Patent ID: 12204380

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device in a network environment according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.1, the electronic device101in the network environment100may communicate with an electronic device102via a first network198(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or an electronic device104or a server108via a second network199(e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may communicate with the electronic device104via the server108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a processor120, memory130, an input 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 embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., the connecting terminal178) may be omitted from the electronic device101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device101. In some embodiments, some of the components (e.g., the sensor module176, the camera module180, or the antenna module197) may be implemented 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 device101coupled with the processor120, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor120may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module176or the communication module190) in volatile memory132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory132, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory134. According to an embodiment, the processor120may include a main processor121(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), 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 from, 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 processor121, or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor123may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor121.

The auxiliary processor123may control, for example, at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display module160, the sensor module176, or the communication module190) among the components of the electronic device101, instead of the main processor121while the main processor121is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor121while the main processor121is in an active (e.g., executing an application) state. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor123(e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module180or the communication module190) functionally related to the auxiliary processor123. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor123(e.g., the neural processing unit) may include a hardware structure specified for artificial intelligence model processing. An artificial intelligence model may be generated by machine learning. Such learning may be performed, e.g., by the electronic device101where the artificial intelligence is performed or via a separate server (e.g., the server108). Learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, e.g., supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may be 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), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), 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 program140may be stored in the memory130as software, 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 sound signals 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 for receiving incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as 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 display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the display module160may include a touch sensor adapted to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

The audio module170may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module170may obtain the sound via the input module150, or output the sound via the sound output module155or an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device102(e.g., a speaker or a headphone)) directly or wirelessly coupled with 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 then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to an 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 or wirelessly. According to an 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.

A connecting terminal178may include a connector via which the electronic device101may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102). According to an 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 electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. According to an embodiment, the haptic module179may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

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

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

The battery189may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device101. According to an 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 from the processor120(e.g., the application processor (AP)) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an 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 device via 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., LAN or 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 or 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 subscriber identification module196.

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

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

At least some of the above-described components may be coupled mutually and communicate 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 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 a same type as, or a different type, from the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic device101may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices102,104, or108. For example, if the electronic device101should 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 the 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 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 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 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 certain embodiments may be one of certain types of electronic devices. The electronic devices 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. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic devices are not limited to those described above.

It should be appreciated that certain embodiments of the disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include certain changes, equivalents, or replacements for a corresponding embodiment. With regard to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. 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, each of such phrases as “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 “at least one of A, B, or C”, may include any one of, or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together in a corresponding one of the phrases. As used herein, such terms as “1st” and “2nd”, or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another, and does not limit the components in other aspect (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 certain 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 embodiment, the module may be implemented in a form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

According to certain 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 certain embodiments, one or more of the above-described components or operations may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations 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, 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 certain 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.

FIG.2is a perspective view of an electronic device in a first state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.FIG.3is a perspective view of an electronic device in a second state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.2andFIG.3, an electronic device200may include a housing202and a display204. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may be, for example, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, or a portable terminal. The configuration of the electronic device200ofFIG.2may be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the electronic device101ofFIG.1.

According to certain embodiments, the housing202may form at least a part of the exterior of the electronic device200, or may support a component (e.g., a display204) of the electronic device200. For example, the housing202may be configured to accommodate at least one of a display204, an input device206, or atouch pad208.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device200may be opened or closed. For example, the housing202may include a first housing210and a second housing220configured to be rotatable with respect to the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the electronic device200may include at least one hinge module230that couples the first housing210and the second housing220.

According to certain embodiments, the first housing210may be configured to rotate within a designated angle range (e.g., 0 degree to 360 degrees) with respect to the second housing220by using the hinge module230. For example, the electronic device200may be configured to operate in a first state. As shown inFIG.2, for example, the first state may be a clamshell mode. In the first state, the angle, the first state may be otate within a designated angle range (e.g., 0 degree to 360 degrees) with respond housing220may be about 90 degrees to 130 degrees. In another example, the electronic device200may be configured to operate in a second state. For example, as shown inFIG.3the second state may be a tablet mode. In the second state, the angle vice200may be configured to operate degree to 360 degrees) with respond housing220may be about 90 degrees to 130 degrees. ng220by using the hinge module230. to the second housing220may be interpreted as the rotation of the second housing220with respect to the first housing210.

According to certain embodiments, the housing202may be formed of a metallic material or a non-metallic material having the rigidity of a selected size. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the electronic device200, which is formed of the metal material, may be configured to provide a ground plane, and may be electrically coupled to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board (not shown). For example, the housing202may be electrically coupled to the printed circuit board via a capacitive component.

According to certain embodiments, the display204may be a flexible display, at least a portion of which can be transformed into a flat surface and/or a curved-surface. For example, the display204may be a foldable or a rollable display. The configuration of the display204may be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the display module160ofFIG.1. According to an embodiment, the display204may be configured to be accommodated in the second housing220. For example, at least a part of the display204may be disposed in the second housing220. According to an embodiment, at least a part of the display204may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device200. According to an embodiment, the second housing220may be interpreted as a display part.

According to certain embodiments, the display204may be coupled to or may be disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity (pressure) of touch, and/or a digitizer configured to detect a stylus pen of a magnetic field type.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device200may include the input device206capable of detecting a user input (e.g., a pressure). According to an embodiment, the input device206may be configured to be accommodated in the first housing210. For example, the input device206may be disposed on the first housing210. According to an embodiment, in a state in which the electronic device200is closed, the input device206may have at least a part configured to face at least a part of the display204. The configuration of the input device206ofFIG.2may be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the input module150ofFIG.1. For example, the input device206may be a keyboard. According to an embodiment, the first housing210may be interpreted as a body part.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device200may include the touch pad208configured to detect or receive a user input. According to an embodiment, the touch pad208may include a capacitive touch sensor, a touch sensor based on resistive sensing, an optical touch sensor, and/or a surface acoustic wave touch sensor. For example, the touch pad208may be configured to detect current, pressure, light, and/or vibration caused by an input applied to the touch pad208by a user, and a processor (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) and/or the touch pad208may be configured to determine a user input, based on changes in the detected current, pressure, light, and/or vibration. According to an embodiment, the touch pad208may include a display. For example, the touch pad208may include a pressure-sensitive touch screen, a capacitive touch screen, and/or an infrared touch screen.

According to certain embodiments, the processor120and/or the touch pad208may be configured to determine an input position (e.g., an XY coordinates) by a user. According to an embodiment, the touch pad208may be configured to detect the pressure to the touch pad208. For example, the touch pad208may be configured to detect a force in the thickness direction thereof (e.g., the Z-axis direction) by using a switch member (not shown) and at least one force sensor (not shown). According to an embodiment, the touch pad208may be configured to detect an external object (e.g., a user's finger or a stylus) when the external object directly touches or closely approaches the surface of the touch pad208.

According to certain embodiments, the touch pad208may be configured to be accommodated in the first housing210. For example, the touch pad208may be coupled to the first housing210, and may have at least one part that is exposed to the outside of the first housing210.

According to an embodiment, the touch pad208may be configured to be adjacent to the input device206. According to an embodiment, in a state in which the electronic device200is closed, the touch pad208may have at least one part that is configured to face the display204. The configuration of the touch pad208may be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the input module150ofFIG.1.

FIG.4andFIG.5are views illustrating the internal structure of an electronic device in a first state according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.4and/orFIG.5, an electronic device200may include a first housing210, a second housing220, a hinge module300, a gear assembly400, and a foot structure500. The configuration of the first housing210, the second housing220, and the hinge module300ofFIG.4and/orFIG.5may be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the first housing210, the second housing220, and the hinge module230ofFIG.2and/orFIG.3.

According to certain embodiments, the first housing210may include at least one through-hole211. According to an embodiment, the air inside the electronic device200may be discharged to the outside of the electronic device200through the through-hole211. For example, air heated by a component (e.g., the processor120ofFIG.1) of the electronic device200may be delivered to the outside of the electronic device200. According to an embodiment, the through-hole211may extend through the first front surface210aand the first rear surface210bof the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the foot structure500may raise at least a part (e.g., the first housing210) of the electronic device200. According to an embodiment, when the distance between the first housing210and the ground is increased by the foot structure500, the amount of air outside the electronic device200, which is delivered to the through-hole211, may be increased. According to an embodiment, the foot structure500may be interpreted as a thermal foot structure.

According to certain embodiments, the hinge module300may be configured to connect the first housing210and the second housing220. For example, the hinge module300may include a first rotation gear321connected to the first housing210and a second rotation gear322connected to the second housing220. According to an embodiment, the second rotation gear322may be connected to the second housing220, and the first rotation gear321may be rotatably connected to the second rotation gear322. According to an embodiment, the hinge module300may include multiple idle gears323rotatably connected to the first rotation gear321and the second rotation gear322. According to an embodiment, the first rotation gear321may be configured to rotate around a first rotation axis Ax1. The second rotation gear322may be configured to rotate around a second rotation axis Ax2substantially parallel to the first rotation axis Ax1. According to an embodiment, the first rotation gear321may include a (1-1)st rotation gear321aconfigured to engage with the second rotation gear322and/or the idle gears323, and (1-2)nd rotation gear321bdisposed parallel to the (1-1)st rotation gear321a. According to an embodiment, the (1-2)nd rotation gear321bmay be configured to engage with at least a part (e.g., the pinion gear410ofFIG.6) of the gear assembly400.

According to certain embodiments, the hinge module300may include a hinge shaft330. According to an embodiment, the hinge shaft330may provide a force or pressure, which allows the first housing210to be maintained at a designated angle with respect to the second housing220, to a rotation gear310and/or a shaft (the shaft413ofFIG.7). For example, the hinge shaft330may be interpreted as a detent structure. According to an embodiment, the hinge shaft330may be disposed in the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the hinge shaft330may be disposed on substantially the same axis (e.g., the first rotation axis Ax1) as that of the first rotation gear321.

According to certain embodiments, the hinge module300may include a hinge cover340. According to an embodiment, the hinge cover340may be configured to surround at least a part of the rotation gear310. According to an embodiment, the hinge cover340may have at least a part formed in a closed curve shape. According to an embodiment, at least a part of the hinge cover340may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device200.

According to certain embodiments, the hinge module300may include multiple hinge modules300aand300b. For example, the hinge module300may include a first hinge module300aand a second hinge module300bthat is disposed in a line with the first hinge module300a.

According to certain embodiments, the gear assembly400may be configured to transmit a rotation force of the hinge module300to the foot structure500. According to an embodiment, when the second housing220rotates with respect to the first housing210, the rotation gear310of the hinge module300may rotate. The gear assembly400may be connected to the rotation gear310, and may be configured to move based on rotation of the rotation gear310. For example, the gear assembly400may include a pinion gear410rotatably connected to the second rotation gear321bof the hinge module300. According to an embodiment, based on a movement of the gear assembly400, a force (or pressure) may be transmitted to the foot structure500. For example, a part (e.g., the plate440ofFIG.6) of the gear assembly400may be configured to slide and move based on rotation of the pinion gear410. Pressure may be transmitted to the foot structure500by a slide movement of the gear assembly400. According to an embodiment, the gear assembly400may be disposed in the first housing210.

According to certain embodiments, the gear assembly400may include multiple gear assemblies400aand400b. For example, the gear assembly400may include a first gear assembly400aconnected to the first hinge module300aand a second gear assembly400bconnected to the second hinge module300b. According to an embodiment, the first gear assembly400aand the second gear assembly400bmay be arranged in a line.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may be configured to reduce or prevent a slip of the electronic device200. According to an embodiment, the foot structure500may have at least apart configured to protrude from the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the foot structure500may include a support area550configured to be in contact with the outside (e.g., the ground) of the electronic device200. The support area550may be configured to support the electronic device200. According to an embodiment, the support area550may have a friction coefficient higher than that of the housing202. For example, the support area550may include rubber or a polymer or the like with similar elastic and/or impact absorbing properties.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may include a guide member530configured to surround at least a part (e.g., the plate440) of the gear assembly400. According to an embodiment, the guide member530may be configured to guide a movement of the plate440.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may be connected to the first housing210. For example, the foot structure500may include at least one fastening member540. The fastening member540may be connected to the first housing210and the guide member530. According to an embodiment, the fastening member540may include a screw structure or a boss structure.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may include multiple foot structures500aand500b. For example, the foot structure500may include a first foot structure500aconnected to the first gear assembly400aand a second foot structure500bconnected to the second gear assembly400b. According to an embodiment, the first foot structure500aand the second foot structure500bmay be arranged in a line.

FIG.6is a schematic view of an electronic device according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.FIG.7is an exploded perspective view of a hinge module, a gear assembly, and a foot structure according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.6and/orFIG.7, an electronic device200may include a hinge module300, a gear assembly400, and a foot structure500. The configuration of the hinge module300, the gear assembly400, and the foot structure500ofFIG.6and/orFIG.7may be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the hinge module300, the gear assembly400, and the foot structure500ofFIG.4and/orFIG.5.

According to certain embodiments, the hinge module300may include a first rotation gear321, a second rotation gear322, multiple idle gears323, a hinge shaft330, and a hinge cover340. The configuration of the first rotation gear321, the second rotation gear322, the multiple idle gears323, the hinge shaft330and the hinge cover340ofFIG.6and/orFIG.7may be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the first rotation gear321, the second rotation gear322, the multiple idle gears323, the hinge shaft330, and the hinge cover340ofFIG.4and/orFIG.5.

According to certain embodiments, the rotation gear310(e.g., the (1-2)nd rotation gear321b) may include a first gear area311and a second gear area313. According to an embodiment, the first gear area311may include a first curved-surface311aand first gear teeth311bconfigured to extend or protrude from the first curved-surface311a. The second gear area313may include a second curved-surface313aconfigured to extend from the first curved-surface311a. For example, a portion of the rotation gear310, in which gear teeth (e.g., the first gear teeth311b) are not positioned, may be interpreted as the second gear area313. According to an embodiment, the first curved-surface311aand the second curved-surface313amay form a substantially circular curved-surface. According to an embodiment, the first gear teeth311band the second curved-surface313amay be configured to be visually exposed to the outside of the rotation gear310.

According to certain embodiments, the rotation gear310(e.g., the second rotation gear321b) may be formed as one gear area (not shown). For example, the first gear area311and the second gear area313of the rotation gear310may be integrally formed. According to certain embodiments, a pinion gear410may include a first pinion gear411. According to an embodiment, the first pinion gear411may be configured to engage with the rotation gear310(e.g., the second gear321b). For example, the first pinion gear411may be configured to rotate based on rotation of the rotation gear310. According to an embodiment, when the first pinion gear411faces or contacts the first gear area311, the first pinion gear411may be configured to receive torque transmitted from the rotation gear310. For example, when the first pinion gear411faces or contacts the first gear area311, based on a movement of a housing (e.g., the housing202ofFIG.1), the first pinion gear411may be configured to rotate. For example, when the rotation gear310rotates, the first pinion gear411may be configured to rotate in the reverse direction of the rotation direction of the rotation gear310. According to an embodiment, when the first pinion gear411faces or contacts the second gear area313, the first pinion gear411may be configured such that torque by rotation gear310is not transmitted thereto. For example, when the first pinion gear411faces or contacts the second gear area313, the first pinion gear411may be configured not to rotate. For example, when the rotation gear310rotates, the first pinion gear411may be configured not to rotate.

According to certain embodiments, the pinion gear410may include a second pinion gear412. According to an embodiment, the second pinion gear412may be configured to rotate around substantially the same axis as that of the first pinion gear411. For example, the second pinion gear412may be connected to the first pinion gear411by using a shaft413. According to an embodiment, when the first pinion gear411rotates, the second pinion gear412may be configured to rotate in the same direction as the first pinion gear411. According to an embodiment, the second pinion gear412may be disposed parallel to the first pinion gear411. According to an embodiment, the second pinion gear412may be configured to engage with a rack gear420.

According to certain embodiments, the gear assembly400may include the rack gear420. According to an embodiment, the rack gear420may be configured to engage with the pinion gear410(e.g., the second pinion gear412). For example, the rack gear420may be configured to slide based on rotation of the pinion gear410, e.g., the linear movement of the rack gear420may correspond to the rotation of the pinion gear410to which it is operatively engaged. For example, the rack gear420may be configured to slide and move in a first direction (e.g., the x-axis direction). According to an embodiment, when the pinion gear410(e.g., the first pinion gear411) contacts the first gear area311of the rotation gear310, the rack gear420may be configured to move based on rotation of the rotation gear310. According to an embodiment, when the pinion gear410(e.g., the first pinion gear411) faces the second gear area313of the rotation gear310, the rack gear420may be configured not to move even though the rotation gear310rotates. According to an embodiment (not shown), the rack gear420may be formed in a track shape. For example, the rack gear420may be formed in a caterpillar track shape.

According to certain embodiments, the gear assembly400may include a plate440. According to an embodiment, the plate440may include a first surface440aand a second surface440bopposite to the first surface440a. According to an embodiment, the rack gear420may be positioned above (e.g., the +Z-direction) the plate440. For example, the rack gear420may be positioned on the first surface440aof the plate440. As another example, the rack gear420may be integrally formed with the plate440, and may be a portion of the plate440, which protrudes from the first surface440aof the plate440in a second direction (e.g., the +Z-direction).

According to certain embodiments, the gear assembly400may include a cam structure430. According to an embodiment, the cam structure430may be connected to the rack gear420and/or the plate440. For example, the cam structure430may be configured to slide and move based on rotation of the pinion gear410in the first direction (the x-axis direction) together with the rack gear420and/or plate440. According to an embodiment, the cam structure430may be positioned below (e.g., the −Z-direction) the plate440. For example, the cam structure430may be disposed on the second surface440bof the plate440. As another example, the cam structure430may be a portion of the plate440, which protrudes from the second surface440bof the plate440in a third direction (the −Z-direction).

According to certain embodiments, the cam structure430may be configured to transmit a pressure or force to the foot structure500. For example, the cam structure430may be configured to face or touch at least a part (e.g., the protruding area511) of the foot structure500. According to an embodiment, when the rack gear420and/or the cam structure430slide and move in the first direction, the cam structure430may be configured to transmit a force to the protruding area511in a second direction (the +Z-direction) or the third direction (the −Z-direction). According to an embodiment, a lubricating material (e.g., a lubricating oil and/or a lubricating agent) may be placed between the cam structure430and the protruding area511. The lubricating material may have a friction coefficient lower than the friction coefficient of the cam structure430and/or the protruding area511such that the lubricating material reduces the friction between the parts.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may be configured to adjust a height of the electronic device200. According to an embodiment, based on the force or pressure transmitted from the cam structure430, the foot structure500may be configured to move in the second direction (the +Z-direction) or the third direction (the −Z-direction) with respect to the first housing210. According to an embodiment, as the distance between the first rear surface210bof the first housing210and a space (e.g., the ground) in which the electronic device200is seated, the heat dissipation effect of the electronic device200may be increased.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may include an elastic member520, a guide member530, and a fastening member540. The configuration of the elastic member520, the guide member530, and the fastening member540ofFIG.6and/orFIG.7may be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the elastic member520, the guide member530, and the fastening member540ofFIG.4and/orFIG.5.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may include a foot structure holder510. According to an embodiment, the foot structure holder510may include a protruding area511configured to face at least a part of the cam structure430. According to an embodiment, the protruding area511may be configured to receive the force or pressure transmitted from the cam structure430. For example, based on a sliding movement of the cam structure430, the protruding area511may be configured to receive a force in the third direction (the −Z-direction). According to an embodiment, the protruding area511may include a third inclined surface511a, a fourth inclined surface511b, and a second flat surface511cpositioned between the third inclined surface511aand the fourth inclined surface511b.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure holder510may include a wing part512configured to face the elastic member520. According to an embodiment, the wing part512may be configured to extend in the first direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) from the protruding area511. According to an embodiment, the wing part512may be formed integrally with the protruding area511. According to an embodiment, the wing part512may be configured to receive an elastic force in the second direction (the +Z-direction) from the elastic member520.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure holder510may include an accommodation area513. According to an embodiment, the accommodation area513may be configured to accommodate at least a part of the support area550. According to an embodiment, the accommodation area513may be interpreted as an empty space or a groove formed below (e.g., the −Z-direction) of the foot structure holder510.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may include the elastic member520. According to an embodiment, the elastic member520may be disposed between the first housing210and the wing part512. For example, the elastic member520may be connected to the first housing210and the wing part512. According to an embodiment, the elastic member520may be compressed by the force or pressure transmitted from the cam structure430of the gear assembly400. The elastic member520may be formed of a material having elastic properties (e.g., a rubber or rubber-like material). For example, when the protruding area511of the foot structure500receives a force or pressure by the cam structure430, the elastic member520may be compressed, and the foot structure holder510and/or the support area550may be moved in the third direction (the −Z-direction). According to an embodiment, when the cam structure430of the gear assembly400is spaced apart from the protruding area511of the foot structure500, the elastic member520may be configured to provide an elastic force to the foot structure holder510in the second direction (the +Z-direction). The foot structure holder510and/or the support area550may be configured to move in the second direction (the +Z-direction). According to an embodiment, due to the sliding movement of the cam structure430, when the force transmitted in the third direction −Z with respect to the foot structure holder510is greater than the elastic force transmitted from the elastic member520to the foot structure holder510, the cam structure430may be configured to move with respect to the foot structure holder510. According to an embodiment, to reduce the user's force required for rotation of the electronic device200, the elastic member520may be designed to have an elastic force smaller than a designated value.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may include a guide member530. According to an embodiment, the guide member530may include an accommodation groove531. According to an embodiment, the accommodation groove531may be configured to accommodate at least a part (e.g., the rack gear420and/or the plate440) of the gear assembly400. According to an embodiment, the accommodation groove531may be configured to guide a movement of the plate440in the first direction (the x-axis direction). For example, the accommodation groove531may be a groove formed on the inner surface of the guide member530along the first direction (the x-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the guide member530may be connected or fixed or otherwise coupled to the first housing210by using at least one fastening member540.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may include the support area550. According to an embodiment, the support area550may be fastened to the foot structure holder510. For example, the support area550may include a hook structure551. The hook structure551may be fastened to the inner surface of the accommodation area513. According to an embodiment, the support area550may be configured to be interference fit to the foot structure holder510. According to an embodiment, the support area550may include an elastic body (e.g., rubber).

FIG.8AtoFIG.8Eare views illustrating a foot structure configured to move based on an angle between a first housing and a second housing according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.FIG.9is a graph showing a relationship between an angle of an electronic device and a height of a foot structure according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.FIG.10is a view showing an operation, based on an angle of an electronic device, of a foot structure and a gear assembly according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.FIG.11AtoFIG.11Eare schematic views of a hinge module, a gear assembly, and a foot structure of an electronic device, which move based on an angle of the electronic device according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.8AtoFIG.11E, an electronic device200may include a first housing210, a second housing220, a hinge module300, a gear assembly400, and/or a foot structure500. The configuration of the first housing210, the second housing220, and the foot structure500ofFIG.8AtoFIG.8Emay be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the first housing210, the second housing220, and the foot structure500ofFIG.5. The configuration of the hinge module300, the gear assembly400, and/or the foot structure500ofFIG.10andFIG.11AtoFIG.11Emay be entirely or partially the same as the configuration of the hinge module300, the gear assembly400, and/or the foot structure500ofFIG.6.

According to certain embodiments, the first housing210may be configured to rotate with respect to the second housing220. For example, a first angle x1between the first housing210and the second housing220may be changed to about 0 degree to about 360 degrees. According to an embodiment, the first angle x1may be interpreted as an angle between a first front surface210aof the first housing210and a second front surface220aof the second housing220.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may be configured to move based on rotation of the second housing220with respect to the first housing210. For example, a first distance d, in which the rack gear420moves, may be changed based on a rotation angle of the hinge module300and/or the first angle X1between the first housing210and the second housing.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure500may be configured to move based on rotation of the second housing220with respect to the first housing210. For example, a second distance H, in which the foot structure500moves, may be changed based on a rotation angle of the hinge module300and/or the first angle X1between the first housing210and the second housing. For example, the rack gear420may be configured to move by the first distance d, based on the first angle X1, and the foot structure500, which receives a force or pressure by the rack gear420, may be configured to move by the second distance H.

According to certain embodiments, the rack gear420and/or the foot structure500may be configured to move differently for each section. For example, based on rotation of the second housing220with respect to the first housing210, the first angle X1may be substantially linearly changed, but the rack gear420engaged with the teeth of the pinion gear410may be non-linearly changed.

According to certain embodiments, in a first section s1, the pinion gear410may be configured to engage with the first gear area311of the rotation gear310. For example, in the first section s1, the pinion gear410may be configured to rotate in a direction reverse to the direction in which the rotation gear310rotates. The rack gear420may be configured to move by the pinion gear410, and the foot structure500may be configured to receive a pressure transmitted from the cam structure430connected to the rack gear420and to move below the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the first section s1may include a (1-1)st section s1-1in which the cam structure430and a protruding area511are spaced apart from each other, and a (1-2)nd section s1-2in which the cam structure430and the protruding area511are in contact with each other. According to an embodiment (e.g.,FIG.8AandFIG.11A), in the (1-1) st section s1-1, a fourth inclined surface511bof the protruding area511may be configured to be spaced apart from a first inclined surface430aof the cam structure430so as to receive no pressure. According to an embodiment (e.g.,FIG.8bandFIG.11B), in the (1-2)nd section s1-2, the fourth inclined surface511bof the protruding area511may be configured to touch the first inclined surface430aof the cam structure430, and the protruding area511may be configured to receive pressure provided from the cam structure430. According to an embodiment, the (1-1)st section s1-1may be a section in which the first angle X1is 0 degree to a first hinge angle a1, and the (1-2)nd section s1-2may be interpreted as a section in which the first angle X1is the first hinge angle alto a second hinge angle a2. The second hinge angle a2may be greater than the first hinge angle a1. According to an embodiment, the first hinge angle a1may be 17 degrees, and the second hinge angle a2may be 86 degrees.

According to certain embodiments, in the second section s2, the pinion gear410may be configured not to engage with the rotation gear310. For example, the pinion gear410may be configured to face the second gear area313of the rotation gear310. According to an embodiment, in the second section s2, the first distance d and the second distance H may be maintained to have a substantially the same size. For example, in the second section s2, the second distance H may be about 2 mm. According to an embodiment (e.g.,FIG.8CandFIG.11C), in the second section s2, a second flat surface511cof the protruding area511may be configured to face a first flat surface430cof the cam structure430. According to an embodiment, the second section s2may be interpreted as a section in which the first angle X1is the second hinge angle a2to a third hinge angle a3. The third hinge angle a3may be greater than the second hinge angle a2. According to an embodiment, the third hinge angle a3may be about 171 degrees.

According to certain embodiments, in a third section s3, the pinion gear410may be configured to engage with the first gear area311of the rotation gear310. For example, in the third section s3, the pinion gear410may be configured to rotate in a direction reverse to the direction in which the rotation gear310rotates. The rack gear420may be configured to move by the pinion gear410, and the foot structure500may be configured to receive pressure transmitted from the cam structure430connected to the rack gear420and thus to move toward the first housing210. According to an embodiment, the third section s3may include a (3-1)st section s3-1in which the cam structure430and a protruding area511are in contact with each other, and a (3-2)nd section s3-2in which the cam structure430and the protruding area511are spaced apart from each other. According to an embodiment (e.g.,FIG.8DandFIG.11D), in the (3-1)st section s3-1, the third inclined surface511aof the protruding area511may be configured to touch a second inclined surface430bof the cam structure430, and the protruding area511may be configured to receive pressure provided from the cam structure430. According to an embodiment (e.g.,FIG.8EandFIG.11E), in the (3-2)nd section s3-2, the third inclined surface511aof the protruding area511may be configured to be spaced apart from the second inclined surface430bof the cam structure430such that it receives no pressure. According to an embodiment, the (3-1)st section s3-1may be a section in which the first angle X1is the third hinge angle a3to a fourth hinge angle a4, and the (3-2)nd section s3-2may be interpreted as a section in which the first angle X1is the fourth hinge angle a4to a firth hinge angle a5. The fifth hinge angle a5may be greater than the fourth hinge angle a4, and the fourth hinge angle a4may be greater than the third hinge angle a3. According to an embodiment, the fourth hinge angle a4may be about 223 degrees, and the fifth hinge angle a5may be about 360 degrees.

According to certain embodiments of the disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device200ofFIG.2) may include a housing (e.g., the housing202ofFIG.2) including a first housing (e.g., the first housing210ofFIG.2) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing220ofFIG.2) configured to rotate with respect to the first housing, a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module230ofFIG.2) which is connected to the first housing and the second housing and includes a rotation gear (e.g., the rotation gear310ofFIG.6), a gear assembly (e.g., the gear assembly400ofFIG.6) including a pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear410ofFIG.6) rotatably connected to the rotation gear, a rack gear (e.g., the rack gear420ofFIG.6) configured to slide in a first direction (e.g., the first direction (the x-axis direction) ofFIG.6), based on rotation of the pinion gear, and a cam structure (e.g., the cam structure430ofFIG.6) connected to the rack gear, and a foot structure (e.g., the foot structure500ofFIG.6) connected to the first housing and configured to move in a second direction (e.g., the second direction (the +Z-direction) ofFIG.6) or a third direction (e.g., the third direction (the −Z-direction) ofFIG.6) perpendicular to the first direction, based on a movement of the cam structure.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure may include a foot structure holder (e.g., the foot structure holder510ofFIG.6) including a protruding area (e.g., the protruding area511ofFIG.6) configured to face at least a part of the gear assembly and be in contact with the cam structure.

According to certain embodiments, the rotation gear may include a first gear area (e.g., the first gear area311ofFIG.6) including a first curved-surface (e.g., the first curved-surface311aofFIG.6) and a first gear tooth (e.g., the first gear teeth311bofFIG.6) configured to protrude from the first curved-surface, and a second gear area (e.g., the second gear area313ofFIG.6) including a second curved-surface (e.g., the second curved-surface313aofFIG.6) configured to extend from the first curved-surface and be exposed to the outside of the rotation gear.

According to certain embodiments, the first housing may be configured to rotate with respect to the second housing when the pinion gear corresponds to the first gear area, and the foot structure may be configured to move when the pinion gear corresponds to the first gear area.

According to certain embodiments, the first housing may include a first front surface (e.g., the first front surface210aofFIG.2) and a first rear surface (e.g., the first rear surface210bofFIG.2) opposite to the first front surface, the second housing may include a second front surface (e.g., the second front surface220aofFIG.2) and a second rear surface (e.g., the second rear surface220bofFIG.5) opposite to the second front surface, and based on rotation of the second housing with respect to the first housing, the first front surface may be configured to face the second front surface and the first rear surface may be configured to face the second rear surface.

According to certain embodiments, the hinge module may include a first rotation gear (e.g., the first rotation gear321ofFIG.7) connected to the first housing, a second rotation gear (e.g., the second rotation gear322ofFIG.7) connected to the second housing, and multiple idle gears (e.g., the idle gears323ofFIG.7) connected to the first rotation gear and the second rotation gear.

According to certain embodiments, the pinion gear may include a first pinion gear (e.g., the first pinion gear411ofFIG.7) configured to engage with the first rotation gear, and a second pinion gear (e.g., the second pinion gear412ofFIG.7) configured to engage with the first pinion gear and the rack gear.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may further include an input device (e.g., the input device206ofFIG.2) accommodated in the first housing, and a touch pad (e.g., the touch pad208of theFIG.2) accommodated in the first housing.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may further include a display (e.g., the display204ofFIG.2) accommodated in the second housing.

According to certain embodiments, the gear assembly may include a plate (e.g., the plate440ofFIG.6) connected to the rack gear, and the foot structure may include a guide member (e.g., the guide member530ofFIG.7) including an accommodation groove (e.g., the accommodation groove531ofFIG.7) configured to guide a movement of the plate.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure may include at least one fastening member (e.g., the fastening member540ofFIG.7) connected to the guide member and the first housing.

According to certain embodiments, the plate may include a first surface (e.g., the first surface440aofFIG.6) and a second surface (e.g., the second surface400bofFIG.6) opposite to the first surface, the rack gear may be disposed on the first surface, and the cam structure may be disposed on the second surface.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure may include a wing part (e.g., the wing part512ofFIG.6) which is configured to extend from a protruding area (e.g., the protruding area511ofFIG.6) configured to be in contact with the cam structure, and at least one elastic member (e.g., the elastic member520ofFIG.6) disposed between the wing part and the first housing.

According to certain embodiments, the foot structure may include a support area (e.g., the support area550ofFIG.6) which is configured to be exposed to the outside of the electronic device and includes an elastic material, e.g., a rubber or rubber-like material.

According to certain embodiments, the first housing may include at least one through-hole (e.g., the through-hole211ofFIG.5) configured to introduce air into the electronic device.

According to certain embodiments of the disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device200ofFIG.2) may include a housing (e.g., the housing202of theFIG.2) including a first housing (e.g., the first housing210of theFIG.2) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing220of theFIG.2) configured to rotate with respect to the first housing, a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module300ofFIG.4) which is connected to the first housing and the second housing and includes a rotation gear (e.g., the rotation gear310ofFIG.6), a gear assembly (e.g., the gear assembly400ofFIG.6) including a pinion gear (e.g., the pinion gear410ofFIG.6) rotatably connected to the rotation gear, a rack gear (e.g., the rack gear420ofFIG.6) configured to slide based on rotation of the pinion gear, and a cam structure (e.g., the cam structure430ofFIG.6) connected to the rack gear, and a foot structure connected to the first housing, the foot structure (e.g., the foot structure500ofFIG.6) including a foot structure holder (e.g., the foot structure holder510ofFIG.6) including a protruding area (e.g., the protruding area511ofFIG.6) configured to receive pressure provided from the cam structure, and a support area (e.g., the support area550ofFIG.6) coupled to the foot structure holder and configured to support the electronic device.

According to certain embodiments, the rotation gear may include a first gear area (e.g., the first gear area311ofFIG.6) including a first curved-surface (e.g., the first curved-surface311aofFIG.6) and a first gear tooth (e.g., the first gear teeth311bofFIG.6) configured to protrude from the first curved-surface, and a second gear area (e.g., the second gear area313ofFIG.6) including a second curved-surface (e.g., the second curved-surface313aofFIG.6) which is configured to extend from the first curved-surface and be exposed to the outside of the rotation gear.

According to certain embodiments, the hinge module may include a first rotation gear (e.g., the first rotation gear321ofFIG.7) connected to the first housing, a second rotation gear (e.g., the second rotation gear322ofFIG.7) connected to the second housing, and multiple idle gears (e.g., the idle gear323ofFIG.7) connected to the first rotation gear and the second rotation gear, and the pinion gear may include a first pinion gear (e.g., the first pinion gear411ofFIG.7) configured to engage with the first rotation gear, and a second pinion gear (e.g., the second pinion gear412ofFIG.7) configured to engage with the first pinion gear and the rack gear.

According to certain embodiments, the gear assembly may include a plate (e.g., the plate440ofFIG.6) connected to the rack gear, and the foot structure may include a guide member (e.g., the guide member530ofFIG.7) including an accommodation groove (e.g., the accommodation groove531ofFIG.7) configured to guide a movement of the plate.

According to certain embodiments, the electronic device may further include an input device (e.g., the input device206ofFIG.2) accommodated in the first housing, a touch pad (e.g., the touch pad208of theFIG.2) accommodated in the first housing, and a display (e.g., the display204ofFIG.2) accommodated in the second housing.

The electronic device including the foot structure of the disclosure described above may not be limited by the above-described embodiments and drawings, and it will be obvious to a person skilled in the technical field, to which the disclosure belongs, that certain substitutions, modifications, and changes are possible within the technical scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not to be limited by the above embodiments but by the claims and the equivalents thereof.