Patent ID: 12219311

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, example embodiments will be described in 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 will be omitted.

FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device101in a network environment100according to various example embodiments.

Referring toFIG.1, the electronic device101in the network environment100may connect with an electronic device102via a first network198(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or connect with at least one of an electronic device104or a server108via a second network199(e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an example embodiment, the electronic device101may connect with the electronic device104via the server108. According to an example embodiment, the electronic device101may include a processor120, a memory130, an input module150, a sound output module155, a display module160, an audio module170, a sensor module176, an interface177, a connecting terminal178, a haptic module179, a camera module180, a power management module188, a battery189, a communication module190, a subscriber identification module (SIM)196, or an antenna module197. In some example embodiments, at least one (e.g., the connecting terminal178) of the above components may be omitted from the electronic device101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device101. In some example embodiments, some (e.g., the sensor module176, the camera module180, or the antenna module197) of the components may be integrated as a single component (e.g., the display module160).

The processor120may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program140) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device101connected to the processor120, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to an example embodiment, as at least a part of data processing or computation, the processor120may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module176or the communication module190) in a volatile memory132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory132, and store resulting data in a non-volatile memory134. According to an example embodiment, the processor120may include a main processor121(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)) or an auxiliary processor123(e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently of, or in conjunction with the main processor121. For example, when the electronic device101includes the main processor121and the auxiliary processor123, the auxiliary processor123may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor121or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor123may be implemented separately from the main processor121or as a part of the main processor121.

The auxiliary processor123may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one (e.g., the display module160, the sensor module176, or the communication module190) of the components of the electronic device101, instead of the main processor121while the main processor121is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state or along with the main processor121while the main processor121is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an example embodiment, the auxiliary processor123(e.g., an ISP or a CP) may be implemented as a portion of another component (e.g., the camera module180or the communication module190) that is functionally related to the auxiliary processor123. According to an example embodiment, the auxiliary processor123(e.g., an NPU) may include a hardware structure specified for artificial intelligence (AI) model processing. An AI model may be generated by machine learning. Such learning may be performed by, for example, the electronic device101in which an artificial intelligence model is executed, or performed via a separate server (e.g., the server108). Learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. An artificial neural network may include, for example, a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), and a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more thereof, but is not limited thereto. The artificial intelligence model may additionally or alternatively, include a software structure other than the hardware structure.

The memory130may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor120or the sensor module176) of the electronic device101. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program140) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory130may include the volatile memory132or the non-volatile memory134. The non-volatile memory134may include an internal memory136and an external memory138.

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

The input module150may receive a command or data to be used by another component (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101. The input module150may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The sound output module155may output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device101. The sound output module155may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record. The receiver may be used to receive an incoming call. According to an example embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as a part of the speaker.

The display module160may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101. The display module160may include, for example, a control circuit for controlling a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, the hologram device, and the projector. According to an example embodiment, the display device160may include a touch sensor adapted to sense a touch, or a pressure sensor adapted to measure an intensity of a force incurred by the touch.

The audio module170may convert a sound into an electric signal or vice versa. According to an example embodiment, the audio module170may obtain the sound via the input device150or output the sound via the sound output device155or an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device102such as a speaker or a headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device101.

The sensor module176may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device101or an environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external to the electronic device101, and generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to an example embodiment, the sensor module176may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface177may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device101to be coupled with the 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 connecting terminal178may include a connector via which the electronic device101may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102). According to an example embodiment, the connecting terminal178may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module179may convert an electric 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.

The communication module190may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device101and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102, the electronic device104, or the server108) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module190may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently of the processor120(e.g., an AP) and that support a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an example embodiment, the communication module190may include a wireless communication module192(e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module194(e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device104via the first network198(e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network199(e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module192may identify and authenticate the electronic device101in a communication network, such as the first network198or the second network199, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the SIM196.

The wireless communication module192may support a 5G network after a 4G network, and next-generation communication technology, e.g., new radio (NR) access technology. The NR access technology may support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communications (mMTC), or ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC). The wireless communication module192may support a high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band) to achieve, e.g., a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module192may support various technologies for securing performance on a high-frequency band, such as, e.g., beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (massive MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), an array antenna, analog beam-forming, or a large scale antenna. The wireless communication module192may support various requirements specified in the electronic device101, an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device104), or a network system (e.g., the second network199). According to an example embodiment, the wireless communication module192may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for implementing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for each of downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or a round trip of 1 ms or less) for implementing URLLC.

The antenna module197may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device101. According to an example embodiment, the antenna module197may include an antenna including a radiating element including a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an example embodiment, the antenna module197may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in a communication network, such as the first network198or the second network199, may be selected by, for example, the communication module190from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may be transmitted or received between the communication module190and the external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. According to an example embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module197.

According to various example embodiments, the antenna module197may form a mmWave antenna module. According to an example embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a PCB, an RFIC disposed on a first surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the PCB or adjacent to the first surface and capable of supporting a designated a high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on a second surface (e.g., a top or a side surface) of the PCB, or adjacent to the second surface and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

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

According to an example embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device101and the external electronic device104via the server108coupled with the second network199. Each of the external electronic devices102or104may be a device of the same type as or a different type from the electronic device101. According to an example embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed by the electronic device101may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices102,104, and108. For example, if the electronic device101needs to perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device101, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and may transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device101. The electronic device101may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at least part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device101may provide ultra low-latency services using, e.g., distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another example embodiment, the external electronic device104may include an Internet-of-things (IoT) device. The server108may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or a neural network. According to an example embodiment, the external electronic device104or the server108may be included in the second network199. The electronic device101may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technology.

The electronic device according to various example embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance device. According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic device is not limited to those described above.

It should be appreciated that various example embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for a corresponding embodiment. In connection with the description of the drawings, like reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. It is to be understood that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “A, B, or C,” each of which may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding one of the phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as “first”, “second”, or “first” or “second” may simply be used to distinguish the component from other components in question, and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order). It is to be understood that if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to, with or without the term “operatively” or “communicatively”, as “coupled with,” “coupled to,” “connected with,” or “connected to” another element (e.g., a second element), it means that the element may be coupled with the other element directly (e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via a third element.

As used in connection with various example embodiments of the disclosure, the term “module” may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may interchangeably be used with other terms, for example, “logic,” “logic block,” “part,” or “circuitry”. A module may be a single integral component, or a minimum unit or part thereof, adapted to perform one or more functions. For example, according to an example embodiment, the module may be implemented in a form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Various example embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., the program140) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory136or an external memory138) that is readable by a machine (e.g., the electronic device101) For example, a processor (e.g., the processor120) of the machine (e.g., the electronic device101) may invoke at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, and execute it. This allows the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction invoked. The one or more instructions may include a code generated by a compiler or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term “non-transitory” simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.

According to an example embodiment, a method according to various example embodiments of the disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online via an application store (e.g., PlayStore™), or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. If distributed online, at least part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in the machine-readable storage medium, such as memory of the manufacturer's server, a server of the application store, or a relay server.

According to various example embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately disposed in different components. According to various example embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, according to various example embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components before the integration. According to various example embodiments, operations performed by the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being related to another element such as being “on” another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may be present therebetween. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being related to another element such as being “directly on” another element, there are no intervening elements present. For example, elements which are “directly on” each other, may form an interface with each other, may contact each other, etc.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, “a”, “an,” “the,” and “at least one” do not denote a limitation of quantity, and are intended to include both the singular and plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, “an element” has the same meaning as “at least one element,” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. “At least one” is not to be construed as limiting “a” or “an.” “Or” means “and/or.” As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” or “includes” and/or “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Furthermore, relative terms, such as “lower” or “bottom” and “upper” or “top,” may be used herein to describe one element's relationship to another element as illustrated in the Figures. It will be understood that relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the Figures. For example, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, elements described as being on the “lower” side of other elements would then be oriented on “upper” sides of the other elements. The term “lower,” can therefore, encompasses both an orientation of “lower” and “upper,” depending on the particular orientation of the figure. Similarly, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements would then be oriented “above” the other elements. The terms “below” or “beneath” can, therefore, encompass both an orientation of above and below.

“About” or “approximately” as used herein is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, considering the measurement in question and the error associated with measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, 20%, 10% or 5% of the stated value.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Embodiments are described herein with reference to cross section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions as illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. For example, a region illustrated or described as flat may, typically, have rough and/or nonlinear features. Moreover, sharp angles that are illustrated may be rounded. Thus, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region and are not intended to limit the scope of the present claims.

Referring toFIGS.1,2A and2B, an electronic device200according to an example embodiment may include a housing210including a first surface (or a front surface)210A, a second surface (or a rear surface)210B, and a side surface210C (e.g., a side portion of the housing) which together surround or define an inner space of the electronic device200. In another example embodiment (not shown), the housing may also refer to a structure which forms a portion of the first surface210A, the second surface210B, and the side surface210C ofFIGS.2A and2B. In an example embodiment, the first surface210A may be formed of (or defined by) a front cover202(e.g., a polymer plate or a glass plate including various coating layers) of which at least a portion is substantially transparent. The second surface210B may be formed of a back cover211that is substantially opaque. For example, the back cover211may be formed of (or include) coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal materials (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium) or a combination of at least two of the above materials. The side surface210C may be coupled to the front cover202and the back cover211and may be formed by a side cover (or a “side member”)218including metal and/or polymer. In some example embodiments, the back cover211and the side cover218may be integrally formed and may include the same material (e.g., a metal material, such as aluminum).

In the illustrated example embodiment, the front cover202(e.g., a front portion of the housing) may include two first areas210D that are curved and extend seamlessly from the first surface210A and in a direction toward the back cover211, to define opposing long edges of the front cover202. In the illustrated example embodiment, the back cover211(e.g., a back portion of the housing) may include two second areas210E that are curved and extend seamlessly from the second surface210B and in a direction toward the front cover202, to define opposing long edges of the back cover211. In some example embodiments, the front cover202(or the back cover211) may include only one of the first areas210D (or the second areas210E). In another example embodiment, some of the first areas210D or the second areas210E may not be included. In an example embodiment, when viewing a side surface of the electronic device200, the side cover218may have a first thickness (or width) in a thickness direction (e.g., along a Z direction) of the electronic device200, where the side cover218does not include (e.g., excludes) the first areas210D or the second areas210E, and may have a second thickness that is less than the first thickness in the thickness direction by including thicknesses of the first areas210D or the second areas210E.

According to an example embodiment, the electronic device200may include at least one of a display201, audio modules203,207, and214, sensor modules204,216, and219, camera modules205,212, and213, key input devices217, a light-emitting element206, and connector holes208and209. In some example embodiments, the electronic device200may not include at least one (e.g., the key input devices217or the light-emitting element206) of the components above, or may additionally include other components.

The display201may be exposed (or visible) from outside the electronic device200, through a substantial portion of the front cover202, for example. The display201may generate and/or display an image, generate and/or emit light used for an image, etc., such that the image may be visible from outside the electronic device200, through a substantial portion of the front cover202. In some example embodiments, at least a portion of the display201may be exposed through the front cover202that forms the first surface210A and the first areas210D, such as to define display areas (e.g., portions of a screen display area) of the electronic device200at each of the first surface210A and the first areas210D. In some example embodiments, an edge of the display201may be formed to be substantially the same as an adjacent outer shape of the front cover202. The edge of the display201may be defined in a plan view, e.g., along the Z direction) In another example embodiment (not shown), a distance between an outer edge of the display201and an outer edge of the front cover202may be substantially the same to expand an exposed area (e.g., a planar area) of the display201at which an image is visible.

In another example embodiment (not shown), the electronic device200may have a recess or an opening formed (or defined) in a portion of a screen display area of the display201, and may include at least one of the audio module214, the sensor module204, the camera module205, and the light-emitting element206that are aligned with the recess or the opening. In an example embodiment (not shown), at least one of the audio module214, the sensor module204, the camera module205, the sensor module216(e.g., a fingerprint sensor), and the light-emitting element206may be included on a rear surface of the screen display area of the display201. In another example embodiment (not shown), the display201may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch sensing circuit, a pressure sensor for measuring an intensity (pressure) of a touch, and/or a digitizer for detecting a magnetic-type stylus pen. In some example embodiments, at least some of the sensor modules204and219, and/or at least some of the key input devices217may be disposed in the first areas210D and/or the second areas210E.

The audio modules203,207, and214may include a plate hole203, speaker holes207and214, and a microphone (not shown) provided in the housing210. The plate hole203may be open to outside the electronic device200and guide sound from outside of the electronic device200, to the microphone. The speaker holes207and214may include an external speaker hole207and a receiver hole for a call214. In some example embodiments, the speaker holes207and214and the plate hole203may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) may be included without the speaker holes207and214. The various holes defined herein may be open to outside the electronic device200, to deliver or guide an audio sound, to and/or from a component within the electronic device200.

The sensor modules204,216, and219may generate an electrical signal or a data value corresponding to an internal operational state of the electronic device200or an external environmental state (e.g., outside of the electronic device200). The sensor modules204,216, and219may include, for example, a first sensor module204(e.g., a proximity sensor) and/or a second sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the first surface210A of the housing210, and/or a third sensor module219(e.g., a heart rate monitoring (HRM) sensor) and/or a fourth sensor module216(e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the second surface210B of the housing210. The fingerprint sensor may be disposed on both the first surface210A (e.g., the display201) and the second surface210B of the housing210. The electronic device200may further include at least one of sensor modules (not shown), for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and an illuminance sensor.

The camera modules205,212, and213may include a first camera device205disposed on the first surface210A of the electronic device200, a second camera device212disposed on the second surface210B, and/or a flash213. The camera modules205and212may each include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. The flash213may include, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED) or a xenon lamp. In some example embodiments, two or more lenses (e.g., infrared camera, wide-angle, and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface of the electronic device200.

The key input devices217may be disposed on the side surface210C of the housing210. In another example embodiment, the electronic device200may not include a portion or entirety of the key input devices217mentioned above, and the key input device217that is not included may be implemented in another form such as a soft key on the display201. In some example embodiments, the key input devices217may include the sensor module216disposed on the second surface210B of the housing210.

The light-emitting element206may be disposed on, for example, the first surface210A of the housing210. The light-emitting element206may provide, for example, state information of the electronic device200in the form of light. In another example embodiment, the light-emitting element206may provide, for example, a light source that is linked to the operation of the camera module205. The light-emitting element206may include, for example, an LED, an IR LED, and a xenon lamp.

The connector holes208and209may include a connector hole208for accommodating 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 connector hole (e.g., an earphone jack)209for accommodating a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals to and from an external electronic device. The various holes defined herein may be open to outside the electronic device200, to expose internal components within the electronic device200to outside thereof, for connection or interface with a component external to the electronic device200.

FIG.3is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a plurality of acoustic ducts according to an example embodiment.FIG.3is a cross-sectional view taken along a line A-A ofFIG.2B.

Referring toFIG.3, an electronic device300(e.g., the electronic device200ofFIG.2A) including a plurality of acoustic ducts (hereinafter, referred to as the “electronic device”) may have a structure that may reduce damage to a microphone by preventing the delivery of excessive external energy to the microphone.

In an example embodiment, for ease of description, a direction (e.g., a +Z direction) in which a display301(e.g., the display201ofFIG.2) of the electronic device300is exposed to outside the electronic device300is defined as a front direction, and an opposite direction (e.g., a −Z direction) to the front direction is defined as a rear direction (or, a back direction). The display301may be disposed in a plane defined by a first direction and a second direction which cross each other, for example, a Y direction and an X direction.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device300may include a main body320, a front cover302enclosing (or extending along) the main body320and facing the front direction, a back cover311facing the rear direction, a side cover318, the display301connected to the front cover302, a PCB321disposed on a side (e.g., the −Z direction) of the main body320, a microphone322disposed on the PCB321(or, electrically connected to the PCB321), a mesh part323disposed on a side (e.g., the −Z direction) of the main body320and placed between the main body320and the PCB321, a cover324disposed between the main body320and the back cover311and configured to cover the microphone322, a main acoustic duct325penetrating the main body320and open to outside thereof, and a sub-acoustic duct326connected to the main acoustic duct315and penetrating the main body320and open to outside thereof.

In an example embodiment, the main body320may support various components of the electronic device300. For example, the main body320may support the PCB321. The main body320may be connected to at least one of the front cover302, the back cover311, and/or the side cover318. For example, the front cover302and/or the back cover311may be connected to the main body320through an adhesive layer327. For example, an outer side surface of the main body320may be provided in a shape corresponding to an inner side surface of the side cover318. The main body320may be placed between the front cover302and the back cover311. In the front direction of the main body320, for example, in the +Z direction, the front cover302may be provided, and in the rear direction of the main body320, for example, in the −Z direction, the back cover311may be provided.

In an example embodiment, the front cover302may be provided in the +Z direction of the main body320. The front cover302may support the display301. In an example embodiment, in case the front cover302and the side cover318are separate components, for example, in case the front cover302and the side cover318are not integrally formed as one, a fine gap may be provided between the front cover302and the side cover318. For example, the fine gap may be a gap provided between two different covers when the two covers are assembled. For example, a size of the fine gap may be greater than or equal to about 0.1 millimeter (mm) to less than or equal to 1 mm.

In various example embodiments of the present disclosure, the fine gap provided between the front cover302and the side cover318is referred to as a front gap G2.

In an example embodiment, the back cover311may be provided at an opposite side of the front cover302, based on the main body320. The back cover311may be provided in the −Z direction of the main body320. In an example embodiment, in case the back cover311and the side cover318are separate components, for example, in case the back cover311and the side cover318are not integrally formed, a fine gap may be provided between the back cover311and the side cover318. In various example embodiments of the present disclosure, the fine gap provided between the back cover311and the side cover318is referred to as a rear gap G1.

In an example embodiment, the side cover318may be placed in a side direction, e.g., an X direction and/or a Y direction of the main body320. A shape of an inner side surface of the side cover318may correspond to a shape of an outer side surface of the main body320. The side cover318may include a main plate hole318a(e.g., the plate hole203ofFIG.2A) connecting with the main acoustic duct325. The main acoustic duct325may be open to outside the electronic device300at the main plate hole318a. For example, energy generated from the outside (e.g., vibrational energy) may move into the main acoustic duct325, through the main plate hole318awhich is open to the outside and connected to the main acoustic duct325.

In an example embodiment, the PCB321may be disposed on the main body320. The PCB321, for example, may be mounted to the main body320by an adhesive (not shown).

In an example embodiment, the microphone322may be disposed on the PCB321. Alternatively, the microphone322may be electrically connected to the PCB321through a connecting member (e.g., a connector, a flexible PCB (FPCB), and a conductive pin). Hereinafter, for ease of description, the description is provided where the microphone322is disposed on the PCB321, however the example embodiments are not limited thereto.

In an example embodiment, the microphone322may include a microphone sensor. For example, the microphone sensor may include a micro electromechanical system (MEMS) acoustic transducer. For example, the microphone322may include the MEMS acoustic transducer formed by silicon bulk micromachining. The microphone322may include a microphone body3221connected to the PCB321, a diaphragm3222connected to the microphone body3221, a back plate3223connected to the microphone body3221and spaced apart from the diaphragm3222, a microphone circuit3224placed on the microphone body3221, a microphone housing3225connected to the microphone body3221and enclosing the diaphragm3222together with the back plate3223and the microphone circuit3224. For example, the microphone circuit3224may include an ASIC.

In an example embodiment, the back plate3223may be provided at a location spaced apart from the diaphragm3222in the −Z direction. Although not illustrated in the drawings, the back plate3223may be provided at a location spaced apart from the diaphragm3222in the +Z direction. The number of back plates3223is illustrated as one in the drawings, however, example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of back plates may be provided, and some of the back plates may be provided at locations spaced apart from the diaphragm3222in the −Z direction, and the other back plates may be provided at locations spaced apart from the diaphragm3222in the +Z direction.

In an example embodiment, the back plate3223may include a plurality of penetrating holes. For example, air or a sound wave that flowed into the main acoustic duct325from the outside, may be emitted to the outside of the microphone322through the plurality of penetrating holes of the back plate3223.

In an example embodiment, the microphone322may convert capacitance, between the back plate3223and the diaphragm3222which changes as the diaphragm3222vibrates due to a sound wave that flowed through a duct (e.g., the main acoustic duct325), into an electrical signal by the microphone circuit.

In an example embodiment, the microphone body3221of the microphone322may include a base part3221aflatly disposed on the PCB321, and a loader3221bwhich protrudes from the base part3221atoward the −Z direction. The base part3221amay include (or define) a first hole h1in (or along) the Z direction, at one side of the base part3221a. The one side of the base part3221amay be an end which is closer to the side cover318, with reference to a center portion of the electronic device300.

In an example embodiment, the PCB321may include a second hole h2penetrating in the Z direction at one side of the PCB321and connecting with the first hole h1. The first hole h1and the second hole h2may be aligned with each other, and may together form a single hole. The mesh part323may include a third hole h3penetrating in the +Z direction at one side of the mesh part323and connecting with the first hole h1and the second hole h2. The main acoustic duct325, the third hole h3, the second hole h2, and the first hole h1may be provided to sequentially connect with each other and together form a single flow path for energy (e.g., a sound wave, vibrational energy) that flows into the main acoustic duct325. Vibration entering inside the main acoustic duct325from the outside may move along the main acoustic duct325, and may reach the diaphragm3222by sequentially passing through the third hole h3, the second hole h2, and the first hole h1.

In an example embodiment, as pressure applied to the diaphragm3222increases, a central portion of the diaphragm3222may gradually approach the back plate3223in the −Z direction. When the pressure applied to the diaphragm3222exceeds a threshold, the diaphragm3222may collide with the back plate3223. In an example embodiment, the electronic device300may assist by providing the main acoustic duct325as well as the sub-acoustic duct326in the main body320such that relatively small pressure may apply to a space in which the microphone322is placed. A portion of pressure entering the main acoustic duct325from the outside may be distributed to the sub-acoustic duct326. A detailed example embodiment on the main acoustic duct325and the sub-acoustic duct326is described below.

In an example embodiment, the mesh part323may reduce moisture and/or a foreign material inflow into a space between the main body320and the back cover311. The mesh part323may include a mesh body3231connected to the main body320, and a mesh plate3232supported by the mesh body3231and placed between the diaphragm3222and the main acoustic duct325. The mesh plate3232may have a mesh structure (e.g., solid portions spaced apart from each other to define openings therebetween). The mesh plate3232may filter moisture and/or a foreign material moving from the main acoustic duct325, to the microphone322. The mesh plate3232may be disposed on (or across) the third hole h3. Although not illustrated in the drawings, the mesh plate3232may be integrally formed with the mesh body3231, and may have a structure including a plurality of holes or openings. For example, the plurality of holes provided on the mesh plate3232may be formed by injection molding or a cutting process. The plurality of holes provided in the mesh plate3232may connect with the main acoustic duct325, and may connect with the second hole h2and the first hole h1.

In an example embodiment, the cover324may cover the microphone322. The cover324may be connected to the main body320. The cover324may set a size of a space in which the microphone322is placed.

In an example embodiment, the main acoustic duct325may penetrate the main body320. A space in which the diaphragm3222is placed may connect with the outside of the electronic device300via the main acoustic duct325. The main acoustic duct325may connect with the main plate hole318a. Energy (e.g., a sound wave, vibrational energy) generated from the outside may move to inside the main acoustic duct325through the main plate hole318a. A portion of the energy delivered to the inside of the main acoustic duct325may be emitted back to the outside through the sub-acoustic duct326, which is described below. A portion of the energy delivered to the inside of the main acoustic duct325and not emitted back to the outside may be delivered to the space in which the diaphragm3222is placed.

In an example embodiment, the sub-acoustic duct326may penetrate the main body320. The external space of the electronic device300(e.g., an outside environment) may connect with the main acoustic duct325via the sub-acoustic duct326. The sub-acoustic duct326may emit a portion of energy entering inside the main acoustic duct325from the outside, back to the outside before the energy is delivered to the diaphragm3222. That is, an acoustic duct which is closer to an outside of the electronic device300than the microphone322, may be open to the outside at a plurality of openings (e.g., an energy input hole and an energy output hole).

In an example embodiment, the main acoustic duct325may include an external opening3251(e.g., inlet of the main body320) open toward the main plate hole318a, an internal opening3252open toward the diaphragm3222, and a connection opening3253open toward the sub-acoustic duct326. The connection opening3253may be placed between the external opening3251and the internal opening3252. The connection opening3253may be placed on (or corresponding to) a region of a central portion of the main acoustic duct325. A portion of the energy entering inside the main acoustic duct325through the external opening3251may emit to the outside through the connection opening3253, and a remainder of the entering energy may be emitted to the space in which the diaphragm3222is placed, through the internal opening3252.

In an example embodiment, the sub-acoustic duct326may guide the portion of the energy (e.g., a sound wave or air pressure) entering inside the main acoustic duct325through the external opening3251to the outside. Even though large pressure is applied to the inside of the main acoustic duct325, the pressure may be distributed through the sub-acoustic duct326, and thus, the diaphragm3222may be prevented from receiving excessively large pressure.

In an example embodiment, in case pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct325between the external opening3251and the connection opening3253is first pressure (e.g., first energy pressure), pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct325between the connection opening3253and the internal opening3252may be second pressure (e.g., second energy pressure), which is less than the first pressure. The portion of energy entering inside the main acoustic duct325may be distributed through the connection opening3253, and thus, the pressure may be reduced while passing through the connection opening3253.

In an example embodiment, pressure of the space in which the diaphragm3222is placed may be less than the pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct325between the external opening3251and the connection opening3253. For example, the pressure of a space between the main body320and the back cover311may be less than the pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct325between the external opening3251and the connection opening3253.

In an example embodiment, the sub-acoustic duct326may be provided in a direction from the main acoustic duct325toward the back cover311. For example, the sub-acoustic duct326may be provided in a shape inclined in the −Z direction toward the −Y direction. The sub-acoustic duct326may not be covered by the back cover311and/or the side cover318. That is, the sub-acoustic duct326may be exposed outside of the back cover311and/or the side cover318. For example, the sub-acoustic duct326may define an outlet of the main body320and be connected with the rear gap G1provided between the back cover311and the side cover318. A separate hole to expose the sub-acoustic duct326to the outside may not be provided on the back cover311or the side cover318. For example, energy entering the sub-acoustic duct326may be emitted to the outside of the electronic device300through the rear gap G1. That is, the acoustic duct of the electronic device300may be in fluid connection with the rear gap G1.

In cross-section, the acoustic duct may have a dimension (e.g., a diameter, a height, etc.). In an example embodiment, a diameter of the sub-acoustic duct326may be less than a diameter of the main acoustic duct325. For example, the diameters of the main acoustic duct325and the sub-acoustic duct326may change in the longitudinal direction, respectively. The longitudinal direction may correspond to a direction of the energy flow path. A smallest (or minimum) diameter D1of the main acoustic duct325may be greater than a greatest (or maximum) diameter D2of the sub-acoustic duct326. Even if a size of the main body320is small, the sub-acoustic duct326may be easily provided when the diameter of the sub-acoustic duct326is small. It should be noted that in an embodiment, the diameter of the sub-acoustic duct326may be greater than the diameter of the main acoustic duct325.

FIG.4Ais a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a plurality of acoustic ducts with a connection opening closable by a door plate according to an example embodiment, andFIG.4Bis a cross-sectional view of the electronic device including the plurality of acoustic ducts with a connection opening open according to an example embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.4A and4B, an electronic device400(e.g., the electronic device200ofFIG.2A) may include a door plate428rotatably coupled to the main body420and configured to open and close a connection opening4253. For example, the electronic device400may include an elastic body429of which one end (e.g., a first end) is connected to the main body420and the other end (e.g., a second end opposite to the first end) is connected to the door plate428, to apply elastic force to the door plate428.

In an example embodiment, when external force (e.g., pressure) equal to or greater than a first intensity is not applied to the elastic body429through the door plate428(FIG.4A), the elastic body429may be in a maximum tensile state (e.g., maximally extended) while the elastic body429is disposed on the electronic device400. For example, when the external force equal to or greater than the first intensity is not applied to the elastic body429through the door plate428, the door plate428may close the connection opening4253. Here, the elastic body429may provide force with a second intensity to the door plate428such that the door plate428may maintain the connection opening4253closed. For example, the first intensity may be an intensity of force that further contracts the elastic body429, and the second intensity may be a value equal to or less than the first intensity.

In an example embodiment, when pressure increases as a sound wave or air flows into the main acoustic duct425, pressure transferred through the inside of the main acoustic duct425may press the door plate428toward the −Z direction (FIG.4B). When the door plate428presses the elastic body429by an intensity equal to or greater than the first intensity due to the pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct425, the elastic body429may be contracted and the door plate428may be rotated in a direction that opens the connection opening4253. As the door plate428opens, a portion of the sound wave or air that flowed into the main acoustic duct425may be emitted to the outside through the sub-acoustic duct and exit the electronic device400through a rear gap G1. Since the portion of the sound wave or the air is emitted to the outside through the rear gap G1, the intensity of pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct425may decrease, and an intensity of the pressure delivered to a microphone422may decrease.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device400may further include a structure (e.g., stopper) configured to prevent the door plate428from opening toward the main acoustic duct425(e.g., toward the +Z direction) so as to prevent sound wave or air from flowing into the main acoustic duct425through the rear gap G1.

FIG.5is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a plurality of acoustic ducts according to an example embodiment.

Referring toFIG.5, in an example embodiment, an electronic device500(e.g., the electronic device200ofFIG.2A) may include a plurality of acoustic ducts, that is, a main acoustic duct525and a sub-acoustic duct526. The sub-acoustic duct526may penetrate a main body520. The sub-acoustic duct526may be provided in a direction from the main acoustic duct525toward a front cover502. The sub-acoustic duct526may not be covered by the front cover502and/or a side cover518. For example, the sub-acoustic duct526may connect with a front gap G2placed between the front cover502and the side cover518. A separate hole to expose the sub-acoustic duct526to the outside may not be provided in the front cover502or the side cover518.

In an example embodiment, the sub-acoustic duct526may include a region of which a diameter increases in a direction from the front gap G2toward the main acoustic duct525. For example, a diameter of a region of the sub-acoustic duct526, adjacent to the front gap G2at a distal end of the sub-acoustic duct526, may be less than a diameter of a region of the sub-acoustic duct526, adjacent to the main acoustic duct525.

In an example embodiment, a base part5221amay include a first hole h1penetrating the base part5221ain (or along) the Z direction at one side of the base part. A PCB521may include a second hole h2penetrating the PCB521in the Z direction at one side of the PCB521and connecting with the first hole h1. The mesh part523may include a third hole h3penetrating in the Z direction on one side of the mesh part523and connecting with the first hole h1and the second hole h2. The main acoustic duct525may include the third hole h3, the second hole h2, and the first hole h1sequentially connecting with each other. A sound wave or air entering inside the main acoustic duct525from the outside may move along the main acoustic duct525and may reach a microphone522by sequentially passing through the third hole h3, the second hole h2, and the first hole h1.

In an example embodiment, a portion of the sound wave or the air entering inside the main acoustic duct525may be emitted to the outside through the front gap G2. Since the portion of the sound wave or the air is emitted to the outside through the front gap G2, an intensity of pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct525may decrease and an intensity of pressure delivered to the microphone522may decrease.

FIG.6Ais a side view of an electronic device including a plurality of acoustic ducts according to an example embodiment,FIG.6Bis a cross-sectional view of the electronic device including the plurality of acoustic ducts according to an example embodiment, andFIG.6Cis a cross-sectional view of the electronic device including the plurality of acoustic ducts from an angle different fromFIG.6Baccording to an example embodiment.FIG.6Bis a cross-sectional view taken along a line B-B ofFIG.6A.

Referring toFIGS.6A to6C, an electronic device600(e.g., the electronic device200ofFIG.2A) may include a main body620, a front cover602enclosing the main body620, a back cover611, a side cover618, a display601connected to the front cover602, a PCB621disposed on a side of the main body620, a microphone622disposed on the PCB621, a mesh part623disposed on another side of the main body620and placed between the main body620and the PCB621, a cover624disposed between the main body620and the back cover611and configured to cover the microphone622, a main acoustic duct625penetrating the main body620, and a sub-acoustic duct626penetrating the main body620.

The side cover618may include a main plate hole618aconnecting with the main acoustic duct625, and a sub plate hole618bconnecting with the sub-acoustic duct626. The main plate hole618aand the sub plate hole618bmay be spaced apart from each other in a width direction of the electronic device600, that is, the X direction. The main plate hole618aand the sub plate hole618bmay be defined at a same side of the electronic device600, and spaced apart from each other along the side cover618.

In an example embodiment, the microphone622may include a microphone body6221connected to the PCB621, a diaphragm6222connected to the microphone body6221, and a back plate6223connected to the microphone body6221and spaced apart from the diaphragm6222.

The main body620may include an outer side surface closest to and facing the side cover618. In an example embodiment, the main acoustic duct625may include an external opening6251open toward the main plate hole618aof the side cover618, an internal opening6252open toward the diaphragm6222, and a connection opening6253open toward the sub-acoustic duct626. The connection opening6253may be placed between the external opening6251and the internal opening6252, along a flow path for energy received from outside the electronic device600. The external opening6251of the main body620may be defined at the outer side surface of the main body620.

In an example embodiment, when excessive pressure applies to inside the main acoustic duct625, the excessive pressure may be emitted to the outside through the sub-acoustic duct626and to outside the electronic device600through the sub plate hole618b, before the excessive pressure is delivered to the diaphragm6222. Thus, a phenomenon of an excessive increase in pressure of a space in which the diaphragm6222is placed may be reduced or prevented.

In an example embodiment, the sub-acoustic duct626may include a sub duct body6261(e.g., duct portion) provided substantially in parallel with the main acoustic duct625and a connecting part6262(e.g., connection portion or connecting duct) extending from the sub duct body6261toward the main acoustic duct625. The connecting part6262may connect the sub duct body6261to the main acoustic duct625. For example, the sub duct body6261may have the same or a different size in cross-section, from the main acoustic duct625.

According to various example embodiments, one skilled in the art will understand that the main acoustic duct625and the sub-acoustic duct626may have a difference in at least one of a size, a length, and/or a shape from the drawings. For example, the sub-acoustic duct626may penetrate the main body620in an irregular shape (e.g., a wave shape).

In an example embodiment, when abnormally large pressure applies to the inside of the main acoustic duct625, a portion of the pressure may be emitted to the outside through the sub-acoustic duct626and the sub plate hole618b. Through the pressure emission, applying abnormally large pressure to a space in which the diaphragm6222is placed may be prevented.

FIG.7Ais a side view of an electronic device including a plurality of acoustic ducts according to an example embodiment, andFIG.7Bis a cross-sectional view of the electronic device including the plurality of acoustic ducts according to an example embodiment.FIG.7Bis a cross-sectional view taken along a line C-C ofFIG.7A.

Referring toFIGS.7A and7B, an electronic device700(e.g., the electronic device200ofFIG.2A) may include a main body720and a side cover718connected to the main body720. A main acoustic duct725and a sub-acoustic duct726may be provided in the main body720. The main acoustic duct725and the sub-acoustic duct726may penetrate the main body720. The side cover718may include a main plate hole718aconnecting with the main acoustic duct725, and a sub plate hole718bprovided in plural each connecting with the sub-acoustic duct726.

In an example embodiment, the main acoustic duct725may include an external opening7251open toward a main plate hole718a, and a connection opening open toward the sub-acoustic duct726.

In an example embodiment, the sub-acoustic duct726may include a plurality of duct bodies7261(e.g., a sub-duct provided in plural including a plurality of sub-ducts) each extended substantially in parallel with the main acoustic duct725, and a connecting part7262extending from the plurality of sub duct bodies7261toward the main acoustic duct725. The plurality of sub duct bodies7261may connect with the main acoustic duct725via the connecting part7262. The plurality of sub duct bodies7261may include a first sub duct body7261a(e.g., a first sub-duct) and a second sub duct body7261b(e.g., a second sub-duct) provided in parallel with each other. In an example embodiment, at least one of the main acoustic duct725, the first sub duct body7261a, and the second sub duct body7261bmay have the same size or a different size from the other, along the plane defined by the X direction and the Y direction crossing each other, and/or along the thickness direction (e.g., the Z direction).

According to various example embodiments, one skilled in the art will understand that the main acoustic duct725and the sub-acoustic duct726may have a difference in at least one of a size, a length, and/or a shape from the drawings.

The electronic device300including the plurality of acoustic ducts according to various example embodiments may include the main body320, the PCB321disposed on the main body, the microphone322including the microphone body3221connected to the PCB, the diaphragm3222connected to the microphone body and the back plate3223connected to the microphone body and spaced apart from the diaphragm, the front cover302connected to the main body, the back cover311connected to the main body and provided at an opposite side to the front cover based on the main body, the main acoustic duct325penetrating the main body and configured to connect the space in which the diaphragm is placed to the external space of the electronic device, the side cover318connected to the main body and including the main plate hole connecting with the main acoustic duct, and the sub-acoustic duct326penetrating the main body and configured to connect the external space of the electronic device to the main acoustic duct.

In various example embodiments, the main acoustic duct325may include the external opening3251open toward the main plate hole, the internal opening3252open toward the diaphragm, and the connection opening3253open toward the sub-acoustic duct and placed between the external opening and the internal opening.

In various example embodiments, the sub-acoustic duct326may guide a portion of energy entering inside the main acoustic duct through the external duct, to the outside of the electronic device.

In various example embodiments, in case pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct325between the external opening3251and the connection opening3253is first pressure, pressure of the inside of the main acoustic duct325between the connection opening3253and the internal opening3252may be second pressure, which is less than the first pressure.

In various example embodiments, the pressure of the space in which the diaphragm3222is placed may be equal to or less than the pressure of the inside the main acoustic duct325between the external opening and the connection opening.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device400may further include the door plate428which is rotatable as being rotatably coupled to the main body and configured to open and close the connection opening.

In various example embodiments, the sub-acoustic duct326may be provided in the direction from the main acoustic duct325toward the back cover311.

In various example embodiments, the sub-acoustic duct326may connect with the rear gap G1provided between the back cover311and the side cover318.

In various example embodiments, the sub-acoustic duct526may be provided in the direction from the main acoustic duct525toward the front cover502.

In various example embodiments, the sub-acoustic duct526may connect with the front gap G2provided between the front cover and the side cover.

In various example embodiments, the sub-acoustic duct626may include the sub duct body6261provided in parallel with the main acoustic duct, and the connecting part6262extending from the sub duct body toward the main acoustic duct and configured to connect the sub duct body to the main acoustic duct.

In various example embodiments, the side cover618may further include the sub plate hole618bconnecting with the sub duct body.

In various example embodiments, the plurality of sub duct bodies7261may connect with the main acoustic duct725via the connecting part7262.

In various example embodiments, the diameter D2(e.g., maximum diameter) of the sub-acoustic duct326may be less than the diameter D1(e.g., minimum diameter) of the main acoustic duct325.

In various example embodiments, the electronic device300may further include the mesh plate3232disposed on the main body320and placed between the diaphragm and the main acoustic duct.

The electronic device300including the plurality of acoustic ducts according to various example embodiments may include the main body320, the PCB321disposed on the main body, the microphone322including the microphone body3221connected to the PCB and the diaphragm3222connected to the microphone body, the main acoustic duct325penetrating the main body and configured to connect the space in which the diaphragm is placed to the external space of the electronic device, and the sub-acoustic duct326penetrating the main body and configured to connect the external space of the electronic device to the main acoustic duct.

In various example embodiments, the main acoustic duct325may include the external opening3251open toward the outside the electronic device, the internal opening3252open toward the diaphragm, and the connection opening3253open toward the sub-acoustic duct and placed between the external opening and the internal opening.

In various example embodiments, the sub-acoustic duct326may guide a portion of energy entering inside the main acoustic duct through the external duct to the outside.

In various example embodiments, the pressure of the space in which the diaphragm3222is placed may be equal to or less than the pressure of the inside the main acoustic duct325between the external opening and the connection opening.

According to various example embodiments, the electronic device300including the plurality of acoustic ducts may include the main body320, the PCB321disposed on the main body, the microphone322including the microphone body3221connected to the PCB, the diaphragm3222connected to the microphone body and the back plate3223connected to the microphone body and spaced apart from the diaphragm, the front cover302connected to the main body, the back cover311connected to the main body and provided at an opposite side to the front cover based on the main body, the main acoustic duct325penetrating the main body and configured to connect the space in which the diaphragm is placed to the external space of the electronic device, the side cover318connected to the main body and including the main plate hole connecting with the main acoustic duct, and the sub-acoustic duct326configured to emit a portion of energy entering inside the main acoustic duct from the outside before the energy is delivered to the diaphragm.