Patent ID: 12256190

Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals will be understood to refer to like parts, components, and structures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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 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 device150, a sound output device155, a display device160, an audio module170, a sensor module176, an interface177, a connection 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 various embodiments, at least one (e.g., the display device160or the camera module180) of the components may be omitted from the electronic device101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device101. In various embodiments, some of the components may be implemented as single integrated circuitry. For example, the sensor module176(e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented as embedded in the display device160(e.g., a display).

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 an embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor120may load 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)), and an auxiliary processor123(e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), 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. Additionally or alternatively, 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 at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display device160, 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 state (e.g., executing an application). 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.

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 device150may receive a command or data to be used by other component (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101. The input device150may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The sound output device155may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device101. The sound output device155may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record, and the receiver may be used for an incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.

The display device160may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device101. The display device160may 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 device160may include touch circuitry adapted to detect a touch, or sensor circuitry (e.g., 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 device150, or output the sound via the sound output device155or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device102) directly (e.g., wiredly) 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 (e.g., wiredly) 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 connection 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 connection terminal178may include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a 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 motion) 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 an embodiment, the power management module388may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

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

The communication module190may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device101and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102, the electronic device104, or the server108) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module190may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor120(e.g., the application processor (AP)) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module190may include a wireless communication module192(e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module194(e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network198(e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network199(e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a cellular 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 and authenticate the electronic device101in a communication network, such as the first network198or the second network199, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module196.

The antenna module197may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device). According to an embodiment, the antenna module may include one antenna including a radiator formed of or including a conductor or conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, the antenna module197may include a plurality of antennas. In this case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in a communication network, such as the first network198or the second network199, may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, e.g., the communication module190. 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, other parts (e.g., radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) than the radiator may be further formed as part of the antenna module197.

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, instructions or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device101and the external electronic device104via the server108coupled with the second network199. Each of the electronic devices102and104may 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, or client-server computing technology may be used, for example.

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 smart phone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or home appliance, or the like. 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 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 herein, the term “module” may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, or any combination thereof, 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, with or without using one or more other components under the control of the processor. This allows the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction invoked. The one or more instructions may include a code generated by a compiler or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term “non-transitory” storage medium may, for example, refer to a tangible device, and may 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 products may be traded as commodities between sellers and buyers. 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., Play Store™), 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. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components before the integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

FIG.2is a front perspective view illustrating an example electronic device101according to various embodiments.FIG.3is a rear perspective view illustrating an example electronic device101according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.2and3, according to an embodiment, an electronic device101may include a housing310with a first (or front) surface310A, a second (or rear) surface310B, and a side surface310C surrounding a space between the first surface310A and the second surface310B. According to an embodiment (not shown), the housing may denote a structure forming part of the first surface310A, the second surface310B, and the side surface310C ofFIG.3. According to an embodiment, at least part of the first surface310A may have a substantially transparent front plate302(e.g., a glass plate or polymer plate). The second surface310B may be formed of a substantially opaque rear plate311. The rear plate311may be formed of, e.g., laminated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two thereof. The side surface310C may be formed by a side bezel structure (or a “side member”)318that couples to the front plate302and the rear plate311and includes a metal and/or polymer. According to an embodiment, the rear plate311and the side bezel plate318may be integrally formed together and include the same material (e.g., a metal, such as aluminum).

In the embodiment illustrated, the front plate302may include two first regions310D, which seamlessly and bendingly extend from the first surface310A to the rear plate311, on both the long edges of the front plate302. In the embodiment (refer toFIG.3) illustrated, the rear plate311may include second regions310E, which seamlessly and bendingly extend from the second surface310B to the front plate, on both the long edges. According to an embodiment, the front plate302(or the rear plate311) may include only one of the first regions310D (or the second regions310E). Alternatively, the first regions310D or the second regions301E may partially be excluded. According to an embodiment, in a side view of the electronic device101, the side bezel structure318may have a first thickness (or width) for sides that do not have the first regions310D or the second regions310E and a second thickness, which is smaller than the first thickness, for sides that have the first regions310D or the second regions310E.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include at least one or more of a display301, audio modules303,307, and314, sensor modules304,316, and319, camera modules305,312, and313, key input devices317, a light emitting device306, and connector holes308. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may exclude at least one (e.g., the key input device317or the light emitting device306) of the components or may add other components.

According to an embodiment, the display301may be visually exposed through, e.g., a majority portion of the front plate302. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the display301may be exposed through the front plate302forming the first surface310A and the first regions310D of the side surface310C. According to an embodiment, the edge of the display301may be formed to be substantially the same in shape as an adjacent outer edge of the front plate302. According to an embodiment (not shown), the interval between the outer edge of the display301and the outer edge of the front plate302may remain substantially even to give a larger area of exposure the display301.

According to an embodiment (not shown), the screen display region of the display301may have a recess or opening in a portion thereof, and at least one or more of the audio module314, sensor module304, camera module305, and light emitting device306may be aligned with the recess or opening. According to an embodiment (not shown), at least one or more of the audio module314, sensor module304, camera module305, fingerprint sensor316, and light emitting device306may be included on the rear surface of the screen display region of the display301. According to an embodiment (not shown), the display301may be disposed to be coupled with, or adjacent, a touch detecting circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the strength (pressure) of touches, and/or a digitizer for detecting a magnetic field-type stylus pen. According to an embodiment, at least part of the sensor modules304and319and/or at least part of the key input device317may be disposed in the first regions310D and/or the second regions310E.

According to an embodiment, the audio modules303,307, and314may include, e.g., a microphone hole303and speaker holes307and314. The microphone hole303may have a microphone inside to obtain external sounds. According to an embodiment, there may be a plurality of microphones to be able to detect the direction of a sound. The speaker holes307and314may include an external speaker hole307and a phone receiver hole314. According to an embodiment, the speaker holes307and314and the microphone hole303may be implemented as a single hole, or speakers may be included without the speaker holes307and314(e.g., piezo speakers). The audio modules303,307, and314are not limited to the above-described structure. Depending on the structure of the electronic device101, various design changes may be made—e.g., only some of the audio modules may be mounted, or a new audio module may be added.

According to an embodiment, the sensor modules304,316, and319may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state or external environmental state of the electronic device101. The sensor modules304,316, and319may include a first sensor module304(e.g., a proximity sensor) and/or a second sensor module (not shown) (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the first surface310A of the housing310and/or a third sensor module319(e.g., a heart-rate monitor (HRM) sensor) and/or a fourth sensor module316(e.g., a fingerprint sensor) disposed on the second surface310B of the housing310. The fingerprint sensor may be disposed on the second surface310B as well as on the first surface310A (e.g., the display301) of the housing310. The electronic device101may further include sensor modules not shown, e.g., at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor304. The sensor modules304,316, and319are not limited to the above-described structure. Depending on the structure of the electronic device101, various design changes may be made—e.g., only some of the sensor modules may be mounted, or a new sensor module may be added.

According to an embodiment, the camera modules305,312, and313may include a first camera device305disposed on the first surface310A of the electronic device101, and a second camera device312and/or a flash313disposed on the second surface310B. The camera modules305and312may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. The flash313may include, e.g., a light emitting diode (LED) or a xenon lamp. According to an embodiment, two or more lenses (an infrared (IR) camera, a wide-angle lens, and a telescopic lens) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface of the electronic device101. The camera modules305,312, and313are not limited to the above-described structure. Depending on the structure of the electronic device101, various design changes may be made—e.g., only some of the camera modules may be mounted, or a new camera module may be added.

According to an embodiment, the key input device317may be disposed, e.g., on the side surface310C of the housing310. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may exclude all or some of the above-mentioned key input devices317and the excluded key input devices317may be implemented in other forms, e.g., as soft keys, on the display301. According to an embodiment, the key input device may include the sensor module316disposed on the second surface310B of the housing310.

According to an embodiment, the light emitting device306may be disposed on, e.g., the first surface310A of the housing310. The light emitting device306may provide, e.g., information about the state of the electronic device101in the form of light. According to an embodiment, the light emitting device306may provide a light source that interacts with, e.g., the camera module305. The light emitting device306may include, e.g., a light emitting device (LED), an infrared (IR) LED, or a xenon lamp.

According to an embodiment, the connector holes308may include a first connector hole308for receiving a connector (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) connector) for transmitting or receiving power and/or data to/from an external electronic device and/or a second connector hole (e.g., an earphone jack) (not shown) for receiving a connector for transmitting or receiving audio signals to/from the external electronic device. The connector holes308are not limited to the above-described structure. Depending on the structure of the electronic device101, various design changes may be made—e.g., only some of the connector holes may be mounted, or a new connector hole may be added.

FIG.4is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example electronic device101according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.4, according to an embodiment, an electronic device101(e.g., the electronic device101ofFIGS.1,2, and3) may include a housing310, a display330, a printed circuit board340, a battery350, an antenna370, and an audio module390. According to an embodiment, the housing310may include a front plate320, a side surface member (e.g., a side bezel structure331or a first supporting member332), and a back plate380. As another example, the electronic device101may include a second supporting member360(e.g., a rear case). According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may exclude at least one (e.g., the first supporting member332or the second supporting member360) of the components or may add other components. At least one of the components of the electronic device101may be the same or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device101ofFIG.2or3and no repeated description is provided below.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a bar-shaped mobile device, a foldable mobile device, or a slidable mobile device. For example, the electronic device101may include a plurality of housings rotatable on each other or a plurality of housings slidable relative to each other. As another example, the electronic device101may include a display330(e.g., a flexible display) bendable or rollable with a predetermined curvature. The housing310of the electronic device101may allow the electronic device to bend, roll, or unfold without damage to the flexible display due to deformation. According to an embodiment, the first supporting member332may be disposed inside the electronic device101to be connected with the side bezel structure331or integrated with the side bezel structure331. The first supporting member332may be formed of or include, e.g., a metal and/or non-metallic material (e.g., polymer). The display330may be joined onto one surface of the first supporting member332, and the printed circuit board340may be joined onto the opposite surface of the first supporting member332. A processor, memory, and/or interface may be mounted on the printed circuit board340. The processor may include one or more of, e.g., a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphic processing device, an image signal processing, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor.

According to an embodiment, the memory may include, e.g., a volatile or non-volatile memory.

According to an embodiment, the interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, and/or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect, e.g., the electronic device101with an external electronic device and may include a USB connector, an SD card/multimedia card (MMC) connector, or an audio connector.

According to an embodiment, the battery350may be a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device101. The battery350may include, e.g., a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell. At least a portion of the battery350may be disposed on substantially the same plane as the printed circuit board340. The battery350may be integrally or detachably disposed inside the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, the antenna370may be disposed between the rear plate380and the battery350. The antenna370may include, e.g., a near-field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna370may perform short-range communication with, e.g., an external device or may wirelessly transmit or receive power necessary for charging. According to an embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a portion or combination of the side bezel structure331and/or the first supporting member332.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the audio module390may convert, e.g., a sound signal into an electrical signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, as the audio module390, a microphone for obtaining external sounds may be mounted inside the electronic device101, or a speaker for outputting sounds to the outside may be mounted inside the electronic device101. The microphone may obtain sound through a microphone hole (e.g., the microphone hole303ofFIG.2A), and the speaker may output sound through a speaker hole (e.g., the speaker hole307or314ofFIG.2A).

FIG.5is an exploded perspective view illustrating a mounting structure of a speaker module formed on one side of an example electronic device according to various embodiments.FIG.6is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A′ ofFIG.5.FIG.7is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B′ ofFIG.5.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device101ofFIGS.1,2,3, and4) may include a speaker module400(e.g., the audio module390ofFIG.4) packing various components in its internal space. The speaker module400may come in a separate carrier shape including a speaker component410. As another example, the speaker module400may be prepared in such a structure as to shield off the backward sounds from the speaker component, e.g., plates and/or brackets, along with a carrier, included in the housing of the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, the speaker module400may include a speaker housing420including a conduit424extending to an internal space S, a speaker component410positioned in a first area S1of the internal space S adjacent to the conduit424, a vent hole430spaced apart from the speaker component and passing through at least part of the speaker housing420, a sound absorbing material440disposed in a second area S2of the internal space S to be positioned adjacent to the speaker component410to absorb a sound generated from the speaker component410, and a guide structure450disposed to surround the vent hole430and including at least one protrusion450atowards the internal space S.

In the three-axis rectangular coordinate system, ‘Z’ may refer, for example, to the thickness direction of the speaker module400, ‘Y’ the lengthwise direction of the speaker module400, and ‘X’ the width direction of the speaker module400. According to an embodiment, ‘Z’ may refer, for example, to a first direction (a +Z axis direction, hereinafter “+Z”) or a second direction (a −Z axis direction, hereinafter “−Z”), ‘Y’ may refer, for example, to a third direction (a +Y axis direction or a −Y axis direction, hereinafter “+Y” or “−Y”), and ‘X’ may refer, for example, to a fourth direction (a +X axis direction or a −X axis direction, hereinafter “+X” or “−X”).

According to an embodiment, the speaker housing420may include a front plate421facing in the first direction +Z, a back plate422facing in a second direction −Z which is opposite to the first direction +Z, and a side surface plate423surrounding an internal space S between the front plate421and the back plate422and having a conduit424extending to the outside. As an example, the speaker housing420may include an upper structure510including at least one surface facing in the first direction +Z and a lower structure520including at least one surface facing in the second direction −Z opposite to the first direction +Z and formed to couple with the upper structure510.

According to an embodiment, the upper structure510may include a front surface511facing in the first direction +Z and a first side surface513extending from the front surface511in the second direction −Z and facing in the third direction +Y or −Y or the fourth direction +X or −X. The front surface511may include an opening511apassing through at least a portion thereof and formed to expose at least a portion of the front surface of the speaker component410. As an example, to couple with the lower structure520, the upper structure510may provide an area for forming a coupling hole (e.g., a screw hole) or an area formed along the inner side of the upper structure510to place a sealing member and/or adhesive member. The sealing member and/or adhesive member disposed in the upper structure510and/or lower structure520may cut off leakage of sound waves from the internal space S to a path other than a designated section or prevent influx of foreign bodies including fluids. The sealing member may be formed of a sealing or adhesive material via, e.g., a gasket and/or tape.

According to an embodiment, the lower structure520may include a back surface521facing in the second direction −Z and a second side surface523extending from the back surface521in the first direction +Z and facing in the third direction +Y or −Y or the fourth direction +X or −X. The thickness of the second side surface523may be larger than the thickness of the first side surface513. The lower structure520may have a vent hole430for providing an area where most of the speaker component410is seated and passing through at least part of the back surface521. The vent hole430may be a structure for air circulation. There may be formed one or more vent holes430to release the difference in atmospheric pressure between the inside and outside of the speaker module400.

According to an embodiment, a conduit424extending to the outside of the speaker module400may be disposed in an area of the first side surface513and/or the second side surface523. For example, the conduit424may connect to the outside of the speaker module400via a coupling between the first side surface513and the second side surface523. As an example, the conduit424may connect to a through hole formed through the plate and/or bracket included in the housing of the electronic device to the outside of the electronic device101. The conduit424of the speaker module400may connect to the through hole of the housing of the electronic device101, providing for air ventilation to the outside of the electronic device101and sound propagation from the speaker component410to the outside.

According to an embodiment, the internal space S of the speaker housing420may include a first area S1where the speaker component410is seated and a second area S2formed to at least partially surround the speaker component410and providing a resonance space. The first area S1may be formed corresponding to the shape of the speaker component410and connect to the first side surface513and/or the second side surface523where the conduit424is formed. An elastic member460may be disposed in the first area S1to stably support the back surface521of the speaker component410. The sound absorbing material440for absorbing sound from the speaker component410, the vent hole430for releasing the atmospheric pressure difference, and the guide structure450disposed adjacent to the vent hole430may be positioned in the second area S2.

According to an embodiment, the speaker component410may be formed substantially in a hexahedral shape and may be disposed so that a vibration plate formed ahead is exposed through the opening511aof the upper structure510. The speaker component410may include at least one side surface facing in the third direction +Y or −Y or the fourth direction +X or −X. The side surface may be disposed adjacent to the edge of the speaker housing420and the housing of the electronic device101, and the conduit424may be formed along the direction in which the side surface faces so as to guide sound propagation.

According to an embodiment, the sound absorbing material440may be formed with a plurality of particles and be disposed in the second area S2to cancel out, by destructive interference, the low-frequency sounds generated from one surface of the speaker component410. The sound absorbing material440may be formed with myriad spherical particles with a designated diameter. The sound absorbing material440may be formed of various sound-absorbing materials, such as sponge, cashmere, fiber glass, or wool.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure450may be disposed on an inner side surface of the lower structure520to surround the vent hole430. The guide structure450may include at least one protrusion450atowards the internal space S. The at least one protrusion450amay be formed to maintain the air ventilation of the vent hole430without direct contact to the vent hole430. For example, the guide structure450including one protrusion450amay be shaped as a closed loop formed along the vent hole430and may provide an air circulation path that has a designated thickness and has a front opening and/or side opening extending with the vent hole430. As an example, in the guide structure450with a plurality of protrusions450a, the plurality of protrusions450amay be disposed apart from each other around the vent hole430, so that the opening facing the front surface and/or side surface of the vent hole430extends with the vent hole430to provide an air circulation path. The specific structure of the vent hole430and the guide structure450is described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG.8is a perspective view illustrating a guide structure and vent hole of an example speaker module according to various embodiments.FIG.9is a cross-sectional view illustrating a guide structure and vent hole of an example speaker module according to various embodiments.

FIG.8is an enlarged perspective view of area C ofFIG.5.

According to an embodiment, a speaker module (e.g., the speaker module400ofFIG.5) may include a speaker housing420, a speaker component (e.g., the speaker component410ofFIG.5) positioned in an internal space S of the speaker housing420, a vent hole430formed through at least a portion of the speaker housing420, a sound absorbing material440for absorbing sound generated from the speaker component410, and a guide structure450at least partially projecting towards the internal space S and disposed to surround the vent hole430.

The speaker housing420, speaker component410, vent hole430, sound absorbing material440, and guide structure450of the speaker module400shown inFIGS.8and9may be wholly or partially identical in configuration to the speaker housing420, speaker component410, vent hole430, sound absorbing material440, and guide structure450of the speaker module400shown inFIGS.5,6, and7.

In the 2-axis rectangular coordinate system ofFIGS.8and9,7may refer, for example, to the thickness direction of the speaker module400, and ‘Y’ may refer, for example, to the lengthwise direction of the speaker module400. According to an embodiment, ‘Z’ may refer, for example, to a first direction (a +Z axis direction, hereinafter “+Z”) or a second direction (a −Z axis direction, hereinafter “−Z”), and ‘Y’ may refer, for example, to a third direction (a +Y axis direction or a −Y axis direction, hereinafter “+Y” or “−Y”).

According to an embodiment, the vent hole430may be formed through a portion of the lower structure (e.g., the lower structure520ofFIG.5) of the speaker housing420. For example, the vent hole430may be disposed in the second area partitioned from the first area (e.g., the first area S1ofFIG.5) where the speaker component410is disposed and may be formed through at least a portion of the back plate (e.g., the back plate422ofFIG.5) facing in the second direction −Z of the speaker housing420.

According to an embodiment, the vent hole430may include a central axis O and, when viewed from above the back plate422, the vent hole430may look circular. The diameter of the vent hole430may gradually increase in the second direction −Z. For example, the vent hole430may be shaped as a portion of a cone. However, the shape of the vent hole430is not limited thereto. For example, the vent hole430may be shaped as a cylinder or to have its diameter gradually decrease along the second direction.

According to an embodiment, there may be provided sound absorbing material440of particles in the second area S2of the speaker housing420. The diameter of the sound absorbing material440particles may be larger than the diameter of the vent hole430, preventing the sound absorbing material440particles from entering the vent hole430.

Generally, the sound absorbing material440may move around the vent hole430due to the operation of the speaker component410. When moving, the sound absorbing material440may collide with its adjacent area, causing a noise. The movement of the sound absorbing material440may partially block the vent hole430, interfering with air circulation. According to an embodiment, the guide structure450formed around the vent hole430may prevent the sound absorbing material440from collisions, adjacent to the vent hole430. Thus, noise may be suppressed. The guide structure450formed around the vent hole430may allow for stable circulation of the air into the inside of the vent hole430.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure450may include a plurality of protrusions arranged around the vent hole430. For example, the plurality of protrusions may include a first protrusion610and a second protrusion620spaced apart from each other. According to an embodiment, the plurality of protrusions may include a first protrusion610, a second protrusion620, and a third protrusion630spaced apart from each other. According to an embodiment, the plurality of protrusions may include a first protrusion610, a second protrusion620, a third protrusion630, and a fourth protrusion640spaced apart from each other. According to an embodiment, the plurality of protrusions may be formed in the same shape or different shapes. However, the number of the protrusions is not limited thereto, and one or five or more protrusions may be provided.

According to an embodiment, the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620arranged around the vent hole430may be formed on one surface facing in the first direction +Z, project to the internal space S, and be spaced apart from each other.

According to an embodiment, the first protrusion610may include a front surface615facing in the first direction +Z and a plurality of side surfaces facing the internal space S. For example, at least some of the plurality of side surfaces may have different sizes and different shapes. At least a portion of a first-first side surface611of the first protrusion610may be formed in the direction towards the central axis O of the vent hole430. An end of the first-first side surface611may extend to a first-second side surface612, and the other end may extend to a first-third side surface613and be curved. A designated angle between the first-third side surface613and the first-second side surface612around the central axis O of the vent hole430may be formed. For example, the designated angle may be an acute angle. As an example, when viewed from above the back plate422, the first protrusion610may be shaped as a triangle or fan.

According to an embodiment, the second protrusion620spaced apart from the first protrusion610may include a front surface625facing in the first direction +Z and a plurality of side surfaces facing the internal space S. At least a portion of a second-first side surface621of the second protrusion620may be formed in the direction towards the central axis O of the vent hole430. An end of the second-first side surface621may extend to a second-second side surface622, and the other end may extend to a second-third side surface623and be curved. A designated angle between the second-third side surface623and the second-second side surface622around the central axis O of the vent hole430may be formed. For example, the designated angle may be an acute angle. As an example, when viewed from above the back plate422, the second protrusion620may be shaped as a triangle or fan.

According to an embodiment, the first-first side surface611and the second-first side surface612may be spaced apart from each other around the central axis O of the vent hole430. The minimum distance (e.g., a first designated distance (e.g., the first designated distance D1ofFIG.10)) between the first-first side surface611and the second-first side surface612crossing the central axis O of the vent hole430may be smaller than the diameter of the vent hole430.

According to an embodiment, the third protrusion630and the fourth protrusion640may be disposed between the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620. For example, the third protrusion630may be disposed in an area adjacent to the first-second side surface612of the first protrusion610, and the fourth protrusion640may be disposed in an area adjacent to the first-third side surface613of the first protrusion610. At least a portion of a side surface (e.g., the first-second side surface612) of the first protrusion610and at least a portion of the side surface633of the third protrusion630may face each other, and the minimum distance between the two side surfaces612and633may be smaller than the diameter of the sound absorbing material. The description of the structure of the first protrusion610may apply to the third protrusion630and the fourth protrusion640. The description of the arrangement between the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620may apply to the arrangement between the third protrusion630and the fourth protrusion640.

FIG.10is a cross-sectional view illustrating a guide structure and vent hole of an example speaker module according to various embodiments.

The speaker housing420, vent hole430, sound absorbing material440, and guide structure450of the speaker module (e.g., the speaker module400ofFIG.5) shown inFIG.10may be wholly or partially identical in configuration to the speaker housing420, vent hole430, sound absorbing material440, and guide structure450of the speaker module400shown inFIGS.8and9.

In the 2-axis rectangular coordinate system ofFIG.10,7may refer, for example, to the thickness direction of the speaker module400, and ‘Y’ may refer, for example, to the lengthwise direction of the speaker module400. According to an embodiment, ‘Z’ may refer, for example, to a first direction (a +Z axis direction, hereinafter “+Z”) or a second direction (a −Z axis direction, hereinafter “−Z”), and ‘Y’ may refer, for example, to a third direction (a +Y axis direction or a −Y axis direction, hereinafter “+Y” or “−Y”).

According to an embodiment, the vent hole430may be formed through a portion of the lower structure520of the speaker housing420. For example, the vent hole430may be disposed in the second area partitioned from the first area where the speaker component (e.g., the speaker component410ofFIG.5) is disposed and may be formed through at least a portion of the back plate (e.g., the back plate422ofFIG.5) facing in the second direction −Z of the speaker housing420.

According to an embodiment, there may be provided a sound absorbing material440of particles in the second area S2of the speaker housing420.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure450may include a plurality of protrusions arranged around the vent hole430. For example, the plurality of protrusions may include a first protrusion610and a second protrusion620spaced apart from each other, around the central axis O of the vent hole430. The spacing may connect to the vent hole430, providing a path for air circulation.

According to an embodiment, the first-first side surface611of the first protrusion610and the second-first side surface621of the second protrusion620may be disposed to face each other, with the central axis O of the vent hole430disposed therebetween. The first-first side surface611and the second-first side surface621may be spaced apart from each other at, at least, a first designated distance D1. The first designated distance D1may be smaller than the minimum diameter of the vent hole430. As an example, the first designated distance D1may be designed to be smaller than the diameter of the sound absorbing material440particles so as to prevent the sound absorbing material440from directly contacting or colliding with the vent hole430.

According to an embodiment, the length (e.g., height), in the first direction +Z, of the first protrusion610and/or the length (e.g., height), in the first direction +Z, of the second protrusion620may be a second designated distance D2. The second designated distance D2may be designed to be longer than a half of the diameter of the sound absorbing material440particles.

Although the spacing and height of the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620have been limited in the above embodiment, embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto but various design or shape changes may be made thereto so as to prevent collisions between the sound absorbing material440and the vent hole430while enabling efficient air circulation.

FIG.11is a cross-sectional view illustrating a guide structure and vent hole of an example speaker module according to various embodiments.

The speaker housing420, vent hole430, sound absorbing material440, and guide structure450of the speaker module (e.g., the speaker module400ofFIG.5) shown inFIG.10may be wholly or partially identical in configuration to the speaker housing420, vent hole430, sound absorbing material440, and guide structure450of the speaker module400shown inFIGS.8and9.

In the 2-axis rectangular coordinate system ofFIG.11, ‘Z’ may refer, for example, to the thickness direction of the speaker module400, and ‘Y’ may refer, for example, to the lengthwise direction of the speaker module400. According to an embodiment, ‘Z’ may refer, for example, to a first direction (a +Z axis direction, hereinafter “+Z”) or a second direction (a −Z axis direction, hereinafter “−Z”), and ‘Y’ may refer, for example, to a third direction (a +Y axis direction or a −Y axis direction, hereinafter “+Y” or “−Y”).

According to an embodiment, the vent hole430may be formed through a portion of the lower structure520of the speaker housing420. According to an embodiment, sound absorbing materials440of particles may be provided in the second area S2of the speaker housing420.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure450may include at least one protrusion450adisposed around the vent hole430and a blocking member450bdisposed on a front surface facing in the first direction +Z of the at least one protrusion450a.

According to an embodiment, the at least one protrusion450amay be designed to have a height not less than a predetermined thickness around the vent hole430, preventing the sound absorbing material440from directly contacting or colliding with the vent hole430. The blocking member450bmay include a plurality of through holes H and be shaped to correspond to the shape of the front surface of the protrusion450a. The plurality of through holes H may be designed so that a plurality of conduits facing in the direction perpendicular to or parallel with the back plate422spatially connect to the vent hole430, thereby providing efficient air circulation. Each of the plurality of through holes H may be designed to be smaller than the diameter of the sound absorbing material440particles, preventing the sound absorbing material440from blocking the air circulation path of the vent hole430.

According to an embodiment, the blocking member450bmay be formed of or include an elastic member (e.g., at least one of sponge, rubber, polymer (polycarbonate (PC) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET)), silicone, foam, or membrane), minimizing the noise generated when the sound absorbing material440collides with an area of the blocking member450b.

FIG.12is a perspective view illustrating various shapes of a guide structure and vent hole of an example speaker module according to an embodiment.

According to an embodiment, a speaker module (e.g., the speaker module400ofFIG.5) may include a speaker housing420, a vent hole430formed through at least a portion of the speaker housing420, and a guide structure450disposed to surround the vent hole430and at least partially projecting to the internal space S of the speaker housing420.

The speaker module400ofFIG.12may include the configurations of the speaker housing420, vent hole430, and guide structure450, and each configuration may be wholly or partially identical to a respective one of the configurations of the speaker housing420, vent hole430, and guide structure450of the speaker module400ofFIGS.8and9. The following description focuses primarily on the differences.

Referring toFIG.12, to increase the mounting efficiency of the electronic device101and the freedom of internal design in the speaker module400, the vent hole430may be disposed adjacent to the edge of the speaker housing420. The vent hole430formed through an edge portion of the back plate422and the guide structure450disposed therearound may be structurally deformed, in part, by the side surface plate423of the speaker housing420, unlike in the structure ofFIG.9. For example, some protrusions of the guide structure450may be formed as if portions have been cut off by the side surface plate423.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure450may include a plurality of protrusions arranged around the vent hole430. For example, the guide structure450may include a first protrusion610, a second protrusion620, a third protrusion630, and a fourth protrusion640spaced apart from each other.

According to an embodiment, the respective side surface portions of the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620may be disposed to face each other, and the respective side surface portions of the third protrusion630and the fourth protrusion640may be disposed to face each other.

According to an embodiment, the first protrusion610ofFIG.12may be implemented in the same or similar shape to the first protrusion610ofFIG.8. The second protrusion620may include a front surface625facing in the first direction +Z and a plurality of side surfaces facing the internal space S. For example, at least one (e.g., a second-third side surface623) of the plurality of side surfaces may be formed in a shape contacting the side surface plate423(e.g., the inner side surface). According to an embodiment, the second protrusion620may be formed of a rib projecting from the side surface plate423in the third direction −Y.

According to an embodiment, the second protrusion620may be formed to contact the bottom surface of the back plate422of the speaker housing420facing in the first direction +Z and the inner side surface of the side surface plate423of the speaker housing420facing in the third direction −Y which is perpendicular to the first direction +Z.

According to an embodiment, the second protrusion620may extend from an area adjacent to the vent hole430, abutting the side surface plate423. For example, as compared with the first protrusion610, the second protrusion620may be formed as if the shape of the area adjacent to the side surface plate423is cut into by the side surface plate423.

According to an embodiment, the shape of the second protrusion620may apply to the shape of the fourth protrusion640adjacent to the side surface plate423. For example, the fourth protrusion640may include a front surface645facing in the first direction +Z and a plurality of side surfaces facing the internal space S. At least one of the plurality of side surfaces may be formed in a shape contacting the side surface plate423. According to an embodiment, the fourth protrusion640may be formed of a rib projecting from the side surface plate423in the third direction −Y.

FIGS.13,14, and15are perspective views illustrating various shapes of guide structures of an example speaker module according to various embodiments.

According to an embodiment, a speaker module (e.g., the speaker module400ofFIG.5) may include a speaker housing420, a vent hole430formed through at least a portion of the speaker housing420, and a guide structure450disposed to surround the vent hole430and at least partially projecting to the internal space S of the speaker housing420.

The speaker module400ofFIGS.13,4, and15may include the configurations of the speaker housing420, speaker component410, vent hole430, and guide structure450, and each configuration may be wholly or partially identical to a respective one of the configurations of the speaker housing420, speaker component410, vent hole430, and guide structure450of the speaker module400ofFIGS.8and9. The following description focuses primarily on the differences from the guide structure ofFIG.8.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure450may include a plurality of protrusions arranged around the vent hole430. For example, the guide structure450may include a first protrusion610, a second protrusion620, a third protrusion630, and a fourth protrusion640spaced apart from each other.

Referring toFIG.13, the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620arranged around the vent hole430may be formed on one surface facing in the first direction +Z, project to the internal space S, and be spaced apart from each other.

According to an embodiment, the first protrusion610may include a front surface615facing in the first direction +Z and a plurality of side surfaces facing the internal space S. For example, at least some of the plurality of side surfaces may have different sizes and different shapes. At least a portion of a first-first side surface611of the first protrusion610may be formed in the direction towards the central axis O of the vent hole430. An end of the first-first side surface611may extend to a first-second side surface612, and the other end may extend to a first-third side surface613. The front surface615of the first protrusion610may narrow away from the central axis O of the vent hole430. As an example, when viewed from above the back plate422, the first protrusion610ofFIG.13has the left-right inverted shape of the first protrusion610ofFIG.9.

According to an embodiment, the second protrusion620may be disposed to face the first protrusion610with the central axis O of the vent hole430disposed therebetween, and the third protrusion630and the fourth protrusion640may be disposed to face each other with the central axis O of the vent hole430disposed therebetween. The shape of the first protrusion610may apply to the shape of the second protrusion620, third protrusion630, and fourth protrusion640ofFIG.13.

Referring toFIG.14, the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620arranged around the vent hole430may be formed on one surface facing in the first direction +Z, project to the internal space S, and be spaced apart from each other.

According to an embodiment, the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620may be wholly or partially identical in structure to the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620ofFIG.8. The third protrusion630and the fourth protrusion640may be formed in shapes corresponding to each other. The third protrusion630is described below, and the description may apply to the fourth protrusion640.

According to an embodiment, the third protrusion630may be disposed apart between the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620and may include a first surface635facing in the first direction +Z and a plurality of side surfaces facing the internal space S. A third-first side surface631of the third protrusion630may be formed to at least partially face the central axis O of the vent hole430and may be formed as a curved surface corresponding to the shape of the vent hole430. As an example, the other side surfaces632,633, and634than the third-first side surface of the third protrusion630may be formed in directions perpendicular to each other.

According to an embodiment, the third protrusion630may be shaped substantially as a cuboid and, when viewed from above the back plate422, the third protrusion630may look rectangular.

Referring toFIG.15, the first protrusion610, second protrusion620, and fourth protrusion640arranged around the vent hole430may be wholly or partially identical in structure to the first protrusion610, second protrusion620, and fourth protrusion640ofFIG.14.

According to an embodiment, the third protrusion630may be spaced apart between the first protrusion610and the second protrusion620, and the third protrusion630may face the fourth protrusion640and be formed in a different shape. The third protrusion630may include a side surface facing the vent hole430and other side surfaces which are partially curved or flat.

According to various embodiments, various shapes of protrusions included in the guide structure450are shown. However, embodiments of the disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, more protrusions may be formed or various shape changes may be made depending on the internal space S of the speaker module400.

According to an embodiment, a speaker module (e.g.,400ofFIG.5) comprises a speaker housing (e.g.,420ofFIG.5) including a conduit (e.g.,424ofFIG.5) extending to an internal space (e.g., S ofFIG.5), a speaker component410positioned in a first area S1of the internal space adjacent to the conduit, a vent hole (e.g.,430ofFIG.5) spaced apart from the speaker component and passing through at least part of the speaker housing, a sound absorbing material (e.g.,440ofFIG.5) disposed in a second area (S2ofFIG.5) of the internal space to be positioned adjacent to the speaker component to absorb a sound generated from the speaker component, and a guide structure (e.g.,450ofFIG.5) disposed to surround the vent hole and including at least one protrusion (e.g.,450aofFIG.5) protruding towards the internal space.

According to an embodiment, the sound absorbing material may include a plurality of particles and be prevented from contacting the vent hole by the guide structure formed around the vent hole.

According to an embodiment, the vent hole may be formed in the second area of the internal space, partitioned from the first area.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may include a first protrusion (e.g.,610ofFIG.8) and a second protrusion (e.g.,620ofFIG.8) spaced apart from each other. A distance between the first protrusion and the second protrusion crossing a central axis (e.g., O ofFIG.8) of the vent hole may be smaller than a diameter of the sound absorbing material.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may include a first protrusion (e.g.,610ofFIG.8) and a second protrusion (e.g.,630ofFIG.8) disposed adjacent to and apart from each other. A first side surface (e.g., the first-second side surface612ofFIG.8) of the first protrusion may face a second side surface (e.g.,633ofFIG.8) of the second protrusion. A minimum distance between the first side surface and the second side surface may be smaller than a diameter of the sound absorbing material.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may include a first protrusion with a designated thickness. The thickness of the first protrusion may be larger than a half of a diameter of the sound absorbing material.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may further include a third protrusion disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion. The third protrusion may be formed in a different shape than the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure (e.g.,450ofFIG.11) may further include a blocking member (e.g.,450bofFIG.8) disposed on a front surface of the at least one protrusion and including a plurality of through holes (e.g., H ofFIG.11).

According to an embodiment, the plurality of through holes of the blocking member may be formed to face in a direction perpendicular to or parallel with the vent hole. At least some of the plurality of through holes may be connected together and provide an air ventilation path towards the vent hole.

According to an embodiment, the blocking member may include an elastic member.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may further include a fourth protrusion disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion and facing at least one side surface of the third protrusion with the vent hole disposed therebetween.

According to an embodiment, the first protrusion, second protrusion, third protrusion, and fourth protrusion of the guide structure may be formed in shapes corresponding to each other.

According to an embodiment, at least one of the first protrusion, second protrusion, third protrusion, and fourth protrusion of the guide structure may be formed in a shape different from the other protrusions.

According to an embodiment, the first protrusion (e.g.,620ofFIG.12) or second protrusion (e.g.,640ofFIG.12) of the guide structure may be disposed in contact with a bottom surface (e.g., the inner side surface of the back plate422ofFIG.12) facing in a first direction (e.g., +Z ofFIG.12) of the speaker housing and an inner side surface (e.g., the inner side surface of the side surface plate423ofFIG.12) facing in a second direction (e.g., −Y ofFIG.12) perpendicular to the first direction.

According to an embodiment, an electronic device comprises a housing (e.g.,310ofFIG.2or3) including a front plate (e.g.,320ofFIG.4), a back plate (e.g.,380ofFIG.4), and a side surface member (e.g.,331and332ofFIG.4) surrounding a first space between the front plate and the back plate and including a first conduit (e.g.,307ofFIGS.2and3) extending through to an outside, a display (e.g.,330ofFIG.4) configured to output a screen via the front plate, a battery (e.g.,350ofFIG.4) disposed between the display and the back plate, a speaker module (e.g.,400ofFIG.4) disposed in the first space and including a second conduit connected with the first conduit, and a printed circuit board (e.g.,340ofFIG.4) disposed adjacent to the speaker module and electrically connected with the speaker module. The speaker module may include a speaker housing (e.g.,420ofFIG.5) forming a second space (e.g., S ofFIG.5) partitioned from the first space, a speaker component positioned adjacent to the second conduit (e.g.,424ofFIG.5), in a first area (e.g., S1ofFIG.5) of the second space, a vent hole (e.g.,430ofFIG.5) spaced apart from the speaker component and passing through at least part of the speaker housing to the first space, a sound absorbing material (e.g.,440ofFIG.5) disposed in a second area (e.g., S2ofFIG.5) of the second space to be positioned adjacent to the speaker component to absorb a sound generated from the speaker component, and a guide structure (e.g.,450ofFIG.5) disposed to at least partially surround the vent hole and including at least one protrusion (e.g.,450aofFIG.5) protruding towards the second space.

According to an embodiment, the sound absorbing material may include a plurality of particles and be prevented from contacting the vent hole by the guide structure formed around the vent hole.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may be integrally formed with the speaker housing and include an opening formed in a front surface or a side surface and extending to the vent hole.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion spaced apart from each other. A distance between the first protrusion and the second protrusion crossing a central axis of the vent hole may be smaller than a diameter of the sound absorbing material.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion disposed apart from each other. A first side surface of the first protrusion may face a second side surface of the second protrusion. A minimum distance between the first side surface and the second side surface may be smaller than a diameter of the sound absorbing material.

According to an embodiment, the guide structure may further include a third protrusion disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion and a fourth protrusion spaced apart from the third protrusion, with the vent hole disposed therebetween.

As is apparent from the foregoing description, according to various embodiments, the speaker module of the electronic device may secure an efficient mounting space in the electronic device by making design changes to the structure, rather than by use of a separate member, e.g., sponge, which may pose limitations on designing.

According to various embodiments, the speaker module of the electronic device may include a guide structure formed to surround the vent hole, thereby removing noise around the vent hole while achieving smooth air circulation.

According to various embodiments, the speaker module of the electronic device has a guide structure integrally formed with the speaker housing, allowing for cost savings, process simplification, and better sound quality.

While the disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various example embodiments, it will be understood that the various example embodiments are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the true spirit and full scope of the disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. It will also be understood that any of the embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.