Hinge structure and electronic device including the same

Abstract

Disclosed are hinge structures for foldable electronic devices. The hinge structures can include a fixed structure including an arc-shaped first guide rail and an arc-shaped second guide rail, a center of an arc of the first guide rail being a first rotation axis parallel to an axial direction, a center of an arc of the second guide rail being a second rotation axis parallel to the axial direction; a first rotation structure including a first guide portion accommodated in the first guide rail and a first spiral groove spirally extending around the first rotation axis, the first rotation structure rotating around the first rotation axis; a second rotation structure including a second guide portion accommodated in the second guide rail and a second spiral groove spirally extending around the second rotation axis, the second rotation structure rotating around the second rotation axis; and a sliding structure including a first guide protrusion accommodated in the first spiral groove and a second guide protrusion accommodated in the second spiral groove. Various other implementations are possible as identified by the specification.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application is based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0092496, filed on July 24, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, and claims priority to it pursuant to Section 119 of Title 35 of the United States Code, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This disclosure relates to hinge structures and electronic devices including the same. Background Technology

[0003] Portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, offer a variety of functions for various applications, including phone calls, video playback, and internet searching. Users may want to utilize these functions through a wider screen. However, as screen size increases, portability decreases. Therefore, to provide a wide screen while ensuring portability, foldable electronic devices incorporating flexible displays are being developed, where portions of the display can deform into curved or flat shapes. Foldable electronic devices may include a hinge structure to which adjacent housings are rotatably connected. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues

[0005] Foldable electronic devices may include flexible displays, at least a portion of which can deform into a curved or flat shape. As the size of the flexible display increases, the restoring force in the folded state (e.g., the force by which a curved area returns to a flat area) can increase. This restoring force can cause defects in the folding and unfolding movements of the foldable electronic device. For example, due to the restoring force of the flexible display, the foldable electronic device may not be able to maintain the folded state desired by the user.

[0006] Therefore, one aspect of this disclosure is to provide a hinge structure for providing a torque capable of counteracting the restoring force of the display.

[0007] Other aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of the proposed implementation.

[0008] Technical solution

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a hinge structure is provided. The hinge structure includes: a fixed structure comprising a first guide rail having an arcuate shape and a second guide rail having an arcuate shape, wherein the center of the arc of the first guide rail is a first axis of rotation parallel to the axial direction, and the center of the arc of the second guide rail is a second axis of rotation parallel to the axial direction; a first rotating structure comprising a first guide portion received in the first guide rail and a first helical groove surrounding and extending along the first axis of rotation, and rotating about the first axis of rotation; a second rotating structure comprising a second guide portion received in the second guide rail and a second helical groove surrounding and extending along the second axis of rotation, and rotating about the second axis of rotation; and a sliding structure comprising a first guide protrusion received in the first helical groove and a second guide protrusion received in the second helical groove, and sliding relative to the fixed structure in the axial direction when the first rotating structure and the second rotating structure rotate.

[0010] Beneficial effects

[0011] An electronic device according to an embodiment of this disclosure may include a hinge structure that provides a torque greater than or equal to the restoring force of the display. Therefore, the folding motion of the foldable electronic device or the folded state desired by the user can be stably maintained.

[0012] Furthermore, the hinge structure according to the embodiments of this disclosure can provide torque sufficient to counteract the restoring force of the display without increasing the thickness of the electronic device.

[0013] Furthermore, this disclosure can provide various effects that can be recognized directly or indirectly. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0015] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2a This is a view showing the unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2b This is a view showing the folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 2c This is a view showing the fully folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a view showing a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4a , Figure 4b and Figure 4c This is a view showing the fixed structure and rotating structure of the hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a view showing the fixed structure and rotating structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a view showing the rotation axis of the rotating structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and the folding axis of the display.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a view showing the rotating structure and sliding structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a view showing the rotating structure and sliding structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 9a and Figure 9b This is a view showing the helical groove of the rotating structure of the hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a view showing the sliding axis and rotation axis of a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a view showing the sliding motion of the sliding structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a view showing the friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a view showing the friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 14a , Figure 14b and Figure 14c This is a view showing the friction structure of the hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 15a and Figure 15b This is a view showing the sliding structure and the fixed structure of the hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 16 This is a view showing a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 17 is a view showing a second friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 18 This is a view showing the shaft clamping member of a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 19a and Figure 19b This is a view showing the shaft clamping member of a hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 20 This is a view showing a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 21 This is an exploded perspective view showing a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 22 This is a view showing the third friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 23 This is a view showing the folding motion of a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 24a , Figure 24b and Figure 24c This is a view showing a third friction structure of a hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 25 This is a view showing a portion of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 26a , Figure 26b and Figure 26c This is a view showing a fourth friction structure of the hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] Throughout the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals will be understood to refer to the same parts, components, and structures. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, is provided to aid in a full understanding of the various embodiments of this disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to aid in this understanding, but these details will be considered exemplary only. Therefore, those skilled 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 this disclosure. Furthermore, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted.

[0045] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their literal meaning, but are used by the inventors only to enable the disclosure to be clearly and consistently understood. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0046] It will be understood that the singular forms “a” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “a component surface” includes a reference to one or more such surfaces.

[0047] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 The electronic device 100 may include a first housing 110, a second housing 120, a hinge housing 130, a hinge structure 200, and a display 140.

[0049] In one embodiment, the first housing 110 may be connected to the second housing 120 via a hinge structure 200. The first housing 110 may include a first plate 111 on which the display 140 is mounted. For example, a portion of the first region 141 and a portion of the folding region 143 may be disposed on the first plate 111. A first rotating structure 210 of the hinge structure 200 may be connected to the first plate 111. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing 110 may be attached to the first region 141 of the display 140. Optionally, a portion of the periphery of the front surface of the first housing 110 may be attached to the periphery of the first region 141 of the display 140. In this regard, an adhesive layer may be disposed between the first plate 111 of the first housing 110 and the first region 141 of the display 140.

[0050] In various embodiments, the electronic device 100 may further include a mesh structure (not shown) and / or a support (not shown) disposed between the display 140 and the adhesive layer. The mesh structure may include a slit region comprising a plurality of slits that at least partially overlap with the folded region 143. The plurality of slits may extend in the extending direction of the folded region 143 (e.g., the Y-axis direction). The plurality of slits may be supported in an unfolded state (e.g., ...). Figure 2a The lower flat folding area 143 can support the deformation of the folding area 143 during folding or unfolding movements. In various embodiments, only a portion of the mesh structure or support can be stacked on the display 140.

[0051] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the interior of the first housing 110 may be hollow, and the first housing 110 may house electronic components required to drive the electronic device 100 (e.g., a printed circuit board and components mounted on the printed circuit board, such as at least one processor, at least one memory, and a battery). In another embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing 110 may be formed of a metallic material, or at least a portion of the first housing 110 may be formed of a non-metallic material. The first housing 110 may be formed of a material having a predetermined hardness to support at least a portion of the display 140. In another embodiment, the portion of the first housing 110 facing the second housing 120 may include a recess, at least a portion of which has a predetermined curvature such that a hinge housing 130 is disposed therein.

[0052] In one embodiment, the second housing 120 may be connected to the first housing 110 via a hinge structure 200. The second housing 120 may include a second plate 121 on which the display 140 is mounted. For example, portions of the second region 142 and the folding region 143 may be disposed on the second plate 121. A second rotation structure 220 of the hinge structure 200 may be connected to the second plate 121. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the second housing 120 may be attached to the second region 142 of the display 140. Optionally, a portion of the periphery of the front surface of the second housing 120 may be attached to the periphery of the second region 142 of the display 140. In this regard, an adhesive layer may be disposed between the second plate 121 of the second housing 120 and the second region 142 of the display 140. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the interior of the second housing 120 may be provided as a hollow form, and the second housing 120 may have electronic components (e.g., printed circuit boards and components mounted on the printed circuit boards, such as at least one processor, at least one memory, and a battery) required to drive the electronic device 100 within its hollow portion. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the second housing 120 may be formed of a metallic material, or at least a portion of the second housing 120 may be formed of a non-metallic material. The second housing 120 may be formed of a material having a predetermined hardness to support at least a portion of the display 140. In another embodiment, the portion of the second housing 120 facing the first housing 110 may include a recess, at least a portion of which has a predetermined curvature such that a hinge housing 130 is disposed therein.

[0053] In one embodiment, the hinge housing 130 may be disposed in a recess of the first housing 110 and a recess of the second housing 120. The hinge housing 130 may be provided integrally in a form extending in the Y-axis direction. A boss for fixing the hinge structure 200 may be provided on a portion of the inner surface of the hinge housing 130.

[0054] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the display 140 may be flexible. For example, the display 140 may include a first region 141 disposed on a first housing 110, a second region 142 disposed on a second housing 120, and a folded region 143 located between the first region 141 and the second region 142. In some embodiments, the first region 141 and the second region 142 may be formed as flat, and the folded region 143 may be deformable as flat or curved.

[0055] In various embodiments, the hinge structure 200 may include a first rotating structure 210 connected to the first housing 110 and a second rotating structure 220 connected to the second housing 120. The hinge structure 200 may be configured such that the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 are rotatable about their axis of rotation (e.g., the axis of rotation is parallel to the Y-axis). For example, the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 are rotatable about their axis of rotation when the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are folded or unfolded.

[0056] Figure 2a This is a view showing the unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2b This is a view showing the folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2c This is a view showing the fully folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] In this embodiment, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can rotate about their axes of rotation in opposite directions. For example, during a folding motion performed from the unfolded state, the first housing 110 can rotate clockwise and the second housing 120 can rotate counterclockwise.

[0058] In this implementation, an axial direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first housing 110 and the rotation axis of the second housing 120 can be defined. The axial direction can be defined as the extension direction of the folding region 143 of the display 140. For example, the axial direction can be defined as the direction of the long side of the folding region 143. For example, the axial direction can refer to the direction parallel to... Figure 1 The direction of the Y-axis in the diagram.

[0059] To describe the state of the electronic device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first edge P1 and a second edge P2 of the electronic device 100 may be defined, the first edge P1 and the second edge P2 being parallel to the axial direction. To describe the state of the electronic device 100, a third edge P3 and a fourth edge P4 of the electronic device 100 may be defined, the third edge P3 and the fourth edge P4 being perpendicular to the axial direction. For example, the first edge P1 and the third edge P3 may include portions of the first frame 112 of the first housing 110. For example, the second edge P2 and the fourth edge P4 may include portions of the second frame 122 of the second housing 120.

[0060] Reference Figure 2a This will describe the unfolded state of the electronic device 100.

[0061] For example, the unfolded state may include a state where the folded area 143 of the display 140 is flat. For example, the unfolded state may include a state where the first area 141 and the second area 142 of the display 140 are formed as flat surfaces facing the same direction. For example, the unfolded state may include a state where the first normal vector n1 of the first area 141 of the display 140 and the second normal vector n2 of the second area 142 of the display 140 are parallel to each other. For example, the unfolded state may include a state where the third edge P3 and the fourth edge P4 substantially form a straight line. For example, the unfolded state may include a state where the third edge P3 and the fourth edge P4 form a 180-degree angle.

[0062] Reference Figure 2b This will describe the folded state of the electronic device 100.

[0063] For example, the folded state may include a state in which the folded region 143 of the display 140 is bent. For example, the folded state may include a state in which the first normal vector n1 of the first region 141 and the second normal vector n2 of the second region 142 form a predetermined angle instead of 180 degrees. For example, the folded state may include a state in which the third edge P3 and the fourth edge P4 form a predetermined angle instead of 180 degrees.

[0064] Reference Figure 2c This will describe the fully folded state of the electronic device 100.

[0065] For example, a fully folded state can refer to a state in which the first edge P1 and the second edge P2 are substantially in contact with each other. For example, the folded region 143 in the fully folded state can be formed as a curved surface with a greater curvature than the folded region 143 in the folded state.

[0066] Reference Figure 2b and Figure 2cIn both the folded and fully folded states, at least a portion of the hinge housing 130 can form the surface of the electronic device 100. For example, the hinge housing 130 can be visually exposed between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120.

[0067] Figure 3 This is a view showing a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] Reference Figure 3 The hinge structure 200 may include a fixed structure 230, a first rotating structure 210, a second rotating structure 220, and a sliding structure 240.

[0069] At least a portion of the fixing structure 230 can be fixedly disposed in the hinge housing (e.g., Figure 1 The hinge housing 130 is located inside the fixed structure 230. The fixed structure 230 may be configured to extend in the axial direction. A first rotating structure 210 may be rotatably connected to the fixed structure 230. For example, the fixed structure 230 may include a first opening region 2391, and a first connecting portion 211 of the first rotating structure 210 may be connected to the first opening region 2391. A second rotating structure 220 may be rotatably connected to the fixed structure 230. For example, the fixed structure 230 may include a second opening region 2392, and a second connecting portion 221 of the second rotating structure 220 may be connected to the second opening region 2392. A sliding structure 240 may be connected to the fixed structure 230 to allow sliding in the axial direction. For example, the fixed structure 230 may include a first sliding shaft 2351 and a second sliding shaft 2352, and the sliding structure 240 may be slidably connected to the first sliding shaft 2351 and the second sliding shaft 2352. A screw 238 for guiding the sliding range of the sliding structure 240 may be connected to the fixed structure 230. For example, the sliding structure 240 can be located at the opposite end of the screw 238 and the sliding groove 243 (e.g., Figure 11 The screw 238 can slide within the contact range of 243-1 and 243-2 in the sliding structure 240. The screw 238 can be attached to the rear surface of the fixed structure 230, and at least a portion of the screw 238 can be accommodated in the sliding groove 243 of the sliding structure 240. The sliding structure 240 can slide axially relative to the fixed structure 230 with the screw 238 located in the sliding groove 243.

[0070] In one embodiment, the first rotating structure 210 may be rotatably connected to the fixed structure 230 and the sliding structure 240.

[0071] In an implementation, the first rotating structure 210 may be configured such that when the first housing (e.g., Figure 1When the first housing 110 is folded or unfolded, it rotates relative to the fixed structure 230 along a predetermined path. In an embodiment, the first rotating structure 210 may include a first connecting portion 211 rotatably connected to the fixed structure 230 and a first extension portion 212 connected to the first housing 110. The first connecting portion 211 may be connected to the fixed structure 230 such that the first rotating structure 210 rotates along a predetermined path. When the electronic device 100 is folded or unfolded, the first extension portion 212 may be folded or unfolded together with the first housing 110. When the first housing 110 is folded or unfolded, the first extension portion 212 and the first connecting portion 211 may rotate relative to the fixed structure 230 along a predetermined rotational path formed by the first connecting portion 211 and the fixed structure 230.

[0072] In one embodiment, the sliding structure 240 can be configured to move in the axial direction when the first rotating structure 210 rotates. In another embodiment, the first connecting portion 211 of the first rotating structure 210 may include at least one first helical groove (e.g., a first helical groove 214). The first helical groove 214 can be fastened to the first guide protrusion 241 of the sliding structure 240. The first guide protrusion 241 of the sliding structure 240 can be accommodated in the first helical groove 214. For example, the first helical groove 214 may extend to have a predetermined torsion angle relative to the axial direction. When the first rotating structure 210 rotates, the first guide protrusion 241 can be pressed in the axial direction by the first helical groove 214. For example, the first rotating structure 210 can rotate with its axial movement restricted by the first opening region 2391 of the fixing structure 230, and the first helical groove 214 of the first rotating structure 210 can press the first guide protrusion 241 of the sliding structure 240 in the axial direction. Therefore, the sliding structure 240 can move in the axial direction.

[0073] In one embodiment, the second rotating structure 220 can be rotatably connected to the fixed structure 230 and the sliding structure 240.

[0074] In an implementation, the second rotating structure 220 can be configured such that when the second housing (e.g., Figure 1When the second housing 120 is folded or unfolded, it rotates relative to the fixed structure 230 along a predetermined path. In an embodiment, the second rotating structure 220 may include a second connecting portion 221 rotatably connected to the fixed structure 230 and a second extension portion 222 connected to the second housing 120. The second connecting portion 221 may be connected to the fixed structure 230 such that the second rotating structure 220 rotates along a predetermined path. When the electronic device 100 is folded or unfolded, the second extension portion 222 may be folded or unfolded together with the second housing 120. When the second housing 120 is folded or unfolded, the second extension portion 222 and the second connecting portion 221 may rotate relative to the fixed structure 230 along a predetermined rotational path formed by the second connecting portion 221 and the fixed structure 230.

[0075] In one embodiment, the sliding structure 240 can be configured to move in the axial direction when the second rotating structure 220 rotates. In another embodiment, the second connecting portion 221 of the second rotating structure 220 may include at least one second helical groove (e.g., a second helical groove 224). The second helical groove 224 can be fastened to the second guide protrusion 242 of the sliding structure 240. The second guide protrusion 242 of the sliding structure 240 can be accommodated in the second helical groove 224. For example, the second helical groove 224 may extend to have a predetermined torsion angle relative to the axial direction. When the second rotating structure 220 rotates, the second guide protrusion 242 can be pressed in the axial direction by the second helical groove 224. For example, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate with its axial movement restricted by the second opening region 2392 of the fixing structure 230, and the second helical groove 224 of the second rotating structure 220 can press the second guide protrusion 242 of the sliding structure 240 in the axial direction. Therefore, the sliding structure 240 can move in the axial direction.

[0076] The sliding structure 240 can associate the rotation of the first rotating structure 210 with the rotation of the second rotating structure 220. For example, the sliding structure 240 can associate the first rotating structure 210 with the second rotating structure 220 such that the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 rotate in opposite directions. For example, when the first rotating structure 210 rotates in a first rotational direction, the first helical groove 214 can press the first guide protrusion 241 to move the sliding structure to one side in the axial direction. When the sliding structure 240 moves to said side in the axial direction, the second guide protrusion 242 can press the second helical groove 224 to rotate the second rotating structure 220 in a second rotational direction.

[0077] In one embodiment, the sliding structure 240 can move axially along a first sliding shaft 2351 and a second sliding shaft 2352 fixedly disposed on the fixed structure 230. The first sliding shaft 2351 and the second sliding shaft 2352 can pass through the sliding structure 240 and guide its sliding path. In another embodiment, the sliding structure 240 may include a sliding groove 243. A screw 238, included in the fixed structure 230, can be disposed in the sliding groove 243. The screw 238 can pass through the sliding groove 243 and can be connected to the fixed structure 230. An elastic member 251 and a first washer 252 can be connected to the screw 238. The elastic member 251 and the first washer 252 can slide together with the sliding structure 240.

[0078] Figures 4a to 4c This is a view showing the fixed structure and rotating structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a view showing the fixed structure and rotating structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] Reference Figure 4a In one embodiment, the fixed structure 230 may include a first guide rail 233 for guiding the rotation path of the first rotating structure 210. The first guide rail 233 may be formed on a sidewall of a first opening region 2391 in which the first rotating structure 210 is received. For example, the first guide rail 233 may be formed on at least one of the opposite sidewalls of the first opening region 2391. In one embodiment, the first guide rail 233 may have a substantially arcuate shape. For example, the center of the arc of the first guide rail 233 may form a first axis of rotation R1. Referring to the figures, the first axis of rotation R1 may be formed at a position spaced apart from the fixed structure 230 and the first rotating structure 210 along the Z-axis direction. In one embodiment, a first guide portion 213 of the first rotating structure 210 may be received in the first guide rail 233.

[0080] In one embodiment, the first rotating structure 210 may include a first guide portion 213 formed on the first connecting portion 211. The first guide portion 213, together with the first guide rail 233, can guide the rotation path of the first rotating structure 210. In one embodiment, the first guide portion 213 may protrude axially from the first connecting portion 211. For example, at least a portion of the first guide portion 213 may be accommodated in the first guide rail 233. In one embodiment, with the first guide portion 213 accommodated in the first guide rail 233, the first rotating structure 210 can rotate about a first rotation axis R1. For example, when the first extension portion 212 is folded or unfolded together with the first housing 110, the first rotating structure 210 can rotate along an arc-shaped rotation path centered on the first rotation axis R1.

[0081] In one embodiment, the fixed structure 230 may include a second guide rail 234 for guiding the rotation path of the second rotating structure 220. The second guide rail 234 may be formed on a sidewall of a second opening region 2392 in which the second rotating structure 220 is received. For example, the second guide rail 234 may be formed on at least one of the opposite sidewalls of the second opening region 2392. In one embodiment, the second guide rail 234 may have a substantially arcuate shape. For example, the center of the arc of the second guide rail 234 may form a second axis of rotation R2. Referring to the figures, the second axis of rotation R2 may be formed at a position spaced apart from the fixed structure 230 and the second rotating structure 220 along the Z-axis direction. In one embodiment, a second guide portion 223 of the second rotating structure 220 may be received within the second guide rail 234.

[0082] In one embodiment, the second rotating structure 220 may include a second guide portion 223 formed on the second connecting portion 221. The second guide portion 223, together with the second guide rail 234, can guide the rotation path of the second rotating structure 220. In one embodiment, the second guide portion 223 may protrude axially from the second connecting portion 221. For example, at least a portion of the second guide portion 223 may be accommodated in the second guide rail 234. In one embodiment, with the second guide portion 223 accommodated in the second guide rail 234, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate about the second rotation axis R2. For example, when the second extension portion 222 is folded or unfolded together with the second housing 120, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate along an arc-shaped rotation path centered on the second rotation axis R2.

[0083] In this embodiment, the first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2 may be parallel to the axial direction of the hinge structure 200.

[0084] Reference Figure 4b In the unfolded state, the first extension 212 can restrict the rotation direction of the first rotating structure 210 to one direction. For example, the first end of the first guide rail 233 can be open, and the second end of the first guide rail 233 can be covered by the first extension 212. Therefore, in the unfolded state, the first rotating structure 210 can rotate clockwise about the first rotation axis R1, but cannot rotate counterclockwise. (Refer to...) Figure 4c In the unfolded state, the second extension 222 can restrict the rotation direction of the second rotating structure 220 to one direction. For example, the third end of the second guide rail 234 can be open, and the fourth end of the second guide rail 234 can be covered by the second extension 222. Therefore, in the unfolded state, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate counterclockwise around the second rotation axis R2, but cannot rotate clockwise.

[0085] In one embodiment, the fixing structure 230 may have a first fixing hole 2361 and a second fixing hole 2362, with a first sliding shaft 2351 passing through the first fixing hole 2361 and a second sliding shaft 2352 passing through the second fixing hole 2362. The first sliding shaft 2351 and the second sliding shaft 2352 may be fixed to the fixing structure 230.

[0086] Reference Figures 4a to 4c and Figure 5 The first connecting portion 211 may include a first side surface 211b facing the first rotation axis R1 and a first arcuate surface 211a surrounding the first rotation axis R1. For example, the first connecting portion 211 may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. For example, a first guide portion 213 connected to the first guide rail 233 may be formed on the first side surface 211b, and a first helical groove 214 connected to the first guide protrusion 241 may be formed on the first arcuate surface 211a. The first guide portion 213 may include a portion protruding in the direction of the first rotation axis R1.

[0087] Reference Figures 4a to 4c and Figure 5 The second connecting portion 221 may include a second side surface 221b facing the second rotation axis R2 and a second arcuate surface 221a surrounding the second rotation axis R2. For example, the second connecting portion 221 may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. For example, a second guide portion 223 connected to the second guide rail 234 may be formed on the second side surface 221b, and a second helical groove 224 connected to the second guide protrusion 242 may be formed on the second arcuate surface 221a. The second guide portion 223 may include a portion protruding in the direction of the second rotation axis R2.

[0088] Figure 6 This is a view showing the rotation axis of the rotating structure of the hinge structure according to the embodiment and the folding axis of the display.

[0089] Reference Figure 6 In this embodiment, the first rotation axis R1 can be defined as the center of rotational motion of the first rotating structure 210. For example, the first rotation axis R1 can be the center of a first guide rail 233 having an arcuate shape. The first rotation axis R1 can be formed at a position substantially overlapping with the display 140. The first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2 can be parallel to each other and can be located at substantially the same height in the Z-axis direction.

[0090] In this embodiment, the second rotation axis R2 can be defined as the center of rotational motion of the second rotating structure 220. The second rotation axis R2 can be the center of a second guide rail 234 having an arcuate shape. The second rotation axis R2 can be formed at a position substantially overlapping with the display 140. The first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2 can be parallel to each other and can be located at substantially the same height in the Z-axis direction.

[0091] In this embodiment, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be folded or unfolded, with a folding axis F between them. The folding axis F can be defined as the state of bending in the folding region 143 (e.g., Figure 2b Folded state or Figure 2c The center of curvature of the folded region 143 in its fully folded state. For example, in the fully folded state shown, the distance r between the folding axis F and the folded region 143 can be the minimum radius of curvature of the folded region 143 when it is bent.

[0092] Reference Figure 6 The neutral plane P can be a virtual plane that overlaps with the interior of the display 140 when viewed from one side. The neutral plane P can be a virtual plane with the same length in both the unfolded and fully folded states. For example, the length can be from […] in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. Figure 2a The length measured from the first edge P1 to the second edge P2. For example, in the unfolded state, the display 140 may include a first surface 1401 located in the +Z-axis direction relative to the neutral plane P and a second surface 1402 located in the -Z-axis direction relative to the neutral plane P. For example, the length of the first surface 1401 and the length of the second surface 1402 of the display 140 may increase or decrease during folding and unfolding movements. For example, in the folded state, the second surface 1402 included in the folding region 143 may have a larger radius of curvature than the first surface 1401, and therefore may be longer than the first surface 1401. The length of the first surface 1401 may be reduced. Considering the behavior of the display 140, the hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment may be configured such that the first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2 lie on the neutral plane P, whose lengths remain unchanged.

[0093] In this embodiment, the minimum distance r between the folding axis F and the folding region 143 in the unfolded state can be substantially the same as the minimum distance r between the folding axis F and the folding region 143 in the fully folded state. For this purpose, the first rotation axis R1 of the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotation axis R2 of the second rotating structure 220 can be located on the neutral plane P of the display 140. For example, referring to the figures, a portion of the folding region 143 can have the same height in the Z-axis direction in both the fully folded and unfolded states.

[0094] In one embodiment, the first rotating structure 210 can rotate within a first angular range. For example, the first angular range can be greater than 90 degrees. In another embodiment, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate within a second angular range. For example, the second angular range can be greater than 90 degrees. In another embodiment, the first angular range and the second angular range can be substantially the same as each other. In another embodiment, the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 can rotate in opposite directions about a first rotation axis R1 and a second rotation axis R2, respectively. In another embodiment, the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 can be associated with each other to rotate by the same angle.

[0095] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The following describes a sliding structure used to associate the rotation of the first rotational structure with the rotation of the second rotational structure.

[0096] Figure 7 This is a view showing the rotating structure and sliding structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 This is a view showing the rotating structure and sliding structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Reference Figure 7 In one embodiment, the sliding structure 240 can be movably connected to a first sliding shaft 2351 and a second sliding shaft 2352 fixedly disposed on the fixed structure 230. The sliding structure 240 can be connected to a first rotating structure 210 and a second rotating structure 220, such that a first guide protrusion 241 is received in a first helical groove 214 of the first rotating structure 210 and a second guide protrusion 242 is received in a second helical groove 224 of the second rotating structure 220. In one embodiment, when the first rotating structure 210 rotates about a first rotation axis R1 in a first rotational direction, the sliding structure 240 can move to one side. When the sliding structure 240 moves to said side, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate about a second rotation axis R2 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction. Therefore, the sliding structure 240 can associate the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 such that the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 rotate by the same rotational angle in opposite directions.

[0098] In one embodiment, the first sliding shaft 2351 may include a first fixing portion 2353 fixedly connected to the fixing structure 230. The first fixing portion 2353 may be inserted into a first fixing groove in the fixing structure 230 (e.g., Figure 4aThe first sliding shaft 2351 is fixed in the first fixed groove 2371, and can prevent the first sliding shaft 2351 from moving in the axial direction. When the sliding structure 240 slides, the first sliding shaft 2351 can be fixed to the fixed structure 230. The first sliding shaft 2351 can be arranged adjacent to the first guide portion 213 of the first rotating structure 210.

[0099] In one embodiment, the second sliding shaft 2352 may include a second fixing portion 2354 fixedly connected to the fixing structure 230. The second fixing portion 2354 may be inserted into a second fixing groove in the fixing structure 230 (e.g., Figure 4a The second sliding shaft 2352 is fixed in the second fixing groove 2372, and can prevent the second sliding shaft 2352 from moving in the axial direction. When the sliding structure 240 slides, the second sliding shaft 2352 can be fixed to the fixing structure 230. The second sliding shaft 2352 can be arranged adjacent to the second guide portion 223 of the second rotating structure 220.

[0100] In an embodiment, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction, the first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2 can be located between the extension line of the first sliding shaft 2351 and the extension line of the second sliding shaft 2352.

[0101] In one embodiment, the first guide portion 213 of the first rotating structure 210 may be formed as a curved surface having an arcuate shape centered on a first axis of rotation R1. A first helical groove 214 may extend along the curved surface of the first guide portion 213. For example, the first helical groove 214 may be a helical groove surrounding the first axis of rotation R1 and extending in the direction of extension of the first axis of rotation R1.

[0102] In one embodiment, the second guide portion 223 of the second rotating structure 220 can be formed as a curved surface having an arcuate shape centered on the second rotation axis R2. The second helical groove 224 can extend along the curved surface of the second guide portion 223. For example, the second helical groove 224 can be a helical groove surrounding the second rotation axis R2 and extending in the direction of extension of the second rotation axis R2.

[0103] In one embodiment, the sliding structure 240 can associate the rotation of the first rotating structure 210 with the rotation of the second rotating structure 220. For example, the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 can rotate by the same angle in opposite directions. In another embodiment, refer to... Figure 8When the first rotating structure 210 rotates in a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise), the sliding structure 240 can move in a first axial direction ①. When the sliding structure 240 moves in the first axial direction ①, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise). For this purpose, the first helical groove 214 and the second helical groove 224 can have substantially the same shape. For example, the first helical groove 214 and the second helical groove 224 can extend to substantially the same length.

[0104] The hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment can be configured such that the sliding structure 240 associates the rotation of the first rotating structure 210 with the rotation of the second rotating structure 220. Therefore, compared to a hinge structure configured such that the rotating structures are associated via two idler gears, the hinge structure 200 can have improved assembly tolerances and backlash. Backlash can refer to the gap between the teeth of two gears when they mesh together. That is, the gears can move through this gap. Appropriate backlash is required for the gears to rotate smoothly. The hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment may include helical grooves 214 and 224 and guide protrusions 241 and 242 instead of gear teeth, thus reducing or eliminating backlash.

[0105] Figure 9a and Figure 9b This is a view showing the helical groove of the rotating structure of the hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9a This is a view showing the helical groove using a cylindrical coordinate system. Figure 9b This is a view showing the connecting portion unfolded relative to the axis of rotation.

[0106] Reference Figure 9a The helical grooves 214 and 224 may include first ends 214-1 and 224-1 and second ends 214-2 and 224-2. The connecting portions 211 and 221 of the rotating structures 210 and 220 may have an arcuate shape, and the center of the arc of the connecting portions 211 and 221 may be a first rotation axis R1 and a second rotation axis R2. The helical grooves 214 and 224 formed along the surfaces of the connecting portions 211 and 221 can be shown in cylindrical coordinates.

[0107] When viewed in a cylindrical coordinate system, the helical grooves 214 and 224 can extend a predetermined length D along the surfaces of the connecting portions 211 and 221 in the axial direction at a predetermined angle θ. For example, the first ends 214-1 and 224-1 and the second ends 214-2 and 224-2 can be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined length D at a predetermined angle θ. In this case, the predetermined angle θ can be... Figure 6The maximum rotation range shown is the same. In an embodiment, the predetermined length D can be substantially the same as the sliding range of the sliding structure 240. In an embodiment, the predetermined angle θ can be 90 degrees or more.

[0108] Reference Figure 9b The first helical groove 214 can extend to have a first torsion angle θt1 relative to the axial direction, and the second helical groove 224 can extend to have a second torsion angle θt2 relative to the axial direction. In this case, the first torsion angle θt1 and the second torsion angle θt2 can have the same magnitude and can point in opposite directions (θt1 = -θt2).

[0109] Figure 9b The positive direction of the vertical axis in the diagram can refer to the first rotational direction. Figure 9b The negative direction of the vertical axis in the diagram can refer to the second rotation direction.

[0110] Reference Figure 9b When the folding motion is performed from the unfolded state, the first spiral groove 214 can rotate, causing the first guide protrusion 241 to move relative to each other in the direction from the first end 241-1 toward the second end 214-2. The second spiral groove 224 can rotate, causing the second guide protrusion 242 to move relative to each other in the direction from the first end 224-1 toward the second end 224-2. In the embodiment, when the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 rotate, the first guide protrusion 241 and the second guide protrusion 242 of the sliding structure 240 can be located in the first ends 214-1 and 224-1 in the unfolded state, and can be located in the second ends 214-2 and 224-2 in the fully folded state.

[0111] Figure 10 This is a view showing the sliding axis and rotation axis of a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] Reference Figure 10 When viewed in the width direction, the first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2 can be located between the first sliding axis 2351 and the second sliding axis 2352. (See also...) Figure 2c The fully folded state can be a state in which the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 are rotated 90 degrees or more from the unfolded state.

[0113] To achieve a rotation angle of 90 degrees or more, the first guide protrusion 241 can be located outside the first rotation axis R1 when viewed in the width direction (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the axial direction), and the second guide protrusion 242 can be located outside the second rotation axis R2 when viewed in the width direction. For example, when viewed in the width direction, the first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2 can be located between the first guide protrusion 241 and the second guide protrusion 242. Therefore, in the state where the first rotating structure 210 is rotated 90 degrees or more (e.g., in a fully folded state), the first guide protrusion 241 can be accommodated in the first helical groove (e.g., Figure 9a and Figure 9b The second guide protrusion 242 can be accommodated in the first helical groove 214. When the second rotating structure 220 is rotated 90 degrees or more (e.g., in a fully folded state), the second guide protrusion 242 can be accommodated in the second helical groove (e.g., in the first helical groove 214). Figure 9a and Figure 9b In the second spiral groove 224). In other words, even when the hinge structure 200 moves to a fully folded state, the connection between the sliding structure 240 and the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 can be maintained.

[0114] In various embodiments, the maximum rotation range of the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 can be limited by limiting the sliding range of the sliding structure 240.

[0115] Figure 11 This is a view showing the sliding motion of the sliding structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] When the hinge structure 200 moves from the unfolded state to the fully folded state, the direction of movement of the sliding structure 240 can be defined as the first axial direction. When the hinge structure 200 moves from the fully folded state to the unfolded state, the direction of movement of the sliding structure 240 can be defined as the second axial direction.

[0117] Reference Figure 11 The sliding structure 240 may include a sliding groove 243. For example, the sliding groove 243 may be formed at a position spaced apart from the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 in the axial direction. The screw 238 included in the fixing structure 230 may be disposed in the sliding groove 243. With the screw 238 received in the sliding groove 243, the sliding structure 240 may slide in the axial direction.

[0118] Reference Figure 11The sliding groove 243 can extend in the axial direction. The sliding groove 243 may include a first end 243-1 located in the second axial direction ② and a second end 243-2 located in the first axial direction ①. In one embodiment, the sliding structure 240 can move in the first axial direction ① until the screw 238 contacts the first end 243-1. In another embodiment, the sliding structure 240 can move in the second axial direction ② until the screw 238 contacts the second end 243-2. ​​As described above, the sliding groove 243 and the screw 238 can define the sliding range of the sliding structure 240.

[0119] In various embodiments, the length of the sliding groove 243 can be related to the rotation angle of the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220. For example, see together Figure 9a and Figure 9b The sliding groove 243 may have a length substantially the same as the distance D measured in the axial direction from the first end 214-1 to the second end 214-2 of the first helical groove 214 of the first rotating structure 210. For example, the sliding groove 243 may have a length substantially the same as the distance measured in the axial direction from the first end 224-1 to the second end 224-2 of the second helical groove 224 of the second rotating structure 220.

[0120] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14a , Figure 14b , Figure 14c , Figure 15a , Figure 15b , Figure 16 , Figure 17a and Figure 17b The friction structure of the hinge structure 200 according to an embodiment is described. The friction structure can be a structure for providing a torque corresponding to the restoring force of the display 140. For example, in a folded state where a portion of the display 140 is bent, the restoring force of the display 140 can be applied to the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220. For example, the restoring force of the display 140 can be the force by which the display 140 returns to a flat state. For example, the restoring force of the display 140 can be proportional to the size of the display 140. Therefore, the hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment can include a friction structure for providing a torque capable of counteracting the restoring force. In particular, when a large display is included, a friction structure capable of providing torque is required.

[0121] Figure 12 This is a view showing the friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] Reference Figure 12In one embodiment, the friction structure 250 may include: a first washer 252, connected to the screw 238 and in surface-to-surface contact with the sliding structure 240; a second washer 253, connected to the screw 238; and an elastic member 251 disposed between the first washer 252 and the second washer 253.

[0123] In an embodiment, the screw 238 may include a body 2381 and a head 2382. For example, the body 2381 may be inserted into the fixing structure 230, and the screw 238 may be secured to the fixing structure 230. The body 2381 may pass through a first washer 252, a second washer 253, and an elastic member 251. The body 2381 may be located in a sliding groove 243 of the sliding structure 240. For example, the body 2381 may be located between a first end 243-1 and a second end 243-2 of the sliding groove 243. The head 2382 may be formed to be larger than the body 2381. The elastic member 251 may include, for example, a leaf spring. The elastic member 251 may apply a spring force in the Z-axis direction. For example, the elastic member 251 may be supported by the second washer 253 and the head 2382 of the screw 238, and the first washer 252 may be pressed toward the fixing structure 230.

[0124] In one embodiment, a first region 240a facing the fixed structure 230 and a second region 240b facing away from the first region 240a can be defined in the sliding structure 240. The sliding groove 243 can have an opening penetrating the first region 240a and the second region 240b. A body 2381 can pass through the sliding groove 243. A head 2382 can be formed larger than the sliding groove 243. The head 2382 can be disposed in the second region 240b of the sliding structure 240. A first washer 252, a second washer 253, and an elastic member 251 can be disposed together with the head 2382 in the second region 240b of the sliding structure 240. For example, the first washer 252 can be in direct contact with the second region 240b, and the second washer 253 can be in direct contact with the head 2382. The elastic member 251 can be disposed between the first washer 252 and the second washer 253.

[0125] In one embodiment, a first friction surface 250a may be formed between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230, and a second friction surface 250b may be formed between the sliding structure 240 and the first washer 252. When the sliding structure 240 moves, frictional force can act on the first friction surface 250a and the second friction surface 250b. For example, a user can fold or unfold the electronic device 100 by applying a force greater than the frictional force. For example, the frictional force may be greater than or equal to the restoring force of the display 140. For example, when a portion of the display 140 is bent, the display 140 may remain bent without returning to a flat surface. As described above, the hinge structure 200 and the electronic device 100 may include a friction structure 250 that provides surface friction to the sliding structure 240. Therefore, the hinge structure 200 and the electronic device 100 can remain in a constant state.

[0126] Figure 13 This is a view showing the friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 14a to 14c This is a view showing the friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] Reference Figure 13 A first region 240a, which is the area surrounding the sliding groove 243, can be defined in the sliding structure 240. A facing region 230a, which faces the first region 240a and forms surface friction with the first region 240a when the sliding structure 240 moves, can be defined in the fixed structure 230.

[0128] Reference Figure 13 , Figure 14a , Figure 14b and Figure 14c The friction structure 250 may include a first washer 252, a second washer 253, an elastic member 251, a first protrusion 240p formed on a first region 240a, and a second protrusion 230p formed on a facing region 230a. Depending on the movement of the sliding structure 240, the first protrusion 240p and the second protrusion 230p may make surface-to-surface contact with each other, or they may be arranged alternately.

[0129] Reference Figures 14a to 14c The body 2381 of the screw 238 can be fixedly connected to the fixing structure 230. For example, the body 2381 of the screw 238 can be inserted into the fixing hole 2383. The body 2381 of the screw 238 can pass through the first washer 252, the second washer 253, and the elastic member 251. The first washer 252 can be supported by the sliding structure 240, and the second washer 253 can be supported by the head 2382 of the screw 238. The elastic member 251 can be disposed between the first washer 252 and the second washer 253 to apply a spring force to the first washer 252 and the second washer 253.

[0130] Figure 14a The hinge structure is shown in its unfolded state. Figure 14c The hinge structure is shown in its fully folded state. Figure 14b The state of free stop is shown.

[0131] Reference Figures 2a to 2c and Figures 14a to 14c The free-stop state can include any state between the unfolded state and the fully folded state (e.g., Figure 2b (The folded state shown). For example, the free-stop state may include a state in which the folded area 143 of the display 140 remains bent. For example, the free-stop state may include a state in which the folded area 143 of the display 140 is bent and the first edge P1 of the first housing 110 and the second edge P2 of the second housing 120 are spaced apart from each other. For example, the free-stop state may include a state in which the third edge P3 of the first housing 110 and the fourth edge P4 of the second housing 120 form an angle larger than the angle in the fully folded state.

[0132] exist Figure 14a In the unfolded state shown, the first protrusion 240p can alternately engage with the second protrusion 230p. For example, the first protrusion 240p can contact the facing region 230a in which the second protrusion 230p is not formed. In this case, the first region 240a of the sliding structure 240 and the facing region 230a of the fixed structure 230 can be spaced apart from each other by a first gap G1 in the Z-axis direction. The elastic member 251 can be in a compressed state to apply a predetermined elastic force to the sliding structure 240. For example, in the unfolded state, when the hinge structure 200 is in... Figure 14b Compared to the free-stop state shown, the elastic member 251 can be left uncompressed.

[0133] exist Figure 14b In the free-stop state shown, the first protrusion 240p can make surface-to-surface contact with the second protrusion 230p. In this case, the first region 240a of the sliding structure 240 and the facing region 230a of the fixed structure 230 can be spaced apart from each other by a second gap G2 in the Z-axis direction. The second gap G2 can be larger than the first gap G1. Therefore, in the free-stop state, when the hinge structure 200 is in... Figure 14a Compared to the extended state shown, the elastic member 251 can be compressed. Figure 14a The elastic force in the unfolded state shown can act on the sliding structure 240.

[0134] exist Figure 14cIn the fully folded state shown, the first protrusion 240p can engage with the second protrusion 230p. For example, the first protrusion 240p can contact the facing region 230a in which the second protrusion 230p is not formed. In this case, the first region 240a of the sliding structure 240 and the facing region 230a of the fixed structure 230 can be spaced apart from each other by a third gap G3 in the Z-axis direction. The third gap G3 can be smaller than the second gap G2. Therefore, in the fully folded state, compared with when the hinge structure 200 is in Figure 14b Compared to the free-stop state shown, the elastic member 251 can remain uncompressed. Figure 14b The small elastic force in the free-stop state shown can act on the sliding structure 240.

[0135] In this embodiment, the elastic force applied to the sliding structure 240 by the elastic member 251 can be related to the frictional force between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230. For example, the frictional force between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230 can increase with the increase of the elastic force. Therefore, when the elastic member 251 is compressed, the frictional force between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230 can increase. For example, in the folded state, the frictional force between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230 can be greater than the frictional force in the fully folded state or the unfolded state. For example, the increased frictional force in the folded state can counteract the restoring force of the display 140 whose folded region 143 is bent. Therefore, the electronic device 100 can stably maintain the folded state with the folded region 143 bent.

[0136] Figure 15a and Figure 15b This is a view showing the sliding structure and the fixed structure of the hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0137] Figure 15a The motion of the hinge structure from the deployed state to the freely stopped state is shown, as well as the motion of the hinge structure from the freely stopped state to the deployed state.

[0138] Reference Figure 15a The first inclined surface 240c of the first protrusion 240p can move in the first direction D1. (See also...) Figures 14a to 14c The gap between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230 can be increased (first gap G1 → second gap G2), and the elastic member (e.g., Figures 14a to 14cThe elastic member 251 can be compressed. Therefore, in order to move from the deployed state to the freely stopped state, the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 require a relatively large force to compress the elastic member 251. When a relatively small force is applied, the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 in the deployed state can remain deployed and not move to the freely stopped state (e.g., not be folded). For example, a user needs to apply a force sufficient to fold the electronic device 100.

[0139] Reference Figure 15a The first inclined surface 240c of the first protrusion 240p can move in the second direction D2. (See also...) Figures 14a to 14c The gap between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230 can be reduced (second gap G2 → first gap G1), and the compressed elastic member 251 can be uncompressed. When the compressed elastic member 251 is uncompressed, it can press the first protrusion 240p in the second direction D2. Therefore, the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 can move from the free-stop state to the deployed state with a relatively small force. For example, when the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 moves from the free-stop state to the deployed state, the elastic energy of the elastic member 251 can be converted into kinetic energy, so the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 can move quickly to the deployed state.

[0140] Figure 15b The motion of the hinge structure from a fully folded state to a freely stopped state is shown, as well as the motion of the hinge structure from a freely stopped state to a fully folded state.

[0141] Reference Figure 15b The first inclined surface 240c of the first protrusion 240p can move in the third direction D3. (See also...) Figures 14a to 14c The gap between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230 can be increased (third gap G3 → second gap G2), and the elastic member 251 can be compressed. Therefore, in order to move from a fully folded state to a freely stopped state, the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 will require a relatively large force to compress the elastic member 251. When a relatively small force is applied, the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 in the fully folded state can remain fully folded without moving to a freely stopped state (e.g., not being unfolded). For example, the user needs to apply a force sufficient to unfold the electronic device 100.

[0142] Reference Figure 15b The first inclined surface 240c of the first protrusion 240p can move in the fourth direction D4. (See also...) Figures 14a to 14cThe gap between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230 can be reduced (second gap G2 → third gap G3), and the compressed elastic member 251 can be uncompressed. When the compressed elastic member 251 is uncompressed, it can press the first protrusion 240p in the fourth direction D4. Therefore, the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 can move from a free-stop state to a fully folded state with a relatively small force. For example, when at least one of the electronic device 100 or the hinge structure 200 moves from a free-stop state to a fully folded state, the elastic energy of the elastic member 251 can be converted into kinetic energy, so the electronic device 100 and / or the hinge structure 200 can move quickly to the fully folded state.

[0143] Reference Figure 15a and Figure 15b The hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment may include a first protrusion 240p of the sliding structure 240 and a second protrusion 230p of the fixing structure 230 that engages with the first protrusion 240p, and may be configured to quickly move to an unfolded state or a fully folded state when released from a free-stop state. Furthermore, the hinge structure 200, having already moved to an unfolded or fully folded state, may remain unfolded or fully folded when no sufficient force is applied to release it from the unfolded or fully folded state. Through the aforementioned movement of the hinge structure 200, the user can perceive that the unfolded or fully folded state of the electronic device 100 is securely held.

[0144] Furthermore, when the hinge structure 200 moves from a free-stop state to an unfolded state or a fully folded state, the first protrusion 240p can move rapidly along the second inclined surface 230c toward the facing area 230a of the fixed structure 230 and collide with the facing area 230a. Similarly, the second protrusion 230p can move rapidly along the first inclined surface 240c toward the first area 240a of the sliding structure 240 and collide with the facing area 230a. The hinge structure 200 can provide the user with a sound or vibration depending on the impact, thereby enabling the user to recognize that the electronic device 100 has successfully reached the unfolded or fully folded state.

[0145] Figure 16 This is a view showing a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17a and Figure 17b This is a view showing the second friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17a and Figure 17bThe hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment may include a fixed structure 230, a sliding structure 240, a first rotating structure 210, a second rotating structure 220, and a second friction structure 350. The fixed structure 230, sliding structure 240, first rotating structure 210, and second rotating structure 220 are as described above. Figure 3 , Figure 4a , Figure 4b , Figure 4c , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9a , Figure 9b and Figure 10 The descriptions are essentially the same. Therefore, the following description will focus on the second friction structure 350.

[0147] Reference Figure 16 The second friction structure 350 may include extension shafts 351 and 352 extending from the fixed structure 230 to opposite sides in the axial direction, and shaft clamping members 353 and 354 included in the sliding structure 240 and connected to the extension shafts 351 and 352.

[0148] In one embodiment, the extension shafts 351 and 352 may include a first extension shaft 351 extending from the fixed structure 230 in a first axial direction ① and a second extension shaft 352 extending from the fixed structure 230 in a second axial direction ②. The first extension shaft 351 and the second extension shaft 352 may be fixed together with the fixed structure 230.

[0149] In one embodiment, the first extension shaft 351 may pass through the sliding structure 240. For example, the sliding structure 240 may slide along the first extension shaft 351. In another embodiment, the first extension shaft 351 may pass through the first shaft clamping member 353. For example, the first shaft clamping member 353 may be press-fitted onto the first extension shaft 351.

[0150] In one embodiment, the second extension shaft 352 may pass through the sliding structure 240. For example, the sliding structure 240 may slide along the second extension shaft 352. In another embodiment, the second extension shaft 352 may pass through the second shaft clamping member 354. For example, the second shaft clamping member 354 may be press-fitted onto the second extension shaft 352.

[0151] In one embodiment, the sliding structure 240 may include a first plate 2481 and a second plate 2482. For example, the first plate 2481 and the second plate 2482 may be located in a first axial direction ① relative to the second guide protrusion 242 of the sliding structure 240. A first axial clamping member 353 may be disposed between the first plate 2481 and the second plate 2482.

[0152] In one embodiment, the first through hole 3591 can be formed through the first plate 2481 and the second plate 2482 of the sliding structure 240. A first extension shaft 351 can be inserted into the first through hole 3591. The first through hole 3591 can be aligned with a hole in the first shaft clamping member 353 (e.g., ...). Figure 19b The hole 3532 is aligned with the first through hole 3591. The first shaft clamping member 353 can be disposed between the first plate 2481 and the second plate 2482, so that the hole is aligned with the first through hole 3591.

[0153] In one embodiment, the sliding structure 240 may include a third plate 2483 and a fourth plate 2484. For example, the third plate 2483 and the fourth plate 2484 may be located in the second axial direction ② from the first guide protrusion 241 of the sliding structure 240. The second axial clamping member 354 may be disposed between the third plate 2483 and the fourth plate 2484.

[0154] In one embodiment, the second through hole 3592 can be formed through the third plate 2483 and the fourth plate 2484 of the sliding structure 240. The second extension shaft 352 can be inserted into the second through hole 3592. The second through hole 3592 can be aligned with a hole in the second shaft clamping member 354 (e.g., ...). Figure 19b The hole 3532 is aligned with the second through hole 3592. The second shaft clamping member 354 can be disposed between the third plate 2483 and the fourth plate 2484, so that the hole is aligned with the second through hole 3592.

[0155] Reference Figure 17a and Figure 17b The thread 3512 fastened to the fixing structure 230 can be formed on the first extension shaft 351, and the corresponding thread can be formed in the fixing structure 230. The length of the first extension shaft 351 extending from the fixing structure 230 can be changed by altering the length by which the thread 3512 and the corresponding thread are fastened to each other. For example, when the first extension shaft 351 is fastened more deeply into the fixing structure 230, the extension length of the first extension shaft 351 can be reduced.

[0156] In one embodiment, the first extension shaft 351 may have a first head 3511. For example, the first head 3511 may be formed on the end of the first extension shaft 351 facing the first axial direction ①. The first head 3511 may define the sliding range of the sliding structure 240 in the first axial direction ①. In another embodiment, the first head 3511 may be formed to be larger than the first through hole 3591 so that it is not inserted into the first through hole 3591 of the sliding structure 240.

[0157] Reference Figure 17a and Figure 17bThe thread 3522 fastened to the fixed structure 230 can be formed on the second extension shaft 352, and a corresponding thread can be formed in the fixed structure 230. The length of the second extension shaft 352 extending from the fixed structure 230 can be changed by altering the length by which the thread 3522 and the corresponding thread are fastened to each other. For example, when the second extension shaft 352 is fastened more deeply into the fixed structure 230, the extension length of the second extension shaft 352 can be reduced.

[0158] In one embodiment, the second extension shaft 352 may have a second head 3521. For example, the second head 3521 may be formed on the end of the second extension shaft 352 facing the second axial direction ②. The second head 3521 may define the sliding range of the sliding structure 240 in the second axial direction ②. In another embodiment, the second head 3521 may be formed to be larger than the second through hole 3592 so that it is not inserted into the second through hole 3592 of the sliding structure 240.

[0159] In this embodiment, the first head 3511 and the second head 3521 can serve as stops defining the sliding range of the sliding structure 240. The sliding structure 240 is movable in a first axial direction ① until the second plate 2482 contacts the first head 3511, and is movable in a second axial direction ② until the fourth plate 2484 contacts the second head 3521. For example, the sliding range of the sliding structure 240 in the first axial direction ① can be changed by altering the length of the first extension shaft 351 threaded to the fixed structure 230. For example, the sliding range of the sliding structure 240 in the second axial direction ② can be changed by altering the length of the second extension shaft 352 threaded to the fixed structure 230.

[0160] As described above, in the hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment, the extension shafts 351 and 352 can be threadedly connected to the fixed structure 230. Therefore, the extension length of the first extension shaft 351 and the extension length of the second extension shaft 352 can be easily changed, and the sliding range of the sliding structure 240 can be easily changed. Furthermore, the rotation angles of the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 associated with the sliding range can be easily changed.

[0161] Figure 18 This is a view showing the shaft clamping member of a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19a and Figure 19b This is a view showing the shaft clamping member of a hinge structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0162] Reference Figure 18 , Figure 19a and Figure 19bThe diagram shows a first extension shaft 351 and a first shaft clamping member 353. However, the following description can also be applied to the second extension shaft 352 and the second shaft clamping member 354.

[0163] In one embodiment, the first shaft clamping member 353 can slide axially with the sliding structure 240 while being disposed between the first plate 2481 and the second plate 2482 of the sliding structure 240. In another embodiment, the nut 355 can be fastened to the first shaft clamping member 353. For example, a thread 3531 can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first shaft clamping member 353, and a thread corresponding to the thread 3531 can be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the nut 355.

[0164] Figure 19a It is along Figure 18 A sectional view taken by line A-A'. Figure 19b This is a view showing the axially facing surface of the first shaft clamping member.

[0165] Reference Figure 19a The first shaft clamping member 353 can be connected to the first extension shaft 351. For example, the first extension shaft 351 can pass through the first shaft clamping member 353. For example, the first shaft clamping member 353 can be press-fitted onto the first extension shaft 351.

[0166] In one embodiment, the nut 355 can be connected to the thread 3531 of the first shaft clamping member 353. The area where the first shaft clamping member 353 is press-fitted onto the first extension shaft 351 may include the area where the nut 355 is located. The nut 355 can press the first shaft clamping member 353, causing the first shaft clamping member 353 to be press-fitted onto the first extension shaft 351.

[0167] Reference Figure 19b The first shaft clamping member 353 may have an inner diameter that is substantially the same as or smaller than the diameter of the first extension shaft 351. For ease of assembly with the first extension shaft 351, a slit 3533 may be formed in the first shaft clamping member 353. The slit 3533 may extend from the surface 353a of the first shaft clamping member 353 facing the first extension shaft 351 to the inner circumferential surface 353b of the first shaft clamping member 353. The slit 3533 may extend along the extension direction of the first extension shaft 351. The slit 3533 may include a plurality of slits 3533 located in different radial directions relative to the central axis of the first extension shaft 351. For example, see reference... Figure 19b Each of the plurality of slits 3533 can form a 90-degree angle with an adjacent slit 3533. However, the number of slits 3533 is not limited to this. Figure 19b The quantity shown.

[0168] In one embodiment, the slits 3533 can be configured such that the gap between the slits 3533 increases in the radial direction when the first extension shaft 351 is inserted into the first shaft clamping member 353. The first extension shaft 351 can be inserted into the hole 3532 of the first shaft clamping member 353 through the slits 3533. In another embodiment, the nut 355 can tighten the slits 3533 such that the inner circumferential surface 353b of the first shaft clamping member 353 presses against the outer circumferential surface of the first extension shaft 351 inserted into the hole 3532.

[0169] Reference Figure 19b The hinge structure 200 can be configured such that the area of ​​the first shaft clamping member 353 press-fitted onto the first extension shaft 351 can be changed by adjusting the position of the nut 355. The area of ​​the first shaft clamping member 353 press-fitted onto the first extension shaft 351 can be proportional to the frictional force between the sliding structure 240 and the fixed structure 230. As described above, the hinge structure 200 can provide various torques by simply changing the position of the nut 355.

[0170] Figure 20 This is a view showing a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 21 This is an exploded perspective view showing a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 22 This is a view showing the third friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 22 It is shown Figure 20 An enlarged view of the interior of part A in the image.

[0171] Reference Figure 20 In an embodiment, the hinge structure 200 may include a fixed structure 230, a first rotating structure 210, a second rotating structure 220, a sliding structure 240, and an arm structure 301.

[0172] The fixed structure 230, the first rotating structure 210, the second rotating structure 220, and the sliding structure 240 shown above are consistent with the above reference. Figure 3 , Figure 4a , Figure 4b , Figure 4c , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9a and Figure 9b The descriptions are essentially the same. For example, the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 can be connected to the fixed structure 230 to rotate about the first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2, respectively. The sliding structure 240 can be slidably connected to the fixed structure 230 to associate the rotation of the first rotating structure 210 with the rotation of the second rotating structure 220.

[0173] In an embodiment, the hinge structure 200 may further include an arm structure 301 and a third friction structure.

[0174] In an embodiment, the arm structure 301 may include a first arm 310, a second arm 320, a first arm shaft 311, a second arm shaft 321, a first sliding pin 312, and a second sliding pin 322. The first arm shaft 311, the second arm shaft 321, the first sliding pin 312, and the second sliding pin 322 may extend parallel to the axial direction.

[0175] In one embodiment, the hinge structure 200 may include a fixing member 330 disposed on the fixing structure 230 in a first axial direction ① and a second axial direction ②. The fixing member 330 may be configured to support the rotation of the first arm shaft 311 and the second arm shaft 321.

[0176] In an embodiment, the first rotating structure 210 may include a first connecting portion 211 rotatably connected to the fixed structure 230, and a first housing extending from the first connecting portion 211 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction and connected thereto (e.g., Figure 1 The first extension 212 of the first housing 110 and a plurality of first friction portions (i.e., first friction portions 216) that generate friction with the first friction plate 361. The first friction portions 216 can extend from the first extension 212 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. The first connecting portion 211 can be accommodated in the first opening region 2391 of the fixing structure 230. The first guide portion (e.g., Figure 4b The first guiding portion 213 may be formed on the first connecting portion 211.

[0177] In one embodiment, a first sliding groove 215 may be formed in the axially facing side surface of the first friction portion 216. A first sliding pin 312 and a first fixing pin 313 may be accommodated in the first sliding groove 215. When the first rotating structure 210 and the first arm 310 rotate, the first sliding groove 215 may form a sliding path for the first sliding pin 312 and the first fixing pin 313. In another embodiment, a first friction plate 361 may be disposed axially between the first friction portions 216. The first friction portions 216 and the first friction plate 361 may be configured to make surface-to-surface contact with each other.

[0178] In one embodiment, the first arm 310 can be coupled to the fixed member 330 so as to rotate relative to the fixed structure 230 together with the first rotating structure 210. The first arm 310 can be configured to slide relative to the first rotating structure 210 when the first rotating structure 210 rotates about a first rotation axis R1. In one embodiment, the first arm 310 can rotate about a first arm axis 311 fastened to the fixed member 330. The first arm 310 can be axially disposed on one side of the first rotating structure 210 or on opposite sides of each other. The first sliding pin 312 and the first fixing pin 313 can rotate together with the first arm 310 about the first arm axis 311. In one embodiment, the first arm 310 can slide relative to the first rotating structure 210 with the first sliding pin 312 received in the first sliding groove 215 of the first rotating structure 210. For example, when the first arm 310 and the first rotating structure 210 rotate, the first sliding pin 312 and the first fixing pin 313 can move along the first sliding groove 215.

[0179] In this embodiment, the first through hole 3141 and the second through hole 3142 can be formed through the first arm 310 and the first friction plate 361. For example, the first sliding pin 312 can be inserted into the first through hole 3141, and the first fixing pin 313 can be inserted into the second through hole 3142. Therefore, the first arm 310 and the first friction plate 361 can be configured to rotate together about the first arm axis 311. Furthermore, the first sliding pin 312 and the first fixing pin 313 can further extend into the first sliding groove 215 formed in the first friction portion 216, and can be configured such that when the first rotating structure 210 rotates, the first arm 310 and the first friction plate 361 slide together with respect to the first rotating structure 210.

[0180] In this embodiment, the first elastic member 318 and the first nut member 319 can be connected to the first sliding pin 312. The first nut member 319 can be disposed on the end of the first sliding pin 312, and the first elastic member 318 can be disposed between the first arm 310 and the first nut member 319. The first elastic member 318 can be supported on the first nut member 319 and can apply elastic force to the first friction plate 361 or the first arm 310 in the axial direction. When the first arm 310 and the first rotating structure 210 are repeatedly driven, the first friction plate 361 and the first friction portion 216 may wear. When wear accumulates, the first friction plate 361 and the first friction portion 216 may not be able to generate sufficient friction. The first elastic member 318 and the first nut member 319 can compensate for the amount of wear by pressing at least one of the first friction plate 361 or the first friction portion 216, so that the first friction plate 361 and the first friction portion 216 generate sufficient friction.

[0181] In an embodiment, the second rotating structure 220 may include a second connecting portion 221 rotatably connected to the fixed structure 230, and a portion extending from the second connecting portion 221 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction and connected to the second housing (e.g., Figure 1 The second extension 222 of the second housing 120 and a plurality of second friction portions (e.g., second friction portions 226) that rub against the second friction plate 362. The second friction portions 226 can extend from the second extension 222 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. The second connecting portion 221 can be accommodated in the second opening region 2392 of the fixing structure 230. The second guide portion (e.g., Figure 4c The second guide portion 223 may be formed on the second connecting portion 221.

[0182] In one embodiment, a second sliding groove 225 may be formed in the axially facing side surface of the second friction portion 226. A second sliding pin 322 and a second fixing pin 323 may be accommodated in the second sliding groove 225. When the second rotating structure 220 and the second arm 320 rotate, the second sliding groove 225 may form a sliding path for the second sliding pin 322 and the second fixing pin 323. In another embodiment, a second friction plate 362 may be disposed axially between the second friction portions 226. The second friction portions 226 and the second friction plate 362 may be configured to make surface-to-surface contact with each other.

[0183] In one embodiment, the second arm 320 can be coupled to the fixed member 330 so as to rotate relative to the fixed structure 230 together with the second rotating structure 220. The second arm 320 can be configured to slide relative to the second rotating structure 220 when the second rotating structure 220 rotates about the second rotation axis R2. In one embodiment, the second arm 320 can rotate about the second arm axis 321 fastened to the fixed member 330. The second arm 320 can be axially disposed on one side of the second rotating structure 220 or on opposite sides of each other. The second sliding pin 322 and the second fixing pin 323 can rotate together with the second arm 320 about the second arm axis 321. In one embodiment, the second arm 320 can slide relative to the second rotating structure 220 with the second sliding pin 322 received in the second sliding groove 225 of the second rotating structure 220. For example, when the second arm 320 and the second rotating structure 220 rotate, the second sliding pin 322 and the second fixing pin 323 can move along the second sliding groove 225.

[0184] In this embodiment, the third through hole 3241 and the fourth through hole 3242 can pass through the second arm 320 and the second friction plate 362. For example, the second sliding pin 322 can be inserted into the third through hole 3241, and the second fixing pin 323 can be inserted into the fourth through hole 3242. Therefore, the second arm 320 and the second friction plate 362 can be configured to rotate together about the second arm axis 321. Furthermore, the second sliding pin 322 and the second fixing pin 323 can further extend into the second sliding groove 225 formed in the second friction portion 226, and can be configured such that when the second rotating structure 220 rotates, the second arm 320 and the second friction plate 362 slide together relative to the second rotating structure 220.

[0185] In this embodiment, the second elastic member 328 and the second nut member 329 can be connected to the second sliding pin 322. The second nut member 329 can be disposed on the end of the second sliding pin 322, and the second elastic member 328 can be disposed between the second arm 320 and the second nut member 329. The second elastic member 328 can be supported on the second nut member 329 and can apply elastic force to the second friction plate 362 or the second arm 320 in the axial direction. When the second arm 320 and the second rotating structure 220 are repeatedly driven, the second friction plate 362 and the second friction portion 226 may wear. When wear accumulates, the second friction plate 362 and the second friction portion 226 may not be able to generate sufficient friction. The second elastic member 328 and the second nut member 329 can compensate for the amount of wear by pressing at least one of the second friction plate 362 or the second friction portion 226, so that the second friction plate 362 and the second friction portion 226 generate sufficient friction.

[0186] In an embodiment, the third friction structure may include a first fixing pin 313, a second fixing pin 323, a first friction plate 361, and a second friction plate 362.

[0187] In one embodiment, the first friction plate 361 may be configured to rotate about a first arm axis 311 together with the first arm 310 and slide relative to the first rotating structure 210. For example, the first friction plate 361 may rotate with the first arm 310 via a first fixing pin 313 and a first sliding pin 312. For example, the first sliding pin 312 may extend through a first through hole 3141 penetrating the first friction plate 361 and the first arm 310 into a first sliding groove 215. The first fixing pin 313 may extend through a second through hole 3142 penetrating the first friction plate 361 and the first arm 310 into the first sliding groove 215. For example, when the first arm 310 and the first rotating structure 210 rotate, the first friction plate 361 may rotate along the same rotation path as the first arm 310. In another embodiment, the first friction plate 361 may be configured to contact a first friction portion 216 of the first rotating structure 210 in the axial direction. For example, at least a portion of the first friction plate 361 may be disposed between the first friction portions 216. In one embodiment, the first fixing pin 313 and the first sliding pin 312 can pass through the first friction plate 361. For example, the first fixing pin 313 and the first sliding pin 312 can pass through the first sliding groove 215 of the first friction portion 216 and can also pass through the first friction plate 361. In another embodiment, when the first rotating structure 210 and the first arm 310 rotate, the first arm 310 and the first friction plate 361 can slide relative to the first rotating structure 210 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. At this time, surface friction can be generated between the first friction plate 361 and the first friction portion 216 of the first rotating structure 210.

[0188] In one embodiment, the second friction plate 362 may be configured to rotate about the second arm axis 321 together with the second arm 320 and slide relative to the second rotating structure 220. For example, the second friction plate 362 may rotate with the second arm 320 via a second fixing pin 323 and a second sliding pin 322. For example, the second sliding pin 322 may extend through a third through hole 3241 penetrating the second friction plate 362 and the second arm 320 into a second sliding groove 225. The second fixing pin 323 may extend through a fourth through hole 3242 penetrating the second friction plate 362 and the second arm 320 into the second sliding groove 225. In one embodiment, when the second arm 320 and the second rotating structure 220 rotate, the second friction plate 362 may rotate along the same rotation path as the second arm 320. In one embodiment, the second friction plate 362 may be configured to contact the second friction portion 226 of the second rotating structure 220 in the axial direction. For example, at least a portion of the second friction plate 362 may be disposed between the second friction portions 226. In one embodiment, the second fixing pin 323 and the second sliding pin 322 can pass through the second friction plate 362. For example, the second fixing pin 323 and the second sliding pin 322 can pass through the second sliding groove 225 of the second friction portion 226 and can pass through the second friction plate 362. In one embodiment, when the second rotating structure 220 and the second arm 320 rotate, the second arm 320 and the second friction plate 362 can slide relative to the second rotating structure 220 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. At this time, surface friction can be generated between the second friction plate 362 and the second friction portion 226 of the second rotating structure 220.

[0189] Figure 23 This is a view illustrating the folding movement of a hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 23 In the middle, the following was omitted. Figure 20 The hinge structure 200 shown in the figure 22 has a fixed structure 230 and a sliding structure 240.

[0190] Reference Figure 23 When the hinge structure 200 is folded or unfolded, the rotating structures 210 and 220, as well as the arms 310 and 320, can rotate about different axes. For example, the rotating structures 210 and 220, as well as the arms 310 and 320, can rotate along different rotation paths. Due to the difference in rotation paths between the rotating structures 210 and 220 and the arms 310 and 320, the arms 310 and 320 can slide when the hinge structure 200 is folded or unfolded.

[0191] Reference Figure 23The friction portions 216 and 226 of the rotating structures 210 and 220 may be integrally formed with the extension portions 212 and 222, or may be detachable from the extension portions 212 and 222. For example, the rotating structures 210 and 220 may also include a third retaining pin 217 for connecting the respective friction portions 216 and 226 to the extension portions 212 and 222.

[0192] In this embodiment, the first rotating structure 210 can rotate about a first rotation axis R1 in a first rotation direction. For example, in a folding motion, the first rotating structure 210 can rotate clockwise. For example, based on the unfolded state, the point where the first sliding pin 312 is located in the first rotating structure 210 can be defined as a first point A1. In both the folding and unfolding motions, the first point A1 of the first rotating structure 210 can move along a first rotation path Z1.

[0193] Reference Figure 23 The first arm 310 and the first sliding pin 312 can rotate about the first arm axis 311. For example, during the folding motion, the first arm 310 and the first sliding pin 312 can rotate clockwise. For example, in the unfolded state, the first sliding pin 312 can be located at the first point A1, and in the folded state, the first sliding pin 312 can be located at a position spaced apart from the first point A1 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. The first sliding pin 312 can move along the second rotation path Z2 during the folding and unfolding motions.

[0194] In various embodiments, the first rotation path Z1 and the second rotation path Z2 may be different from each other. For example, the first rotation axis R1 and the first arm axis 311 may be parallel to each other, but they may not be consistent with each other, and the rotation radius of the first rotation structure 210 and the rotation radius of the first arm 310 may not be consistent with each other.

[0195] Therefore, during the folding and unfolding movements, the first arm 310 and the first sliding pin 312 can slide relative to the first rotating structure 210. When the first sliding pin 312 is accommodated in the first sliding groove 215 of the first rotating structure 210, the sliding movement of the first sliding pin 312 and the first arm 310 can be guided. In an embodiment, when performing a folding movement from the unfolded state, the distance between the first sliding pin 312 and the first point A1 can be increased. When performing an unfolding movement from the fully folded state, the distance between the first sliding pin 312 and the first point A1 can be decreased.

[0196] In this embodiment, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate about the second rotation axis R2 in the second rotation direction. For example, in the folding motion, the second rotating structure 220 can rotate counterclockwise. For example, based on the unfolded state, the point where the second sliding pin 322 is located in the second rotating structure 220 can be defined as the second point A2. In both the folding and unfolding motions, the second point A2 can move along the third rotation path Z3.

[0197] In this embodiment, the second arm 320 and the second sliding pin 322 can rotate about the second arm axis 321. For example, during the folding motion, the second arm 320 and the second sliding pin 322 can rotate counterclockwise. For example, in the unfolded state, the second sliding pin 322 can be located at the second point A2, and in the folded state, the second sliding pin 322 can be located at a position spaced apart from the second point A2 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. The second sliding pin 322 can move along the fourth rotation path Z4 during both the folding and unfolding motions.

[0198] In various embodiments, the third rotation path Z3 and the fourth rotation path Z4 may be different from each other. For example, the second rotation axis R2 and the second arm axis 321 may be parallel to each other, but they may not be consistent with each other, and the rotation radius of the second rotation structure 220 and the rotation radius of the second arm 320 may not be consistent with each other.

[0199] Therefore, during the folding and unfolding movements, the second arm 320 and the second sliding pin 322 can slide relative to the second rotating structure 220. When the second sliding pin 322 is accommodated in the second sliding groove 225 of the second rotating structure 220, the sliding movement of the second sliding pin 322 and the second arm 320 can be guided. In an embodiment, when performing a folding movement from the unfolded state, the distance between the second sliding pin 322 and the second point A2 can increase. When performing an unfolding movement from the fully folded state, the distance between the second sliding pin 322 and the second point A2 can decrease.

[0200] Figures 24a to 24c This is a view showing the third friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 24a The unfolded state is shown. Figure 24c The fully folded state is shown. Figure 24b The state of free stop is shown.

[0201] During the folding and unfolding movements, friction plates 361 and 362 can rotate together with arms 310 and 320, and can slide relative to friction portions 216 and 226 of rotating structures 210 and 220. During the sliding movement, friction can act between friction portions 216 and 226 and friction plates 361 and 362.

[0202] In one embodiment, the hinge structure 200 may be configured such that the contact area between the friction portions 216 and 226 and the friction plates 361 and 362 varies depending on the state of the hinge structure 200. In another embodiment, the hinge structure 200 may be configured such that the area of ​​the contact surface formed by the friction plates 361 and 362 and the friction portions 216 and 226 increases as the system approaches a free-stop state.

[0203] Reference Figures 24a to 24c The diagram shows the first friction portion 216 and the first friction plate 361 of the first rotating structure 210. However, the following description can also be applied to the second friction portion 226 and the second friction plate 362 of the second rotating structure 220.

[0204] In an embodiment, each first friction portion 216 may include a first portion 216a having a first width W1 and a second portion 216b having a second width W2 smaller than the first width W1. In this case, the width of the first friction portion 216 may be a length measured in the axial direction. The second portion 216b of the first friction portion 216 may extend from the first portion 216a to the opposite side in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. For example, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction, the first portion 216a may be formed between the second portions 216b. For example, when viewed from the first extension portion 212 of the first rotating structure 210 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction, one of the second portions 216b may be connected to the first extension portion 212, and the first portion 216a may extend from said one second portion 216b, while the other second portion 216b may extend from the first portion 216a.

[0205] In an embodiment, in the unfolded state, the first friction portion 216 and the first friction plate 361 can form a contact surface having a first area AR1. For example, in the unfolded state, at least a portion of the first friction plate 361 can be configured as a second portion 216b facing the first friction portion 216. For example, a portion of the first friction plate 361 can be spaced apart from the inclined surface 216-2 of the second portion 216b, and other portions of the first friction plate 361 can contact the opposite surface 216-1 of the first portion 216a.

[0206] In this embodiment, in the free-stop state, the first friction portion 216 and the first friction plate 361 can form a contact surface having a second area AR2. The second area AR2 can be larger than the first area AR1. For example, the first friction plate 361 can contact the opposite surface 216-1 of the first portion 216a.

[0207] In this embodiment, in the fully folded state, the first friction portion 216 and the first friction plate 361 can form a contact surface having a third area AR3. The third area AR3 can be smaller than the second area AR2. For example, in the fully folded state, at least a portion of the first friction plate 361 can be configured as a second portion 216b facing the first friction portion 216. For example, a portion of the first friction plate 361 can be spaced apart from the inclined surface 216-2 of the second portion 216b, and other portions of the first friction plate 361 can contact the opposite surface 216-1 of the first portion 216a.

[0208] The first ends 215-1 and 225-1, which are relatively far away from the first arm shaft 311 (or the first rotation axis R1), and the second ends 215-2 and 225-2, which are relatively close to the first arm shaft 311 (or the first rotation axis R1), can be defined in each first sliding groove 215.

[0209] In this embodiment, when performing a folding motion from the unfolded state to the free-stopped state, the first friction plate 361 can move together with the first sliding pin 312 toward the second ends 215-2 and 225-2 of the first sliding groove 215. At this time, the contact area between the first friction plate 361 and the first friction portion 216 can be increased.

[0210] In this embodiment, when performing the unfolding motion from a fully folded state to a free-stopped state, the first friction plate 361 can move together with the first sliding pin 312 toward the first ends 215-1 and 225-1 of the first sliding groove 215. At this time, the contact area between the first friction plate 361 and the first friction portion 216 can be increased.

[0211] The hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment can be configured to provide greater friction in the free-stop state than in the unfolded or fully folded state. The hinge structure 200 can stably maintain any folded state included in the free-stop section by using friction. Therefore, the hinge structure 200 can provide free-stop sections capable of stably maintaining a folded state at various angles.

[0212] Figure 25 This is a view showing a portion of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 26a to 26c This is a view showing the fourth friction structure of the hinge structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0213] Figure 26a The unfolded state is shown. Figure 26c The fully folded state is shown. Figure 26b The folded state included in the free-stop section is shown.

[0214] Reference Figure 25In an embodiment, the fourth friction structure 304 may include a first cam structure 371 formed on the first arm 310, a second cam structure 372 formed on the second arm 320, a cam member 380 connected to the first arm shaft 311 and the second arm shaft 321, and an elastic member 390 disposed between a fixed member (e.g., one of the fixed members 330) and the cam member 380. The fixed member 330 may be fixedly disposed on the hinge housing (e.g., Figure 1 Inside the hinge housing 130. The fixing member 330 can support the rotation of the first arm shaft 311 and the second arm shaft 321.

[0215] In one embodiment, a first cam structure 371 may be formed in the area surrounding a through hole in the first arm 310 through which the first arm shaft 311 passes. The first cam structure 371 may engage with a first cam portion 381 of the cam member 380. The first cam structure 371 may include a first protrusion 371b projecting toward the first cam portion 381 of the cam member 380 and a first recess 371a formed between the first protrusions 371b.

[0216] In one embodiment, a second cam structure 372 may be formed in the area surrounding a through-hole in the second arm 320 through which the second arm shaft 321 passes. The second cam structure 372 may engage with a second cam portion 382 of the cam member 380. The second cam structure 372 may include a second protrusion 372b projecting toward the second cam portion 382 of the cam member 380 and a second recess 372a formed between the second protrusions 372b.

[0217] In one embodiment, the cam member 380 may be configured such that the first arm shaft 311 and the second arm shaft 321 pass through the cam member 380. The cam member 380 may be configured to be axially movable along the first arm shaft 311 and the second arm shaft 321. For example, the cam member 380 may be pressed axially by the elastic member 390. For example, the cam member 380 may be axially movable to compress the elastic member 390.

[0218] In one embodiment, the cam member 380 may include a first cam portion 381 engaging with a first cam structure 371, a second cam portion 382 engaging with a second cam structure 372, and a connecting portion 383 connecting the first cam portion 381 and the second cam portion 382. In another embodiment, the first cam portion 381 and the second cam portion 382 may move together in the axial direction via the connecting portion 383. In another embodiment, the first cam portion 381 may include a third protrusion 381b projecting toward the first cam structure 371 and a third recess 381a formed between the third protrusions 381b. In another embodiment, the second cam portion 382 may include a fourth protrusion 382b projecting toward the second cam structure 372 and a fourth recess 382a formed between the fourth protrusions 382b.

[0219] In one embodiment, the elastic member 390 may be disposed between the cam member 380 and the fixed member (e.g., one of the fixed members 330). The elastic member 390 may apply a spring force to the cam member 380 in the axial direction. For example, a compressed elastic member 390 may increase the friction between the first cam structure 371 and the first cam portion 381, as well as the friction between the second cam structure 372 and the second cam portion 382.

[0220] In the deployed state, the first protrusion 371b of the first cam structure 371 can contact the third recess 381a of the first cam portion 381, and the first recess 371a of the first cam structure 371 can contact the third protrusion 381b of the first cam portion 381. The second protrusion 372b of the second cam structure 372 can contact the fourth recess 382a of the second cam portion 382, ​​and the second recess 372a of the second cam structure 372 can contact the fourth protrusion 382b of the second cam portion 382. At this time, the elastic member 390 can be less compressed than when the hinge structure 200 is in the free stop section, or it can be in a balanced state.

[0221] In the folded state included in the free-stop section, the first protrusion 371b of the first cam structure 371 can contact the third protrusion 381b of the first cam portion 381. The second protrusion 372b of the second cam structure 372 can contact the fourth protrusion 382b of the second cam portion 382. The cam member 380 can be positioned closer to the fixed member (e.g., one of the fixed members 330) than when the hinge structure 200 is in the deployed state, and depending on the movement of the cam member 380, the elastic member 390 can be compressed more than when the hinge structure 200 is in the deployed state.

[0222] In the fully folded state, the first protrusion 371b of the first cam structure 371 can contact the third recess 381a of the first cam portion 381, and the first recess 371a of the first cam structure 371 can contact the third protrusion 381b of the first cam portion 381. The second protrusion 372b of the second cam structure 372 can contact the fourth recess 382a of the second cam portion 382, ​​and the second recess 372a of the second cam structure 372 can contact the fourth protrusion 382b of the second cam portion 382. At this time, the elastic member 390 can be less compressed than when the hinge structure 200 is in the free stop section, or it can be in a balanced state.

[0223] In the folded state included in the free-stop section, the compressed elastic member 390 can generate greater friction between the first cam structure 371 and the first cam portion 381, and can also generate greater friction between the second cam structure 372 and the second cam portion 382. This friction can act in the opposite direction to the movement of the first arm 310 and the second arm 320. Due to this friction, a greater force is required to rotate the first arm 310 and the second arm 320.

[0224] For example, the driving force required to perform an unfolding or folding motion from a folded state, including in the free-stop section, can be greater than the driving force required to perform the unfolding or folding motion from an unfolded state or a fully folded state. That is, in the free-stop section, the hinge structure 200 can stably maintain the folded state through the engagement of the cam structures 371 and 372 with the cam member 380. Therefore, the hinge structure 200 can provide a free-stop section capable of stably maintaining the folded state at various angles.

[0225] When the hinge structure 200 disengages from the free-stop section and moves to the unfolded or fully folded state, the contact between the first protrusion 371b and the third protrusion 381b can be released, and the first protrusion 371b and the third protrusion 381b can move toward the third recess 381a and the first recess 371a. Furthermore, the contact between the second protrusion 372b and the fourth protrusion 382b can be released, and the second protrusion 372b and the fourth protrusion 382b can move toward the fourth recess 382a and the second recess 372a. At this time, the compressed elastic member 390 can be decompressed, and the protrusions 371b, 372b, 381b, and 382b can move more rapidly. This can be understood as the potential energy stored in the compressed elastic member 390 being converted into kinetic energy.

[0226] When the hinge structure 200 moves from the unfolded state and the fully folded state to the free stop section, the first protrusion 371b and the third protrusion 381b can move along the inclined surface to make surface-to-surface contact with each other. Furthermore, the second protrusion 372b and the fourth protrusion 382b can move along the inclined surface to make surface-to-surface contact with each other. At this time, the cam member 380 can move axially toward the fixed member (e.g., one of the fixed members 330) along the first arm axis 311 and the second arm axis 321, and the elastic member 390 can be compressed. That is, in order for the hinge structure 200 to move to the free stop section, a relatively larger force is required to compress the elastic member 390 compared to when the hinge structure 200 moves from the free stop section.

[0227] Therefore, when a relatively small force is applied, the electronic device 100 and / or hinge structure 200, which are in an unfolded or fully folded state, can remain unfolded or fully folded without moving to a free-stopping state (e.g., not being folded or unfolded). For example, the user needs to apply a force sufficient to fold the electronic device 100.

[0228] The hinge structure 200 according to the embodiment can be configured to quickly move to an unfolded state or a fully folded state when it leaves the free stop section. When no sufficient force is applied to disengage from the unfolded or fully folded state, the hinge structure 200, having already moved to the unfolded or fully folded state, can remain unfolded or fully folded. Through the aforementioned movement of the hinge structure 200, the user can perceive that the unfolded or fully folded state of the electronic device 100 is securely maintained.

[0229] Furthermore, when the hinge structure 200 moves from the free-stop section to the unfolded or fully folded state, the compressed elastic member 390 may not be compressed, and the protrusions 371b, 372b, 381b, and 382b may collide with the recesses 371a, 372a, 381a, and 382a. The collision may produce sound or vibration, thereby enabling the user to recognize that the electronic device 100 has successfully reached the unfolded or fully folded state.

[0230] The hinge structure 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a fixed structure 230, including a first guide rail 233 having an arcuate shape and a second guide rail 234 having an arcuate shape, wherein the center of the arc of the first guide rail is a first rotation axis R1 parallel to the axial direction, and the center of the arc of the second guide rail is a second rotation axis R2 parallel to the axial direction; a first rotating structure 210, including a first guide portion 213 housed in the first guide rail 233 and a first helical groove 214 surrounding and extending along the first rotation axis R1, and rotating about the first rotation axis R1; a second rotating structure 220, including a second guide portion 223 housed in the second guide rail 234 and a second helical groove 224 surrounding and extending along the second rotation axis R2, and rotating about the second rotation axis R2; and a sliding structure 240, including a first guide protrusion 241 housed in the first helical groove 214 and a second guide protrusion 242 housed in the second helical groove 224, and sliding in the axial direction relative to the fixed structure 230 when the first rotating structure 210 and the second rotating structure 220 rotate.

[0231] In various embodiments, the first rotating structure 210 may include a first connecting portion 211 having a substantially cylindrical shape and including a first arcuate surface 211a centered on a first axis of rotation R1. A first guide portion 213 may include a protrusion projecting in the direction of the first axis of rotation R1 and received in a first guide rail 233. A first helical groove 214 may be formed on the first arcuate surface 211a. The second rotating structure 220 may include a second connecting portion 221 having a substantially cylindrical shape and including a second arcuate surface 221a centered on a second axis of rotation R2. The second guide portion 223 may include a protrusion projecting in the direction of the second axis of rotation R2 and received in a second guide rail 234. A second helical groove 224 may be formed on the second arcuate surface 221a.

[0232] In various embodiments, the fixed structure 230 may include sliding shafts 2351, 2352 extending in the axial direction, and the sliding structure 240 may be slidably connected to the sliding shafts 2351, 2352.

[0233] In various embodiments, the first helical groove 214 may extend a first length D in the direction of the first rotation axis R1 and may extend at a first angle θ1 in the first rotation direction relative to the first rotation axis R1, and the second helical groove 224 may extend a second length D in the direction of the second rotation axis R2 that is substantially the same as the first length D and may extend at a second angle θ2 in the second rotation direction relative to the second rotation axis R2 that is substantially the same as the first angle, the second rotation direction being opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0234] In various embodiments, the sliding structure 240 may be configured to slide a first length D in the axial direction.

[0235] In various embodiments, the first helical groove 214 may extend in a direction forming a first torsion angle θt1 relative to the first rotation axis R1, and the second helical groove 224 may extend in a direction forming a second torsion angle θt2 relative to the second rotation axis R2, the second torsion angle being equal to the first torsion angle.

[0236] In various embodiments, when viewed in the axial direction, the first guide protrusion 241 and the second guide protrusion 242 may be located between the first rotation axis R1 and the second rotation axis R2.

[0237] In various embodiments, the sliding structure 240 may include a first region 240a facing the fixed structure 230, a second region 240b opposite to the first region 240a, and a sliding groove 243 formed through the first and second regions. The fixed structure 230 may include a facing region 230a facing the first region 240a of the sliding structure 240 and a screw 238 protruding from the facing region 230a. The screw 238 may penetrate the sliding structure 240 by passing through the sliding groove 243.

[0238] In various embodiments, the sliding groove 243 may extend a first length D in the axial direction, and when viewed in the axial direction, the first helical groove 214 and the second helical groove 224 may extend a first length D.

[0239] In various embodiments, the sliding structure 240 can be configured to move to one side in the axial direction until the screw 238 contacts the first end 243-1 of the sliding groove 243 and to the opposite side in the axial direction until the screw 238 contacts the second end 243-2 of the sliding groove 243.

[0240] In various embodiments, the screw 238 may include a head 2382 disposed on a second region 240b of the sliding structure 240 and a body 2381 extending through a sliding groove 243 and from the head 2382 to the fixed structure 230. The hinge structure may also include an elastic member 251 disposed between the head 2382 and the second region 240b and pressing the sliding structure 240 toward the fixed structure 230.

[0241] In various embodiments, the sliding structure 240 may include a plurality of first protrusions 240p formed on a first region 240a around the sliding groove 243 and projecting toward the fixing structure 230. The fixing structure 230 may include a plurality of second protrusions 230p formed on its facing region 230a and engaging with the plurality of first protrusions 240p. The elastic member 251 may be configured to be compressed when the first protrusions 240p and the second protrusions 230p engage to make surface-to-surface contact with each other.

[0242] In various embodiments, the fixing structure 230 may include a first extension shaft 351 extending to one side in an axial direction and a second extension shaft 352 extending to the opposite side in an axial direction. Each of the first extension shaft 351 and the second extension shaft 352 may be configured to pass through a portion of the sliding structure 240. The sliding structure 240 may include a first shaft clamping member 353 and a second shaft clamping member 354, the first extension shaft 351 passing through the first shaft clamping member 353 and the first shaft clamping member 353 being at least partially press-fitted onto the first extension shaft 351, and the second extension shaft 352 passing through the second shaft clamping member 354 and the second shaft clamping member 354 being at least partially press-fitted onto the second extension shaft 352.

[0243] In various embodiments, the first shaft clamping member 353 may include a plurality of first slits (e.g., slits 3533) located radially relative to the first extension shaft 351, the plurality of first slits being formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first shaft clamping member 353 and extending in the axial direction. The second shaft clamping member 354 may include a plurality of second slits (e.g., slits 3533) located radially relative to the second extension shaft 352, the plurality of second slits being formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second shaft clamping member 354 and extending in the axial direction.

[0244] In various embodiments, the first shaft clamping member 353 and the second shaft clamping member 354 may have threads 3531 formed on their outer surfaces. The hinge structure may also include a nut 355, which is fastened to the threads 3531 and is movable in the axial direction relative to the first shaft clamping member 353 and the second shaft clamping member 354 along the threads. The nut 355 may be configured to press-fit the first shaft clamping member 353 onto the first extension shaft 351 and press-fit the second shaft clamping member 354 onto the second extension shaft 352.

[0245] In various embodiments, the hinge structure may further include: a first arm shaft 311 extending from the fixed structure 230 parallel to a first rotation axis R1; a first arm 310 rotatable about the first arm shaft 311 and including a first sliding pin 312 parallel to the first arm shaft 311; a second arm shaft 321 extending from the fixed structure 230 parallel to a second rotation axis R2; and a second arm 320 rotatable about the second arm shaft 321 and including a second sliding pin 322 parallel to the second arm shaft 321. The first arm 310 may be configured to slide relative to the first rotating structure 210 with the first sliding pin 312 received in a first sliding groove 215 of the first rotating structure 210. The second arm 320 may be configured to slide relative to the second rotating structure 220 with the second sliding pin 322 received in a second sliding groove 225 of the second rotating structure 220.

[0246] In various embodiments, the first rotating structure 210 may include a first friction portion 216, which includes a first sliding groove 215 and extends in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis R1. The second rotating structure 220 may include a second friction portion 226, which includes a second sliding groove 225 and extends in a direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis R2. The hinge structure may also include a first friction plate 361 and a second friction plate 362. The first friction plate 361 makes surface-to-surface contact with the first friction portion 216 and is connected to a first sliding pin 312 to rotate together with the first arm 310 about a first arm axis 311. The second friction plate 362 makes surface-to-surface contact with the second friction portion 226 and is connected to a second sliding pin 322 to rotate together with the second arm 320 about a second arm axis 321.

[0247] In various embodiments, each of the first friction portion 216 and the second friction portion 226 may include a first portion 216a and a second portion 216b. The first portion 216a has a first length W1 when viewed in the axial direction and is in surface-to-surface contact with each of the first friction plate 361 and the second friction plate 362. The second portion 216b has a second length W2 less than the first length W1 and is spaced apart from each of the first friction plate 361 and the second friction plate 362. The second portion 216b may be connected to the opposite side of the first portion 216a in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0248] In various embodiments, the hinge structure may further include a cam member 380 and an elastic member 390 that applies a spring force to the cam member 380, the cam member 380 being coupled to a first arm shaft 311 and a second arm shaft 321 for axial movement along the first arm shaft 311 and the second arm shaft 321. The first arm 310 may include a first cam structure 371 formed in a region surrounding a through-hole of the first arm, through which the first arm shaft 311 passes. The second arm 320 may include a second cam structure 372 formed in a region surrounding a through-hole of the second arm, through which the second arm shaft 321 passes. The cam member 380 may include a first cam portion 381 engaging with the first cam structure 371 and a second cam portion 382 engaging with the second cam structure 372. The first cam portion 381 and the first cam structure 371 may be configured to move the cam member 380 in a direction in which the elastic member 390 is compressed or in a direction in which the elastic member 390 is not compressed, in response to rotation of the first arm 310. The second cam portion 382 and the second cam structure 372 can be configured to move the cam member 380 in the direction in which the elastic member 390 is compressed or in the direction in which the elastic member 390 is not compressed, in response to the rotation of the second arm 320.

[0249] In various embodiments, in the section where the first arm 310 and the second arm 320 are set at an angle not less than a first angle and not greater than a second angle, the first cam structure 371 and the first cam portion 381 can maintain their protruding portions engaged with each other, the second cam structure 372 and the second cam portion 382 can maintain their protruding portions engaged with each other, and the elastic member 390 can maintain a predetermined compressed state.

[0250] It should be understood that the various embodiments of this disclosure and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features set forth herein to a particular embodiment, and include various variations, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments. Regarding the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It will be understood that the singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more things unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. 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 phrases. As used herein, terms such as “first” and “second” or “first” and “second” may be used simply to distinguish corresponding components from another component and do not limit the components in other respects (e.g., importance or order). It will be understood that if an element (e.g., the first element) is referred to as "connected to," "attached to," "connected to," or "linked to" another element (e.g., the second element) with or without the terms "operationally" or "communically," it means that the element can be connected to the other element directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or via a third element.

[0251] As used herein, depending on the context, "adapted to or configured to" can be used interchangeably with "suitable for," "capable of," "modified to," "made of," "capable of," or "designed to," for example, in terms of hardware or software. In some contexts, the expression "a device configured to" can mean that the device is "capable" of working with other devices or components. For example, the phrase "processors configured (or configured to perform) A, B, and C" refers to a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing the corresponding operations or a general-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or AP) capable of performing the corresponding operations by executing one or more programs stored in a memory device.

[0252] As used herein, the term "module" can include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with other terms such as "logic," "logic block," "part," or "circuit." A "module" can be implemented mechanically or electronically, and may include, for example, known or to be developed application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chips, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or programmable logic devices.

[0253] At least a portion of an apparatus (e.g., its modules or functions) or method (e.g., operation) according to various embodiments can be implemented as instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., memory) as program modules. When the instructions are executed by a processor (e.g., a processor), the processor can perform the function corresponding to the instructions. Computer-readable recording media include hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic media (e.g., magnetic tape), optical recording media (e.g., CD-ROMs, DVDs, magneto-optical media (e.g., floppy disks), internal memory, etc.). The instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter.

[0254] According to various embodiments, each of the above components (e.g., a module or 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 this 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 component performed one or more functions before integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more operations may be run in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0255] An electronic device according to an embodiment of this disclosure may include a hinge structure that provides a torque greater than or equal to the restoring force of the display. Therefore, the folding motion of the foldable electronic device or the folded state desired by the user can be stably maintained.

[0256] Furthermore, the hinge structure according to the embodiments of this disclosure can provide torque sufficient to counteract the restoring force of the display without increasing the thickness of the electronic device.

[0257] Furthermore, this disclosure can provide various effects that can be recognized directly or indirectly.

Claims

1. A hinge structure, comprising: A fixed structure includes a first guide rail and a second guide rail, both of which have arc shapes. The center of the arc of the first guide rail is a first rotation axis parallel to the axial direction, and the center of the arc of the second guide rail is a second rotation axis parallel to the axial direction. A first rotating structure includes a first guide portion and a first helical groove, the first guide portion being received in a first guide rail, the first helical groove extending to have a predetermined torsion angle relative to the axial direction, and the first rotating structure being configured to rotate about a first rotation axis. The second rotating structure includes a second guide portion and a second helical groove, the second guide portion being accommodated in the second guide rail, the second helical groove extending to have a predetermined torsion angle relative to the axial direction, and the second rotating structure being configured to rotate about the second rotation axis. as well as A sliding structure includes a first guide protrusion and a second guide protrusion, the first guide protrusion being received in a first helical groove and the second guide protrusion being received in a second helical groove, the sliding structure being configured to slide relative to the fixed structure in the axial direction in response to rotation of the first rotating structure and the second rotating structure.

2. The hinge structure according to claim 1, The first rotating structure further includes a first connecting portion, which has a substantially cylindrical shape and includes a first arcuate surface, wherein the first axis of rotation is the center of the first arcuate surface. The first guide portion includes a protruding portion that protrudes in the direction of the first rotation axis and is accommodated in the first guide rail. The first spiral groove is formed on the first arc-shaped surface. The second rotating structure further includes a second connecting portion, which has a substantially cylindrical shape and includes a second arcuate surface, wherein the second axis of rotation is the center of the second arcuate surface. The second guide portion includes a protruding portion that protrudes in the direction of the second rotation axis and is accommodated in the second guide rail, and The second spiral groove is formed on the second arc-shaped surface.

3. The hinge structure according to claim 1, The fixing structure further includes a sliding shaft extending in the axial direction, and The sliding structure is slidably connected to the sliding shaft.

4. The hinge structure according to claim 1, The first helical groove extends at a first angle relative to the first rotation axis in a first rotational direction and extends a first length D in the direction of the first rotation axis. The second spiral groove extends in the second rotation direction at a second angle substantially equal to the first angle, and in the direction of the second rotation axis at a second length substantially equal to the first length D, with the second rotation direction being opposite to the first rotation direction.

5. The hinge structure according to claim 4, wherein the sliding structure is further configured to slide the first length in the axial direction.

6. The hinge structure according to claim 4, The first helical groove extends in one direction and forms a first torsion angle relative to the direction of the first axis of rotation, and The second helical groove extends in one direction and forms a second torsion angle relative to the direction of the second rotation axis, the second torsion angle being equal to the first torsion angle.

7. The hinge structure according to claim 1, wherein, when viewed in the axial direction, the first guide protrusion and the second guide protrusion are located between the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis.

8. The hinge structure according to claim 1, The sliding structure further includes: The first region is configured to face the fixed structure. The second region is configured to face away from the first region, and A sliding groove is formed, passing through the first region and the second region. The fixing structure further includes a facing region and a fixing member, the facing region being configured to face the first region of the sliding structure, and the fixing member protruding from the facing region. The fixing member penetrates the sliding structure by passing through the sliding groove.

9. The hinge structure according to claim 8, The sliding groove extends a first length D in the axial direction, and When viewed in the axial direction, the first helical groove and the second helical groove extend the first length D at a predetermined angle θ.

10. The hinge structure according to claim 8, wherein the sliding structure is further configured as: Move to one side along the axial direction until the fixed member contacts the first end of the sliding groove, and Move to the opposite side along the axial direction until the fixed member contacts the second end of the sliding groove.

11. The hinge structure according to claim 8, The fixing member includes a head and a body, the head being disposed on the second region of the sliding structure, and the body extending from the head to the fixing structure and configured to pass through the sliding groove. The hinge structure further includes an elastic member disposed between the head and the second region, and The elastic member is configured to press the sliding structure toward the fixed structure.

12. The hinge structure according to claim 11, The sliding structure further includes a plurality of first protrusions formed on the first region around the sliding groove and protruding toward the fixed structure. The fixing structure further includes a plurality of second protrusions formed on the facing region and engaging with the plurality of first protrusions, and in, In response to the engagement of the first protrusion and the second protrusion and their surface-to-surface contact with each other, the elastic member is compressed.

13. The hinge structure according to claim 1, The fixing structure further includes a first extension shaft extending to one side along the axial direction and a second extension shaft extending to the opposite side along the axial direction. Each of the first and second extension shafts is configured to pass through a portion of the sliding structure, and The sliding structure further includes: A first shaft clamping member, through which the first extension shaft passes, the first shaft clamping member being at least partially press-fitted onto the first extension shaft, and A second shaft clamping member, through which the second extension shaft passes, is at least partially press-fitted onto the second extension shaft.

14. The hinge structure according to claim 13, The first shaft clamping member includes a plurality of first slits located in the radial direction relative to the first extension shaft. The plurality of first slits are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first shaft clamping member and extend along the axial direction. The second shaft clamping member includes a plurality of second slits located radially relative to the second extending shaft, and The plurality of second slits are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second shaft clamping member and extend along the axial direction.

15. The hinge structure according to claim 13, The first shaft clamping member and the second shaft clamping member have threads formed on their outer surfaces. The hinge structure further includes a nut fastened to the threads, and The nut is configured as follows: The device moves along the thread relative to the first and second shaft clamping members in the axial direction. Press-fit the first shaft clamping member onto the first extension shaft, and The second shaft clamping member is press-fitted onto the second extension shaft.

16. The hinge structure according to claim 1, further comprising: The first arm shaft extends from the fixed structure and is parallel to the first rotation axis; A first arm is configured to rotate about a first arm axis, and the first arm includes a first sliding pin parallel to the first arm axis; The second arm shaft extends from the fixed structure and is parallel to the second rotation axis; as well as The second arm is configured to rotate about a second arm axis, and the second arm includes a second sliding pin parallel to the second arm axis. The first arm is configured to slide relative to the first rotating structure when the first sliding pin is accommodated in the first sliding groove of the first rotating structure, and The second arm is configured to slide relative to the second rotating structure when the second sliding pin is accommodated in the second sliding groove of the second rotating structure.

17. The hinge structure according to claim 16, The first rotating structure further includes a first friction portion, which includes the first sliding groove and extends in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis. The second rotating structure further includes a second friction portion, which comprises the second sliding groove and extends in a direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis. The hinge structure further includes: A first friction plate, connected to the first sliding pin, and configured to make surface-to-surface contact with the first friction portion and rotate together with the first arm about the first arm axis, and The second friction plate is connected to the second sliding pin and configured to make surface-to-surface contact with the second friction portion and rotate together with the second arm about the axis of the second arm.

18. The hinge structure according to claim 17, Each of the first friction portion and the second friction portion includes: The first portion, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction, has a first length W1, and is configured to make surface-to-surface contact with each of the first and second friction plates. The two second portions extend from opposite sides of the first portion in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. Each second portion has a second length less than the first length, and the second portion is spaced apart from each of the first friction plate and the second friction plate.

19. The hinge structure according to claim 16, further comprising: A cam member is connected to the first arm shaft and the second arm shaft, the cam member being configured to move along the first arm shaft and the second arm shaft in the axial direction; as well as An elastic member is configured to apply a spring force to the cam member. The first arm includes a first cam structure formed in the region around a through hole in the first arm, and the first arm shaft passes through the through hole in the first arm. The second arm includes a second cam structure formed in the region surrounding the through hole of the second arm, and the shaft of the second arm passes through the through hole of the second arm. The cam component includes a first cam portion that engages with the first cam structure and a second cam portion that engages with the second cam structure. The first cam portion and the first cam structure are configured such that, based on the rotation of the first arm, the cam member moves in the direction in which the elastic member is compressed or in the direction in which the elastic member is not compressed. The second cam portion and the second cam structure are configured to move the cam member in the direction in which the elastic member is compressed or in the direction in which the elastic member is not compressed, based on the rotation of the second arm.

20. The hinge structure according to claim 19, wherein, In the section where the first arm and the second arm are set at an angle no less than a first angle and no greater than a second angle relative to each other, the first cam structure and the first cam portion maintain their protruding portions engaged with each other, the second cam structure and the second cam portion maintain their protruding portions engaged with each other, and the elastic member maintains a predetermined compressed state.

21. The hinge structure according to claim 8, wherein, In response to the hinge structure successfully reaching either the unfolded state or the fully folded state, a sound or vibration indicating that the hinge structure has successfully reached either the unfolded state or the fully folded state occurs. The fully folded state refers to a state in which the first rotating structure and the second rotating structure are rotated 90 degrees or more from the unfolded state. The sound or vibration is generated by the collision of a plurality of first protrusions formed on the first region of the sliding structure with a plurality of corresponding depressions.

22. The hinge structure according to claim 19, The hinge structure is configured to maintain a folded state based on the engagement of the first cam structure and the second cam structure with the cam member. Based on the engagement of the first cam structure and the second cam structure with the cam member, the hinge structure stably maintains a folded state at various angles of the hinge structure's folding.

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