KR20240030850A - Electronic device and method for controlling screen lock function thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic device according to various embodiments includes a first housing, a second housing connected to the second housing through a hinge structure, a first display area disposed in the first housing, and a second display disposed in the second housing. A display that includes an area and can be folded based on a border area of the first display area and the second display area, at least one sensor, and is disposed in the first housing or the second housing, wherein the display and the It may include a processor operatively coupled to the gyro sensor.

Description

{ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SCREEN LOCK FUNCTION THEREOF}

The present disclosure relates to electronic devices, for example, a foldable type electronic device including a flexible display, and a method for automatically setting or releasing a screen lock function in the electronic device.

With the development of mobile communication and hardware/software technologies, portable electronic devices (hereinafter referred to as electronic devices), such as smartphones, can be equipped with various functions. Electronic devices include a touch screen-based display so that users can easily access various functions, and can provide various user experiences through the display. In order to satisfy both the demand for large-sized displays for better user experience of electronic devices and portability, displays of various form factors are being developed.

A foldable type electronic device can be configured to be completely folded using a display made of flexible material. Electronic devices equipped with such foldable displays can use a large display area when unfolded, and the overall volume of the electronic device is reduced when folded, thereby improving both usability and portability.

Foldable electronic devices need to provide screens with various layouts depending on the degree of folding of the display. For example, since the state of the display seen from the user's perspective is different when the display is in a fully unfolded state or in a partially folded state, the screens that make up the application also need to be configured according to the current state of the display. In addition, it is necessary to appropriately configure the screen by considering the direction (or orientation) of the display. To achieve this, it is necessary to appropriately control the screen settings, taking into account the user's intention according to the folding degree and direction of the display.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure (or specification, or invention), an electronic device It includes a first housing, a second housing connected to the second housing through a hinge structure, a first display area disposed in the first housing, and a second display area disposed in the second housing, and the first display A display that can be folded based on a boundary area of the area and the second display area, at least one sensor, and a processor disposed in the first housing or the second housing and operatively connected to the display and the gyro sensor. may include.

According to various embodiments, the processor sets a screen to not change the direction and layout of the screen displayed on the display when the orientation of the display changes from portrait to landscape, based on user input. You can activate the lock function.

According to various embodiments, when folding or unfolding the display, the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is checked, and when the screen lock function is activated, the When the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is within the reference range, the screen lock function is temporarily deactivated, and in a state in which the screen lock function is temporarily deactivated, the sensing value of the at least one sensor Based on this, the current orientation of the display may be determined to be either horizontal or vertical, and if the current orientation of the display corresponds to the horizontal direction, a determined operation mode may be set to be executed.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device and a screen of the electronic device capable of appropriately controlling the screen lock function according to the user's intention in a foldable type electronic device and providing a screen in the intended operation mode accordingly. A method of controlling the locking function can be provided.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating an electronic device that can be folded based on a vertical folding axis according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating an electronic device that can be folded based on a horizontal folding axis according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating a screen lock function of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating flex mode operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 6 is a diagram showing operations during folding and rotation of an electronic device according to a comparative example.
7 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 8A and 8B are diagrams illustrating temporary release of the screen lock function and flex mode operation when the electronic device is rotated, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a notification window provided in the flex mode of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating operations when folding an electronic device in a screen-off state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a process for resetting the screen lock function of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 12 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a screen lock function of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100, according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment 100, the electronic device 101 communicates with the electronic device 102 through a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or a second network 199. It is possible to communicate with at least one of the electronic device 104 or the server 108 through (e.g., a long-distance wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 through the server 108. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes a processor 120, a memory 130, an input module 150, an audio output module 155, a display module 160, an audio module 170, and a sensor module ( 176), interface 177, connection terminal 178, haptic module 179, camera module 180, power management module 188, battery 189, communication module 190, subscriber identification module 196 , or may include an antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of these components (eg, the connection terminal 178) may be omitted or one or more other components may be added to the electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module 176, camera module 180, or antenna module 197) are integrated into one component (e.g., display module 160). It can be.

The processor 120, for example, executes software (e.g., program 140) to operate at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 connected to the processor 120. It can be controlled and various data processing or calculations can be performed. According to one embodiment, as at least part of data processing or computation, the processor 120 stores commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 176 or communication module 190) in volatile memory 132. The commands or data stored in the volatile memory 132 can be processed, and the resulting data can be stored in the non-volatile memory 134. According to one embodiment, the processor 120 includes a main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor 123 that can operate independently or together (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural network processing unit ( It may include a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device 101 includes a main processor 121 and a secondary processor 123, the secondary processor 123 may be set to use lower power than the main processor 121 or be specialized for a designated function. You can. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented separately from the main processor 121 or as part of it.

The auxiliary processor 123 may, for example, act on behalf of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or while the main processor 121 is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. ), together with the main processor 121, at least one of the components of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the display module 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190) At least some of the functions or states related to can be controlled. According to one embodiment, co-processor 123 (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module 180 or communication module 190). there is. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (eg, neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. Artificial intelligence models can be created through machine learning. For example, such learning may be performed in the electronic device 101 itself on which the artificial intelligence model is performed, or may be performed through a separate server (e.g., server 108). Learning algorithms may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but It is not limited. An artificial intelligence model may include multiple artificial neural network layers. Artificial neural networks include deep neural network (DNN), convolutional neural network (CNN), recurrent neural network (RNN), restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), belief deep network (DBN), bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), It may be one of deep Q-networks or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to hardware structures, artificial intelligence models may additionally or alternatively include software structures.

The memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component (eg, the processor 120 or the sensor module 176) of the electronic device 101. Data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program 140) and instructions related thereto. Memory 130 may include volatile memory 132 or non-volatile 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 application 146.

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

The sound output module 155 may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output module 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. Speakers can be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback. 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 it.

The display module 160 can visually provide information to the outside of the electronic device 101 (eg, a user). The display module 160 may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector, and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module 160 may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of force generated by the touch.

The audio module 170 can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module 170 acquires sound through the input module 150, the sound output module 155, or an external electronic device (e.g., directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101). Sound may be output through the electronic device 102 (e.g., speaker or headphone).

The sensor module 176 detects the operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generates an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. can do. According to one embodiment, the sensor module 176 includes, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, It may include a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or light sensor.

The interface 177 may support one or more designated protocols that can be used to connect the electronic device 101 directly or wirelessly with an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102). According to one 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 one 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 can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimulation (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimulation that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

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

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

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

Communication module 190 is configured to provide a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between electronic device 101 and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108). It can support establishment and communication through established communication channels. Communication module 190 operates independently of processor 120 (e.g., an application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module 190 is a wireless communication module 192 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 194 (e.g., : LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module) may be included. Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module is a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network 199 (e.g., legacy It may communicate with an external electronic device 104 through a telecommunication network such as a cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or may be implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module 192 uses subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module 196 within a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199. The electronic device 101 can be confirmed or authenticated.

The wireless communication module 192 may support 5G networks after 4G networks and next-generation communication technologies, for example, NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology provides high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and access to multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low latency). -latency communications)) can be supported. The wireless communication module 192 may support high frequency bands (eg, mmWave bands), for example, to achieve high data rates. The wireless communication module 192 uses various technologies to secure performance in high frequency bands, for example, beamforming, massive array multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), and full-dimensional multiplexing. It can support technologies such as input/output (FD-MIMO: full dimensional MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module 192 may support various requirements specified in the electronic device 101, an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 104), or a network system (e.g., second network 199). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 supports Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mmTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing URLLC. Example: Downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each of 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) can be supported.

The antenna module 197 may transmit or receive signals or power to or from the outside (eg, an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include an antenna including a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (eg, PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include a plurality of antennas (eg, an array antenna). 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 connected to the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module 190. can be selected. Signals 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, in addition to the radiator, other components (eg, radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module 197.

According to various embodiments, the antenna module 197 may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, a mmWave antenna module includes: a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first side (e.g., bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band); And a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to the second side (e.g., top or side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high frequency band. can do.

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

According to one embodiment, commands 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 external electronic devices 102 or 104 may be of the same or different type as the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed in the electronic device 101 may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices 102, 104, or 108. For example, when the electronic device 101 needs to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 101 may perform the function or service instead of executing the function or service on its own. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more external electronic devices may be requested to perform at least part of the function or service. One or more external electronic devices that have received the request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least part of a response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology can be used. The electronic device 101 may provide an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device 104 may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. Server 108 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device 104 or server 108 may be included in the second network 199. The electronic device 101 may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

Electronic devices according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various types. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to embodiments of this document are not limited to the above-described devices.

The various embodiments of this document and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various changes, equivalents, or replacements of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numbers 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 the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “A Each of phrases such as “at least one of , B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or any possible combination thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another, and to refer to that component in other respects (e.g., importance or order) is not limited. One (e.g., first) component is said to be “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively.” When mentioned, it means that any of the components can be connected to the other components directly (e.g. wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

The term “module” used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and is interchangeable with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. It can be used as A module may be an integrated part or a minimum unit of the parts or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, the module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Various embodiments of the present document are one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., built-in memory 136 or external memory 138) that can be read by a machine (e.g., electronic device 101). It may be implemented as software (e.g., program 140) including these. For example, a processor (e.g., processor 120) of a device (e.g., electronic device 101) may call at least one command among one or more commands stored from a storage medium and execute it. This allows the device to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed 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 signals (e.g. electromagnetic waves), and this term refers to cases where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium. There is no distinction between temporary storage cases.

According to one embodiment, methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be included and provided in a computer program product. Computer program products are commodities and can be traded between sellers and buyers. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g. compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)) or via an application store (e.g. Play Store ^TM ) or on two user devices (e.g. It can be distributed (e.g. downloaded or uploaded) directly between smart phones) or online. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the above-described components may include a single or plural entity, and some of the plurality of entities may be separately placed in other components. there is. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations described above may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple components (eg, modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. 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 manner as those performed by the corresponding component of the plurality of components prior to the integration. . According to various embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, or omitted. Alternatively, one or more other operations may be added.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate an electronic device that can be folded to the left or right with respect to the vertical folding axis A, based on the state in which the electronic device 2 is placed in the vertical direction (or portrait direction).

FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating the electronic device 2 in an unfolded state (or unfolding state, or flat state), according to one embodiment. FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating the electronic device 2 in a folded state (or folding state), according to an embodiment. The electronic device 2 may be defined as a foldable electronic device.

Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B , the electronic device 2 may include a foldable housing 20, a first display module 24, and/or a second display module 25. The first display module 24 may be at least partially made of a flexible material and may be a foldable display that can be folded about the folding axis (A).

According to one embodiment, the foldable housing 20 may include a first housing 21, a second housing 22, and a hinge structure 23. The first housing 21 and the second housing 22 may be connected through a hinge structure 23 and may be mutually rotatable based on the hinge structure 23 . Hinge structure 23 may include one or more hinge modules and/or hinge assemblies.

According to one embodiment, the display area 24A of the first display module 24 is an active area capable of displaying an image among the first display module 24, and includes the first display area ① and the second display area ②. ) may include. The first display area (①) and the second display area (②) can be divided based on the folding axis (A). The area on the hinge structure 23 among the first display area (①) and the second display area (②) can be defined as the middle area (③), and the middle area (③) is the first display area (①). It may include a part adjacent to the second display area (②) and a part of the second display area (②) adjacent to the first display area (①).

According to one embodiment, the first display area (①) is disposed on the first housing (21), and the shape of the first display area (①) can be maintained by support of the first housing (21). The second display area (②) is disposed on the second housing (22), and the shape of the second display area (②) can be maintained by support of the second housing (22). The first display area ① and the second display area ② may be provided substantially flat, for example. The unfolded state (see FIG. 2A) of the electronic device 2 may be a state in which the middle region ③ is arranged substantially flat. In the unfolded state of the electronic device 2, the first display area ① and the second display area ② may form an angle of about 180 degrees, and the first display area ① and the second display area ② ) may be provided (or arranged) in a substantially flat form.

According to one embodiment, in the unfolded state of the electronic device 2, the middle area ③ can be pulled from both sides by the first display area ① and the second display area ②, and the pulling force is It can be provided to reduce damage to the middle area (③) while placing the middle area (③) flatly. In the unfolded state of the electronic device 2, the hinge structure 23 may support the middle area ③ of the first display area ① and the second display area ②. In the unfolded state of the electronic device 2, when an external force (e.g., external pressure such as a touch input using the user's finger or a touch input using an electronic pen) is applied to the middle area (③), the hinge portion is in the middle area (③) By reducing the sagging phenomenon in ③), it can contribute to keeping the middle area (③) flat. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 2 may be provided in an infolding manner in which the display area 24A of the first display module 24 is folded inward.

FIG. 2B shows a fully folded state of the electronic device 2 in which the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are no longer close to each other. In the fully folded state of the electronic device 2, the first display area ① and the second display area ② can be positioned facing each other, and the middle area ③ is arranged in a bent shape. It can be. In the fully folded state of the electronic device 2, the angle between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 (or the angle between the first display area ① and the second display area ②) may be from about 0 degrees to about 10 degrees, and the display area 24A may be substantially invisible. Although not shown, the intermediate state of the electronic device 2 may be a state between an unfolded state and a fully folded state. In an intermediate state where the angle between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 is more than a certain angle, a use environment in which there is no practical difficulty for the user to use the display area 24A can be provided, according to one embodiment. According to , if the electronic device 2 satisfies the conditions set in the intermediate state, it can operate in a set operation mode (eg, flex mode).

According to one embodiment, when viewing the unfolded state of the electronic device 2 (see FIG. 2A), the display area 24A of the first display module 24 is aligned with the folding axis A of the electronic device 2. It can be provided in a symmetrical form as a standard. In the folded state of the electronic device 2 (see FIG. 2b), the middle region ③ arranged in a bent shape may be substantially symmetrical with respect to the folding axis A of the electronic device 2. When viewing the unfolded state of electronic device 2, display area 24A may be substantially rectangular. The display area 24A may include a first edge (E1), a second edge (E2), a third edge (E3), and a fourth edge (E4). The first edge E1 and the second edge E2 may be substantially parallel to the folding axis A. The third edge (E3) connects one end of the first edge (E1) and one end of the second edge (E2), and the fourth edge (E4) connects the other end of the first edge (E1) and the second edge ( The other end of E2) can be connected. The first display area ① may include a first edge E1, a portion of the third edge E3, and a portion of the fourth edge E4. The second display area ② may include a portion of the second edge E2, a portion of the third edge E3, and a portion of the fourth edge E4. In the folded state of the electronic device 2, the first edge E1 and the second edge E2 may overlap and be aligned. In the folded state of the electronic device 2, a portion of the third edge E3 included in the first display area ① and a portion included in the second display area ② of the third edge E3 overlap. This can be sorted. In the folded state of the electronic device 2, a portion included in the first display area ① of the fourth edge E4 and a portion included in the second display area ② of the fourth edge E4 overlap. This can be sorted.

According to one embodiment, the first housing 21 may include a first frame 211 and/or a first cover 212 disposed on the first frame 211. may include. The first frame 211 may include a first side disposed along the edge of the first display area ① of the first display module 24. The first side may provide a first side of the electronic device 2 corresponding to the first display area ① of the electronic device 2. The first frame 211 may include a first support portion extending from or connected to the first side. The first display area (①) may be disposed on the first support unit, and the first support unit may support the first display area (①). The first display area ① and the first cover 212 may be located on opposite sides of each other with the first support part of the first frame 211 sandwiched between them. The first side of the first frame 211 may be arranged to at least partially surround the space between the first display area ① and the first cover 212 . The first display area ① may provide one side of the outer surface of the electronic device 2, and the first cover 212 may be substantially opposite to the first display area ① of the outer surface of the electronic device 2. A surface facing in the direction may be provided. Various electrical components (or electronic components), such as a printed circuit board or battery, may be disposed on the first support between the first support of the first frame 211 and the first cover 212.

According to one embodiment, the second housing 22 may include a second frame 221 and/or a second cover 222 disposed on the second frame 221. The second frame 221 may include a second side disposed along the edge of the second display area ② of the first display module 24. The second side may provide a second side of the electronic device 2 corresponding to the second display area ② of the electronic device 2. In the folded state of the electronic device 2 (see FIG. 2B), the first side of the first frame 211 and the second side of the second frame 221 may overlap and be aligned. The second frame 221 may include a second support portion extending from or connected to the second side. The second display area (②) may be disposed on the second support unit, and the second support unit may support the second display area (②). The second display area ② and the second cover 222 may be located on opposite sides of the first support part of the second frame 221 . The second side of the second frame 221 may be arranged to at least partially surround the space between the second display area ② and the second cover 222. The second display area ② may provide one side of the outer surface of the electronic device 2, and the second cover 222 is substantially opposite to the second display area ② of the outer surface of the electronic device 2. A surface facing in the direction may be provided. Various electrical components (or electronic components), such as a printed circuit board or battery, may be disposed on the second support between the second support of the second frame 221 and the second cover 212.

According to one embodiment, in the folded state of the electronic device 2, the hinge structure 23 penetrates the interior of the electronic device 2 through an open gap between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. Covering can be a part of the exterior. More of the hinge structure 23 may be exposed in the folded state of Figure 2b than in the intermediate state. When the electronic device 2 switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, a change in the relative position between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 connected to each other through the hinge structure 23, and the hinge housing 23 ), the gap between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 is closed on the opposite side of the middle region ③, and the hinge structure 23 is closed. Due to the combination of the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, it is located in an internal space and may not be exposed to the outside.

According to one embodiment, the second display module 25 may be located between the second frame 221 and the second cover 222. The second cover 222 may be substantially transparent, and the second display module 25 may be visible through the second cover 222. The electronic device 2 may be configured to display an image through the second display module 25 instead of the first display module 24 in the folded state. According to one embodiment, the second display module 25 may not be flexible.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 2 includes one or more audio modules (e.g., the audio module 170 of FIG. 1), one or more sensor modules (e.g., the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1), and one or more Camera modules (e.g., camera module 180 in FIG. 1), one or more light emitting modules, one or more input modules (e.g., input module 150 in FIG. 1), and/or one or more connection terminal modules ( Example: It may include at least one of the interface 177 or the connection terminal 178 of FIG. 1. In various embodiments, the electronic device 2 may omit at least one of the components or may additionally include other components. The location or number of components included in the electronic device 2 is not limited to the illustrated example and may vary.

For example, any one of the one or more audio modules may include a microphone located inside the electronic device 2 corresponding to the microphone hole 251 provided on the exterior of the electronic device 2. In the illustrated example, the microphone hole 251 may be provided on the first side of the first frame 211, and the microphone may be located in the inner space of the first housing 21. The location or number of microphones and microphone holes is not limited to the example shown and may vary. In various embodiments, electronic device 2 may include a plurality of microphones used to detect the direction of sound.

For example, any one of the one or more audio modules is for multimedia playback (or recording playback) located inside the electronic device 2 corresponding to the first speaker hole 252 provided on the exterior of the electronic device 2. For) may include a first speaker. In the illustrated example, the first speaker hole 252 may be provided on the second side of the second frame 221, and the first speaker may be located in the inner space of the second housing 22. For example, any one of the one or more audio modules is located inside the electronic device 2 in response to the second speaker hole (e.g., receiver hole) 253 provided on the exterior of the electronic device 2. It may include a second speaker (e.g., a receiver for calls). In the illustrated example, the second speaker hole 253 may be provided in the second frame 221 adjacent to the second cover 222, and the second speaker may be located in the inner space of the second housing 22. You can. The location or number of speakers and speaker holes is not limited to the example shown and may vary. In various embodiments, the microphone hall and speaker hall may be implemented as one hall. In various embodiments, a piezo speaker may be provided with a speaker hole omitted.

One or more sensor modules may generate, for example, an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device 2 or an external environmental state. In one embodiment, one of the one or more sensor modules may include an optical sensor 254 located in the inner space of the second housing 22 corresponding to the second cover 212. The optical sensor 254 may be positioned in alignment with the opening provided in the second display module 25 or may be at least partially inserted into the opening. External light may reach the optical sensor through the opening provided in the second cover 222 and the second display module 25. The optical sensor 254 may include, for example, a proximity sensor or an illumination sensor. The number or location of optical sensors is not limited to the example shown and may vary.

According to various embodiments, the optical sensor 254 is located in the internal space of the second housing 22 by at least partially overlapping the display area of the second display module 25 when viewed from above the second cover 222. can be located In this case, the sensing function of the optical sensor 254 may be performed without the optical sensor 254 or the position of the optical sensor 254 being visually distinguished (or exposed) or visible. In one embodiment, the optical sensor 254 may be located on the back of the second display module 25 or below or beneath the second display module 25, and the optical sensor 254 or the optical sensor 254 may be located below or beneath the second display module 25. The location of the sensor 254 may not be visually distinguished (or exposed). In various embodiments, the optical sensor 254 may be positioned aligned with a recess provided on the rear surface of the second display module 25 or may be at least partially inserted into the recess. Some areas of the second display module 25 that at least partially overlap with the optical sensor 254 may include different pixel structures and/or wiring structures compared to other areas. For example, some areas of the second display module 25 that at least partially overlap with the optical sensor 254 may have a different pixel density than other areas. The pixel structure and/or wiring structure formed in a portion of the second display module 25 that at least partially overlaps the optical sensor 254 may reduce light loss between the external and optical sensor 254. For another example, a plurality of pixels may not be disposed in some areas of the second display module 25 that at least partially overlap the optical sensor 254.

According to various embodiments, but not limited to the optical sensor 254, such as a proximity sensor or an illumination sensor, various other sensors are positioned corresponding to the opening provided in the second display module 25 or It may be located on the back of or below the second display module 25. For example, an optical, electrostatic, or ultrasonic biometric sensor (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) is positioned in response to an opening provided in the second display module 25, on the back of the second display module 25, or It may be located below the second display module 25.

According to various embodiments, various sensors may be positioned corresponding to openings provided in the first display module 24, on the back of the first display module 24, or below the first display module 24. .

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 2 may include various other sensors (e.g., a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a temperature sensor, or humidity sensor), and its location may vary.

According to one embodiment, one or more camera modules may include one or a plurality of lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. One or more camera modules may include, for example, a first camera module 255, a second camera module 256, a third camera module 257, and/or a fourth camera module 258.

According to one embodiment, the first camera module 255 may be located in the inner space of the second housing 22 corresponding to the second cover 222. The first camera module 255 may be positioned aligned with the opening provided in the second display module 25 or may be at least partially inserted into the opening. External light may reach the first camera module 255 through the opening of the second cover 222 and the second display module 25. The opening of the second display module 25 aligned with or overlapping with the first camera module 255 may be provided in the form of a through hole as shown in the example. In various embodiments, the opening of the second display module 25 aligned with or overlapping the first camera module 255 may be provided in the form of a notch.

According to various embodiments, the first camera module 255 is located inside the second housing 22 by at least partially overlapping the display area of the second display module 25 when viewed from above the second cover 222. Can be located in space. In this case, the first camera module 255 or the position of the first camera module 255 may not be visually distinguished (or exposed) or visible, and the photographing function of the first camera module 255 may be performed. In one embodiment, the first camera module 255 may be located on the back of the second display module 25 or below or beneath the second display module 25, and the first camera module ( 255) Alternatively, the position of the first camera module 255 may not be visually distinguished (or exposed) or visible. In various embodiments, the first camera module 255 may be positioned aligned with a recess provided on the rear surface of the second display module 25 or may be at least partially inserted into the recess. The first camera module 255 may include, for example, a hidden display rear camera (eg, under display camera (UDC)). Some areas of the second display module 25 that at least partially overlap with the first camera module 255 may include different pixel structures and/or wiring structures compared to other areas. For example, some areas of the second display module 25 that at least partially overlap with the first camera module 255 may have a different pixel density than other areas. The pixel structure and/or wiring structure formed in a portion of the second display module 25 that at least partially overlaps the first camera module 255 can reduce light loss between the external and optical sensors. For another example, a plurality of pixels may not be disposed in some areas of the second display module 25 that at least partially overlap with the first camera module 255 .

According to one embodiment, the second camera module 256, the third camera module 257, or the fourth camera module 258 is installed in the inner space of the first housing 21 in response to the first cover 212. can be located The first cover 212 may include a camera cover portion (e.g., camera deco portion) disposed to correspond to the second camera module 256, the third camera module 257, and the fourth camera module 258. there is. The camera cover portion includes a camera hole (or light transmission area) provided in response to the second camera module 256, a camera hole (or light transmission area) provided in response to the third camera module 257, and a fourth camera module 258 ) may include a camera hole (or light transmission area) provided in response to the. The number or location of camera modules provided in response to the first cover 212 is not limited to the illustrated example and may vary. The second camera module 256, third camera module 257, and third camera module 258 may have different properties (eg, angle of view) or functions. The second camera module 256, the third camera module 257, and the third camera module 258 may provide different angles of view (or lenses of different angles of view), and the electronic device 2 may provide different angles of view. The camera module can be selectively used based on the user's choice regarding. Any one of the second camera module 256, the third camera module 257, and the third camera module 258 is a wide-angle camera module, a telephoto camera module, a color camera module, a monochrome camera module, or an IR ( may include an infrared) camera (e.g., time of flight (TOF) camera, structured light camera) module. In various embodiments, an IR camera module may operate as at least part of a sensor module.

According to one embodiment, one of the one or more light emitting modules is installed in the first housing 21 in response to a flash hole (or light transmission area) provided in the camera cover part of the first cover 212. It may include a flash 259 located in the internal space. The flash 259 may include a light source for the second camera module 256, the third camera module 257, and/or the fourth camera module 258. The flash 259 may include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED) or a xenon lamp.

According to various embodiments, any one light-emitting module (eg, LED, IR LED, or xenon lamp) among one or more light-emitting modules may be configured to provide status information of the electronic device 2 in the form of light. In various embodiments, the light emitting module may provide a light source linked to the operation of the first camera module 255.

According to one embodiment, one or more input modules may include a first key input device 260 or a second key input device 261. In the illustrated example, the first key input device 260 or the second key input device 261 may be located in an opening provided on the first side of the first frame 211. The location or number of input modules is not limited to the illustrated example and may vary. In various embodiments, the electronic device 2 may not include some or all of the key input devices, and the key input devices not included may be displayed through the first display module 24 or the second display module 25. It can be implemented as a soft key. In various embodiments, an input module or key input device may include at least one sensor module.

One of the one or more connection terminal modules (or connector module or interface terminal module) corresponds to, for example, a connector hole 262 formed on the exterior of the electronic device 2. Thus, it may include a connector (or interface terminal) located inside the electronic device 2. In the illustrated example, the connector hole 262 may be provided on the first side of the first frame 211. The location or number of connection terminal modules is not limited to the example shown and may vary. The electronic device 2 may transmit and/or receive power and/or data to and from an external electronic device electrically connected to the connector. In one embodiment, the connector may include a USB connector or an HDMI connector. In various embodiments, one of the one or more connection terminal modules may include an audio connector (eg, a headphone connector or an earset connector), and a connector hole provided on the exterior of the electronic device 2 corresponding to the audio connector. In various embodiments, one of the one or more connection terminal modules includes a memory card connector located inside the electronic device 2, and a connector hole formed on the exterior of the electronic device 2 corresponding to the memory card connector. It can be included.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 2 may include a detachable pen input device (eg, an electronic pen, a digital pen, or a stylus pen) (not shown). For example, the pen input device may be implemented to be inserted into the internal space of the first housing 21 or the second housing 22. For another example, the pen input device may be attached or detached to the hinge housing 23. Hinged housing 23 may include a recess, and a pen input device may fit into the recess.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an electronic device 3 that can be folded down/up based on the horizontal folding axis B, based on the state in which the electronic device 3 is placed in the vertical direction (or portrait direction).

The structure of the electronic device 3 of FIGS. 3A and 3B may be substantially the same as the electronic device 2 of FIGS. 2A and 2B except for the width/height ratio of the foldable housing and the display module, and will be described below. Description of technical features that can be inferred from the structure of the electronic device 2 in FIGS. 2A and 2B will be omitted.

FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating the electronic device 3 in an unfolded state (or unfolding state, or flat state), according to one embodiment. FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating the electronic device 3 in a folded state (or folding state), according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device 3 may include a foldable housing 30, a first display module 34, and/or a second display module 35. The first display module 34 may be at least partially made of a flexible material and may be a foldable display that can be folded down/up based on the horizontal folding axis (B).

According to one embodiment, the foldable housing 30 may include a first housing 31, a second housing 32, and a hinge structure 33. The first housing 31 and the second housing 32 may be connected through a hinge structure 33 and may be mutually rotatable based on the hinge structure 33 .

According to one embodiment, the display area 34A of the first display module 34 is an active area capable of displaying an image among the first display module 34, and includes the first display area ① and the second display area ② ) may include. The first display area (①) and the second display area (②) can be divided based on the folding axis (B).

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 3 may be provided in an infolding manner in which the display area 34A of the first display module 34 is folded inward. For example, the electronic device 3 may be folded in a direction where the first display area ① placed above and the second display area ② placed below meet each other based on the horizontal folding axis B. there is.

According to one embodiment, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in an intermediate state in which the angle between the first housing 31 and the second housing 32 is more than a certain angle, the electronic device 3 operates in a predetermined operation mode (e.g., flex mode). ) can operate.

According to one embodiment, when viewing the unfolded state of the electronic device 3 (see FIG. 3A), the display area 34A of the first display module 34 is aligned with the folding axis B of the electronic device 3. It can be provided in a symmetrical form as a standard. For example, in the case of the electronic device 3 in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first display area and the second display area were left and right symmetrical, and in the electronic device 3 in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the first display area and the second display area were symmetrical to each other. The second display areas may be symmetrical top/bottom.

According to various embodiments, although not described, the electronic device 3 may further include the components of the electronic device 2 of FIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating a screen lock function of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 400 may activate (or set) or deactivate (or cancel) the screen lock function. Here, the screen lock function may be a function that does not change the display direction (or orientation) and layout of the screen when the orientation of the electronic device 400 changes from portrait to landscape. The screen lock function may be referred to as a screen rotation function. For example, activation of the screen lock function may be defined as deactivation of the screen rotation function, and deactivation of the screen lock function may be defined as activation of the screen rotation function.

According to various embodiments, when the electronic device 400 is disposed in the vertical direction (for example, one of the third edge E3 or the fourth edge E4 of the electronic device 2 in FIG. 2A is positioned closest to the ground). close, and the first edge (E1) and the second edge (E2) are higher than the ground), the electronic device 400 can display a vertical screen composed of a portrait type layout on the display 410. . When the electronic device 400 is rotated from the portrait orientation to the landscape orientation, it may be determined whether to change the display direction and layout of the screen based on whether the screen lock function is activated.

Referring to FIG. 4A, the display 410 of the electronic device 400 (e.g., the first display module 24 in FIGS. 2A and 2B) has a first display area 420 and a second display area 430. They are placed vertically in an unfolded state parallel to each other, and the screen lock function may currently be activated. In this case, the electronic device 400 may create and display a portrait mode application screen.

When the electronic device 400 is rotated more than a predetermined angle in the horizontal direction, the electronic device 400 may detect the rotation of the electronic device 400 using a sensor (eg, a gyro sensor and/or an acceleration sensor). Referring to FIG. 4B, since the screen lock function of the electronic device 400 is currently activated, the screen configuration (e.g., screen You can display the screen as it was displayed in portrait orientation without changing the orientation and layout. Accordingly, from the user's perspective, the application screen may appear to be rotated by approximately 90 degrees.

Figure 4b shows a case where the screen lock function is disabled.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 400 provides an icon that can change whether or not the screen lock function is activated on a menu panel displayed at the top of the screen, and can activate or deactivate the screen lock function according to the user's selection. there is. When the screen lock function is activated or deactivated according to the user's selection, the shape and/or shade of the icon may change in response to the current settings.

Referring to FIG. 4b, when the electronic device 400 is rotated more than a predetermined angle in the horizontal direction, the electronic device 400 detects the rotation of the electronic device 400 using a sensor and determines that the orientation has changed to the horizontal direction. You can configure an application screen that includes a landscape type layout. For example, when an application providing media content is running, the size of the content screen on which the content is displayed is changed (e.g., expanded) to correspond to the vertical length of the display 410, and the remaining screens other than the content are changed. You can configure a layout whose size is changed in response to changes in the content screen.

According to one embodiment, even when the screen lock function is disabled, if the application supports only a portrait screen, the screen orientation and layout of the application may not change even if the electronic device 400 is rotated to the landscape orientation.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating flex mode operation of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 500 may be a foldable electronic device 500 that can be completely folded based on a folding axis (e.g., the folding axis A in FIG. 2A or the folding axis B in FIG. 3A). The display 510 of the electronic device 500 (e.g., the first display module 24 in FIG. 2A) has a first display area 520 and a second display area 520 based on the folding axis A (or boundary area). It may be divided into a display area 530.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 500 may execute a flex mode when a predetermined condition is satisfied in an intermediate state between a fully folded state and an unfolded state. Flex mode is the angle between the first display area 520 and the second display area 530 (or the first housing where the first display area 520 is placed and the second display area) with the display 510 partially folded. If the angle between the second housing where 530 is disposed is within a predetermined angle range, the operation mode may be one in which predetermined screens are provided to the first display area 520 and the second display area 530, respectively. The flex mode considers a scenario in which the user partially folds the electronic device 500 and uses it while holding it in a specific location. The electronic device 500 is in flex mode when the electronic device 500 is placed in the horizontal direction. You can run . Here, the predetermined angle range, which is a condition for executing the flex mode, may be 80 degrees to 130 degrees, but is not limited thereto.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 500 may execute flex mode when the currently executing application is an application that supports flex mode (eg, a media content application, a message application, a memo application, etc.). According to one embodiment, when the flex mode is executed, the electronic device 500 may provide screens with different properties to the first display area 520 and the second display area 530. For example, the electronic device 500 provides a screen related to the actual operation of the application in one of the first display area 520 or the second display area 530, and plays another screen in the remaining area. Screens related to user input can be provided, such as a control panel for controlling properties, a virtual touch pad, or a keyboard.

Referring to FIG. 5A, when the electronic device 500 runs an application that provides media content in an unfolded state, the content screen 581 is displayed on the entire first display area 520 and a portion of the second display area 530. ) can be displayed, and the remaining screens 586 other than the content screen can be displayed in the second display area 530. The media content application may be an application that supports flex mode. Figure 5A corresponds to one embodiment, and the size of the area where the content screen 581 and the remaining screen 586 are provided is not limited to this.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 500 is partially folded so that the angle between the first display area 520 and the second display area 530 is within a predetermined angle range (e.g., 80 degrees to 130 degrees). If maintained within degrees), flex mode can be run. Referring to FIG. 5A, the electronic device 500 displays other than the content screen in the second display area 530 located below (or placed on the bottom) of the first display area 520 and the second display area 530. The remaining screen 587 (e.g., content-related information, selectable icons, etc.) may be displayed, and a content screen 582 may be provided on the first display area 520.

When the flex mode is executed in this way, the user places the second display area 530 on the floor where the remaining screen 587 is displayed to facilitate content viewing and user input, and displays the first display area (530) according to the viewing angle. The content screen 582 can be viewed by adjusting the angle between 520 and the second display area 530.

Referring to FIG. 5B, when the electronic device 500 runs a message application in an unfolded state, the electronic device 500 displays the transmission/reception message screen 583 on the entire first display area 520 and a portion of the second display area 530. And, the keyboard screen 588 can be displayed on the second display area 530. The message application may be an application that supports Flex mode. Figure 5b corresponds to one embodiment, and the size of the area where the transmission/reception message screen 583 and the keyboard screen 588 are provided is not limited to this.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 500 is partially folded so that the angle between the first display area 520 and the second display area 530 is within a predetermined angle range (e.g., 80 degrees to 130 degrees). If maintained within degrees), flex mode can be run. Referring to FIG. 5B, the electronic device 500 displays a keyboard screen 589 on the second display area 530 located below (or placed on the bottom) of the first display area 520 and the second display area 530. ) can be displayed, and a transmission/reception message screen 584 can be provided on the first display area 520.

When the flex mode is executed in this way, the user can write a message by placing the second display area 530 where the keyboard screen 589 is displayed on the floor to facilitate keyboard input.

The above description related to flex mode corresponds to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and the execution conditions and/or operation method of flex mode are not limited thereto, and may be referred to by other names other than flex mode.

Figure 6 is a diagram showing operations during folding and rotation of an electronic device according to a comparative example.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 6, the electronic device 600 displays a display ( The orientation of 610) is arranged vertically, and the execution screen can be displayed by executing the media application. The electronic device 600 may display a vertically oriented screen with a portrait type layout on the display 610. The electronic device 600 may have the screen lock function activated according to the current user's settings.

Referring to (b) of FIG. 6, the user can rotate the electronic device 600 in the horizontal direction. In this case, the electronic device 600 does not change the screen configuration because the screen lock function is activated. Accordingly, from the user's perspective, it may appear tilted at about 90 degrees.

Referring to (c) of FIG. 6, the user can fold the electronic device 600 within a set angle range. For example, the user may determine the angle between the first display area 620 and the second display area 630 (or the angle between the first housing where the first display area 620 is placed and the second display area 630). The angle between the second housing) can be folded between 80 degrees and 130 degrees, which is the execution condition for flex mode. However, in this case, because the screen is displayed in portrait mode due to the screen lock function contrary to the user's intention, Flex mode may not be executed. In order for the user to execute Flex mode in the state shown in (c) of Figure 6, the screen lock function must be deactivated through the icon on the menu panel displayed at the top of the screen or the settings menu on the home screen.

According to this comparison technique, the user intends to execute flex mode because the display 610 is folded at a flex mode angle while holding the electronic device 600 in the horizontal direction, but as the screen lock function is activated, the user Contrary to intention, Flex mode may not run. Hereinafter, unlike the comparative technique of FIG. 6, various embodiments for appropriately controlling the screen lock function according to the user's intention and providing a screen in the intended operation mode accordingly will be described.

Figure 6 may correspond to comparative technology for various embodiments of the present disclosure, but is not recognized as prior art.

7 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 7, the electronic device 700 according to various embodiments may include a display 710, a sensor module 740, a communication module 770, a processor 750, and a memory 760. Even if some of the included components are omitted or replaced, various embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented. The electronic device 700 may further include the configuration and/or functions of the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1 . The electronic device 700 may include the structures of FIGS. 2A and 2B or FIGS. 3A and 3B.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 700 may be a foldable type electronic device 700 that can be completely folded. For example, the electronic device 700 has a structure that can be folded left/right based on the vertical folding axis A, like the electronic device 2 in FIGS. 2A and 2B, or the electronic device 700 in FIGS. 3A and 3B. Like the device 3, it may have a structure that can be folded down/up based on the horizontal folding axis (B). The exterior of the electronic device 700 may be formed as a foldable housing including a first housing and a second housing rotatably connected through a mutual hinge structure, and may be configured as shown and other configurations not shown. At least some of them may be placed in the first housing and the remaining part may be placed in the second housing.

According to various embodiments, the display 710 may display an image provided from the processor 750. The display 710 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, or a micro electromechanical system (micro). It may be implemented as either an electro mechanical systems (MEMS) display or an electronic paper display, but is not limited thereto. The display 710 may include a touch screen that detects a user's touch input.

According to various embodiments, the display 710 may be a foldable display that is made of at least a portion of a flexible material and can be folded about a folding axis. More specifically, the display 710 is folded in a direction in which the first display area and the second display area face each other based on the folding axis (or the border area between the first display area and the second display area). ) type foldable display. For example, the display 710 may be folded left/right based on the vertical folding axis A, like the first display module 24 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, or the first display module 24 of FIGS. 3A and 3B. Like the display module 34, it can be folded down/up based on the horizontal folding axis (B). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 700 includes a first housing and a second housing that are rotatably connected to each other through a hinge structure, and the folding axis of the display 710 may be formed on the hinge structure. The display 710 may be divided into a first display area disposed on the first housing and a second display area disposed on the second housing. The display 710 may include at least some of the configuration and/or functions of the display module 160 of FIG. 1, the first display module 24 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, or the first display module 24 of FIGS. 3A and 3B. It may include the structure of the display module 34.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 700 may further include a sub-display 710 (e.g., the second display module 25 in FIGS. 2A and 2B) disposed on the opposite side of the display 710 on the housing. You can.

According to various embodiments, the communication module 770 is used to wirelessly transmit and receive data with an external device (e.g., the first network 198, the second network 199, the external electronic device 102, etc. in FIG. 1). The configuration may include various circuit configurations such as a modem and a radio frequency front end (RFFE) module for performing wireless communication. The communication module 770 may support short-range wireless communications such as, for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared data association (IrDA), Zigbee, or HomeRF, 4G long term evolution (LTE), and 5G NR ( It can support cellular wireless communications such as new radio). The communication module 770 may include at least some of the configuration and/or functions of the communication module 190 of FIG. 1.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 700 may include a sensor module 740 that can detect the direction and/or movement of the electronic device 700. The sensor module 740 may include a plurality of sensors, for example, the electronic device 700 may include a gyro sensor 742 and an acceleration sensor 744, and the gyro sensor 742 and/or Based on the sensing value of the acceleration sensor 744, the relative direction (or angle) of the electronic device 700 with the ground and/or the moving speed and/or direction of movement when the electronic device 700 moves can be detected. . The electronic device 700 may include at least some of the configuration and/or functions of the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 .

According to various embodiments, the memory 760 may include known volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The memory 760 can store various instructions that can be executed by the processor 750. These instructions may include control commands such as arithmetic and logical operations, data movement, and input/output that can be recognized by the processor 750. The memory 760 may include at least a portion of the configuration and/or functions of the memory 130 of FIG. 1 and may store at least a portion of the program 140 of FIG. 1 .

According to various embodiments, the processor 750 is a component capable of performing operations or data processing related to control and/or communication of each component of the electronic device 700, and is one of the components of the processor 120 of FIG. 1. It may include at least some of them. The processor 750 operates operatively, electrically, and/or with internal components of the electronic device 700, such as the display 710, memory 760, sensor module 740, and communication module 770. Can be functionally connected.

According to various embodiments, there will be no limitation to the calculation and data processing functions that the processor 750 can implement within the electronic device 700, but in the present disclosure, the folding angle, mounting state, and/or execution of the display 710 Various embodiments for appropriately controlling the screen lock function according to the user's intention based on the application in progress and providing a screen in the intended operation mode accordingly will be described. Operations of the processor 750, which will be described later, may be performed by executing instructions stored in the memory 760.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 700 may support a screen lock function. Here, the screen lock function refers to the display direction (or This may be a function to set the orientation and layout not to change. The operation when the electronic device 700 is rotated to the horizontal direction in each case when the screen lock function is activated and deactivated has been previously described with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B.

According to various embodiments, when the electronic device 700 satisfies a set condition during folding, the electronic device 700 may execute a set operation mode. Here, the determined operation mode may be the flex mode described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B. For example, if the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area of the display 710 (or the angle formed by the first housing and the second housing) is within a predetermined angle range, the electronic device 700 may perform the currently running operation. If the application supports flex mode (e.g., media content application, message application, memo application, etc.), flex mode may be executed when the electronic device 700 is in a suspended state. The execution conditions of flex mode are not limited to this, and may be executed when only some conditions are met, or may be executed only when additional conditions are met.

Hereinafter, an operation of the electronic device 700 that executes a determined operation mode by temporarily disabling the screen lock function while the screen lock function is activated will be described.

According to various embodiments, the processor 750 may activate the screen lock function based on user input. When the display 710 is folded or unfolded by a user's manipulation, the processor 750 can check the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area (or the angle formed by the first housing and the second housing). there is. According to one embodiment, the sensor module 740 may include an angle sensor capable of measuring the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area in real time, and the angle sensor can detect the folding or unfolding of the display 710. It is activated during folding and can transmit the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area to the processor 750.

According to various embodiments, the processor 750 may temporarily disable the screen lock function when the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is within a predetermined reference range while the screen lock function is activated. . Here, the reference range may be 80 degrees to 130 degrees, but is not limited thereto.

According to one embodiment, the processor 750 may determine whether to temporarily deactivate the screen lock function based further on whether the electronic device 700 is in a stationary state. Here, the mounted state may be a state in which the electronic device 700 is placed on a table, the floor, the user's legs, etc., and is stably placed without significant movement in a state substantially parallel to the ground. To check whether the electronic device 700 is in a mounted state, the lower area of the first display area (or first housing) and the second display area (or second housing) of the display 710 is connected to the ground. It is possible to check whether the electronic device 700 is substantially parallel and/or whether the movement of the electronic device 700 is stable. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 700 uses the gyro sensor 742 and/or the acceleration sensor 744 to display at least one of the first display area (or first housing) and the second display area (or second housing). The angle that one makes with the ground is checked, and if the confirmed angle that the device makes with the ground is less than or equal to the reference angle, it can be determined that the electronic device 700 is in a mounted state. According to one embodiment, when the movement of the electronic device 700 confirmed using the gyro sensor 742 and/or the acceleration sensor 744 is less than or equal to a reference size (or reference speed), the electronic device ( 700) can be determined to be in a suspended state.

According to one embodiment, the processor 750 may determine whether to temporarily disable the screen lock function based on whether the running application is an application that supports a given operation mode (eg, flex mode). For example, media content applications (e.g., Figure 5a), message applications (e.g., Figure 5b), memo applications, etc. may support Flex mode, and the processor 750 may support Flex mode based on the setting information of each application. You can check whether the mode is supported.

According to one embodiment, the processor 750 reactivates the screen lock function according to a set condition (e.g., the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area according to the folding or unfolding of the display 710 is the standard out of range (e.g., 80 to 130 degrees), the current orientation of the display 710 does not correspond to a given orientation (e.g., landscape), and/or before the user selects the screen lock function icon. You can keep the screen lock function disabled.

According to various embodiments, while the screen lock function is temporarily disabled, the processor 750 determines the current orientation of the display 710, which is determined using the gyro sensor 742 and/or the acceleration sensor 744, in a determined direction ( (e.g. horizontal direction), a defined operation mode can be executed. For example, when the electronic device 700 is rotated while the display 710 is folded within the reference range, the processor 750 determines that the orientation of the display 710 has changed from portrait to landscape, and performs a prescribed operation. You can run the mod. Here, the determined operation mode may be flex mode, but is not limited thereto.

According to various embodiments, the processor 750 may execute a predetermined operation mode, change the display direction and/or layout of the application, and display it on the display 710. According to one embodiment, the execution screen of the application includes a first screen and a second screen, and when the orientation of the display 710 is vertical, the processor 750 divides the first screen into a portion of the first display area and It can be displayed over a part of the second display area, and the second screen can be displayed over another part of the first display area and another part of the second display area. When the orientation of the display 710 is changed to horizontal and a predetermined operation mode is executed, the processor 750 can display the first screen in the first display area and the second screen in the second display area. there is. The method of configuring the screen of the media content application and the screen of the message application when executing the flex mode have been described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, respectively. The operation of executing the flex mode when folding the above-described display 710 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B.

According to various embodiments, when the screen lock function is temporarily disabled, the processor 750 may display a graphical notification indicating temporary deactivation of the screen lock function. The processor 750 may display the graphic notification on the first display area or the second display area in a flex mode state. According to one embodiment, when executing the flex mode, the processor 750 reduces the size of the notification window that provides event information such as SMS/MMS reception notification, application push notification, and status notification of the electronic device 700. You can do it. The electronic device 700 may display operations that change according to execution of the flex mode, such as temporarily releasing the screen lock function or changing the size of the notification window, through the graphic notification. The graphic notification will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 9.

According to one embodiment, the processor 750 operates the display when the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is within the reference range due to the folding of the display 710 while the display 710 is inactive. (710) can be activated. According to one embodiment, the processor 750 may display a lock unlock screen on the display 710 when the display 710 is activated. This embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 10.

According to various embodiments, the processor 750 temporarily disables the screen lock function and executes a predetermined operation mode (e.g., flex mode), and according to the folding or unfolding of the display 710, the first display area and the If the angle formed by the second display area is outside the reference range (e.g., 80 degrees to 130 degrees) and the current orientation of the display 710 does not correspond to the specified direction (e.g., horizontal direction), reactivate the screen lock function. can do. This embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 11.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are diagrams illustrating temporary release of the screen lock function and flex mode operation when the electronic device is rotated, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8A illustrates the operation of the electronic device 800 (e.g., the electronic device 700 of FIG. 7) when the electronic device 800 (e.g., the electronic device 700 of FIG. 7) is in the portrait and unfolded states and the user rotates the electronic device 800 to the landscape after folding. I'm doing it.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 8A, the electronic device 800 may be arranged vertically in an unfolded state. The electronic device 800 is running a media content application that supports flex mode, and displays the entire first display area 820 and the second display area 830 of the display 810 (e.g., the display 710 of FIG. 7). The content screen 881 may be displayed on a portion of the screen, and the remaining screen 886 other than the content screen may be displayed on the second display area 830. The electronic device 800 may currently have the screen lock function activated according to the user's settings.

Referring to (b) of FIG. 8A, the user can fold the electronic device 800 while holding the electronic device 800 in the vertical direction. According to one embodiment, when the display 810 is folded, the electronic device 800 sets the angle formed by the first display area 820 and the second display area 830 (or the angle formed by the first housing and the second housing). You can check. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 800 may include an angle sensor capable of measuring the angle formed by the first display area 820 and the second display area 830 in real time.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 800 may check whether the angle formed by the first display area 820 and the second display area 830 is within a reference range. Here, the reference range is an angle range set as a standard for flex mode operation, and may be, for example, 80 degrees to 130 degrees, but is not limited thereto.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 800 may temporarily disable the screen lock function when the angle between the first display area 820 and the second display area 830 is within a reference range. In this case, the electronic device 800 can temporarily disable the screen lock function without a separate user input to change whether the screen lock function is activated.

Referring to (c) of FIG. 8A, the user can rotate the electronic device 800 in the horizontal direction while folding it within the reference range. The user can place the electronic device 800 after rotating it in the horizontal direction. Currently, the screen lock function of the electronic device 800 is temporarily disabled, and the electronic device 800 is rotated and the orientation is changed to horizontal, so the electronic device 800 can execute the flex mode. For example, the electronic device 800 rotates the screen of the running application in the horizontal direction and configures it in a landscape layout, and is located below (or on the floor) of the first display area 820 and the second display area 830. The remaining screens 887 (e.g., content-related information, selectable icons, etc.) other than the content screen are displayed on the second display area 830, and the content screen 882 is displayed on the first display area 820. can be provided.

FIG. 8B illustrates the operation of the electronic device 800 when the electronic device 800 is in the portrait and unfolded states and the user rotates the electronic device 800 to the landscape and then folds it.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 8B, the electronic device 800 may be arranged vertically in an unfolded state. The electronic device 800 may be running a media content application that supports flex mode and may currently have the screen lock function activated.

Referring to (b) of FIG. 8B, the user can rotate the electronic device 800 in the horizontal direction while maintaining the electronic device 800 in an unfolded state. Since the screen lock function is currently activated, even though the orientation of the electronic device 800 has changed to landscape, the screen configuration (e.g., screen orientation and layout) is not changed, and the screen displayed in portrait orientation remains the same. It can be displayed. Accordingly, from the user's perspective, the application screen may appear to be rotated by approximately 90 degrees.

Referring to (c) of FIG. 8B, the user can fold and place the electronic device 800 within a reference range. The electronic device 800 may check whether the angle formed by the first display area 820 and the second display area 830 is within the standard range, and if the angle is within the standard range, the screen lock function can be temporarily disabled. there is. Since the screen lock function has been temporarily disabled and the current orientation of the electronic device 800 is determined to be landscape, the electronic device 800 can execute flex mode.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 800 may determine whether to temporarily deactivate the screen lock function based further on whether the electronic device 800 is in a stationary state. Here, the mounted state may be a state in which the electronic device 800 is placed on a table, the floor, the user's legs, etc., and is stably placed without significant movement in a state substantially parallel to the ground. In order to check whether the electronic device 800 is in a mounted state, the electronic device 800 is installed at the bottom of the first display area 820 (or first housing) and the second display area 830 (or second housing) of the display 810. It can be confirmed whether the area placed on the side is substantially parallel to the ground and/or whether the movement of the electronic device 800 is stable. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 800 uses a gyro sensor and/or an acceleration sensor to display at least one of the first display area 820 (or first housing) and the second display area 830 (or second housing). The angle that one makes with the ground is checked, and if the confirmed angle that the device makes with the ground is less than or equal to the reference angle, it can be determined that the electronic device 800 is in a mounted state. According to one embodiment, when the movement of the electronic device 800 confirmed using a gyro sensor and/or an acceleration sensor is less than or equal to a reference size (or reference speed), the electronic device 800 is in a mounted state. It can be decided that According to this embodiment, the electronic device 800 is running an application that supports flex mode, and the angle formed by the first display area 820 and the second display area 830 (or the first housing and the second housing is The flex mode can be executed when the angle formed is within the reference range and the electronic device 800 is confirmed to be in a mounted state.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a notification window provided in the flex mode of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 900 (e.g., the electronic device 700 of FIG. 7) has the screen lock function temporarily released and enters the flex mode, as shown in (c) of FIG. 8A or (c) of FIG. 8B. When is executed, a graphical notification 990 indicating temporary release of the screen lock function may be displayed. The electronic device 900 may display the graphic notification 990 on the first display area 920 or the second display area 930 in the flex mode. For example, referring to FIG. 9, the electronic device 900 is placed on the floor and displays a pop-up screen on the second display area 930 that displays the remaining screens (e.g., content-related information, selectable icons, etc.) other than the content screen. A graphical notification 990 can be displayed in the form of a window.

According to one embodiment, when executing the flex mode, the electronic device 900 adjusts the size of the notification window that provides event information such as SMS/MMS reception notification, application push notification, and status notification of the electronic device 900. It can be reduced. The electronic device 900 may display operations that change according to execution of the flex mode, such as temporarily releasing the screen lock function or changing the size of the notification window, through the graphic notification 990.

According to one embodiment, when the screen lock function is activated again, the electronic device 900 may display a graphic notification 990 indicating activation of the screen lock function.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating operations when folding an electronic device in a screen-off state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 1000 displays the first display area 1020 and the second display area 1030 by folding the display 1010 when the display 1010 is in an inactive (or off) state. ) (or the angle formed by the first housing and the second housing) is within the reference range, the display 1010 can be activated. The electronic device 1000 may display an unlock screen when the display 1010 is activated.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 1000 may be set to deactivate the display 1010 in a fully folded state and activate the display 1010 when unfolded beyond a predetermined angle. Additionally, the electronic device 1000 may deactivate the display 1010 if there is no user input for more than a certain period of time while the display 1010 is activated.

Referring to FIG. 10, when the electronic device 1000 is folded by a user's operation while the electronic device 1000 is in an unfolded state and the display 1010 is deactivated, the electronic device 1000 displays the first display. It can be confirmed whether the angle formed by the area 1020 and the second display area 1030 (or the angle formed by the first housing and the second housing) is within the reference range. Here, the reference range may be 80 degrees to 130 degrees, which is the execution condition of flex mode. When activating the display 1010, the electronic device 1000 may display the home screen or the application screen that was displayed before deactivation on the display 1010.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 1000 checks whether the auto-wake setting is set, displays the home screen if the auto-wake setting is not set, and restarts the display 1010 when there is no user input for more than a certain period of time. It can be disabled.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 1000 may display an unlock screen on the display 1010 when the automatic wake-up setting is set. For example, the unlock screen may display an unlock pattern input window or a password input window, and if the lock is set to be unlocked without entering a pattern or password, the home screen may be displayed as is. According to this embodiment, when the electronic device 1000 is folded, the unlock screen may be displayed immediately without displaying the home screen.

According to one embodiment, when the electronic device 1000 is unlocked according to a user input (e.g., pattern input, password input, swipe input) while the lock unlock screen is displayed, the electronic device 1000 executes flex mode and performs the previous The screen of the application displayed in can be displayed separately in the first display area 1020 and the second display area 1030.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a process for resetting the screen lock function of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 1100 (e.g., the electronic device 700 of FIG. 7) is configured to fold or unfold the display 1110 while the screen lock function is temporarily released and the flex mode is running. Accordingly, the angle formed by the first display area 1120 and the second display area 1130 (or the angle formed by the first housing and the second housing) is outside the reference range, and/or the current orientation of the electronic device 1100 is incorrect. If you change to portrait orientation, you can re-enable the screen lock function.

Referring to (a) of FIG. 11, the screen lock function of the electronic device 1100 was previously activated, but the first display area 1120 and the second display area 1130 are displayed according to the folding of the display 1110. If the angle formed is within the reference range, an application that supports flex mode (e.g., a media application) is running, and/or the electronic device 1100 is in a suspended state, the screen lock function is temporarily disabled without user input. can do. Accordingly, the electronic device 1100 may execute the flex mode to display the content screen on the first display area 1120 and the remaining screen on the second display area 1130.

Referring to (b) of FIG. 11, the display 1110 is folded or unfolded so that the angle formed by the first display area 1120 and the second display area 1130 is outside the reference range, and the user uses the electronic device 1100. ) is rotated and recognized as vertical, the electronic device 1100 can activate the screen lock function again. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 1100 may display a graphic notification indicating activation of the screen lock function on the display 1110.

As such, when the screen lock function is activated again, the orientation and/or layout of the screen may not change according to the screen lock function even if the electronic device 1100 is rotated again to the horizontal direction.

An electronic device according to various embodiments includes a first housing, a second housing connected to the second housing through a hinge structure, a first display area disposed in the first housing, and a second display disposed in the second housing. A display that includes an area and can be folded based on a border area of the first display area and the second display area, at least one sensor, and is disposed in the first housing or the second housing, wherein the display and the It may include a processor operatively coupled to the gyro sensor.

According to various embodiments, the processor sets a screen to not change the direction and layout of the screen displayed on the display when the orientation of the display changes from portrait to landscape, based on user input. You can activate the lock function.

According to various embodiments, when folding or unfolding the display, the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is checked, and when the screen lock function is activated, the When the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is within the reference range, the screen lock function is temporarily deactivated, and in a state in which the screen lock function is temporarily deactivated, the sensing value of the at least one sensor Based on this, the current orientation of the display may be determined to be either horizontal or vertical, and if the current orientation of the display corresponds to the horizontal direction, a determined operation mode may be set to be executed.

According to various embodiments, the processor uses the at least one sensor to check the angle that at least one of the first display area or the second display area makes with the ground, and the confirmed angle with the ground is used as a reference. If the angle is below that, the screen lock function can be set to temporarily disable.

According to various embodiments, the processor may be set to temporarily disable the screen lock function when the movement of the electronic device confirmed using the at least one sensor is less than a standard size.

According to various embodiments, the processor may be set to disable the screen lock function when an application executing the predetermined operation mode is running.

According to various embodiments, the execution screen of the application includes a first screen and a second screen, and the processor, when the orientation of the display is determined to be vertical, displays the first screen in the first display area. The second screen is displayed over a portion of the first display area and a portion of the second display area, and the orientation of the display is changed to the horizontal direction. And, when the determined operation mode is executed, the first screen may be displayed on the first display area and the second screen may be displayed on the second display area.

According to various embodiments, when the orientation of the display is changed to the horizontal direction and the predetermined operation mode is executed, the processor determines at least one of the orientation or layout of the first screen corresponding to the first display area. and may be set to change at least one of the orientation or layout of the second screen in response to the second display area.

According to various embodiments, the application is an application that provides media content, the first screen may include a content screen, and the second screen may include the remaining screens provided by the application.

According to various embodiments, while the predetermined operation mode is being executed, the processor determines that an angle formed by the first display area and the second display area deviates from the reference range according to folding or unfolding of the display, And, if the current direction of the display does not correspond to a designated direction, the screen lock function may be set to be activated again.

According to various embodiments, the processor may be set to change the size of a notification window displayed according to a predetermined event while the predetermined operation mode is executed.

According to various embodiments, the processor activates the display when the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is within a reference range due to folding of the display while the display is inactive. It can be set to do so.

According to various embodiments, the processor may be set to display an unlock screen on the display when the display is activated.

According to various embodiments, when the display is folded, the first display area and the second display area may be folded in a direction where the first display area and the second display area face each other based on the boundary area.

Figure 12 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a screen lock function of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

The illustrated method can be performed by the electronic device described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 (e.g., the electronic device 700 of FIG. 7), and description of the technical features described above will be omitted below. .

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may be a foldable type electronic device that can be completely folded. For example, the display of an electronic device is in-folding, in which the first display area and the second display area are folded in a direction facing each other based on the folding axis (or the boundary area between the first display area and the second display area). ) type foldable display.

According to various embodiments, in operation 1210, the electronic device may activate a screen lock function. For example, the screen lock function prevents the electronic device from changing the display direction (or orientation) and layout of the screen displayed on the display when the display's orientation changes (e.g., when rotated from portrait to landscape). It could be a function.

According to various embodiments, in operation 1220, the electronic device may detect the folding of the display while the screen lock function is activated. For example, when folding or unfolding, the electronic device can measure the angle formed between the first display area and the second display area of the display in real time using an angle sensor.

According to various embodiments, in operation 1230, the electronic device may check whether the folding angle (or the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area) is within a reference range (eg, 80 degrees to 130 degrees). According to one embodiment, the electronic device can check the folding angle using an angle sensor.

According to various embodiments, in operation 1240, the electronic device may check whether the electronic device is in a mounted state. According to one embodiment, the electronic device is operated when the angle formed by at least one of the first display area (or first housing) and the second display area (or second housing) with the ground is below the standard, and/or the movement of the electronic device If it is less than this standard size, it may be determined that the electronic device is in a mounted state.

According to various embodiments, in operation 1250, the electronic device selects an application (e.g., a media content application (e.g., FIG. 5A) or a message application (e.g., FIG. 5b) that supports a predetermined operation mode (e.g., Flex mode). ), memo application, etc.). You can check whether Flex mode is supported based on the setting information of each application.

In FIG. 12 , the operation order of operations 1230, 1240, and 1250 may be changed, and at least some of them may be performed simultaneously.

According to various embodiments, if the conditions of operations 1230, 1240, and 1250 are satisfied, in operation 1260, the electronic device may temporarily disable the screen lock function. According to one embodiment, a graphic notification instructing to temporarily release the screen lock function may be displayed.

According to various embodiments, in operation 1270, the electronic device may check whether the orientation of the display is rotated from the portrait direction to the landscape direction.

According to various embodiments, when the display is rotated to the horizontal direction, in operation 1280, the electronic device configures the application screen in a predetermined operation mode and displays it on the display. According to one embodiment, the electronic device may change the display direction and/or layout of the application according to the flex mode and display it on the display. For example, when a specified operation mode is executed, the electronic device configures the first and second screens of the application in a landscape layout, displays the first screen in the first display area, and displays the second screen in the second display area. It can be displayed in the area.

According to various embodiments, if the screen lock function remains activated because the conditions of operations 1230, 1240, and 1250 are not satisfied, or the electronic device maintains the portrait orientation, in operation 1290, the electronic device locks the application. The display state can be maintained.

In a method for controlling a screen lock function of an electronic device according to various embodiments, the electronic device may include a display that can be folded based on a boundary area between a first display area and a second display area.

According to various embodiments, the method includes setting a screen so that the direction and layout of the screen displayed on the display do not change when the orientation of the display changes from vertical to horizontal, based on user input. An operation to activate the lock function, an operation to check the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area when folding or unfolding the display, while the screen lock function is activated , when the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is within a reference range, temporarily disabling the screen lock function, in a state in which the screen lock function is temporarily deactivated, at least one sensor It may include an operation of determining the current orientation of the display as either a horizontal or vertical direction based on the sensing value, and an operation of executing a determined operation mode when the current orientation of the display corresponds to the horizontal direction.

According to various embodiments, the method further includes an operation of checking an angle formed by at least one of the first display area or the second display area with the ground, and an operation of checking the movement of the electronic device, The operation of temporarily disabling the screen lock function may include temporarily disabling the screen lock function when the confirmed angle with the ground is less than or equal to a reference angle and the movement of the electronic device is less than or equal to the reference size.

According to various embodiments, the operation of temporarily disabling the screen lock function may include deactivating the screen lock function when an application executing the determined operation mode is running.

According to various embodiments, the execution screen of the application includes a first screen and a second screen, and the method includes, when the orientation of the display is determined to be vertical, the first screen is displayed in the first display area. An operation of displaying the second screen over a portion of the first display area and a portion of the second display area, and displaying the second screen over another part of the first display area and another part of the second display area, and the orientation of the display in the horizontal direction. and may further include displaying the first screen on the first display area and displaying the second screen on the second display area when the predetermined operation mode is executed.

According to various embodiments, the operation of executing the determined operation mode includes changing the orientation of the display to the horizontal direction, and when the determined operation mode is executed, the orientation of the first screen corresponding to the first display area. Alternatively, the operation may include changing at least one of the layout and changing at least one of the orientation or layout of the second screen in response to the second display area.

According to various embodiments, while the predetermined operation mode is being executed, an angle formed by the first display area and the second display area deviates from the reference range according to folding or unfolding of the display, and the angle of the display If the current direction does not correspond to the determined direction, the operation of re-activating the screen lock function may be further included.

According to various embodiments, when the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area becomes within a reference range due to folding of the display while the display is deactivated, an operation of activating the display is further performed. It can be included.

Claims (20)

In electronic devices,
first housing;
a second housing connected to the second housing through a hinge structure;
a display including a first display area disposed in the first housing and a second display area disposed in the second housing, the display being foldable based on a boundary area of the first display area and the second display area;
at least one sensor; and
a processor disposed within the first housing or the second housing and operatively connected to the display and the gyro sensor;
The processor,
Based on user input, activate a screen lock function that sets the orientation and layout of the screen displayed on the display not to change when the orientation of the display changes from portrait to landscape,
When folding or unfolding the display, check the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area,
When the screen lock function is activated and the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is within a reference range, temporarily disable the screen lock function,
With the screen lock function temporarily disabled, determine the current orientation of the display as either horizontal or vertical based on the sensing value of the at least one sensor, and
An electronic device configured to execute a defined operating mode when the current orientation of the display corresponds to a landscape orientation.
According to clause 1,
The processor,
Using the at least one sensor, check the angle between the first display area and the second display area with the ground,
An electronic device configured to temporarily disable the screen lock function when the confirmed angle with the ground is less than a reference angle.
According to claim 1 or 2,
The processor,
An electronic device configured to temporarily disable the screen lock function when the movement of the electronic device confirmed using the at least one sensor is less than a standard size.
According to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The processor,
An electronic device configured to disable the screen lock function when an application executing the determined operation mode is running.
According to clause 4,
The execution screen of the application includes a first screen and a second screen,
The processor,
When the orientation of the display is determined to be vertical, the first screen is displayed over a portion of the first display area and a portion of the second display area, and the second screen is displayed over another portion of the first display area. and displayed over another part of the second display area,
An electronic device configured to display the first screen on the first display area and the second screen on the second display area when the orientation of the display is changed to horizontal and the predetermined operation mode is executed. .
According to clause 5,
The processor,
When the orientation of the display is changed to the horizontal direction and the predetermined operation mode is executed, at least one of the orientation or layout of the first screen is changed corresponding to the first display area, and the orientation or layout of the first screen is changed corresponding to the second display area. An electronic device configured to change at least one of the orientation or layout of the second screen.
According to any one of claims 4 to 6,
The application is an application that provides media content,
The first screen includes a content screen, and the second screen includes remaining screens provided by the application.
According to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The processor,
In a state in which the predetermined operation mode is being executed, the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area deviates from the reference range according to the folding or unfolding of the display, and the current direction of the display is in the predetermined direction. An electronic device configured to re-enable the screen lock function if it does not respond.
According to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The processor,
An electronic device configured to change the size of a notification window displayed according to a predetermined event while the predetermined operation mode is being executed.
According to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The processor,
An electronic device configured to activate the display when the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area falls within a reference range due to folding of the display while the display is in a deactivated state.
According to clause 10,
The processor,
An electronic device configured to display an unlock screen on the display when the display is activated.
According to any one of claims 1 to 11,
The display is,
When folded, the electronic device folds in a direction where the first display area and the second display area face each other based on the boundary area.
In a method of controlling the screen lock function of an electronic device,
The electronic device includes a display that can be folded based on a boundary area between a first display area and a second display area,
The above method is,
Based on a user input, activating a screen lock function that sets the orientation and layout of the screen displayed on the display not to change when the orientation of the display changes from portrait to landscape;
An operation of checking an angle formed by the first display area and the second display area when folding or unfolding the display;
Temporarily deactivating the screen lock function when the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area is within a reference range while the screen lock function is activated;
An operation of determining the current orientation of the display as either a horizontal direction or a vertical direction based on a sensing value of at least one sensor while the screen lock function is temporarily deactivated; and
If the current orientation of the display corresponds to a landscape orientation, executing a predetermined operation mode.
According to clause 13,
Checking the angle between the first display area and the second display area with the ground; and
Further comprising the operation of checking movement of the electronic device,
The operation of temporarily disabling the screen lock function is:
A method comprising temporarily disabling the screen lock function when the confirmed angle with the ground is less than a reference angle and the movement of the electronic device is less than a reference size.
The method of claim 13 or 14,
The operation of temporarily disabling the screen lock function is:
A method comprising disabling the screen lock function when an application executing the determined operation mode is running.
According to clause 15,
The execution screen of the application includes a first screen and a second screen,
The method is:
When the orientation of the display is determined to be vertical, the first screen is displayed over a portion of the first display area and a portion of the second display area, and the second screen is displayed over another portion of the first display area. and an operation of displaying information over another portion of the second display area. and
When the orientation of the display is changed to the horizontal direction and the predetermined operation mode is executed, the operation of displaying the first screen in the first display area and displaying the second screen in the second display area is further performed. How to include it.
According to clause 16,
The operation of executing the above-described operation mode is,
When the orientation of the display is changed to the horizontal direction and the predetermined operation mode is executed, at least one of the orientation or layout of the first screen is changed corresponding to the first display area, and the orientation or layout of the first screen is changed corresponding to the second display area. A method including an operation of changing at least one of the orientation or layout of the second screen.
According to any one of claims 13 to 17,
In a state in which the predetermined operation mode is being executed, the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area deviates from the reference range according to the folding or unfolding of the display, and the current direction of the display is in the predetermined direction. If not applicable, the method further includes re-activating the screen lock function.
According to any one of claims 13 to 18,
The method further includes activating the display when the angle formed by the first display area and the second display area falls within a reference range due to folding of the display while the display is in a deactivated state.
A computer-readable recording medium storing instructions for executing the method of any one of claims 13 to 19.