Electronic device

Abstract

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes: a hinge housing that extends in a direction of a rotation axis; a first housing that is connected to one side of the hinge housing in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis to rotate about the rotation axis with respect to the hinge housing; a second housing that is connected to an opposite side of the hinge housing in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis to rotate about the rotation axis with respect to the hinge housing; and a flexible display that includes a bending region that is at least partially disposed in the hinge housing and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface, a first region that extends from the bending region in one direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, and a second region that extends from the bending region in an opposite direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10 - 2019 - 0052458, filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on May 3, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a display. Background art

[0004] A foldable electronic device may include a flexible display including a bending region where a part thereof can be deformed into a curved surface or a flat surface. The foldable electronic device may include a flat state for providing a large screen to a user and a folded state for providing mobility to the user.

[0005] The flexible display may include multiple layers. In a folded state, shear stress depending on the difference in the radius of curvature between the layers may be formed in the bending region of the flexible display. Therefore, the bending region may be more vulnerable to external impacts compared to other regions.

[0006] The above information is provided only as background information to assist in understanding the present disclosure. It is not determined and no assertion is made as to whether any of the above constitutes prior art with respect to the present disclosure. Summary of the invention

[0007] A foldable electronic device may include a flexible display and a housing structure in which the flexible display is mounted. In the case where an external impact (e.g., a drop impact) is applied to the foldable electronic device, shear stress may be generated between the housing structure and the flexible display. Such shear stress may reduce the surface quality of the flexible display. To mitigate the shear stress, the flexible display may be attached to the housing structure in a movably - attachable manner within a certain range.

[0008] In the case where an external impact (e.g., a drop impact) is applied to the foldable electronic device, the flexible display movably attached to the housing structure may collide with the internal structure of the housing structure. The housing structure formed of a rigid material may damage the flexible display. In particular, the bending region that is relatively vulnerable to impacts may be damaged.

[0009] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, to at least solve the above problems and / or disadvantages, an electronic device is provided. The above problems include at least the following advantages. Thus, an aspect of the present disclosure provides an electronic device for preventing a flexible display from colliding with a rigid structure in a housing structure and absorbing an external impact.

[0010] Other aspects will be set forth in part in the following description, and in part will become apparent from the following description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

[0011] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes: a hinge housing extending in a direction of a rotation axis; a first housing connected to one side of the hinge housing in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis to rotate about the rotation axis with respect to the hinge housing; a second housing connected to an opposite side of the hinge housing in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis to rotate about the rotation axis with respect to the hinge housing; and a flexible display including a bent region at least partially disposed in the hinge housing and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface, a first region extending from the bent region in one direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, and a second region extending from the bent region in an opposite direction perpendicular to the rotation axis. The hinge housing includes: a protruding portion formed at opposite ends of the hinge housing in the direction of the rotation axis and adjacent to a periphery of the flexible display; and a buffer member disposed between the protruding portion and the periphery of the flexible display and spaced apart from the periphery of the flexible display by a certain gap.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes: a housing structure including a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge housing disposed between the first housing and the second housing, wherein the first housing and the second housing are configured to fold with respect to each other about a folding axis aligned with the hinge housing; a flexible display including a bent region at least partially disposed in the hinge housing and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface, a first region extending from the bent region and disposed in the first housing, and a second region extending from the bent region and disposed in the second housing; and a shock absorption structure configured to absorb an impact applied to the flexible display. The hinge housing includes a sidewall at least a part of which faces a direction of the folding axis. The shock absorption structure includes a shock absorption member formed between the sidewall and the periphery of the flexible display.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes: a flexible display including a first region formed as a flat surface, a second region formed as a flat surface, and a bent region formed between the first region and the second region and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface; a housing structure surrounding a periphery of the flexible display and including a frame structure spaced apart from the periphery by a first gap; and a shock absorption structure including a shock absorption member formed between the frame structure and the periphery of the flexible display and spaced apart from the periphery by a second gap smaller than the first gap.

[0014] Various embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and other aspects, advantages, and notable features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Description of the Drawings

[0015] Through the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent, where:

[0016] Figure 1 is a view showing the flat state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 2 is a view showing an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 in a folded state;

[0018] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 4A and Figure 4B are views showing the folded state and the flat state of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 5A and Figure 5B are cross-sectional views showing the folded state and the flat state of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 6 is a view showing a hinge housing of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 7A and Figure 7B are views showing a buffer member and a protruding portion of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 8 is a view showing a flexible display and a hinge housing of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 9A 、 Figure 9B and Figure 9C are views showing a hinge housing and a flexible display of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 10A 、 Figure 10B and Figure 10C are views showing a flexible display and a buffer member in the case where an electronic device drops according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 11is a view showing a drop impact on a flexible display of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 12A 、 Figure 12B and Figure 12C are views showing the assembly of a buffer member and a hinge housing of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 13A 、 Figure 13B and Figure 13C are views showing a buffer member and a hinge housing of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 14 is a view showing a buffer member and a hinge housing of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 15A 、 Figure 15B and Figure 15C are views showing a shock absorption structure of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0031] Figure 16 is a view showing a buffer member and a hinge housing of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that the same reference numerals are used to describe the same or similar elements, features, and structures. Detailed Description

[0033] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings helps to comprehensively understand various embodiments of the present disclosure defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in understanding, but these details are only considered exemplary. Thus, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Additionally, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0034] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the written meanings, but are used by the inventors only to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. Thus, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of the various embodiments of the present disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the present disclosure defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0035] It should be understood that, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" also include plural referents. Thus, for example, reference to "a component surface" includes reference to one or more of these surfaces.

[0036] Figure 1 is a view showing a flat state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 is a view showing an Figure 1 electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in a folded state.

[0038] Referring Figure 1 , the electronic device 100 may include: a pair of housing structures 110 and 120 (e.g., foldable housing structures) that are attached to pivot relative to each other about a hinge structure (e.g., Figure 3 hinge structure 164); a hinge cover (e.g., Figure 4A hinge cover 165) that covers a foldable portion of the pair of housing structures 110 and 120; and a display 130 (e.g., a flexible display or a foldable display) that is disposed in a space formed by the pair of housing structures 110 and 120. In the present disclosure, a surface on which the display 130 is disposed may be defined as a front surface of the electronic device 100, and a surface opposite to the front surface may be defined as a rear surface of the electronic device 100. In addition, a surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the rear surface may be defined as a side surface of the electronic device 100.

[0039] The pair of housing structures 110 and 120 may include a first housing structure 110 having a sensor area 131d, a second housing structure 120, a first rear cover 140, and a second rear cover 150. The pair of housing structures 110 and 120 of the electronic device 100 is not limited to Figure 1 and Figure 2 the forms and attachments shown, and may be implemented by combining and / or attaching other shapes or components. For example, the first housing structure 110 and the first rear cover 140 may be integrated with each other, and the second housing structure 120 and the second rear cover 150 may be integrated with each other.

[0040] The first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may be disposed on opposite sides of the folding axis (axis F), and may have shapes that are completely symmetric with respect to each other with respect to the folding axis (axis F). The angle or distance formed by the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may vary depending on whether the electronic device 100 is in a flat state or a closed state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. Different from the second housing structure 120, the first housing structure 110 may additionally include a sensor area 131d provided with various sensors, but may have a symmetric shape with each other in other areas. The sensor area 131d may be additionally provided in at least a part of the area of the second housing structure 120, or may be replaced by at least a part of the area of the second housing structure 120.

[0041] The first housing structure 110 may be connected to a hinge structure (e.g., Figure 3 hinge structure 164) in the flat state of the electronic device 100, and may include a first surface 111 disposed to face the front surface of the electronic device 100, a second surface 112 facing away from the first surface 111, and a first side member 113 surrounding at least a part of the space between the first surface 111 and the second surface 112. The first side member 113 may include a first side surface 113a disposed parallel to the folding axis (axis F), a second side surface 113b extending from one end of the first side surface 113a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and a third side surface 113c extending from the other end of the first side surface 113a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (axis F).

[0042] The second housing structure 120 may be connected to a hinge structure (e.g., Figure 3 hinge structure 164) in the flat state of the electronic device 100, and may include a third surface 121 disposed to face the front surface of the electronic device 100, a fourth surface 122 facing away from the third surface 121, and a second side member 123 surrounding at least a part of the space between the third surface 121 and the fourth surface 122. The second side member 123 may include a fourth side surface 123a disposed parallel to the folding axis (axis F), a fifth side surface 123b extending from one end of the fourth side surface 123a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (axis F), and a sixth side surface 123c extending from the other end of the fourth side surface 123a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (axis F). In an embodiment, the third surface 121 may face the first surface 111 in the folded state.

[0043] The electronic device 100 may include a recess 101 formed to accommodate a display 130 by being structurally coupled with a first housing structure 110 and a second housing structure 120. The recess 101 may have substantially the same size as the display 130. Due to the sensor area 131d, the recess 101 may have two or more different widths in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (axis F). For example, the recess 101 may have a first width W1 between a first portion 120a of the second housing structure 120 parallel to the folding axis (axis F) and a first portion 110a of the first housing structure 110 formed on the periphery of the sensor area 131d, and a second width W2 between a second portion 120b of the second housing structure 120 and a second portion 110b of the first housing structure 110 that does not correspond to the sensor area 131d and is parallel to the folding axis (axis F). In this case, the second width W2 may be formed to be greater than the first width W1. For example, the recess 101 may be formed to have a first width W1 between a first portion 110a of the first housing structure 110 and a first portion 120a of the second housing structure 120 that are asymmetric in shape, and a second width W2 between a second portion 110b of the first housing structure 110 and a second portion 120b of the second housing structure 120 that are symmetric in shape.

[0044] The first portion 110a and the second portion 110b of the first housing structure 110 may be formed to be at different distances from the folding axis (axis F). The width of the recess 101 is not limited to the illustrated example. Due to the shape of the sensor area 131d or portions of the asymmetric shapes of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120, the recess 101 may have two or more different widths.

[0045] At least a portion of the first housing structure 110 and at least a portion of the second housing structure 120 may be formed of a rigid metal material or a non-metal material selected to support the display 130.

[0046] The sensor area 131d may be formed to have a specific area adjacent to one corner of the first housing structure 110. However, the setting, shape, or size of the sensor area 131d is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, the sensor area 131d may be provided in another corner of the first housing structure 110 or in any area between the upper and lower corners of the first housing structure 110. In another embodiment, the sensor area 131d may be provided in at least a part of the second housing structure 120. The sensor area 131d may be provided to extend to the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. The electronic device 100 may include components that perform various functions and are provided to be exposed on the front surface of the electronic device 100 through the sensor area 131d or through one or more openings formed in the sensor area 131d. In various embodiments, these components may include, for example, at least one of a front camera device, a receiver, a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, an iris recognition sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an indicator.

[0047] The first rear cover 140 may be provided on the second surface 112 of the first housing structure 110 and may have a substantially rectangular perimeter. At least a part of the perimeter may be surrounded by the first housing structure 110. Similarly, the second rear cover 150 may be provided on the fourth surface 122 of the second housing structure 120, and at least a part of the perimeter of the second rear cover 150 may be surrounded by the second housing structure 120.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the first rear cover 140 and the second rear cover 150 may have a substantially symmetric shape with respect to the folding axis (axis F). In other embodiments, the first rear cover 140 and the second rear cover 150 may include various different shapes. The first rear cover 140 may be integrated with the first housing structure 110, and the second rear cover 150 may be integrated with the second housing structure 120.

[0049] The first rear cover 140, the second rear cover 150, the first housing structure 110, and the second housing structure 120 may provide a space in which various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, an antenna module, a sensor module, or a battery) of the electronic device 100 are provided through a mutually attached structure. One or more components may be provided on the rear surface of the electronic device 100 or one or more components may be visually exposed. For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the first rear area 141 of the first rear cover 140. The sensors may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera device, and / or a flash. At least a part of the sub-display 152 may be visually exposed through the second rear area 151 of the second rear cover 150. The electronic device 100 may include a speaker module 153 provided through at least a part of the second rear cover 150.

[0050] The display 130 may be disposed in a space formed by a pair of housing structures 110 and 120. For example, the display 130 may be mounted in a recess 101 formed by a pair of housing structures 110 and 120 and may be set to substantially occupy the entire front surface of the electronic device 100. Accordingly, the front surface of the electronic device 100 may include the display 130, a partial region (e.g., a peripheral region) of the first housing structure 110 adjacent to the display 130, and a partial region (e.g., a peripheral region) of the second housing structure 120 adjacent to the display 130. The rear surface of the electronic device 100 may include a first rear cover 140, a partial region (e.g., a peripheral region) of the first housing structure 110 adjacent to the first rear cover 140, a second rear cover 150, and a partial region (e.g., a peripheral region) of the second housing structure 120 adjacent to the second rear cover 150.

[0051] The display 130 may refer to a display at least a part of whose area can be deformed into a flat surface or a curved surface. In an embodiment, the display 130 may include a folding region 131c, a first region 131a disposed on one side of the folding region 131c (e.g., the right side of the folding region 131c), and a second region 131b disposed on the opposite side of the folding region 131c (e.g., the left side of the folding region 131c). For example, the first region 131a may be disposed on the first surface 111 of the first housing structure 110, and the second region 131b may be disposed on the third surface 121 of the second housing structure 120. In an embodiment, the regional division of the display 130 is exemplary, and the display 130 may be divided into a plurality of regions (e.g., four or more regions, or two regions) according to the structure or function of the display 130. For example, in Figure 1 the illustrated embodiment, the respective regions of the display 130 may be separated by the folding region 131c or a folding axis (axis F) extending parallel to the y-axis. However, in another embodiment, the display 130 may be divided into a plurality of regions with respect to a different folding region (e.g., a folding region parallel to the x-axis) or a different folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the x-axis). The above regional division of the display 130 may be merely a physical division by a pair of housing structures 110 and 120 and a hinge structure (e.g., Figure 3 the hinge structure 164), and may display a full screen on the display 130 substantially by a pair of housing structures 110 and 120 and a hinge structure (e.g., Figure 3 the hinge structure 164).

[0052] The first region 131a and the second region 131b may have shapes that are completely symmetric to each other with respect to the folding region 131c. However, unlike the second region 131b, the first region 131a may include a recessed region (e.g., Figure 3 the recessed region 133) that is cut according to the presence of the sensor region 131d, but in another region, the first region 131a may have a shape symmetric to the second region 131b. For example, the first region 131a and the second region 131b may include a portion with a symmetric shape and a portion with an asymmetric shape.

[0053] Reference Figure 2 , a hinge cover 165 may be disposed between the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120, and may be configured to hide internal components (e.g., Figure 3 the hinge structure 164). In an embodiment, according to the operating state (flat state or folded state) of the electronic device 100, the hinge cover 165 may be hidden by a portion of the first housing structure 110 and a portion of the second housing structure 120, or may be exposed to the outside.

[0054] For example, when the electronic device 100 is in the flat state as shown in Figure 1 , as shown in Figure 1 , the hinge cover 165 may not be exposed by being hidden by the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. In another example, when the electronic device 100 is in the folded state (e.g., fully folded state), as shown in Figure 2 , the hinge cover 165 may be exposed to the outside from between the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. In another example, when the electronic device 100 is in an intermediate state where the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 are folded at a certain angle, the hinge cover 165 may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device 100 from between the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. In this case, the exposed area may be smaller than the exposed area in the fully folded state. In an embodiment, the hinge cover 165 may include a curved surface.

[0055] Hereinafter, the operations of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 and the regions of the display 130 depending on the operating state (e.g., flat state or folded state) of the electronic device 100 will be described.

[0056] When the electronic device 100 is in the flat state (e.g., Figure 1In the case where the electronic device 100 is in a folded state (e.g.,

[0057] the state), the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 can form an angle of 180 degrees, and the first region 131a and the second region 131b of the display 130 can be set to face the same direction. In addition, the folding region 131c together with the first region 131a and the second region 131b can form the same plane. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, when the electronic device 100 is in a flat state, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 can rotate relative to each other by an angle of 360 degrees and can be folded in the opposite direction such that the second surface 112 and the fourth surface 122 face each other. Figure 2 the state), the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 can be set to face each other. The first region 131a and the second region 131b of the display 130 can face each other while forming a narrow angle (e.g., an angle between 0 degrees and 10 degrees). At least a part of the folding region 131c can be formed as a curved surface having a certain curvature.

[0058] When the electronic device 100 is in an intermediate state, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 can be set at a certain angle. The first region 131a and the second region 131b of the display 130 can form an angle greater than the angle in the folded state and less than the angle in the flat state. At least a part of the folding region 131c can be formed as a curved surface having a certain curvature, and in this case, the curvature can be less than the curvature in the folded state.

[0059] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Referring to Figure 3 , in an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include a display 130, a support member assembly 160, at least one printed circuit board 170, a first housing structure 110, a second housing structure 120, a first rear cover 140, and a second rear cover 150. In the present disclosure, the display 130 may be referred to as a display module or a display assembly.

[0061] The display 130 may include a display panel 131 (e.g., a flexible display panel) and one or more boards 132 or layers on which the display panel 131 is mounted. In an embodiment, the board 132 may be disposed between the display panel 131 and the support member assembly 160. The display panel 131 may be disposed on at least a part of one surface of the board 132. The board 132 may include a first board 1321 and a second board 1322 that are separated from each other with respect to the hinge structure 164. When the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 are rotated with respect to the hinge structure 164 into a folded and / or flat state, the board 132 may include at least one member that cannot be folded together. The board 132 may include at least one auxiliary material layer (e.g., a graphite member) and / or a conductive plate (e.g., a copper sheet) disposed on the rear surface of the display panel 131. The board 132 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the display panel 131. For example, a partial region of the first board 1321 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the concave region 133 of the display panel 131.

[0062] The support member assembly 160 may include a first support member 161, a second support member 162, a hinge structure 164 disposed between the first support member 161 and the second support member 162, a hinge cover 165 that covers the hinge structure 164 when viewed from the outside, and at least one wiring member 163 (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) that spans across the first support member 161 and the second support member 162.

[0063] The support member assembly 160 may be disposed between the board 132 and at least one printed circuit board 170. For example, the first support member 161 may be disposed between the first region 131a of the display 130 and the first printed circuit board 171. The second support member 162 may be disposed between the second region 131b of the display 130 and the second printed circuit board 172.

[0064] At least a part of the wiring member 163 and the hinge structure 164 may be disposed within the support member assembly 160. The wiring member 163 may be disposed in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) that spans across the first support member 161 and the second support member 162. The wiring member 163 may be disposed in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) perpendicular to the folding axis (e.g., Figure 1 the y-axis or the folding axis F) of the folding region 131c.

[0065] As described above, at least one printed circuit board 170 may include a first printed circuit board 171 disposed on one side of the first support member 161 and a second printed circuit board 172 disposed on one side of the second support member 162. The first printed circuit board 171 and the second printed circuit board 172 may be disposed in a space formed by the support member assembly 160, the first housing structure 110, the second housing structure 120, the first rear cover 140, and the second rear cover 150. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device 100 may be mounted on the first printed circuit board 171 and the second printed circuit board 172.

[0066] The first housing structure 110 may include the first printed circuit board 171, the battery 119, at least one sensor module 181, or at least one camera module 182 disposed in a space formed by the first support member 161. The first housing structure 110 may include a window glass 183 disposed at a position corresponding to the recessed area 133 of the display 130 and configured to protect at least one sensor module 181 and at least one camera module 182. The second housing structure 120 may include the second printed circuit board 172 disposed in a space formed by the second support member 162. The first housing structure 110 and the first support member 161 may be integrated with each other. The second housing structure 120 and the second support member 162 may also be integrated with each other.

[0067] The first housing structure 110 may include a first rotational support surface 114, and the second housing structure 120 may include a second rotational support surface 124 corresponding to the first rotational support surface 114. The first rotational support surface 114 and the second rotational support surface 124 may include curved surfaces corresponding to the curved surface included in the hinge cover 165.

[0068] When the electronic device 100 is in a flat state (e.g., Figure 1 the state), the first rotational support surface 114 and the second rotational support surface 124 may cover the hinge cover 165 so that the hinge cover 165 is not exposed through the rear surface of the electronic device 100 or is minimally exposed. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, when the electronic device 100 is in a folded state (e.g., Figure 2 the state), the first rotational support surface 114 and the second rotational support surface 124 may rotate along the curved surface included in the hinge cover 165 to maximally expose the hinge cover 165 through the rear surface of the electronic device 100.

[0069] Figure 4A and Figure 4B are views showing the folded state and the flat state of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0070] ReferenceFigure 4A and Figure 4B , the electronic device 100 disclosed in this document may include a folded state ( Figure 4A ) and a flat state ( Figure 4B ). The folded state ( Figure 4A ) and the flat state ( Figure 4B ) may be defined according to whether the hinge cover 165 forms the exterior of the electronic device 100, whether the folding area (e.g., Figure 3 's folding area 131c) of the flexible display (e.g., Figure 3 's flexible display 130) is bent, or the positional relationship between the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the folded state (e.g., Figure 4A ) may include a state in which the hinge cover 165 of the electronic device 100 is exposed between the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. In this case, the hinge cover 165 may form a part of the exterior (e.g., the rear surface) of the electronic device 100.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the flat state ( Figure 4B ) may include a state in which the hinge cover 165 of the electronic device 100 is completely hidden by the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. In this case, the hinge cover 165 may be accommodated in the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 and may not form the exterior of the electronic device 100.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may rotate by a certain angle about the hinge cover 165. The folding axis (axis F) of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may extend in a direction parallel to the direction in which the hinge cover 165 extends. The folding axis (axis F) may be formed by the above-described hinge structure (e.g., Figure 3 's hinge structure 164). The folding axis (axis F) may refer to a virtual axis about which the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 rotate. In the folded state, the folding axis (axis F) may be formed between the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. The folding axis (axis F) may be formed at a position spaced apart from the hinge cover 165 by a certain distance d in the direction toward the front surface of the electronic device 100.

[0074] The electronic device 100 disclosed in this document may include one or more folding axes (axis F). For example, the folding axis (axis F) may include a first folding axis (axis Fa) around which the first housing structure 110 rotates and a second folding axis (axis Fb) around which the second housing structure 120 rotates. In this case, the first folding axis (axis Fa) and the second folding axis (axis Fb) may extend parallel to each other.

[0075] The first housing structure 110 may rotate around the first folding axis Fa along an arc path. The second housing structure 120 may rotate around the second folding axis Fb along an arc path. The first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may rotate in opposite directions.

[0076] The folding axis F disclosed in this document may refer to the central axis around which the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 fold or unfold (folding state or flat state), rather than a transmission shaft (e.g., pivot) that can be physically driven. For example, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may rotate around the first folding axis Fa and the second folding axis Fb along arc paths in opposite directions, respectively. Therefore, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may fold around the folding axis F.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing structure 110 may include a first rear cover 140 that forms the rear surface of the electronic device 100 and a rear portion area 141 formed on the first rear cover 140. The first housing structure 110 may be connected to one side of the hinge cover 165 in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (axis F). The first housing structure 110 may rotate around the illustrated folding axis (axis F) relative to the hinge cover 165.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the second housing structure 120 may include a second rear cover 150 that forms the rear surface of the electronic device 100 and a rear display area 152 and / or a rear sensor area 154 formed on the second rear cover 150. The second housing structure 120 may be connected to the opposite side of the hinge cover 165 in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (axis F). The second housing structure 120 may rotate around the illustrated folding axis (axis F) relative to the hinge cover 165.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge cover 165 may extend in the direction of the folding axis (axis F). The hinge cover 165 may include a curved surface whose curvature corresponds to the rotation curvature of the first housing structure 110 or the second housing structure 120.

[0080] Figure 5A and Figure 5B are cross-sectional views showing the folding state and the flat state of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5A is along Figure 4AA cross-sectional view taken along line A-A'. Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 4B line B-B'.

[0081] Referring to Figure 5A and Figure 5B , the electronic device 200 may include a folded state ( Figure 5A ) and a flat state ( Figure 5B ). The folded state ( Figure 5A ) may include a state in which the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 is formed into a curved surface. The flat state ( Figure 5B ) may include a state in which the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 is formed into a flat surface.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible display 250 may include a first region 251 formed into a flat surface, a second region 252 formed into a flat surface, and a folding region 253 capable of being deformed into a flat surface or a curved surface.

[0083] The folded state of the electronic device 200 may include a state in which the folding region 253 is formed into a curved surface having a certain curvature. In this case, the first region 251 and the second region 252 may be arranged such that their normal vectors form a certain angle other than 0 degrees.

[0084] The flat state of the electronic device 200 may include a state in which the folding region 253 forms substantially the same plane as the first region 251 and the second region 252. For example, in the flat state, the first region 251 and the second region 252 may face the same direction (e.g., the direction toward the front surface of the electronic device). In the flat state, the first region 251 and the second region 252 may be arranged such that their normal vectors form 0 degrees.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible display 250 may further include metal layers 254 and 255. The metal layers 254 and 255 may support the rear surface of the flexible display 250 to allow the flexible display 250 to remain flat in the flat state. The metal layers 254 and 255 may include a first metal layer 254 attached to the rear surface of the first region 251 and having a portion extending to the folding region 253 and a second metal layer 255 attached to the rear surface of the second region 252 and having a portion extending to the folding region 253. The first metal layer 254 and the second metal layer 255 may be separated from the rear surface of the folding region 253. Accordingly, in the folded state, the first metal layer 254 and the second metal layer 255 may be formed as flat surfaces extending from the first region 251 and the second region 252 and facing each other. In the folded state, the first metal layer 254 and the second metal layer 255 may extend in the tangential direction of the folding region 253. At least a portion of the first metal layer 254 and at least a portion of the second metal layer 255 may be received in a third recess 2331 formed in the hinge housing 230.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, in the folded state, the flexible display 250 may be disposed such that at least a portion of the folding region 253 is received in the hinge housing 230. When viewed in the direction of the folding axis F, at least a portion of the folding region 253 may overlap with the protruding portion 234 of the hinge housing 230.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 210 may include a first rear cover 218 which forms the rear surface of the electronic device 200 in the flat state ( Figure 5B ). In the flat state, the first rear cover 218 may face the first region 251 of the flexible display 250. A first recess 219 may be formed between the first rear cover 218 and the first region 251.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 210 may include a first recess 219, and at least a portion of the hinge housing 230 is received in the first recess 219. The first recess 219 may be formed in a shape opening toward the hinge housing 230. In this case, the first recess 219 may include a first rotation support surface 217 which includes a curved surface having a curvature corresponding to the rotation curvature of the first housing 210.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the second housing 220 may include a second rear cover 228 which forms the rear surface of the electronic device 200 in the flat state ( Figure 5B)。In the flat state, the second rear cover 228 can be opposite to the second region 252 of the flexible display 250. A second recess 229 can be formed between the second rear cover 228 and the second region 252.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the second housing 220 can include the second recess 229, and at least a part of the hinge housing 230 is received in the second recess 229. The second recess 229 can be formed in a shape that opens toward the hinge housing 230. In this case, the second recess 229 can include a second rotation support surface 227, and the second rotation support surface 227 includes a curved surface having a curvature corresponding to the rotation curvature of the second housing 220.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, in the flat state, a part of the hinge housing 230 can be disposed in the first recess 219, and the remaining part of the hinge housing 230 can be disposed in the second recess 229. Accordingly, the hinge housing 230 can not be exposed to the outside of the electronic device 200. In the folded state, the hinge housing 230, together with the first housing 210 and the second housing 220, can form a part of the outside of the electronic device 200.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge housing 230 can include a first surface 231 facing the rear surface of the flexible display 250 in the flat state, a second surface 232 opposite to the first surface 231 and having at least a part formed as a curved surface, and an inner surface 233 forming a third recess 2331. The third recess 2331 that houses a part of the first metal layer 254 and a part of the second metal layer 255 in the folded state can be formed on the first surface 231. A protruding portion 234 facing the periphery of the flexible display 250 can be formed on the first surface 231 of the hinge housing 230. The protruding portion 234 can protrude from the first surface 231 of the hinge housing 230 in a direction facing the flexible display 250 (for example, in the direction toward the front surface) with respect to the flat state. When viewed in the direction of the folding axis F, the protruding portion 234 can be formed to overlap at least a part of the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250. In the flat state, when viewed in the direction of the folding axis F, the protruding portion 234 can be formed to overlap the folding region 253, a part of the first region 251, and a part of the second region 252.

[0093] Figure 6 is a view showing a hinge housing 230 of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] Reference Figure 6, the hinge housing 230 may be formed in a shape extending in the folding axis direction F. The hinge housing 230 may include a side wall 235 extending from the second surface 232 and including a protruding portion 234. The side wall 235 and the inner surface 233 may together form an internal space 2332 of the hinge housing 230.

[0095] A part of the hinge structure (e.g., Figure 3 the hinge structure 164) and / or a part of the connection member (e.g., Figure 3 the wiring member 163) may be disposed in the internal space 2332.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the side wall 235 may include a first side wall 235-1 and a second side wall 235-2 facing the first side wall 235-1. A part of the flexible display 250 may be disposed between the first side wall 235-1 and the second side wall 235-2. For example, the folding region 253 may be disposed between the first side wall 235-1 and the second side wall 235-2.

[0097] The first side wall 235-1 may include a first protruding portion 234-1 protruding toward the front surface of the electronic device 200. The first protruding portion 234-1 may include a surface facing the folding axis direction F. The first protruding portion 234-1 may face a first edge 250-1 of the flexible display 250. The first edge 250-1 may include an edge extending in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis direction F among the edges of the flexible display 250.

[0098] The second side wall 235-2 may include a second protruding portion 234-2 protruding toward the front surface of the electronic device 200. The second protruding portion 234-2 may include a surface facing the folding axis direction F. The second protruding portion 234-2 may face a second edge 250-2 of the flexible display 250. The second edge 250-2 may include an edge extending in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis direction F among the edges of the flexible display 250. The second edge 250-2 may be opposite to and parallel to the first edge 250-1.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the protruding portion 234 may further include a buffer member 240 formed toward the flexible display 250. The buffer member 240 may be disposed between the edges 250-1 and 250-2 of the flexible display 250 and the protruding portion 234 to prevent the flexible display 250 from directly colliding with the protruding portion 234.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the buffer member 240 may include a first buffer member 240-1 disposed between the first edge 250-1 of the flexible display 250 and the first protruding portion 234-1, and a second buffer member 240-2 disposed between the second edge 250-2 of the flexible display 250 and the second protruding portion 234-2. The first buffer member 240-1 and the second buffer member 240-2 may absorb a part of the impact applied to the flexible display 250.

[0101] Figure 7A and Figure 7B are views showing a buffer member and a protruding portion of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0102] Reference Figure 7A and Figure 7B , the buffer member 240 may include a first portion 241 and a second portion 242 extending from the first portion 241. The first portion 241 may include a bonding surface 245 attached to the bottom surface of the first recess 237 of the protruding portion 234 and an opposite surface 243 opposite to the bonding surface 245 and facing the inner space 2332 of the hinge housing 230. The bonding surface 245 may include an adhesive member 244 on at least a part of its area. The bonding surface 245 may be attached to the bottom surface of the first recess 237 of the protruding portion 234 through the adhesive member 244. The second portion 242 may be received in a second recess 239 formed on the inner surface 233 of the hinge housing 230. The second portion 242 may include a seating surface 246 seated on the bottom surface 2391 of the second recess 239.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the opposite surface 243 may include a first region 243-1 facing the folding axis direction F and a second region 243-2 extending from the first region 243-1 and inclined with respect to the folding axis directions F1 and F2. The first portion 241 may be formed such that the thickness of the part forming the first region 243-1 is greater than the thickness of the part forming the second region 243-2. That is, the second region 243-2 may extend obliquely from the first region 243-1 to have a gradually decreasing distance to the bonding surface 245.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge housing 230 may include a first recess 237 in which the first portion 241 is received and a second recess 239 in which the second portion 242 is received. The bonding surface 245 of the first portion 241 may be attached to the bottom surface of the first recess 237. The second recess 239 may be formed in a shape that opens in the folding axis direction F2. For example, the second recess 239 may be formed in a shape that opens toward the inner space 2332 of the hinge housing 230. This may correspond to the sliding direction and the compression direction of the buffer member 240, as will be described below with reference toFigures 10A to 10C Description. The placement surface 246 of the second part 242 can be placed on the bottom surface 2391 of the second recess 239. The bottom surface 2391 of the second recess 239 can be formed at a position lower than the surrounding area. The bottom surface 2391 of the second recess 239 can be formed to be longer than the placement surface 246 of the buffer member 240 in the folding axis direction (e.g., direction F2). The bottom surface 2391 of the second recess 239 and the side walls 2392 and 2393 can be formed (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis directions F1 and F2) to have a width corresponding to the placement surface 246 of the buffer member 240. Therefore, since the second recess 239 opens in the folding axis direction F2, the buffer member 240 can be restricted by the side walls 2392 and 2393 in the width direction and can move in the folding axis directions F1 and F2.

[0105] Figure 8 is a view showing a flexible display and a hinge housing of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is Figure 4A a cross-sectional view of the folding axis F of the hinge housing shown.

[0106] Referring Figure 8 , in the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include a flexible display 250 and a hinge housing 230 that houses at least a portion of the flexible display 250. In this case, the portion of the flexible display 250 housed in the hinge housing 230 may be an area (e.g., the folding area 253) whose shape can be deformed according to the state of the electronic device 200.

[0107] The hinge housing 230 may include an inner surface 233 and side walls 235 that form an internal space 2332. The side walls 235 may be formed to face the folding axis direction F2. The side walls 235 may include a protruding portion 234 facing the flexible display 250. The protruding portion 234 may extend from the side wall 235 in the direction facing the flexible display 250. The protruding portion 234 may include a first recess 237 formed on the surface facing the flexible display 250. The first recess 237 may be recessed inward in the folding axis direction F1. The hinge housing 230 may include a second recess 239 formed on a portion of the inner surface 233 adjacent to the side wall 235. The second recess 239 may be recessed inward in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis directions F1 and F2. Some portions of the buffer member 240 may be housed in the first recess 237 and the second recess 239.

[0108] The buffer member 240 may include a first portion 241 attached to the side wall 235 of the hinge housing 230 and a second portion 242 attached to the inner surface 233 of the hinge housing 230. At least a portion of the first portion 241 may be received in the first recess 237 of the hinge housing 230. The second portion 242 may be received in the second recess 239 of the hinge housing 230.

[0109] The first recess 237 may include a first inner wall 2372 and a second inner wall 2373 facing each other, and a first bottom surface 2371 that mates with the mating surface 245 of the buffer member 240. At least a portion of the first portion 241 of the buffer member 240 may be disposed between the first inner wall 2372 and the second inner wall 2373. The mating surface 245 of the first portion 241 of the buffer member 240 may be attached to the first bottom surface 2371 of the first recess 237. The mating surface 245 of the buffer member 240 may be bonded to the first bottom surface 2371 by an adhesive member 244. At least a portion of the second portion 242 of the buffer member 240 may be placed on the second bottom surface 2391 of the second recess 239. When the flexible display 250 is viewed from above, at least a portion of the second portion 242 of the buffer member 240 may be hidden by the flexible display 250. Whether the buffer member 240 is precisely attached to the hinge housing 230 may be determined by the placement position of the second portion 242. For example, in the case where the second portion 242 protrudes outside the second bottom surface 2391 (e.g., into the inner space 2332 of the hinge housing 230), it can be seen that it is not firmly attached to the first portion 241. Therefore, defects that may occur during the assembly of the buffer member 240 can be prevented.

[0110] As used herein, the term "gap" may refer to the distance in the folding axis directions F1 and F2. The protruding portion 234 may be spaced apart from the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 by at least a first gap d1. The buffer member 240 may be spaced from the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 by at least a second gap d2.

[0111] The first gap d1 may be greater than the second gap d2. That is, the buffer member 240 may be disposed closer to the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 than the protruding portion 234. In the case where an external impact is applied to the electronic device 200, the flexible display 250 may move in the folding axis direction F1 (e.g., toward the protruding portion 234), and the periphery of the flexible display 250 may collide with the opposite surface 243 of the buffer member 240.

[0112] When the flexible display 250 is viewed from above, the buffer member 240 may further protrude toward the flexible display 250 beyond the protruding portion 234. This structure can prevent the flexible display 250 from directly colliding with the protruding portion 234, thereby protecting the fold region 253 that is vulnerable to impact.

[0113] A C-shaped cutting structure may be formed on the surface of the protruding portion 234 facing the fold region 253. The first inner wall 2372, the second inner wall 2373, and the first bottom surface 2371 of the first recess 237 described above may form a C-shaped cutting structure. The C-shaped cutting structure can protect the buffer member 240 and can reduce the area of the buffer member 240 exposed on the outside of the electronic device 200.

[0114] The buffer member 240 may include an opposite surface 243 facing the fold region 253 of the flexible display 250. The opposite surface 243 may include a first region 243-1 that substantially faces the folding axis direction F2 and a second region 243-2 that extends from the first region 243-1 and is inclined to be spaced further and further apart from the fold region 253. At least a part of the first inner wall 235 of the protruding portion 234 may have a slope corresponding to a virtual inclined surface extending from the second region 243-2. In various embodiments, the angle θ of the second region 243-2 with respect to the folding axis direction F1 may be between 50 degrees and 80 degrees. The angle θ may preferably be about 66 degrees.

[0115] The buffer member 240 may be partially exposed on the outside of the electronic device 200 through the space between the flexible display 250 and the protruding portion 234. The shown inclined structure and C-shaped cutting structure (e.g., the first recess 237) may reduce the area of the buffer member 240 exposed on the outside of the electronic device 200, thereby improving the aesthetics of the electronic device 200.

[0116] The first region 243-1 of the opposite surface 243 may be spaced apart from the fold region 253 by a second gap d2, and the second region 243-2 of the opposite surface 243 may be spaced apart from the fold region 253 by a third gap d3 that is larger than the second gap d2. In this case, the protruding portion 234 may be spaced apart from the fold region 253 by a first gap d1 that is larger than the second gap d2.

[0117] The minimum gap (e.g., the first gap d1) between the protruding portion 234 and the fold region 253 may be greater than the maximum gap (e.g., the third gap d3) between the buffer member 240 and the fold region 253. That is, the buffer member 240 may be disposed closer to the fold region 253 than the protruding portion 234. When viewed along the folding axis directions F1 and F2, the buffer member 240 may be disposed closer to the fold region 253 than the protruding portion 234.

[0118] Figure 9A A view showing a buffer member of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9B A view showing a buffer member and a flexible display of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9C A view showing a buffer member and a flexible display of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] Reference Figures 9A to 9C , the hinge housing 230 may include outer surfaces 231 and 232 forming an exterior, an inner surface 233 forming an internal space 2332, a protruding portion 234 formed in the folding axis direction F, and a buffer member 240 attached to the protruding portion 234. The outer surfaces 231 and 232 of the hinge housing 230 may include a first surface 231 facing the flexible display 250 in a flat state and a second surface 232 opposite the first surface 231 and having at least a portion formed as a curved surface. When viewed in the direction of the folding axis F, the buffer member 240 may be formed to at least partially overlap the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250.

[0120] At least a portion of a first portion 241 of the buffer member 240 may be attached to the protruding portion 234, and at least a portion of a second portion 242 of the buffer member 240 may be attached to the inner surface 233. The first portion 241 may further protrude toward the folding region 253 beyond the opposing surface 243 of the protruding portion 234.

[0121] The electronic device 200 may be formed such that the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 faces a portion of the buffer member 240 in a folded state. In the folded state, the periphery of the folding region 253 may face the first portion 241 of the buffer member 240. In the folded state, at least a portion of a first metal layer 254 and at least a portion of a second metal layer 255 may be received in a third recess 2331 formed in the first surface 231 of the hinge housing 230. The third recess 2331 may be recessed from the first surface 231 toward the inner surface 233.

[0122] The electronic device 200 may be formed such that the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 faces a portion of the buffer member 240 in a flat state. In the flat state, the flexible display 250 may be arranged such that at least a portion of the peripheries of the first region 251, the second region 252, the first metal layer 254, and the second metal layer 255 face the first portion 241 of the buffer member 240.

[0123] In the illustrated embodiment, when viewed in the folding axis direction F, the flexible display 250 may be arranged such that the folding region 253 overlaps with the buffer member 240. In the folded state, the folding region 253 may be arranged to overlap with the first portion 241 of the buffer member 240. In the flat state, some portions of the folding region 253, the first region 251, and the second region 252 may be arranged to overlap with the first portion 241 of the buffer member 240.

[0124] The protruding portion 234 may be formed of a rigid metal material. The buffer member 240 may include shock-absorbing material capable of absorbing shock.

[0125] Figures 10A to 10C is a view showing a flexible display and a buffer member in the case where an electronic device drops according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0126] Figure 11 is a view showing a drop impact applied to a flexible display of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] Reference Figures 10A to 10C and Figure 11 , in the illustrated embodiment, the flexible display 250 may be arranged to be movable within a certain range in the folding axis direction F inside the electronic device 200 (e.g., inside the first housing 210 and inside the second housing 210). This is intended to reduce the shear stress that may be generated between the rear surface of the flexible display 250 and the inside of the housing (e.g., Figure 3 the first support member 161 and the second support member 162), and the flexible display 250 may be attached in such a manner that it is movable within a predetermined range inside the housing (e.g., Figure 3 the first support member 161 and the second support member 162).

[0128] The center of gravity of the electronic device 200 including the flexible display 250 may be formed at the end of the hinge housing 230 in the folding axis direction F. Therefore, in the case where the electronic device 200 drops in the folded state, the drop impact may be applied to the end (e.g., the protruding portion) of the hinge housing 230.

[0129] Reference Figures 10A to 10C , the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 movably attached to the housings 210 and 220 may move toward the protruding portion 234 by inertia.

[0130] Reference Figure 11, the buffer member 240 may be formed to protrude toward the folding region 253, thereby preventing the folding region 253 from directly colliding with the protruding portion 234. The buffer member 240 may absorb the impact applied to the folding region 253, thereby protecting the foldable display 250 from a drop impact.

[0131] The folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 may be more vulnerable to impact than other regions (e.g., the first region 251 and the second region 252). The folding region 253 may be a region formed when a plurality of layers included in the flexible display 250 are bent in a folded state. Shear stress may be formed according to the difference in the radius of curvature between the plurality of layers included in the folding region 253. Therefore, the folding region 253 is more vulnerable to impact than other regions (e.g., the first region 251 and the second region 252). Accordingly, the electronic device 200 disclosed herein may include the buffer member 240 that further protrudes toward the folding region 253, and may prevent the folding region 253 from directly colliding with the protruding portion 234.

[0132] The electronic device 200 disclosed herein may include the buffer member 240 formed between the hinge housing 230 including a metal material and the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250.

[0133] Reference Figure 11 , the impact applied to the folding region 253 when the folding region 253 contacts the buffer member 240 may be weaker than the impact when the folding region 253 contacts the protruding portion 234. It can be understood that the buffer member 240 absorbs a part of the impact.

[0134] The shock-absorbing structure including the buffer member 240 disclosed herein is not necessarily limited to being applied to Figures 1 to 10C the foldable electronic devices 100 and 200 shown. For example, the shock-absorbing structure may be applied to an electronic device including a rollable display including a rolling region in at least a part thereof or a foldable electronic device (e.g., Figure 15A the outward-foldable electronic device shown in ) that forms the outside of the electronic device in a folded state. The shock-absorbing structure disclosed herein may be applied to various electronic devices including a display at least a part of which is formed as a curved surface.

[0135] Figures 12A to 12C is a view showing the assembly of the buffer member and the hinge housing of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0136] Reference Figures 12A to 12C, the buffer member 240 may be attached to the protruding portion 234 such that the first portion 241 is received in the first recess 237 and the second portion 242 is received in the second recess 239. The bonding surface 245 of the first portion 241 may be attached to the first bottom surface 2371 of the first recess 237 by an adhesive member 244. The placement surface 246 of the second portion 242 may be placed on the second bottom surface 2391 of the second recess 239. The placement surface 246 may be formed such that the lengths in the folding axis directions F1 and F2 correspond to the lengths of the second bottom surface 2391 in the folding axis directions F1 and F2. This may be used as an indicator for determining whether the buffer member 240 is precisely attached to the protruding portion 234 during the assembly process of the buffer member 240. For example, in the case where the placement surface 246 (e.g., in the direction toward the inner space 2332) protrudes outside the second bottom surface 2391 of the second recess 2391, it may be determined that the buffer member 240 is not precisely attached to the protruding portion 234.

[0137] Reference Figures 12A to 12C , the buffer member 240 may be slidably attached to the protruding portion 234 such that the first portion 241 is inserted into the first recess 237 formed in the protruding portion 234, and the second portion 242 is inserted into the second recess 239. The sliding direction of the buffer member 240 may be the folding axis direction F1. Accordingly, the second recess 239 may open in a direction opposite to the sliding direction (e.g., F2). An additional compression process may be performed on the buffer member 240 to firmly attach the buffer member 240 to the protruding portion 234. At this time, the compression direction of the buffer member 240 may be a direction parallel to the sliding direction (e.g., F1).

[0138] Figures 13A to 13C is a view showing a buffer member and a hinge housing of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0139] Reference Figures 13A to 13C , the electronic device may include a hinge housing 330 and a buffer member 340 attached to the hinge housing 330.

[0140] In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge housing 330 may include: a side wall 331 formed at one end in the direction of the rotation axis (e.g., F1); an inner surface 332 that together with the side wall 331 forms an inner space 333; and one or more attachment protrusions 335 formed on the side wall 331.

[0141] The buffer member 340 can be attached to the attachment protrusion 335. The attachment protrusion 335 can protrude from the side wall 331 of the hinge housing 330 in the +z axis direction. Each attachment protrusion 335 can include a first portion 335-1 extending in the +z axis direction and a second portion 335-2 extending from the first portion 335-1 in a direction perpendicular to the z axis. For example, the second portion 335-2 can extend from the first portion 335-1 in the folding axis direction F1 or F2, or can extend from the first portion 335-1 in the x axis direction as shown in the figure.

[0142] The buffer member 340 can be attached to the attachment protrusion 335 formed on the hinge housing 330. The buffer member 340 can include an opposite surface 342 that substantially faces the inner space 333 of the hinge housing 330. When the buffer member 340 is attached to the hinge housing 330, the opposite surface 342 can be a surface extending from the side wall 331 of the hinge housing 330. The buffer member 340 can include a second recess 349 formed on the opposite surface 342. The second recess 349 can be connected to the first recess 339 formed on the hinge housing 330. The second recess 349 of the buffer member 340 can open in a direction toward the side wall 331 of the hinge housing 330, and the first recess 339 of the hinge housing 330 can open in a direction toward the buffer member 340. In a state where the buffer member 340 is attached to the hinge housing 330, the first recess 339 and the second recess 349 are connected to each other in the opening direction. The buffer member 340 can contain a buffer material capable of absorbing shock.

[0143] Figure 14 is a view showing a hinge housing and a buffer member of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 14 is along Figure 13A a cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C' shown in

[0144] Referring to Figure 14 , the flexible display 250 can be arranged such that the edge of the folding area 253 faces the side wall 331 of the hinge housing 330 and the opposite surface 342 of the buffer member 340. The folding area 253 of the flexible display 250 can be spaced apart from the side wall 331 of the hinge housing 330 and the opposite surface 342 of the buffer member 340 by a certain gap. For example, the folding area 253 can be spaced apart from the side wall 331 of the hinge housing 330 by a first gap d1, and the folding area 253 can be spaced apart from the opposite surface 342 of the buffer member 340 by a second gap d2 smaller than the first gap d1.

[0145] The buffer member 340 may further protrude beyond the sidewall 331 of the hinge housing 330 in the direction (e.g., direction F2) toward the inner space 333 of the hinge housing 330. Thus, in the case where the flexible display 250 moves in the folding axis direction F1 due to an external impact, the edge of the folding region 253 may collide with the buffer member 340, and the impact applied to the flexible display 250 may be absorbed by the buffer member 340.

[0146] The first recess 339 formed on the sidewall 331 of the hinge housing 330 and the second recess 349 formed on the opposite surface 342 of the buffer member 340 may be connected to form one recess.

[0147] The buffer member 340 may include a support surface 343 facing the sidewall 331. An opening 347 into which the attachment protrusion 335 of the hinge housing 330 is inserted may be formed on the support surface 343. The opening 347 may be recessed in the +z-axis direction from the support surface 343 of the buffer member 340.

[0148] The opening 347 of the buffer member 340 may be formed to be smaller than the attachment protrusion 335 such that the attachment protrusion 335 is press-fitted into the opening 347. For example, the diameter of the opening 347 may be smaller than the diameter of a part (e.g., Figure 13B the second part 335-2) of the attachment protrusion 335. For example, the second part (e.g., Figure 13B the second part 335-2) of the attachment protrusion 335 may be press-fitted into the opening 347.

[0149] Figures 15A to 15C is a view showing a shock absorption structure of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0150] Figure 15A is a view showing an outward foldable electronic device 1501 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15B is a view showing an inward foldable electronic device 1502 (e.g., Figures 1 to 3 the electronic device 100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15C is according to an embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 15A and Figure 15B a cross-sectional view of the folding axis F of each foldable electronic device shown.

[0151] Reference Figures 15A to 15C , the outward foldable electronic device 1501 may include a flexible display 250 in a folded state that forms the exterior of the foldable electronic device.

[0152] The foldable electronic devices 1501 and 1502 may include a housing structure that includes a plate structure 1506 on which a flexible display 250 is disposed and a frame structure 1505 that surrounds at least a portion of the periphery of the flexible display 250. The frame structure 1505 may surround the plate structure 1506. The frame structure 1505 and the plate structure 1506 may be integrated with each other or may be assembled as separate components.

[0153] The plate structure 1506 may be referred to as Figure 3 the support member assembly 160 shown in Figure 1 the first side member 113 and the second side member 123 shown in.

[0154] The flexible display 250 may be attached to the plate structure 1506 so as to be movable within a certain range. For example, the flexible display 250 may be attached to the plate structure 1506 by a double-sided tape, but may be precisely movable within a certain range in the direction of the folding axis F.

[0155] The frame structure 1505 may include: a first frame structure 1510 that surrounds at least a portion of a first region 251; a second frame structure 1520 that surrounds at least a portion of a second region 252; and a third frame structure 1530 that surrounds at least a portion of a folding region 253. The third frame structure 1530 may include the protruding portion 234 described above with reference to Figures 5A to 12C the description.

[0156] The frame structure 1505 may include a shock-absorbing structure on at least a portion thereof. The shock-absorbing structure may be formed at a position corresponding to the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250. The shock-absorbing structure may include a shock-absorbing member 1550 (e.g., Figures 5A to 12C the buffer member 240) that protrudes toward the flexible display 250. The shock-absorbing member 1550 may be formed closer to the periphery of the flexible display 250 than other portions of the frame structure 1505.

[0157] Referring to Figure 15C the third frame structure 1530 may be spaced apart from the flexible display 250 by a first gap d1, and the shock-absorbing member 1550 may be spaced apart from the flexible display 250 by a second gap d2. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the folding region 253, which is relatively vulnerable to impact, from directly colliding with the frame structure 1505 formed of a metal material. In various embodiments, the shock-absorbing member 1550 may be integrally formed with the frame structure 1505. For example, the shock-absorbing member 1550 may include an injection-molded portion on a portion of the frame structure 1505 formed of a metal material.

[0158] The shock-absorbing structure disclosed in this document can be applied to various electronic devices including a flexible display 250, which includes a region that can be deformed (into a flat surface or a curved surface) regardless of the direction in which the flexible display 250 is folded (e.g., folded inward 1501, folded outward 1502, and double-sided folding (not shown)).

[0159] Figure 16 is a view showing a hinge housing and a buffer member of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0160] Reference Figure 16 , in the illustrated embodiment, the hinge housing 430 may include a side wall 431 attached to the buffer member 440, an inner surface 432 that together with the side wall 431 forms an internal space 433 of the hinge housing 430, and an outer surface 434 that forms the exterior of the electronic device. At least a portion of the side wall 431 may face the folding axis directions F1 and F2. The buffer member 440 may be disposed inside the side wall 431.

[0161] In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the buffer member 440 may be formed on the inner side of the side wall 431 to face the internal space 433 of the hinge housing 430. Different from the above other embodiments, Figure 16 the hinge housing 430 shown in Figures 5A to 14 may omit the protrusion structure formed on the side wall 431 (e.g., Figure 13B the protrusion portion 234 of

[0162] or the attachment protrusion 335 of

[0163] The buffer member 440 may further protrude into the internal space 433 of the hinge housing 430 beyond the side wall 431 of the hinge housing 430. Figure 14 A portion of the buffer member 440 may be received in a recess 435 formed in the side wall 431 of the hinge housing 430. The remaining portion of the buffer member 440 may further protrude into the internal space 433 of the hinge housing 430 beyond the peripheral portion of the recess 435. Thus, it is possible to prevent the flexible display (e.g.,

[0164] the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 of

[0165] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include: a hinge housing 230 extending in a direction of a folding axis F; a first housing 210 connected to one side of the hinge housing 230 in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis F to rotate about the folding axis F with respect to the hinge housing 230; a second housing 220 connected to an opposite side of the hinge housing 230 in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis F to rotate about the folding axis F with respect to the hinge housing 230; and a flexible display 250 including a folding region 253 at least partially disposed in the hinge housing 230 and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface, a first region 251 extending from the folding region 253 in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis F, and a second region 252 extending from the folding region 253 in an opposite direction perpendicular to the folding axis F. The hinge housing 230 may include: protruding portions 234 formed on opposite ends of the hinge housing in the direction of the folding axis F and adjacent to a periphery of the flexible display 250; and buffer members 240 disposed between the protruding portions 234 and the periphery of the flexible display 250 and spaced apart from the periphery of the flexible display 250 by a certain gap.

[0166] Each protruding portion 234 may include a first protruding portion 234-1 located on one side in the direction of the folding axis F and a second protruding portion 234-2 located on an opposite side in the direction of the folding axis F, and each buffer member 240 may include a first buffer member 240-1 formed between the first protruding portion 234-1 and an edge of the folding region 253 and a second buffer member 240-2 formed between the second protruding portion 234-2 and the folding region 253.

[0167] Each protruding portion 234 may be spaced apart from an edge of the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 by a first gap d1, and each buffer member 240 may be spaced apart from the edge of the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 by a second gap d2 smaller than the first gap.

[0168] Each protruding portion 234 may include a first recess 237 formed on a surface facing the edge of the folding region 253, and each buffer member 240 may be at least partially received in the first recess 237.

[0169] When observing the flexible display 250 in the direction of the folding axis F, each buffer member 240 may be formed to overlap a part of the folding region 253.

[0170] Each buffer member 240 may include a first portion facing the edge of the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 and a second portion extending from the first portion toward a space between the flexible display 250 and the hinge housing 230.

[0171] When viewed from above, the second part of the hinge housing 230 may be formed to be at least partially hidden by the flexible display 250.

[0172] The hinge housing 230 may include an inner surface 233 facing the rear surface of the folding region 253 of the flexible display 250 and a side wall 235 extending from the inner surface 233 and including a region facing the direction of the folding axis F. Each protruding portion 234 may protrude from the side wall 235 toward the front surface of the flexible display 250, and a part of each buffer member 240 may be attached to the protruding portion 234, and the remaining part of the buffer member extends to the inner surface.

[0173] The inner surface may include a second recess 239 in which at least a part of the buffer member 240 is received, and the second recess 239 may be open in the direction of the folding axis F.

[0174] Each buffer member 240 may include a first part and a second part. The first part includes a bonding surface 245 attached to each protruding portion 234 and an opposite surface 234 opposite to the bonding surface 245 and facing the folding region 253. The second part includes a placement surface 246 placed on the inner surface of the hinge housing 230. The buffer member 240 may be attached to the hinge housing 230 such that the bonding surface 245 is attached to the first bottom surface formed on the protruding portion 234 of the first recess, and the placement surface 246 is located on the second bottom surface 2391 formed on the inner surface of the hinge housing 230 of the second recess 239.

[0175] The opposite surface 243 may include a first region 251 facing the direction of the folding axis F and a second region 252 extending from the first region 251 and forming an angle with the folding axis F. The second region 252 may include an inclined surface that is inclined to be away from the folding region 253 as the distance from the first region 251 gradually increases.

[0176] The angle may be in the range of 50 degrees to 80 degrees.

[0177] The first recess 237 may include a first bottom surface 2371 facing the edge of the folding region 235, a first side wall 2372 extending from the first bottom surface 2371 and facing the inner surface of the hinge housing 230, and a second side wall 2373 opposite to the first side wall 2372. At least a part of the first part of the buffer member 240 may be disposed between the first side wall 2372 and the second side wall 2373, and the first side wall 2372 may be formed to form a virtual inclined surface extending from the inclined surface of the opposite surface 243.

[0178] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing structure including: a first housing 210; a second housing 220; a hinge housing 430 disposed between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220, wherein the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are configured to fold toward each other about a folding axis F aligned with the hinge housing 430; a flexible display 250 including a folding region 253 at least partially disposed in the hinge housing 430 and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface, a first region 251 extending from the folding region 253 and disposed in the first housing 210, and a second region 252 extending from the folding region 253 and disposed in the second housing 220; and a shock-absorbing structure configured to absorb an impact applied to the flexible display 250. The hinge housing 430 may include a sidewall, at least a portion of which faces the direction of the folding axis F. The shock-absorbing structure may include a shock-absorbing member formed between the sidewall and the periphery of the flexible display 250.

[0179] The hinge housing 430 may be formed such that the sidewall is spaced apart from the periphery of the flexible display 250 by a first gap, and the buffer member 440 is spaced apart from the periphery of the flexible display 250 by a second gap smaller than the first gap, and the buffer member 440 may be at least partially located in the internal space 433 of the hinge housing 430.

[0180] The sidewall 431 may include a first sidewall 235-1 formed on one side in the direction of the folding axis F and a second sidewall 235-2 formed on the opposite side in the direction of the folding axis F. The buffer member 440 may include a first buffer member 240-1 formed between the first sidewall 235-1 and the periphery of the flexible display 250 and a second buffer member 240-2 formed between the second sidewall 235-2 and the periphery of the flexible display 250. The folding region 235 of the flexible display 250 may be disposed between the first buffer member 240 and the second buffer member 240.

[0181] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a flexible display 250 including a first region 251 formed as a flat surface, a second region 252 formed as a flat surface, and a folding region 253 formed between the first region 251 and the second region 252 and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface; a housing structure surrounding the periphery of the flexible display 250 and including a frame structure 1505 spaced apart from the periphery by a first gap; and a shock-absorbing structure including a shock-absorbing member 1550 formed between the frame structure 1505 and the periphery of the flexible display 250 and spaced apart from the periphery by a second gap smaller than the first gap.

[0182] The frame structure 1505 may include: a first frame structure 1510 that surrounds at least a part of the first region 251; a second frame structure 1520 that surrounds at least a part of the second region 252; and a third frame structure 1530 that surrounds at least a part of the folding region 253; and a shock-absorbing structure may be formed in the third frame structure 1530.

[0183] The housing structure may further include a plate structure 1506 on which the frame structure 1505 is formed and on which the rear surface of the flexible display 250 is disposed. The shock-absorbing structure may include a first shock-absorbing structure disposed adjacent to a first edge of the flexible display and a second shock-absorbing structure disposed adjacent to a second edge of the flexible display and facing the first edge of the flexible display in the folding axis direction. The rear surface of the first region 251 and the rear surface of the second region 252 may be attached to the plate structure 1506 such that the flexible display 250 can move relative to the plate structure 1506 within a certain range in the direction of the folding axis F, and the certain range may be greater than or equal to the second gap.

[0184] The shock-absorbing structure may be integrally formed with the frame structure 1505.

[0185] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gap between the flexible display and the housing structure can be reduced. In addition, foreign substances can be prevented from penetrating into the housing structure through the gap.

[0186] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, direct collision between the flexible display and the rigid housing structure can be prevented. Therefore, the risk of deviation during the assembly of the flexible display can be reduced.

[0187] In addition, the present disclosure can provide various effects that are directly or indirectly recognized.

[0188] The electronic device according to various embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smart phone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a household appliance. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device is not limited to the above devices.

[0189] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, but include various changes, equivalents or alternative forms corresponding to the embodiments. Regarding the description of the drawings, like reference numerals may be used to refer to like or related elements. As used herein, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B or C" may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding one of the plurality of phrases. As used herein, terms such as "first" and "second" or "1st" and "2nd" may be used to simply distinguish the corresponding components from another component, and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order). It will be understood that, in the case where the terms "operatively" or "communicatively" are used or where the terms "operatively" or "communicatively" are not used, if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as "coupled with another element (e.g., a second element)", "coupled to another element (e.g., a second element)", "connected with another element (e.g., a second element)", or "connected to another element (e.g., a second element)", it means that the one element can be directly (e.g., wired) connected to the other element, wirelessly connected to the other element, or connected to the other element via a third element.

[0190] As used herein, the term "module" may include units implemented in hardware, software or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with other terms (e.g., "logic", "logic block", "component" or "circuit"). A module may be a single integrated component adapted to perform one or more functions or the smallest unit or part of the single integrated component. For example, according to an embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0191] The various embodiments described herein can be implemented as software (e.g., a program) including one or more instructions that are machine-readable (e.g., by an electronic device) and stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory or an external memory). For example, under the control of a processor, a processor (e.g., a processor) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device) can call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium with or without using one or more other components and run the at least one instruction. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function in accordance with the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions can include code generated by a compiler or code that can be run by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Herein, the term "non-transitory" only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but this term does not distinguish between data being stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and data being stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0192] According to an embodiment, a method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product can be traded between a seller and a purchaser as a product. The computer program product can be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online via an application store (e.g., Play Store TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., a smart phone) in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or can be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online. If it is distributed online, at least part of the computer program product can be generated temporarily, or at least part of the computer program product can be stored at least temporarily in a machine-readable storage medium (such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a forwarding server).

[0193] According to various embodiments, each of the above components (e.g., a module or a program) may include a single entity or multiple entities. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Optionally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform the one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as the corresponding one of the multiple components performed one or more functions before integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, a program, or another component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or in a heuristic manner, or one or more of the operations may be run in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0194] Although the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments of the present disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: A hinge housing that extends in the direction of a rotation axis; A first housing that is connected to one side of the hinge housing in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis to rotate about the rotation axis relative to the hinge housing; A second housing that is connected to the opposite side of the hinge housing in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis to rotate about the rotation axis relative to the hinge housing; And A flexible display, the flexible display comprising: A bending region that is at least partially disposed in the hinge housing and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface, A first region that extends from the bending region in one direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, and A second region that extends from the bending region in the opposite direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, Wherein, the hinge housing comprises: Protruding portions that are formed on opposite ends of the hinge housing in the direction of the rotation axis and are adjacent to the periphery of the flexible display, and Buffer members that are disposed between the protruding portions and the periphery of the flexible display and are spaced apart from the periphery of the flexible display by a certain gap, Wherein each of the buffer members includes a first portion facing the edge of the bending region of the flexible display and a second portion extending from the first portion toward the space between the flexible display and the hinge housing.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, Among them, The protruding portions include a first protruding portion on one side in the direction of the rotation axis and a second protruding portion on the opposite side in the direction of the rotation axis, and Wherein, the buffer members include a first buffer member formed between the first protruding portion and the edge of the bending region and a second buffer member formed between the second protruding portion and the edge of the bending region.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, Among them, Each of the protruding portions is spaced apart from the edge of the bending region of the flexible display by a first gap, and Wherein, each of the buffer members is spaced apart from the edge of the bending region of the flexible display by a second gap smaller than the first gap.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, Among them, Each of the protruding portions includes a first recess formed on the surface facing the edge of the bending region, and Wherein, each of the buffer members is at least partially received in the first recess.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the buffer members is formed to overlap a part of the bending region when the flexible display is viewed in the direction of the rotation axis.

6. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein The second portion is formed to be at least partially hidden by the flexible display when the hinge housing is viewed from above.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, Among them, The hinge housing includes an inner surface facing the rear surface of the bending region of the flexible display and a side wall extending from the inner surface and including a region facing the direction of the rotation axis, Each of the protruding portions protrudes from the sidewall toward the front surface of the flexible display, and wherein the first portion of each of the buffer members is attached to the protruding portion, and the second portion of each of the buffer members extends to the inner surface.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, Among them, the inner surface includes a second recess for receiving at least a portion of the buffer member, and wherein the second recess opens in the direction of the rotation axis.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1, Among them, the first portion includes a bonding surface attached to each protruding portion and an opposing surface opposite to the bonding surface and facing the bending region, wherein the second portion includes a placement surface disposed on the inner surface of the hinge housing, and wherein the buffer member is attached to the hinge housing such that the bonding surface is attached to the first bottom surface of the first recess formed in the protruding portion, and the placement surface is located on the second bottom surface of the second recess formed in the inner surface of the hinge housing.

10. The electronic device according to claim 9, Among them, the opposing surface includes a first region facing the direction of the rotation axis and a second region extending from the first region, the second region being configured to form an angle with the rotation axis, and wherein the second region includes an inclined surface that is inclined away from the bending region as the distance from the first region gradually increases.

11. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: a flexible display, the flexible display comprising: a first region formed as a flat surface, a second region formed as a flat surface, and a bending region formed between the first region and the second region and formed as a flat surface or a curved surface; a housing structure configured to surround the periphery of the flexible display, the housing structure including a frame structure spaced apart from the periphery by a first gap; and a shock-absorbing structure including a shock-absorbing member formed between the frame structure and the periphery of the flexible display and spaced apart from the periphery by a second gap smaller than the first gap, wherein the shock-absorbing member includes a first portion facing the edge of the bending region of the flexible display and a second portion extending from the first portion toward the space between the flexible display and the housing structure.

12. The electronic device according to claim 11, Among them, the frame structure includes: a first frame structure configured to surround at least a portion of the first region, a second frame structure configured to surround at least a portion of the second region, and a third frame structure configured to surround at least a portion of the bending region, and wherein the shock-absorbing structure is formed in the third frame structure.

13. The electronic device according to claim 11, Among them, The housing structure further includes a support member, the frame structure is formed on the support member, and the rear surface of the flexible display is disposed on the support member. Wherein, the shock-absorbing structure includes: a first shock-absorbing structure disposed adjacent to a first edge of the flexible display; and a second shock-absorbing structure disposed adjacent to a second edge of the flexible display and configured to face the first edge of the flexible display in a direction of a folding axis. Wherein, the rear surfaces of the first region and the second region are attached to the support member such that the flexible display can move relative to the support member within a certain range in a direction of the folding axis, and wherein, the certain range is greater than or equal to the second gap.

14. The electronic device according to claim 11, wherein The shock-absorbing structure is integrally formed with the frame structure.

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