Patent ID: 12190763

In connection with the description of drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar elements.

MODE FOR INVENTION

Hereinafter, an electronic device according to various embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The term “user” used in various embodiments may indicate the person using an electronic device or the device (e.g., an artificial intelligence electronic device) using an electronic device.

FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device101in a network environment100according to various embodiments. 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 at least one of 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 model 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 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., 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 1eMBB, 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 module197may 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 various 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.

FIG.2is a diagram illustrating the structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment,FIGS.3A and3Bare diagrams illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment, andFIG.3Cis a diagram illustrating a closed state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.2,3A,3B, and3C, an electronic device101(e.g., the electronic device101inFIG.1) according to an embodiment may include a housing including a first housing structure210and a second housing structure220, at least one processor120, a memory130, and a display module160. In addition, the electronic device may further include other elements. The electronic device101may be configured in a form (e.g., a foldable, slidable, or flexible form) in which the shape of the housing is deformable.

According to an embodiment, the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220may be disposed on both sides of a folding axis B (e.g., a folding axis in the transverse direction), and may be coupled to rotate about the folding axis B so as to be folded, facing each other, through a hinge structure260. The disclosure is not limited thereto, and according to another embodiment, the housing of the electronic device101may further include another housing structure in addition to the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220and may be configured to be folded in various ways through a plurality of folding axes. According to another embodiment, the electronic device101may be configured such that a partial area of the housing is to be folded in a direction (e.g., the y-axis or longitudinal direction perpendicular to B) different from the folding axis B inFIG.2.

According to an embodiment, a camera214included in a camera module (e.g., the camera module180inFIG.1), various sensors215, and a speaker (e.g., a receiver)216may be disposed in the first housing structure210. In another embodiment, the camera214, the various sensors215, and the speaker216may be further disposed or replaced in at least a partial area of the second housing structure220. According to another embodiment, at least some of the camera214, the various sensors215, and the speaker216may be disposed in at least a partial area of the first housing210, and the remaining thereof may be disposed in at least a partial area of the second housing structure220. The camera214may be exposed through an opening provided at one corner of the front surface (e.g., a first surface211) of the first housing structure210. The sensors215may include at least one of a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, an iris recognition sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and an indicator. For example, the sensors215may be exposed to the front surface of the electronic device101through an opening provided at one corner of the first housing structure210or may be disposed at the bottom of at least a partial area of the display161. For example, the electronic device101may further include a camera (e.g., a rear camera) exposed through an opening provided at one corner of a second surface212of the first housing structure210.

According to an embodiment, although not illustrated, the electronic device101may also include an ear jack hole, an external speaker module, a SIM card tray, an interface connector port, or at least one key button, which is disposed in the first housing structure210and/or the second housing structure220.

According to an embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220may vary depending on whether the electronic device101is in an unfolded state (or flat state) (e.g., the unfolded state inFIGS.3A and3B), a folded state (or closed state) (e.g., the folded state inFIG.3C), or an intermediate state (or half-folded state). The term “state” may be replaced with “mode”. The intermediate state may indicate a half-folded state in which the first surface211of the first housing structure210and the first surface221of the second housing structure220form a specified reference angle (e.g., 90 degrees or a range of 80 to 100 degrees) therebetween. The unfolded state may indicate the state in which the first surface211of the first housing structure210and the first surface221of the second housing structure220are being opened such that an angle therebetween exceeds a specified reference angle (e.g., greater than 90 degrees to 180 degrees or greater than 101 degrees to 180 degrees) or are fully opened to be flat (e.g., an angle of 180 degrees). The folded state may indicate the state in which the first surface211of the first housing structure210and the first surface221of the second housing structure220are being closed such that an angle therebetween is less than a specified reference angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees to 0 degrees or less than 80 degrees to 0 degrees) or are fully closed to be folded (e.g., 0 degrees).

According to an embodiment, as shown inFIGS.3A to3C, the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220may be configured such that a partial area (hereinafter, referred to as a first area (y2-y3)161-1) of a flexible display161included in the display module160is disposed in the first surfaces211and221(e.g., the front surface) of the housing. As shown inFIGS.3A and3B, the first housing structure210may be configured such that other areas (hereinafter, referred to as a second area (y1-y2)161-2and a third area (0-y1)161-3) of the display161are disposed to surround the second surface212(e.g., the rear surface) of the housing, which is directed in the opposite direction of the first surface211, and a third surface213(e.g., the side surface) of the housing in the space between the first surface211and the second surface212. According to another embodiment, the second area161-2and the third area161-3of the display161may be disposed to surround a third surface223and a second surface222of the second housing structure220. According to another embodiment, the electronic device101may be configured such that another area (hereinafter, referred to as a fourth area) of the display161is disposed to extend to the first area161-1to surrounding the area corresponding to or similar to the second area161-2and the third surface223of the second housing structure220.

According to an embodiment, the processor120may perform an operation of displaying an execution screen of an application depending on the state (e.g., the unfolded state, folded state, or intermediate state) of the electronic device101. In some embodiments, the state of the electronic device is determined according to an angle between the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220. The operation of displaying an execution screen of an application depending on the state of the electronic device101will be described later.

According to an embodiment, the processor120may be a hardware element (function) including at least one of various elements included in the electronic device101, or a software element (program). The processor120may execute one or more application programs.

According to an embodiment, the processor210may include, for example, hardware, software, or firmware, or a combination thereof. The processor210may be configured to exclude at least some of the elements or further include other elements for performing an image processing operation, in addition to the elements.

According to an embodiment, the memory130may store a variety of data used by at least one element (e.g., the processor210) of the electronic device101and commands to perform operations executed by the processor210. For example, the memory130may store applications (functions or programs) that cause execution screens to be displayed on the corresponding areas of the display161depending on the unfolded (open), folded (closed), or intermediate (partially-open/partially-closed) state of the electronic device101. The memory130may store programs (e.g., the programs140inFIG.1) used for functional operation and a variety of data produced during the execution of the programs140. The memory130may largely include a program area and a data area (not shown). The program area140may store related program information for driving the electronic device201, such as an operating system (OS) (e.g., the operating system142inFIG.1), and/or other programs for booting the electronic device201. The data area (not shown) may store transmitted and/or received data and produced data according to various embodiments. In addition, the memory130may be configured to include at least one storage medium among a flash memory, a hard disk, a multimedia card micro-type memory (e.g., a secure digital (SD) or extreme digital (XD) memory), RAM, and ROM. According to an embodiment, the memory130may store an image corresponding to an execution screen of at least one application displayed on the corresponding area of the display161depending on the state of the electronic device.

According to an embodiment, the display module160may include a flexible display161. When displaying execution screens of applications in configured areas of the display161, the display module160may determine a screen ratio of the execution screen of the application to be displayed according to the size, the resolution, and the ratio of the horizontal length to the vertical length of each of the configured areas. Here, the screen ratio of the execution screen of the application to be displayed on the corresponding area may be determined based on screen ratio information configured by the display module160under the control of at least one processor120or configured by at least one processor120.

According to an embodiment, as shown inFIGS.3A and3B, the display161may be configured in a first shape in the unfolded state of the electronic device101. As shown inFIG.3C, the display161may be configured in a second shape in the folded state of the electronic device101. For example, the first shape may include a first screen ratio (e.g., 16:9), and the second shape may include a second screen ratio (e.g., 4:3). The display161may include a first area161-1that is a main area, a second area161-2that is a sub area, and a third area161-3. The first area161-1of the display161may be disposed in the first shape with the first screen ratio. The first area161-1may be disposed on the first surface211of the first housing structure210and the first surface221of the second housing structure220. As shown inFIG.3B, the second area161-2of the display161may be disposed to extend to a point y2 and surround, envelop, or encompass the third surface213of the first housing structure210. The third area161-3of the display161may be disposed to extend to a point y1 and surround, envelop, or encompass the second surface212of the first housing structure210. As another example, the second area161-2of the display161may extend from a point y3 of the first area161-2to be disposed on the third surface223of the second housing structure220. The third area161-3may extend to the second area161-2to be disposed on the second surface222of the second housing structure220. As another example, the display161may further include a fourth area (not shown) disposed on the second surface212of the first housing structure210and the third surface223of the second housing structure220so as to be combined with the second area161-2in the folded state of the electronic device101, thereby displaying an execution screen of an application.

According to another embodiment, a portion of the display161(e.g., the second area161-2and the third area161-3of the display161) may be configured in a rollable form capable of being rolled into the electronic device or in a sliding form capable of being pushed into the electronic device. For example, a portion of the display161(e.g., the second area161-2and the third area161-3of the display161) may be configured to be rolled or pushed into the electronic device101through an opening formed at one side of the third surface213of the first housing structure210or the third surface223of the second housing structure220and to be extended to the first area161-1by expanding the area inserted into the electronic device. The electronic device101may be configured such that the area inserted thereinto is unfolded when using the electronic device so as to surround, or envelop, the second surface212of the first housing structure210or the second surface222of the second housing structure220and the third surface213of the first housing structure210or the third surface223of the second housing structure220.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a motion sensor and a magnetic body (e.g., magnet) included in a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module176inFIG.1). The motion sensor and the magnetic body (e.g., the magnet) may be disposed in at least a portion of the first housing structure210. The motion sensor may be configured as a combination of at least two of an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor (e.g., a gyro sensor), or a geomagnetic sensor. For example, the electronic device101may detect the pose and gesture of the first housing structure210through the motion sensor. For example, the pose of the first housing structure210may be detected based on the acceleration sensor of the motion sensor, and the movement of the first housing structure210may be detected based on the angular velocity sensor of the motion sensor. According to an embodiment, the magnetic body may be disposed in at least a portion of the first housing structure210adjacent to the hinge structure260.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a motion sensor and a magnetic sensor module, which are disposed in at least a portion of the second housing structure220and included in a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module176inFIG.1). According to an embodiment, the motion sensor disposed in at least a portion of the second housing structure220may be configured as a combination of at least two of an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor (e.g., a gyro sensor), or a geomagnetic sensor. For example, the electronic device101may detect the pose of the second housing structure220through the acceleration sensor of the motion sensor and detect the movement of the second housing structure220through the angular velocity sensor. The magnetic sensor module may be disposed in at least a portion of the second housing structure220adjacent to the hinge structure260. For example, as shown inFIG.3C, the magnetic body of the first housing structure210and the magnetic sensor module of the second housing structure220may be disposed to face, at least in part, each other in the folded state of the electronic device101.

FIG.4Ais a diagram illustrating an example of displaying an execution screen depending on the state of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.2and4A, as shown in (a) ofFIG.4A, the processor120of the electronic device101according to an embodiment may control the display module160to display an execution screen410(hereinafter, referred to as a first execution screen) of an application (hereinafter, referred to as a first application) at a first screen ratio on the first area (y2-y3)161-1of the display161in the unfolded state of the electronic device101. In some embodiments, the first screen ratio may be configured to have a size (or the area) corresponding to or similar to the first area (y2-y3)161-1of the display161.

According to an embodiment, as shown in (b) ofFIG.4A, based on switching to the folded state, the processor120may change the first screen ratio of the first execution screen410(e.g., App) displayed on the first area161-1into a second screen ratio to obtain a first execution screen420(e.g., App′) at the second screen ratio. For example, when the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220are detected to be fully folded to face each other using at least one sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor), the processor120may change the first execution screen410at the first screen ratio into the first execution screen420at the second screen ratio. As another example, when the angle between the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220with respect to the folding axis B is detected to be less than a specified reference angle using at least one sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor), the processor120may change the first execution screen410at the first screen ratio into the first execution screen420at the second screen ratio.

According to an embodiment, as shown in (c) ofFIG.4A, when the angle between the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220is detected to be less than a specified reference angle using at least one sensor, the processor120may identify that the display161switched to the folded state and capture the changed first execution screen420, thereby producing a first image430(e.g., the image of App′) having a size corresponding to the second screen ratio. The second screen ratio may be configured as a size (or the area) corresponding or similar to the third area (0-y1)161-3of the display161. For example, the second screen ratio may be smaller than the first screen ratio.

According to an embodiment, as shown in (c) ofFIG.4A, the processor120may control the display module160to display the first image430obtained in the folded state on a portion at the first area161-1of the display161. The first area161-1of the display161may not be exposed in the folded state of the electronic device, and the first image430may be displayed in a portion in the active state thereof, and if a visual effect in which the first image430moves is displayed and if the movement of the first image430is completed, the first area may switch to an inactive state. For example, in (c) ofFIG.4A, the second area161-2and the third area161-3of the display161may be in an inactive state. As another example, the second area161-2and the third area161-3of the display161may be activated when the first image430is displayed in a portion of the first area161-1.

According to an embodiment, as shown in (d) and (e) ofFIG.4A, the processor120may control the display module160to display a visual effect in which the first image430moves from a portion of the first area161-1of the display161to the third area161-3(y1-0) via the second area161-2(y2-y1) of the display161in the folded state. For example, as shown in (d) ofFIG.4A, the second area161-2and the third area161-3of the display161may switch to an active state as the first image430starts to move. The processor120may display the first image430by applying the visual effect in which the produced first image430moves, instead of moving and adjusting content of the first execution screen420to the second screen ratio. This addresses a technical challenge. Because, if elements of the content of the application is moved, the screen of the application, which is displayed in every frame, has to be refreshed, thereby increasing resource usage of the display. Accordingly, when switching from the unfolded state to the folded state, the processor120may display the first image430obtained by capturing the first execution screen420by applying a visual effect (e.g., an animation effect) of moving the image430, instead of depicting movement of content of the application. For example, the processor120may display the first image430by applying a visual effect in which the first image moves at a specified speed (e.g., a constant speed or an increasing speed) from a portion of the first area161-1to the third area161-3(y1-0) via the second area161-2(y2-y1). For example, the processor120may display the first image430by applying a visual effect in which the first image is gradually enlarged while moving to the third area161-3(y1-0). As another example, the processor120may display the first image430by applying a visual effect in which the first image is gradually reduced while moving to the third area161-3(y1-0) and display the first execution screen420while gradually enlarging the same in response to the reduction effect. The disclosure is not limited thereto, and the processor120may display the first image430by applying various other visual effects.

According to an embodiment, when the movement of the first image430to the point 0 is completed as shown in (e) ofFIG.4A, the processor120may control the display module160to remove the first image430applied with the visual effect and display (again) the first execution screen420(e.g., App′) at the second screen ratio on the third area161-3as shown in (f) ofFIG.4A. Here, the first execution screen420at the second screen ratio may be a refreshed screen of the application and may be displayed at the second screen ratio corresponding to the size (e.g., the size from 0 to y1) of the third area161-3.

According to an embodiment, when displaying the first execution screen420on the third area161-3in the folded state as shown inFIG.3Cand (f) ofFIG.4A, the processor120may control the display module160to display another execution screen related to the first application, the second execution screen of the second application, or an object related to at least one application (e.g., an execution icon or content including images, text, or symbols) on the second area161-2.

According to an embodiment, as shown inFIG.3Band (a) ofFIG.4A, the processor120, in the unfolded state, may control the display module160to display the first execution screen of the first application in a portion of the first area161-1and to display the second execution screen of the second application in another portion of the first area161-1. As shown inFIG.3Cand (b) to (d) ofFIG.4A, when switching to the folded state, the processor120may control the display module160to move the first image corresponding to the first execution screen of the first application to the third area161-3via the second area161-2and display the same thereon, and to move the second image corresponding to the second execution screen of the second application to the second area161-2and display the same thereon. As shown in (e) ofFIG.4A, when the movement of the first image and the second image is completed, the processor120may display the first execution screen corresponding to the first image on the third area161-3and display the second execution screen corresponding to the second image on the second area161-2. The first execution screen may be changed to have the second screen ratio, and the first image may be an image corresponding to the first execution screen changed to have the second screen ratio. The second execution screen may be changed to have the third screen ratio, and the second image may be an image corresponding to the second execution screen changed to have the third screen ratio. For example, the third screen ratio may be smaller than the second screen ratio.

According to an embodiment, if a user interaction (e.g., a specified gesture, touch, or voice) is input while the first execution screen is displayed on the third area161-3and while the second execution screen is displayed on the second area161-2, the processor120may control the display module160to display the second execution screen on the third area161-3and to display the first execution screen on the second area161-2.

FIG.4Bis a diagram illustrating an example of displaying an execution screen depending on the state of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.2and4B, the processor120of the electronic device101according to an embodiment may control the display module160to display a first execution screen420at the second screen ratio disposed in the third area (0-y1)161-3of the display161in the folded state of the electronic device101as shown in (a) ofFIG.4B. As shown in (a) ofFIG.4B, when the electronic device101is in the folded state, the first area161-1may be in an inactive state. Here, the first execution screen420may include the same or different content (or objects) as the first execution screen420described with reference toFIG.4A. For example, the processor120may display another execution screen related to a first application or an execution screen of another application on the second area161-2.

According to an embodiment, based on switching to the unfolded state, the processor120may obtain a first image430corresponding to the first execution screen420as shown in (b) ofFIG.4B. The first image430may be an image at a second screen ratio obtained by photographing (e.g., capturing) the first execution screen410. For example, if the angle between the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220is detected to be greater than or equal to a specified reference angle using at least one sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor), the processor120may identify the unfolded state of the display161and obtain a first image430(e.g., the image of App′) corresponding to the currently displayed first execution screen420(e.g., App′) at the second screen ratio. Here, the first image430may include the same or different content (or objects) from the first image430described with reference toFIG.4A. The processor120may control the display module160to display the first image430obtain in the unfolded state on the third area161-3of the display161. For example, when another execution screen related to the first application or an execution screen of another application is displayed on the second area161-2, the processor120may obtain another image corresponding to another execution screen related to the first application or the execution screen of another application.

According to an embodiment, as shown in (c) and (d) ofFIG.4B, the processor120may control the display module160to display the first image430by applying a visual effect in which the first image moves from the third area (0-y1)161-3of the display161to the first area161-1(y2-y3) via the second area (y1-y2)161-2in the unfolded state. When the electronic device101detects the unfolded state or identifies the movement of the first image430, the processor120may switch the first area161-1to an active state. For example, when another execution screen related to the first application or an execution screen of another application is displayed on the second area161-2, the processor120may display a visual effect in which another image corresponding to another execution screen related to the first application or the execution screen of another application moves simultaneously with, sequentially after, or separately from the first image. The processor120may display the first image430by applying the visual effect in which the produced first image430moves, instead of at least one piece of content of the application displayed on the first execution screen420at the second screen ratio. When switching from the unfolded state to the folded state, the processor120may display the first image430obtained by capturing the first execution screen420by applying a visual effect (e.g., an animation effect) of moving the same, instead of at least one piece of content of the application displayed on the first execution screen420. For example, the processor120may display the first image430by applying a visual effect in which the first image moves at a specified speed (e.g., a constant speed or an increasing speed) from a portion of the first area161-1to the third area161-3(y1-0) via the second area161-2(y2-y1). For example, the processor120may display the first image430by applying a visual effect in which the first image is gradually enlarged while moving to the third area161-3(y1-0). As another example, the processor120may display the first image430by applying a visual effect in which the first image is gradually reduced while moving to the third area161-3(y1-0) and display the first execution screen420at the second screen ratio while gradually enlarging the same in response to the reduction effect. The disclosure is not limited thereto, and the processor120may display the first image430by applying various visual effects.

According to an embodiment, when the movement of the first image430is completed as shown in (e) ofFIG.4B, the processor120may control the display module160to remove the first image430applied with the visual effect and in its place display the first execution screen420(e.g., App′) at the second screen ratio on a portion of the first area161-1of the display161. The processor120, as shown in (f) ofFIG.4B, may control the display module160to change the size of the first execution screen420to the first screen ratio and then display the first execution screen410changed to the first screen ratio on the first area161-1of the display. For example, when another execution screen related to the first application or an execution screen of another application is displayed on the second area161-2, the processor120may control the display module160to display another execution screen related to the first application or an execution screen of another application corresponding to another moved image on the first area161-1together with the first execution screen410. For example, when the movement of the first image430is completed, the processor120may switch the second area161-2and/or the third area161-3to an inactive state. As another example, the processor120may maintain an active state and control the display module160to display another execution screen related to the first application or an execution screen of another application on the second area161-2and/or the third area161-3.

Referring toFIGS.2,4A, and4B, when a screen of an always-on display (AOD) is displayed on the third area161-3of the display161in the folded state, the processor120according to an embodiment may control the display module160to change the first execution screen410of the first application to have the third screen ratio and then display the same on the second area161-2.

Referring toFIGS.2,4A, and4B, in the case where a fourth area of the display161is disposed on the third surface213of the first housing structure210and the third surface223of the second housing structure220and where an always-on display (AOD) is displayed on the third area161-3of the display161, the processor120according to an embodiment may change the first execution screen410of the first application to have a fourth screen ratio and display the same on the fourth area of the display161. For example, the fourth screen ratio may be smaller than the second screen ratio and greater than the third screen ratio. According to an embodiment, in the case where the fourth area of the display161is disposed on the third surface223of the second housing structure220and where an always-on display (AOD) is displayed on the third area161-3of the display161, the processor120according to an embodiment may control the display module160to change the first execution screen410of the first application to have the third screen ratio and then display the same on a first portion of the fourth area of the display161, and to change the second execution screen of the second application to have the third screen ratio and then display the same on a second portion of the fourth area. Here, the fourth area of the display161may include the second area161-2, and a portion corresponding to the second area161-2may be disposed on the third surface213of the first housing structure210, and the remaining other portions may be disposed on the third surface223of the second housing structure220.

As described above, in an embodiment, the main elements of the electronic device have been described with reference to the electronic device101inFIGS.1and2. However, in various embodiments, not all of the elements shown inFIGS.1and2are essential elements, and the electronic device101may be implemented using more or fewer elements than the illustrated elements. In addition, the positions of the main elements of the electronic device101described above with reference toFIGS.1and2may vary depending on various embodiments.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device101inFIGS.1and2) may include a housing including a first housing structure (e.g., the first housing structure210inFIG.2) and a second housing structure (e.g., the second housing structure220inFIG.2), a memory (e.g., the memory130inFIG.1), a display module (e.g., the display module160inFIG.1) including a flexible display (e.g., the display161inFIG.2), and at least one processor (e.g., the processor120inFIG.1) electrically connected to the memory and the display module. According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to control the display module to display a first execution screen of a first application at a first screen ratio on a first area of the display in an unfolded (i.e., open, or first) state of the electronic device. According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to change the first screen ratio of the first execution screen into a second screen ratio corresponding to a third area of the display, based on switching to a folded (i.e., closed, or second) state of the electronic device. According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to obtain a first image corresponding to the first execution screen changed to have the second screen ratio, control the display module to move and display the first image to and on the third area by applying a visual effect of moving the first image from the first area to the third area of the display via the second area of the display. According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to, based on completion of the movement of the first image, control the display module to display the first execution screen changed to have the second screen ratio on the third area by replacing the first image.

According to an embodiment, the first area of the display may be disposed on a first surface of the first housing structure and a first surface of the second housing structure. The second area of the display may be disposed on a third surface of the first housing structure. The third area of the display may be disposed on a second surface of the first housing structure. The folded state may be a state in which the housing is closed. For example, in the case of a foldable device, the first surface of the first housing structure and the first surface of the second housing structure are face each other. Alternatively, in a slide-able device, the first surface is slid inside to close the device. In other types of devices, the closed state can be achieved in other manners.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to display, on the second area, a screen including another execution screen related to the first application, a second execution screen of a second application, or an object (e.g., an execution icon or content including images, text, or symbols) related to at least one application in the folded state.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to control the display module to display the first execution screen of the first application at the first screen ratio on the first area in the unfolded state, control the display module to display the first execution screen changed to have the second screen ratio on a portion of the first area, based on switching to the folded state, and obtain the first image by capturing the changed first execution screen.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to control the display module to display a second execution screen of a second application on a portion of the first area in the unfolded state, change the second execution screen to have a third screen ratio, based on switching to the folded state, control the display module to display a second image corresponding to the second execution screen changed to have the third screen ratio on the second area by applying a visual effect of moving the second image from the portion of the first area to the second area, and, based on completion of the movement of the second image to the second area, control the display module to display the second execution screen changed to have the third screen ratio on the second area by replacing the second image.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to control the display module, in response to receiving a user input, to display the first execution screen displayed on the third area on the second area and to display the second execution screen displayed on the second area on the third area, wherein the first execution screen displayed on the second area may be changed to have the third screen ratio, and wherein the second execution screen displayed on the third area may be changed to have the second screen ratio.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to control the display module to change the first execution screen of the first application to have a third screen ratio and display the first execution screen of the first application changed to have the third screen ratio on the second area when a screen of an always-on display is displayed on the third area.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to control the display module to change the first execution screen of the first application to have a fourth screen ratio and display the first execution screen of the first application to have the fourth screen ratio on a fourth area of the display when a screen of an always-on display is displayed on the third area, wherein the fourth area of the display may include the second area, wherein a portion of the fourth area corresponding to the second area may be disposed on a third surface of the first housing structure, and wherein the remaining other portions of the fourth area may be disposed on a third surface of the second housing structure. For example, the fourth screen ratio may be smaller than the second screen ratio and greater than the third screen ratio.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to control the display module to change the first execution screen of the first application to have a third screen ratio and display the first execution screen of the first application changed to have the third screen ratio on a first portion of a fourth area of the display, and to change the second execution screen of the second application to have the third screen ratio and display the second execution screen of the second application changed to have the third screen ratio on a second portion of the fourth area when a screen of an always-on display is displayed on the third area, wherein the fourth area of the display may include the second area, wherein a portion of the fourth area corresponding to the second area may be disposed on a third surface of the first housing structure, and wherein the remaining other portions of the fourth area may be disposed on a third surface of the second housing structure.

According to an embodiment, the at least one processor may be configured to control the display module to display the first image corresponding to the first execution screen displayed on the third area by moving the first image to the first area via the second area when switching from the folded state to the unfolded state, and when the movement of the first image is complete, control the display module to display the first execution screen on the first area by replacing the first image, wherein the first execution screen displayed on the third area may be displayed at the second screen ratio, and wherein the first execution screen displayed on the first area may be displayed at the first screen ratio.

Hereinafter, an operation method in the electronic device will be described with reference to the above-described drawings (e.g.,FIGS.1,2,3A to3C,4A, and4B).

FIG.5is a diagram illustrating an example of a method in an electronic device according to an embodiment.FIGS.6A,6B and6Care diagrams illustrating examples of displaying an execution screen depending on the state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.5,6A,6B and6C, in operation501, an electronic device101(e.g., the electronic device101inFIGS.1and2) according to an embodiment, as shown inFIG.6A, may display a first execution screen610of a first application on the first area161-1of a display161(e.g., the display161inFIG.2) of a display module (e.g., the display module160inFIGS.1and2) in the open, or unfolded state. The electronic device101may display the first execution screen610of the first application at a first screen ratio on the first area161-1(e.g., the area y2 to y3 inFIG.3B) in the open, or unfolded state. For example, the first execution screen610at the first screen ratio may be displayed in a size corresponding to or similar to the size of the first area161-1.

In operation503, the electronic device101may identify switching to the folded state. As shown inFIG.6B, if the angle between the first housing structure210and the second housing structure220is identified to be less than a specified reference angle, the electronic device101may identify switching to the closed, or folded state. The angle is detected using at least one sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor). If switching to the closed, or folded state is detected, the electronic device may perform operation505. On the other hand, if the state does not switch to the closed, or folded state, the electronic device101may perform operation501.

In operation505, the electronic device101may obtain a first image (e.g., a first image430ofFIG.4AandFIG.4B) corresponding to the first execution screen610in the folded state. When obtaining the first image620, the electronic device may change the first execution screen610of the first application to have a second screen ratio and display a first execution screen (e.g., a first execution screen420ofFIG.4AandFIG.4B) at the second screen ratio on a portion of the first area161-1. For example, the second screen ratio may be smaller than the first screen ratio and may be configured as a size corresponding to or similar to the third area161-3(e.g., the area 0 to y1 inFIG.3B) of the display161. For example, a portion of the first area161-1of the display161may have a size corresponding to or similar to the size of the first surface of the first housing structure210. The electronic device101may obtain the first image620at the second screen ratio by photographing (e.g., capturing) the first execution screen620at the second screen ratio. The first image620is obtained by performing a screen capture operation in some embodiments.

In operation507, the electronic device101may display the first image620using a visual effect in which the first image620moves from a portion of the first area161-1to the third area161-3of the display161via the second area161-2of the display161in the closed, or folded state as shown inFIG.6B. The electronic device101may display the first image620by applying a visual effect of moving the captured first image620, instead of transitioning content of the first execution screen at the second screen ratio. Here, if content of the application is to be displayed while moving the content, the screen of the application, to depict a smooth transition, every frame has to be refreshed, thereby increasing resource consumption by the screen display. Accordingly, when switching from the open, or unfolded state to the closed, or folded state, the electronic device101may display the first image620obtained by capturing the first execution screen610by applying a visual effect (e.g., an animation effect) of moving the first image620, instead of moving content of the application displayed on the first execution screen at the second screen ratio. The electronic device101may display the first image620by applying a visual effect in which the first image moves at a specified speed (e.g., a constant speed or an increasing speed) from a portion of the first area161-1of the display161to the third area161-3(y1-0) via the second area161-2(y2-y1). In some embodiments, the electronic device101may display the first image620by applying a visual effect in which the first image is gradually enlarged while moving to the third area161-3(y1-0) of the display161. As another example, the electronic device101may display the first image620by applying a visual effect in which the first image is gradually reduced while moving to the third area161-3(y1-0) of the display161and display the first image620while gradually enlarging the same in response to the reduction effect. The disclosure is not limited thereto, and the processor120may display the first image620by applying various visual effects.

In operation509, the electronic device101may identify whether or not the display of the first image620is complete after displaying the first image on the third area161-3of the display161by applying a visual effect of moving the same at a specified speed thereto. For example, when the first image620is completely moved and displayed on the third area161-3, the electronic device101may identify that the display of the first image620is complete. As another example, the electronic device101may identify that the display of the first image620is completed when a specified time elapses after the first image620is completely moved and displayed on the third area161-3. If the display of the first image620is complete as a result of the identification, the electronic device101may perform operation511. On the other hand, if the display of the first image620is not complete, operation507may be continuously performed.

In operation511, as shown inFIG.6C, based on completion of the movement of the first image620to the third area161-3, the electronic device101may display a first execution screen630at the second screen ratio corresponding to the first image620on the third area161-3. The electronic device101may remove the first image620to which the visual effect is applied and display the first execution screen630(in its place) on the third area161-3. Here, the first execution screen630at the second screen ratio may be a refreshed screen of the application and may be displayed at the second screen ratio corresponding to the size (e.g., the size from 0 to y1) of the third area161-3.

According to an embodiment, when switching from the closed, folded state to the open, or unfolded state, the electronic device101, contrary to the operations inFIGS.5and6, may move a first image620corresponding to the first execution screen630at the second screen ratio displayed on the third area161-3by applying a visual effect of moving the same to the first area161-1via the second area161-2and display the same thereon. Further, electronic device101may display the first execution screen610of the first screen ratio on the first area161-1by replacing the first image620when the movement of the first image620is complete.

FIG.7is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation method in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

An electronic device101(e.g., the electronic device101inFIGS.1,2,3A to3C,4A, and4B) according to an embodiment, in the open, or unfolded state of a display (e.g., the display161inFIGS.2,3A to3C,4A, and4B), may display respective execution screens of different applications on the first area (e.g., the first area (y2-y3)161-1inFIG.4A), like multitasking (split view).

Referring toFIG.7, in operation701, the electronic device according to an embodiment may display a first execution screen of a first application on a first portion of the first area of the display of a display module (e.g., the display module160inFIGS.1and2) and display a second execution screen of a second application on a second portion of the first area.

In operation703, the electronic device may identify switching to the closed, or folded state. If the angle between a first housing structure (e.g., the first housing structure210inFIG.2) and a second housing structure (e.g., the second housing structure220inFIG.2) is identified to be less than a specified reference angle, the electronic device may identify switching to the closed or folded state. The angle maybe monitored using at least one sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor). If switching to the closed, or folded state is identified as a result of the identification, the electronic device may perform operation705. On the other hand, if the state does not switch to the closed, or folded state, the electronic device may continue to perform operation701.

In operation705, in response to the switching to the closed, or folded state, the electronic device101may obtain a first image by photographing (e.g., capturing, screen recording, etc.) the first execution screen of the first application and obtain a second image by photographing (e.g., capturing, screen recording, etc.) the second execution screen of the second application. For example, the electronic device101may select a main screen to be displayed on the third area and a sub-screen to be displayed on the second area from among the first execution screen and the second execution screen displayed in the unfolded state. The execution screen selected as a main screen may be changed to have a second screen ratio, and the execution screen selected as a sub-screen may be changed to have a third screen ratio. For example, the electronic device may select, as the main screen, the execution screen selected by the user from among the first execution screen and the second execution screen, the execution screen onto which the last user input is made before switching to the folded state, or a focused execution screen. The second screen ratio may be smaller than the first screen ratio, and the third screen ratio may be smaller than the second screen ratio. Other relationships among the screen ratios are possible. For example, in the case where the first execution screen of the first application is focused, the electronic device may capture the focused first execution screen to obtain a first image at the second screen ratio (e.g., the size of the third area (0 to y1)161-3inFIG.3A) and capture the non-focused second execution screen to obtain a second image at the third screen ratio (e.g., the size at the second area (y1 to y2)161-2inFIG.3A).

In operation707, the electronic device may display the first image and the second image in the folded state by applying a visual effect in which the first image and the second image move from the portions of the first area to the second area and the third area of the display, respectively. In some embodiments, the visual effect is depicted based on a specified speed. For example, the electronic device may display the first image by applying a visual effect (e.g., an animation effect) of moving the first image to the third area (e.g., the third area y1 to 0 inFIG.3A) via the second area (e.g., the second area y2 to y1 inFIG.3A). The electronic device may display the second image by applying a visual effect (e.g., an animation effect) of moving the second image to the second area (e.g., the second area y2 to y1 inFIG.3A). The electronic device may move and arrange the first image obtained by capturing the focused first execution screen on an upper portion and the second image obtained by capturing the non-focused second execution screen on a lower portion following the first image, thereby sorting the display order.

In operation709, based on completion of the movement of each of the first image and the second image, the electronic device may move and display a refreshed first execution screen replacing the first image and a refreshed second execution screen replacing the second image. For example, if the first execution screen is selected as a main screen and focused, the electronic device may move and display the first image on the third area, and move and display the second image aligned following with the first image on the second area. As another example, if the second execution screen is selected as a main screen and focused, the electronic device may align the second image on the upper portion, move and display the second image on the third area, and move and display the first image aligned with the second image on the second area.

In operation711, the electronic device may identify whether or not a user input (e.g., a user input such as a designated gesture, touch, or voice) is received in the closed, or folded state. If the user input is received, in response, operation713may be performed. On the other hand, if the user input is not received, operation711may be continuously performed. For example, the electronic device may identify that user input such as a touch or a swipe is received in the non-focused second area.

In operation713, the electronic device may display the first execution screen and the second execution screen by switching between them in the folded state. For example, if the first execution screen is focused as a main screen, the focus of the first execution screen displayed on the third area may be released, and the electronic device may display the first execution screen by switching from the third area to the second area. The first execution screen may be reduced corresponding to the screen ratio of the second area. The electronic device may set a focus while moving and displaying the second execution screen, as a sub-screen, displayed on the second area to the third area. The first execution screen may be enlarged corresponding to the screen ratio of the second area. As another example, if the second execution screen is focused as a main screen, the electronic device may display the second execution screen on the third area and display the first execution screen on the second area so that the focus of the second execution screen, as a main screen, displayed on the third area is released, thereby displaying the same by switching from the third area to the second area and so that a focus may be set on the first execution screen, as a sub-screen, displayed on the second area by moving and displaying the same to and on the third area.

FIGS.8A,8B,8C and8Dare diagrams illustrating examples of displaying an execution screen depending on the state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.7and8A,8B,8C and8D, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device101inFIGS.1and2) according to an embodiment, as shown in operation701inFIG.7andFIG.8A, may display a first execution screen810of a first application on a first portion of the first area161-1of the display161included in the display module and display a second execution screen820of a second application on a second portion of the first area161-1in the unfolded state. For example, the first portion of the first area161-1may have a size corresponding to or similar to the size of the first housing structure210, and the second portion of the first area161-1may have a size corresponding to or similar to the size of the second housing structure220.

According to an embodiment, if the selected second execution screen820is selected as a main screen to be displayed on the third area161-3of the display161from among the first execution screen810and the second execution screen820, a visual effect indicating that the selected second execution screen820is focused (e.g., displaying a bold line, displaying highlight, or displaying a specific mark) may be displayed.

According to an embodiment, as shown in operation705inFIG.7and inFIG.8B, if it is detected that the display161is being closed, or folded using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may capture the first execution screen810to obtain a first image811and capture the second execution screen820to obtain a second image821. Here, the first image811is a sub-screen and may be produced by being reduced to the size of the third screen ratio so as to be moved to and displayed on the second area161-2, and the second image821may be produced to have the size of the second screen ratio so as to be moved to and displayed on the third area161-3.

According to an embodiment, as shown in operation707inFIG.7and inFIG.8B, if it is detected that the display161is being closed, or folded using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may display the second image821obtained by capturing the second execution screen820, which is a main screen, on the third area161-3at the second screen ratio by applying a visual effect of moving the same to the third area161-3. Here, the second screen ratio may have a size corresponding to or similar to that of the third area161-3. The electronic device101may display the first image811obtained by capturing the first execution screen810, which is a sub-screen, on the second area161-2at the third screen ratio by applying a visual effect of moving the same to the second area161-2. Here, the third screen ratio may have a size corresponding to or similar to that of the second area161-2.

According to an embodiment, as shown in operation709inFIG.7and inFIG.8C, if it is detected that the display161is in the fully closed, or folded state using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may display the first execution screen813at the third screen ratio by replacing the first image811displayed on the second area161-2and display the second execution screen823at the second screen ratio by replacing the second image821displayed on the third area161-3.

According to an embodiment, as shown in operation713inFIG.7and inFIG.8D, if it is identified that a user input such as a touch or a swipe is received in the non-focused second area, the electronic device may display the first execution screen813and the second execution screen823by switching therebetween. The electronic device101may change the first execution screen813to have the second screen ratio and display the changed first execution screen815as a main screen on the third area161-3, and may change the second execution screen823to have the third screen ratio and display the changed second execution screen825as a sub-screen on the second area161-2. For example, the focus of the second execution screen823displayed on the third area161-3is released, and the electronic device101may move the second execution screen825from the third area161-3to the second area161-2and may display the second execution screen825reduced to the third screen ratio from on the second area161-2. The electronic device101may move the first execution screen813, as a sub-screen, displayed on the second area161-2to the third area161-3and display the first execution screen815enlarged to the second screen ratio from on the third area161-3.

FIG.9is a diagram illustrating an example of displaying an execution screen depending on the state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.9, an electronic device101(e.g., the electronic device101inFIGS.1and2) according to an embodiment may display a first execution screen910of a first application on the first area161-1of the display161included in the display module160in the open, or unfolded state. If it is detected that the display161switches from the open, or unfolded state to the closed, or folded state using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may change the first execution screen910to have the second screen ratio and capture the changed first execution screen to obtain a first image911. The electronic device101may set the first execution screen910as a main screen, move the first image911from the first area161-1to the third area161-3via the second area161-2of the display161, and display the same thereon. The electronic device101may obtain a sub-screen920including content to be displayed on the second area161-2(e.g., a recently executed application, an application frequently executed by a user, content, weather, an execution icon indicating clock or notification, or a system indicator) and display the same on the second area161-2. For example, the sub-screen920may be displayed on the second area161-2so as to appear gradually in response to the movement of the first image911or may be displayed when the first image911leaves the second area161-2. As another example, if the first execution screen910is changed to have the second screen ratio, the electronic device may display the sub-screen920in the lower area of the first area161-1where the changed first execution screen is displayed, obtain an image by capturing the sub-screen920, move the image obtained by capturing the sub-screen920according to the movement of the first image911, and display the same on the second area161-2.

According to an embodiment, if it is identified that the display161is in the fully closed, or folded state using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may display the first execution screen913on the third area161-3at the second screen ratio by replacing the first image911and display the sub-screen920on the second area161-2of the display161. For example, when the image obtained by capturing the sub-screen920is displayed on the second area161-2, the sub-screen920may be displayed.

FIGS.10A,10B and10Care diagrams illustrating an example of displaying an execution screen depending on the state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.10A,10B and10C, an electronic device101(e.g., the electronic device101inFIGS.1and2) according to an embodiment may display a first execution screen1010of a first application on the first area161-1of the display161included in the display module160in the open, or unfolded state as shown inFIG.10A. As shown inFIG.10B, if it is detected that the display161is closed, or folded state using at least one sensor and if a user performs selection to display an always-on display (AOD) execution screen on the third area161-3, the electronic device101may produce a first image1011at the third screen ratio by capturing the first execution screen1010displayed on the first area161-1. The execution screen is displayed as the always-on display (AOD) to an AOD image (1020). Further, the electronic device moves and displays the first image1011and the AOD image1020on the second area161-2and the third area161-3, respectively, by applying a visual effect (e.g., an animation effect). In some embodiments, the third screen ratio may have a size corresponding to or similar to the second area161-2(e.g., the area y1-y2 inFIG.3B). The electronic device101may display the first image1011at the third screen ratio on the second area161-2of the display161and display the AOD image on the third area161-3. If it is detected that the display161is in the closed or fully folded state using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may display the first execution screen at the third screen ratio on the second area161-2by replacing the first image1011. When the main screen is turned off after the display161completely switches to the closed, or folded state using at least one sensor and when the execution screens in the second area161-2and the third area161-3are turned off, the electronic device101may display an AOD on the third area161-3.

According to an embodiment, as shown inFIG.10C, when a user input (e.g., touch or drag)1001is received in the second area161-2, the electronic device101may change the first execution screen at the third screen ratio displayed on the second area161-2to a first image1013at the second screen ratio and display the first image1013on the third area161-3by applying a visual effect of moving the image from the second area161-2to the third area161-3. When the first image1013is completely moved to the third area161-3, the electronic device101may display the first execution screen at the second screen ratio on the third area161-3by replacing the first image1013. For example, when displaying the first execution screen at the second screen ratio on the third area161-3, the electronic device101may display a screen of an always-on display (AOD) changed to have the third screen ratio on the second area161-2.

FIG.11is a diagram illustrating an example of displaying an execution screen depending on the state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.11, an electronic device101(e.g., the electronic device101inFIGS.1and2) according to an embodiment may display a first execution screen1110of a first application and a second execution screen1120of a second application on the first area161-1of the display161included in the display module160in the open, or unfolded state. If the first execution screen1110is focused as a main screen and if switching from the open, or unfolded state to the closed, folded state is detected using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may capture the first execution screen1110to obtain a first image1111and capture the second execution screen1120to obtain a second image1121.

According to an embodiment, if switching from the open, or unfolded state to the closed, or folded state is detected using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may display the first image1111at the second screen ratio on the third area161-3by applying a visual effect of moving first image1111to the third area161-3via the second area161-2and display the second image1121at a fourth screen ratio on the fourth area161-4by applying a visual effect according to the movement and display of the first image111. In some embodiments, the fourth screen ratio may have a size corresponding to or similar to the fourth area161-4of the display161. The fourth area of the display161may include the second area161-2of the display161, and a portion corresponding to the second area161-2may be disposed on the third surface213(e.g., the second surface212inFIGS.2,3A,3B, and3C) of the first housing structure210. The remaining other portions may be disposed on the third surface223(e.g., the third surface213inFIGS.2,3A,3B, and3C) of the second housing structure220.

According to an embodiment, if the electronic device101switches from the open, unfolded state to the closed, or folded state using at least one sensor and if an always-on display (AOD) is configured to be displayed on the third area161-3in the closed, or folded state, the electronic device101may display the first image1113at the third screen ratio by applying a visual effect of moving the same to a first portion of the fourth area161-4disposed on the first surface213(e.g., the second surface212inFIGS.2,3A,3B, and3C) of the first housing210. The second image1123is displayed at the third screen ratio on a second portion of the fourth area161-4by applying a visual effect of moving the same to the second portion of the fourth area161-4disposed on the third surface223(e.g., the third surface213inFIGS.2,3A,3B, and3C) of the second housing structure220. The image1130to be displayed as an AOD screen may be displayed on the third area161-3at the second screen ratio.

According to an embodiment, if it is detected that the display161is in the closed, or fully folded state using at least one sensor, the electronic device101may display the first execution screen at the third screen ratio on the first portion of the fourth area161-4by replacing the first image1113. Further, the second execution screen is displayed at the third screen ratio on the second portion of the fourth area161-4by replacing the second image1123.

According to an embodiment, when a user input (e.g., touch or drag)1001is received in the first portion of the fourth area161-4, the electronic device101may move the image obtained by capturing the first execution screen at the third screen ratio displayed on the first portion of the fourth area161-4to the third area161-3by applying a visual effect of moving the same. In some embodiments, the image thereon is enlarged and displayed. The second execution screen at the third screen ratio displayed on the second portion of the fourth area161-4may be enlarged and displayed on the entire area of the fourth area161-4, and the image1130to be displayed as an AOD screen may be removed. In some embodiments, the electronic device101may move the image obtained by capturing the first execution screen at the third screen ratio displayed on the first portion of the fourth area161-4to the third area161-3by applying a visual effect of moving the same. The electronic device may enlarge and display the image thereon. Further, the electronic device may reduce the image1130to be displayed as an AOD screen by applying a visual effect of moving the same to the first portion of the fourth area161-4and displaying the image on the first portion of the fourth area161-4.

According to an embodiment, if a user input (e.g., touch, drag, etc.)1001is received in the second portion of the fourth area161-4, the electronic device101may move the image obtained by capturing the second execution screen at the third screen ratio displayed on the second portion of the fourth area161-4to the third area161-3by applying a visual effect of moving the same, and enlarge and display the image thereon. The first execution screen at the third screen ratio displayed on the first portion of the fourth area161-4may be enlarged and displayed on the entire area of the fourth area161-4, and the image1130to be displayed as an AOD screen may be removed. For example, the electronic device101may move the image obtained by capturing the second execution screen at the third screen ratio displayed on the second portion of the fourth area161-4to the third area161-3by applying a visual effect of moving the same, and enlarge and display the image thereon, and may reduce the image1130to be displayed as an AOD screen by applying a visual effect of moving the same to the second portion of the fourth area161-4and display the image on the second portion of the fourth area161-4.

According to an embodiment, when the main screen is turned off after the display161completely switches to the closed, or folded state using at least one sensor and when the execution screens in the fourth area161-4are turned off, the electronic device101may display an AOD on the third area161-3.

According to an embodiment, a method in an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device101inFIGS.1and2) may include displaying a first execution screen of a first application at a first screen ratio on a first area of a flexible display (e.g., the display161inFIG.2) of the electronic device in an open, or unfolded state of the electronic device. The method further includes changing the first screen ratio of the first execution screen into a second screen ratio, based on switching to a closed, or folded state of the electronic device. The method further includes obtaining a first image corresponding to the first execution screen changed to have the second screen ratio. The method further includes moving and displaying the first image on the third area by applying a visual effect of moving the first image from the first area to the third area of the display via the second area of the display. The method further includes, based on completion of the movement of the first image, displaying the first execution screen changed to have the second screen ratio on the third area by replacing the first image.

According to an embodiment, the first area of the display may be disposed on a first surface of a first housing structure (e.g., the first housing structure210inFIG.2) and a first surface of a second housing structure (e.g., the second housing structure220inFIG.1). The second area of the display may be disposed on a third surface of the first housing structure. The third area of the display may be disposed on a second surface of the first housing structure The closed, or folded state may be a state in which the housing is folded such that the first surface of the first housing structure and the first surface of the second housing structure face each other.

According to an embodiment, the method may further include displaying, on the second area, a screen including another execution screen related to the first application, a second execution screen of a second application, or an object (e.g., an execution icon or content including images, text, or symbols) related to at least one application in the folded state.

According to an embodiment, obtaining of the first image may include displaying the first execution screen of the first application at the first screen ratio on the first area in the unfolded state, displaying the first execution screen changed to use the second screen ratio on a portion of the first area, based on switching to the folded state. In some embodiments, the first image is obtained by capturing the first execution screen changed to use the second screen ratio using a camera module (e.g., the camera module180inFIG.1) of the electronic device.

According to an embodiment, the method may further include displaying a second execution screen of a second application on a portion of the first area in the unfolded state. The method may further include changing the second execution screen to have a third screen ratio, based on switching to the folded state. The method may further include displaying a second image corresponding to the second execution screen changed to have the third screen ratio on the second area by applying a visual effect of moving the second image from the portion of the first area to the second area. The method may further include, based on completion of the movement of the second image to the second area, displaying the second execution screen changed to have the third screen ratio on the second area by replacing the second image.

According to an embodiment, the method may further include changing the first execution screen of the first application to use a third screen ratio and displaying the first execution screen of the first application changed to use the third screen ratio on the second area when a screen of an always-on display is displayed on the third area.

According to an embodiment, the method may further include changing the first execution screen of the first application to have a fourth screen ratio and displaying the first execution screen of the first application changed to have the fourth screen ratio on a fourth area of the display when a screen of an always-on display is displayed on the third area. The fourth area of the display may include the second area, wherein a portion of the fourth area corresponding to the second area may be disposed on a third surface of the first housing structure. The remaining other portions of the fourth area may be disposed on a third surface of the second housing structure.

According to an embodiment, the method may further include changing the first execution screen of the first application to have a third screen ratio and displaying the first execution screen of the first application changed to use the third screen ratio on a first portion of a fourth area of the display. The method may further include changing the second execution screen of the second application to have the third screen ratio and displaying the second execution screen of the application changed to use the third screen ratio on a second portion of the fourth area when a screen of an always-on display is displayed on the third area. The fourth area of the display may include the second area, wherein a portion of the fourth area corresponding to the second area may be disposed on a third surface of the first housing structure. The remaining other portions of the fourth area may be disposed on a third surface of the second housing structure.

According to an embodiment, the method may further include displaying the first image corresponding to the first execution screen displayed on the third area by moving the first image to the first area via the second area when switching from the folded state to the unfolded state. When the movement of the first image is complete, the first execution screen is displayed on the first area by replacing the first image. The first execution screen displayed on the third area may be displayed at the second screen ratio. The first execution screen displayed on the first area may be displayed at the first screen ratio.

According to an embodiment, a non-transitory recording medium for storing a program including instructions that cause, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, the electronic device to display a first execution screen of a first application at a first screen ratio on a first area of a flexible display of the electronic device in an unfolded state. The electronic device may obtain a first image corresponding to the first execution screen, based on switching to a folded state of the electronic device. The electronic device may display the first image by applying a visual effect of moving the first image from the first area to the third area of the display via the second area of the display. Based on completion of the movement of the first image, the electronic device may display the first execution screen on the third area by replacing the first image.

In addition, embodiments disclosed herein are provided merely to easily describe technical details of the disclosure and to help the understanding of the disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the disclosure should be construed as including all modifications or various other embodiments based on the technical idea of the disclosure.

The electronic device according to various embodiments may be one of various 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 various 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 various 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 various 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).

Various 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., internal memory136or 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 complier or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Wherein, 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 embodiment, a method according to various 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 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 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 various 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.