KR20210028924A - Fordable electronic device and method for controlling the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a foldable electronic device and a control method therefor. An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device capable of expanding a key area in response to a folded or unfolded state of the foldable electronic device and a control method therefor. An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first housing structure; a second housing structure; and a hinge structure connecting the first housing structure and the second housing structure. The electronic device comprises: a foldable housing which forms the rear surface and the side surfaces of the electronic device while the electronic device is in an unfolded state; a flexible display which is disposed in a space formed by the foldable housing and forms the front surface of the electronic device while the electronic device is in an unfolded state; at least one input part which is positioned on one side surface of the first housing structure and receives a user′s operation; at least one touch sensing area formed on one side surface of the second housing structure and corresponding to the input part while the electronic device is in a folded state; and a processor which is electrically connected to the at least one input part or the at least one touch area. The processor can be configured to: identify whether the electronic device is in the unfolded state or the folded state, activate the touch sensing area on the basis of the identification result, and drive the electronic device in response to the user′s input to the activated touch sensing area or the input part.

Description

Foldable electronic device and its control method {FORDABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME}

Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a foldable electronic device and a control method thereof.

With the development of digital technology, electronic devices are being provided in various forms such as a smart phone, a tablet personal computer (PC), or a personal digital assistant (PDA). Electronic devices are being developed in a portable or wearable form to improve portability and user accessibility.

In recent years, portable electronic devices such as smart phones and tablet PCs are becoming lighter and thinner for ease of portability, and are attempting to develop in various fields for ease of use. In particular, a foldable type electronic device with a flexible display provides a relatively larger screen than a general bar type electronic device. Since it becomes convenient to do so, it is in the spotlight as an electronic device to satisfy consumers' preferences.

In order to secure portability even when the foldable electronic device is folded, the thickness of the foldable electronic device has gradually become thinner in order to secure the user's convenience, since the thickness of the foldable electronic device must be thinner than that of a general electronic device in order to secure portability.

As the thickness of the foldable electronic device decreases, a key area that is formed on one side of the foldable electronic device and receives a user's manipulation input also decreases.

It is common for users to perform key manipulation based on the tactile sensation of the key without accurately confirming the key.As the key area decreases, it is difficult to distinguish the key by the tactile sensation alone when the foldable electronic device is folded. In addition, the frequency of malfunctions in which a key is inputted by the user is increased.

In other words, if the thickness of the existing foldable electronic device decreases, portability may be improved, but there is a limit in that the frequency of malfunctions is increased, so that the thickness of the foldable electronic device can be reduced while preventing the user's erroneous input. A plan is being demanded.

The present disclosure provides an electronic device capable of expanding a key area in response to a folded or unfolded state of a foldable electronic device, thereby overcoming the limitation that occurs as the thickness of the foldable electronic device decreases. I want to.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure includes a first housing structure, a second housing structure, and a hinge structure connecting the first and second housing structures, and the electronic device is unfolded. A foldable housing forming a rear surface and a side surface of the electronic device in a) state, a flexible display disposed in a space formed by the foldable housing, and forming a front surface of the electronic device in an unfolded state of the electronic device, the first At least one input unit located on one side of the housing structure to receive a user's manipulation, and at least one input unit formed on one side of the second housing structure corresponding to the input unit when the electronic device is folded A touch sensing area, and a processor electrically connected to the at least one input unit or the at least one touch area, wherein the processor identifies whether the electronic device is in the folded state or the unfolded state, and the identification result Based on, the touch sensing region may be activated, and the electronic device may be driven in response to the user's input to the activated touch sensing region or the input unit.

A method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure includes, in a method of controlling an electronic device, whether an electronic device including a first housing structure and a second housing structure rotatable by a hinge structure is in a folded state or an unfolded state. An operation of identifying through a sensor unit, based on the identification result, corresponding to at least one input unit formed on one side of the first housing structure, in the folded state of the electronic device, and one side of the second housing structure An operation of activating at least one touch sensing region formed in and driving the electronic device in response to a user's manipulation of the input unit or a user's input to the activated touch sensing region.

The electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may prevent a user from inputting an unintended manipulation by expanding a region in which a user's manipulation can be input based on whether the electronic device is in a folded state or an unfolded state. .

In addition, an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is to improve user convenience by changing a key mapping based on whether the electronic device is in a folded state or an unfolded state.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.
2A is a perspective view illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
2B is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
2C is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to another exemplary embodiment.
3 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
4A is a side view illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
4B is a side view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 4A.
5 is a diagram illustrating an electrical connection relationship between a processor, an input unit, and a touch sensing area of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of controlling the electronic device in response to a folded or unfolded state of the electronic device.
7A is a diagram illustrating a state in which a user's input is input only to a touch sensing area when the electronic device is folded.
7B is a diagram illustrating a state in which a user's input is simultaneously input to an input unit and a touch sensing area when the electronic device is folded.
7C is a diagram illustrating a state in which a user grips the electronic device while the electronic device is in an open state.
8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of controlling an electronic device in response to a folding angle.
9 is a diagram illustrating a state in which an electronic device is used in a table mode according to an exemplary embodiment.
10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of controlling an electronic device based on a folded state of the electronic device.
11A is a perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
11B is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 11A.
12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of switching an input unit function in response to a folded or unfolded state of the electronic device.
13A is a front view illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
13B is a front view showing a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 13A.
14A is a perspective view illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.
14B is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 14A at a predetermined angle.
14C is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 14A.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment 100, the electronic device 101 communicates with the electronic device 102 through a first network 198 (for example, a short-range wireless communication network), or a second network 199 It is possible to communicate with the electronic device 104 or the server 108 through (eg, a long-distance wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 through the server 108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes a processor 120, a memory 130, an input device 150, an audio output device 155, a display device 160, an audio module 170, and a sensor module ( 176, interface 177, haptic module 179, camera module 180, power management module 188, battery 189, communication module 190, subscriber identification module 196, or antenna module 197 ) Can be included. In some embodiments, at least one of these components (for example, the display device 160 or the camera module 180) may be omitted or one or more other components may be added to the electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of these components may be implemented as one integrated circuit. For example, the sensor module 176 (eg, a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented while being embedded in the display device 160 (eg, a display).

The processor 120, for example, executes software (eg, a program 140) to implement at least one other component (eg, a hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 connected to the processor 120. It can be controlled and can perform various data processing or operations. According to an embodiment, as at least part of data processing or operation, the processor 120 may store commands or data received from other components (eg, the sensor module 176 or the communication module 190) to the volatile memory 132 It is loaded into, processes a command or data stored in the volatile memory 132, and stores result data in the nonvolatile memory 134. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 includes a main processor 121 (eg, a central processing unit or an application processor), and a secondary processor 123 (eg, a graphic processing unit, an image signal processor) that can be operated independently or together. , A sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). Additionally or alternatively, the coprocessor 123 may be set to use lower power than the main processor 121 or to be specialized for a designated function. The secondary processor 123 may be implemented separately from the main processor 121 or as a part thereof.

The co-processor 123 is, for example, in place of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (eg, sleep) state, or the main processor 121 is active (eg, executing an application). ) While in the state, together with the main processor 121, at least one of the components of the electronic device 101 (for example, the display device 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190) It is possible to control at least some of the functions or states associated with it. According to an embodiment, the coprocessor 123 (eg, an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of other functionally related components (eg, the camera module 180 or the communication module 190). have.

The memory 130 may store various types of data used by at least one component of the electronic device 101 (eg, the processor 120 or the sensor module 176 ). The data may include, for example, software (eg, the program 140) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory 130 may include a volatile memory 132 or a nonvolatile memory 134.

The program 140 may be stored as software in the memory 130, and may include, for example, an operating system 142, middleware 144, or an application 146.

The input device 150 may receive a command or data to be used for a component of the electronic device 101 (eg, the processor 120) from outside (eg, a user) of the electronic device 101. The input device 150 may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (eg, a stylus pen).

The sound output device 155 may output an sound signal to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output device 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback, and the receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

The display device 160 may visually provide information to the outside of the electronic device 101 (eg, a user). The display device 160 may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to an embodiment, the display device 160 may include a touch circuitry set to sense a touch, or a sensor circuit (eg, a pressure sensor) set to measure the strength of a force generated by the touch. have.

The audio module 170 may convert sound into an electrical signal, or conversely, may convert an electrical signal into sound. According to an embodiment, the audio module 170 acquires sound through the input device 150, the sound output device 155, or an external electronic device (eg: Sound can be output through the electronic device 102) (for example, a speaker or headphones).

The sensor module 176 detects an operating state (eg, power or temperature) of the electronic device 101, or an external environmental state (eg, a user state), and generates an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. can do. According to an embodiment, the sensor module 176 is, 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, It may include a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface 177 may support one or more specified protocols that may be used for the electronic device 101 to connect directly or wirelessly with an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102 ). According to an embodiment, the interface 177 may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

The connection terminal 178 may include a connector through which the electronic device 101 can be physically connected to an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102). According to an embodiment, the connection terminal 178 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (eg, a headphone connector).

The haptic module 179 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (eg, vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that a user can perceive through tactile or motor sensations. According to an embodiment, the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The camera module 180 may capture a still image and a video. According to an embodiment, the camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module 188 may manage power supplied to the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the power management module 388 may be implemented as at least a part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery 189 may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the battery 189 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary cell, a rechargeable secondary cell, or a fuel cell.

The communication module 190 includes a direct (eg, wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device 101 and an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102, the electronic device 104, or the server 108). It is possible to support establishment and communication through the established communication channel. The communication module 190 operates independently of the processor 120 (eg, an application processor) and may include one or more communication processors supporting direct (eg, wired) communication or wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module 190 is a wireless communication module 192 (eg, a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 194 (eg : A local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module) may be included. Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module is a first network 198 (for example, a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi direct or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network 199 (for example, a cellular network, the Internet, or It can communicate with external electronic devices through a computer network (for example, a telecommunication network such as a LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (eg, a single chip), or may be implemented as a plurality of separate components (eg, multiple chips). The wireless communication module 192 uses subscriber information stored in the subscriber identification module 196 (eg, International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) in a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199. The electronic device 101 can be checked and authenticated.

The antenna module 197 may transmit a signal or power to the outside (eg, an external electronic device) or receive from the outside. According to an embodiment, the antenna module may include one antenna including a conductor formed on a substrate (eg, a PCB) or a radiator formed of a conductive pattern. According to an embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include a plurality of antennas. In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199 is, for example, provided by the communication module 190 from the plurality of antennas. Can be chosen. The signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module 190 and an external electronic device through the at least one selected antenna. According to some embodiments, other components (eg, RFIC) other than the radiator may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module 197.

At least some of the components are connected to each other through a communication method (e.g., bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI))) between peripheral devices and signals ( E.g. commands or data) can be exchanged with each other.

According to an embodiment, the command or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 through the server 108 connected to the second network 199. Each of the electronic devices 102 and 104 may be a device of the same or different type as the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, all or part of the operations executed by the electronic device 101 may be executed by one or more of the external electronic devices 102, 104, or 108. For example, when the electronic device 101 needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 101 In addition or in addition, it is possible to request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least part of the service. One or more external electronic devices receiving the request may execute at least a part of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit a result of the execution to the electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 may process the result as it is or additionally and provide it as at least a part of a response to the request. For this, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing technology may be used.

An electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be a device of various types. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (eg, a smart phone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. The electronic device according to the embodiment of the present document is not limited to the above-described devices.

Various embodiments of the present document and terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the corresponding embodiment. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the above items unless clearly indicated otherwise in a related context. In this document, “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B,” “A, B or C,” “at least one of A, B and C,” and “A Each of the phrases such as "at least one of, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding one of the phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish the component from other Order) is not limited. Some (eg, a first) component is referred to as “coupled” or “connected” to another (eg, a second) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively”. When mentioned, it means that any of the above components may be connected to the other components directly (eg by wire), wirelessly, or via a third component.

The term "module" used in this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic blocks, parts, or circuits. The module may be an integrally configured component or a minimum unit of the component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to an embodiment, the module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Various embodiments of the present document include one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (eg, internal memory 136 or external memory 138) that can be read by a machine (eg, electronic device 101). It may be implemented as software (for example, the program 140) including them. For example, the processor (eg, the processor 120) of the device (eg, the electronic device 101) may call and execute at least one command among one or more commands stored from a storage medium. This enables the device to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one command invoked. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. A storage medium that can be read by a device may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here,'non-transitory' only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic wave). It does not distinguish between temporary storage cases.

According to an embodiment, a method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided by being included in a computer program product. Computer program products can be traded between sellers and buyers as commodities. The computer program product is distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g. compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or through an application store (e.g., Play Store??) or two user devices. It can be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) directly or online between (e.g. smartphones) In the case of online distribution, at least a part of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a storage medium that can be read by a device such as a server of a manufacturer, a server of an application store, or a memory of a relay server.

According to various embodiments, each component (eg, module or program) of the above-described components may include a singular number or a plurality of entities. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations among the above-described corresponding components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of constituent elements (eg, a module or program) may be integrated into one constituent element. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each component of the plurality of components in the same or similar to that performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. . According to various embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be sequentially, parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically executed, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted. Or one or more other actions may be added.

2A is a perspective view illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment. 2B is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment. 2C is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to another exemplary embodiment.

2A and 2B, an electronic device 200 (eg, the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1) according to an embodiment includes a foldable housing 210 and a foldable housing 210. A hinge cover 220 covering a portion, a flexible or foldable display 230 disposed in the space formed by the foldable housing 210 (hereinafter, "display" 230) , An input unit 240 positioned on at least one side of the foldable housing 210 and a touch sensing area 250 may be included. In the present disclosure, the surface on which the display 230 is disposed is defined as the first surface or the front surface of the electronic device 200, and the surface facing the opposite direction to the front surface is defined as the second surface or the rear surface of the electronic device 200. . In addition, a surface surrounding the space between the front and rear surfaces is defined as a third surface or a side surface of the electronic device 200.

According to an embodiment, the foldable housing 210 may include a first housing structure 211 and a second housing structure 212, a first rear cover 211a, and a second rear cover 212a. have.

As an example, the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 may be disposed on both sides about a folding axis (A-axis in FIG. 2A), and have a substantially symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis. Can be formed. However, the shapes of the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 are not limited to the above-described shapes, and may be formed in various shapes according to embodiments.

According to an embodiment, the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 may be rotatably coupled by a hinge structure (not shown), and according to the state of the electronic device 200, the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 may be rotatably coupled. The angle between the structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 (hereinafter, referred to as “folding angle”) may vary. As an example, the folding angle between the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 in an unfolded state (or "flat state") of the electronic device 200 as shown in FIG. 2A May be 180˚. As another example, the folding angle between the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 in the folded state of the electronic device 200 as shown in FIG. 2B is 0° to 10° It can be within.

According to an embodiment, the first rear cover 211a and the second rear cover 212a may be disposed on both sides about a folding axis (A axis), and specifically, the first rear cover 211a is a folding axis. It is disposed on one side of the (A axis), and the second rear cover 212a may be disposed on the other side of the folding axis (A axis). According to an embodiment, the first rear cover 211a and the second rear cover 212a may have a generally rectangular shape. The edge of the first rear cover 211a may be wrapped by the first housing structure 211, and the edge of the second rear cover 212a may be wrapped by the second housing structure 212. According to another embodiment, the first rear cover 211a and the first housing structure 211 may be integrally formed, and the second housing structure 212 and the second rear cover 212a may be integrally formed. May be.

As an example, the first rear cover 211a and the second rear cover 212a may have a generally symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis (A-axis). However, camera modules 235 and 236 may be disposed in one area of the first rear cover 211a. That is, the first rear cover 211a and the second rear cover 212a may include a portion having a shape symmetrical to each other and a portion having a shape asymmetrical to each other.

According to an embodiment, the hinge cover 220 is disposed between the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212, and disposed between the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212. It can be formed to cover internal parts. As an example, the hinge cover 220 may cover the hinge structure connecting the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212.

The hinge cover 220 may include a curved surface as an example, and according to the state of the electronic device 200 (eg, a folded state or an unfolded state), the first housing structure 211 and/or the second housing structure It may be covered by a partial area of 212, or may be exposed to the outside. As an example, as shown in FIG. 2A, when the electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover 220 is covered by the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 to prevent the electronic device 200. ) It may not be visible to the outside. As another example, when the electronic device 200 is folded as shown in FIG. 2B, the hinge cover 220 is exposed to the outside between the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212, It can be seen outside the electronic device 200.

According to an embodiment, the display 230 may be disposed on a space formed by the foldable housing 210. As an example, the display 230 may be mounted on a recess formed by the foldable housing 210 and may constitute most of the front surface of the electronic device 200. That is, the front surface of the electronic device 200 may include the display 230 and a partial region of the first housing structure 211 adjacent to the display 230 and a partial region of the second housing structure 212.

The display 230 may mean a flexible display in which at least a portion of the area may be transformed into a flat or curved surface. Referring to FIG. 2A, the display 230 includes a folding area 233, a first area 231 disposed on one side of the folding area 233, and a second area disposed on the other side of the folding area 233. (232) may be included. However, the division of the area of the display 230 shown in FIG. 2A is only exemplary, and according to the embodiment, the area of the display 230 may be divided in a different manner. As an example, as shown in FIG. 2A, the first area 231 and the second area 232 can be divided based on the folding area 233 extending in a direction parallel to the x-axis. However, in another embodiment (not shown), the display 230 includes a first area (not shown) and a second area (not shown) based on a folding area (not shown) extending in a direction parallel to the y-axis. It can also be classified as.

As an example, the first area 231 and the second area 232 may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding area 233. However, a recess or opening may be formed in a partial region of the first region 231, and other electronic components (eg, a camera module 234, a proximity sensor, etc.) may be aligned in the recess or opening. That is, the first region 231 and the second region 232 may include a portion having a shape symmetrical to each other and a portion having a shape asymmetrical to each other.

According to an embodiment, the input unit 240 and the touch sensing area 250 may be formed on one side of the foldable housing 210. As an example, the input unit 240 may be formed on one side of the first housing structure 211, and the touch sensing area 250 is formed on the side of the first housing structure 211 on which the input unit 240 is formed. It may be formed on one side of the second housing structure 211 in the same direction. Although not shown in the drawing, as another example, the input unit 240 is formed on one side of the second housing structure 212, and the touch sensing area 250 is formed on one side of the first housing structure 211. May be.

The input unit 240 is a type of key through which a user's manipulation can be input, and the electronic device 200 may be driven based on a user manipulation of the input unit 240. As an example, the user may adjust the volume of the electronic device 200 or turn the power on/off through the manipulation of the input unit 240, run the camera, or perform voice assistance. ) Function can also be executed.

As an example, the input unit 240 may be formed of a physical key such as a button as shown in the drawing, but according to another embodiment (not shown), the input unit 240 is a touch that recognizes a user's touch. It may be formed as a sensor-type virtual key, a haptic-type virtual key that recognizes and vibrates a user's touch, or a strain gauge-type virtual key that senses pressure. In addition, the input unit 240 may be an embossed key formed protruding from one side of the foldable housing 210, but may be formed in an engraved manner in other embodiments.

The touch sensing area 250 is an area capable of sensing a user's touch, and may be activated or deactivated according to a state of the electronic device 200 (eg, a folded state or an unfolded state). However, a detailed description of this will be described later. As an example, the touch sensing region 250 may be formed on one side of the foldable housing 210 in a manner to increase the sensitivity of a touch circuitry or a sensor circuit mounted inside the electronic device 200. I can. According to another embodiment, the touch sensing area 250 may be formed by mounting a touch sensor (not shown) on one side of the foldable housing 210. As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the touch sensing area 250 may be formed at a position corresponding to the input unit 240 in the folded state of the electronic device 200, and a detailed description thereof will be described later.

Hereinafter, the operation of the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 and each area of the display 230 according to the state of the electronic device 200 (eg, in an open or folded state) will be described. Do it.

According to an embodiment (eg, FIG. 2A), when the electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state, the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 form an angle of 180° and are the same. It can be arranged to face the direction. Due to the arrangement of the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 described above, the surface of the first area 231 and the surface of the second area 232 of the display 230 also form 180° from each other. And, it may face the same direction (for example, the front direction of the electronic device 200). The folding area 233 may form the same plane as the first area 231 and the second area 232.

According to an embodiment (eg, FIG. 2B), when the electronic device 200 is in a folded state, the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 may be disposed in a direction facing each other. I can. The first area 231 and the second area 232 of the display 230 form an angle of 0° to 10° and may face each other. At least a portion of the folding area 233 may be formed as a curved surface having a predetermined curvature.

According to another embodiment (eg, FIG. 2C ), when the electronic device 200 is folded, the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 may be disposed in opposite directions to each other. As an example, the first housing structure 211 may be disposed in a direction toward the front side of the electronic device 200, and the second housing structure 212 may be disposed in a direction toward the rear side of the electronic device 200. have. Accordingly, the first rear cover 211a and the second rear cover 212a may be disposed in a direction facing each other. Due to the arrangement of the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 described above, the first area 231 and the second area 232 of the display 230 may be disposed in opposite directions to each other. As an example, the first area 231 may be disposed to face the front side of the electronic device 200, and the second area 232 may be disposed to face the rear side of the electronic device 200. At least a portion of the folding area 233 may be formed as a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device 200.

3 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 3, an electronic device 200 according to an embodiment includes a display unit 300, a bracket assembly 330, a substrate unit 350, a first housing structure 211, and a second housing structure 212. , May include a first rear cover 211a and a second rear cover 212a. In the present disclosure, the display unit 300 may be referred to as a display module or a display assembly.

The display unit 300 according to an exemplary embodiment may include a display 230 and one or more plates 310 (or layers) on which the display 230 is mounted. According to an embodiment, the plate 310 may be disposed between the display 230 and the bracket assembly 330. A display 230 may be disposed on at least a portion of one surface of the plate 310 (eg, an upper surface with reference to FIG. 3 ), and the plate 310 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the display 230.

The bracket assembly 330 according to the embodiment includes a hinge structure 333 disposed between the first bracket 331, the second bracket 332, the first bracket 331 and the second bracket 332, and an external As viewed from, a hinge cover 220 covering the hinge structure 333, and a wiring member 334 crossing the first bracket 331 and the second bracket 332 (e.g., flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) circuit board).

According to an embodiment, the bracket assembly 330 may be disposed between the plate 310 and the substrate portion 350. For example, the first bracket 331 may be disposed between the first region 231 of the display 230 and the first substrate 351. The second bracket 332 may be disposed between the second region 232 of the display 230 and the second substrate 352.

According to an embodiment, at least a part of the wiring member 334 and the hinge structure 333 may be disposed inside the bracket assembly 330. The wiring member 334 may be disposed in a direction crossing the first bracket 331 and the second bracket 332 (eg, in the x-axis direction). That is, the wiring member 334 is disposed in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (eg, the y-axis or the folding axis A of FIG. 2A) of the folding area 233 of the electronic device 200 (eg, the x-axis direction). Can be.

The substrate portion 350 according to an embodiment includes a first substrate 351 disposed on the first bracket 331 side and a second substrate 352 disposed on the second bracket 332 side, as described above. It may include. As an example, the first substrate 351 and the second substrate 352 may include a bracket assembly 330, a first housing structure 211, a second housing structure 212, a first rear cover 211a and a second It may be disposed inside the space formed by the rear cover 212a. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device 200 (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1) may be mounted on the first substrate 351 and the second substrate 352.

The first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 may be assembled to each other so as to be coupled to both sides of the bracket assembly 330 while the display unit 300 is coupled to the bracket assembly 330. As an example, the first housing structure 211 and the second housing structure 212 may slide on both sides of the bracket assembly 330 to be coupled to the bracket assembly 330.

According to an embodiment, the first housing structure 211 may include a first rotation support surface 213, and the second housing structure 212 is a second rotation corresponding to the first rotation support surface 213. It may include a support surface 214. The first rotation support surface 213 and the second rotation support surface 214 may include curved surfaces corresponding to the curved surfaces included in the hinge cover 220.

The first rotation support surface 213 and the second rotation support surface 214 cover the hinge cover 220 when the electronic device 200 is unfolded (for example, the electronic device of FIG. 2A ). The 220 may not be exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device 200 or may be exposed to a minimum. Conversely, the first rotation support surface 213 and the second rotation support surface 214 are curved surfaces included in the hinge cover 220 when the electronic device 200 is folded (for example, the electronic device of FIG. 2B ). The hinge cover 220 may be exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device 200 as much as possible by rotating along the line.

4A is a side view illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4B is a side view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 4A.

4A and 4B, an electronic device 400 according to an exemplary embodiment includes a first housing structure 411, a second housing structure 412, a first housing structure 411 and a second housing structure 412. ) A hinge structure 421 rotatably connected to each other, a hinge cover 420 covering the hinge structure 421, and an input unit 440 formed on one side of the foldable housing 410 and a touch sensing region ( 450). At least one of the constituent elements of the electronic device 400 may be the same as or similar to at least one of the constituent elements of the electronic device 200 of FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, or 3. Hereinafter, a duplicate description will be It should be omitted.

According to an embodiment, the input unit 440 includes a first input unit 441 configured to execute a first function according to a user's manipulation, and a second input unit 441 configured to execute a second function different from the first function according to a user's manipulation. It may include an input unit 442. As an example, the first input unit 441 may increase the volume of the electronic device 400 in response to a user's manipulation, and conversely, the second input unit 442 may increase the volume of the electronic device 400 in response to a user’s manipulation. Can be lowered. As another example, the first input unit 441 may execute a camera in response to a user's manipulation, and the second input unit 442 may execute a voice assistance function.

According to an embodiment, the touch sensing region 450 is a first touch sensing region 451 formed in a region corresponding to the first input unit 441 when the electronic device 400 is folded (eg, FIG. 4B ). And a second touch sensing area 452 formed in an area corresponding to the second input unit 442 when the electronic device 400 is folded. The first touch sensing region 451 and the second touch sensing region 452 are formed at positions corresponding to the first input unit 441 and the second input unit 442, respectively, when the electronic device 400 is folded. The area in which the manipulation of can be recognized can be substantially expanded, and a detailed description thereof will be described later.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 400 is folded, the first touch sensing region 451 and the first touch sensing region 451 may be formed so that the first touch sensing region 451 may be formed in the region corresponding to the first input unit 441. 1 The input unit 441 may be formed at a position spaced apart from the hinge structure 421 by the same distance. Referring to FIG. 4A, the distance between the first input unit 441 and the hinge structure 421 formed in the first housing structure 411 may be L1, and a first touch sensing region formed in the second housing structure 412 ( The distance between the hinge structure 451 and the hinge structure 421 may also be L1.

Similarly, when the electronic device 400 is folded, the second touch sensing region 452 and the second input unit 452 may be formed so that the second touch sensing region 452 may be formed in the region corresponding to the second input unit 442. The 442 may be formed at a position spaced apart from the hinge structure 421 by the same distance L2. That is, the distance between the second input unit 442 formed in the first housing structure 411 and the hinge structure 421 may be L2, and the second touch sensing region 452 formed in the second housing structure 412 and the hinge The distance between the structures 421 may also be L2.

Referring to FIG. 4B, when the electronic device 400 is in a folded state, the first input unit 441 and the first touch sensing area 451 are a virtual center line ML formed when the electronic device 400 is folded. It may be formed in a symmetrical shape based on. As an example, the first input unit 441 may be disposed on one side of the first housing structure 411 while forming an angle α (eg, 0° to 5°) with the virtual center line ML. , The first touch sensing area 451 may be disposed on one side of the second housing structure 412 while forming an angle α equal to the angle with the virtual center line ML. Similarly, the second input unit 442 and the second touch sensing area 452 may also be formed in a shape symmetrical with respect to the virtual center line ML.

5 is a diagram illustrating an electrical connection relationship between a processor, an input unit, and a touch sensing area of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 500 includes a foldable housing 510, an input unit 540 formed on one side of the foldable housing 510 and a touch sensing area 550, and the electronic device 500. It may include a mounted processor 560 and a sensor unit 570. At least one of the components of the electronic device 500 is the same as at least one of the components of the electronic device 200 of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C or the electronic device 400 of FIGS. 4A and 4B. Alternatively, they may be similar, and overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

According to an embodiment, the processor 560 (for example, the processor 120 of FIG. 1) is electrically or operatively connected to the input unit 540, the touch sensing area 550, and the sensor unit 570, The elements may be controlled or the electronic device 500 may be driven by receiving electrical signals from the elements. As an example, the processor 560 may receive an electrical signal from the input unit 540 to adjust the volume of the electronic device 500 or execute an application.

According to an embodiment, the sensor unit 570 is mounted inside the electronic device 500 to identify a state of the electronic device 500 (eg, a folded state or an unfolded state). 1 Identify the folding angle between the housing structure (e.g., the first housing structure 411 in FIGS. 4A and 4B) and the second housing structure (e.g., the second housing structure 412 in FIGS. 4A and 4B) You may.

The sensor unit 570 may include at least one of a hall sensor (hall IC), a digital hall sensor (digital hall IC), a gyro sensor, a six axis sensor, a rotary encoder sensor, and a stretch sensor. have. As an example, the sensor unit 570 may include a Hall sensor mounted on the first housing structure and/or the second housing structure to identify whether the electronic device 500 is in a folded state or an unfolded state. As another example, the sensor unit 570 may include a rotary sensor attached to a hinge structure (eg, the hinge structure 421 of FIG. 4A) to identify a folding angle between the first housing structure and the second housing structure. . As another example, the sensor unit 570 includes a stretch sensor attached to the rear surface of the electronic device 500 corresponding to the folding area (eg, the folding area 233 in FIG. 2A ), Based on the folding angle between the first housing structure and the second housing structure may be identified.

According to an embodiment, the processor 560 may identify the state of the electronic device 500 or the folding angle by receiving the sensing value of the sensor unit 570, and the touch sensing area 550 based on the identified result. Can be activated or deactivated. As an example, when the electronic device is identified as a folded state, the processor 560 may activate the touch sensing area 550, and a detailed description thereof will be described later.

6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of controlling the electronic device in response to a folded or unfolded state of the electronic device.

7A is a diagram illustrating a state in which a user's input is input only to the touch sensing area when the electronic device is folded, and FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating a state in which the user's input is simultaneously input to the input unit and the touch sensing area when the electronic device is folded Fig. 7C is a diagram illustrating a state in which a user grips the electronic device while the electronic device is unfolded.

In describing the operation of controlling the electronic device of FIG. 6, it will be described with reference to the configurations of FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C.

Referring to FIG. 6, in operation 601, a processor (eg, the processor 560 of FIG. 5) of the electronic device 700 (eg, the electronic device 500 of FIG. 5) according to an embodiment It is possible to identify whether the state of 700) is a folded state or an unfolded state. Specifically, the processor may identify (or determine) whether the electronic device 700 is currently in a folded state or an unfolded state, based on a sensing value of the sensor unit (eg, the sensor unit 570 in FIG. 5 ). .

In operation 602 according to an embodiment, the processor includes the touch sensing regions 751 and 752 (eg, the first touch sensing region 451 and the second touch sensing region 452 in FIG. 4A) based on the identification result in operation 601. )) can be activated. As an example, on one side of the first housing structure 711 (eg, the first housing structure 411 in FIG. 4A ), a first input unit 741 (eg, the first input unit 441 in FIG. 4A) and a 2 The input unit 742 (for example, the second input unit 442 of FIG. 4A) may be formed, and when the electronic device 700 is folded, the first input unit 741 and the second input unit 742 are A first touch sensing region 751 and a second touch sensing region 752 may be formed on one side of the second housing structure 712 (eg, the second housing structure 412 in FIG. 4A ).

Referring to FIG. 7A, when the electronic device 700 is in a folded state, the first touch sensing region 751 may be formed at a position corresponding to the first input unit 741, and the second touch sensing region ( 752) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second input unit 742. In the drawing, a first input unit 741 and a second input unit 742, and a first touch sensing region 751 and a second touch sensing region 752 corresponding to the first input unit 741 and the second input unit 742 are shown. ) Is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. According to an exemplary embodiment, a third input unit, a fourth input unit, a third touch sensing region, and a fourth touch sensing region may be additionally formed.

When the electronic device is identified as being folded in operation 601, the processor activates the first touch sensing region 751 and the second touch sensing region 752 to recognize a user's input (or manipulation). Can be expanded, and a detailed description thereof will be described later.

According to an embodiment, in operation 603, the processor may input (or manipulate) the input units 741 and 742 or the touch sensing regions 751 and 752 activated in operation 602 when the electronic device 700 is folded. In response to ), driving of the electronic device 700 may be controlled. According to an embodiment, when a user's input is detected in the first touch sensing area 751, the processor drives the electronic device 700 in the same manner as the first input unit 741 detects the user's input. Can be controlled. Similarly, when a user's input is detected in the second touch sensing area 752, the processor controls the driving of the electronic device 700 in the same manner as the user's input is sensed in the second input unit 742. I can. In the present disclosure, the user's input may include a touch operation, and may include a swiping operation according to embodiments.

As an example, the first input unit 741 is set to increase the volume of the electronic device 700 in response to a user's input, and the second input unit 742 is set to decrease the volume of the electronic device 700. I can. When the user's input to the first touch sensing area 751 is detected while the electronic device 700 is folded, the electronic device 700 is the same as when the user's input is sensed in the first input unit 741. Can increase the volume of. Conversely, when a user's input to the second touch sensing area 752 is detected while the electronic device 700 is folded, the electronic device ( 700) can be lowered. That is, the electronic device 700 according to an embodiment may substantially expand the area of the first input unit 741 through the first touch sensing area 751 when the electronic device 700 is in a folded state, An area of the second input unit 742 may be substantially expanded through the second touch sensing area 752. Accordingly, even when the thickness of the electronic device 700 according to an exemplary embodiment becomes thinner, an area capable of detecting a user's input may be maintained, thereby minimizing the occurrence of a malfunction of the electronic device 700.

Hereinafter, in operation 603 with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7B, the processor controls the driving of the electronic device 700 in response to a user's input to the input units 741 and 742 or the touch sensing regions 751 and 752. Let's look at the operation.

Referring to FIG. 7A, when a user touches a first touch sensing region 751 and a user's input is sensed in the first touch sensing region 751, the processor transmits the user's input to the first input unit 741. In the same manner as detected, the driving of the electronic device 700 may be controlled. As an example, the first input unit 741 may be set to execute a camera application in response to a user's input. When a user's input is sensed in the first touch sensing area 751, the processor may execute the camera application in the same manner as the user's input input to the first input unit 741.

According to various embodiments, there may be a case in which a user's input is simultaneously sensed in the input units 741 and 742 and the touch sensing areas 751 and 752. Although not shown in the drawing, when a user's input to the first input unit 741 and the first touch sensing area 751 is detected, the processor executes a function set in the first input unit 741 (for example, a camera application is executed). , The electronic device 700 may be controlled to perform power on/off. Similarly, when a user's input to the second input unit 742 and the second touch sensing area 752 is detected, the processor controls the electronic device 700 to execute a function set in the second input unit 742. can do.

According to various embodiments, a user's input may be simultaneously sensed in an input unit and a touch sensing area that does not correspond to the input unit. As an example, a user's input may be simultaneously sensed in the first input unit 741 and the second touch sensing area 752, and as another example (eg, FIG. 7B), the second input unit 742 and the first touch are sensed. There may be a case in which a user's input is simultaneously detected in the area 751.

According to an embodiment, when a user's input is simultaneously sensed in an input unit and a touch sensing region (for example, the first touch sensing region 751) not corresponding to the input unit (for example, the second input unit 742). , By prioritizing the user's input to the input unit, the driving of the electronic device 700 may be controlled.

Referring to FIG. 7B, when a user's input to the second input unit 742 and the first touch sensing area 751 are simultaneously sensed, the processor prioritizes the user's input to the second input unit 742, Driving of the electronic device 700 may be controlled so that a function set in the input unit 742 is performed. As an example, the first input unit 741 is set to execute a voice assistance function in response to a user's input, and the second input unit 742 is set to execute a camera application, and the second input unit 742 When a user's input to and to the first touch sensing area 751 is sensed at the same time, the processor may execute the camera application by prioritizing the user's input to the second input unit 742.

According to another embodiment, the processor detects a user's input at the same time in an input unit (eg, the second input unit 742) and a touch detection area (eg, the first touch detection area 751) not corresponding to the input unit. In this case, driving of the electronic device 700 may be controlled by prioritizing the user's input to the touch sensing area. As an example, the first input unit 741 is set to execute a voice assistance function in response to a user's input, and the second input unit 742 is set to execute a camera application, and the second input unit 742 When a user's input to and to the first touch sensing region 751 is sensed at the same time, the processor may execute the voice assistance function by prioritizing the user's input to the first touch sensing region 751.

According to various embodiments, when a user's input is simultaneously sensed in an input unit and a touch sensing region (for example, the first touch sensing region 751) not corresponding to the input unit (for example, the second input unit 742), the processor Depending on the type (eg, virtual key, physical key) of the input units 741 and 742 formed in the electronic device 700, the input to the input unit may be prioritized or the input to the touch sensing area may be prioritized.

According to an embodiment, when the input units 741 and 742 are formed of a physical key such as a button, the processor may control driving of the electronic device 700 by prioritizing the input to the input units 741 and 742. According to another embodiment, when the input units 741 and 742 are formed of a virtual key that senses an input through haptic or pressure, the processor prioritizes inputs to the touch sensing areas 751 and 752, 700) can also be controlled. However, it is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the processor may prioritize the input to the touch sensing areas 751 and 752 even when the input units 741 and 742 are formed of physical keys according to the embodiment, and conversely, the input unit Even when (741, 742) is formed as a virtual key, the input to the input unit (741, 742) may be prioritized.

Referring to FIG. 7C, the processor according to an embodiment does not activate (deactivate) the touch sensing regions 751 and 752 when it is identified that the electronic device 700 is in the open state in operation 601, and the touch The sensing areas 751 and 752 may be used to check whether the user grips the electronic device 700. That is, the processor may utilize the touch sensing regions 751 and 752 as grip sensors in the unfolded state of the electronic device 700. As an example (refer to FIG. 7C ), when the user's hand contacts the first touch sensing area 751, the processor may determine that the user is enclosing the electronic device 700.

8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of controlling an electronic device in response to a folding angle. 9 is a diagram illustrating a state in which an electronic device is used in a table mode according to an exemplary embodiment.

In describing the operation of controlling the electronic device of FIG. 8, it will be described with reference to the configuration of FIG. 9.

Referring to FIG. 8, in operation 801, a processor (eg, the processor 560 of FIG. 5) of the electronic device 900 (eg, the electronic device 500 of FIG. 5) according to an embodiment has a first housing structure. The folding angle (θ, folding angle) between (911) (for example, the first housing structure 411 in FIG. 4A) and the second housing structure 912 (for example, the second housing structure 412 in FIG. 4A) Can be identified. According to an embodiment, the sensor unit (eg, the sensor unit 570 of FIG. 5) may include at least one of a digital hall sensor, a gyro sensor, a six axis sensor, a rotary sensor, and a stretch sensor, The processor may identify the folding angle θ based on the sensing value of the sensor unit.

In operation 802, the processor according to an embodiment, when the folding angle identified in operation 801 is within a specified angle range, the touch sensing regions 951 and 952 (for example, the first touch sensing region 451 of FIG. 4A, The second touch sensing area 452 may be activated. That is, when the folding angle θ between the first housing structure 911 and the second housing structure 912 falls within a specified angle range, the processor 900 is currently in a table mode. It is determined that it is determined that the touch sensing regions 951 and 952 are activated to improve user convenience.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 900 is in a table mode state, the second housing structure 912 may be in contact with the ground, and the first housing structure 911 may be spaced apart from the ground at a certain angle. . When the electronic device 900 is in the table mode, when a user manipulates the first input unit 941 or the second input unit 942 formed on one side of the first housing structure 911, the electronic device 900 There may be a case where the device 900 passes back. As described above, when the electronic device 900 passes backward, the second housing structure 912 is separated from the ground, so that the electronic device 900 cannot be fixed to the ground, which may cause inconvenience to the user. have. The processor of the electronic device 900 according to an embodiment includes a first touch sensing area 951 and a second touch formed on one side of the second housing structure 912 when the electronic device 900 is in a table mode. By activating the sensing region 952, the user may control the driving of the electronic device 900 through the first touch sensing region 951 and/or the second touch sensing region 952.

As an example, when the folding angle between the first housing structure 911 and the second housing structure 912 is within a range of 10° to 170°, the processor may determine that the electronic device 900 is in the current table mode. However, it is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, when the folding angle is 0° to 10°, the processor may determine that the electronic device 900 is in a folded state (eg, the electronic device of FIG. 7A), and the folding angle is 170° to In the case of 180°, the processor may determine that the electronic device 900 is in an unfolded state (eg, the electronic device of FIG. 4A ).

In operation 803, the processor according to an embodiment, in response to a user's input to the input units 941 and 942 or the touch sensing regions 951 and 952 activated in operation 802, drives the electronic device 900. Can be controlled. As an example, when a user's input (or manipulation) is detected by the first input unit 941, the processor may control the electronic device 900 to perform a function set in the first input unit 941.

As another example, as shown in FIG. 9, when a user's input is detected in the first touch sensing region 951, the processor is set in the first input unit 941 corresponding to the first touch sensing region 951. The electronic device 900 may be controlled to perform a function. When the first input unit 941 is set to execute the camera application according to the user's manipulation, the processor may execute the camera application in response to the user's input sensed in the first touch sensing area 951. Similarly, when a user's input is detected in the second touch sensing region 952, the processor performs a function set in the second input unit 942 corresponding to the second touch sensing region 952 ( 900) can also be controlled.

10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of controlling an electronic device based on a folded state of the electronic device.

Referring to FIG. 10, an operation of controlling an electronic device (eg, the electronic device 700 of FIG. 7A or the electronic device 900 of FIG. 9) according to the state of the electronic device will be described.

In operation 1001, a processor (eg, the processor 560 of FIG. 5) of the electronic device (eg, the electronic device 500 of FIG. 5) according to an embodiment )), the current state of the electronic device may be identified. That is, based on the sensing value of the sensor unit, the processor determines whether the electronic device is currently in an open state (eg, the electronic device of FIG. 4A), a folded state (eg, the electronic device of FIG. 4B), or a table mode state (eg, the electronic device of FIG. 9).

When it is identified in operation 1001 that the electronic device is currently in a folded state, in operation 1002, the processor according to an embodiment activates a touch sensing area formed at a position corresponding to the input unit in the folded state of the electronic device to input the user. A region capable of detecting a (hereinafter referred to as “input sensing region”) may be expanded.

In operation 1003, the processor of the electronic device according to an embodiment may detect a user's input to the input detection area extended by the operation 1002, and control driving of the electronic device in response to the detection result. As an example, the processor includes a first input unit (eg, the first input unit 741 in FIG. 7A) and/or a first touch sensing area corresponding to the first input unit (eg, the first touch sensing area ( 751)), it is possible to control the driving of the electronic device to perform a function set in the first input unit. When it is identified that the electronic device is not in a folded state in operation 1001, operation 1004 In the processor according to an embodiment, the folding angle between the first housing structure (eg, the first housing structure 911 in FIG. 9) and the second housing structure (eg, the second housing structure 912 in FIG. 9) It is possible to identify whether (folding angle) is within the specified angle range.

In operation 1004, when the folding angle between the first housing structure and the second housing structure (for example, θ in FIG. 9) is identified as falling within the specified angle range, in operation 1005, the processor according to the embodiment may include the electronic device. It is determined that it is in the current table mode state and activates the touch sensing region (for example, the first touch sensing region 751 and the second touch sensing region 752 in FIG. 7A) to activate the input unit (for example, the first input unit (FIG. 7A )). 741) and the second input unit 742, as well as through the touch sensing area, a user's input may be sensed.

In operation 1006, the processor according to an embodiment may detect a user's input to an input unit or a touch sensing area activated in operation 1005, and control driving of the electronic device based on the user's input. As an example, a user's input to a first touch detection area (eg, the first touch detection area 751 of FIG. 7A) corresponding to the first input unit (eg, the first input unit 741 in FIG. 7A) is detected If so, the processor may control driving of the electronic device to perform a function set in the first input unit.

In operation 1004, when it is identified that the folding angle between the first housing structure and the second housing structure is out of the specified angle range (eg, when the folding angle is 180°), in operation 1007, the processor according to an embodiment The electronic device may determine that it is currently in the open state, and may not activate the touch sensing area. As an example, the processor may deactivate the touch sensing region and use the touch sensing region as a grip sensor. The processor may determine whether the user grips the electronic device (eg, see FIG. 7C) by using the touch sensing area.

That is, in response to the state of the electronic device, the processor of the electronic device according to an embodiment activates the touch sensing region to expand the region capable of detecting a user's input, or deactivates the touch sensing region. Through this, it is possible to determine whether the user grips the electronic device.

11A is a perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment. 11B is a perspective view showing a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 11A.

11A and 11B, an electronic device 1100 according to an embodiment includes a fingerprint sensor 1160 and an electronic device formed on one side of the second housing structure 1122 (or the first housing structure 1121). The device 1100 includes a third touch sensing region 1170 formed on one side of the first housing structure 1121 (or the second housing structure 1122) corresponding to the fingerprint sensor 1160 in a folded state. can do.

According to an embodiment, an input unit 1140 (for example, the input unit 240 of FIG. 2A) may be formed on one side of the first housing structure 1121, and the input unit ( A touch sensing region 1150 (eg, the touch sensing region 250 of FIG. 2A) may be formed on one side of the second housing structure 1122 corresponding to 1140.

According to an embodiment (for example, see FIG. 11A or 11B), the fingerprint sensor 1160 is formed on one side of the second housing structure 1122 in which the touch sensing region 1150 is formed, and the third touch The sensing area 1170 may be formed on one side of the first housing structure 1121 corresponding to the fingerprint sensor 1160 when the electronic device 1100 is folded.

According to another embodiment (not shown), the fingerprint sensor 1160 is the other side of the second housing structure 1122 perpendicular to one side of the second housing structure 1122 on which the touch sensing area 1150 is formed. Can be formed in The third touch sensing area 1170 may be formed on one side of the first housing structure 1121 corresponding to the fingerprint sensor 1160 when the electronic device 1100 is folded.

According to another embodiment (not shown), the fingerprint sensor 1160 is formed on one side of the first housing structure 1121 on which the input unit 1140 is formed, and the third touch sensing area 1170 is an electronic device. In the folded state 1100 may be formed on one side of the second housing structure 1122 corresponding to the fingerprint sensor 1160.

The fingerprint sensor 1160 and the third touch sensing area 1170 according to an exemplary embodiment may be disposed at a position symmetrical with respect to a virtual center line ML' formed when the electronic device 1100 is folded. . When the electronic device 1100 is folded, the fingerprint sensor 1160 and the third touch sensing area 1170 may be parallel to each other, and the distance between the fingerprint sensor 1160 and the virtual center line ML′ and the third The distance between the touch sensing area 1170 and the virtual center line ML' may be the same.

When the thickness of the electronic device 1100 decreases to secure user convenience, the area of the fingerprint sensor 1160 gradually decreases. In general, the fingerprint recognition rate of the fingerprint sensor 1160 decreases as the area of the fingerprint sensor 1160 decreases. The electronic device 1100 according to an exemplary embodiment forms a third touch sensing area 1170 at a position corresponding to the fingerprint sensor 1160 in a folded state of the electronic device 1100, thereby forming the area of the fingerprint sensor 1160. Even if this decreases, the recognition rate of the fingerprint sensor 1160 can be maintained.

As an example, when the electronic device 1100 is in a folded state, the processor (for example, the processor 560 of FIG. 5) activates the third touch sensing region 1170 and activates the third touch sensing region 1170. ), it is possible to identify whether the user is touching an area adjacent to the fingerprint sensor 1160. When the area of the fingerprint sensor 1160 is reduced, it may be difficult to identify the presence or absence of a user's touch. The electronic device 1100 according to an embodiment may detect whether a user touches a user through the third touch detection area 1170 and recognize a user's fingerprint through the fingerprint sensor 1160 according to whether the touch is detected. The recognition rate of the fingerprint sensor 1160 may be improved.

Although not shown in the drawings, in the electronic device 1100 according to an exemplary embodiment, in the electronic device 1100 in a folded state, a third device is provided on one side of the first housing structure 1121 corresponding to the fingerprint sensor 1160. A second fingerprint sensor (not shown) may be formed instead of the touch sensing area 1170. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 1100 may increase a fingerprint recognition rate by expanding a region capable of recognizing a user's fingerprint through the second fingerprint sensor.

12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of switching an input unit function in response to a folded or unfolded state of the electronic device.

13A is a front view illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment. 13B is a front view showing a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 13A.

In describing the operation of switching the function of the input unit of FIG. 12, it will be described with reference to the configurations of FIGS. 13A and 13B.

Referring to FIG. 12, in operation 1201, a processor of an electronic device 1300 (eg, the electronic device 500 of FIG. 5 or the electronic device 700 of FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C) according to an embodiment. (For example, the processor 560 of FIG. 5) may identify whether the electronic device 1300 is currently folded based on a sensing value of the sensor unit (eg, the sensor unit 570 of FIG. 5).

When the electronic device 1300 is identified in the folded state in operation 1201 (for example, the electronic device 1300 in FIG. 13B), in operation 1202, the processor according to an embodiment includes the input units 1321 and 1322 (eg, FIG. Functions set in the first input unit 741 and the second input unit 742 of 7a may be switched.

As an example, the input unit may include a first input unit 1321 set to perform a first function and a second input unit 1322 set to perform a second function different from the first function in response to a user's manipulation. have. 13A, when the electronic device 1300 is in an open state, the first input unit 1321 may be positioned above the second input unit 1322. On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 13B, when the electronic device 1300 is folded, the first input unit 1321 may be positioned under the second input unit 1322.

In operation 1202, when the electronic device is identified in the folded state in operation 1201, the processor may switch the functions set in the first input unit 1321 and the second input unit 1322 to allow user manipulation. Correspondingly, the first input unit 1321 set to perform the first function may change the mapping to perform the second function. Conversely, in response to a user's manipulation, the second input unit 1322, which has been set to perform the second function, may change the mapping to perform the first function.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 1300 is unfolded, the first input unit 1321 is set to increase the volume of the electronic device 1300 in response to a user's manipulation, and the second input unit 1322 is an electronic device. It may be set to lower the volume of 1300. Accordingly, the user can manipulate the first input unit 1321 to increase the volume of the image played on the display 1330 of the electronic device 1300 (for example, the display 230 of FIG. 2A ), and conversely, the second input unit. By operating 1322, the volume of the image played on the display 1330 may be lowered.

When it is identified that the electronic device 1300 is currently in the folded state, the processor changes the setting of the first input unit 1321 to lower the volume of the electronic device 1300 in response to a user's manipulation, and the second The setting of the input unit 1322 may be changed to increase the volume of the electronic device 1300 in response to a user's manipulation. Accordingly, the user can increase the volume of the image reproduced on the sub-display 1330a of the electronic device 1300 by manipulating the second input unit 1322, and conversely, the first input unit 1321 to manipulate the sub-display ( The image of the video played in 1330a) may be lowered. That is, the electronic device 1300 according to an embodiment converts the mapping of the input units 1321 and 1322 in consideration of a change in the position of the input units 1321 and 1322 generated when the electronic device 1300 is folded, Can improve the convenience of the product.

14A is a perspective view illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment. 14B is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 14A at a predetermined angle. 14C is a perspective view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device of FIG. 14A.

14A, 14B, and 14C, an electronic device 1400 according to an embodiment includes a first housing structure 1411 (eg, a first housing structure 211 in FIG. 2A) and a second housing structure. (1412) (e.g., the second housing structure 212 of FIG. 2A), a hinge structure that rotatably connects the first housing structure 1411 and the second housing structure 1412 (e.g., the hinge structure of FIG. 4A ( 421), a display 1430, and a plurality of touch sensing regions 1441, 1442, 1451, and 1452 formed on one side of the first housing structure 1411 and/or the second housing structure 1412. I can. At least one of the components of the electronic device 1400 of FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C is the electronic device 200 of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C or the electronic device 400 of FIGS. 4A and 4B. ) May be the same as or similar to at least one of the constituent elements, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

According to an embodiment, the plurality of touch sensing regions may include a first touch sensing region 1441, a second touch sensing region 1442, a third touch sensing region 1451, and a fourth touch sensing region 1452. I can. As an example, the first touch sensing region 1441 and the second touch sensing region 1442 may be formed on one side of the first housing structure 1411. The third touch sensing region 1451 may be formed on one side of the second housing structure 1412 corresponding to the first touch sensing region 1441 in the folded state of the electronic device 1400 (for example, FIG. 14C ). The fourth touch sensing region 1452 may be formed on one side of the second housing structure 1412 corresponding to the second touch sensing region 1442 in the folded state of the electronic device 1400.

14A, 14B, and 14C, the first touch sensing area 1441, the second touch sensing area 1442, the third touch sensing area 1451, and the fourth touch sensing area 1452 are in a planar shape. Although formed, the present invention is not limited thereto, and according to an embodiment, the first touch detection area 1442, the second touch detection area 1442, the third touch detection area 1451, and the fourth touch detection area 1452 are It may be formed in an embossed or engraved shape. According to another embodiment, the first housing structure 1411 in which the first touch sensing region 1451, the second touch sensing region 1442, the third touch sensing region 1451, and the fourth touch sensing region 1452 are formed. ) Or on one area of the second housing structure 1412, an identifier (for example, an arrow) is formed to provide the user with the first touch detection area 1441, the second touch detection area 1442, and the third touch detection area ( 1451) and the location of the fourth touch sensing area 1452 may be notified.

According to various embodiments, the first touch sensing region 1451, the second touch sensing region 1442, the third touch sensing region 1451, and the fourth touch sensing region 1452 are formed of a touch sensor type virtual key. However, it may be formed as a haptic type virtual key that recognizes a user's touch and vibrates, or a strain gauge type virtual key that senses pressure.

Referring to FIG. 14A, when the electronic device 1400 is in an unfolded state, the first touch sensing region 1451 and the second touch sensing region 1442 of the electronic device 1400 according to an exemplary embodiment are activated. A user's input to the touch sensing region 1451 and/or the second touch sensing region 1442 may be sensed. In this case, the first touch sensing region 1442 may be set to perform a first function (eg, increasing the volume of an electronic device) in response to a user's input, and the second touch sensing region 1442 is a user It may be set to perform a second function (eg, lowering the volume of the electronic device) in response to an input of. On the other hand, the third touch sensing region 1451 and the fourth touch sensing region 1452 are deactivated or activated as a grip sensor to detect the third touch sensing region 1451 and the fourth touch according to the embodiment. Whether or not the user holds the electronic device 1400 through the area 1452 may be checked. According to an embodiment, a graphic user interface (GUI) (for example, an arrow) capable of indicating the location of the first and second touch sensing regions 1442 and 1442 is displayed on the display 1430, The positions of the activated first and second touch sensing regions 1441 and 1442 may be notified to the user.

Referring to FIG. 14B, when the electronic device 1400 is folded at a predetermined angle, a first touch sensing region 1451, a second touch sensing region 1442, and a third electronic device 1400 according to an exemplary embodiment. Both the touch sensing region 1451 and the fourth touch sensing region 1452 may be activated.

According to an embodiment, the first touch sensing area 1442 may be set to perform a first function in response to a user's input, and the second touch sensing area 1442 is a second function in response to a user's input. Can be set to perform. According to an embodiment, the third touch sensing region 1451 may be set to perform a third function in response to a user's input, and the fourth touch sensing region 1452 may perform a fourth function in response to a user's input. It can also be set to perform. In this case, the first function, the second function, the third function, and the fourth function may be set to perform different functions, but are not limited thereto. It may be set to perform, or the second function and the fourth function may be set to perform the same function. As an example, the first function may be a volume increase function of the electronic device 1400, the second function may be a volume reduction function of the electronic device 1400, and the third function is the power-on function of the electronic device 1400. It may be an on/off function, and the fourth function may be a voice assistance function. As another example, the first and third functions may be a volume increase function of the electronic device 1400, and the second and fourth functions may be a volume reduction function of the electronic device 1400. According to an embodiment (for example, see FIG. 14B ), the display 1430 includes a first touch detection area 1451, a second touch detection area 1442, a third touch detection area 1451, and/or a fourth touch detection area. A graphic user interface (GUI) (eg, an arrow) capable of indicating the location of the touch sensing region 1452 is displayed, and the first touch sensing region 1441, the second touch sensing region 1442, and the second touch sensing region 1442 activated to the user are displayed. The location of the 3 touch sensing area 1451 and/or the fourth touch sensing area 1452 may be notified.

Referring to FIG. 14C, when the electronic device 1400 is in a folded state, a first touch sensing region 1441 and a third touch sensing region 1451, a second touch sensing region 1442 and a fourth touch sensing region ( Each of 1452 may be disposed at a corresponding position. According to an embodiment, the first and third touch sensing regions 1451 and 1451 may be set to perform the same function in response to a user's input. 4 The touch sensing area 1452 may also be set to perform the same function in response to a user's input. As an example, the first touch sensing region 1451 and the third touch sensing region 1451 may be set to increase the volume of the electronic device 1400 in response to a user input, and the second touch sensing region 1442 ) And the fourth touch sensing area 1452 may also be set to lower the volume of the electronic device 1400 in response to a user's input.

As the first and third touch sensing regions 1441 and 1451 are formed at corresponding positions, and the second and fourth touch sensing regions 1442 and 1452 are formed at corresponding positions, , A region capable of detecting a user's input may be enlarged, and as a result, a case in which an erroneous touch different from the user's intention may occur due to a fine touch.

The electronic device 1400 according to an embodiment adjusts the touch sensitivity, so that when the electronic device 1400 is in a folded state, the electronic device 1400 is positioned at the center of the first and third touch sensing regions 1451. A first virtual touch sensing region 1461 may be formed, and a second virtual touch sensing region 1462 positioned at the center of the second touch sensing region 1442 and the fourth touch sensing region 1452 may be formed. have. When the electronic device 1400 is in a folded state, the electronic device 1400 detects only a user's input to the first virtual touch sensing region 1461 and/or the second virtual touch sensing region 1462, thereby providing a fine touch. It is possible to minimize the erroneous touch caused by.

14C, the first virtual touch sensing area 1461 is located at the center of the first and third touch sensing areas 1451 and 1451, and the second virtual touch sensing area 1462 is a second touch sensing area. Although shown to be located at the center of the 1442 and the fourth touch sensing region 1452, the present invention is not limited thereto, and according to an embodiment, the first virtual touch sensing region 1461 and/or the second virtual touch sensing region ( 1462) may be formed to be biased to any one of the sensing regions. As an example, the first virtual touch sensing region 1461 may be formed to be skewed toward the first touch sensing region 1451, and conversely may be formed to be skewed toward the third touch sensing region 1451.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, in an electronic device (eg, the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2A), a first housing structure (eg, the first housing structure 211 of FIG. 2A), a second housing structure ( Example: A second housing structure 212 of FIG. 2A and a hinge structure connecting the first housing structure and the second housing structure (for example, the hinge structure 333 of FIG. 3), and the electronic device is unfolded. In the (unfolded) state (eg, the electronic device of FIG. 2A), a foldable housing (eg, the foldable housing 210 of FIG. 2A) that forms the rear and side surfaces of the electronic device, in a space formed by the foldable housing A flexible display (e.g., the display 230 of FIG. 2A) that is disposed and forms the front surface of the electronic device in the unfolded state, and is located on one side of the first housing structure to receive a user's manipulation. At least one input unit (eg, the input unit 240 of FIG. 2A), in a folded state of the electronic device (eg, the electronic device of FIG. 2B), a side surface of the second housing structure corresponding to the input unit At least one formed touch sensing region (for example, the touch sensing region 250 of FIG. 2B) and a processor electrically connected to the at least one input unit or the at least one touch sensing region (for example, the processor 560 of FIG. 5 ). )), wherein the processor identifies whether the electronic device is in the folded state or the unfolded state, and activates the touch sensing region based on the identification result, and the activated touch sensing region or the input unit In response to the user's input to, the electronic device may be driven.

According to an embodiment, in the unfolded state of the electronic device, a distance between the input unit and the hinge structure (eg, L1 and L2 in FIG. 4A) and a distance between the touch sensing region and the hinge structure may be the same. .

According to an embodiment, the input unit and the touch sensing region are disposed at a position symmetrical with respect to a virtual center line (eg, ML in FIG. 4B) formed on the side of the housing due to the folded state of the electronic device. I can.

According to an embodiment, a folding angle between the first housing structure and the second housing structure (eg, θ in FIG. 11) or whether the first housing structure and the second housing structure are in contact with each other is detected. A sensor unit (for example, the sensor unit 570 of FIG. 5) may be further included, and the processor may be configured to determine the folded state or the unfolded state of the electronic device in response to the detection result of the sensor unit. have.

According to an embodiment, the sensor unit may include at least one of a Hall sensor, a digital Hall sensor, a gyro sensor, a six axis sensor, a rotary sensor, and a stretch sensor.

According to an embodiment (e.g., FIGS. 7A and 7B), when the electronic device is determined to be in the folded state, the processor activates the touch sensing region to detect the user's manipulation of the touch sensing region. Can be configured.

According to an embodiment (e.g., FIG. 9), the processor may be configured to detect the user's manipulation of the touch sensing region by activating the touch sensing region when the folding angle is within a specified angular range. have.

According to an embodiment (for example, FIG. 7C), when the electronic device is determined to be in the open state, the processor may be configured to detect whether a user grips the electronic device through the touch sensing area. .

According to an embodiment, the at least one input unit includes a first input unit configured to execute a first function according to the user's manipulation (for example, the first input unit 1321 of FIGS. 13A and 13B) and the first function It may include a second input unit (eg, the second input unit 1322 of FIGS. 13A and 13B) configured to execute another second function.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is determined to be in the folded state, the processor may be configured to switch functions of the first input unit and the second input unit.

According to an embodiment, a fingerprint sensor (eg, the fingerprint sensor 1160 of FIGS. 11A and 11B) positioned on one side of the second housing structure is further included, and the at least one touch sensing area comprises the electronic device. In the folded state of, a third touch sensing region (eg, a second touch sensing region 1170 of FIGS. 11A and 11B) formed on one side of the first housing structure corresponding to the fingerprint sensor may be further included. have.

According to an embodiment, the fingerprint sensor and the third touch sensing area are symmetrical with respect to a virtual center line (for example, ML' in FIG. 11B) formed on the side of the housing due to the folded state of the electronic device. Can be placed in position.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is determined to be in the folded state, the processor is configured to activate the third touch sensing region to detect a user's touch input to the third touch sensing region. I can.

In a method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, in a method of controlling an electronic device, a first housing structure and a second housing structure rotatable by a hinge structure may be in a folded state or an unfolded state. ) An operation of identifying a state through a sensor unit, based on the identification result, corresponding to at least one input unit formed on one side of the first housing structure in the folded state of the electronic device, and the second housing structure An operation of activating at least one touch sensing region formed on one side of the input unit, and driving the electronic device in response to a user's manipulation of the input unit or a user's input to the activated touch sensing region. I can.

According to an embodiment, the operation of activating the touch sensing region may activate the touch sensing region when it is determined that the electron is in a folded state as a result of the identification.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is determined to be in an open state as a result of the identification, an operation of detecting whether the user has a grip on the electronic device through the touch sensing area may be further included.

According to an embodiment, an operation of identifying a folding angle between the first housing structure and the second housing structure through the sensor unit may be further included.

According to an embodiment, the operation of activating the touch sensing region may activate the touch sensing region when the folding angle is identified as within a specified angle range as a result of identifying the folding angle.

According to an embodiment, the at least one input unit includes a first input unit configured to execute a first function according to the user's manipulation, and a second input unit configured to execute a second function different from the first function. I can.

According to an embodiment, when it is determined that the electronic device is in the folded state as a result of identifying whether the electronic device is in the folded state or the unfolded state, an operation of switching functions of the first input unit and the second input unit is performed. It may contain more.

In the above-described specific embodiments of the present disclosure, components included in the disclosure are expressed in the singular or plural according to the presented specific embodiments. However, the singular or plural expression is selected appropriately for the situation presented for convenience of description, and the present disclosure is not limited to the singular or plural constituent elements, and even constituent elements expressed in plural are composed of the singular or Even the expressed constituent elements may be composed of pluralities.

Meanwhile, although specific embodiments have been described in the detailed description of the present disclosure, various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is limited to the described embodiments and should not be defined, and should be determined by the scope of the claims and equivalents as well as the scope of the claims to be described later.

Claims (20)

In the electronic device,
A first housing structure, a second housing structure, and a hinge structure connecting the first housing structure and the second housing structure, and forming a rear surface and a side surface of the electronic device in an unfolded state of the electronic device. Foldable housing;
A flexible display disposed in a space formed by the foldable housing and forming a front surface of the electronic device in an unfolded state of the electronic device;
At least one input unit positioned on one side of the first housing structure to receive a user's manipulation;
At least one touch sensing region formed on one side of the second housing structure corresponding to the input unit in a folded state of the electronic device; And
A processor electrically connected to the at least one input unit or the at least one touch sensing area; and
The processor,
Identify whether the electronic device is in the folded state or the unfolded state,
Based on the identification result, activating the touch sensing area,
An electronic device configured to drive the electronic device in response to the user's input to the activated touch sensing area or the input unit.
The method of claim 1,
In the unfolded state of the electronic device, a distance between the input unit and the hinge structure and a distance between the touch sensing area and the hinge structure are the same.
The method of claim 1,
The input unit and the touch sensing area are disposed at positions symmetrical with respect to a virtual center line formed on a side surface of the housing due to the folded state of the electronic device.
The method of claim 1,
A sensor unit configured to detect a folding angle between the first housing structure and the second housing structure or whether the first housing structure and the second housing structure are in contact with each other;
The processor is configured to determine the folded state or the unfolded state of the electronic device in response to the detection result of the sensor unit.
The method of claim 4,
The sensor unit,
An electronic device comprising at least one of a Hall sensor, a digital Hall sensor, a gyro sensor, a six axis sensor, a rotary sensor, and a stretch sensor.
The method of claim 4,
The processor,
When the electronic device is determined to be in the folded state, the electronic device is configured to activate the touch sensing region to sense the user's manipulation of the touch sensing region.
The method of claim 4,
The processor,
When the folding angle is within a specified angle range, the electronic device is configured to detect the user's manipulation of the touch sensing region by activating the touch sensing region.
The method of claim 4,
The processor,
When it is determined that the electronic device is in the open state, the electronic device is configured to detect whether the user grips the electronic device through the touch sensing area.
The method of claim 4,
The at least one input unit,
A first input unit configured to execute a first function according to the user's manipulation; And
And a second input unit configured to execute a second function different from the first function.
The method of claim 9,
The processor,
When the electronic device is determined to be in the folded state, the electronic device is configured to switch functions of the first input unit and the second input unit.
The method of claim 4,
Further comprising a fingerprint sensor positioned on one side of the second housing structure,
The at least one touch sensing area,
The electronic device further comprises a third touch sensing area formed on one side of the first housing structure corresponding to the fingerprint sensor in the folded state of the electronic device.
The method of claim 11,
The fingerprint sensor and the third touch sensing area are disposed at a position symmetrical with respect to a virtual center line formed on a side surface of the housing due to the folded state of the electronic device.
The method of claim 11,
The processor,
When the electronic device is determined to be in the folded state, the electronic device is configured to activate the third touch sensing region to sense a user's touch input to the third touch sensing region.
In the method of controlling an electronic device,
Identifying whether an electronic device including a first housing structure and a second housing structure rotatable by a hinge structure is in a folded state or an unfolded state through a sensor unit;
Based on the identification result, in the folded state of the electronic device, at least one touch sensing region corresponding to at least one input unit formed on one side of the first housing structure and formed on one side of the second housing structure The operation of activating; And
And driving the electronic device in response to a user's manipulation of the input unit or a user's input to the activated touch sensing area.
The method of claim 14,
The operation of activating the touch sensing area,
When it is determined that the electronic device is folded as a result of the identification, the method of activating the touch sensing area.
The method of claim 14,
When the electronic device is determined to be in an open state as a result of the identification, detecting whether the user has a grip on the electronic device through the touch sensing area.
The method of claim 14,
The method further comprising: identifying a folding angle between the first housing structure and the second housing structure through the sensor unit.
The method of claim 17,
The operation of activating the touch sensing area,
As a result of identifying the folding angle, when the folding angle is confirmed to be within a specified angle range, the method of activating the touch sensing area.
The method of claim 14,
The at least one input unit,
A first input unit configured to execute a first function according to the user's manipulation; And
And a second input unit configured to execute a second function different from the first function.
The method of claim 19,
When it is determined that the electronic device is in the folded state as a result of identifying whether the electronic device is in the folded state or the unfolded state, switching functions of the first input unit and the second input unit; .

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