Hinge assembly and foldable electronic device comprising the same

Abstract

A hinge assembly and a foldable electronic device including the same are disclosed. A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the disclosure includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge assembly, and a flexible display, wherein the hinge assembly includes a first shaft, a second shaft, a first arm coupled to the first shaft, a second arm coupled to the second shaft, a first cam member moving along the first shaft when the first arm rotates, and a second cam member moving along the second shaft when the second arm rotates.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to hinge assemblies and foldable electronic devices including such hinge assemblies, for example, to hinge assemblies including multiple (e.g., two) rotation axes. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic devices can refer to devices that perform specific functions according to programs installed on them, such as home appliances, electronic laptops, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, video / audio equipment, desktop / laptop computers, or vehicle navigation devices. For example, such electronic devices can output stored information as sound or images.

[0003] With the increasing integration density of electronic devices and the prevalence of ultra-high-speed and / or high-capacity wireless communications, it has recently become possible to equip a variety of functions in a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal. For example, not only communication functions are being integrated, but also entertainment functions (such as gaming), multimedia functions (such as music / video playback), communication and security functions (such as mobile banking), calendar management functions, or e-wallet functions are being integrated into a single electronic device. The size of such electronic devices is decreasing to facilitate user portability. Furthermore, to provide further improved usability, foldable or rollable electronic devices, including flexible (e.g., foldable or rollable) displays, are being commercialized.

[0004] The above information is provided as background information to aid in understanding this disclosure. No assertion or determination is made regarding whether any of the foregoing content is applicable to prior art related to this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical solution

[0006] A foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a first housing; a second housing; a hinge assembly configured to rotate the first housing and the second housing; and a flexible display disposed on the first housing and the second housing. The hinge assembly may include: a gear train including a first gear configured to rotate in a first rotational direction and a second gear configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction; a first shaft connected to the first gear; a second shaft connected to the second gear and extending along the first shaft; a first arm coupled to the first shaft to rotate with the first shaft and configured to rotate the first housing; a second arm coupled to the second shaft to rotate with the second shaft and configured to rotate the second housing; a first cam member contacting the first arm to move along the first shaft while the first arm rotates; and a second cam member contacting the second arm to move along the second shaft while the second arm rotates, the second cam member being interlocked with the first cam member, and the first cam member being movable relative to the second cam member along the first shaft.

[0007] A hinge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a gear train including a first gear configured to rotate in a first rotational direction and a second gear configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction; a first shaft connected to the first gear; a second shaft connected to the second gear and extending along the first shaft; a first arm coupled to the first shaft to rotate with the first shaft; a second arm coupled to the second shaft to rotate with the second shaft; a first cam member contacting the first arm to move along the first shaft while the first arm rotates; and a second cam member contacting the second arm to move along the second shaft while the second arm rotates, the second cam member being interlocked with the first cam member, and the first cam member being movable relative to the second cam member along the first shaft. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a view showing the unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A view of the folded state of a foldable electronic device.

[0010] Figure 3 The interior of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, illustrating a hinge plate and a hinge assembly.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the hinge assembly in its unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 5This is an exploded perspective view of a hinge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a hinge assembly in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 7 A gear train according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 8 The operation of the cam member of a hinge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a cam component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the cam components separated from each other.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a cam component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the cam components interlocked with each other.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a view used to describe the rotational forces acting on the first cam member and the second cam member by the first arm and the second arm being canceled out according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the first cam member and the second cam member in an interlocked state.

[0019] Figure 12 The operation of the cam member of the hinge assembly according to a comparative embodiment is shown.

[0020] Figure 13 This illustrates a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and according to... Figure 12 The graph shows the repulsive force generated by the foldable electronic device of the comparative embodiment during unfolding as a function of angle.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a gasket.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a cam component according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the cam components interlocked with each other.

[0023] Figure 16 It is along Figure 15 The cross-sectional view of the cam component taken by line B-B' is shown.

[0024] Figure 17 This is an exploded perspective view of a cam component according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the cam components separated from each other.

[0025] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of a cam component according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the cam components separated from each other.

[0026] Figure 19 This is an exploded perspective view of a cam component according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the cam components separated from each other. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings provides an understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, including the claims and their equivalents. The exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include various specific details to aid understanding, but these are considered to be one of many exemplary embodiments. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted.

[0028] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their literal meaning, but are intended to clearly and consistently describe one embodiment of this disclosure. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the following description of various embodiments of this disclosure is provided for descriptive purposes and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0029] It should be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural indicators unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “component surface” can be understood to include one or more surfaces of the component.

[0030] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document can be one of a variety of types of devices. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the foregoing devices.

[0031] The various embodiments and terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to the specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various changes, equivalents, or substitutions to the corresponding embodiments. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related parts in conjunction with the description of the accompanying drawings. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] In this document, 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 of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase or all possible combinations thereof.

[0033] Terms such as “first” or “second” can be used simply to distinguish one corresponding component from another, and do not limit the corresponding component in any other way (e.g., importance or order).

[0034] When one (e.g., the first) component is referred to as “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., the second) component, whether or not the terms “functionally” or “communically” are used, it means that one component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or via a third component.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a view showing the unfolded state of a foldable electronic device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A view of the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state.

[0036] In the following detailed description, examples may be given of a configuration in which a pair of housing structures (or “housings”) are rotatably coupled by a hinge assembly. However, it should be noted that such embodiments do not limit the electronic device according to various embodiments of this disclosure. For example, an electronic device according to various embodiments of this disclosure may include three or more housing structures, and the term “pair of housing structures” in the embodiments disclosed below may refer to “two housing structures among three or more housing structures that are rotatably coupled to each other.”

[0037] refer to Figure 1 The foldable electronic device 100 may include: a pair of housing structures (or housings) 110, 120, which are connected by a hinge assembly 200 (see Figure 3 The foldable electronic device 100 is rotatably coupled to fold relative to each other; a hinge cover 165 covers the foldable portions of the housing structures 110, 120; and a flexible display 130 (or foldable display) is disposed in the space formed by the housing structures 110, 120. In this document, the surface on which the display 130 is disposed can be defined as the front surface of the foldable electronic device 100, and the surface opposite the front surface can be defined as the rear surface of the foldable electronic device 100. Further, the surface surrounding the space between the front and rear surfaces can be defined as the side surface of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0038] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the pair of housing structures 110, 120 may include a first housing structure (or first housing) 110 including a sensor region 131d, a second housing structure (or second housing) 120, a first rear cover 140, and a second rear cover 150. The pair of housing structures 110, 120 of the foldable electronic device 100 are not limited to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The shapes and combinations shown can be implemented through combinations and / or couplings of other shapes or components. For example, in another embodiment, the first housing structure 110 and the first rear cover 140 can be integrally formed, and the second housing structure 120 and the second rear cover 150 can be integrally formed. In another embodiment, the first housing structure 110 may include the first rear cover 140, and the second housing structure 120 may include the second rear cover 150.

[0039] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may, for example, be disposed on opposite sides of the folding axis (A) and may have a shape that is completely symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (A). In some embodiments, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may be positioned relative to the hinge assembly 200 (see [link]). Figure 3 The hinge cover 165 can rotate about different folding axes. For example, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 can be rotatably coupled to the hinge assembly 200 (see [link]). Figure 3 ) or hinge cover 165, and can rotate between folded positions relative to each other and tilted positions relative to each other or unfolded positions relative to each other by rotating about folding axis (A) or about different folding axes respectively.

[0040] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device 100, the hinge cover 165 can be substantially concealed by the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device 100, the hinge cover 165 can be at least partially exposed to the external space between the first housing 110 and the second housing 120.

[0041] In this document, "positioned side by side" or "extended side by side" can refer to two structures (e.g., shell structures 110, 120) being positioned at least partially adjacent to each other, or at least partially positioned adjacent to each other and arranged parallel to each other. In some embodiments, "arranged side by side" can refer to two structures being positioned adjacent to each other and arranged facing a parallel or the same direction. In the following detailed description, expressions such as "side by side" and "parallel" may be used, but these can be readily understood with reference to the accompanying drawings based on the shape or arrangement of the structures.

[0042] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the angle or distance between the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may vary depending on whether the foldable electronic device 100 is in an extended state, a flat state, an unfolded state (or an open state), a folded state (or a closed state), or an intermediate state. In describing various embodiments of this disclosure, the state of the foldable electronic device 100 becoming "unfolded" may refer to a "fully unfolded state" where the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 of the electronic device form an angle of 180 degrees. The state of the foldable electronic device 100 becoming "closed" may refer to a state where the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 of the electronic device form an angle of 0 degrees or less than 10 degrees. The state of the foldable electronic device 100 becoming "intermediate" may refer to a state where the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 form an angle between the angle formed in the "unfolded state" and the angle formed in the "closed state."

[0043] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, unlike the second housing structure 120, the first housing structure 110 additionally includes a sensor region 131d in which various sensors are disposed, but may have a shape symmetrical to it in other regions. In another embodiment, the sensor region 131d may be additionally disposed in at least a portion of the second housing structure 120 or replaced by at least a portion of the second housing structure 120. In another embodiment, the sensor region 131d may be omitted from the first housing structure 110.

[0044] In one embodiment of this disclosure, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device 100, the first housing structure 110 may include: a first surface 111 connected to the hinge assembly 200 (see...). Figure 3 The first surface 111 is positioned facing the front surface of the foldable electronic device 100; the second surface 112 faces the direction opposite to the first surface 111; and the first side member 113 surrounds at least a portion of the space between the first surface 111 and the second surface 112.

[0045] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first side member 113 may include: a first side surface 113a, configured parallel to the folding axis (A); a second side surface 113b, extending from one end of the first side surface 113a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A); and a third side surface 113c, extending from the other end of the first side surface 113a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A). In describing various embodiments of the invention, expressions such as "parallel" or "perpendicular" are used regarding the arrangement of the aforementioned side surfaces; however, according to embodiments, these may include the meaning of "partially parallel" or "partially perpendicular." In some embodiments, expressions such as "parallel" or "perpendicular" may include an arrangement inclined within an angle range of 10 degrees.

[0046] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the second housing structure 120 is connected to the hinge assembly 200 (see [link]). Figure 3 It may include: a third surface 121, configured to face the front surface of the foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded state; a fourth surface 122, facing a direction opposite to the third surface 121; and a second side member 123, which surrounds at least a portion of the space between the third surface 121 and the fourth surface 122.

[0047] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the second side member 123 may include: a fourth side surface 123a, configured to be parallel to the folding axis (A); a fifth side surface 123b, extending from one end of the fourth side surface 123a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A); and a sixth side surface 123c, extending from the other end of the fourth side surface 123a in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A). In one embodiment, a third surface 121 may be configured to face the first surface 111 in the folded state. In some embodiments, although there may be some differences in specific shape, the second side member 123 may be manufactured in substantially the same shape or material as the first side member 113.

[0048] In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device 100 may include a recess 101 formed to accommodate a display 130 via structural shapes coupled to a first housing structure 110 and a second housing structure 120. The recess 101 may have substantially the same dimensions as the display 130. In one embodiment, due to the sensor region 131d, the recess 101 may have two or more different widths in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A). For example, the recess 101 may have a first width (W1) and a second width (W2), the first width (W1) being between a first portion 120a of the second housing structure 120 parallel to the folding axis (A) and a first portion 110a of the first housing structure 110 formed at the edge of the sensor region 131d, and the second width (W2) being formed by a second portion 120b of the second housing structure 120 and a second portion 110b of the first housing structure 110 that does not correspond to the sensor region 131d and is parallel to the folding axis (A). In this case, the second width W2 may be longer than the first width W1. For example, the recess 101 can be formed with a first width (W1) and a second width (W2), the first width (W1) being formed from a first portion 110a of the first housing structure 110 having a mutually asymmetrical shape to a first portion 120a of the second housing structure 120, and the second width (W2) being formed from a second portion 110b of the first housing structure 110 having a mutually symmetrical shape to a second portion 120b of the second housing structure 120. In one embodiment, the first portion 110a and the second portion 110b of the first housing structure 110 can be formed at different distances from the folding axis (A). The width of the recess 101 is not limited to the example shown. In various embodiments, depending on the shape of the sensor region 131d or the asymmetrical portions of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120, the recess 101 can have two or more different widths.

[0049] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may be formed of a metallic or non-metallic material having a stiffness size selected to support the display 130. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may include a conductive material. When the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 include a conductive material, the foldable electronic device 100 can use the portions of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 made of conductive material to transmit / receive radio waves. For example, the processor or communication module of the foldable electronic device 100 can use a portion of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 to perform wireless communication.

[0050] In one embodiment, sensor region 131d may be formed having a designated area adjacent to a corner of the first housing structure 110. However, the arrangement, shape, or size of sensor region 131d is not limited to the example shown. For example, in another embodiment, sensor region 131d may be located at another corner of the first housing structure 110 or in any area between the upper and lower corners. In another embodiment, sensor region 131d may be located in at least a portion of the second housing structure 120. In another embodiment, sensor region 131d may be configured to extend into both the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. In one embodiment, foldable electronic device 100 may include components exposed on the front surface of foldable electronic device 100 through sensor region 131d or through one or more openings provided in sensor region 131d, and various functions may be performed by such components. Components provided in sensor region 131d may include at least one of, for example, a front-facing camera device, a proximity sensor, an illumination sensor, an iris recognition sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an indicator. However, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to such embodiments. According to the embodiment, the sensor region 131d can be omitted. Therefore, the components disposed in the sensor region 131d can be distributed and disposed in at least a portion of the first housing structure 110 and / or the second housing structure 120.

[0051] In one embodiment, a first rear cover 140 may be disposed on a second surface 112 of a first housing structure 110 and may have a generally rectangular periphery. In one embodiment, the periphery of the first rear cover 140 may be at least partially surrounded by the first housing structure 110. Similarly, a second rear cover 150 may be disposed on a fourth surface 122 of a second housing structure 120, and at least a portion of its periphery may be surrounded by the second housing structure 120.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the first rear cover 140 and the second rear cover 150 may have a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (A). In another embodiment, the first rear cover 140 and the second rear cover 150 may include various different shapes. In yet another embodiment, the first rear cover 140 may be integrally formed with the first housing structure 110, and the second rear cover 150 may be integrally formed with the second housing structure 120.

[0053] In one embodiment, the first rear cover 140, the second rear cover 150, the first housing structure 110, and the second housing structure 120 may be coupled to each other to provide space in which various components of the foldable electronics 100 (e.g., printed circuit boards, antenna modules, sensor modules, or batteries) may be disposed. In one embodiment, one or more components may be disposed on or visually exposed on the rear surface of the foldable electronics 100. For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through a first rear region 141 of the first rear cover 140. In various embodiments, sensors may include proximity sensors, rear camera devices, and / or flash. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the sub-display 152 may be visually exposed through a second rear region 151 of the second rear cover 150.

[0054] The display 130 can be disposed in the space formed by the pair of housing structures 110, 120. For example, the display 130 can be disposed in the recess formed by the pair of housing structures 110, 120 (e.g., Figure 1 The recess 101 can be configured to occupy a substantial portion of the front surface of the foldable electronic device 100. For example, the front surface of the foldable electronic device 100 may include a display 130, a portion of the first housing structure 110 adjacent to the display 130 (e.g., an edge region), and a portion of the second housing structure 120 (e.g., an edge region). In one embodiment, the rear surface of the foldable electronic device 100 may include a first rear cover 140, a portion of the first housing structure 110 adjacent to the first rear cover 140 (e.g., an edge region), a second rear cover 150, and a portion of the second housing structure 120 adjacent to the second rear cover 150 (e.g., an edge region).

[0055] In one embodiment, display 130 may refer to a display in which at least a portion of its area can be deformed into a planar or curved surface. In one embodiment, display 130 may include a folded region 131c, a first region 131a disposed on one side relative to the folded region 131c (e.g., the right side region of the folded region 131c), and a second region 131b disposed on the other side (e.g., the left side region of the folded region 131c). For example, the first region 131a is disposed on a first surface 111 of the first housing structure 110, and the second region 131b may be disposed on a third surface 121 of the second housing structure 120. For example, display 130 can pass through the first surface 111. Figure 3 The hinge assembly 200 extends to the third surface 121 and is at least with the hinge assembly 200 (see [link]). Figure 3The corresponding area (e.g., folded area 131c) can be a flexible area that can be deformed from a flat shape to a curved shape.

[0056] In one embodiment, the area division of the display 130 is exemplary, and the display 130 can be divided into multiple (e.g., four or more or two) areas according to its structure or function. As an example, in Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the folded region 131c is on the longitudinal axis parallel to the folding axis (A) (e.g., Figure 3 The display 130 extends in the direction of the Y-axis, and the area of ​​the display 130 can be divided by the folding region 131c or the folding axis (A). However, in another embodiment, the area of ​​the display 130 can be divided based on another folding region or another folding axis. The above-mentioned area division of the display is only achieved by the pair of housing structures 110, 120 and hinge assembly 200 (see Figure 3 The physical division is based on the housing structures 110, 120 and the hinge assembly 200 (see...). Basically, the display 130 can be separated by the housing structures 110, 120 and the hinge assembly 200 (see...). Figure 3 (This is used to display the entire screen.)

[0057] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first region 131a and the second region 131b may have shapes that are completely symmetrical with respect to the folded region 131c. However, unlike the second region 131b, the first region 131a may include a notched region providing the sensor region 131d, and may have shapes in other regions that are symmetrical with respect to the second region 131b. For example, the first region 131a and the second region 131b may include portions having shapes that are symmetrical to each other and portions having shapes that are asymmetrical to each other.

[0058] Figure 3 The interior of a foldable electronic device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which illustrates hinge plates 171, 172 and hinge assembly 200.

[0059] refer to Figure 3 A foldable electronic device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing 110, a second housing 120, a first support member 114, a second support member 124, and a display (e.g., Figure 1 and / or Figure 3 The display 130) and / or hinge assembly 200 and / or hinge cover 165 (see Figure 2 Here, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first hinge plate 171 and a second hinge plate 172. According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may be disposed on or mounted on a hinge cover 165 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be connected inside the hinge cover 165 (e.g., the inner surface of the hinge cover 165). According to one embodiment, the first hinge plate 171 and the second hinge plate 172 can also be disposed or mounted on the hinge cover 165 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 The interior (e.g., the inner surface of the hinge cover 165) can be connected to the first support member 114 of the first housing 110 and the second support member 124 of the second housing 120, respectively.

[0060] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, at least a portion of each of the first hinge plate 171 and the second hinge plate 172 can be fixedly coupled to the first support member 114 and the second support member 124 respectively by at least one fixing member (F). In one embodiment, the hinge assembly 200 can provide Figure 1 The folding electronic device 100 has a folding axis (A), and depending on the embodiment, a rotation axis (Ax1) serving as the rotation center of the first housing 210 and a rotation axis (Ax2) serving as the rotation center of the second housing 120 may be provided. The first rotation axis (Ax1) and the second rotation axis (Ax2) may be formed or disposed at positions spaced apart from each other by a specified distance. The direction in which the first rotation axis (Ax1) and / or the second rotation axis (Ax2) extend may be defined as the longitudinal direction of the folding electronic device 100 (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0061] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, hinge assembly 200, first hinge plate 171, second hinge plate 172 and / or hinge cover 165 (see [link]). Figure 2 ) can be basically positioned to correspond to the flexible display 130 (see Figure 1 The folded area (e.g.) Figure 1 The folding area 131c). The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are coupled to the hinge assembly 200 and are rotatable relative to the hinge assembly 200. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be in a position facing each other (e.g., Figure 2 The folded state) and the position unfolded relative to each other at a specified angle (e.g., Figure 1The first housing 110 rotates about a first rotation axis (Ax1), and the second housing 120 can rotate about a second rotation axis (Ax2). The "position where it is unfolded at a specified angle" can include a position where the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are unfolded at an angle of 180 degrees relative to each other, and when either the first housing 110 or the second housing 120 rotates, the hinge assembly 200 can rotate the other of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. For example, when the first housing 110 rotates in a direction away from the second housing 120, the hinge assembly 200 can rotate the second housing 120 in a direction away from the first housing 110. In some embodiments, when the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 rotate between a position facing each other and a position forming an angle of 180 degrees relative to each other, the first housing 110 can rotate relative to the hinge assembly 200 within an angular range of 90 degrees, and the second housing 120 can also rotate within an angular range of 90 degrees.

[0062] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a first hinge plate 171 and a second hinge plate 172 may be coupled to a hinge assembly 200, respectively. The hinge plates 171 and 172 are configured as generally flat portions, and according to one embodiment, at least a portion of them may be formed into a curved shape with a specified curvature. According to various embodiments, the first hinge plate 171 and the second hinge plate 172 may have substantially the same structure.

[0063] Descriptions of sub-components of two substantially identical components can be provided without distinguishing between "first" and "second". When describing sub-components of two substantially identical components below, for example, the description of a sub-component included in the "first component" can be applied equivalently to the description of a sub-component included in the "second component". Therefore, the description of a sub-component included in the "second component" can be omitted to the extent that it overlaps with the description of a sub-component included in the "first component", and the description of a sub-component included in the "first component" can be modified as necessary and applied to the description of a sub-component included in the "second component" to the extent that they do not conflict with each other.

[0064] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, various components provided for folding a foldable electronic device may each be provided as a pair, and relative to the folding axis (e.g., Figure 1 The folding axis (A) is arranged symmetrically on the left and right. For example, the first hinge plate 171 and the second hinge plate 172 can be of substantially identical construction and can be arranged relative to the folding axis (e.g., Figure 1 The folding axis (A) is provided symmetrically on the left and right. Therefore, the description of the first hinge plate 171 can be modified as necessary and applied relative to the folding axis (e.g., Figure 1A second hinge plate 172 symmetrical to the folding axis (A). For example, relative to the folding axis (A), Figure 1 The description of the component whose folding axis (A) is symmetrically arranged on the left and right can be applied substantially equivalently to the description of the component included in the hinge assembly 240.

[0065] The hinge assembly 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a first rotating member 251, a second rotating member 252, a first arm 271, and a second arm 272. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first rotating member 251 and the second rotating member 252 may have a generally flat shape. The first rotating member 251 and the second rotating member 252 may be fixedly coupled to a first housing 110 and a second housing 120, respectively, and may support the first arm 271 and the second arm 272 on one side. For example, the first arm 271 and the second arm 272 may be connected to one end of the first rotating member 251 and the second rotating member 252.

[0066] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, it may include a first arm 271 and a second arm 272. The first arm 271 may be connected to a first shaft 211 (see...). Figure 4 Together, they rotate about the first axis of rotation (Ax1). The second arm 272 can rotate with the second axis 212 (see...). Figure 4 They rotate together around the second axis of rotation (Ax2).

[0067] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include an elastomer 280. The elastomer 280 may provide pressure or elasticity to the first arm 271 and the second arm 272. Reference will be made below. Figures 4 to 6 Detailed description of elastomer 280, arms 271, 272 and cam components 221, 222, 231, 232 (see [reference]). Figure 4 ).

[0068] Figure 4 This is a plan view of the hinge assembly 200 in its unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of a hinge assembly 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the hinge assembly 200 in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] refer to Figures 4 to 6 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a gear train 260, which includes a first gear 261 and a second gear 262. The gear train 260 may include a plurality of gears (e.g., four) (e.g., spur gears). The operation (e.g., rotation) of the plurality of gears included in the gear train 260 may be interlocked with each other.

[0070] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the gear train 260 may include various types of gears. As an example, Figures 5 to 8 The diagram illustrates a gear train 260 comprising multiple spur gears. However, the gears included in the gear train 260 are not limited to spur gears, and may certainly include various types of gears (e.g., helical gears and / or bevel gears) that can be interlocked with each other.

[0071] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the gear train 260 may include a first gear 261 configured to rotate in a first rotational direction and a second gear 262 configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction. For example, the gear train 260 may include an even number (e.g., four) of gears arranged approximately in a line, and the first gear 261 and the second gear 262 may be two gears located at opposite ends of a plurality of gears.

[0072] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a gear carrier 265. A gear train 260 may be disposed on the gear carrier 265. The gear carrier 265 may partially surround the gear train 260. The gear carrier 265 may be located between the gear train 260 and the arms 271, 272.

[0073] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first shaft 211 connected to a first gear 261. The first shaft 211 is rotatable together with the first gear 261 about an axis of rotation of the first gear 261. The hinge assembly 200 may include a second shaft 212 connected to a second gear 262. The second shaft 212 is rotatable together with the second gear 262 about an axis of rotation of the second gear 262. The first shaft 211 may provide a first axis of rotation (Ax1). The second shaft 212 may provide a second axis of rotation (Ax2). The second shaft 212 may extend along the first shaft 211.

[0074] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a first shaft 211 is coupled to a first arm 271 and can rotate together with the first arm 271. A second shaft 212 is coupled to a second arm 272 and can rotate together with the second arm 272. The cross-sections of the first shaft 211 and the second shaft 212 are formed into non-circular shapes and can rotate together with the first arm 271 and the second arm 272. For example, the first shaft 211 and the first arm 271, as well as the second shaft 212 and the second arm 272, can be coupled to each other via a spline structure.

[0075] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first arm 271 coupled to a first shaft 211. The first arm 271 may include a first coupling portion 271a and a second coupling portion 271b coupled to the first shaft 211. The first coupling portion 271a and the second coupling portion 271b of the first arm 271 may be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first shaft 211. As an example, the first coupling portion 271a and the second coupling portion 271b of the first arm 271 may be coupled to the first shaft 211 via the spline structure described above.

[0076] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a second arm 272 coupled to a second shaft 212. The second arm 272 may include a first coupling portion 272a and a second coupling portion 272b coupled to the second shaft 212. The first coupling portion 272a and the second coupling portion 272b of the second arm 272 may be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the second shaft 212. As an example, the first coupling portion 272a and the second coupling portion 272b of the second arm 272 may be coupled to the second shaft 212 via the spline structure described above.

[0077] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first arm 271 may include a third coupling portion 271c coupled to the first rotating member 251. The third coupling portion 271c of the first arm 271 may be spaced apart from the first coupling portion 271a and / or the second coupling portion 271b in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first shaft 211 (e.g., the X-axis direction). The third coupling portion 271c of the first arm 271 may be fastened to the first groove 251a of the first rotating member 251 by a fastening member 291.

[0078] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the second arm 272 may include a third coupling portion 272c coupled to the second rotating member 252. The third coupling portion 272c of the second arm 272 may be spaced apart from the second coupling portions 272a and / or 272b in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the second shaft 212 (e.g., the X-axis direction). The third coupling portion 272c of the second arm 272 may be fastened to the second groove 252a of the second rotating member 252 by a fastening member 292.

[0079] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first rotating member 251 coupled to the first housing 110 (see [link]). Figure 3 The first rotating member 251 can be coupled to the first arm 271 via the fastening member 291. When the first arm 271 rotates about the first axis 211, the rotational force is transmitted to the first rotating member 251 via the fastening member 291, and the first rotating member 251 can rotate.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a second rotating member 252 coupled to the second housing 120 (see [link]). Figure 3 The second rotating member 252 can be coupled to the second arm 272 via the fastening member 292. When the second arm 272 rotates about the second axis 212, the rotational force is transmitted to the second rotating member 252 via the fastening member 292, and the second rotating member 252 can rotate.

[0081] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a rotating member support 253. A first rotating member 251 and a second rotating member 252 may be rotatably coupled to the rotating member support 253. The rotating member support 253 may be provided by a hinge cover 165 (see...). Figure 2 )support.

[0082] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first cam member 221 and a second cam member 222 interlocked with each other. The first cam member 221 may be disposed on a first shaft 211. The second cam member 222 may be disposed on a second shaft 212. The first shaft 211 may pass through the first cam member 221, such that the first cam member 221 is not restrained by rotation of the first shaft 211. The second shaft 212 may pass through the second cam member 222, such that the second cam member 222 is not restrained by rotation of the second shaft 212.

[0083] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first shaft 211 and the first cam member 221 may be interlocked with the second cam member 222 to inhibit rotation of the second cam member 222 about the second shaft 212. Similarly, the second cam member 222 may be interlocked with the first cam member 221 to inhibit rotation of the first cam member 221 about the first shaft 211.

[0084] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a third cam member 231 and a fourth cam member 232 interlocked with each other. The third cam member 231 may be located between the second coupling portion 271b of the first arm 271 and the second shaft support 242. The fourth cam member 232 may be located between the second coupling portion 272b of the second arm 272 and the second shaft support 242. A first shaft 211 may pass through the third cam member 231. A second shaft 212 may pass through the fourth cam member 232.

[0085] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the shape of the third cam member 231 may have a shape relative to a specified axis (e.g., Figure 1 The folding axis (A) has a shape symmetrical to the second cam member 222. The shape of the fourth cam member 232 may have a shape relative to a specified axis (e.g., Figure 1The folding axis (A) has a shape symmetrical to the first cam member 221. The description of the first cam member 221 described below can be applied substantially equivalently to the fourth cam member 232 to a degree that does not conflict with each other. The description of the second cam member 222 described below can be applied substantially equivalently to the third cam member 231 to a degree that does not conflict with each other.

[0086] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first cam member 221 can contact the area of ​​the first arm 271 (e.g., Figure 8 The first drive cam portion 273). When the first arm 271 rotates, the first cam member 221, which is in contact with the first arm 271, can move along the first axis 211 through the first arm 271. The second cam member 222 can contact the area of ​​the second arm 272 (e.g., the area of ​​the second arm 272). Figure 8 The second drive cam portion 275). When the second arm 272 rotates, the second cam member 222, which is in contact with the second arm 272, can move along the second axis 212 through the second arm 272.

[0087] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a plurality of elastomers 281, 282 (e.g., Figure 3 (elastomer 280). Among the plurality of elastomers 281 and 282, the elastomer disposed on the first shaft 211 may be named the first elastomer 281, and the elastomer disposed on the second shaft 212 may be named the second elastomer 282. As an example, the first elastomer 281 may be a spring through which the first shaft 211 passes, and the second elastomer 282 may be a spring through which the second shaft 212 passes.

[0088] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first elastic body 281 can provide a spring force to the first cam member 221 and / or the third cam member 231, pointing towards the first coupling portion 271a and the second coupling portion 271b of the first arm 271. Therefore, the contact between the first cam member 221 and the first coupling portion 271a of the first arm 271 can be maintained by the first elastic body 281. Furthermore, the contact between the third cam member 231 and the second coupling portion 271b of the first arm 271 can be maintained by the first elastic body 281.

[0089] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the second elastic body 282 can provide a spring force to the second cam member 222 and / or the fourth cam member 232, pointing towards the first coupling portion 272a and the second coupling portion 272b of the second arm 272. Therefore, the contact between the second cam member 222 and the first coupling portion 272a of the second arm 272 can be maintained by the second elastic body 282. Furthermore, the contact between the third cam member 232 and the second coupling portion 272b of the second arm 272 can be maintained by the second elastic body 282.

[0090] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first shaft support 241. The first shaft support 241 may be secured to the hinge cover 165 by a fastening member (see [link]). Figure 2 The first shaft 211 can be supported by the first shaft bracket 241 by passing through one side of the first shaft bracket 241. The second shaft 212 can be supported by the first shaft bracket 241 by passing through the other side of the first shaft bracket 241. The first shaft bracket 241 can support the first elastic member 281 and the second elastic member 282. One side of the first shaft bracket 241 can be located between the first coupling portion 271a and the second coupling portion 271b of the first arm 271, and the other side of the first shaft bracket 241 can be located between the first coupling portion 272a and the second coupling portion 272b of the second arm 272.

[0091] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a second shaft support 242. The second shaft support 242 may be secured to the hinge cover 165 by a fastening member (see [link]). Figure 2 The first shaft 211 can be supported by the second shaft bracket 242 through one side. The second shaft 212 can be supported by the second shaft bracket 242 through the other side. The second shaft bracket 242 can support the first elastic member 281 and the second elastic member 282. One side of the second shaft bracket 242 can be positioned adjacent to the end of the first shaft 211, and the other side of the second shaft bracket 242 can be positioned adjacent to the end of the second shaft 212.

[0092] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first stop 211a coupled to an end of a first shaft 211. The hinge assembly 200 may include a second stop 212a coupled to an end of a second shaft 212. The first stop 211a and the second stop 212a can prevent components disposed on the first shaft 211 and / or the second shaft 212 (e.g., arms 271, 272, cam members 221, 222, 231, 232, elastomers 281, 282, shaft supports 241, 242) from separating from the first shaft 211 and / or the second shaft 212.

[0093] Figure 7 A gear train 260 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 8 The operation of the cam members 221, 222 of the hinge assembly 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0094] refer to Figure 7According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a gear train 260 may include a plurality of gears 261, 262, 263, and 264 interlocked with each other. The plurality of gears 261, 262, 263, and 264 may include a first gear 261 and a second gear 262 configured to rotate in opposite directions to each other. As an example, the gears 261, 262, 263, and 264 included in the gear train 260 may include a first gear 261, a second gear 262, a third gear 263, and a fourth gear 264.

[0095] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, backlash (B) for minimizing potential damage to the gear teeth during gear operation can be formed between two adjacent gears (e.g., first gear 261 and third gear 263) among a plurality of gears 261, 262, 263, and 264. Backlash (B) can be formed between first gear 261 and third gear 263, between third gear 263 and fourth gear 264, and between fourth gear 264 and second gear 262. As an example, backlash (B) can be approximately 4 degrees.

[0096] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, when the rotational force of the first gear 261 is sequentially transmitted to the second gear 262 through the third gear 263 and the fourth gear 264, the rotation angle (R2) of the second gear 262 may be different from the rotation angle (R1) of the first gear 261 due to the accumulation of backlash (B) between the multiple gears 261, 262, 263, and 264. As an example, it may become smaller.

[0097] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the rotation angle (R1) of the first gear 261 may be substantially the same as the rotation angle of the first shaft 211, and the rotation angle (R2) of the second gear 262 may be substantially the same as the rotation angle of the second shaft 212. Therefore, due to the accumulation of backlash (B), the rotation angles of the first shaft 261 and the second shaft 262 may become different from each other, and consequently, the rotation angles of the first arm 271 and the second arm 272 may become different from each other. Because of this, vibration or noise may occur during the folding and unfolding of the hinge assembly 200 due to friction or collision between the components.

[0098] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first cam member 221 is movable relative to the second cam member 222 along a first axis 211. Similarly, the second cam member 222 is movable relative to the first cam member 221 along a second axis 212. Therefore, the following can be reduced: Figure 7 As described, friction or collision between components of the hinge assembly 200 due to the difference in rotation angle between the first arm 271 and the second arm 272.

[0099] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first arm 271 may include a first drive cam portion 273. The first drive cam portion 273 may be interlocked with a first driven cam portion 221a of the first cam member 221. The first drive cam portion 273 may include a plurality of protrusions 274 projecting in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first shaft 211. The plurality of protrusions 274 of the first drive cam portion 273 may be arranged around the first shaft 211 to surround the first shaft 211.

[0100] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a first driven cam portion 221a, which faces and contacts the first drive cam portion 273 of the first arm 271. The first driven cam portion 221a may include a plurality of protrusions 221d, 221e, 221f projecting in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first shaft 211 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 9 ).

[0101] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first arm 271 rotates together with the first shaft 211, the first cam member 221 can move along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first shaft 211 by interlocking the plurality of protrusions 274 of the first drive cam portion 273 of the first arm 271 with the first driven cam portion 221a of the first cam member 221.

[0102] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the second arm 272 may include a second drive cam portion 275. The second drive cam portion 275 may be interlocked with a second driven cam portion 222a of the second cam member 222. The second drive cam portion 275 may include a plurality of protrusions 276 projecting in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the second shaft 212. The plurality of protrusions 276 of the second drive cam portion 275 may be arranged around the second shaft 212 to surround the second shaft 212.

[0103] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the second cam member 222 may include a second driven cam portion 222a, which faces and contacts the second drive cam portion 275 of the second arm 272. The second driven cam portion 222a may include a plurality of protrusions 222d, 222e, 222f projecting in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the second shaft 212 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 9 ).

[0104] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the second arm 272 rotates together with the second shaft 212, the second cam member 222 can move along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the second shaft 212 by means of the interlocking of the plurality of protrusions 276 of the second drive cam portion 275 of the second arm 272 with the second driven cam portion 222a of the second cam member 222.

[0105] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, due to the difference between the rotation angle (R1) of the first gear 261 and the rotation angle (R2) of the second gear 262, a difference (g) may occur between the distance the first cam member 221 moves along the first shaft 211 and the distance the second cam member 222 moves along the second shaft 212. Furthermore, the maximum distance (l1) between the first drive cam portion 273 and the first driven cam portion 221a can be greater than the maximum distance (l2) between the second drive cam portion 275 and the second driven cam portion 222a.

[0106] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, since the first cam member 221 and the second cam member 222 are configured to be relatively movable relative to each other, contact between the first drive cam portion 273 and the first driven cam portion 221a can be maintained, and contact between the second drive cam portion 275 and the second driven cam portion 222a can be maintained. Therefore, vibration or noise of the hinge assembly 200 caused by the difference between the rotation angle (R1) of the first gear 261 and the rotation angle (R2) of the second gear 262 can be reduced.

[0107] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a first connecting portion 221b extending from a first driven cam portion 221a toward a second cam member 222. The first connecting portion 221b may be located between the first elastic body 281 and the first driven cam portion 221a. As an example, the first connecting portion 221b may extend along a direction from the first axis 211 toward the second axis 212 (e.g., the X-axis direction).

[0108] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the second cam member 222 may include a second connecting portion 222b extending from the second driven cam portion 222a toward the first cam member 221. The second connecting portion 222b may be located between the second elastic body 282 and the second driven cam portion 222a. As an example, the second connecting portion 222b may extend along a direction from the second axis 212 toward the first axis 211 (e.g., the X-axis direction).

[0109] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a first locking portion 221c that is interlocked with a second locking portion 222c of the second cam member 222. The first locking portion 221c may be connected to a first connecting portion 221b of the first cam member 221. The second cam member 222 may include a second locking portion 222c that is interlocked with the first locking portion 221c of the first cam member 221. The second locking portion 222c may be connected to a second connecting portion 222b of the second cam member 222.

[0110] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a first shaft 211 may pass through a first driven cam portion 221a and a first connecting portion 221b. A second shaft 212 may pass through a second driven cam portion 222a and a second connecting portion 222b. A first locking portion 221c and a second locking portion 222c may be located between the first shaft 211 and the second shaft 212. Reference will now be made to... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The interlocking structure between the first locking portion 221c of the first cam member 221 and the second locking portion 222c of the second cam member 222 is described in detail.

[0111] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the width (T2) of the first locking portion 221c defined in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first axis 211 may be greater than the width (T1) of the first connecting portion 221b. The width (T4) of the second locking portion 222c defined in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the second axis 212 may be greater than the width (T3) of the second connecting portion 222b.

[0112] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of cam members 221, 222 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing cam members 221, 222 in a state where they are separated from each other. Figure 10 This is a perspective view of cam members 221, 222 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the interlocked state of cam members 221, 222.

[0113] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first cam member 221 may include a protrusion 221c. A second cam member 222 may include a recess 222c configured to receive the protrusion 221c. The recess 222c may interlock with the protrusion 221c. When the protrusion 221c is inserted into the recess 222c, rotation of the first cam member 221 about a first axis 211 and rotation of the second cam member 222 about a second axis 212 may be constrained.

[0114] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, a first cam member 221 may include a first hole 221h through which a first shaft 211 passes. A plurality of protrusions 221d, 221e, and 221f of the first cam member 221 may be arranged around the first hole 221h. A second cam member 222 may include a second hole 222h through which a second shaft 212 passes. A plurality of protrusions 222d, 222e, and 222f of the second cam member 222 may be arranged around the second hole 222h.

[0115] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion 221c can correspond to reference . Figure 8 The first locking portion 221c is described, and can be understood as an example of the first locking portion 221c. The recessed portion 222c can correspond to the reference. Figure 8 The second locking portion 222c is described, and can be understood as an example of the second locking portion 222c.

[0116] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the recessed portion 222c may be recessed in a direction from the first axis 211 toward the second axis 212 (e.g., the X-axis direction). The recessed portion 222c may include a groove 222g extending along the second axis 212. The groove 222g may have an outwardly opening longitudinal end 222o (e.g., in the Y-axis direction). As an example, the groove 222g may open at both longitudinal ends (e.g., in the Y-axis direction).

[0117] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the protrusion 221c may project in a direction from the first axis 211 toward the second axis 212. The protrusion 221c may include a rib 221r ​​extending along the first axis 211. The rib 221r ​​may be configured to insert into a recess 222g.

[0118] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the length (GL) of the groove 222g extending along the second axis 212 may be greater than the height (H1) of the plurality of protrusions 221d, 221e, 221f of the first driven cam portion 221a protruding from the first connecting portion 221b along the first axis 211. As an example, the length (GL) of the groove 222g may be three times or more the height (H1) of the plurality of protrusions 221d, 221e, 221f of the first driven cam portion 221a.

[0119] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the length (GL) of the groove 222g extending along the second axis 212 may be greater than the height (H2) of the plurality of protrusions 222d, 222e, 222f of the second driven cam portion 222a protruding from the second connecting portion 222b along the second axis 212. As an example, the length (GL) of the groove 222g may be three times or more the height (H2) of the plurality of protrusions 222d, 222e, 222f of the second driven cam portion 222a.

[0120] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the end 221p of the rib 221r ​​of the protruding portion 221c may be spaced apart from the groove 222g of the recessed portion 222c by a first distance (G1). The lateral surface 221k of the rib 221r ​​of the protruding portion 221c may be spaced apart from the groove 222g of the recessed portion 222c by a second distance (G2) (or a third distance (G3)). The first distance (G1) may be greater than the second distance (G2) and the third distance (G3). As an example, the second distance (G2) and the third distance (G3) may be from 0.02 mm to 0.05 mm, and the first distance (G1) may be greater than 0.05 mm.

[0121] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the edge 221s of the end 221p of the rib 221r ​​of the protruding portion 221c and / or the edge 222s of the groove 222g of the recessed portion 222c may have a chamfered shape or a rounded shape. Therefore, the protruding portion 221c can be smoothly inserted into the recessed portion 222c.

[0122] Figure 11 This is a view used to describe the rotational forces acting on the first cam member 221 and the second cam member 222 by the first arm 271 and the second arm 272 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure being canceled out, showing the first cam member 221 and the second cam member 222 in an interlocked state. Figure 11 The point of application and direction of the rotational force shown are exemplary and can be varied depending on the design of the cam components 221 and 222. Furthermore, the scope of this invention is not limited to these parameters. Figure 11 The example shown.

[0123] refer to Figure 11 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first driven cam portion 221a of the first cam member 221 (see...) Figure 8 The second cam member 222 may include multiple protrusions 221d, 221e, and 221f. The second driven cam portion 222a of the second cam member 222 (see...) Figure 8 The first arm 271 may include multiple protrusions 222d, 222e, and 222f. When the first arm 271 rotates together with the first shaft 211, the first arm 271 (e.g., Figure 8The multiple protrusions 274 of the first drive cam portion 273 can apply rotational force to the multiple protrusions 221d, 221e, 221f. Furthermore, when the second arm 272 rotates together with the second shaft 212, the second arm 272 (e.g., Figure 8 The multiple protrusions 276 of the second drive cam portion 275 can apply rotational force to the multiple protrusions 222d, 222e, 222f.

[0124] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the rotational force may include a force capable of causing the first cam member 221 or the second cam member 222 to rotate. As an example, the force exerted by the first arm 271 on the first cam member 221 in the direction of the rotation axis (e.g., the Y-axis direction) during rotation is not included in the rotational force, while the force acting in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the rotation axis (e.g., the X-axis direction or the Z-axis direction) may be included in the rotational force.

[0125] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first driven cam portion 221a (see...) Figure 8 The multiple protrusions of the first cam member 221 may include protrusion 221d (1-1), protrusion 221e (1-2), and protrusion 221f (1-3). When the first arm 271 rotates, the rotational force transmitted to the first cam member 221 may include a force (F11) acting on protrusion 221d (1-1), a force (F12) acting on protrusion 221e (1-2), and a force (F13) acting on protrusion 221f (1-3).

[0126] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the second driven cam portion 222a (see...) Figure 8 The multiple protrusions of the second cam member 222 may include protrusion 222d (2-1), protrusion 222e (2-2), and protrusion 222f (2-3). When the second arm 272 rotates, the rotational force transmitted to the second cam member 222 may include a 2-1 force (F21) acting on protrusion 222d (2-1), a 2-2 force (F22) acting on protrusion 222e (2-2), and a 2-3 force (F23) acting on protrusion 222f (2-3).

[0127] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first locking portion 221c of the first cam member 221 and the second locking portion 222c of the second cam member 222 are interlocked with each other, the rotational force transmitted from the first arm 271 to the first cam member 221 and the rotational force transmitted from the second arm 272 to the second cam member 222 can cancel each other out.

[0128] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the rotational force can be decomposed into a force parallel to a first direction (e.g., Figure 10 The first component of the force (in the X-axis direction) and parallel to the first direction (e.g., Figure 10The second direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction (e.g., Figure 10 The second component of the force (in the Z-axis direction). In the following description, the first component of the force may refer to the force parallel to the first direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction). Figure 10 The force is in the direction of the X-axis, and the second component force can be in the direction parallel to the second direction (e.g., the X-axis direction), and the second component force can be in the direction parallel to the second direction (e.g., the X-axis direction). Figure 10 The force in the direction of the Z-axis.

[0129] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, force 1-1 (F11) can be decomposed into a first component force (F111) and a second component force (F112). Force 1-3 (F13) can be decomposed into a first component force (F131) and a second component force (F132). Force 1-2 (F12) can be understood as a force acting parallel to a second direction. Force 2-1 (F21) can be decomposed into a first component force (F211) and a second component force (F212). Force 2-3 (F23) can be decomposed into a first component force (F231) and a second component force (F232). Force 2-2 (F22) can be understood as a force acting parallel to a second direction.

[0130] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, when the first locking portion 221c of the first cam member 221 and the second locking portion 222c of the second cam member 222 are interlocked, the first component force (F111) of force 1-1 (F11) and the first component force (F211) of force 2-1 (F21) can cancel each other out. Furthermore, the first component force (F111) of force 1-1 (F11) and the first component force (F211) of force 2-1 (F21) can cancel each other out. Furthermore, the first component force (F131) of force 1-3 (F13) and the first component force (F231) of force 2-3 (F23) can cancel each other out. The sum of the second component force (F112) of force 1-1 (F11), the second component force (F12) of force 1-2, and the second component force (F132) of force 1-3 (F13) can be 0. Furthermore, the sum of the second component force (F212) of force 2-1 (F21), the second component force (F22) of force 2-2 (F22), and the second component force (F232) of force 2-3 (F23) can be 0. Therefore, the rotation of the first cam member 221 can be constrained by the second cam member 222, and the rotation of the second cam member 222 can be constrained by the first cam member 221.

[0131] Figure 12 The operation of the cam member 220' of the hinge assembly according to a comparative embodiment is illustrated. The foldable electronic device of the comparative embodiment can be used with reference to... Figures 1 to 11 The foldable electronic device 100 described according to one embodiment of this disclosure is substantially the same, except that a cam member 220' contacts the first arm (e.g., Figure 8 The first drive cam portion 273) and the second arm (e.g., Figure 8The second drive cam section 275) is separate from both.

[0132] Figure 13 This illustrates a foldable electronic device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and according to... Figure 12 The graph shows the repulsive force generated by the foldable electronic device of the comparative embodiment during unfolding as a function of angle. Figure 13 The X-curve shown is a graph corresponding to a comparative embodiment, and the Y-curve is a graph corresponding to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0133] Figure 13 The "angle" shown in the graph may include the first housing 110 of the foldable electronic device 100 (see...). Figure 3 ) and second housing 120 (see Figure 3 The angle formed by ). Figure 13 The graph showing the "repulsive force" can be proportional to the force applied to the foldable electronic device 100 during the folding or unfolding process. As an example, the "repulsive force" may include the flexible display 130 (see...). Figure 1 The repulsive force and elastomer 280 (see) Figure 3 The repulsive force of ).

[0134] refer to Figure 12 The cam member 220' of the comparative embodiment may include being configured to interact with the first arm 271 (see...) Figure 4 The first driven cam portion 221a' contacts the first driven cam portion 273 and is configured to contact the second arm 272 (see...). Figure 4 The second driven cam portion 275 contacts the second driven cam portion 222a'.

[0135] When reference Figure 7 When the rotation angle between the first gear 261 and the second gear 262 differs, the first arm 271 (see...) Figure 4 ) and the second arm 272 (see Figure 4 The rotation angles between the two drive cams differ, and the distance the first driven cam portion 221a' moves along the first axis 211 can be longer than the distance the second driven cam portion 222a' moves along the second axis 212. In this case, the cam member 220' may contact one of the first drive cam portion 273 and the second drive cam portion 275, but may not contact the other. Figure 12The diagram shows a situation where the cam member 220' contacts the first drive cam portion 273 but not the second drive cam portion 275, and a gap (I) is formed between them. Therefore, in the case of the comparative embodiment, since the first driven cam portion 221a' and the second driven cam portion 222a' do not both contact the first drive cam portion 273 and the second drive cam portion 275 respectively, an unnatural feeling or collision between components may occur during the folding or unfolding of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0136] refer to Figure 13 In the case of the X-curve representing the comparative embodiment, a sharp change in repulsive force can be identified, while in the case of the Y-curve representing an embodiment of the present disclosure, a relatively gradual change in repulsive force can be identified compared to the X-curve. Therefore, due to the first cam member 221 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (see... Figure 8 ) and the second cam component 222 (see Figure 8 Interlocking allows for relative movement along the first axis 211 or the second axis 212 relative to each other, thus reducing the occurrence of unnaturalness.

[0137] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a pad 166.

[0138] refer to Figure 14 A foldable electronic device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a spacer 166. The spacer 166 may be located between a hinge cover 165 and a first locking portion 221c of a first cam member 221. The spacer 166 may be located between the hinge cover 165 and a second locking portion 222c of a second cam member 222. The spacer 166 may be supported by an inner surface of the hinge cover 165. As an example, the spacer 166 may be attached to the inner surface of the hinge cover 165.

[0139] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, even in hinge assembly 200 (see...) Figure 4 During operation, the first cam member 221 and the second cam member 222 separate from each other and collide with surrounding structures (e.g., hinge cover 165). Collisions and noise can also be mitigated by a shim 166. As an example, the shim 166 can be formed of urethane material.

[0140] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of cam members 1221, 1222 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the cam members 1221, 1222 in a state of interlocking with each other. Figure 16 It is along Figure 15 The cross-sectional view of cam components 1221 and 1222 taken by line B-B' is shown.

[0141] For reference Figures 1 to 11 The descriptions of the components (e.g., first cam member 221, second cam member 222, protrusions 221d, 221e, 221f of the first cam member 221, first connecting portion 221b, first locking portion 221c, rib 221r, protrusions 222d, 222e, 222f of the second cam member 222, second connecting portion 222b, second locking portion 222c, or groove 222g) can be applied substantially equivalently to each other to the extent that they do not conflict with one another. Figure 15 and Figure 16 The same name of the components shown (e.g., first cam member 1221, second cam member 1222, protrusions 1221d, 1221e, 1221f of first cam member 1221, first connecting portion 1221b, first locking portion 1221c, rib 1221r, protrusions 1222d, 1222e, 1222f of second cam member 1222, second connecting portion 1222b, second locking portion 1222c or groove 1222g).

[0142] refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the first locking portion 1221c and the second locking portion 1222c can be interlocked with each other. The first locking portion 1221c may include a rib 1221r. The first locking portion 1221c may be named a protrusion 1221c. The rib 1221r of the protrusion 1221c may have a first axis 211 (see...) Figure 4 The width (W3) defined in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the groove 1222g is less than the specified length (W4) of the groove 1222g. The rib 1221r may be spaced apart from the groove 1222g in the longitudinal direction of the first axis 211.

[0143] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the second locking portion 1222c may include a groove 1222g configured to allow the rib 1221r to be inserted therein. The second locking portion 1222c may be named a recessed portion 1222c. The recessed portion 1222c may include a groove 1222g along the second axis 212 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 4 The groove 1222g extends to a specified length (W4). In the hinge assembly 200 (see...) Figure 4 During operation, rib 1221r can move along the first axis 211 within the groove 1222g (see...). Figure 4 It moves in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0144] Figure 17This is an exploded perspective view of cam members 2221, 2222 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing cam members 2221, 2222 separated from each other.

[0145] For reference Figures 1 to 11 The descriptions of the components (e.g., the first cam member 221, the second cam member 222, the first driven cam portion 221a, the first connecting portion 221b, the first locking portion 221c of the first cam member 221, the second driven cam portion 222a, the second connecting portion 222b, the first hole 221h, the second hole 222h, or the second locking portion 222c of the second cam member 222) can be applied substantially equivalently to each other without conflict. Figure 17 The components with the same names shown (e.g., first cam member 2221, second cam member 2222, first driven cam portion 2221a, first connecting portion 2221b, first locking portion 2221c of first cam member 2221, second driven cam portion 2222a, second connecting portion 2222b, first hole 2221h, second hole 2222h, or second locking portion 2222c of second cam member 2222).

[0146] refer to Figure 17 According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a pin 2223 coupled to a first cam member 2221 and a second cam member 2222. The pin 2223 may be along a first axis 211 (see...). Figure 4 The pin 2223 can be inserted into the first cam member 2221 and the second cam member 2222. The pin 2223 can be inserted into the first locking portion 2221c, or can pass through the first opening 2221o of the first locking portion 2221c. The pin 2223 can be inserted into the second locking portion 2222c, or can pass through the second opening 2222o of the second locking portion 2222c.

[0147] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the first locking portion 2221c may include a first surface 2221k facing the second surface 2222k of the second locking portion 2222c. The first surface 2221k of the first locking portion 2221c and the second surface 2222k of the second locking portion 2222c may be adjacent to each other.

[0148] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the rotation of the first cam member 2221 about the first shaft 211 can be controlled by the first shaft 211 (see [link to previous embodiment]). Figure 4 The second cam member 2222 is constrained by pin 2223. Rotation of the second cam member 2222 about the second shaft 212 can be controlled by the second shaft 212 (see...). Figure 4 ) and sales 2223 constraints.

[0149] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of cam members 3221, 3222 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing cam members 3221, 3222 separated from each other.

[0150] For reference Figures 1 to 11 The descriptions of the components (e.g., the first cam member 221, the second cam member 222, the first driven cam portion 221a, the first connecting portion 221b, the first locking portion 221c of the first cam member 221, the second driven cam portion 222a, the second connecting portion 222b, the first hole 221h, the second hole 222h, or the second locking portion 222c of the second cam member 222) can be applied substantially equivalently to each other without conflict. Figure 18 The components with the same names shown (e.g., first cam member 3221, second cam member 3222, first driven cam portion 3221a of first cam member 3221, first connecting portion 3221b, first locking portion 3221c, second driven cam portion 3222a of second cam member 3222, second connecting portion 3222b, first hole 3221h, second hole 3222h, or second locking portion 3222c).

[0151] refer to Figure 18 According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include pins 3223 coupled to a first cam member 3221 and a second cam member 3222. A plurality of pins 3223 may include a first pin and second pins spaced apart from the first pin in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first axis 211 (e.g., the X-axis direction or the Z-axis direction). The plurality of pins 3223 may be along the first axis 211 (see [reference]). Figure 4 (Extension). Multiple pins 3223 can be inserted into the first cam member 3221 and the second cam member 3222. Multiple pins 3223 can be inserted into the first locking portion 3221c, or can pass through the first opening 3221o of the first locking portion 3221c. Multiple pins 3223 can be inserted into the second locking portion 3222c, or can pass through the second opening 3222o of the second locking portion 3222c.

[0152] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the rotation of the first cam member 3221 about the first shaft 211 can be controlled by the first shaft 211 (see [link to previous embodiment]). Figure 4 The second cam member 3222 is constrained by multiple pins 3223. Rotation of the second cam member 3222 about the second shaft 212 can be controlled by the second shaft 212 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 4 ) and multiple pin 3223 constraints.

[0153] Figure 19This is an exploded perspective view of cam members 4221, 4222 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing cam members 4221, 4222 separated from each other.

[0154] For reference Figures 1 to 11 The descriptions of the components (e.g., the first cam member 221, the second cam member 222, the first driven cam portion 221a, the first connecting portion 221b, the first locking portion 221c of the first cam member 221, the second driven cam portion 222a, the second connecting portion 222b, the first hole 221h, the second hole 222h, or the second locking portion 222c of the second cam member 222) can be applied substantially equivalently to each other without conflict. Figure 19 The components with the same names shown (e.g., first cam member 4221, second cam member 4222, first driven cam portion 4221a of first cam member 4221, first connecting portion 4221b, first locking portion 4221c, second driven cam portion 4222a of second cam member 4222, second connecting portion 4222b, first hole 4221h, second hole 4222h, or second locking portion 4222c).

[0155] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the first locking portion 4221c may include a recessed portion 4221g recessed in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first axis 211. The second locking portion 4222c may include a protrusion 4222r configured to be inserted into the recessed portion 4221g. The protrusion 4222r may be recessed within the recessed portion 4221g along the first axis 211 (see [link to previous embodiment]). Figure 4 It moves in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0156] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the recessed portion 4221g and the protruding portion 4222r can be interlocked with each other to constrain the first cam member 4221 around the first axis 211 (see [link]). Figure 4 The recessed portion 4221g and the protruding portion 4222r can be interlocked with each other to constrain the second cam member 4222 about the second axis 212 (see...). Figure 4 ) rotation.

[0157] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the recessed portion 4221g may at least partially cover the side surface of the protruding portion 4222r facing the first shaft 211 or the second shaft 212. The recessed portion 4221g may interlock with the side surface of the protruding portion 4222r to restrain the rotation of the first cam member 4221.

[0158] To minimize damage to the gear teeth, backlash can be created between the two tooth surfaces of two interlocking gears. However, in the case of a gear train comprising multiple gears (e.g., four), as backlash accumulates between the gears, the rotation angles of two spaced-apart gears may become different. Because of this, structures interlocked with two spaced-apart gears (e.g., shafts, cam members, etc.) may not operate smoothly and may convey an unnatural feeling to the user during the folding and / or unfolding of the hinge assembly. Therefore, extensive research is underway on hinge assembly structures that can improve this unnatural feeling.

[0159] The problem this disclosure aims to solve is to provide a hinge assembly structure that can improve the unnatural feeling that occurs during hinge assembly operation due to backlash accumulation.

[0160] The technical problem to be solved by this disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned problem, and various determinations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0161] Electronic devices according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can improve the unnatural feeling that occurs during the operation of the hinge assembly by separately constructing a component that is interlocked with two gears that have different rotation angles due to backlash.

[0162] The effects that can be obtained from this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains from the following description.

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable electronic device 100 may include a first housing 110 and a second housing 120.

[0164] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device 100 may include a hinge assembly 200 configured to rotate a first housing 110 and a second housing 120.

[0165] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device 100 may include a flexible display 130 disposed on a first housing 110 and a second housing 120.

[0166] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a gear train 260, which includes a first gear 261 configured to rotate in a first rotational direction and a second gear 262 configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0167] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first shaft 211 connected to a first gear 261.

[0168] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a second shaft 212 connected to the second gear 262 and extending along the first shaft 211.

[0169] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a first arm 271 coupled to a first shaft 211 so as to rotate together with the first shaft 211.

[0170] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first arm 271 may be configured to rotate the first housing 210.

[0171] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include a second arm 272 coupled to a second shaft 212 so as to rotate together with the second shaft 212.

[0172] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the second arm 272 can be configured to rotate the second housing 120.

[0173] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include first cam members 221, 1221, 2221, 3221, 4221 that contact the first arm 271 so as to move along the first axis 211 while the first arm 271 rotates.

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include second cam members 222, 1222, 2222, 3222, 4222 that contact the second arm 272 so as to move along the second axis 212 while the second arm 272 rotates.

[0175] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the second cam members 222, 1222, 2222, 3222, and 4222 can be interlocked with the first cam member 221.

[0176] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam members 221, 1221, 2221, 3221, 4221 can move along the first axis 211 relative to the second cam members 222, 1222, 2222, 3222, 4222.

[0177] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a protrusion 221c.

[0178] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member 222 may include a recessed portion 222c configured to receive a protrusion 221c.

[0179] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion 222c can be interlocked with the protruding portion 221c to constrain the rotation of the first cam member 221 about the first axis 211.

[0180] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion 222c may be recessed in a direction from the first axis 211 toward the second axis 212.

[0181] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion 221c may protrude in a direction from the first axis 211 toward the second axis 212.

[0182] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion 222c may include a groove 222g extending along the second axis 212.

[0183] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the groove 222g may have an outwardly opening longitudinal end 222o.

[0184] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion 1222c may include a groove 1222g extending a specified length (W4) along the second axis 212.

[0185] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion 1221c may have a width (W3) defined in the longitudinal direction of the first axis 211, the width (W3) being less than a specified length (W4).

[0186] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion 1221c may include ribs 1221r spaced apart from the groove 1222g in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft 211.

[0187] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a first driven cam portion 221a, which faces and contacts a first drive cam portion 274 of the first arm 271.

[0188] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a first connecting portion 221b extending from the first driven cam portion 221a toward the second cam member 222.

[0189] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a first locking portion 221c that is connected to the first connecting portion 221b and interlocked with the second locking portion 222c of the second cam member 222.

[0190] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first shaft 211 may pass through the first driven cam portion 221a and the connecting portion 221b.

[0191] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking portion 221c may be located between the first axis 211 and the second axis 212.

[0192] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the width (T2) of the first locking portion 221c defined in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft 211 may be greater than the width (T1) of the first connecting portion 221b.

[0193] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a rib 221r ​​that protrudes in a first direction from the first shaft 211 toward the second shaft 212 and extends along the first shaft 211.

[0194] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member 222 may include a groove 222g recessed in a first direction and extending along a second axis 212, wherein a rib 221r ​​is inserted into the groove 222g.

[0195] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first distance (G1) between the protruding end 221p of the rib 221r ​​and the groove 222g can be greater than the second distance (G2, G3) between the lateral surface 221k of the rib 221r ​​and the groove 222g.

[0196] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member 221 may include a first driven cam portion 221a, the first driven cam portion 221a including a plurality of protrusions 221d, 221e, 221f, the plurality of protrusions 221d, 221e, 221f protruding along the first axis 211 toward the first drive cam portion 273 of the first arm 271 and interlocking with the first drive cam portion 273.

[0197] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the length (GL) of the groove 222g extending along the second axis may be greater than the height (H1) of the plurality of protrusions 221d, 221e, 221f protruding along the first axis 211.

[0198] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member 4221 may include a first driven cam portion 4221a that contacts the first drive cam portion 273 of the first arm 271.

[0199] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member 4221 may include a recessed portion 4221g recessed in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft 211.

[0200] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member 4222 may include a second driven cam portion 4222a that contacts the second drive cam portion 275 of the second arm 272.

[0201] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member 4222 may include a protrusion 4222r that is inserted into a recess 4221g and is movable within the recess 4221g along the longitudinal direction of the first shaft 211.

[0202] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the recessed portion 4221g and the protruding portion 4222r can be interlocked with each other to constrain the rotation of the first cam member 4221 about the first axis 211.

[0203] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion 4221g may at least partially cover the side surface of the protruding portion 4222r facing the first axis 211 or the second axis 212.

[0204] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the recessed portion 4221g can be interlocked with the side surface of the protruding portion 4222r to restrain the rotation of the first cam member 4221.

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly 200 may include at least one pin 2223, 3223, which extends along a first shaft 211 and is inserted into a first cam member 2221, 3221 and a second cam member 2222, 3222.

[0206] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, pin 3223 may include a first pin and a second pin spaced apart from the first pin in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the first shaft 211.

[0207] Although specific embodiments have been described in detail in this document, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of this document.

Claims

1. A foldable electronic device, comprising: First shell (110); Second housing (120); A hinge assembly (200) configured to rotate the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). as well as A flexible display (130) is disposed on the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). The hinge assembly (200) includes: Gear train (260), the gear train (260) includes a first gear (261) configured to rotate in a first rotation direction and a second gear (262) configured to rotate in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction. The first shaft (211) is connected to the first gear (261); The second shaft (212) is connected to the second gear (262) and extends along the first shaft (211); The first arm (271) is coupled to the first shaft (211) so as to rotate together with the first shaft (211) and is configured to rotate the first housing (210). The second arm (272) is coupled to the second shaft (212) to rotate together with the second shaft (212) and is configured to rotate the second housing (120). First cam members (221, 1221, 2221, 3221, 4221) contact the first arm (271) so as to move along the first axis (211) while the first arm (271) rotates; and The second cam member (222, 1222, 2222, 3222, 4222) contacts the second arm (272) so as to move along the second axis (212) while the second arm (272) rotates. The second cam member (222, 1222, 2222, 3222, 4222) is interlocked with the first cam member (221, 1221, 2221, 3221, 4221). The first cam member (221, 1221, 2221, 3221, 4221) is movable relative to the second cam member (222, 1222, 2222, 3222, 4222) along the first axis (211).

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, in, The first cam member (221) includes a protrusion (221c), and The second cam member (222) includes a recessed portion (222c) configured to receive the protruding portion (221c) and interlocked with the protruding portion (221c) to constrain the rotation of the first cam member (221) about the first axis (211).

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, in, The recessed portion (222c) is recessed in the direction from the first axis (211) toward the second axis (212), and The protruding portion (221c) protrudes in a direction from the first axis (211) toward the second axis (212).

4. The electronic device according to claim 3, in, The recessed portion (222c) includes a groove (222g) extending along the second axis (212), wherein the longitudinal end (222o) of the groove opens outward.

5. The electronic device according to claim 3, in, The recessed portion (1222c) includes a groove (1222g) extending a specified length (W4) along the second axis (212), and The protruding portion (1221c) includes a rib (1221r) having a width (W3) defined in the longitudinal direction of the first axis (211), the width (W3) being less than the specified length (W4), and the rib (1221r) being spaced apart from the groove (1222g) in the longitudinal direction of the first axis (211).

6. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 5, in, The first cam component (221) includes: The first driven cam portion (221a) faces and contacts the first drive cam portion (274) of the first arm (271). A first connecting portion (221b) extends from the first driven cam portion (221a) toward the second cam member (222); and The first locking portion (221c) is connected to the first connecting portion (221b) and interlocks with the second locking portion (222c) of the second cam member (222).

7. The electronic device according to claim 6, in, The first shaft (211) passes through the first driven cam portion (221a) and the first connecting portion (221b), and The first locking portion (221c) is located between the first shaft (211) and the second shaft (212).

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, in, The width (T2) of the first locking portion (221c) defined in the longitudinal direction of the first axis (211) is greater than the width (T1) of the first connecting portion (221b).

9. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in, The first cam member (221) includes a rib (221r) that projects in a first direction from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212) and extends along the first shaft (211). The second cam member (222) includes a groove (222g) that is recessed in the first direction and extends along the second axis (212), wherein the rib (221r) is inserted into the groove (222g).

10. The electronic device according to claim 9, in, The first distance (G1) between the protruding end (221p) of the rib (221r) and the groove (222g) is greater than the second distance (G2, G3) between the lateral surface (221k) of the rib (221r) and the groove (222g).

11. The electronic device according to claim 9, in, The first cam member (221) includes a first driven cam portion (221a), which includes a plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f) that protrude along the first shaft (211) toward a first drive cam portion (273) of the first arm (271) and are interlocked with the first drive cam portion (273). The length (GL) of the groove (222g) extending along the second axis is greater than the height (H1) of the plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f) protruding along the first axis (211).

12. The electronic device according to claim 1, in, The first cam component (4221) includes: The first driven cam portion (4221a) contacts the first drive cam portion (273) of the first arm (271); and The recessed portion (4221g) is recessed in the longitudinal direction of the first axis (211). The second cam component (4222) includes: The second driven cam portion (4222a) contacts the second drive cam portion (275) of the second arm (272); and The protruding portion (4222r) is inserted into the recessed portion (4221g) and is movable within the recessed portion (4221g) along the longitudinal direction of the first axis (211).

13. The electronic device according to claim 12, in, The recessed portion (4221g) and the protruding portion (4222r) are interlocked to constrain the rotation of the first cam member (4221) about the first axis (211).

14. The electronic device according to claim 13, in, The recessed portion (4221g) at least partially covers the side surface of the protrusion (4222r) facing the first shaft (211) or the second shaft (212), and interlocks with the side surface of the protrusion (4222r) to constrain the rotation of the first cam member (4221).

15. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge assembly (200) further includes at least one pin (2223, 3223) extending along the first shaft (211) and inserted into the first cam member (2221, 3221) and the second cam member (2222, 3222).

Images