Patent Description:
As the functional gap between manufacturers is significantly reduced, electronic devices are becoming slimmer to meet consumer's purchasing needs. Also, electronic devices are being upgraded by increasing rigidity, enhancing design aspects, and differentiating their functional elements.

In order to make an electronic device slim, a plurality of electronic components must be efficiently arranged in the internal space of the electronic device. Efficient arrangement of electronic components in the internal space of the electronic device also means that their functions are fully exhibited. Otherwise, the quality of the electronic device may be degraded. In particular, the electronic components disposed around the large screen display may require an efficient arrangement structure inside the electronic device.

<CIT> relates to an electronic device having a side acoustic emission speaker.

<CIT> discloses a communication terminal comprising a housing carrying therein a radio antenna element, a speaker, and a chamber acting as an electromagnetic resonance cavity for the antenna and as an acoustic resonance cavity for the speaker.

<CIT> discloses a mobile terminal including a first body having a display unit, and a second body provided with a circuit board for driving the display unit thereinside and combined with a rear surface of the first body, wherein the rear surface of the first body is divided into a first region formed along an edge of the first body and a second region defined by the first region, and the second body is disposed at the second region to be hidden by a front surface of the first body.

<CIT> discloses an apparatus comprising: a surface; at least one contact transducer, wherein the at least one contact transducer is coupled to the surface and configured to move the surface to generate at least one acoustic signal, wherein the at least one acoustic signal is configured to be transmitted at least by the surface; at least one acoustic enhancer configured to enhance the acoustic output of the at least one contact transducer, wherein the at least one acoustic enhancer comprises at least one further transducer configured to generate at least one further acoustic signal.

<CIT> discloses an electronic device comprising: a housing comprising a first surface facing in a first direction and a second surface facing in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction, the first surface comprising an at least partially transparent part and at least one opening formed adjacent to the at least partially transparent part; a camera positioned inside the housing, the camera comprising an image sensor facing in the first direction through the at least partially transparent part of the housing; an acoustic component arranged between the first surface and the second surface, the acoustic component comprising a vibration plate configured to generate a sound such that the same moves in at least one direction selected from the first and second directions, a first passage formed in a third direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction such that the generated sound passes through the same, and a second passage formed along a fourth direction that is different from the third direction so as to connect the first passage and the at least one opening; a wireless communication circuit positioned inside the housing and electrically connected to the acoustic component so as to provide the acoustic component with a signal regarding the sound; a display exposed through the first surface and positioned adjacent to the camera; and a processor positioned inside the housing and electrically connected to the camera, the acoustic component, the wireless communication circuit, and the display.

Electronic devices are being improved by expanding the display area compared to other electronic devices of the same size. For example, the display is designed to substantially occupy most of the front of the electronic device, and peripheral electronic components such as a camera module or acoustic module (e.g., speaker module or microphone module) are designed to have a corresponding arrangement structure. Specifically, the camera module may be disposed under the display in the internal space of the electronic device and may perform its function through the camera exposure region disposed in the active area of the display. In addition, the speaker module may be arranged to emit sound through an opening between the cover member (e.g., front cover or glass window) on which the display is disposed and the housing (e.g., side member) from the sound transmission path disposed in the internal space of the electronic device. This opening may be finished with a decorative or protective member for preventing and/or reducing introduction of foreign substances and to improve an aesthetic appearance.

However, when the decorative member is applied, it is necessary to implement the height up to the outer surface of the cover member, which may obstruct the reduction of the upper black matrix (BM). Further, in a situation where the size of the opening through which sound is emitted is to be reduced for the expansion of the display area, the decorative member may obstruct the reduction of the opening. Here, the sound quality may be degraded by the gradually decreasing opening. In addition, when a sharp tool is used through the opening to remove a foreign substance, the periphery of the display disposed on the back of the cover member may be damaged, which may cause malfunction of the electronic device.

The invention is set out in the appended set of claims, wherein the figures and respective description relate to advantageous embodiments thereof.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, it is possible to provide improved sound quality even if the opening size for sound emission is reduced owing to expansion of the display area, and it is possible to secure the reliability of the electronic device by protecting the display from a sharp tool introduced through the opening.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the disclosure are described in greater detail with reference to accompanying drawings.

<FIG> is a front perspective view illustrating an example electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure, and <FIG> is a rear perspective view of the example electronic device shown in <FIG> according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a mobile electronic device <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> that includes a first surface (or front surface) 110A, a second surface (or rear surface) 110B, and a lateral surface 110C that surrounds a space between the first surface 110A and the second surface 110B. The housing <NUM> may refer to a structure that forms a part of the first surface 110A, the second surface 110B, and the lateral surface 110C. The first surface 110A may be formed of a front plate <NUM> (e.g., a glass plate or polymer plate coated with a variety of coating layers) at least a part of which is substantially transparent. The second surface 110B may be formed of a rear plate <NUM> which is substantially opaque. The rear plate <NUM> may be formed of, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or any combination thereof. The lateral surface 110C may be formed of a lateral bezel structure (or "lateral member") <NUM> which is combined with the front plate <NUM> and the rear plate <NUM> and includes a metal and/or polymer. The rear plate <NUM> and the lateral bezel structure <NUM> may be integrally formed and may be of the same material (e.g., a metallic material such as aluminum).

The front plate <NUM> may include two first regions 110D disposed at long edges thereof, respectively, and bent and extended seamlessly from the first surface 110A toward the rear plate <NUM>. Similarly, the rear plate <NUM> may include two second regions 110E disposed at long edges thereof, respectively, and bent and extended seamlessly from the second surface 110B toward the front plate <NUM>. The front plate <NUM> (or the rear plate <NUM>) may include only one of the first regions 110D (or of the second regions 110E). The first regions 110D or the second regions 110E may be omitted in part. When viewed from a lateral side of the mobile electronic device <NUM>, the lateral bezel structure <NUM> may have a first thickness (or width) on a lateral side where the first region 110D or the second region 110E is not included, and may have a second thickness, being less than the first thickness, on another lateral side where the first region 110D or the second region 110E is included.

The mobile electronic device <NUM> may include at least one of a display <NUM>, audio modules <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, sensor modules <NUM> and <NUM>, camera modules <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, a key input device <NUM>, a light emitting device, and connector holes <NUM> and <NUM>. The mobile electronic device <NUM> may omit at least one (e.g., the key input device <NUM> or the light emitting device) of the above components, or may further include other components.

The display <NUM> may be exposed through a substantial portion of the front plate <NUM>, for example. At least a part of the display <NUM> may be exposed through the front plate <NUM> that forms the first surface 110A and the first region 110D of the lateral surface 110C. Outlines (i.e., edges and corners) of the display <NUM> may have substantially the same form as those of the front plate <NUM>. The spacing between the outline of the display <NUM> and the outline of the front plate <NUM> may be substantially unchanged in order to enlarge the exposed area of the display <NUM>.

A recess or opening may be formed in a portion of a display area of the display <NUM> to accommodate at least one of the audio module <NUM>, the sensor module <NUM>, the camera module <NUM>, and the light emitting device. At least one of the audio module <NUM>, the sensor module <NUM>, the camera module <NUM>, a fingerprint sensor (not shown), and the light emitting element may be disposed on the back of the display area of the display <NUM>. The display <NUM> may be combined with, or adjacent to, a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the touch strength (pressure), and/or a digitizer for detecting a stylus pen. At least a part of the sensor modules <NUM> and <NUM> and/or at least a part of the key input device <NUM> may be disposed in the first region 110D and/or the second region 110E.

The audio modules <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> may correspond to a microphone hole <NUM> and speaker holes <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively. The microphone hole <NUM> may contain a microphone disposed therein for acquiring external sounds and, in a case, contain a plurality of microphones to sense a sound direction. The speaker holes <NUM> and <NUM> may be classified into an external speaker hole <NUM> and a call receiver hole <NUM>. The microphone hole <NUM> and the speaker holes <NUM> and <NUM> may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) may be provided without the speaker holes <NUM> and <NUM>.

The sensor modules <NUM> and <NUM> may generate electrical signals or data corresponding to an internal operating state of the mobile electronic device <NUM> or to an external environmental condition. The sensor modules <NUM> and <NUM> may include a first sensor module <NUM> (e.g., a proximity sensor) and/or a second sensor module (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the first surface 110A of the housing <NUM>, and/or a third sensor module <NUM> (e.g., a heart rate monitor (HRM) sensor) and/or a fourth sensor module (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the second surface 110B of the housing <NUM>. The fingerprint sensor may be disposed on the second surface 110B as well as the first surface 110A (e.g., the display <NUM>) of the housing <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> may further include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The camera modules <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> may include a first camera device <NUM> disposed on the first surface 110A of the electronic device <NUM>, and a second camera device <NUM> and/or a flash <NUM> disposed on the second surface 110B. The camera module <NUM> or the camera module <NUM> may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. The flash <NUM> may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. Two or more lenses (infrared cameras, wide angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one side of the electronic device <NUM>.

The key input device <NUM> may be disposed on the lateral surface 110C of the housing <NUM>. The mobile electronic device <NUM> may not include some or all of the key input device <NUM> described above, and the key input device <NUM> which is not included may be implemented in another form such as a soft key on the display <NUM>. The key input device <NUM> may include the sensor module disposed on the second surface 110B of the housing <NUM>.

The light emitting device may be disposed on the first surface 110A of the housing <NUM>. For example, the light emitting device may provide status information of the electronic device <NUM> in an optical form. The light emitting device may provide a light source associated with the operation of the camera module <NUM>. The light emitting device may include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED), an IR LED, or a xenon lamp.

The connector holes <NUM> and <NUM> may include a first connector hole <NUM> adapted for a connector (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) connector) for transmitting and receiving power and/or data to and from an external electronic device, and/or a second connector hole <NUM> adapted for a connector (e.g., an earphone jack) for transmitting and receiving an audio signal to and from an external electronic device.

The pen input device <NUM> (e.g., stylus pen or electronic pen) may be guided and inserted into or detached from the housing <NUM> through a hole <NUM> formed at a side surface of the housing <NUM>, and may include a button to facilitate the detachment. The pen input device <NUM> may include a separate resonant circuit to interoperate with an electromagnetic induction panel <NUM> (e.g., digitizer) included in the electronic device <NUM>. The pen input device <NUM> may utilize an electro-magnetic resonance (EMR) scheme, an active electrical stylus (AES), or an electric coupled resonance (ECR) scheme.

Some sensor modules <NUM> of camera modules <NUM> and <NUM>, some sensor modules <NUM> of sensor modules <NUM> and <NUM>, or an indicator may be arranged to be exposed through a display <NUM>. For example, the camera module <NUM>, the sensor module <NUM>, or the indicator may be arranged in the internal space of an electronic device <NUM> so as to be brought into contact with an external environment through an opening of the display <NUM>, which is perforated up to a front plate <NUM>. In another embodiment, some sensor modules <NUM> may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the front plate <NUM> in the internal space of the electronic device. For example, in this case, an area of the display <NUM> facing the sensor module may not require a perforated opening.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating the example mobile electronic device shown in <FIG> according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, a mobile electronic device <NUM> may include a lateral bezel structure <NUM>, a first support member <NUM> (e.g., a bracket), a front plate <NUM>, a display <NUM>, an electromagnetic induction panel (<NUM>), a printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM>, a battery <NUM>, a second support member <NUM> (e.g., a rear case), an antenna <NUM>, and a rear plate <NUM>. The mobile electronic device <NUM> may omit at least one (e.g., the first support member <NUM> or the second support member <NUM>) of the above components or may further include another component. Some components of the electronic device <NUM> may be the same as or similar to those of the mobile electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> or <FIG>, thus, descriptions thereof are omitted below.

The electromagnetic induction panel <NUM> (e.g., digitizer) may be a panel for sensing an input of the pen input device <NUM>. For example, the electromagnetic induction panel <NUM> may include a printed circuit board (PCB) (e.g., flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) and a shielding sheet. The shielding sheet may prevent interference between components (e.g., display module, printed circuit board, and electromagnetic induction panel) included in the electronic device <NUM> caused by electromagnetic fields generated by the components. The shielding sheet may block electromagnetic fields generated from the components so that the input from the pen input device <NUM> is accurately transmitted to the coil included in the electromagnetic induction panel <NUM>. In various embodiments, the electromagnetic induction panel <NUM> may include an opening formed in at least a region corresponding to the biometric sensor mounted in the electronic device <NUM>.

The first support member <NUM> is disposed inside the mobile electronic device <NUM> and may be connected to, or integrated with, the lateral bezel structure <NUM>. The first support member <NUM> may be formed of, for example, a metallic material and/or a non-metal (e.g., polymer) material. The first support member <NUM> may be combined with the display <NUM> at one side thereof and also combined with the printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM> at the other side thereof. On the PCB <NUM>, a processor, a memory, and/or an interface may be mounted. The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communications processor (CP).

The memory may include, for example, one or more of a volatile memory and a nonvolatile memory.

The interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a USB interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, and/or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the mobile electronic device <NUM> with an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/multimedia card (MMC) connector, or an audio connector.

The battery <NUM> is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the mobile electronic device <NUM>, and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. At least a part of the battery <NUM> may be disposed on substantially the same plane as the PCB <NUM>. The battery <NUM> may be integrally disposed within the mobile electronic device <NUM>, and may be detachably disposed from the mobile electronic device <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the camera module (e.g., camera module <NUM> in <FIG>) may be disposed between the first support member <NUM> and the rear plate <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the camera module <NUM> may be disposed to protrude or be exposed toward the front plate <NUM> through a through hole (not shown) formed in the first support member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the camera module <NUM> may be arranged to face the camera exposure zone <NUM> of the front plate <NUM> through a through hole <NUM> formed at the corresponding position of the display panel <NUM> and a through hole <NUM> formed at the corresponding position of the electromagnetic induction panel <NUM>. In another embodiment, the display panel <NUM> may face the camera module <NUM> through a zone having a high transmittance formed by a change in the pixel structure and/or a wiring structure without having a through hole at the corresponding position.

<FIG> is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating the example electronic device <NUM> taken along the line A-A ' of <FIG> according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

The electronic device <NUM> of <FIG> may include at least some embodiments similar to or different from those of the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG> or the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>.

With reference to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may include a front cover <NUM> (e.g., front plate <NUM> in <FIG>) facing a first direction (① direction), a rear cover <NUM> (e.g., rear plate <NUM> in <FIG>) facing away from the front cover <NUM>, and a housing structure <NUM> (e.g., housing <NUM> in <FIG>) including a side member <NUM> (e.g., side bezel structure <NUM> in <FIG>) surrounding a space <NUM> between the front cover <NUM> and the rear cover <NUM>. In another embodiment, a support member <NUM> may be disposed through structural coupling with the side member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a display <NUM> (e.g., display <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed on the rear surface of the front cover <NUM> configured to be at least partially visible from the outside through the front cover <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> may include a speaker module (e.g., including a speaker) <NUM> disposed in the internal space. In an example embodiment, the speaker module <NUM> may be disposed in a space between the support member <NUM> and the rear cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the speaker module <NUM> may include a speaker housing <NUM>, at least one magnet <NUM> disposed in the internal space <NUM> of the speaker housing <NUM>, a coil member <NUM> (e.g., voice coil) disposed at a position affected by the magnetic force of the at least one magnet <NUM>, and a diaphragm <NUM> at least partially fixed to the speaker housing <NUM> so as to vibrate in accordance with the movement of the coil member <NUM>. In another embodiment, the speaker module <NUM> may be disposed in a space between the support member <NUM> and the front cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the acoustic signal emitted by the speaker module <NUM> may pass through the first through-hole <NUM> formed at the support member <NUM>, pass through the path for sound transmission provided in the internal space <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>, and be discharged to the outside of the electronic device <NUM>.

In an example embodiment of the disclosure, the path for sound transmission may have an acoustic branch structure in which one sound transmission path is divided into a first path P1 for mainly transmitting a sound signal of a first frequency band with relatively high frequencies and a second path P2 for mainly transmitting a sound signal of a second frequency band lower than the first frequency band. In an example embodiment, the sound signal of the first frequency band may be emitted through a substantially linear acoustic path (e.g., acoustic duct) and a relatively large first opening <NUM> formed in the side member <NUM> due to high frequency characteristics. In an example embodiment, the sound signal of the second frequency band may be emitted through a curved acoustic path (e.g., acoustic duct) and a relatively small second opening <NUM> between the side member <NUM> and the front cover <NUM> due to low frequency characteristics. In an example embodiment, the sound signal of the first frequency band may include frequencies in the range of, for example, about <NUM> to <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the sound signal of the first frequency band may include frequencies in the range of, for example, about <NUM> to <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the sound signal of the second frequency band may include frequencies in the range of, for example, <NUM> or less.

In various example embodiments of the disclosure, through the acoustic branch structure according to the frequency band, the electronic device may prevent and/or reduce degradation of the high-pitched sound performance due to a single sound emission opening (e.g., second opening <NUM>) that dwindles gradually, and may prevent and/or reduce sound quality degradation by guiding high-pitched sounds through another opening (e.g., first opening <NUM>) for high-pitched sound emission.

In various embodiments, the path for sound transmission may include a first space SP1 (e.g., first acoustic channel or first acoustic path) formed in the internal space <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> and connected to the first through hole <NUM>, a second space SP2 (e.g., second acoustic channel or second acoustic path) extending from the first space SP1 and connected to the first opening <NUM> formed in the side member <NUM>, and a third space SP3 (e.g., third acoustic channel or third acoustic path) extending from the first space SP1 and connected to the second opening <NUM> formed between the side member <NUM> and the front cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the first space SP1, the second space SP2, and the third space SP3 may be connected to each other. In an example embodiment, the first space SP1, the second space SP2, and the third space SP3 may be formed by changing the structural configuration of the side member <NUM> and/or the support member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, although the first space SP1, the second space SP2, and the third space SP3 are shown as being divided by region in the internal space <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> for ease of description, these spaces may include one connected acoustic path or acoustic channel. In another embodiment, the first space SP1, the second space SP2, and the third space SP3 may be formed through the coupling and/or arrangement structure of the side member <NUM>, the support member <NUM> and/or the speaker module <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the first space SP1 may be formed through the first cover <NUM> coupled to the support member <NUM> in the internal space <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the third space SP3 may be formed through the second cover <NUM> coupled to the side member <NUM> and/or the support member <NUM> in the internal space <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include a plurality of sound emission holes <NUM> through which a sound signal passes. In an example embodiment, the support cover <NUM> may be additionally disposed between the first cover <NUM> and the display <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the sound signal of the relatively high first frequency band generated by the speaker module <NUM> may be emitted to the outside of the electronic device <NUM> through the first path P1, which includes the first through hole <NUM> formed in the support member <NUM>, the first space SP1 connected to the first through hole <NUM>, the second space SP2 connected to the first space SP1, and the first opening <NUM> connected to the second space SP2. In an example embodiment, the sound signal passing through the first path P1 may be emitted in the direction that the side member <NUM> faces (② direction). In an example embodiment, the sound signal of the relatively low second frequency band generated by the speaker module <NUM> may be emitted to the outside of the electronic device <NUM> through the second path P2, which includes the first through hole <NUM> formed in the support member <NUM>, the first space SP1 connected to the first through hole <NUM>, the third space SP3 connected to the first space SP1, and a second opening <NUM> connected to the third space SP3 and at least partially formed using the space between the front cover <NUM> and the side member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the sound signal passing through the second path P2 may be generally emitted in a direction that the front cover <NUM> faces (① direction). In another embodiment, the second opening <NUM> may be formed to face a direction slightly different from the direction that the front cover <NUM> faces by changing the structural configuration of the side member <NUM> and/or the front cover <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> may include a separation member <NUM> to spatially separate the first space SP1 and the second space SP2. In an example embodiment, the separation member <NUM> may be disposed between the first space SP1 and the second space SP2 in a manner of being attached to the side member <NUM> and/or the support member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the separation member <NUM> may prevent and/or reduce moisture or foreign substances introduced through the first opening <NUM> from entering into the inside of the electronic device <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the separation member <NUM> may include, for example, and without limitation, at least one of a mesh, a nonwoven fabric, a membrane, or the like. In an example embodiment, the separation member <NUM> may be attached to the side member <NUM> and/or the support member <NUM> using, for example, and without limitation, at least one of double sided tape, rubber, urethane, silicone, or the like. In an example embodiment, the separation member <NUM> may block external moisture and may emit the sound signal passing through the first path P1 to the outside through the first opening <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the first opening <NUM> may be formed as at least one through hole penetrating the side member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the first opening <NUM> may be formed as a single hole of a slot-hole shape having a length including all through holes. In an example embodiment, the first opening <NUM> may be formed in parallel with the front cover <NUM> from the outer surface to the inner surface of the side member <NUM>. In another embodiment, the first opening <NUM> may be formed to be inclined with a preset angle with the front cover <NUM>. For example, the first opening <NUM> may be inclined downward or inclined upward from the horizontal direction. This may be advantageous for attaching the separation member <NUM> and changing the sound emission direction.

<FIG> and <FIG> are perspective views of a partial cross-section of the example electronic device <NUM> before and after the cover members <NUM> and <NUM> are arranged to form a path for sound transmission according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may emit the sound signal generated by the speaker module <NUM> disposed in the internal space <NUM> to the outside through two paths (e.g., first path P1 and second path P2 in <FIG>). In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may emit a sound signal of the first frequency band for relatively high-pitched sounds to the first opening <NUM> through the first space SP1 and the second space SP2 connected to the first space SP1. In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may emit a sound signal of the second frequency band for relatively low-pitched sounds to the second opening <NUM> through the first space SP1 and the third space SP3 connected to the first space SP1.

In various embodiments, the first space SP1 may be formed through the support member <NUM> and the first cover <NUM> disposed above the support member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second space SP2 may be formed by changing the configuration of the side member <NUM> and the support member <NUM>, and may be connected to the first space SP1. In an example embodiment, the third space SP3 may be formed through the side member <NUM> and/or the second cover <NUM> disposed above the support member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include a plurality of sound emission holes <NUM> formed to transmit sounds to the second opening <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may further include a support cover <NUM> disposed between the display <NUM> and the first cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the support cover <NUM> may support the rear surface of the display <NUM> from the first cover <NUM> and, when the second cover <NUM> is stacked on at least a portion of the first cover <NUM>, it may perform a step compensation function to compensate for the thickness of the second cover <NUM> and may also function as an adhesive member attached to the back of the display. In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM>, the second cover <NUM>, and/or the support cover <NUM> may include, for example, and without limitation, at least one of a metal material or a polymer material, and may be attached to at least a portion of the side member <NUM> and/or at least a portion of the support member <NUM> through an attachment process such as bonding, taping or fusion.

In various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> may include at least one electronic component capable of performing its function with or without being exposed through the front cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the at least one electronic component may include a camera module <NUM> and a sensor module <NUM> (e.g., time-of-flight (TOF) module) disposed substantially at the top center when the front cover <NUM> is viewed from above. In an example embodiment, the sensor module <NUM> may include, for example, and without limitation, at least one of a TOF sensor, an illuminance sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an iris recognition sensor, or the like. In an example embodiment, the camera module <NUM> may be disposed between the support member <NUM> and the rear cover <NUM> in the internal space <NUM> so as to face in the direction of the front cover through the second through hole <NUM> formed in the support member <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the camera module <NUM> may be disposed to face the camera exposure zone (e.g., camera exposure zone <NUM> in <FIG>) of the front cover <NUM> through a through hole (e.g., through hole <NUM> in <FIG>) formed in the display <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the sensor module <NUM> may also be disposed to face the display <NUM> through the third through hole <NUM> formed in the support member <NUM> while being supported by the support member <NUM> in the space between the support member <NUM> and the rear cover <NUM>. In another embodiment, the camera module <NUM> may be disposed to be close to the rear surface of the display <NUM> (e.g., display panel <NUM> in <FIG>) where no through hole is formed. In this case, the corresponding portion of the display facing the camera module <NUM> may be formed to have a high transmittance through a change in the pixel structure and/or the wiring structure.

According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, the speaker module <NUM> may be disposed around at least one electronic component (e.g., camera module). In this case, at least some of the first space SP1, the second space SP3, and/or the third space SP3 may be arranged to be adjacent to the least one electronic component. In another embodiment, at least some of the first space SP1, the second space SP3, and/or the third space SP3 may be formed by bypassing the at least one electronic component. In another embodiment, at least some of the first space SP1, the second space SP3, and/or the third space SP3 may be arranged to be aligned with or in parallel with the at least one electronic component.

<FIG> is a partial view of the example electronic device illustrating a sound transmission path P1 using the first space SP1 and the second space SP2 according to various embodiments of the disclosure. <FIG> is a partial view of the example electronic device illustrating a sound transmission path P2 using the first space SP1 and the third space SP3 according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

With reference to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may include a camera module <NUM> disposed through the support member <NUM> in the upper center, and a sensor module <NUM> disposed around the camera module <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a speaker module <NUM> disposed around the camera module <NUM> and/or the sensor module <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may emit a sound signal of a relatively high first frequency band generated by the speaker module <NUM> to the outside thereof through the first path P1, which includes the first through hole <NUM> formed in the support member <NUM>, the first space SP1 connected to the first through hole <NUM>, the second space SP2 connected to the first space SP1, and the first opening <NUM> connected to the second space SP2.

With reference to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may emit a sound signal of the relatively low second frequency band generated by the speaker module <NUM> to the outside thereof through the second path P2, which includes the first through hole <NUM> formed in the support member <NUM>, the first space SP1 connected to the first through hole <NUM>, the third space SP3 connected to the first space SP1, and a second opening <NUM> connected to the third space SP3 and at least partially formed using the space between the front cover <NUM> and the side member <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the first path P1 and the second path P2 may be arranged by bypassing the camera module <NUM> and/or the sensor module <NUM> disposed therearound. This is because the second opening <NUM>, which is used to emit a sound passing through the second path P2, is disposed at the upper center of the electronic device <NUM> and may be used as a receiver for receiving a voice of the other party during a call.

According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic device <NUM> includes an acoustic branch structure in which high-pitched sounds and low-pitched sounds are separately emitted. The gap g for sound emission between the side member <NUM> and the recess 420a formed at the periphery of the front cover <NUM>, corresponding to the second opening <NUM> used as a receiver, is set to a small (e.g., minimum) value (e.g., about <NUM>). This may help to reduce the BM region of the display <NUM> and to expand the active region. In addition, the acoustic branch structure for separating high-pitched sounds and low-pitched sounds can help to produce high quality sound.

<FIG> is a partial cross-sectional view of the example electronic device <NUM> taken along the line B-B ' of <FIG> according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

The electronic device <NUM> of <FIG> may further include at least some embodiments similar to or different from those of the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>, or the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>.

In the description on the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>, components substantially the same as those of the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG> are denoted by the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may not be repeated here.

With reference to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may include a camera module <NUM> disposed in the internal space <NUM> of the housing structure <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the camera module <NUM> may include a camera housing <NUM> disposed to be supported by the support member <NUM>, a body tube member <NUM> (e.g., lens housing) that is disposed to project from the camera housing <NUM>, penetrate the second through hole <NUM> formed in the support member (<NUM>), and face the front cover <NUM> by being at least partially penetrated by the through hole <NUM> (e.g., through hole <NUM> in <FIG>) formed in the display <NUM>, a plurality of lenses <NUM> disposed in the body tube member <NUM>, and at least one image sensor <NUM> disposed to be aligned with the center of the lenses <NUM> in the camera housing <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> may include a protruding dummy <NUM> projecting (e.g., dummy projection) from the side member <NUM> toward the display <NUM> to prevent and/or reduce damage to the display <NUM> by, for example, a sharp tool introduced through the second opening <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the protruding dummy projection <NUM> may have substantially the same length as the second opening <NUM>. In another embodiment, the protruding dummy <NUM> may include plural dummies spaced apart at regular intervals within the length of the second opening <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the protruding dummy <NUM> may be formed to protrude to at least partially overlap one end of the front cover <NUM> when the front cover <NUM> is viewed from above. In an example embodiment, the protruding dummy <NUM> may be arranged side by side with one end of the front cover <NUM> without an overlap when the front cover <NUM> is viewed from above. For example, the protruding dummy <NUM> may protrude toward the display <NUM> such that the gap with the front cover <NUM> (e.g., gap d in <FIG>) maintains a small (e.g., minimum) value (e.g., <NUM>) permitting a sound signal to be transmitted. In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a fourth space SP4 extending from the first space (e.g., first space SP1 in <FIG>) that allows a sound signal to be emitted through the second opening <NUM>. In an example embodiment, to address the difficulty of forming the space in the vertical direction due to the formation of the protruding dummy <NUM> and to facilitate the processability, the fourth space SP4 may be inclined toward the inside of the side member <NUM> and have a preset depth in an diagonal direction. In an example embodiment, the fourth space SP4 may be replaced with the third space SP3 of <FIG> or may function as a separate space connected to the third space SP3.

In various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> may include a second cover <NUM> disposed to at least partially shield the fourth space SP4. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may be disposed below the protruding dummy <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may be disposed below the display <NUM> in the fourth space SP4, helping to reduce the BM region of the display <NUM>. In addition, the protruding dummy <NUM> at least partially overlapping the front cover <NUM> may prevent and/or reduce damage to the display <NUM> by, for example, a sharp tool introduced from the outside.

<FIG> is an enlarged view of zone C shown in <FIG> according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

With reference to <FIG>, the protruding dummy <NUM> is processed so that the first corresponding surface <NUM> thereof may face the edge portion of the front cover <NUM> while maintaining a minimum gap d for sound emission, preventing and/or reducing damage to the front cover <NUM> due to external impact. For example, the first corresponding surface <NUM> may be formed in a shape (e.g., planar cut shape or curved cut shape) corresponding to the second corresponding surface <NUM> of the front cover <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the protruding dummy <NUM> may include a light absorbing structure formed at a portion that can be viewed through the second opening <NUM> from the outside. This may help to prevent and/or reduce recognizing of the second opening <NUM> owing to a phenomenon that the light incident from the outside is reflected by the protruding dummy. In an example embodiment, the light absorbing structure may include an anti-reflective (AR) coating layer <NUM> formed on at least some of the protruding dummy <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the anti-reflective coating layer <NUM> may further include a black resin layer. In another embodiment, the light absorbing structure may include a diffuse reflection layer on the surface of the protruding dummy <NUM> to reduce the reflectance by increasing the surface roughness through, for example, molding or processing.

<FIG> and <FIG> are diagrams illustrating the shape of a recess 420a in the cover member (e.g., front cover <NUM> in <FIG>) corresponding to the opening (e.g., second opening <NUM> in <FIG>) according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device <NUM> in <FIG>) may reduce the foreign substance inflow space using at least one protrusion 420b or 420c formed in the recess 420a of the front cover <NUM> forming the second opening (e.g., second opening <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, the protrusions 420b and 420c may be formed within the total length l of the recess 420a and may be formed to not protrude more than the edge of the front cover <NUM>. For example, the recess 420a may include a plurality of second protrusions 420b formed at regular intervals and having a planar end portion. In an example embodiment, the recess 420a may include one third protrusion 420c that does not protrude more than the edge of the front cover <NUM> and has an end portion in a curved shape.

<FIG> and <FIG> are diagrams illustrating the arrangement of a second cover <NUM>' applied to the third space SP3 according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may include a second cover <NUM>' to cover at least some of the third space SP3. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM>' may include a flat part <NUM> to cover at least a portion of the third space SP3, and a bent part <NUM> that is bent in a perpendicular direction from the flat part <NUM> (e.g., toward the second opening <NUM>) and is at least partially inserted into the second opening <NUM> between the side member <NUM> and the front cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the bent part <NUM> may be utilized as a decorative member that is at least partially visible from the outside through the second opening <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM>' may include a metal material or a polymer material.

In various embodiments, the second cover <NUM>' may be disposed to cover only a portion of the third space SP3, and the remaining portion (e.g., zone D in <FIG>) may be connected to the third space SP3 through the second opening <NUM> and may be used as a sound emission space. In an example embodiment, the bent part <NUM> of the second cover <NUM>' may shield at least a portion of the second opening <NUM>, helping to prevent and/or reduce the inflow of foreign substances and to secure a certain level of acoustic performance.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example usage state of the electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

With reference to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> may include a first speaker module S_R (e.g., speaker module <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed at a first position of the housing structure <NUM>, and a second speaker module S_L (e.g., speaker module <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed in a direction opposite to the first position. In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may perform a control operation to output sounds through the first opening <NUM> formed at the upper portion of the housing structure <NUM> and the speaker hole <NUM> formed at the lower portion of the housing structure <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may be configured to emit stereo sounds through the pair of speaker modules S_R and S_L. For example, the electronic device <NUM> may configure settings to emit stereo sounds through the pair of speaker modules S_R and S_L based on the content being currently played (e.g., game or video). In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may configure settings to emit stereo sounds through the pair of speaker modules S_R and S_L based on the current posture thereof and/or the content output to the display <NUM>. For example, the electronic device <NUM> may detect that the posture is changed to landscape mode through the sensor module (e.g., gyro sensor) and may configure settings to emit stereo sounds through the pair of speaker modules S_R and S_L. As another example, the electronic device <NUM> may detect that the posture is changed to portrait mode through the sensor module and may configure settings to emit stereo sounds through the pair of speaker modules S_R and S_L.

According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, the path for guiding the sound signal may be applied not only to the speaker module but also to the microphone module. In another embodiment, the path structure may be at least partially applied to a sensor module detecting an environmental condition outside the electronic device, such as, for example, and without limitation, a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, odor sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, or the like.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device <NUM> in <FIG>) may include: a housing (e.g., housing <NUM> in <FIG>) including a cover (e.g., front cover <NUM> in <FIG>) and at least one first opening (e.g., first opening <NUM> in <FIG>); a first acoustic module comprising a speaker (e.g., speaker module <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed in the internal space (e.g., internal space <NUM> in <FIG>) of the housing; and at least one path configured to guide sound signals generated by the first acoustic module to the outside, including a first space (e.g., first space SP1 in <FIG>) defined by the first acoustic module and at least a portion of the housing, a second space (e.g., second space SP2 in <FIG>) connecting the first space to the first opening and configured to guide a sound signal of a first frequency band to the first opening, and a third space (e.g., third space SP3 in <FIG>) connecting the first space to a second opening (e.g., second opening <NUM> in <FIG>) at least partially provided between the housing and the cover and configured to guide a sound signal of a second frequency band lower than the first frequency band to the second opening.

In various example embodiments, the first opening may disposed in a direction that the side of the housing faces, and the second opening may be disposed in a direction that the cover member faces.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include a display (e.g., display <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed at the back of the cover member to be at least partially visible from the outside through the cover.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may include at least one electronic component (e.g., camera module <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed at the back of the display to be adjacent to the acoustic module.

In various example embodiments, the second space and the third space may be disposed to be adjacent to the at least one electronic component.

In various example embodiments, the at least one electronic component may include a camera module including a camera and/or at least one sensor module including a sensor (e.g., sensor module <NUM> in <FIG>).

In various example embodiments, the housing may include a side portion (e.g., side member <NUM> in <FIG>) defining the external appearance of the electronic device, and a support (e.g., support member <NUM> in <FIG>) extending from the side portion to the internal space, and the first space may be defined by a plate-shaped first cover (e.g., first cover <NUM> in <FIG>) coupled to at least some of the support member.

In various example embodiments, the first opening may penetrate the side portion from the outer surface thereof to the internal space, and the second space may be connected to the first opening through the structural configuration of the side portion and the support.

In various example embodiments, the third space is disposed to cover from the first cover to the side portion and is provided using a second cover (e.g., second cover <NUM> in <FIG>) coupled to the support, and the third space may be connected to the second opening defined by a gap between the side portion and the cover spaced apart from the side portion.

In various example embodiments, the second cover may include at least one sound emission hole (e.g., sound emission hole <NUM> in <FIG>) configured to transmit sounds from the third space to the second opening.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include a display disposed at the back of the cover member to be at least partially visible from the outside through the cover, and the side portion may further include a protruding dummy projection (e.g., protruding dummy <NUM> in <FIG>) projecting toward the display.

In various example embodiments, the protruding dummy projection may protrude to at least partially overlap the cover member while maintaining a preset gap (e.g., gap d in <FIG>) with the cover member when the cover member is viewed from above.

In various example embodiments, the third space may be provided at a preset depth below the protruding dummy to be diagonally inclined through the side portion.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include a second acoustic module (e.g., speaker module <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed at a position opposite to the first acoustic module in the internal space of the housing, and sound signals of the first acoustic module and the second acoustic module may be emitted in opposite directions.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device <NUM> in <FIG>) may include: a housing (e.g., housing <NUM> in <FIG>) including a cover (e.g., front cover <NUM> in <FIG>); a display (e.g., display <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed in the internal space (e.g., internal space <NUM> in <FIG>) of the housing and at least partially visible from the outside through the cover; an acoustic module including a speaker (e.g., speaker module <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed in the internal space; at least one path, configured to guide sound signals generated by the acoustic module to the outside, including a first space (e.g., first space SP1 in <FIG>) defined by the acoustic module and at least a portion of the housing, and a second space (e.g., fourth space SP4 in <FIG>) connecting the first space to an opening (e.g., second opening <NUM> in <FIG>) at least partially provided between the housing and the cover; and a protruding dummy projection (e.g., protruding dummy <NUM> in <FIG>) projecting from the housing toward the display in the second space, wherein the protruding dummy projection may be arranged to at least partially overlap the cover when the cover is viewed from above.

In various example embodiments, the second space may be provided at a preset depth under the protruding dummy projection to be diagonally inclined through the housing.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include a cover (e.g., second cover <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed in the second space configured to at least partially seal the second space from the opening, and the cover may be at least partially disposed under the display.

In various example embodiments, the corresponding edge portion (e.g., second corresponding surface <NUM> in <FIG>) of the protruding dummy projection facing the edge portion (e.g., second corresponding surface <NUM> in <FIG>) of the cover may have a flat or curved surface.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include an antireflective coating layer (e.g., antireflective coating layer <NUM> in <FIG>) disposed in a region of the protruding dummy projection visible through the opening.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device may include at least one electronic component disposed around the acoustic module, and the first space and/or the second space may be arranged to be adjacent to the at least one electronic component.

While various example embodiments of the disclosure have been illustrated and described with reference to the drawings, it will be understood that the various embodiments are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that many variations and modifications of the disclosure fall within the scope of the disclosure, including the appended claims.

Aspects of the description are listed in the following.

A first aspect pertains to an electronic device comprising: a housing including a cover and at least one first opening; a first acoustic module disposed in an internal space of the housing; and at least one path configured to guide sound signals generated by the first acoustic module to the outside, the at least one path including: a first space defined by the first acoustic module and at least a portion of the housing; a second space connecting the first space to the first opening and configured to guide a sound signal having a first frequency band toward the first opening; and a third space connecting the first space to a second opening at least partially provided between the housing and the cover and configured to guide a sound signal having a second frequency band lower than the first frequency band toward the second opening.

A second aspect pertains to the electronic device of the first aspect, wherein the first opening is disposed in a direction facing a side of the housing; and the second opening is disposed in a direction that the cover faces.

A third aspect pertains to the electronic device of the first aspect, further comprising a display disposed at the back of the cover and at least partially visible from the outside through the cover.

A fourth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the third aspect, comprising at least one electronic component disposed adj acent to the first acoustic module at a back of the display.

A fifth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the fourth aspect, wherein the second space and the third space are arranged adjacent to the at least one electronic component.

A sixth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the fourth aspect, wherein the at least one electronic component includes a camera module and/or at least one sensor module including a sensor.

A seventh aspect pertains to the electronic device of the first aspect, wherein the housing includes a side portion, and a support extending from the side portion to the internal space; and the first space is defined by a plate-shaped first cover coupled to at least a portion of the support.

An eighth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the seventh aspect, wherein the first opening penetrating the side portion from an outer surface of the side portion to the internal space; and the second space is connected to the first opening through a configuration of the side portion and the support.

A ninth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the seventh aspect, wherein the third space is disposed to cover the first cover to the side portion and is defined by a second cover coupled to the support; and the third space is connected to the second opening comprising a gap between the side portion and the cover spaced apart from the side portion.

A tenth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the ninth aspect, wherein the second cover includes at least one sound emission hole configured to transmit sounds from the third space toward the second opening.

An eleventh aspect pertains to the electronic device of the seventh aspect, further comprising a display disposed at the back of the cover and at least partially visible from the outside through the cover, wherein the side portion further includes a protruding dummy projection projecting toward the display.

A twelfth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the eleventh aspect, wherein the protruding dummy projection protrudes to at least partially overlap the cover and to have a preset gap with the cover when the cover member is viewed from above.

A thirteenth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the twelfth aspect, wherein the third space is provided at a preset depth under the protruding dummy projection and is diagonally inclined through the side portion.

A fourteenth aspect pertains to the electronic device of the first aspect, further comprising a second acoustic module disposed at a position opposite the first acoustic module in the internal space of the housing, wherein sound signals of the first acoustic module and the second acoustic module are configured to be emitted in opposite directions.

Claim 1:
An electronic device (<NUM>) comprising:
a lateral member (<NUM>) forming at least a part of a lateral side of the electronic device (<NUM>);
a cover (<NUM>) at least partially disposed on the lateral member (<NUM>);
an acoustic module (<NUM>) disposed in an internal space (<NUM>) of the electronic device (<NUM>);
at least one first opening (<NUM>) provided through at least a portion of the lateral side in the lateral member (<NUM>);
a second opening (<NUM>) provided through a space between the lateral member (<NUM>) and the cover (<NUM>);
an electronic component (<NUM>, <NUM>) disposed in the internal space (<NUM>) adjacent to the second opening (<NUM>); and
an acoustic path configured to guide sound generated from the acoustic module (<NUM>) to an outside through the at least one of the first opening (<NUM>) and the second opening (<NUM>),
wherein the acoustic path includes:
a first space (SP1) at least partially disposed proximate the electronic component (<NUM>, <NUM>), when the cover (<NUM>) is viewed from above;
a second space (SP2) that connects the first space (SP1) to the at least one first opening (<NUM>), wherein at least part of the second space (SP2) and the first space (SP1) are arranged to form a first acoustic path, when the cover (<NUM>) is viewed from above; and
a third space (SP3) that is branched from the first acoustic path connected to the second opening (<NUM>) and is formed to change direction of sound from the first acoustic path toward the electronic component (<NUM>, <NUM>) along the lateral member (<NUM>) so as to bypass the electronic component (<NUM>, <NUM>), when the cover (<NUM>) is viewed from above.