the processor1910with a first signal related thereto. The processor1910may recognize that the leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1900is in the normal state on the basis of the first signal. If the leakage current which flows from the PCB ground1970to the conductive exterior member1960is greater than the threshold, the power management circuit1920may provide the processor1910with a second signal related thereto. The processor1910may recognize that the leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1900is in the abnormal state on the basis of the second signal.

According to various embodiments, upon identifying the abnormal state of the leakage current cutoff performance, the processor1910may display the abnormal state of the leakage current cutoff performance via a display (e.g., the display device160ofFIG. 1). For another example, the processor1910may transmit the abnormal state of the leakage current cutoff performance to an external electronic device (or an external test device) (e.g.,102ofFIG. 1) connected to the connector1950. In some embodiments, the processor may transmit the abnormal state of the leakage current cutoff performance to an external electronic device (e.g.,104or108ofFIG. 1) via a wireless communication module (e.g.,192ofFIG. 1).

According to some embodiments, leakage current detection using the power management circuit1920may be carried out during a process of producing the electronic device1900.

FIG. 20illustrates an operational flow of an electronic device according to various embodiments. According to various embodiments, the electronic device may include at least part of the electronic device101ofFIG. 1, the electronic device200ofFIG. 2A, the electronic device300ofFIG. 3, the electronic device1800ofFIG. 18, or the electronic device1900ofFIG. 19.

Referring toFIG. 20, according to an embodiment, in operation2001, a processor (e.g.,120ofFIG. 1 or 1910ofFIG. 19) (hereinafter,1910ofFIG. 19) of the electronic device may obtain information related to leakage current from a power management circuit (e.g.,1920ofFIG. 19). For example, returning toFIG. 19, the information related to leakage current may be a magnitude of leakage current which flows from the PCB ground1970to the metallic exterior member1960.

According to an embodiment, in operation2003, the processor1910may return the obtained information related to leakage current to a user. According to an embodiment, the processor1910may output the magnitude of the leakage current via a display (e.g., the display device160ofFIG. 1). In some embodiments, the processor1910may provide the magnitude of the leakage current by using an output (e.g., a set beep sound) via the audio module170ofFIG. 1, an output (e.g., a set vibration) via the haptic module179, or the like.

According to some embodiments, in operation2003, the processor1910may transmit the obtained information related to the leakage current to an external electronic device. For example, the processor1910may transmit the magnitude of the leakage current to the external electronic device connected to a connector (e.g.,1950ofFIG. 19). The external electronic device (e.g., the external test device) may detect leakage current cutoff performance of the electronic device1800on the basis of the magnitude of the leakage current transmitted from the electronic device1800.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an electronic device (e.g.,200ofFIG. 2AorFIG. 2B) may include a housing (e.g.,210ofFIG. 2A) including a front plate (e.g.,201ofFIG. 2A), a back plate (e.g.,202ofFIG. 2Bor the metallic exterior member480ofFIG. 4)) disposed to the opposite side of the front plate, and a side member (e.g.,203of FIG.2A or the side bezel structure ofFIG. 3) surrounding a space between the front plate and the back plate. At least a part of the back plate202may be constructed of a conductive material, and the side member203may include an opening (e.g., the connector hole2271ofFIG. 2AorFIG. 2B, or3101ofFIG. 3). The electronic device200may include a touch screen display (e.g., the display221ofFIG. 2A) disposed between the front plate201and the back plate202. The electronic device200may include a female connector (e.g.,490ofFIG. 4) disposed inside the opening2271, constructed to house an external male connector, and including a plurality of pins. The electronic device200may include a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) (e.g.,440ofFIG. 4) disposed inside the space and including a ground plane (e.g.,441ofFIG. 4). The electronic device200may include a circuit (e.g., the leakage current cutoff circuit442ofFIG. 4) electrically coupled to the ground plane441and/or mounted thereon to cut off leak current from the PCB440. The electronic device200may include a first conductive path (e.g.,401ofFIG. 4) constructed between the circuit442and a first point (e.g.,481ofFIG. 4) of at least part of the back plate202. The electronic device200may include a second conductive path (e.g.,402ofFIG. 4) constructed between at least one of the pins (e.g.,1130ofFIG. 11A) and a second point (e.g.,482ofFIG. 4) of at least part of the back plate202.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, at least one of the first conductive path401and the second conductive path402may include a flexible conductive member (e.g.,401aor401bofFIG. 4) disposed between the PCB440and the back plate202.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the flexible conductive member may include at least one of a C-clip, a pogo-pin, a spring, a conductive poron and rubber, a conductive tape, and a cooper connector.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the second conductive path402may include a contact (e.g.,1043ofFIG. 10) included in the PCB220, a flexible conductive member (e.g., the second contact402aofFIG. 4) disposed between the contact1043and the second point482, and a conductive pattern (e.g.,1044ofFIG. 10) included in the PCB440and coupling the contact1043and the at least one pin492.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, end portions (e.g., the tails11304ofFIG. 11C) of the plurality of pins may be joined with pads (e.g., the lands1203ofFIG. 12) constructed to an outer face of the PCB. At least part of the conductive pattern (e.g.,1044ofFIG. 10) may be disposed inside the PCB.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the female connector (e.g.,990ofFIG. 9) may be mounted on the PCB942ofFIG. 9), and the contact (e.g.,902aofFIG. 9) may be disposed within 20 mm from the female connector990.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the PCB may include a first PCB (e.g.,941ofFIG. 9) and second PCB (e.g.,942ofFIG. 9) physically separated from each other, and a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB) (e.g.,943ofFIG. 9) electrically coupling the first PCB941and the second PCB942. The female connector990may be mounted on the first PCB941or the second PCB942.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic device may further include a contact (e.g.,1043ofFIG. 10) on the PCB electrically coupled with the second point (e.g.,482ofFIG. 4), and both the contact1043and the female connector (e.g.,990ofFIG. 9) may be mounted on one of the first PCB941and the second PCB942.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the circuit (e.g., the leakage current cutoff circuit442ofFIG. 4) may include a Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC).

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the female connector may include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 connector. The at least one pin may be a pin configured as a pin not used in communication through a USB 2.0 protocol.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the female connector may include a USB type-C connector. The at least one pin may be configured as a pin (e.g., A2, A3, A10, A11, B2, B3, B10, or B11 ofFIG. 11D) not used in communication through a USB protocol.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the female connector may include a USB type-C connector. The at least one pin may be constructed at a portion (e.g.,112031ofFIG. 11C) which is snap-fit engaged with a hook (e.g.,13203ofFIG. 13C) included in the male connector.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the female connector may include a shell (e.g.,1110ofFIG. 11B) aligned with the opening (e.g.,2271ofFIG. 2A) and including a tongue (e.g.,1120ofFIG. 11B) disposed to a space of the shell. The at least one pin may be constructed by a conductive portion (e.g., a mid-plate) included in the tongue.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first conductive path (e.g.,401ofFIG. 4) may include at least part of the circuit (e.g., the leakage current cutoff circuit442ofFIG. 4).

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the back plate (e.g.,201ofFIG. 2A) and the side member (e.g.,203ofFIG. 2A) may be constructed of an integral conductive material.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an electronic device (e.g.,1800ofFIG. 18) may include a housing (e.g.,210ofFIG. 2A) including a front plate (e.g.,201ofFIG. 2A), a back plate (e.g.,202ofFIG. 2B or 1880ofFIG. 18) disposed to the opposite side of the front plate201, and a side member (e.g.,203ofFIG. 2A) surrounding a space between the front plate201and the back plate202. At least a part of the back plate202may be constructed of a conductive material, and the side member203may include an opening (e.g., the connector hole2271ofFIG. 2A, or3101ofFIG. 3). The electronic device1800may further include a touch screen display (e.g., the display221ofFIG. 2A) disposed between the front plate201and the back plate202. The electronic device1800may include a PCB (e.g.,1840ofFIG. 18) disposed inside the space and including a ground plane (e.g.,1841ofFIG. 18). The electronic device1800may include a first circuit (e.g., the leakage current cutoff circuit1842ofFIG. 18) electrically coupled to the ground plane1841and/or mounted thereon to cut off leak current from the PCB1840. The electronic device1800may include a conductive path (e.g.,1801ofFIG. 18) constructed between the first circuit1842and a first point (e.g.,1881ofFIG. 18) of at least part of the back plate (e.g.,1880ofFIG. 18). The electronic device1800may include a second circuit (e.g., the power management circuit1805ofFIG. 18) electrically coupled with the ground plane1841and a second point (e.g.,1885ofFIG. 18) of at least part of the back plate1880to detect leakage current which flows from the PCB1840to the back plate1880. The electronic device1800may include a female connector (e.g.,1890ofFIG. 18) disposed inside the opening2271, constructed to house an external male connector, and including a plurality of pins. The electronic device1800may include a processor (e.g.,1910ofFIG. 19) electrically coupled with the second circuit and the female connector1890. The processor1910may transmit intensity of leakage current detected by the second circuit1805to the male connector connected to the female connector1890.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the second circuit (e.g., the power management circuit1805ofFIG. 18) may include a PMIC electrically coupled with a battery (e.g.,1930ofFIG. 19) mounted on the electronic device1800.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the processor (e.g.,1910ofFIG. 19) may display intensity of leakage current detected by the second circuit (e.g., the power management circuit1805ofFIG. 18) via a display (e.g., the display device160ofFIG. 1) mounted on the electronic device1800.

According to various embodiments, the conductive path (e.g.,1801ofFIG. 18) may include a flexible conductive member disposed between the PCB1840and the back plate1880.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, referring toFIG. 4, a method of detecting leakage current cutoff performance for the electronic device400having the conductive exterior member480may include detecting current leaked through the USB connector490of the electronic device400. The method may include recognizing that performance for cutting off current leaked to the conductive exterior member480is in a deterioration state if the detected current exceeds a threshold.

Meanwhile, the aforementioned embodiments of the disclosure may be writable as a program executable in a computer, and may be implemented in a general purpose digital computer for operating the program by using a computer-readable recording medium. In addition, a data structure used in the aforementioned embodiment of the disclosure may be recorded in the computer-readable recording medium through several means. The computer-readable recording medium includes a storage medium such as a magnetic medium (e.g., a Read Only Memory (ROM), a floppy disc, a hard disc, etc.) and an optical storage medium (e.g., a Compact Disc-ROM (CD-ROM), a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD), etc.).

While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to certain embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Therefore, it shall be considered that the disclosed embodiments are provided not for a restrictive purpose but for an illustrative purpose. The scope of the disclosure is defined not by the detailed description of the disclosure but by the appended claims and their equivalents, and all differences within the scope will be construed as being included in the disclosure.