Electronic device

An electronic device including a detection sensor is disclosed. The electronic device may include: a housing structure including a first housing and a second housing movably coupled to the first housing in a moving direction, a flexible display supported by the first housing and the second housing, and having a size of a display area visible at a front surface of the housing structure configured to change based on relative movement by the second housing with respect to the first housing, a detection sensor including a first electrode and a second electrode disposed side by side, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and configured to detect a change in the size of the display area, and a processor.

BACKGROUND

The disclosure relates to an electronic device according to various example embodiments.

2. Description of Related Art

An electronic device of which a size of a display exposed to the outside changes depending on a using state has been developed. For example, an exposed area of a display of a slidable electronic device may change based on an operation. In case of a device of which an exposed area of a display changes, various sensing methods are used for detecting the exposed area of the display to display an appropriate visual image corresponding to the exposed area of the display.

An electronic device including a slidable display, of which a size of a display area exposed to an outside changes based on an operation by a housing, may use various sensing methods of detecting the size of the exposed area of the display, for example, sensing methods using an encoder, a magnet, and a sensor. Since the sensor configured to detect the size of the exposed area of the display occupies an internal space of the electronic device, the space efficiency of the electronic device may be improved by minimizing a space for mounting the sensor. In addition, since the electronic device includes an outlet region for inserting or withdrawing the display, various methods of preventing moisture inflow into the outlet region may be used.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an electronic device with a flexible display in which, through a detection sensor disposed in a region where a flexible display is inserted into or withdrawn from, a display area, which is exposed (e.g., visible) to an outside, of the flexible display may be intuitively detected.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an electronic device with a flexible display in which an erroneous operation of an electronic device caused by an external signal may be prevented and/or reduced by forming the detection sensor to have a unique pattern.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an electronic device with a flexible display in which a submersion of an electronic device may be prevented and/or reduced at an early stage and damage caused by the submersion of the electronic device may be minimized and/or reduce by detecting a sensor value, which varies based on moisture inflow, obtained by a detection sensor.

Example embodiments of the disclosure may provide an electronic device including: a housing structure including a first housing, a second housing movably coupled to the first housing in a moving direction; a flexible display supported by the first housing and the second housing, and having a size of a display area visible at a front surface of the housing structure configured to change based on relative movement by the second housing with respect to the first housing; a detection sensor including a first electrode and a second electrode, disposed side by side, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and configured to detect a change in the size of the display area; and a processor, and wherein the housing structure may include: an outlet, through which the flexible display is configured to be withdrawn from an internal space to the front surface of the housing structure or in which the flexible display is inserted from the front surface to the internal space, on the front surface of the housing structure, the detection sensor may be disposed on a part of the housing structure, adjacent to the outlet, wherein the first electrode faces a surface of the flexible display passing through the outlet, and the detection sensor may include a first portion having a length direction, and one or more second portions protruding from the first portion to one direction.

Example embodiments of the disclosure may provide an electronic device including: a first housing; a second housing at least a portion of which partially overlaps with the first housing, and is movably coupled to the first housing in a moving direction; a flexible display having at least a portion mounted to a surface of the second housing, at least another portion is accommodated in an internal space formed by the first housing, and a size of a display area visible through surfaces of the first housing and the second housing is configured to change based on relative movement by the second housing with respect to the first housing; a detection sensor having a capacitance configured to change based on a degree of moisture inflow, and including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; and a processor, and wherein the first housing may include an outlet through which the flexible display is configured to be withdrawn from the internal space to the surface of the first housing or the second housing, or the flexible display is configured to be inserted to the internal space from the surface, the detection sensor may be disposed on an inner surface of the first housing adjacent to the outlet, and the processor may be configured to determine the degree of moisture inflow into the internal space based on a change of a capacitance value generated by the detection sensor.

Example embodiments of the disclosure may provide a method of controlling a display screen of an electronic device, the method including: detecting insertion or withdrawal of a display through an outlet; detecting a detection sensor through the display; determining whether a detected pattern of the detection sensor matches a specified pattern of the detection sensor; based on the detected pattern of the detection sensor matching the specified pattern of the detection sensor, identifying an area in which the detection sensor is detected on the display; calculating a size of a display area of the display visible to the outside based on the identified detection sensor detecting area of the display; and displaying visual information corresponding to the calculated size of the display area of the display.

According to various example embodiments, a size of a display area of a flexible display may be accurately detected by applying a signal to an inserting and withdrawing region of the flexible display through a detection sensor disposed on the outlet of a housing structure.

According to various example embodiments, misrecognition of a signal may be prevented and/or reduced by a detection sensor which has a unique shape to secure visibility of a signal pattern of the detection sensor.

According to various example embodiments, submersion of an electronic device may be prevented and/or reduced at an early stage and damage caused by the submersion of the electronic device may be minimized and/or reduced by detecting a senor value, which varies based on moisture inflow, obtained by a detection sensor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, various example embodiments will be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing the example embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, like reference numerals refer to like elements and a repeated description related thereto may be omitted.

The program140may be stored as software in the memory130, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS)142, middleware144, or an application146.

The interface177may support one or more specified protocols to be used by the electronic device101to couple with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an example embodiment, the interface177may include, for example, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

The haptic module179may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or an electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his or her tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. According to an example embodiment, the haptic module179may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

The camera module180may capture a still image and moving images. According to an example embodiment, the camera module180may include one or more lenses, image sensors, ISPs, or flashes.

The power management module188may manage power supplied to the electronic device101. According to an example embodiment, the power management module188may be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery189may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device101. According to an example embodiment, the battery189may include, for example, a primary cell, which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell, which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

At least some of the components described above may be coupled mutually and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) therebetween via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., a bus, a general purpose input and output (GPIO), a serial peripheral interface (SPI), or a mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)).

FIG.2Ais a front perspective view of an electronic device in a closed state according to various embodiments, andFIG.2Bis a front perspective view of the electronic device in an open state, according to various embodiments.FIG.3Ais a rear perspective view of the electronic device in a closed state according to various embodiments, andFIG.3Bis a rear perspective view of the electronic device in an open state, according to various embodiments.

An electronic device201ofFIG.2Amay be at least partially similar to the electronic device101ofFIG.1, or may further include other example embodiments of an electronic device.

Referring toFIGS.2A to3B, the electronic device201according to various example embodiments may include a housing structure including a first housing210and a second housing220that is at least partially and movably coupled to the first housing210. According to an example embodiment, the first housing210may include a first plate211and a first side frame212that extends in a substantially vertical direction (e.g., a z-axis direction) along an edge of the first plate211. According to an example embodiment, the first side frame212may include a first side surface2121, a second side surface2122extending from one end of the first side surface2121, and a third side surface2123extending from the other end of the first side surface2121. According to an example embodiment, the first housing210may include a first space that is at least partially closed from the outside by the first plate211and the first side frame212.

According to various example embodiments, the second housing220may include a second plate221and a second side frame222that extends in a substantially vertical direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) along an edge of the second plate221. According to an example embodiment, the second side frame222may include a fourth side surface2221facing away from the first side surface2121, a fifth side surface2222extending from one end of the fourth side surface2221and at least partially coupled to the second side surface2122, and a sixth side surface2223extending from the other end of the fourth side surface2221and at least partially coupled to the third side surface2123. In an example, the fourth side surface2221may extend from a structure other than the second plate221and may also be coupled to the second plate221. According to an example embodiment, the second housing220may include a second space that is at least partially closed from the outside by the second plate221and the second side frame222. According to an example embodiment, the first plate211and the second plate221may be disposed to at least partially form a rear surface of the electronic device201. For example, the first plate211, the second plate221, the first side frame212, and the second side frame222may be formed of, for example, a polymer, coated or colored glass, ceramic, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of two or more of the above materials.

According to various example embodiments, the electronic device201may include a flexible display230disposed to be supported by the first housing210and the second housing220. According to an example embodiment, the flexible display230may include a flat portion supported by the second housing220, and a bendable portion extending from the flat portion and supported by the first housing210. According to an example embodiment, the bendable portion of the flexible display230may be disposed in the first space of the first housing210not to be exposed or visible (as used herein, the terms “exposed” and “visually exposed” when used with respect to describing the flexible display may be used interchangeably with the term “visible” to indicate a degree to which the flexible display is disposed within the housing and a degree to which the flexible display is extended outside of the housing) to the outside when the electronic device201is closed, and may be exposed or visible to the outside to extend from the flat portion while being supported by the first housing210when the electronic device201is open. Accordingly, the electronic device201may be a rollable electronic device in which a display screen of the flexible display230is expanded in response to an open operation according to a movement of the first housing210from the second housing220.

According to various example embodiments, in the electronic device201, the first housing210may be at least partially inserted into the second space of the second housing220, and may be coupled to the second housing220to be movable in direction {circle around (1)}. For example, in the closed state, the electronic device201may be maintained in a state in which the first housing210and the second housing220are coupled each other such that a distance between the first side surface2121and the fourth side surface2221is a first distance d1. According to an example embodiment, in the open state, the electronic device201may be maintained in a state in which the first housing210protrudes from the second housing220to have a second interval distance d in which the first side surface2121protrudes from the fourth side surface2221by a predetermined distance d2. According to an example embodiment, the flexible display230may be supported by the first housing210and/or the second housing220such that both edges thereof are curved, in the open state.

According to various example embodiments, the electronic device201may automatically transition between the open state and the closed state by a driving unit disposed in the first space and/or the second space. For example, a processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) of the electronic device201may be configured to control an operation of the first housing210using the driving unit when an event for a transition between the open state and the closed state of the electronic device201is detected. In another example, the first housing210may manually protrude from the second housing220through a user's manipulation. In this case, the first housing210may protrude by a protrusion amount desired by the user, and thus, display sizes of a screen of the flexible display230may vary. Accordingly, the processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) of the electronic device201may display an object in various ways corresponding to a display area corresponding to a predetermined protrusion amount of the first housing210, and may control execution of an application program.

According to various example embodiments, the electronic device201may include at least one of an input device203, sound output devices206and207, sensor modules204and217, camera devices205and216, a connector port208, a key input device (not illustrated), or an indicator (not illustrated). In another example embodiment, at least one of the components described above of the electronic device201may be omitted, or the electronic device201may further include other components.

According to various example embodiments, the input device203may include a microphone203. In some example embodiments, the input device203may include a plurality of microphones203arranged to sense a direction of sound. The sound output device206and207may include an external speaker206and a phone call receiver207. In an example embodiment, when an external speaker206is disposed in the first housing210, sound may be output through a hole of speaker206formed in the second housing220in the closed state. According to an example embodiment, the microphone203and the connector port208may also be formed to have substantially the same configuration. In an example embodiment, the sound output devices206and207may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without a separate speaker hole206.

According to various example embodiments, the sensor modules204and217may generate an electrical signal or a data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device201or an external environmental state. The sensor modules204and217may include, for example, a first sensor module204(e.g., a proximity sensor or an illuminance sensor) disposed on a front surface of the second housing220, and/or a second sensor module217(e.g., a heart rate monitoring (HRM) sensor) disposed on a rear surface of the second housing220. According to an example embodiment, the first sensor module204may be disposed below the flexible display230in the second housing220. According to an example embodiment, the first sensor module204may further include at least one of a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, a time of flight (TOF) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a fingerprint recognition sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor.

According to various example embodiments, the camera devices205and216may include a first camera device205disposed on the front surface of the second housing220of the electronic device201, and a second camera device216disposed on the rear surface of the second housing220. According to an example embodiment, the electronic device201may include a flash218located near the second camera device216. According to an example embodiment, the camera devices205and216may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an ISP. According to an example embodiment, the first camera device205may be disposed under the flexible display230, and may be configured to capture an object through a portion of an active area of the flexible display230. According to an example embodiment, the flash218may include, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED) or a xenon lamp. In some example embodiments, two or more lenses (e.g., a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface of the electronic device201.

According to various example embodiments, the electronic device201may include at least one antenna (not shown). According to an example embodiment, the at least one antenna may wirelessly communicate with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device104ofFIG.1), or may wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging. According to an example embodiment, the antenna may include a legacy antenna, a mmWave antenna, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. In an example embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed through at least a portion of the first side frame212and/or the second side frame222, which are formed of metal.

For convenience of description,FIGS.2A and3Billustrate an example in which an area of the flexible display230exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside of the electronic device201expands in a −x-axis direction (e.g., a left direction), however a direction in which the flexible display230of the electronic device201expands is not limited thereto. In an example embodiment, the electronic device201may operate such that an area of the flexible display230exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside expands in a +x-axis direction (e.g., a right direction), a +y-axis direction (e.g., an up direction), or a −y-axis direction (e.g., a down direction). In case the area of the flexible display230exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside expands in a horizontal direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) or a vertical direction (e.g., the y-axis direction), the area thereof may expand in one direction or various directions. For example, in case the electronic device201operates such that the flexible display230exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside expands in the x-axis direction (e.g., a left direction or a right direction), the flexible display230may expand in any of the −x-axis direction (e.g., the left direction) or the +x-axis direction (e.g., the right direction), or may expand both in the −x-axis direction and the +x-axis direction. In addition, in case the electronic device201operates such that the flexible display230expands in the vertical direction (e.g., the y-axis direction), the flexible display230may expand in any of the up direction (e.g. the +y-axis direction) or the down direction (e.g., the −y-axis direction), or may expand in both of the up direction and the down direction. Although various example embodiments will be described below under the assumption that the flexible display230expands in the −x-axis direction for convenience of description, an implementation method of each example embodiment is not limited thereto.

FIG.4Ais a cross-sectional view of an electronic device in a first state according to various embodiments,FIG.4Bis a cross-sectional view of the electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments,FIGS.5A,5B and5Care perspective views of a detection sensor according to various embodiments, andFIGS.6A and6Bare diagrams illustrating example detection data obtained by a detection sensor of display based on an operation of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.4A,4B, and5A, an electronic device401(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIG.1and the electronic device201ofFIG.2A) according to various example embodiments may include a housing structure400, a flexible display430, a detection sensor440, and a processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1).

In an example embodiment, the housing structure400may include a first housing410and a second housing420forming an exterior of the electronic device401. The first housing410and the second housing420may be partially and movably connected. For example, the second housing420may be coupled to the first housing410to be movable in a moving direction D (e.g., an X-axis direction ofFIG.4A) with respect to the first housing410. In an example embodiment, the size of an internal space403of the electronic device401, that is, the internal space403formed by the first housing410and the second housing420, may vary based on a relative movement of the first housing410and the second housing420. For example, the first housing410and the second housing420may be relatively moved by an operation of the electronic device401such that a state may change between a first state (e.g., the closed state ofFIG.2A) in which the size of the internal space403is minimized and/or reduced, as shown inFIG.4A, and a second state (e.g., the open state ofFIG.2B) in which the size of the internal space403is maximized and/or enlarged, as shown inFIG.4B.

In an example embodiment, the housing structure400may include an outlet402formed on a front surface direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction ofFIG.4A) of the housing structure400. In an example embodiment, the outlet402may cause the internal space403of the housing structure to communicate with the outside by being formed between the first housing410and the second housing420. In an example embodiment, the outlet402may be formed to have a formation direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction ofFIG.4A) perpendicular to the moving direction D while facing a front surface (e.g., a surface facing a +Z-axis ofFIG.4A) of the housing structure400. In an example embodiment, during a moving process of the second housing420with respect to the first housing410, a portion of the flexible display430may move through the outlet402. In this case, a length in the formation direction of the outlet402may be formed to be greater than a length in a formation direction of the flexible display430.

In an example embodiment, the flexible display430may be supported by the first housing410and the second housing420, and may be visually exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside, for example, a front surface (e.g., a top surface ofFIG.4A) of the housing structure400, of the electronic device401through a display area. In an example embodiment, a size of a display area A, which is exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside, of the flexible display430may change based on the relative movement of the first housing410and the second housing420. For example, the size of the display area A of the flexible display430may vary between a first state with a minimum size A1, as shown inFIG.4A, and a second state with a maximum size A2, as shown inFIG.4B.

Hereinafter, for ease of description, an operation of relative movement of the first housing410and the second housing420is described based on an assumption that the second housing420moves in the moving direction D with respect to the first housing410.

In an example embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display430may be mounted to a surface of the housing structure400, and at least another portion of the flexible display430may be accommodated in the inside the housing structure400. For example, a portion of the flexible display430may be mounted to a surface of the second housing420, and the other portion of the flexible display430may be accommodated in the internal space403, formed by the first housing410, of the housing structure400. In an example embodiment, a portion of the flexible display430may be withdrawn to a surface of the housing structure400from the internal space403through the outlet402according to the relative movement of the second housing420with respect to the first housing410, or may be inserted into the internal space403from the surface of the housing structure400through the outlet402. In other words, a portion of the flexible display430may move between the internal space403and the surface of the housing structure400through the outlet402through an operation of the housing structure400such that the size of the display area A exposed (e.g., visible) to the surface of the housing structure400may vary.

In an example embodiment, the flexible display430may include a touch screen panel (TSP). The TSP may recognize an electrical signal applied to the flexible display430, for example, a touch input signal or a hovering signal on the flexible display430. In an example embodiment, the TSP may be selectively activated based on an operation of the electronic device401. For example, the TSP may be controlled to be activated in case a withdrawal operation of the flexible display430, that is, an operation that the second housing420moves with respect to the first housing410, is detected.

In an example embodiment, the flexible display430may include an unbreakable (UB)-type organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display (e.g., a curved display) including a micro-LED, or an OLED. In an example embodiment, the flexible display430may include an on cell touch active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) (OCTA)-type display. However, the type of the flexible display430is not limited to the example described above, and the flexible display430may be formed in various ways (e.g., an add-on type or an in-cell type).

In an example embodiment, the flexible display430may include a display panel, a protective film (or a window) stacked on a front surface of the display panel, and a cover panel attached to a rear surface of the display panel. In an example embodiment, the protective film, which is a thin film layer formed of a transparent material, may be formed as a thin film to protect the display panel from the surroundings and to support the flexibility of the display panel. In an example embodiment, the protective film may include a plastic film (e.g., a polyimide film) or thin glass (e.g., ultra-thin glass (UTG)).

In an example embodiment, the cover panel may prevent and/or inhibit the display panel from being twisted or bent. In an example embodiment, the cover panel may include a plurality of layers to implement each function. The plurality of layers included in the cover panel may be stacked via an adhesive member. For example, the cover panel may include an embo layer, a buffer layer, or a metal layer. In an example embodiment, the embo layer may block light incident from the outside. The embo layer may be black-coated to prevent and/or reduce components in the internal space403from being visually exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside through the display area of the flexible display430. In an example embodiment, the buffer layer may absorb an impact applied to the flexible display430to prevent and/or reduce damage to the flexible display430. For example, the buffer layer may include a sponge layer or a cushion layer. In an example embodiment, the metal layer may prevent and/or reduce the flexible display430from being twisted or bent, and may perform a function of dispersing heat generated from components placed in the internal space403of the electronic device401or the flexible display430itself over the entire area of the flexible display430to dissipate the heat. In an example embodiment, the metal layer may include a composite sheet and a copper sheet. The composite sheet may be, for example, a sheet obtained by processing several sheets with different properties, and may include at least one of polyimide and graphite. The composite sheet may also be formed as a single sheet formed of one material (e.g., polyimide or graphite).

The detection sensor440may be used for detecting a change in the size of the display area. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor440may be disposed on an inner surface of the housing structure400, adjacent to the outlet402, for example, an inner side surface of the first housing410, adjacent to the outlet402. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor440may be disposed to face a surface of the flexible display430placed on the outlet402. In this case, the detection sensor440may be maintained in a state in which the detection sensor440is facing a portion of the flexible display430regardless of an operation of the electronic device401. For example, regardless of a process of changing the size of the display area between the first state inFIG.4Aand the second state inFIG.4B, since a portion of the flexible display430is placed on the outlet402, the detection sensor440may face an area, placed on the outlet402, of the flexible display430.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor440may have its own capacitance. For example, the detection sensor440may include a first electrode541aand a second electrode541b, which include a conductive material and are disposed side by side at an interval, and a dielectric542disposed between the first electrode541aand the second electrode541b. In this case, the detection sensor440may function as a capacitor having a predetermined (e.g., specified) capacitance. In an example embodiment, in case the first electrode541aand the second electrode541bhave the same size, a capacitance value of the detection sensor440may be determined by Equation 1 shown below.
CS=εs*(S/d)  Equation 1

CS=A capacitance value of the detection sensor.

εs=permittivity of the dielectric, S=size of electrode, d=interval between the electrodes

In an example embodiment, the dielectric542may be formed of a water absorbent material, such as sponge or paper. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor440may be disposed on the housing structure400such that the first electrode541bfaces a surface, which passes through the outlet402, of the flexible display430. For example, the second electrode541bof the detection sensor440may be connected to an inner surface of the first housing410, and the first electrode541amay be disposed to face the flexible display430. According to the structure described above, the detection sensor440may apply a hovering input signal or a touch input by capacitance to an area of the flexible display430adjacent to the detection sensor440, that is, a display area, which passes through the outlet402. Accordingly, a signal applied by the detection sensor440may be recognized through the flexible display430or the TSP.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor440may be formed in a shape having a predetermined signal pattern. Since a signal pattern, which is recognized through the flexible display430, of the detection sensor440is determined by the shape of the detection sensor440, by being formed to have a predetermined shape, the detection sensor440may form a signal pattern discriminated from another signal (e.g., an erroneous touch by the user of the flexible display430). In an example embodiment, the detection sensor440may include a first portion5401having a length direction L, one or more second portions5402protruding in one direction from the first portion5401. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor440may be disposed such that the length direction L of the first portion5401is parallel with the formation direction of the outlet402. In other words, in a state facing a front surface of the housing structure400, the detection sensor440may be disposed such that the length direction L of the first portion5401is perpendicular to the moving direction D of the second housing420with respect to the first housing410. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor440may be disposed such that the first portion5401is facing the front surface of the housing structure400. For example, the detection sensor440may be disposed such that the first portion5401is relatively facing toward the outside of a housing, compared to the second portion5402.

In an example embodiment, in case a plurality of second portions5402is formed in the detection sensor440, the plurality of second portions5402may protrude in a predetermined direction with respect to the first portion5401. For example, the detection sensor440may be formed in a shape including two second portions5402formed at both end portions of the length direction L of the first portion5401. However, the shape of the detection sensor440is not limited to the example shown inFIG.5A. For example, detection sensors440′ and440″ may be respectively formed to include a plurality of second portions5402′ and5402″ protruding from one or more portions of the first portion5401, as shown inFIGS.5B and5C, and in case the detection sensor440includes the plurality of second portions5402, a shape or a length of each of the second portions5402may be same or different to the other.

According to the structure described above, the processor may determine whether an electrical signal applied to the flexible display430is an electrical signal of the detection sensor440through a signal pattern applied to the flexible display430. For example, in case the detection sensor440has the shape shown inFIG.5A, a pattern of an electrical signal applied to the flexible display430by the detection sensor440may have a similar form shown inFIG.6A. In an example embodiment, the processor may more accurately determine whether an electrical signal applied to the flexible display430is caused by the detection sensor440or by an erroneous recognition such as an erroneous touch by the user, by comparing a pattern of the electrical signal applied to the flexible display430to a set signal pattern of the detection sensor440.

In an example embodiment, the processor may detect the size of the display area of the flexible display430in real time through a signal of the detection sensor440applied to the flexible display430. In an example embodiment, in a state in which the size of the display area of the flexible display430is changing, that is, a state in which the second housing420is moving with respect to the first housing410, a relative position of the detection sensor440may change with respect to the flexible display430. For example, in a first state shown inFIG.4A, a signal of the detection sensor440, detected on the flexible display430, may be as shown inFIG.6A, and in a second state shown inFIG.4B, a signal of the detection sensor440, detected on the flexible display430, may be as shown inFIG.6B.

Accordingly, the processor may detect a relative position of the detection sensor440with respect to the flexible display430through a touch screen function or another detection structure of the flexible display430. In an example embodiment, since a signal of the detection sensor440is applied to a region, which is placed on the outlet402, of the flexible display430, the processor may detect, in real time, a degree of expansion of the flexible display430, in other words, a change in a size of the display area of the flexible display430, by detecting signal coordinates of the detection sensor440, applied to the flexible display430in real time. For example, in case an operational state of the electronic device401has changed from the first state shown inFIG.4Ato the second state shown inFIG.4B, a signal pattern of the detection sensor440, applied to the flexible display430, may change fromFIG.6AtoFIG.6B. In this case, the processor may calculate that the size of the display area A of the flexible display430changes from A1to A2, through coordinates of the signal pattern applied to the flexible display430.

In an example embodiment, the processor may determine an operational state of the electronic device401through a signal of the detection sensor440, applied to the flexible display430. For example, in case a signal of the detection sensor440applied to the flexible display430shows a first shape (e.g., the signal of the detection sensor440shown inFIG.6A), the processor may determine that the electronic device401is in a first state (e.g., the closed state shown inFIG.2A), and in case the signal of the detection sensor440, applied to the flexible display430, shows a second shape (e.g., the signal of the detection sensor440shown inFIG.6B), the processor may determine that the electronic device401is in a second state (e.g., the open state shown inFIG.2B).

FIG.7is a diagram illustrating an example operation of a display based on an operational state of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.7, an electronic device701may adjust a size of a visual image displayed on a flexible display730corresponding to a size of a display area A of the flexible display730. In an example embodiment, the electronic device701may include a housing structure700including a first housing710and a second housing720, the flexible display730, and a processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1).

In an example embodiment, a shape of the housing structure700may vary based on a relative movement of the first housing710and the second housing720. In an example embodiment, a size of a display area, exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside, of the flexible display730may change based on the relative movement of the second housing720with respect to the first housing710. For example, in case the second housing720moves in a moving direction with respect to the first housing710by a length d2, as shown inFIG.7, the display area A of the flexible display730may change from a first area A1to a second area A2. In an example embodiment, the flexible display730may display a visual image to a user through the display area A.

In an example embodiment, the processor may detect a change in a size of the display area A in real time. For example, the processor may detect the size of the display area through coordinates of a signal applied to the flexible display730by a detection sensor (e.g., the detection sensor ofFIG.4A). In an example embodiment, the processor may adjust a size of a visual image displayed on the flexible display730corresponding to the size of a detected display area A. For example, in case the display area of the flexible display730expands from the first area A1to the second area A2, the processor may expand a size of a visual image corresponding to a change in the size of the display area A and may display the visual image on the flexible display730. In an example embodiment, in case the size of the display area has changed, the processor may store an offset value based on a change in the size of the display area A from a default value, and may rearrange a position of a visual image displayed on the display area A through the stored offset value.

FIGS.8A and8Bare cross-sectional views of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.8A, an electronic device801may include a housing structure800, a flexible display830, a detection sensor840, and a grounding structure850.

In an example embodiment, the housing structure800may include a first housing810and a second housing820that is movably coupled to the first housing810. In an example embodiment, an outlet802communicating with an internal space803may be formed on a front surface of the housing structure800. For example, the outlet802may be formed between the first housing810and the second housing820.

In an example embodiment, the housing structure800may include a main ground region for maintaining a voltage applied to the electronic device801within a predetermined range. For example, the main ground region may be formed on a rear surface of the housing structure800, opposite to the front surface, on which the flexible display830is exposed (e.g., visible), of the housing structure800. For example, the main ground region may be formed inside a back glass811, in which the first housing810is disposed.

The flexible display830may be supported by the housing structure800and may include a display area exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside through the front surface of the housing structure800. In an example embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display830may be mounted to the front surface of the housing structure800, and the other portion thereof may be disposed in the internal space803of the housing structure800. In an example embodiment, a portion of the flexible display830may be withdrawn to the front surface of the housing structure800from the internal space803through the outlet802or may be inserted into the internal space803from the front surface of the housing structure800through the outlet802based on a moving operation by the second housing820with respect to the first housing810. According to the structure described above, based on an operation of relative movement of the second housing820with respect to the first housing810, a size of the display area, exposed (e.g., visible) at the front surface of the housing structure800, of the flexible display830may vary.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor840may be disposed on the housing structure800to be adjacent to the outlet802. For example, the detection sensor840may be attached to an inner surface of the first housing810, in which the outlet802is formed. The detection sensor840may apply an electrical signal based on its own capacitance to a region, which passes through the outlet, of the flexible display830.

In an example embodiment, the grounding structure850may include a grounded portion851and a current carrying portion852. In an example embodiment, the grounded portion851and the current carrying portion852may electrically connect the detection sensor840to the main ground region. In an example embodiment, the grounded portion851may be disposed on the internal space803of the housing structure800, and may be connected to the back glass811to current carrying with the back glass811, which is disposed on an outer surface of the first housing810. Accordingly, the grounded portion851may be electrically connected to the main ground region, which is disposed inside the back glass811of the electronic device801. In an example embodiment, the current carrying portion852may be disposed inside the housing structure800to electrically connect the detection sensor840to the grounded portion851. For example, the current carrying portion852may extend from the outlet802to the grounded portion851along an inner surface of the first housing810, and may be disposed on the inner surface of the first housing810such that both ends contact with the detection sensor840and the grounded portion851. In an example embodiment, the current carrying portion852may be formed as conductive tape formed of a conductive material, or a layer coated inside the housing with a conductive material. According to the structure described above, the detection sensor840may be connected to the back glass811through the grounded portion851and the current carrying portion852, and thus, may be electrically connected to the main ground region. In other words, a grounding path connecting the detection sensor840to the main ground region may be formed through the grounded portion851and the current carrying portion852.

In an example embodiment, since the outlet802causes the internal space803of the housing structure800to communicate with the outside, a surge voltage from the outside may enter the internal space803of the housing structure800through the outlet802. In this case, a current based on the surge voltage entering the internal space803of the housing structure800through the outlet802may be applied to the detection sensor840and may move to the main ground region through the grounded portion851and the current carrying portion852, and thus, an electronic component disposed in the internal space803of the housing structure800may be prevented and/or reduced from being damaged by the surge voltage.

Referring toFIG.8B, an electronic device801′, according to an example embodiment, may include the housing structure800including a first housing and a second housing, the flexible display830, the detection sensor840, and a current carrying portion860.

In an example embodiment, the current carrying portion860may be installed to the housing structure800to electrically connect the detection sensor840to a main ground region of the housing structure800. For example, the current carrying portion860may include a conductive member simultaneously contacting both the detection sensor840and the back glass811. In this case, the back glass811may be connected to a ground region of the electronic device801′. In an example embodiment, the housing structure800may include a slot provided in an inner surface of the first housing such that the housing structure800may extend from the outlet802to the back glass811, and the current carrying portion860may be seated on the slot. In this case, the detection sensor840may be disposed on the inner surface of the housing structure800to contact with the current carrying portion860. Accordingly, the current carrying portion860may form a grounding path connecting the detection sensor840to the back glass811.

FIG.9is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to various embodiments, andFIG.10is a graph illustrating a change of a signal value of a detection sensor according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.9and10, in an example embodiment, an electronic device901may include a housing structure900, a flexible display930, a detection sensor940, and a processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1).

In an example embodiment, the housing structure900may include a first housing910and a second housing920that is partially and movably coupled to the first housing910. In an example embodiment, an outlet902that causes an internal space to communicate with the outside may be formed on a front surface of the housing structure900. For example, the outlet902may be formed between the first housing910and the second housing920. In an example embodiment, the flexible display930may be supported by the housing structure900, and may be exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside through a display area, which is exposed (e.g., visible) on the front surface of the housing structure900. In an example embodiment, a size of the display area may change as a portion of the flexible display930moves between the internal space of the housing structure900and the outside based on movement of the second housing920with respect to the first housing910. In other words, the portion of the flexible display930may be withdrawn from the internal space of the housing structure900to the outside through the outlet902, or may be inserted into the internal space of the housing structure900from the outside.

The detection sensor940may be disposed on the portion of housing structure900, adjacent to the outlet902. For example, the detection sensor940may be disposed on an inner surface of the first housing910, in which the outlet902is formed. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor940may have its own capacitance, and may apply an electrical signal, based on the self-capacitance, to a region, placed on the outlet902, of the flexible display930. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor940may absorb moisture, and capacitance of the detection sensor940may vary based on an amount of absorbed moisture. For example, the detection sensor940may include a dielectric (e.g., the dielectric542ofFIG.5A), and the dielectric may be formed of a material, which may absorb moisture. In this case, when moisture flows into the detection sensor940, as shown inFIG.10, a capacitance value of the detection sensor940may increase based on an amount of moisture inflow.

In an example embodiment, the processor may determine a degree of moisture inflow into the internal space of the housing structure900through a capacitance value generated by the detection sensor940. In an example embodiment, when moisture flows into the internal space of the housing structure900from the outside through the outlet902, the detection sensor940disposed on the outlet902may absorb the moisture that flowed through an inlet, and thus, capacitance of detection sensor940may change. In this case, the electronic device901may detect a capacitance value of the detection sensor940through the flexible display930. In an example embodiment, the electronic device901may be electrically connected to the detection sensor940, and may include a detector (not shown) configured to detect a change in capacitance generated by the detection sensor.

In an example embodiment, the processor may determine a degree of submersion of the electronic device901by comparing a set reference value to the capacitance of the detection sensor940detected through the flexible display930or the detector. For example, in case the capacitance generated by the detection sensor940changes based on a degree of moisture inflow of the detection sensor940, as shown inFIG.10, when a detected capacitance of the detection sensor940exceeds the set reference value, the processor may determine that the electronic device901is submerged, and when the detected capacitance of the detection sensor940is less than the set reference value, the processor may determine that the electronic device901is not submerged. According to this process, the processor may detect whether the electronic device901is submerged at an early stage.

In an example embodiment, the processor may perform a corresponding operation based on submersion of the electronic device901. In an example embodiment, the processor may determine a degree of moisture inflow into the internal space of the housing structure900through a capacitance value of the detection sensor940, and may perform a corresponding operation, which is set based on a degree of submersion of the electronic device901. In an example embodiment, the processor may perform an operation of displaying a notification based on the degree of submersion of the electronic device901to a user. For example, a notification operation for the user may be performed by a method such as vibration of the electronic device901, generating a warning sound, and displaying a visual image on the flexible display930. In an example embodiment, in case the electronic device901is determined to be submerged, the processor may perform an operation of shutting off the power of the electronic device901or an operation of blocking the power from being applied to a main component, such as a memory, disposed in the internal space of the housing structure900. In this case, the processor may display a notification according to the power shut-off to the user. According to the method, the electronic device901may detect submersion of the electronic device901at an early stage, and may minimize and/or reduce damage to an internal component of the electronic device901due to moisture inflow.

FIG.11Ais a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to various embodiments, andFIG.11Bis a perspective view of a detection sensor according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.11A and11B, an electronic device1101, according to an example embodiment, may include a housing structure1100, a flexible display1130, a detection sensor1140, and a sweeper1143.

In an example embodiment, the housing structure1100may include a first housing1110and a second housing1120that is partially and movably coupled to the first housing1110. In an example embodiment, an internal space1103and an outlet1102communicating with the outside may be provided in the housing structure1100. For example, the outlet1102may be formed between the first housing1110and the second housing1120. In an example embodiment, the flexible display1130may be supported by the housing structure1100, and may be exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside through a front surface of the housing structure1100. In an example embodiment, according to an operation of relative movement of the first housing1110and the second housing1120, a portion of the flexible display1130may be withdrawn from the internal space1103of the housing structure1100to the outside through the outlet1102or may be inserted into the internal space1103from the outside, and thus, a size of a region of the housing structure1100exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside may change.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor1140may be disposed on the outlet1102. For example, the detection sensor1140may be disposed on an inner surface of the first housing1110, in which the outlet1102is formed. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor1140may have self-capacitance, and may apply an electrical signal to a region, which passes through the outlet1102, of the flexible display1130. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor1140may include a first electrode1141aand a second electrode1141b, which are disposed side by side at an interval and include a conductive material, and may include a dielectric1142disposed between the first electrode1141aand the second electrode1141b, and the sweeper1143. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor1140may be disposed such that the first electrode1141amay face toward a surface of the flexible display1130placed on the outlet1102. For example, the second electrode1141bof the detection sensor1140may be connected to an inner surface of the first housing1110, and the first electrode1141amay be disposed to face a region, which is placed on the outlet1102, of the flexible display1130.

In an example embodiment, the sweeper1143may be attached to an outer surface of the detection sensor1140, and may contact with a surface of a region, which passes through the outlet1102, of the flexible display1130. For example, the sweeper1143may be attached to an outer surface of the first electrode1141aof the detection sensor1140. In an example embodiment, the sweeper1143may be formed of a compressible soft material, for example, a low-density elastic body, such as sponge. In an example embodiment, embossing may be formed on a surface part of the sweeper1143contacting with a surface of the flexible display1130. In an example embodiment, the sweeper1143may be formed in a shape corresponding to the detection sensor1140. For example, as shown inFIG.11B, the sweeper1143may be formed in a shape including a first portion11401extending in a length direction L, and one or more second portions11402protruding from the first portion11401. In an example embodiment, a length direction L of the detection sensor1140may be disposed to be parallel with a formation direction of the outlet1102. In this case, the first portion11401of the sweeper1143may simultaneously contact with a region, which is placed on the outlet1102, of the flexible display1130in the length direction L.

According to the structure described above, while the flexible display1130is inserted into or is withdrawn through the outlet1102based on an operation by the electronic device1101, the sweeper1143may prevent and/or reduce a foreign material from entering the internal space1103of the housing structure1100from the outside through the outlet1102. In addition, while a portion of the flexible display1130is inserted into the internal space1103of the housing structure1100through the outlet1102, the sweeper1143may filter dust attached to a surface of a region, which passes through the outlet1102, of the flexible display1130.

FIG.12is a perspective view of a detection sensor according to various embodiments,FIG.13is a graph illustrating a change of a signal value of a detection sensor according to various embodiments, andFIG.14is a perspective view of a detection sensor according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.12, a detection sensor1240may include a plurality of detection sensors1250and1260divided from each other. For example, the detection sensor1240may include the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260. In an example embodiment, in case the detection sensor1240include a first portion12611extending to a length direction L and a second portion12612protruding from the first portion12611, the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260may divide the first portion12611into the length direction L. In this case, the second portion12612of the detection sensor1240may be included in the second detection sensor1260. In an example embodiment, in a state in which the detection sensor940is disposed on the outlet902of the housing structure900, as shown inFIG.9, the first detection sensor1250may be disposed to face the outlet902, and the second detection sensor1260may be disposed to relatively face the internal space903compared to the first detection sensor1250. In other words, the first detection sensor1250may be disposed to be adjacent to the outside of a housing structure, compared to the second detection sensor1260.

In an example embodiment, the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260may have self-capacitances, respectively. For example, the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260may respectively include first electrodes1251aand1261aconnected to each other, second electrodes1251band1261bconnected to each other, and dielectrics1252and1262disposed between the first electrodes1251aand1261aand the second electrodes1251band1261band connected to each other. In an example embodiment, the capacitances of the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260may vary depending on the amounts of moisture inflow into the dielectrics1252and1262, respectively. For example, as shown inFIG.13, capacitance values of the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260may linearly increase based on the amounts of moisture inflow into the dielectrics1252and1262.

In an example embodiment, in case the detection sensor1240is divided into the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260, whether an electronic device is submerged may be more accurately determined. For example, in a state in which the detection sensor1240is disposed on the outlet902of the housing structure900, as shown inFIG.9, the first detection sensor1250may be disposed to face the outside, and the second detection sensor1260may be disposed to face the internal space903of the housing structure900. In this case, the capacitance of the first detection sensor1250may vary based on an amount of external moisture in the outlet902, and the capacitance of the second detection sensor1260may vary based on an amount of moisture in the outlet902. The processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) may more precisely determine whether the electronic device is submerged by comparing and detecting amounts of external moisture and internal moisture of a housing structure through capacitance values of the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260.

For example, in case the capacitance of the detection sensor1240changes as shown inFIG.13, in a section in which time t is t1to t2, since the capacitance of the first detection sensor1250increases and the capacitance of the second sensor1260is constant, the processor may determine that moisture is included in the outside the housing structure, however the processor may determine that there is no moisture inflow into the housing structure. On the other hand, in a section in which time t is t2to t3, since capacitances of the first detection sensor1250and the second detection sensor1260simultaneously increase, the processor may determine that moisture is flowing into the inside of the housing structure from the outside of the housing structure. In this case, the processor may perform determining submersion based on a degree of moisture inflow into the inside of the housing structure based on the capacitance of the second detection sensor1260, and may perform a corresponding operation, which is set based on the determining of the submersion.

Referring toFIG.14, a detection sensor1440may be divided into a first detection sensor1450and a second detection sensor1460. In an example embodiment, the first detection sensor1450and the second detection sensor1460, which are divided parts, may include first electrodes1451aand1461a, second electrodes1451band1461b, and dielectrics1452and1462, respectively. In an example embodiment, an outer surface of the detection sensor1440, for example, in case a sweeper1443is attached to an outer surface of the first electrodes1451aand1461a, the detection sensor1440may include an exposed region1470, in which a portion of the first electrode1461ais omitted or absent to expose a surface of the dielectric1462. In this case, the exposed region1470may be formed in the second detection sensor1460. In other words, the second detection sensor1460may include the exposed region1470, in which a portion of the dielectric1462is not covered by the first electrode1461a.

According to the structure described above, since the second detection sensor1460is disposed to relatively face an internal space of the housing structure, compared to the first detection sensor1450, moisture that passed through the outlet may inflow into the second detection sensor1460through the sweeper1443attached to a surface of the first detection sensor1450, and may change the capacitance of the detection sensor1440by being absorbed by the dielectric1462through the exposed region1470. Accordingly, a change in the capacitance of the detection sensor1440may be induced by moisture absorption by the dielectric1462.

FIG.15is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.15, an electronic device1501may include a housing structure1500, a flexible display1530, and a detection sensor1540.

In an example embodiment, the housing structure1500may include a first housing1510and a second housing1520that is partially and movably coupled to the first housing1510. An outlet1502communicating with an internal space1503may be formed on a front surface of the housing structure1500. For example, the outlet1502may be formed between the first housing1510and the second housing1520.

In an example embodiment, the flexible display1530may be disposed to be supported by the housing structure1500, and may be exposed (e.g. visible) through the front surface of the housing structure1500. Depending on movement by the second housing1520with respect to the first housing1510, a portion of the flexible display1530may be withdrawn from the internal space1503of the housing structure1500to the outside through the outlet1502, or may be inserted into the internal space1503of the housing structure1500from the outside.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor1540may be disposed the inside of the housing structure1500, adjacent to the outlet1502, for example, an inner surface of the first housing1510. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor1540may have self-capacitance, and may apply an electrical signal to a region of the flexible display1530which passes through the outlet1502.

In an example embodiment, the housing structure1500may include a slot formed in a region in which the detection sensor1540is disposed, in other words, the slot recessed formed in an inner surface part of a housing, adjacent to the outlet1502. For example, the slot may be formed in an inner surface of the first housing1510. In an example embodiment, the slot may be formed in a shape, which is substantially the same as the detection sensor1540. In an example embodiment, sitting in the slot, the detection sensor1540may be disposed such that a surface of the detection sensor1540facing the flexible display1530does not create a step with the inner surface of the first housing1510.

According to the structure described above, even in case a size of a gap of the outlet1502is narrowly formed, the detection sensor1540does not narrow a space of the outlet1502since the detection sensor1540is inserted and installed, and thus, while the flexible display1530is passing through the outlet1502, damage, such as a scratch, or disturbing a moving operation by interference by the detection sensor1540may be prevented and/or reduced.

Hereinafter, an embodiment illustrating an example operation of an electronic device is described. In describing the operation of the electronic device, it may be understood that a description which is the same as or similar to the aforementioned description may be omitted.

FIG.16is a flowchart illustrating an example operation of controlling a display screen of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.FIG.16illustrates an example operation of controlling a screen that is displayed on a display (e.g., the flexible display430ofFIG.4A) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device401ofFIG.4A).

In the following example embodiments, operations may be performed sequentially, but not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations illustrated inFIG.16may change, and at least two of the operations may be performed in parallel. In addition, each operation illustrated inFIG.16is not necessarily performed, and an example may be performed where at least one operation is excluded.

In an example embodiment, operations illustrated inFIG.16may be performed by at least one component (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) of the electronic device.

In operation1610, a processor may detect an insertion/withdrawal operation of the display930. For example, the processor may detect an operation of relative movement of the first housing910and the second housing920, based on an expansion or contraction operation of the electronic device901. For example, through a rotational operation of a roller that supports the display930, the processor may detect an operation that the display930is withdrawn from the internal space of the housing structure900to the outside or is inserted to the internal space.

In operation1620, the processor may detect the detection sensor940. For example, the processor may detect an electrical signal applied to the display930according to the self-capacitance of the detection sensor940. In operation1620, the processor may recognize the electrical signal of the detection sensor940in case the capacitance of electrical signal falls within a stored recognition range. in the other case, when the capacitance thereof that falls outside the stored recognition range is detected on the display930, the processor may determine that the electrical signal applied to display930is noise by another signal. For example, a signal applied to the display930may be a signal by a contact with the detection sensor940or a hovering signal.

In operation1630, the processor may determine whether a signal pattern detected by the display930is identical to a signal pattern of the detection sensor940. For example, the signal pattern of the detection sensor940may be stored in a memory. The processor may compare the signal pattern, which is stored in the memory, of the detection sensor940with a pattern of the electrical signal applied to the display930and may determine whether the two signal patterns are identical to each other.

In operation1630, in case the pattern of the electrical signal applied to the display930does not match the stored signal pattern of the detection sensor940, the processor may determine that the signal applied to the display930is information by misrecognition, and may recognize a signal applied to the display930again.

In operation1640, in case the processor determines that the signal pattern of the detection sensor940is recognized, the processor may detect the display area of the display930through the recognized signal of the detection sensor940. For example, the processor may calculate a size of the display area of the display930exposed (e.g., visible) to the outside of the electronic device through signal detection coordinates of the detection sensor940for the display930.

In operation1650, the processor may adjust a size of a visual image displayed on the display930. For example, the processor may adjust a size of a visual image displayed on the display930to correspond to a size of the display area.

FIG.17is a flowchart illustrating an example operation of determining whether an electronic device is submerged, according to various embodiments.

FIG.17illustrates an example of an operation of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device901ofFIG.9) that performs determining whether the electronic device is submerged through signal detection of a detection sensor (e.g., the detection sensor940ofFIG.9).

In the following example embodiments, operations may be performed sequentially, but not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations illustrated inFIG.17may change, and at least two of the operations may be performed in parallel. In addition, each operation illustrated inFIG.17is not necessarily performed, and an example may be performed where at least one operation is excluded.

In an example embodiment, operations illustrated inFIG.17may be performed by at least one component (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) of the electronic device901.

In operation1710, a processor may detect an insertion and/or withdrawal operation of a display (e.g., the flexible display930ofFIG.9). For example, the processor may detect a moving operation performed by the display930that moves between the inside and the outside of the housing structure900through the outlet902in response to an expansion or contraction operation of the electronic device901.

In operation1720, the processor may detect the detection sensor940. In an example embodiment, the detection sensor940may have self-capacitance, and the capacitance of the detection sensor940may change depending on a degree of moisture inflow. In an example embodiment, the processor may detect a signal pattern of the detection sensor940, recognized through the display930or a separate detection sensor.

In operation1730, the processor may determine whether a detected signal pattern is identical to the set signal pattern of the detection sensor940. For example, signal pattern information of the detection sensor940may be stored in the memory, and the processor may determine whether a detected signal corresponds to the signal pattern of the detection sensor940by comparing the detected signal pattern to the stored signal pattern of the detection sensor940.

In operation1730, in case the processor120determines that a pattern of the electrical signal applied to the display930does not match the stored signal pattern of the detection sensor940, the processor120may determine that the electrical signal applied to the display930is information due to misrecognition, and may recognize a electrical signal applied to the display930again.

In operation1740, the processor may detect a signal value, that is, a capacitance value, applied by the detection sensor940. In an example embodiment, the processor may compare the capacitance value applied by the detection sensor940with a threshold value. For example, since the capacitance value applied by the detection sensor940increases based on a degree of moisture inflow, the processor may determine a degree of water submersion by the electronic device901by comparing the signal value applied by the detection sensor940with the threshold value.

In operation1750, the processor may determine whether the electronic device901is submerged. In an example embodiment, in case the electronic device901is determined to be submerged, the electronic device901may perform a corresponding operation, which is set corresponding to submersion of the electronic device901. For example, the processor may perform a notification operation to notify submersion of the electronic device901to a user. The notification operation may be performed through, for example, vibration, sound, or a visual image. In an example embodiment, in case the processor determines that the electronic device901is submerged, the processor may shut off the power of the electronic device901or may shut off the power supplied to a main component inside the electronic device901.

According to various example embodiments, the electronic device may include: the housing structure including a first housing and a second housing that movably coupled to the first housing in a moving direction; a flexible display wherein a size of the display area visible at a front surface of the housing structure is configured to vary based on a relative movement by the second housing with respect to the first housing; a detection sensor including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode and configured to detect a change in the size of the display area; and the processor, wherein the housing structure may include an outlet, through which the flexible display is withdrawn from an internal space to the front surface or the flexible display is inserted into the internal space from the front surface, and the detection sensor may be disposed on the housing structure adjacent to the outlet such that the first electrode is facing the surface of the flexible display passing through the outlet, and the detection sensor may include a first portion having the length direction perpendicular to the moving direction, and one or more second portions protruding from the length direction to another direction.

In an example embodiment, the flexible display may be configured to detect capacitance generated by the detection sensor through a region passing through the outlet while the size of the display area is changing, and the processor may be configured to detect a change in the size of the display area through the region of the flexible display in which the capacitance generated by the detection sensor is detected.

In an example embodiment, the processor may be configured to adjust a size of the visual image displayed on the flexible display corresponding to the detected size of the display area.

In an example embodiment, the outlet may be formed to have a formation direction perpendicular to the moving direction, and the detection sensor may be disposed on the inner surface of the housing structure such that the length direction L is parallel with the formation direction of the outlet.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor may be disposed such that the first portion is facing the front surface of the housing structure.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device may further include a grounded portion disposed in the internal space of the housing structure; a current carrying portion disposed on the inner surface of the housing structure and forming a grounding path by electrically connecting the detection sensor to the grounded portion.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor may be attached to the outer surface of the first electrode, and may further include the sweeper contacting the surface of the flexible display passing through the outlet.

In an example embodiment, the capacitance of the detection sensor may be configured to change based on a degree of moisture inflow into the dielectric.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device may be electrically connected to the detection sensor, and may further include a detection sensor configured to detect a change in capacitance generated by the detection sensor.

In an example embodiment, the processor may be configured to compare the capacitance of the detection sensor with the a specified reference value, and based on the capacitance exceeding the reference value, may determine that the electronic device is submerged.

In an example embodiment, the processor may be configured to shut off power of the electronic device based on the electronic device being determined to be submerged.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor may include a first detection sensor disposed to face the outlet; and a second detection sensor connected to the first detection sensor and disposed to relatively face the internal space compared to the first detection sensor. In an example embodiment, the processor may be configured to determine the degree of moisture inflow into the internal space through capacitances generated by the first detection sensor and the second detection sensor1260respectively.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor may include an exposed region in which at least the portion of the second electrode is absent to expose the surface of the dielectric, and the exposed region may be formed on the second detection sensor.

In an example embodiment, the housing structure may further include a slot recess formed in the inner surface adjacent to the outlet, and the detection sensor may be seated on the slot.

According to various example embodiments, the electronic device may include: a first housing; a second housing at least partially overlapping the first housing, and movably coupled to the first housing in a moving direction; a flexible display at least a portion of which is mounted to a surface of the second housing and at least a portion is accommodated in an internal space formed by the first housing, and a size of the display area visible through the surfaces of the first housing and the second housing is configured to vary based on relative movement by the second housing with respect to the first housing; a detection sensor including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the capacitance is configured to change based on a degree of moisture inflow; and a processor, and wherein the first housing may include am outlet through which the flexible display is configured to be withdrawn from the internal space to the surface of the first housing and the second housing, or the flexible display is configured to be inserted into the internal space from the surface, the detection sensor is disposed on the inner surface of the first housing adjacent to the outlet, and the processor may be configured to determine the degree of moisture inflow into the internal space based on a change in the capacitance generated by the detection sensor.

In an example embodiment, the processor may be configured to compare the capacitance value generated by the detection sensor with a specified reference value, and based on the capacitance value exceeding the reference value, may determine that the electronic device is submerged.

In an example embodiment, the processor may be configured to shut off the power of the electronic device based on the electronic device being determined to be submerged.

In an example embodiment, the detection sensor may include the first detection sensor having a length direction parallel with the outlet; and a second detection sensor connected to the first detection sensor, disposed to face the internal space of the first housing based on the first detection sensor, and including the second portion protruding toward a direction perpendicular to the length direction.

According to various example embodiments, a method of controlling a display screen of a slideable electronic device may include: detecting an insertion or withdrawal operation of the display through an outlet; detecting a detection sensor through the display; determining whether a detected pattern of the detection sensor matches a preset pattern of the detection sensor determining a detection sensor detecting region of the display based pm the detected pattern of the detection sensor matching a specified pattern of the detection sensor; calculating a size of the display area of the display visible to the outside through the determined detecting region of the detection sensor of the display; and displaying visual information on the display corresponding to the calculated size of the display area.