Image capturing apparatus

The present disclosure relates to an image capturing apparatus, and the image capturing apparatus may include a hollow body formed with opening portions at both ends thereof, a first cover provided with a window, and coupled to the body to cover one end portion of the body, a second cover coupled to the body to cover the other end portion of the body, a frame provided in an inner space of the body and coupled to the body, and an antenna provided between the frame and the body, and the antenna may be formed on an outer circumferential surface of the frame.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(a), this application claims the benefit of earlier filing dates and rights of priority to Korean Application No. 10-2016-0030485, filed on Mar. 14, 2016, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates to an image capturing apparatus having an antenna.

2. Description of the Related Art

Terminals may be generally classified into mobile/portable terminals or stationary terminals according to their mobility. Mobile terminals may also be classified as handheld terminals or vehicle mounted terminals according to whether or not a user can directly carry the terminal.

As it becomes multifunctional, a mobile terminal can be allowed to capture still images or moving images, play music or video files, play games, receive broadcast and the like, so as to be implemented as an integrated multimedia player.

On the other hand, when an image capturing apparatus for capturing an image is used with the terminal in connection with wireless communication or the like, more various images may be provided to a user, and the user's desired images may be provided.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present disclosure is to solve the foregoing problem and other problems. Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an image capturing apparatus capable of wireless communication through an antenna.

In order to accomplish the above and other objects, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, there may be provided an image capturing apparatus, and the image capturing apparatus may include a hollow body formed with opening portions at both ends thereof; a first cover provided with a window, and coupled to the body to cover one end portion of the body; a second cover coupled to the body to cover the other end portion of the body; a frame provided in an inner space of the body and coupled to the body; and an antenna provided between the frame and the body, wherein the antenna is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the frame.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a first recess portion recessed toward an inward direction may be provided at one side of the frame to accommodate a lens assembly, and a plate formed with one or more holes may be provided at the other side of the frame.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the frame may include a middle frame connected between the first recess portion and the plate; and lateral frames formed at both sides of the middle frame to limit a space by the plate, middle frame and first recess portion.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the second cover may include a fastening portion in a plate shape fastened to the body and provided with a second recess portion; and a cap portion, one side of which is rotatably coupled to the fastening portion to open or close the second recess portion.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a plurality of through holes communicating with a plurality of holes formed on the plate may be formed on the second recess portion.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a first waterproof member formed in close contact with the second recess portion to seal the plurality of through holes may be formed on an inner surface of the cap portion facing the second recess portion.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a second waterproof member closely formed in close contact with the plate to seal a plurality of holes formed on the plate may be formed on an inner surface of the fastening portion facing the plate.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a circuit board is provided on one surface of the middle frame, and a battery is provided on the other surface of the frame.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a lens accommodation portion protruded toward the lens assembly may be formed on an inner surface of the first cover.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the circuit board may be formed by depositing two or more sub-circuit boards, and the sub-circuit boards may be electrically connected to each other by a flexible printed circuit board in at least one region.

According to an aspect of the present invention, electronic components may be mounted on at least one surface of the sub-circuit board, and shield members for blocking electromagnetic waves by the electronic components may be formed thereon, and a shock absorbing member may be provided between the shield members adjacent to each other.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the first recess portion may have a shape corresponding to the lens assembly, and an audio input module accommodation portion in which a microphone module is accommodated may be provided on an outer circumferential surface of the first recess portion, and a rubber member for surrounding the microphone module may be provided in the audio input module accommodation portion, and a third waterproof member may be provided between the audio input module accommodation portion and an inner surface of the first cover.

According to an aspect of the present invention, an upper frame coupled to the plate and first recess portion while covering the circuit board may be formed at an upper side of the circuit board.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a third recess portion may be formed on one surface of the upper frame, and a flexible printed circuit board may be formed on the third recess portion, and a microphone module may be connected to an end portion of the flexible printed circuit board.

According to an aspect of the present invention, one or more domes may be provided on one surface of the flexible printed circuit board, and a button may be formed in a region corresponding to the dome on an inner surface of the body.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the button may include a pressing portion exposed to an outside; and an actuator extended from one surface of the pressing portion to press the dome.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a waterproof member accommodation portion in which the third waterproof member is accommodated may be formed on an inner surface of the first cover.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a flange protruded toward an outside may be formed along an edge of the fastening portion, and part of the cap portion may be fixed to the fastening portion by a hinge axis, and a button portion may be provided in a region between the second recess portion and the flange, and the button portion may be accommodated into a button groove formed on a lateral surface of the cap portion, and an elastic member for providing an elastic force to the button portion may be provided between the flange and the button portion.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the first cover and the second cover may be coupled to the body by a screw or adhesive.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a screw hole may be formed on an outer surface of the body, and a screw insert may be provided in the screw hole, and the screw may be fastened to the screw insert to seal a portion at which the body is fastened to the first cover or second cover.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the antenna may include a first antenna formed on a lateral surface of the first recess portion and the lateral frames; and a second antenna and a third antenna formed on lateral frames formed adjacent to the plate, and the first through the third antenna may be fed from a feed terminal formed on the frame.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the feeding terminal may be formed on a protruding portion protruded from the middle frame, and the feeding terminal may be connected to the circuit board.

The effect of an image capturing apparatus and a control method thereof according to the present disclosure will be described as follows.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an antenna may be provided, thereby providing an image capturing apparatus capable of wireless communication.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, various waterproof structures may be provided, thereby having an advantage of allowing audio input/output and waterproof capabilities.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it has an advantage capable of checking an image being recorded by a user in real time by WiFi or LTE wireless communications with a mobile terminal.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a user may check an image being recorded in real time, thereby capturing his or her desired image. In other words, it has an advantage of allowing a user to adjust his or her desired specific direction, distance while viewing a video being recorded in real time, and allowing the enlargement and reduction of an image being captured.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Description will now be given in detail according to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of brief description with reference to the drawings, the same or equivalent components will be provided with the same reference numbers, and description thereof will not be repeated. A suffix “module” and “unit” used for constituent elements disclosed in the following description is merely intended for easy description of the specification, and the suffix itself does not give any special meaning or function. In describing the present disclosure, if a detailed explanation for a related known function or construction is considered to unnecessarily divert the gist of the present disclosure, such explanation has been omitted but would be understood by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand the technical idea of the present disclosure and it should be understood that the idea of the present disclosure is not limited by the accompanying drawings. The idea of the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes besides the accompanying drawings.

A singular representation may include a plural representation as far as it represents a definitely different meaning from the context.

Terms “include” or “has” used herein should be understood that they are intended to indicate the existence of a feature, a number, a step, a constituent element, a component or a combination thereof disclosed in the specification, and it may also be understood that the existence or additional possibility of one or more other features, numbers, steps, constituent elements, components or combinations thereof are not excluded in advance.

FIG. 1is a whole perspective view illustrating an image capturing apparatus100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG. 2is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A inFIG. 1, andFIG. 3is an exploded perspective view illustrating a frame140and an antenna150coupled to the frame140according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIGS. 1 through 3, the image capturing apparatus100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body110, a frame140provided within the body110to form a backbone of the image capturing apparatus100, and a first cover120and a second cover130configured to cover a front and a rear surface of the frame140. The body110has a hollow shape formed with opening portions112,113at both ends thereof, and may have a cylindrical or polygonal columnar shape. The frame140is provided in an inner space of the body110, and at least part thereof is coupled to the body110.FIG. 2illustrates that the frame140is coupled to the body110by an adhesive tape175. The first cover120is formed to cover either one112of the opening portions112,113of the body110, and for an example, may be formed to cover a front surface of the body110. Here, the first cover120is provided with a window114to form a path for receiving light for photographing.

Furthermore, the second cover130is coupled to the body110to cover the remaining one113of the opening portions112,113of the body110, and for an example, may be formed to cover a rear surface of the body110.

Hereinafter, it will be described that a front surface of the image capturing apparatus100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure denote a direction in which light for photographing is incident, and a rear surface of the image capturing apparatus100denotes an opposite direction to the front surface. In other words, when an image is captured with the image capturing apparatus100, a portion located away from the user is a front surface, and a portion located closer to the user is a rear surface. It will be used to have the same meaning even in the body110and frame140.

Accordingly, the first cover120is a case configured to cover a front surface of the image capturing apparatus100, more specifically, body110, and the second cover130is a case configured to cover a rear surface of the body110. The body110, first cover120and second cover130may all form an outer appearance of the image capturing apparatus100, but the first cover120and second cover130will be referred to as a cover in covering the opening portions112,113of the body110, for the sake of convenience of explanation.

The frame140forms a backbone of the image capturing apparatus100, and provides a space in which components constituting the image capturing apparatus100is accommodated. For an example, electronic components192including a battery191, a circuit board181and the like may be accommodated into spaces140a,140blimited by the frame140.

On the other hand, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the image capturing apparatus100may include an antenna150provided between the frame140and the body110. the antenna150is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the frame140, and provided with one or more antennas151,152,153to implement a plurality of frequency bandwidths. For an example, the first antenna151for implementing a first frequency bandwidth is provided at a portion adjacent to the front surface of the frame140, and the second antenna152for implementing a second frequency bandwidth and the third antenna153for implementing a third frequency bandwidth are provided at a portion adjacent to the rear surface of the frame140. At least part of the first through the third frequency bandwidth may overlap or may not overlap.

For an example, the first frequency bandwidth may be LTE B5/B20/B7, and the second frequency bandwidth may be LTE B1/B2/B3, and the third frequency bandwidth may be BT/WIFI, GPS.

The first antenna151is a main antenna150, and the first through the third antenna151,152,153may include a major surface portion151a,152a,153ahaving a large area to be attached to the frame140and a tail portion151b,152b,153bextended from one end portion of the major surface portion151a,152a,153aand formed in a thin and elongated manner. A communication function may be maximized by directing radiation to a large area by the major surface portion151a,152a,153a, and the tail portion151b,152b,153bmay be used to implement a resonant frequency in a region to be implemented by the first through the third antenna151,152,153, respectively. In other words, the primary radiation of the antenna150is carried out by the major surface portion151a,152a,153aand a small amount of electromagnetic waves are radiated from the tail portion151b,152b,153bformed in a length required for impedance matching compared to that of the major surface portion151a,152a,153a. Here, an antenna forming region151cof the frame140is recessed to form the first through the third antenna151,152,153to secure a space capable of mounting the major surface portion151a,152a,153aof the first through the third antenna151,152,153.

Furthermore, a through hole155is formed on the major surface portion151a,152a,153aof the antenna150, and a protrusion147is formed in a region151cdisposed with the antenna150, and thus the major surface portion151a,152a,153aof the antenna150is stably formed on the frame140at a predetermined location.

A first recess portion141recessed toward an inward direction is provided at one side of the frame140such that a lens assembly160is inserted into an inner space of the first recess portion141, and a plate143formed with one ore more through holes145,145amay be provided at the other side of the frame140. For an example, the first recess portion141is formed at a front side of the frame140, and the plate143is formed at a rear side of the frame140. The first recess portion141is formed in a region over a predetermined distance to have a cylindrical or polygonal shaped lens assembly160. In other words, the lens assembly160is formed in a length direction of the image capturing apparatus100, and some lenses constituting the lens assembly160may move over a predetermined section in the length direction for focusing, and thus the first recess portion141should be formed to have a depth in consideration of this.

As described above, the first recess portion141should be formed in at least a length as that of lens assembly160, and should be formed to surround the lens assembly160, and thus should have a polygonal or cylindrical shape.

On the other hand, the antenna150should be provided within the image capturing apparatus100for waterproof performance, and a partial shape of the frame140may be formed in a polygonal or cylindrical shape, thereby securing a large area151ccapable of forming the antenna150. In this manner, an area of the antenna150may be secured to the maximum while having a structure of surrounding the frame140. Here, a space for accommodating the audio input module161should be provided on an upper surface of the frame140, and most of the first antenna151is adhered to a lateral region of the first recess portion141. It to is similar to even the second antenna152and third antenna153. Here, the tail portion151b,152b,153bis formed to surround an outer circumferential surface of both end portions of the frame140.

Here, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a direction connecting a front surface and a rear surface of the image capturing apparatus100may be referred to as a length direction, and a direction perpendicular to the length direction may be referred to as a thickness direction. In particular, when the image capturing apparatus100has a cylindrical shape, the length direction may be an axial direction of the image capturing apparatus100, and the thickness direction may be a radial direction thereof. Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an upper surface denotes a surface formed with a button111formed on the body110, and a lower surface denotes a surface opposite to the upper surface. It may be similarly used even in case where the image capturing apparatus100has a polygonal or cylindrical shape, and may be similarly used for the frame140.

Hereinafter, the structure of the frame140will be described in more detail.

FIG. 4is a view illustrating an upper frame140and a flexible printed circuit board144bprovided on the upper frame140according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS. 2 through 5.

As described above, the first recess portion141is provided on a front surface of the frame140, and the plate143is provided on a rear surface of the frame140. A substantially H-shaped frame140is provided between the first recess portion141and the plate143, and a middle frame142connecting the first recess portion141and plate143and lateral frames146formed at both sides of the middle frame142for limiting a space by the plate143, middle frame142and first recess portion141are formed. The plate143is formed to face a lower surface of the first recess portion141to be separated therefrom, and the lateral frames146are formed in a direction crossing the middle frame142, for example, in a vertical direction.

The lateral frames146are formed to cross the middle frame142in a substantially vertical direction along a length direction at both sides of the middle frame142. Here, an upper space140aand a lower space140bare formed by one surface (lower surface) of the middle frame142, lateral frames146, plate143and first recess portion141. The circuit board181is provided on one surface (upper surface) of the middle frame142, and the battery191is provided on the other surface (lower surface) of the frame140. In other words, the circuit board181may be provided in the upper space140aand the battery191may be provided in the lower space140b.

Furthermore, an upper frame144coupled to the plate143and first recess portion141while covering the circuit board181is formed at an upper side of the circuit board181. The upper frame144is formed with a third recess portion144ato have a flexible printed circuit board144b. The flexible printed circuit board144bis electrically connected to the circuit board181provided in the upper space140a, and a dome144cand a light source144dare provided on an upper surface of the flexible printed circuit board144b, and the audio input module161is provided at an end portion of the flexible printed circuit board144b. The dome144cmay be user to perform a function of actuating the image capturing apparatus100when pressing the button111formed on the body110or change a capture mode. For example, a first button111aperforms a function for supplying or blocking power, and a second button111bperforms a function of changing a capture mode such as image capture or video capture during the operation of the image capturing apparatus100.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2again, an upper surface of the body110is double injected along with a light guide member118with a transparent or semi-transparent material, thereby easily transferring light due to the light source144dprovided on the flexible printed circuit board144bto an outside. Certain information may be provided to a user by a method of turn on/off or blinking light due to the light source144d. The light guide member118is provided at a position facing the light source144d, and the light guide member118may include an exposure portion119from which a predetermined region is exposed, and formed along a length direction at an inner side of the body110forming an outer appearance, and the exposure portion119may be preferably located in a direct upward direction of the light source144d. The light guide member118may be poly carbonate (PC) material, but may not be particularly limited as far as it is transparent or semi-transparent material.

As described above, light due to the light source144dmay be transferred to an outside through the exposure portion119exposed to the outside through the light guide member118while at the same enhancing rigidity adjacent to the button111of the body110.

The light source144dmay be an LED emitted in three colors, or three colors with red, green and blue or formed with three colors other than those.

Blue light may be emitted when an image (including a picture or video) is transmitted to a terminal200through WiFi, and red light may be emitted when the image is transmitted to a server300through LTE. Furthermore, light may be continuously emitted in a video capture mode, and the light source144dmay be blinking in a capture standby mode, thereby notifying a user of the current status of the image capturing apparatus100.

Furthermore, there may be provided one or more buttons111, and two buttons are illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, but the present disclosure may not be necessarily limited to this. The button111may include a pressing portion115formed to form an outer appearance of the body110, and exposed to an outside and pressed by a user and an actuator116extended from one surface of the pressing portion115to press the dome144c. The exposure surface of the exposure portion119has a shape concave toward a lower portion thereof, and the actuator116is protruded in a convex manner toward the lower portion (dome144c). Furthermore, a variable portion117concave toward the lower portion to be easily stretched when pressing the button111is formed between the exposure portion119and the body110. The variable portion117is formed in a circular shape along an outer edge of the exposure portion119. When the button111is pressed by the variable portion117, the feeling of pressing the button111may be transferred to the user.

Moreover, the light guide member118is formed to avoid a region provided with the button111to allow the actuator116to be easily brought into contact with the dome144c. For example, when the light guide member118is formed up to a region immediately adjacent to the actuator116, the button111may not be easily pressed. The actuator116may have a semi-spherical shape, and as illustrated inFIG. 2, may be formed to be convex in a downward direction while having a predetermined angle.

FIG. 5is a view illustrating a shape of an antenna150connected to a circuit board181according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG. 12is a perspective view illustrating the circuit board181according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG. 13is a cross-sectional view illustrating the circuit board181according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Hereinafter the circuit board181according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS. 5, 12 and 13.

As described above, the circuit board181is provided on one surface of the middle frame142, the circuit board181is formed by depositing two or more sub-circuit boards181a,181b, and the sub-circuit boards181a,181bare electrically connected to each other by a flexible printed circuit board in at least one region. The circuit board181may be provided in the upper space140aof the frame140, in which the two sub-circuit boards181a,181bare connected to each other to maximize the mounting area. Here, when the sub-circuit boards181a,181bare individually used, they may be used similarly to a typical circuit board181, and according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic components192are mounted on at least one surface of the sub-circuit boards181a,181b, and shield members193for blocking electromagnetic waves due to electronic components are formed to cover the electronic components192. As illustrated inFIG. 12, the sub-circuit boards181a,181bare separated from each other by a predetermined distance, and the shield members193are disposed to face each other. A shock absorbing member194is provided between the shield members193adjacent to each other, and the shield members193are brought into contact with each other to alleviate a frictional force or shock that occurs. The shock absorbing member194has a pad shape, and may be an insulating material.

When the two sub-circuit boards181a,181bare referred to as a first and a second sub-circuit board181a,181b, the first and the second sub-circuit board181a,181bare connected to each other by a flexible printed circuit board182. Furthermore, as illustrated inFIG. 13, the first and the second sub-circuit board181a,181bmay be connected to the first and the second sub-circuit board181a,181bat least two places by a first and a second sub-circuit board182a,182b.

On the other hand, a contact terminal154ais provided on the circuit board181, and connected to a feeding terminal154bprovided on the antenna150illustrated inFIGS. 3 and 5. The feeding terminal154bis formed on a protruding portion protruded from the middle frame142, and the feeding terminal154bis electrically connected to the circuit board181through the contact terminal154a. The contact terminal154amay be a Pogo pin or C-clip, and may be an EMI sheet, and may not be particularly limited as far as it is electrically connected by contact.

As described above, the upper frame144coupled to the plate143and first recess portion141while covering the circuit board181is formed at an upper side of the circuit board181, and the third recess portion144ais formed on one surface of the upper frame144, and the flexible printed circuit board144bis formed on the third recess portion144a, and the audio input module161is connected to an end portion of the flexible printed circuit board144b, and one or more domes144care provided on one surface of the flexible printed circuit board144b, and the button111is formed in a region corresponding to the dome144con an inner surface of the body110. At least part of the flexible printed circuit board144bis surrounded by the upper frame144.

Hereinafter, the first cover120and second cover130covering a front and a rear surface of the body110will be described. The first cover120may be referred to as a front cover since it covers a front surface of the body110, and the second cover130may be referred to as a rear cover since it covers a rear surface of the body110.

FIG. 10is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating portion “C” inFIG. 2, andFIG. 11is a perspective view in which the first cover120according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is seen from an inside perspective. Referring toFIGS. 2, 10 and 11, a lens accommodation portion121protruded toward the lens assembly160is formed on an inner surface of the first cover120, and the lens accommodation portion121has a shape corresponding to the lens assembly160, and for an example, it is illustrated to have a cylindrical shape. The lens accommodation portion121is extended toward an inside of the body110from an inner surface of the first cover120, and the first cover120may be coupled to the body110by an adhesive tape adhesive tape175. The adhesive tape175is formed along an edge of the inner surface of the first cover120, and a waterproof member accommodation portion122into which a third waterproof member163is inserted is formed in a recessed shape between the lens accommodation portion121and the adhesive tape175. The waterproof structure will be described later.

On the other hand,FIG. 6Ais a view in which the second cover130according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is seen from an inside perspective, andFIG. 6Bis a view in which the body110according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is seen from an outside perspective, andFIG. 6Cis a view in which a configuration in which the second cover130according to an embodiment of the present disclosure covers a rear surface of the body110is seen in a rear side. In other words, a surface illustrated inFIG. 6Aand a surface illustrated inFIG. 6Bare surfaces facing to each other, and the second cover130is coupled to the body110by a screw170or adhesive tape175(including an adhesive agent). Furthermore,FIG. 7is an enlarged view illustrating portion “B” inFIG. 2, andFIG. 8is a perspective view illustrating the second cover130including a cap portion135according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS. 6A through 8.

The second cover130according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a fastening portion131in a plate shape fastened to the body110and provided with a second recess portion recessed toward in an inward direction of the body110, and a cap portion135, one side of which is rotatably coupled to the fastening portion131to open or close the second recess portion132. The fastening portion131has a shape corresponding to a cross-section of the body110, and the second recess portion132recessed toward the body110is formed at a central portion thereof, and the cap portion135is coupled to one side of the second recess portion132to open or close the second recess portion132.

An identification module may be inserted into the plate143, and the identification module as a chip stored with various information for authenticating the use authority of the image capturing apparatus100, may include a user identify module (UIM), a subscriber identity module (SIM), a universal subscriber identity module (USIM), and the like. A device (hereinafter, “identification device”) provided with the identification module may be fabricated in a smart card type. Accordingly, the identification device may be connected to the terminal200through the interface unit.

For example, a secure digital (SD) card or SIM card may be inserted into a plurality of through holes145,145aformed on the plate143, and may be a USB port (interface unit). A plurality of through holes133,145bcommunicating with the plurality of through holes145,145aformed on the plate143are formed on the second recess portion132, an SD card or SIM card may be inserted thereinto in a state that the cap portion135is open, and may be used as a USB port for charging or data transmission.

Hereinafter, the waterproof structure of the image capturing apparatus100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The waterproof structure may be essentially required when the image capturing apparatus100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is used outdoor. However, as described above, when the cap portion135is open to insert a SD card or SIM card into the body110or charge using a USB port, the cap portion135should be open or closed. A waterproof structure for disallowing water from being infiltrated into the body110is required while opening or closing the cap portion135.

First, referring toFIGS. 7 and 8, a first waterproof member136formed in close contact with the second recess portion132to seal the through hole133formed on the second recess portion132is formed on an inner surface of the cap portion135facing the second recess portion132. The first waterproof member136is protruded toward the second recess portion132to limit a region slightly smaller than that corresponding to the region of the second recess portion132. In other words, a region of the first waterproof member136is formed to be larger than that including the through hole133to prevent water from being infiltrated through the through hole133formed on the second recess portion132The first waterproof member136may be rubber, and will be sufficient as far as it is an elastic waterproof material.

The image capturing apparatus100is primarily waterproofed by the first waterproof member136.

Furthermore, referring toFIGS. 6A and 7, a second waterproof member134for limiting an area larger than that of the cap portion135is formed on an inner surface of the second cover130, namely, a surface facing the body110. The first waterproof member136may be rubber, and formed by a dispensing method. In other words, the second waterproof member134formed in close contact with the plate143to seal a plurality of through holes145,145bformed on the plate143is formed on an inner surface of the fastening portion131facing the plate143. The second waterproof member134is closely adhered to a waterproof member forming region143aformed on the plate143as illustrated inFIG. 6B.

Water that can be introduced into a gap between the body110and the second cover130may be blocked by the second waterproof member134. In other words, the image capturing apparatus100is secondarily waterproofed by the second waterproof member134.

Furthermore, referring toFIGS. 2an10, the first recess portion141has a shape corresponding to the lens assembly160, and an audio input module accommodation portion141ainto which the audio input module161is accommodated is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the first recess portion141, and the third waterproof member163is provided between the audio input module accommodation portion141aand an inner surface of the first cover120. The third waterproof member163, which is a Gore-Tex material, is a material for allowing air to pass therethrough but blocking water. In other words, an audio input hole114ais formed on the window114to record external audio by the audio input module161, and audio that has passed through the audio input hole114ashould be introduced up to the audio input module161, and for the purpose of this, the third waterproof member163should be a material for allowing audio to pass therethrough. Furthermore, a rubber member162for surrounding the audio input module161may be provided in the audio input module accommodation portion141a, thereby preventing the damage of the audio input module161due to a direct contact between the audio input module161and the audio input module accommodation portion141a. In other words, the rubber member162performs a function of alleviating shock applied to the audio input module161. The rubber member162may perform a waterproof function, but does not allow audio to pass therethrough, and thus has a more advantage in alleviating shock. Furthermore, the rubber member162is not allowed to block audio that has passed through the audio input hole114a, and hole162ashould be formed thereon, and a hole141b(refer toFIG. 3) should be also formed at the audio input module accommodation portion141ato communicate with the audio input hole114a. In other words, the present disclosure is disposed in the order of the rubber member162, audio input module accommodation portion141a, third waterproof member163, first cover120, adhesive tape175and window114toward an outside from the audio input module161. Here, an audio input path is formed to communicate by the rubber member162, audio input module accommodation portion141a, first cover120, adhesive tape175and window114.

The image capturing apparatus100may be waterproofed in a threefold manner by the third waterproof member163.

As illustrated inFIGS. 10 and 11, the waterproof member accommodation portion122in which the third waterproof member163is accommodated is formed at an inner surface of the first cover120, and the light guide member118and an inner surface of the first cover120may be coupled to each other by the adhesive tape175.

On the other hand, referring toFIG. 7, a screw hole171a,171bis formed on a outer surface of the body110, and a screw insert172is provided in the screw hole171a,171b, and the screw170is fastened to the screw insert172, thereby sealing a portion at which the body110is fastened to the first cover120or second cover130. InFIG. 7, the sealing of a portion fastened to the second cover130is mainly illustrated, but the present disclosure may not be necessarily limited to this, the structure of the screw insert172may be introduced to seal a portion at which the first cover120is fastened to the body110.

In this manner, water introduced into a gap between the body110and the second cover130may be blocked by the structure of the screw insert172. The image capturing apparatus100is waterproofed in a fourfold manner by the structure of the screw insert172. If there is water introduced through the structure of the screw insert172, the water introduced into the frame140may be blocked by the second waterproof member134.

Here, the screw hole171aformed on the fastening portion131and the screw hole171formed on the body110are communicated with each other, and thus the screw170is inserted thereinto, and the screw insert172may be formed at only part of an upper side of the screw hole171formed on the body110.

On the other hand, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as illustrated inFIGS. 6A and 6B, an audio output hole145ais formed on the plate143, and a through hole145bis also formed on the fastening portion131to transfer audio outputted through the audio output hole145ato an outside, and a fifth waterproof member148with a Gore-Tex material capable of allowing audio to pass through the through hole145bbut blocking water therethrough.

Hereinafter,FIG. 8is a perspective view illustrating the second cover130according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, andFIG. 9is a view for explaining the switching operation of the cap portion135and fastening portion131according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is a partially cross-sectional view of the second cover130.

Referring toFIGS. 8 and 9, the second recess portion132if formed on the fastening portion131, and a fringe135aprotruded toward a length direction of the image capturing apparatus100, namely, in an outward direction, is formed at an edge of the fastening portion131. In other words, the fringe135ais protruded toward an outside along an edge of the fastening portion131on the fastening portion131.

Part of the cap portion135is fixed to the fastening portion131by a hinge axis137in an outer region of the second recess portion132, and the cap portion135rotates around the hinge axis137to open or close the second recess portion132. In other words, the cap portion135is coupled to or separated from the fastening portion131by a switching operation through the rotation of the cap portion135. A button portion138is provided in a region between the second recess portion132and the fringe135aas a mechanism for rotating the cap portion135, and an elastic member139for providing an elastic force to the button portion138is provided between the button portion138and the fringe135a. In other words, the button portion138is provided on an outer surface of the fastening portion131, and the button portion138is accommodated into a button groove138aformed at a lateral surface of the cap portion135, and the elastic member139for providing an elastic force to the button portion138is provided between the fringe135aand the button portion138. The cross section of the button groove138ahas a substantial “C” or “t”-shape, and part of the button portion138is inserted thereinto. In other words, when the button portion138is drawn toward the fringe135a, a protruded portion138bof the button portion138is escaped from the button groove138a, and the cap portion135is released from the button portion138, and the movement of the button portion138is limited by a stepped protrusion143bformed on the plate143. Here, the protruding portion138bis inclined toward an inner side of the body, and when the cap portion135is rotated in a state that the cap portion135is open, the cap portion135will be closed while being slid to the protruding portion138b.

Hereinafter, the embodiment of the image capturing apparatus100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

The image capturing apparatus100performs a function of capturing a still image or video and storing it in an SD card (memory card) or transmitting it to the mobile terminal200or server300.

FIGS. 14A and 14Bare views for explaining an embodiment of an image capturing apparatus100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in whichFIG. 14Ais an embodiment of carrying out direct image transmission between the image capturing apparatus100and the mobile terminal200, andFIG. 14Bis an embodiment for explaining that an image stored in the server300is seen by a plurality of users through a plurality of mobile terminals200a,200b,200c.

According to a mode illustrated inFIG. 14A, a user may obtain image information by checking the image information obtained by the image capturing apparatus100through Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), Long Term Evolution (LTE) or Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) in real time. To this end, a wireless communication unit210(refer toFIG. 16) should be provided in the image capturing apparatus100and mobile terminal200, and herein the foregoing antenna150may be functioned as an antenna150for wireless communication.

Furthermore, as illustrated inFIG. 14B, it may be used in a form in which image information obtained by the image capturing apparatus100through Long Term Evolution (LTE), Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) or the like is stored in the server300, and a plurality of mobile terminals200a,200b,200caccess the server300to download the image information stored in the server300. To this end, the antenna150capable of implementing a frequency with a LTE bandwidth should be provided, and according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first through the third antenna151,152,153are disposed therein to implement this. In other words, a resonant frequency with various bandwidths may be implemented by the first through the third antenna151,152,153, and the image information may be more quickly stored in the server300. In this manner, when the server300is used, a plurality of users may obtain image information captured by the image capturing apparatus100at the same time.

On the other hand,FIGS. 15A and 15Bare exemplary views illustrating a capture mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is a view for explaining that a user checks captured images in real time. Referring toFIGS. 15A and 15B, when the mobile terminal200and the image capturing apparatus100are connected by wired or wireless communication, a camera application in the mobile terminal200automatically executes a camera mode, and displays the display unit of the mobile terminal200divided into a first display unit255aand a second display unit256a. InFIG. 15A, it is illustrated that the entire image captured by a user is displayed in the first display unit255a, and a predetermined region of the first display unit255ais enlarged and displayed in the second display unit256a. Here, the first display unit255amay be formed in an elongated manner in a transverse direction as in a panorama mode, and a region desired to be enlarged by the user may be divided from another portion by a guide257a, and the guide257amay be displayed in a rectangular box shape.

Furthermore, the image capturing apparatus100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be a type of action camera, and when captured while moving or stopping, image information obtained by the image capturing apparatus100may be displayed in a spherical shape (sphere view, planar view) on the first display unit255aas illustrated inFIG. 15B, and allowed for a user to view a specific region while rotating it. Even at this time, for a region desired to be enlarged by the user, a specific region of the first display unit255amay be distinguished from another region by the guide257b.

Moreover, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a snap shot may be taken while shooting a video in a capture mode by the image capturing apparatus100. For example, image information captured by the image capturing apparatus100may be displayed on the first display unit255a,255b, and an object (not shown) indicating a snap shot of the mobile terminal200may be touched at a specific time point to obtain an image at a specific time point of the video being shot. It may be also allowed even in case where the video is being played back on the mobile terminal200. At this time, a snap shot image captured on the first display unit255a,255bmay be displayed on the second display unit256a,256b.

Here, when an image is displayed on the first display unit255a,255b, as illustrated inFIGS. 15A and 15B, a screen may be displayed in an elongated manner toward one direction as in a panorama mode or a spherical shaped screen may be displayed to give a three-dimensional feeling.

Hereinafter, the mobile terminal200according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

Mobile terminals described herein may include cellular phones, smart phones, laptop computers, digital broadcasting terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigators, slate PCs, tablet PCs, ultra books, wearable devices (for example, smart watches, smart glasses, head mounted displays (HMDs)), and the like.

However, it may be easily understood by those skilled in the art that the configuration according to the exemplary embodiments of this specification can also be applied to stationary terminals such as digital TV, desktop computers and the like, excluding a case of being applicable only to the mobile terminals.

Referring toFIG. 16,FIG. 16is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal associated with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The mobile terminal200may include components, such as a wireless communication unit210, an input unit220, a sensing unit240, an output unit250, an interface unit260, a memory270, a controller280, a power supply unit290and the like.FIG. 16illustrates the mobile terminal having various components, but it may be understood that implementing all of the illustrated components is not a requirement. Greater or fewer components may alternatively be implemented.

In more detail, the wireless communication unit210of those components may typically include one or more modules which permit wireless communications between the mobile terminal200and a wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal200and another mobile terminal200, or between the mobile terminal200and a network within which another mobile terminal200(or an external server) is located.

For example, the wireless communication unit210may include at least one of a broadcast receiving module211, a mobile communication module212, a wireless Internet module213, a short-range communication module214, a location information module215and the like.

The input unit220may include a camera221for inputting an image signal, a microphone222or an audio input module for inputting an audio signal, or a user input unit223(for example, a touch key, a push key (or a mechanical key), etc.) for allowing a user to input information. Audio data or image data collected by the input unit220may be analyzed and processed by a user's control command.

The sensing unit240may include at least one sensor which senses at least one of internal information of the mobile terminal, a surrounding environment of the mobile terminal and user information. For example, the sensing unit240may include a proximity sensor241, an illumination sensor242, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a G-sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a finger scan sensor, a ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (for example, refer to the camera221), a microphone222, a battery gage, an environment sensor (for example, a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detection sensor, a thermal sensor, a gas sensor, etc.), and a chemical sensor (for example, an electronic nose, a health care sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.). On the other hand, the mobile terminal disclosed herein may utilize information in such a manner of combining information sensed by at least two sensors of those sensors.

The output unit250may be configured to output an audio signal, a video signal or a tactile signal. The output unit250may include a display unit251, an audio output module252, a haptic module253, an optical output module254and the like. The display unit251may have an inter-layered structure or an integrated structure with a touch sensor so as to implement a touch screen. The touch screen may provide an output interface between the mobile terminal200and a user, as well as functioning as the user input unit223which provides an input interface between the mobile terminal200and the user.

The interface unit260may serve as an interface with various types of external devices connected with the mobile terminal200. The interface unit260, for example, may include wired or wireless headset ports, external power supply ports, wired or wireless data ports, memory card ports, ports for connecting a device having an identification module, audio input/output (I/O) ports, video I/O ports, earphone ports, or the like. The mobile terminal200may execute an appropriate control associated with a connected external device, in response to the external device being connected to the interface unit260.

The memory270may store a plurality of application programs (or applications) executed in the mobile terminal200, data for operations of the mobile terminal200, instruction words, and the like. At least some of those application programs may be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. Some others of those application programs may be installed within the mobile terminal200at the time of being shipped for basic functions of the mobile terminal200(for example, receiving a call, placing a call, receiving a message, sending a message, etc.). On the other hand, the application programs may be stored in the memory270, installed in the mobile terminal200, and executed by the controller280to perform an operation (or a function) of the mobile terminal200.

The controller280may typically control an overall operation of the mobile terminal200in addition to the operations associated with the application programs. The controller280may provide or process information or functions appropriate for a user in a manner of processing signals, data, information and the like, which are input or output by the aforementioned components, or activating the application programs stored in the memory270.

The controller280may control at least part of the components illustrated inFIG. 16, in order to drive the application programs stored in the memory270. In addition, the controller280may drive the application programs by combining at least two of the components included in the mobile terminal200for operation.

The power supply unit290may receive external power or internal power and supply appropriate power required for operating respective elements and components included in the mobile terminal200under the control of the controller280. The power supply unit290may include a battery, and the battery may be an embedded battery or a replaceable battery.

At least part of those elements and components may be combined to implement operation and control of the mobile terminal or a control method of the mobile terminal according to various exemplary embodiments described herein. Also, the operation and control or the control method of the mobile terminal may be implemented in the mobile terminal in such a manner of activating at least one application program stored in the memory270.

Hereinafter, each aforementioned component will be described in more detail with reference toFIG. 16, prior to explaining various exemplary embodiments implemented by the mobile terminal200having the configuration.

First, the wireless communication unit210will be described. The broadcast receiving module211of the wireless communication unit210may receive a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information from an external broadcast managing entity via a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel and a terrestrial channel. At least two broadcast receiving modules211may be provided in the mobile terminal200to simultaneously receive at least two broadcast channels or switch the broadcast channels.

The mobile communication module212may transmit/receive wireless signals to/from at least one of network entities, for example, a base station, an external mobile terminal, a server, and the like, on a mobile communication network, which is constructed according to technical standards or transmission methods for mobile communications (for example, Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access (CDMA), Code Division Multi Access 2000 (CDMA2000), Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only (EV-DO), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A), etc.)

Here, the wireless signals may include audio call signal, video (telephony) call signal, or various formats of data according to transmission/reception of text/multimedia messages.

The wireless Internet module213denotes a module for wireless Internet access. This module may be internally or externally coupled to the mobile terminal200. The wireless Internet module213may transmit/receive wireless signals via communication networks according to wireless Internet technologies.

Examples of such wireless Internet access may include Wireless LAN (WLAN), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wireless Fidelity Direct (Wi-Fi Direct), Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), World Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), and the like. The wireless Internet module213may transmit/receive data according to at least one wireless Internet technology within a range including even Internet technologies which are not aforementioned.

From the perspective that the wireless Internet accesses according to Wibro, HSDPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE, LTE-A and the like are executed via a mobile communication network, the wireless Internet module213which performs the wireless Internet access via the mobile communication network may be understood as a type of the mobile communication module212.

The short-range communication module214denotes a module for short-range communications. Suitable technologies for implementing the short-range communications may include BLUETOOTH™, Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra-WideBand (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Wireless Universal Serial Bus (Wireless USB) and the like. The short-range communication module214may support wireless communications between the mobile terminal200and a wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal200and another mobile terminal200, or between the mobile terminal and a network where another mobile terminal200(or an external server) is located, via wireless personal area networks.

Here, the another mobile terminal200may be a wearable device, for example, a smart watch, a smart glass or a head mounted display (HMD), which is able to exchange data with the mobile terminal200(or to cooperate with the mobile terminal200). The short-range communication module214may sense (recognize) a wearable device, which is able to communicate with the mobile terminal), near the mobile terminal200. In addition, when the sensed wearable device is a device which is authenticated to communicate with the mobile terminal200according to the present disclosure, the controller280may transmit at least part of data processed in the mobile terminal200to the wearable device via the short-range communication module214. Hence, a user of the wearable device may use the data processed in the mobile terminal200on the wearable device. For example, when a call is received in the mobile terminal200, the user may answer the call using the wearable device. Also, when a message is received in the mobile terminal200, the user may check the received message using the wearable device.

The location information module215denotes a module for detecting or calculating a position of the mobile terminal. An example of the location information module215may include a Global Position System (GPS) module or a Wi-Fi module. For example, when the mobile terminal uses the GPS module, a position of the mobile terminal may be acquired using a signal sent from a GPS satellite. As another example, when the mobile terminal uses the Wi-Fi module, a position of the mobile terminal may be acquired based on information related to a wireless access point (AP) which transmits or receives a wireless signal to or from the Wi-Fi module. According to the need, the location information module215may perform any function of the other modules of the wireless communication unit210to obtain data on the location of the mobile terminal. As a module used to acquire the location (or current location) of the mobile terminal, the location information module215may not be necessarily limited to a module for directly calculating or acquiring the location of the mobile terminal.

Hereinafter, the input unit220will be described in more detail. The input unit220may be configured to provide an audio or video signal (or information) input to the mobile terminal or information input by a user to the mobile terminal. For the input of the audio information, the mobile terminal200may include one or a plurality of cameras221. The camera221may process image frames of still pictures or video obtained by image sensors in a video call mode or a capture mode. The processed image frames may be displayed on the display unit251. On the other hand, the plurality of cameras221disposed in the mobile terminal200may be arranged in a matrix configuration. By use of the cameras221having the matrix configuration, a plurality of image information having various angles or focal points may be input into the mobile terminal200. Also, the plurality of cameras221may be arranged in a stereoscopic structure to acquire a left image and a right image for implementing a stereoscopic image.

The microphone222may process an external audio signal into electric audio data. The processed audio data may be utilized in various manners according to a function being executed in the mobile terminal200(or an application program being executed). On the other hand, the microphone222may include assorted noise removing algorithms to remove noise generated in the course of receiving the external audio signal.

The user input unit223may receive information input by a user. When information is input through the user input unit223, the controller280may control an operation of the mobile terminal200to correspond to the input information. The user input unit223may include a mechanical input element (or a mechanical key, for example, a button located on a front/rear surface or a side surface of the mobile terminal200, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.), and a touch-sensitive input means. As one example, the touch-sensitive input means may be a virtual key, a soft key or a visual key, which is displayed on a touch screen through software processing, or a touch key which is disposed on a portion except for the touch screen. On the other hand, the virtual key or the visual key may be displayable on the touch screen in various shapes, for example, graphic, text, icon, video or a combination thereof.

The sensing unit240may sense at least one of internal information of the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information of the mobile terminal and user information, and generate a sensing signal corresponding to it. The controller280may control an operation of the mobile terminal200or execute data processing, a function or an operation associated with an application program installed in the mobile terminal based on the sensing signal. Hereinafter, description will be given in more detail of representative sensors of various sensors which may be included in the sensing unit240.

First, a proximity sensor241refers to a sensor to sense presence or absence of an object approaching to a surface to be sensed, or an object disposed near a surface to be sensed, by using an electromagnetic field or infrared rays without a mechanical contact. The proximity sensor241may be arranged at an inner region of the mobile terminal covered by the touch screen, or near the touch screen. The proximity sensor241may have a longer lifespan and a more enhanced utility than a contact sensor.

Hereinafter, for the sake of brief explanation, a status that the pointer is positioned to be proximate onto the touch screen without contact will be referred to as ‘proximity touch,’ whereas a status that the pointer substantially comes in contact with the touch screen will be referred to as ‘contact touch.’ For the position corresponding to the proximity touch of the pointer on the touch screen, such position will correspond to a position where the pointer faces perpendicular to the touch screen upon the proximity touch of the pointer. The proximity sensor241may sense proximity touch, and proximity touch patterns (e.g., distance, direction, speed, time, position; moving status, etc.). On the other hand, the controller280may process data (or information) corresponding to the proximity touches and the proximity touch patterns sensed by the proximity sensor241, and output visual information corresponding to the process data on the touch screen. In addition, the controller280may control the mobile terminal200to execute different operations or process different data (or information) according to whether a touch with respect to the same point on the touch screen is either a proximity touch or a contact touch.

A touch sensor may sense a touch (or touch input) applied onto the touch screen (or the display unit251) using at least one of various types of touch methods, such as a resistive type, a capacitive type, an infrared type, a magnetic field type, and the like.

As one example, the touch sensor may be configured to convert changes of pressure applied to a specific part of the display unit251or a capacitance occurring from a specific part of the display unit251, into electric input signals. Also, the touch sensor may be configured to sense not only a touched position and a touched area, but also touch pressure. Here, a touch object is an object to apply a touch input onto the touch sensor. Examples of the touch object may include a finger, a touch pen, a stylus pen, a pointer or the like.

When touch inputs are sensed by the touch sensors, corresponding signals may be transmitted to a touch controller. The touch controller may process the received signals, and then transmit corresponding data to the controller280. Accordingly, the controller280may sense which region of the display unit251has been touched. Here, the touch controller may be a component separate from the controller280or the controller280itself.

On the other hand, the controller280may execute a different control or the same control according to a type of an object which touches the touch screen (or a touch key provided in addition to the touch screen). Whether to execute the different control or the same control according to the object which gives a touch input may be decided based on a current operating state of the mobile terminal200or a currently executed application program.

Meanwhile, the touch sensor and the proximity sensor may be executed individually or in combination, to sense various types of touches, such as a short (or tap) touch, a long touch, a multi-touch, a drag touch, a flick touch, a pinch-in touch, a pinch-out touch, a swipe touch, a hovering touch, and the like.

An ultrasonic sensor may be configured to recognize position information relating to a sensing object by using ultrasonic waves. The controller280may calculate a position of a wave generation source based on information sensed by an illumination sensor and a plurality of ultrasonic sensors. Since light is much faster than ultrasonic waves, a time for which the light reaches the optical sensor may be much shorter than a time for which the ultrasonic wave reaches the ultrasonic sensor. The position of the wave generation source may be calculated using the fact. In more detail, the position of the wave generation source may be calculated by using a time difference from the time that the ultrasonic wave reaches based on the light as a reference signal.

The camera221constructing the input unit220may be a type of camera sensor. The camera sensor may include at least one of a photo sensor and a laser sensor.

The camera221and the laser sensor may be combined to detect a touch of the sensing object with respect to a3D stereoscopic image. The photo sensor may be laminated on the display device. The photo sensor may be configured to scan a movement of the sensing object in proximity to the touch screen. In more detail, the photo sensor may include photo diodes and transistors at rows and columns to scan content placed on the photo sensor by using an electrical signal which changes according to the quantity of applied light. Namely, the photo sensor may calculate the coordinates of the sensing object according to variation of light to thus obtain position information of the sensing object.

The display unit251may also be implemented as a stereoscopic display unit for displaying stereoscopic images.

The stereoscopic display unit may employ a stereoscopic display scheme such as stereoscopic scheme (a glass scheme), an auto-stereoscopic scheme (glassless scheme), a projection scheme (holographic scheme), or the like.

The audio output module252may output audio data received from the wireless communication unit210or stored in the memory260in a call signal reception mode, a call mode, a record mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcast reception mode, and the like. Also, the audio output module252may also provide audible output signals related to a particular function (e.g., a call signal reception sound, a message reception sound, etc.) performed by the mobile terminal200. The audio output module252may include a receiver, a speaker, a buzzer or the like.

A haptic module253may generate various tactile effects the that user may feel. A typical example of the tactile effect generated by the haptic module253may be vibration. Strength, pattern and the like of the vibration generated by the haptic module253may be controllable by a user selection or setting of the controller. For example, the haptic module253may output different vibrations in a combining manner or a sequential manner.

Besides vibration, the haptic module253may generate various other tactile effects, including an effect by stimulation such as a pin arrangement vertically moving with respect to a contact skin, a spray force or suction force of air through a jet orifice or a suction opening, a touch on the skin, a contact of an electrode, electrostatic force, etc., an effect by reproducing the sense of cold and warmth using an element that can absorb or generate heat, and the like.

The haptic module253may be implemented to allow the user to feel a tactile effect through a muscle sensation such as the user's fingers or arm, as well as transferring the tactile effect through a direct contact. Two or more haptic modules253may be provided according to the configuration of the mobile terminal200.

An optical output module254may output a signal for indicating an event generation using light of a light source. Examples of events generated in the mobile terminal200may include a message reception, a call signal reception, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notice, an email reception, an information reception through an application, and the like.

A signal output by the optical output module254may be implemented in such a manner that the mobile terminal emits monochromatic light or light with a plurality of colors. The signal output may be terminated as the mobile terminal senses a user's event checking.

The interface unit260may serve as an interface with every external device connected with the mobile terminal200. For example, the interface unit260may receive data transmitted from an external device, receive power to transfer to each element within the mobile terminal200, or transmit internal data of the mobile terminal200to an external device. For example, the interface unit260may include wired or wireless headset ports, external power supply ports, wired or wireless data ports, memory card ports, ports for connecting a device having an identification module, audio input/output (I/O) ports, video I/O ports, earphone ports, or the like.

The identification module may be a chip that stores various information for authenticating authority of using the mobile terminal200and may include a user identity module (UIM), a subscriber identity module (SIM), a universal subscriber identity module (USIM), and the like. In addition, the device having the identification module (referred to as ‘identifying device’, hereinafter) may take the form of a smart card. Accordingly, the identifying device may be connected with the terminal200via the interface unit260.

When the mobile terminal200is connected with an external cradle, the interface unit260may serve as a passage to allow power from the cradle to be supplied to the mobile terminal200therethrough or may serve as a passage to allow various command signals input by the user from the cradle to be transferred to the mobile terminal therethrough. Various command signals or power input from the cradle may operate as signals for recognizing that the mobile terminal is properly mounted on the cradle.

The memory270may store programs for operations of the controller280and temporarily store input/output data (for example, phonebook, messages, still images, videos, etc.). The memory270may store data related to various patterns of vibrations and audio which are output in response to touch inputs on the touch screen.

The memory270may include at least one type of storage medium including a Flash memory, a hard disk, a multimedia card micro type, a card-type memory (e.g., SD or DX memory, etc), a Random Access Memory (RAM), a Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), a Programmable Read-Only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. Also, the mobile terminal200may be operated in relation to a web storage device that performs the storage function of the memory270over the Internet.

As aforementioned, the controller280may typically control the general operations of the mobile terminal200. For example, the controller280may set or release a lock state for restricting a user from inputting a control command with respect to applications when a status of the mobile terminal meets a preset condition.

The power supply unit290may receive external power or internal power and supply appropriate power required for operating respective elements and components included in the mobile terminal200under the control of the controller280. The power supply unit290may include a battery. The battery may be an embedded battery which is rechargeable or be detachably coupled to the terminal body for charging.

The power supply unit290may include a connection port. The connection port may be configured as one example of the interface unit260to which an external (re)charger for supplying power to recharge the battery is electrically connected.

On the other hand, various embodiments described herein may be implemented in a computer-readable or its similar medium using, for example, software, hardware, or any combination thereof.

The foregoing present invention may be implemented as codes readable by a computer on a medium written by the program. The computer-readable media may include all kinds of recording devices in which data readable by a computer system is stored. Examples of the computer-readable media may include ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device, and the like, and also include a device implemented in the form of a carrier wave (for example, transmission via the Internet). In addition, the computer may include the controller180of the mobile terminal. Accordingly, the detailed description thereof should not be construed as restrictive in all aspects but considered as illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims and all changes that come within the equivalent scope of the invention are included in the scope of the invention.