Hinge module and foldable electronic device including same

Abstract

A foldable electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed herein may comprise a first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge module configured to rotatably connect the first housing and the second housing to each other. The hinge module may include a first rotation shaft connected to the first housing. The hinge module may include a second rotation shaft connected to the second housing. The hinge module may include a first guide housing through which the first rotation shaft and the second rotation shaft pass and which includes a first guide groove. The hinge module may include a plurality of first rollers which are accommodated in the first guide groove and can move along the first guide groove. The hinge module may include a second guide housing through which the first rotation shaft and the second rotation shaft pass and which includes a second guide groove. The hinge module may include a plurality of second rollers which are accommodated in the second guide groove and can move along the second guide groove. Each of the first guide groove and the second guide groove includes: a first rotation section extending some distance along the circumference of the first rotation shaft that passes through; a second rotation section extending some distance along the circumference of the second rotation shaft that passes through; and an extension section connecting the first rotation section and the second rotation section. The extension section may include a first section composed of a straight line and a second section composed of at least one curved line.

Description

Hinge module and foldable electronic device including the same

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a foldable electronic device including a hinge module supporting in / out folding.

[0002] An electronic device can display an image through a display disposed within a housing. The image displayed on the display may be composed of a plurality of pixels. The display may receive data voltages and light-emitting signals for displaying the image from a display driver IC (DDI).

[0003] Electronic devices may include, for example, portable electronic devices such as smartphones. Portable electronic devices can provide functions such as phone calls, video playback, and / or internet browsing based on various applications. Users desire to access the functions provided by electronic devices through a larger screen. For electronic devices, larger screens can reduce portability. Foldable structures are being developed to provide a larger screen while preventing the loss of portability.

[0004] An electronic device having a foldable structure (hereinafter, referred to as a foldable electronic device) may include two or more housings and a hinge module that allows the two housings to rotate around a pair of rotational axes. The hinge module may support the rotational axes to rotate at the same rotational angle so that a user can fold the electronic device at a desired angle. The hinge module may include a plurality of gears (e.g., a main gear and a sub gear). When the foldable electronic device is folded / unfolded, the plurality of gears apply the same rotational force to the rotational axes, thereby transmitting a uniform load to the display.

[0005] In this way, for the rotation axes to rotate at the same rotational angle, a gear (e.g., a sub-gear) that transmits the rotational force of one rotation axle to the other rotation axle is essential. Since the gear is required for foldable electronic devices, there is a limit to reducing the size of the hinge module by the volume occupied by the gear.

[0006] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a hinge module having a roller-type rotational force transmission structure and a foldable electronic device including the same.

[0007] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge module configured to rotatably connect the first housing and the second housing to each other. The hinge module may include a first rotational axis connected to the first housing. The hinge module may include a second rotational axis connected to the second housing. The hinge module may include a first guide housing through which the first rotational axis and the second rotational axis pass and which includes a first guide groove. The hinge module may include a plurality of first rollers accommodated in the first guide groove and movable along the first guide groove. The hinge module may include a second guide housing through which the first rotational axis and the second rotational axis pass and which includes a second guide groove. The hinge module may include a plurality of second rollers accommodated in the second guide groove and movable along the second guide groove. Each of the first guide groove and the second guide groove may include a first rotation section extending a predetermined section along the circumference of the first rotational axis through which the first guide groove passes; a second rotation section extending a predetermined section along the circumference of the second rotational axis through which the second guide groove passes; and an extension section connecting the first rotation section and the second rotation section. The extension section may include a first section formed of a straight line and a second section formed of at least one curved line.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a hinge module may include a first rotational axis. The hinge module may include a second rotational axis. The hinge module may include a first guide housing through which the first rotational axis and the second rotational axis pass and which includes a first guide groove. The hinge module may include a plurality of first rollers accommodated in the first guide groove and movable along the first guide groove. The hinge module may include a second guide housing through which the first rotational axis and the second rotational axis pass and which includes a second guide groove. The hinge module may include a plurality of second rollers accommodated in the second guide groove and movable along the second guide groove. Each of the first guide groove and the second guide groove may include a first rotation section extending a predetermined section along a circumference of the first rotational axis through which the hinge module passes; a second rotation section extending a predetermined section along a circumference of the second rotational axis through which the hinge module passes; And it may include an extension section connecting the first rotation section and the second rotation section. The extension section may include a first section composed of a straight line and a second section composed of at least one curved line.

[0009] In various embodiments of the present disclosure, since the rotational force transmission structure of the hinge module is implemented as a roller type, the thickness of the hinge module and the rotational axis spacing are reduced compared to the gear type, so that the overall size of the hinge module can be made compact.

[0010] The effects that can be achieved by the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain, from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from the implementation of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a flat stage or unfolding state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2b is a plan view illustrating the front of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2c is a plan view illustrating the rear surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a folding state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3b is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating an intermediate state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first guide housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 8A is a perspective view showing a portion of a rotation axis according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 8b is a drawing showing a plurality of rollers surrounding at least a portion of a rotational axis according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating a portion of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. 9 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB shown in FIG. 9 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC shown in FIG. 9 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a rotational motion of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIGS. 14A and 14B are drawings illustrating the rotation range of a hinge module according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining the leading edge of the guide groove of the guide housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIGS. 16A and 16B are drawings for explaining the leading edge of the guide groove of the guide housing according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIGS. 17A and 17B are exemplary drawings for explaining the position of the driving projection of the rotation shaft accommodated in the guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 18 is a drawing for explaining the positional relationship between the guide housing and the guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining the leading edge of the guide groove of the guide housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIGS. 20A and 20B are diagrams showing examples of interference avoidance sections of a guide home according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIGS. 21A and 21B are drawings showing various embodiments of a guide home according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 22 is a drawing showing an assembly process of a plurality of rollers and a cover to a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 24 is a drawing showing the overall assembly process of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing a gap member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram showing a gap member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram showing a gap member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram showing a gap member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 30A is an exploded perspective view of a hinge module including a sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 30b is a cross-sectional view of a hinge module including a sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge module including a sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIGS. 32a and 32b are drawings showing the shapes of a roller and a guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIGS. 33a and 33b are drawings showing the shapes of a roller and a guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 34a is a drawing showing a roller assembled into a guide housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 34b is a drawing schematically showing a plurality of rollers integrally connected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIGS. 35a to 37b are drawings showing a rotational axis and a guide housing coupled to the rotational axis according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0054] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0055] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0056] In this document, each of the phrases "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 that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0057] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0058] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0059] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0060] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0061] When we say that a component is “on” another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0062] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0063] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0064] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0066] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0067] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0068] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor (120) or the sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., the program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include a volatile memory (132) or a nonvolatile memory (134). The nonvolatile memory (134) can include a built-in memory (136) or an external memory (138).

[0069] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0070] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0071] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0072] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0073] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0074] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0075] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0076] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0077] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0078] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0079] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0080] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0081] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0082] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0083] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0084] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0085] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0086] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0087] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. 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 aforementioned devices.

[0088] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an electronic device in a flat stage or unfolding state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B is a plan view illustrating a front side of the electronic device in a flat stage or unfolding state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2C is a plan view illustrating a rear side of the electronic device in a flat stage or unfolding state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a folding state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating an intermediate state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 2A to 3B, an electronic device (200) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a pair of housings (210, 220) (e.g., foldable housings) that are rotatably coupled to face each other and foldable with respect to a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module (240) of FIG. 4). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (DPM) (e.g., the display (160) of FIG. 1) that is arranged in an area formed by the pair of housings (210, 220). According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged on both sides with respect to a folding axis (F) and may have a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (F). According to one embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the state of the electronic device (200) is a flat stage or unfolding state, a folding state, or an intermediate state.

[0092] A pair of housings (210, 220) may include a first housing (210) (e.g., a first housing structure) coupled with a hinge module (e.g., a hinge module (240) of FIG. 4) and a second housing (220) (e.g., a second housing structure) coupled with the hinge module (e.g., a hinge module (240) of FIG. 4). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include, in an unfolded state, a first surface (211) facing a first direction (e.g., a front direction) (z-axis direction) and a second surface (212) facing a second direction (e.g., a rear direction) (-z-axis direction) opposite to the first surface (211).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a third face (221) facing a first direction (z-axis direction) and a fourth face (222) facing a second direction (-z-axis direction) in an unfolded state. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be operated in such a manner that, in an unfolded state, the first face (211) of the first housing (210) and the third face (221) of the second housing (220) face substantially the same first direction (z-axis direction), and in a folded state, the first face (211) and the third face (221) face each other.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be operated such that, in an unfolded state, the second face (212) of the first housing (210) and the fourth face (222) of the second housing (220) face substantially in the same second direction (-z-axis direction), and in a folded state, the second face (212) and the fourth face (222) face in opposite directions. For example, in a folded state, the second face (212) may face in the first direction (z-axis direction), and the fourth face (222) may face in the second direction (-z-axis direction).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first side frame (213) that at least partially forms an exterior of the electronic device (200) and a first rear cover (214) that is coupled with the first side frame (213) and forms at least a portion of a second side (212) of the electronic device (200). According to one embodiment, the first side frame (213) may include a first side (213a), a second side (213b) that extends from one end of the first side (213a), and a third side (213c) that extends from the other end of the first side (213a). According to one embodiment, the first side frame (213) may be formed into a rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape through the first side (213a), the second side (213b), and the third side (213c).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second side frame (223) that at least partially forms an exterior of the electronic device (200) and a second rear cover (224) that is coupled to the second side frame (223) and forms at least a portion of a fourth side (222) of the electronic device (200). According to one embodiment, the second side frame (223) may include a fourth side (223a), a fifth side (223b) that extends from one end of the fourth side (223a), and a sixth side (223c) that extends from the other end of the fourth side (223b). According to one embodiment, the second side frame (223) may be formed into a rectangular shape through the fourth side (223a), the fifth side (223b), and the sixth side (223c).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the pair of housings (210, 220) are not limited to the illustrated shapes and combinations, and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in some embodiments, the first side frame (213) may be formed integrally with the first rear cover (214), and the second side frame (223) may be formed integrally with the second rear cover (224).

[0098] According to one embodiment, in the electronic device (200), in the unfolded state, the second side (213b) of the first side frame (213) and the fifth side (223b) of the second side frame (223) can be connected without a gap. According to one embodiment, in the electronic device (200), in the unfolded state, the third side (213c) of the first side frame (213) and the sixth side (223c) of the second side frame (223) can be connected without a gap. According to one embodiment, in the electronic device (200), in the unfolded state, the combined length of the second side (213b) and the fifth side (223b) can be longer than the length of the first side (213a) and / or the fourth side (223a). Additionally, the combined length of the third side (213c) and the sixth side (223c) may be configured to be longer than the length of the first side (213a) and / or the fourth side (223a).

[0099] In one embodiment, the first side frame (213) and / or the second side frame (223) may be formed of metal or may further include a polymer that is injected into the metal. In one embodiment, the first side frame (213) and / or the second side frame (223) may also include at least one conductive portion (216 and / or 226) that is electrically segmented through at least one segment (2161, 2162 and / or 2261, 2262) formed of polymer. In this case, the at least one conductive portion may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit included in the electronic device (200) and used as an antenna that operates in at least one designated band (e.g., a legacy band).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (214) and / or the second rear cover (224) may be formed by, for example, at least one or a combination of two of coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium).

[0101] In one embodiment, the flexible display (DPM) may be arranged to extend from a first side (211) of the first housing (210) across a hinge module (e.g., hinge module (240) of FIG. 4) to at least a portion of a third side (221) of the second housing (220). For example, the flexible display (DPM) may include a first planar portion (230a) substantially corresponding to the first side (211), a second planar portion (230b) substantially corresponding to the third side (221), and a bendable portion (230c) connecting the first planar portion (230a) and the second planar portion (230b) and corresponding to the hinge module (e.g., hinge module (240) of FIG. 4). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first protective cover (215) (e.g., a first protective frame or a first decorative member) coupled along an edge of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second protective cover (225) (e.g., a second protective frame or a second decorative member) coupled along an edge of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first protective cover (215) and / or the second protective cover (225) may be formed of a metal or polymer material. According to one embodiment, the first protective cover (215) and / or the second protective cover (225) may be used as a decoration member. According to one embodiment, the flexible display (DPM) may be positioned such that an edge of the first flat portion (230a) is interposed between the first housing (210) and the first protective cover (215). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (DPM) can be positioned such that the edge of the second flat portion (230b) is interposed between the second housing (220) and the second protective cover (225).According to one embodiment, the flexible display (DPM) can be positioned so that an edge of the flexible display (DPM) corresponding to the protective cap is protected by a protective cap (e.g., a protective cap (235) of FIG. 4) disposed in an area corresponding to a hinge module (e.g., a hinge module (240) of FIG. 4). Accordingly, the flexible display (DPM) can be substantially protected from the outside at the edge.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a hinge housing (241) (e.g., a hinge cover) that supports a hinge module (e.g., a hinge module (240) of FIG. 4) and is positioned so as to be exposed to the outside when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state and is introduced into the first space and the second space when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, thereby being invisible from the outside.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a sub-display (231) that is arranged separately from the flexible display (DPM). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (231) may be arranged to be at least partially exposed on the second side (212) of the first housing (210), so that when in a folded state, it may display status information of the electronic device (200) that replaces the display function of the flexible display (DPM). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (231) may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover (214). In some embodiments, the sub-display (231) may be arranged on the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220). In this case, the sub-display (231) may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover (224).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of an input device (e.g., a microphone), an audio output device (201, 202), a sensor module (or sensor) (204), a camera device (205, 208), a key input device (206), or a connector port (207). In the illustrated embodiment, the input device (e.g., a microphone), an audio output device (201, 202), a sensor module (204), a camera device (205, 208), a key input device (206), or a connector port (207) refers to a hole or shape formed in the first housing (210) or the second housing (220), but may be defined to include an actual electronic component (e.g., an input device, an audio output device, a sensor module, or a camera device) disposed inside the electronic device (200) and operating through the hole or shape.

[0105] In one embodiment, the input device may include at least one microphone (203) disposed in the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the input device may include a plurality of microphones (203) disposed so as to detect the direction of sound. In some embodiments, the plurality of microphones (203) may be disposed at appropriate locations in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the audio output devices (201, 202) may include speakers. In one embodiment, the speakers may include a call receiver (201) disposed in the first housing (210) and a speaker (202) disposed in the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the input device, the audio output device (201, 202), and the connector port (207) are disposed in a space provided in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) of the electronic device (200), and can be exposed to the external environment through at least one hole formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the at least one connector port (207) can be used to transmit and receive power and / or data with an external electronic device. In some embodiments, the at least one connector port (e.g., an ear jack hole) can also accommodate a connector (e.g., an ear jack) for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device. In some embodiments, the hole formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) can be used in common for the input device and the audio output device (201, 202). In some embodiments, the audio output device (201, 202) may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without the holes formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (204) can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (204) can detect an external environment, for example, through a first surface (211) of the first housing (210). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may further include at least one sensor module arranged to detect an external environment through a second surface (212) of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (204) (e.g., an illuminance sensor) can be arranged to detect an external environment under a flexible display (DPM) or through the flexible display (DPM). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (204) may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an illumination sensor, a proximity sensor, a biometric sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an illumination sensor.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the camera device (205, 208) may include a first camera device (205) (e.g., a front camera device) disposed on a first side (211) of the first housing (210) and a second camera device (208) (e.g., a rear camera device) disposed on a second side (212) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (200) may further include a flash (209) disposed near the second camera device (208). According to one embodiment, the camera device (205, 208) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (209) may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. According to one embodiment, the camera device (205, 208) may be arranged such that two or more lenses (a wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide-angle lens, or a telephoto lens) and image sensors are positioned on one side of the electronic device (200) (e.g., a first side (211), a second side (212), a third side (221), or a fourth side (222)). In some embodiments, the camera device (205, 208) may also include lenses and image sensors for time of flight (TOF).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the key input device (206) (e.g., a key button) may be disposed on a third side (213c) of the first side frame (213) of the first housing (210). In some embodiments, the key input device (206) may also be disposed on at least one of the other sides (213a, 213b) of the first housing (210) and / or the sides (223a, 223b, 223c) of the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the key input devices (206), and the key input devices (206) that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key, on the flexible display (DPM). In some embodiments, the key input device (206) may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in the flexible display (DPM).

[0109] According to one embodiment, some of the camera devices (205, 208) or sensor modules (204) may be arranged to be exposed through the flexible display (DPM). For example, the first camera device (205) or sensor module (204) may be arranged to be in contact with the external environment through an opening (e.g., a through hole) at least partially formed in the flexible display (DPM) in the internal space of the electronic device (200). In another embodiment, some of the sensor modules (204) may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the flexible display (DPM) in the internal space of the electronic device (200). For example, in this case, an area of ​​the flexible display (DPM) facing the sensor module may not require an opening.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 3B, the electronic device (200) may be operated to maintain an intermediate state through a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module (240) of FIG. 4). In this case, the electronic device (200) may control the flexible display (DPM) to display different contents on the display area (230a) corresponding to the first side (211) and the display area (230b) corresponding to the third side (221). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be operated in a substantially unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state of FIG. 2A) and / or a substantially folded state (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 3A) based on a certain inflection angle (e.g., the angle between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) when in the intermediate state) through the hinge module (e.g., the hinge module (240) of FIG. 4). For example, the electronic device (200) may be operated to transition to an unfolded state (e.g., an unfolded state of FIG. 2a) when a pressure is applied in the unfolding direction (direction B) from a state in which the device is unfolded at a certain inflection angle through a hinge module (e.g., a hinge module (240) of FIG. 4). For example, the electronic device (200) may be operated to transition to a closed state (e.g., a folded state of FIG. 3a) when a pressure is applied in the folding direction (direction C) from a state in which the device is unfolded at a certain inflection angle through a hinge module (e.g., a hinge module (240) of FIG. 4). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be operated to maintain an unfolded state (not shown) at various angles through a hinge module (e.g., a hinge module (240) of FIG. 4).

[0111] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (200) may include a first side frame (213), a second side frame (223), and a hinge module (240) that rotatably connects the first side frame (213) and the second side frame (223). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first support plate (2131) that extends at least partially from the first side frame (213), and a second support plate (2231) that extends at least partially from the second side frame (223). According to one embodiment, the first support plate (2131) may be formed integrally with the first side frame (213) or structurally coupled with the first side frame (213). Similarly, the second support plate (2231) may be formed integrally with the second side frame (223) or structurally coupled with the second side frame (223).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (DPM) arranged to be supported by a first support plate (2131) and a second support plate (2231). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first rear cover (214) coupled with a first side frame (213) and providing a first space between the first support plate (2131) and a second rear cover (224) coupled with a second side frame (223) and providing a second space between the second support plate (2231). In some embodiments, the first side frame (213) and the first rear cover (214) may be formed integrally. In some embodiments, the second side frame (223) and the second rear cover (224) may be formed integrally. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) (e.g., the first housing structure) provided through a first side frame (213), a first support plate (2131), and a first rear cover (214). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) (e.g., the second housing structure) provided through a second side frame (223), a second support plate (2231), and a second rear cover (224). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a sub-display (231) arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover (214).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first substrate assembly (261) (e.g., a main printed circuit board), a camera assembly (263), a first battery (271), or a first bracket (251) disposed in a first space between a first side frame (213) and a first rear cover (214). According to one embodiment, the camera assembly (263) may include a plurality of camera devices (e.g., the camera devices (205, 208) of FIGS. 2A and 3A) and may be electrically connected to the first substrate assembly (261). According to one embodiment, the first bracket (251) may provide a support structure and enhanced rigidity for supporting the first substrate assembly (261) and / or the camera assembly (263). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second substrate assembly (262) (e.g., a sub-printed circuit board), an antenna (290) (e.g., a coil member), a second battery (272), or a second bracket (252) disposed in a second space between the second side frame (223) and the second rear cover (224). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a wiring member (280) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) disposed to extend from the first substrate assembly (261) across the hinge module (240) to a plurality of electronic components (e.g., the second substrate assembly (262), the second battery (272), or the antenna (290)) disposed between the second side frame (223) and the second rear cover (224) and providing an electrical connection. According to one embodiment, the antenna (290) may include a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna (290) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device (e.g., the electronic device (102) of FIG. 1) or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a hinge housing (241) (e.g., a hinge cover) that supports the hinge module (240) and is exposed to the outside when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 3A) and is positioned so as to be invisible from the outside by being introduced into the first space and / or the second space when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state of FIG. 2A).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first protective cover (215) coupled along an edge of a first side frame (213). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second protective cover (225) coupled along an edge of a second side frame (223). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (DPM) may have an edge of a first planar portion (e.g., the first planar portion (230a) of FIG. 2B) protected by the first protective cover (215). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (DPM) may have an edge of a second planar portion (e.g., the second planar portion (230b) of FIG. 2B) protected by the second protective cover (225). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a protective cap (235) positioned to protect an edge of a bendable portion (e.g., a bendable portion (230c) of FIG. 2b) corresponding to a hinge module (240) of a flexible display (DPM).

[0116] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first guide housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 7, a hinge module (300) according to one embodiment (e.g., hinge module (240) of FIG. 4) may include a pair of hinge brackets (310), a pair of rotational axes (320), a first guide housing (330), a second guide housing (340), a spacer (350), a plurality of first rollers (360a), a plurality of second rollers (360b), and a cover (370).

[0118] According to one embodiment, a pair of hinge brackets (310) may be rotatably connected to each of a pair of housings (e.g., a pair of housings (210, 220) of FIGS. 2A-3B). In one embodiment, the pair of hinge brackets (310) may include a first hinge bracket (310a) rotatably connected to a first housing (e.g., a first housing (210) of FIGS. 2A-3B)) and a second hinge bracket (310b) rotatably connected to a second housing (e.g., a second housing (220) of FIGS. 2A-3B).

[0119] According to one embodiment, a pair of rotational axes (320) may pass through a pair of hinge brackets (310), a first guide housing (330), a second guide housing (340), and a spacer (350). In one embodiment, each of the pair of rotational axes (320) may pass through each of the pair of hinge brackets (310a, 310b) and be coupled to each of the hinge brackets (310a, 310b). When a foldable electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A to 3B) is folded / unfolded, the rotational axes (320) may rotate through the hinge brackets (310) connected to the housing (e.g., the housings (210, 220) of FIGS. 2A to 3B).

[0120] According to one embodiment, a first guide groove (331) may be formed recessed in one surface (e.g., the front surface) of the first guide housing (330) to accommodate a plurality of first rollers (360a). The one surface of the first guide housing (330) may be a surface facing the second guide housing (340) and / or the spacer (350). The function, structure, and / or shape of the first guide groove (331) will be described later.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the first guide housing (330) may be provided with shaft holes (332a, 332b) through which a pair of rotation shafts (320) pass.

[0122] According to one embodiment, a spacer mounting portion (333) may be provided in the center of the first guide housing (330) so that a spacer (350) is mounted thereon, and is formed by being recessed from one surface (e.g., the front) of the first guide housing (330). In one embodiment, the spacer mounting portion (333) may be configured to substantially correspond to the shape of the spacer (350). In one embodiment, the spacer mounting portion (333) may form a step with the first guide groove (331). For example, the recessed depth of the spacer mounting portion (333) may be shallower than the recessed depth of the first guide groove (331).

[0123] According to one embodiment, a cover insertion portion (334) into which a cover (370) is inserted may be provided in the central portion of the first guide housing (330). In one embodiment, the cover insertion portion (334) may be located on the lower side of the central portion of the first guide housing (330). In one embodiment, the cover insertion portion (334) may be in communication with the first guide groove (331). In one embodiment, the cover insertion portion (334) may mean a space in which a portion of the first guide housing (330) is escaped so as to have a shape corresponding to the cover (370).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the second guide housing (340) may be arranged to cover one side (e.g., the front side) of the first guide housing (330). In one embodiment, a second guide groove (e.g., the second guide groove (341) of FIG. 11) in which a second plurality of rollers (360b) are accommodated may be provided on one side (e.g., the back side) of the second guide housing (340). Although not specifically illustrated, the second guide groove (341) may have a shape that is symmetrical left and right with respect to the first guide groove (331) with respect to the folding axis (e.g., the folding axis (F) of FIGS. 2A to 3B).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the second guide housing (340) may be provided with shaft holes (342a, 342b) through which a pair of rotation shafts (320) pass.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the spacer (350) may be disposed between the first guide housing (330) and the second guide housing (340). In one embodiment, the spacer (350) may be disposed in the spacer mounting portion (333) of the first guide housing (330). The spacer (350) may cover a portion of the first guide groove (331) of the first guide housing (330) (e.g., a portion of the first guide groove (331) formed in the central portion of the first guide housing (330). The plurality of first rollers (360a) accommodated in the first guide groove (331) may be prevented from being separated from the first guide groove (331) by a partition plate of the rotational shaft (330) (e.g., a partition plate (3212) of FIG. 8) and / or the spacer (350). In one embodiment, the spacer (350) can spatially separate (or partition) a plurality of first rollers (360a) accommodated in a first guide groove (331) of a first guide housing (330) and a plurality of second rollers (360b) accommodated in a second guide groove (341) of a second guide housing (340) within the hinge module (300).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the cover (370) may have an overall “ㅗ” shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the cover (370) may be coupled to the lower side of the coupled first guide housing (330) and second guide housing (340) through the cover insertion portion (334) of the first guide housing (330). Hereinafter, a method for assembling and / or replacing a plurality of rollers (360) within the hinge module (300) through the cover (370) will be described below with reference to FIGS. 22 and 23.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the first guide housing (330), the second guide housing (340) and the spacer (350) can be assembled into one assembly via at least one fastening member (FM) (e.g., a bolt).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the plurality of rollers (360a, 360b) and the guide housing (330, 340) may be made of a material with good heat resistance and wear resistance, such as ceramic, to prevent malfunction of the hinge module (300) in a high-temperature environment and heat generation of the electronic device.

[0130] In one embodiment, the hinge module (300) may include at least one spacer member (or gap member) (380) to compensate for a gap between rollers that occurs due to manufacturing tolerances or wear and tear over time. In one embodiment, at least one spacer member (380) may be positioned between a plurality of rollers (360).

[0131] FIG. 8A is a perspective view illustrating a portion of a rotational shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8B is a drawing illustrating a plurality of rollers surrounding at least a portion of a rotational shaft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 8a, a rotation shaft (320) according to one embodiment may include a partition plate (3212) and a driving projection (3213).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the rotation axis (320) may have an overall cylindrical shape.

[0134] According to one embodiment, a partition plate (3212) may be provided at a position adjacent to one end (3211) of the rotation shaft (320). The one end (3211) of the rotation shaft (320) may be an end of the rotation shaft (320) that is visible to the outside by penetrating the first guide housing (330) and the second guide housing (340). In one embodiment, the partition plate (3212) may extend along the circumferential direction of the rotation shaft (320). In one embodiment, the partition plate (3212) may have an overall circular shape.

[0135] According to one embodiment, a driving projection (3213) may be provided on each of both surfaces of the partition plate (3212) (e.g., surfaces perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rotation shaft (320). In one embodiment, the driving projection (3213) may include a first driving projection (3213a) protruding from one surface of the partition plate (3212) (e.g., a surface facing the other end of the rotation shaft (320). In one embodiment, the driving projection (3213) may include a second driving projection (3213b) protruding from the other surface of the partition plate (3212) opposite to the one surface (e.g., a surface facing one end (3211) of the rotation shaft (320). In one embodiment, the formation positions of the first driving projection (3213a) and the second driving projection (3213b) may vary depending on the arrangement structure of the plurality of rollers (360). For example, the first driving protrusion (3213a) and the second driving protrusion (3213b) may be arranged misaligned on each side of the partition plate (3212) with respect to the center of the rotation axis (320).

[0136] Referring to FIG. 8b, a plurality of second rollers (360b) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the rotational shaft (320) on one surface of the partition plate (3212) of the rotational shaft (320) (e.g., the surface closest to one end (3211) of the rotational shaft (320). A roller located at the outermost side among the plurality of second rollers (360b) may be in contact with a second driving protrusion (3213b) of the rotational shaft (320). Although not specified in this drawing, a plurality of first rollers (360a) may also be arranged to surround at least a portion of the rotational shaft (320) on the other surface opposite to the one surface of the partition plate (3212) of the rotational shaft (320). A roller located at the outermost side among the plurality of first rollers (360a) may be in contact with a first driving protrusion (3213a) of the rotational shaft (320).

[0137] When a plurality of rollers (360a, 360b) are arranged to surround at least a portion of the rotation shaft (320) and come into contact with the protrusions (3213a, 3213b), when the rotation shaft (320) rotates, the plurality of rollers (360a, 360b) that come into contact with the driving protrusions (3213a, 3213b) can be pressed as the driving protrusions (3213a, 3213b) of the rotation shaft (320) rotate.

[0138] FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating a portion of a hinge module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA illustrated in FIG. 9 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB illustrated in FIG. 9 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC illustrated in FIG. 9 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a rotational operation of a hinge module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 13, a hinge module (300) according to one embodiment can apply the rotational force of one of a pair of rotational axes (320) to a plurality of rollers (360) through a driving protrusion (3213) when a foldable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A to 3B) is unfolded / folded. The plurality of rollers (360) that have received the rotational force can slide within guide grooves (331, 341) and apply substantially the same rotational force to the opposite rotational axes (320).

[0140] In one embodiment, in order to apply substantially the same rotational force to the opposite rotational shaft (320) regardless of the rotational direction of the rotational shaft (320), each of the guide housings (330, 340) may have a plurality of rollers (360a, 360b) accommodated in guide grooves (331, 341). In one embodiment, the guide grooves (331, 341) of the guide housings (330, 340) may be formed symmetrically with respect to a folding axis (e.g., the folding axis (F) of FIGS. 2A to 3B). The plurality of rollers (360a, 360b) accommodated in each of the guide grooves (331, 341) are interlocked and slide in opposite directions when the rotational shaft (320) rotates. Hereinafter, the specific shape (or, line) of the guide groove (331, 341) of the guide housing (330, 340) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 15 to 21.

[0141] Hereinafter, the movement of multiple rollers (360) when the rotation axis (320) rotates will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0142] As illustrated in Fig. 11, when an external force is applied to the first rotation shaft (320a) to rotate counterclockwise (CCW), the second fixed protrusions (3213b) of the first rotation shaft (320a) pressurize the plurality of second rollers (360b) to move the plurality of second rollers (360b) in the first direction (DR1) (e.g., forward direction) within the second guide groove (341). At this time, the second fixed protrusions (3213b) of the second rotation shaft (320b) on the opposite side are pressed by the plurality of second rollers (360b) moving in the first direction (DR1) within the second guide groove (341), thereby causing the second rotation shaft (320b) to rotate clockwise (CW).

[0143] When the second plurality of rollers (360b) press the second fixed protrusions (3213b) of the second rotational shaft (320b), as illustrated in FIG. 12, as the first fixed protrusions (3213a) of the second rotational shaft (320b) press the plurality of first rollers (360a), the plurality of first rollers (360a) move in the second direction (DR2) (e.g., in the reverse direction) opposite to the first direction (DR1) within the first guide groove (331), or as the first fixed protrusions (3213a) of the first rotational shaft (320a) rotate along the empty space within the first guide groove (331), the plurality of first rollers (360a) move in the second direction (DR2) within the first guide groove (331).

[0144] The housings (e.g., the housings (210, 220) of FIGS. 2A to 3B) of a foldable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A to 3B) are moved away from each other by the mutual operation of a rotational shaft (320) and a plurality of rollers (360), so that an unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device (200) is performed. In the case of the folding operation of the foldable electronic device (200), the rotational direction of the rotational shaft (320) is changed, and the folding operation is performed substantially the same as the unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device (200) described above.

[0145] As the plurality of first rollers (360a) and the plurality of second rollers (360b) are linked to each other and move in opposite directions when the rotation shaft (320) rotates, the rotation shafts (320a, 320b) (or hinge brackets (310a, 310b)) can rotate at substantially the same rotation angle (α) as shown in FIG. 13.

[0146] FIGS. 14A and 14B are drawings illustrating the rotation range of a hinge module according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0147] FIG. 14a schematically illustrates a portion of a hinge module (300) designed to support both in-folding / out-folding operations, and FIG. 14b schematically illustrates a portion of a hinge module (300') designed to support only in-folding operations.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B , a hinge module (300, 300') according to one embodiment may be designed to have a rotation range capable of in-folding and / or out-folding operations. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the second guide groove (341) of the second guide housing (340) will be described as a reference, but substantially the same description may also be applied to the first guide groove (e.g., the first guide groove (331) of FIG. 12) of the first guide housing (e.g., the first guide housing (330) of FIG. 12 ).

[0149] Referring to FIG. 14A, a guide groove (341) of a guide housing (340) according to one embodiment may extend along the circumference of an axial hole (342) of the guide housing (340). In one embodiment, the guide groove (341) may extend along the circumference of the axial hole (342) such that when the hinge bracket (310) is vertically arranged upwardly with respect to the guide housing (340) (e.g., in a folded state of the foldable electronic device), an angle (β) formed between a point (P1) where a driving protrusion (3213) of the rotational shaft (320) is positioned and an end (P2) of the guide groove (341) is substantially 180 degrees. In this case, the hinge bracket (310) may be vertically arranged upwardly / downwardly with respect to the guide housing (340) at the most, and may perform an in / out folding operation within the angle (β).

[0150] Referring to FIG. 14b, the guide groove (341') ​​of the guide housing (340') according to one embodiment may extend along the circumference of the shaft hole (342) such that the angle (β') formed by the point (P1) where the driving protrusion (3213) of the rotational axis (320) is located and the end (P2') of the guide groove (341') ​​is substantially 90 degrees when the hinge bracket (310) is vertically arranged upwardly with respect to the guide housing (340') (e.g., in a folded state of the foldable electronic device). In this case, the hinge bracket (310) may be vertically arranged upwardly with respect to the guide housing (340') at the maximum, or may be arranged parallel to the right, and may perform an in-folding operation within the angle (β').

[0151] FIG. 15 is a drawing for explaining the guide groove of a guide housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16a and FIG. 16b are drawings for explaining the guide groove of a guide housing according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 17a and FIG. 17b are exemplary drawings for explaining the position of a driving protrusion of a rotational shaft accommodated in a guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0152] In explaining the leading of the guide groove with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17b, for convenience of explanation, the second guide groove (341) of the second guide housing (340) is used as a reference, but the explanation given below can be applied substantially identically / similarly to the first guide groove (e.g., the first guide housing (330) of FIG. 12) of the first guide housing (e.g., the first guide groove (331) of FIG. 12).

[0153] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 17, the second guide groove (341) of the second guide housing (340) according to one embodiment may include a first rotation section (3411), a connection section (3412), and a second rotation section (3413).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the first rotation section (3411) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the first rotation axis (320a). In one embodiment, the first rotation section (3411) may extend a predetermined distance along the circumference of the shaft hole (342a). In one embodiment, the extension length of the first rotation section (3411) may vary depending on the rotation angle (e.g., 90 degrees or 180 degrees) of the first rotation axis (320a) that has been designed. In one embodiment, the first rotation section (3411) may have an overall arc shape. When the first hinge bracket (310a) rotates, the driving protrusion (3213) of the first rotation axis (320a) may rotate within the first rotation section (3411) and move the plurality of rollers (360).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the connecting section (3412) can connect the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413). In one embodiment, the connecting section (3412) can be composed of a straight section and a curved section. The connecting section (3412) can provide a path along which the plurality of rollers (360) move from the first rotation section (3411) to the second rotation section (3413) or from the second rotation section (3413) to the first rotation section (3411). Hereinafter, a specific diagram of the connecting section (3412) will be described below with reference to FIGS. 19, 20A, and 20B.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the second rotation section (3413) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the second rotation axis (320b). In one embodiment, the second rotation section (3413) may extend a predetermined section along the periphery of the shaft hole (342b). In one embodiment, the second rotation section (3413) may have an overall arc shape. When the second hinge bracket (310b) rotates, the second rotation axis (320b) may rotate within the second rotation section (3413) and move the plurality of rollers (360). In one embodiment, the extension length of the second rotation section (3413) may vary depending on the rotation angle (e.g., 90 degrees or 180 degrees) of the previously designed second rotation axis (320b).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413) may have shapes that are symmetrical in the upper and lower / left and right directions with respect to the connection section (3412).

[0158] FIG. 16a illustrates a second guide groove (341) of a second guide housing (340) configured to support in / out folding, and FIG. 16b illustrates a second guide groove (341') ​​of a second guide housing (340') configured to support only in-folding.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 16a and 16b, the first rotation section (3411) of the second guide groove (341) according to one embodiment may include a first-first rotation section (34111) and a first-second rotation section (34112).

[0160] In one embodiment, the first-second rotation section (34112) may be a section extending from one end of the extension section (3412) to the first-first rotation section (34111). In one embodiment, the point where the first-second rotation section (34112) and the extension section (3412) meet may correspond to a point where a vertical line passing through the center (C1) of the first rotation axis (320a) passes. For example, the first-second rotation section (34112) and the extension section (3412) may be connected in a tangential direction of the first rotation axis (320a).

[0161] According to one embodiment, one end of the first-second rotation section (34112) may be in contact with the extension section (3412), and the other end of the first-second rotation section (34112) may be in contact with the first-first rotation section (34111). At this time, the other end of the first-second rotation section (34112) in contact with the first-first rotation section (34111) may be located at a point where the roller and the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) come into contact, although this is not specifically illustrated.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the first-first rotation section (34111) can extend along the circumference of the first rotation axis (320a) from the other end of the first-second rotation section (34112). In one embodiment, the first-first rotation section (34111) can be designed in consideration of the rotation angle of the first rotation axis (320a). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 16A, the first-first rotation section (34111) can be designed such that the maximum rotation angle (β) of the first rotation axis (320a) is substantially 180 degrees. When the first rotation axis (320a) can rotate within the range of the maximum rotation angle (β), the hinge module can perform an in / out folding operation. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 16b, the first-first rotation section (34111') may be designed such that the maximum rotation angle (β') of the first rotation axis (320a) is substantially 90 degrees. When the first rotation axis (320a) is rotatable within the range of the maximum rotation angle (β'), the hinge module may perform an in-folding operation.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the second rotation section (3413) of the second guide groove (341) may include a second-first rotation section (34131) and a second-second rotation section (34132). In describing the second rotation section (3413, 3413'), the description of the first rotation section (3411, 3411') described above may be substantially identically / similarly applied.

[0164] FIG. 17a is a drawing showing a state in which a point (CP) where a driving projection (3213) of a first rotational shaft (320a) and a roller (360) come into contact moves within a first rotational section (3411), and FIG. 17b is a drawing showing a state in which a point (CP) where a driving projection (3213) of a first rotational shaft (320a) and a roller (360) come into contact moves out of the first rotational section (3411).

[0165] Referring to FIG. 17a, when the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) rotates along the 1-1 rotation section (34111) and the 1-2 rotation section (34112) of the first rotation section (3411), the contact point (CP) between the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) and the roller (360) may be located within a range that does not exceed a vertical line passing through the center (C1) of the first rotation shaft (320a). When the contact point (CP) between the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) and the roller (360) is located within the first-second rotation section (34112), the contact area between the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) and the roller (360) becomes maximum, and the rotational force of the first rotation shaft (320a) can be applied to the roller (360) without loss.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 17b, when the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) rotates outside the first rotation section (3411), the contact point (CP) between the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) and the roller (360) may be located within a range exceeding the vertical line passing through the center (C1) of the first rotation shaft (320a). When the contact point (CP) between the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) and the roller (360) is located outside the first-second rotation section (34112), compared to the case illustrated in FIG. 17a, the contact area between the driving projection (3213) of the first rotation shaft (320a) and the roller (360) decreases, and the rotational force of the first rotation shaft (320a) transmitted to the roller (360) may decrease.

[0167] FIG. 18 is a drawing for explaining the positional relationship between the guide housing and the guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 18, among the sections constituting the second guide groove (341) according to one embodiment, sections adjacent to the second rotation axis (320b) (e.g., the second rotation section (3413) and the second extension section (the second extension section (34122) of FIG. 19)) may be provided to be spaced apart from the edge of the second guide housing (340) by a predetermined distance (T2). In one embodiment, the distance (T2) between sections (3413, 34122) of the second guide groove (341) and the second guide housing (340) may be designed in consideration of the thickness of the roller (360) accommodated in the second guide groove (241) in order to secure the minimum rigidity of the second guide housing (340). The predetermined distance (T2) may be set to have a value that is at least 1 / 3 of the thickness (or radius) (T1) of the roller (360). For example, The distance (T2) may have a value corresponding to 0.3 to 0.5 times the thickness (or radius) (T1) of the roller (360).

[0169] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining the leading edge of a guide groove of a guide housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 20a and 20b are drawings illustrating examples of interference avoidance sections of a guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0170] In describing the guide groove (or shape, path) with reference to FIGS. 19, 20a and 20b, for convenience of explanation, the second guide groove (341) of the second guide housing (340) is used as a reference, but the following description can be substantially identically / similarly applied to the first guide groove (e.g., the first guide housing (330) of FIG. 12) of the first guide housing (e.g., the first guide groove (331) of FIG. 12).

[0171] Referring to FIGS. 19, 20a, and 20b, according to one embodiment, the line shape of the extension section (3412) can determine the thickness of the hinge module in the folded state. In one embodiment, the interaxial distance (W) connecting the centers (C1, C2) of the first rotation axis (320a) and the second rotation axis (320b) can vary depending on the line shape of the extension section (3412).

[0172] According to one embodiment, the extension section (3412) of the second guide home (341) may include a first extension section (34121) and a second extension section (34122).

[0173] In one embodiment, the first extension section (34121) may be configured as a straight section overall. In one embodiment, the first extension section (34121) may be connected to the first rotation section (3411) (specifically, the first-second rotation section (34112)) in a tangential direction of the first rotation shaft (320a). The roller may receive a rotational force from the first rotation shaft (320a) in the tangential direction to smoothly move between the first rotation section (3411) and the extension section (3412).

[0174] In one embodiment, the second extension section (34122) may be configured as an entirely curved section. In one embodiment, the second extension section (34122) may be designed to avoid interference with an object adjacent to the second guide housing (340), such as the display (DPM) of FIG. 15 . The second extension section (34122) may also be referred to as an interference avoidance section.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the second extension section (34122) may include a second-first extension section (34122a), which is a curved section, and a second-second extension section (34122b), which is another curved section, as illustrated in FIG. 20A. In one embodiment, the second-first extension section (34122a) and the second-second extension section (34122b) may have different curvatures. In one embodiment, the second-first extension section (34122a) and the second-second extension section (34122b) may be connected in the tangential direction of virtual circles (C_1, C_2) that determine the curvatures of the second-first extension section (34122a) and the second-second extension section (34122b).

[0176] According to one embodiment, the second extension section (34122') may include a second-first extension section (34122a') which is a curved section, a second-second extension section (34122b') which is a straight section, and a second-third extension section (34122c) which is another curved section, as illustrated in FIG. 20b. In one embodiment, the second-first extension section (34122a) and the second-second extension section (34122b) may have different curvatures. In one embodiment, the second-second extension section (34122b') may be connected in a tangent direction to virtual circles that determine the curvatures of the second-first extension section (34122a') and the second-third extension section (34122c). For example, the second-second extension section (34122b') may correspond to a tangent line of the virtual circles (C_1, C_2).

[0177] FIGS. 21A and 21B are drawings showing various embodiments of a guide home according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0178] Figures 21a and 21b disclose leading of guide grooves according to various embodiments.

[0179] FIG. 21a illustrates a second guide housing (340") of a hinge module (300") that supports in / out folding.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 21a, the rotation sections (3411, 3413) of the guide home (341") according to one embodiment can be arranged so that the rotation angle of the rotation axis can be up to 180 degrees to enable an in / out folding operation of the hinge module (300") (see FIG. 14a).

[0181] The second extension section (34122) of the guide home (341") may be composed of two curved sections (34122a, 34122b), as illustrated in FIG. 20a.

[0182] FIG. 21b illustrates a second guide housing (340"') of a hinge module (300"') that supports in-folding.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 21b, the guide groove (341"') according to one embodiment may be provided such that the rotation sections (3411', 3413') have a rotation angle of the rotation axis of up to 90 degrees to enable an in-folding operation of the hinge module (300"') (see FIG. 14b).

[0184] The second extension section (34122') of the guide home (341"') may be sequentially composed of a curved section (34122a'), a straight section (34122b'), and a curved section (34122c), as illustrated in FIG. 20b.

[0185] As shown in the hinge modules (300", 300"') illustrated in FIGS. 21a and 21b, respectively, if the extension lengths of the rotation sections (3411, 3413, 3411', 3413') are designed differently, the rotation range of the hinge module can be adjusted. In addition, if the leading shape of the second extension section (34122, 34122') is designed differently, the width (W) of the hinge module (or the distance between the axes of rotation) can be adjusted.

[0186] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating a process of assembling a plurality of rollers and a cover into a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 24 is a drawing illustrating an overall assembly process of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0187] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, a plurality of rollers (360) can be inserted into the guide housings (330, 340) or withdrawn to the outside of the guide housings (330, 340) through the cover insertion portions (334) provided on the lower sides of the guide housings (330, 340) when the rotation shafts (320) are assembled to the first guide housing (330) and the second guide housing (340). Although not specifically illustrated in this drawing, since a plurality of rollers (360) can be inserted / withdrawn into each of the guide grooves (331, 341) in the guide housings (330, 340) when the guide housings (330, 340) are assembled, when wear of the rollers occurs or a gap occurs between the rollers depending on the operation of the hinge module (300), the rollers can be easily replaced without completely disassembling the hinge module (300). When the replacement of the plurality of rollers (360) is completed, the cover (370) is inserted into the cover insertion portion (334) and then coupled to the guide housing (340) through the fastening member (FM), thereby completing the replacement of the plurality of rollers (360) or the assembly of the hinge module (300).

[0188] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, a hinge module (300') according to one embodiment may be provided as an integral unit without a cover (370), unlike the hinge module (300) illustrated in FIG. 22.

[0189] When a separate cover (370) is not provided as in FIGS. 24 and 25, the entire hinge module (300') must be completely disassembled when assembling the hinge module (300') or replacing the roller (360). However, since the cover insertion portion (334) of the guide housing (330, 340) as illustrated in FIG. 22 is not required, the overall height (H') of the hinge module (300') (specifically, the guide housing (e.g., the second guide housing (340"")) can be reduced compared to the height (H) of the hinge module (300) illustrated in FIG. 23.

[0190] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram illustrating a gap member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram illustrating a gap member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram illustrating a gap member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram illustrating a gap member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0191] FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 illustrate a case where the gap member (380, 380') is implemented as an elastic body, FIG. 28 illustrates a case where the gap member (380") is implemented as a ring structure, and FIG. 29 illustrates a case where the gap member (380"') is implemented as a spring structure.

[0192] Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, at least one gap member (380, 380') according to one embodiment may be made of an elastic material. In one embodiment, at least one gap member (380, 380') may have a spherical shape (see FIG. 26) or a cylindrical shape (see FIG. 27), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. When a gap occurs between rollers (360) due to manufacturing tolerance or wear of the rollers (360), at least one gap member (380, 380') interposed between the plurality of rollers (360) can elastically stretch to fill the gap, and thus, the hinge module can operate smoothly without replacing the rollers (360).

[0193] Referring to FIG. 28, a gap member (380") according to one embodiment may have a ring shape. In one embodiment, the gap member (380") may have a thickness corresponding to the gap so as to be placed in the gap when the gap occurs between the rollers (360) due to manufacturing tolerances and wear of the rollers (360).

[0194] Referring to FIG. 29, a gap member (380'') according to one embodiment may include a first part (381), a coupling portion (382) extending from the first part (381), a second part (383) fastened to the coupling portion (382), and an elastic member (384) disposed between the first part (381) and the second part (383). In one embodiment, the first part (381) and the coupling portion (382) may be provided integrally, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the elastic member (384) may be disposed to surround the coupling portion (382) between the first part (381) and the second part (383). In one embodiment, the first part (381) and the second part (383) may have an overall ball shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In this case, a gap may be formed between the rollers (360) due to manufacturing tolerances or wear of the rollers (360). When a gap occurs, the elastic member (384) of the gap member (380"') can elastically stretch to fill the gap.

[0195] FIG. 30A is an exploded perspective view of a hinge module including a sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 30B is a cross-sectional view of a hinge module including a sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge module including a sealing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0196] Referring to FIGS. 30A and 30B, a lubricant may be applied to a plurality of rollers (360) according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the hinge module (300) may include a sealing member (390) that prevents the lubricant applied to the plurality of rollers (360) from leaking to the outside.

[0197] In one embodiment, a sealing member (390) may be positioned between the second guide housing (340) and the spacer (350).

[0198] According to one embodiment, the sealing member (390) may be implemented as a gasket type. In one embodiment, the sealing member (390) may have a plate shape that corresponds to the guide housing (330, 340) as a whole. In one embodiment, the sealing member (390) may include a sealing groove (391) that accommodates a plurality of rollers (360) and corresponds to the guide grooves (331, 341), an axial hole (392a, 329b) through which the rotation shaft (320a, 320b) passes, and a cover groove (393) that accommodates at least a portion of the cover (370).

[0199] As illustrated in FIG. 30b, since a plurality of rollers (360a, 360b) within the hinge module (300) are surrounded by a sealing member (390), a guide housing (330, 340), a spacer (350), and a cover (370), the lubricant applied to the plurality of rollers (360a, 360b) can be prevented from leaking to the outside.

[0200] Referring to FIG. 31, a sealing member (390') according to one embodiment may be implemented as an O-ring type. In one embodiment, a sealing groove (335) recessed from one surface may be provided in the first guide housing (330) to accommodate the O-ring type sealing member (390'). Although the sealing groove (335) is illustrated as being provided in the first guide housing (330) in this drawing, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the sealing groove may also be provided in the second guide housing (340).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the sealing member may be implemented as a liquid gasket type. The liquid gasket may be applied to the surface of the guide housings to surround a plurality of rollers, and the lubricant applied to the plurality of rollers may be prevented from being exposed to the outside by the hardened liquid gasket.

[0202] FIGS. 32A and 32B are drawings showing the shapes of a roller and a guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 33 is a drawing showing the shapes of a roller and a guide groove according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0203] For convenience of explanation, FIGS. 32a, 32b and 33 are described based on the first guide housing (330), but the description of the first guide housing (330) (hereinafter, guide housing (330)) can be substantially equally applied to the second guide housing (340).

[0204] Fig. 32a illustrates an example in which a plurality of rollers (360) are implemented as ball types, and Fig. 32b illustrates a guide housing (330) provided to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the plurality of rollers (360) when the plurality of rollers (360) are implemented as ball types.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 32A and 32B , the plurality of rollers (360) according to one embodiment may have a ball shape. The plurality of rollers (360) may, for example, have a sphere shape. In one embodiment, the guide groove (331) of the guide housing (330) may be configured to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the plurality of rollers (360) so as to accommodate the plurality of rollers (360) on the inside. In one embodiment, the recessed surface of the guide groove (331) may be configured as a curved surface corresponding to the shape of the plurality of ball-type rollers (360).

[0206] FIG. 33a illustrates an example in which a plurality of rollers (360') are implemented in a truncated cone (or taper) type, and FIG. 33b illustrates a guide housing (330') provided to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the plurality of rollers (360') when the plurality of rollers (360') are implemented in a truncated cone (or taper) type.

[0207] Referring to FIGS. 33A and 33B , the plurality of rollers (360') according to one embodiment may have a truncated cone (or tapered) shape. In one embodiment, the guide grooves (331', 341') ​​of the guide housing (330') may be configured to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the plurality of rollers (360) so as to accommodate the plurality of rollers (360') on the inside. In one embodiment, the guide grooves (331') may be configured to have a width that becomes narrower as they go in the sinking direction.

[0208] The plurality of rollers (360, 360') illustrated in FIGS. 32a to 33b are examples, and the shapes of the plurality of rollers in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0209] FIG. 34a is a drawing showing a roller assembled into a guide housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 34b is a drawing schematically showing a plurality of rollers integrally connected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0210] Fig. 34a is a drawing showing a plurality of first rollers (360a) being assembled into a first guide housing (330). Hereinafter, when explaining the process of assembling a plurality of rollers into a guide housing, the first guide housing (330) and the plurality of first rollers (360a) will be described as reference, but the following description can be substantially equally applied to the assembly process of a second guide housing (e.g., the second guide housing (340) of Fig. 6) and a plurality of second rollers (e.g., a plurality of second rollers (360b)).

[0211] Referring to FIG. 34a, a plurality of rollers (360) according to one embodiment may be assembled to the first guide housing (330) by being accommodated in the first guide groove (331) provided in the first guide housing (330). At this time, as illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 21a, respectively, the interaxial distance (W, W') between the rotation axes (e.g., the rotation axes (320a, 320b) of FIGS. 19 and 21a) may vary depending on the shape of the guide groove's leading edge. In this case, the number of rollers accommodated in the guide grooves may also vary, thereby increasing the difficulty of assembly, and there is the inconvenience of a worker having to repeatedly assemble each of the plurality of rollers one by one.

[0212] Referring to FIG. 34b, a plurality of rollers (360) according to one embodiment may be integrally connected by a single string (363). In one embodiment, a hole (361) through which the string (363) passes may be provided on the inner side (e.g., the center) of each of the plurality of rollers (360). In one embodiment, a stopper groove (362) communicating with the hole (361) may be provided on each of the rollers that contact each of a pair of rotational shafts (320a, 320b) among the plurality of rollers (360). In one embodiment, the stopper groove (362) may be designed to be larger than the diameter (or width) of the hole (361). In one embodiment, a stopper (363a, 363b) formed to substantially correspond to the shape of the stopper groove (362) may be provided on each of both ends of the string (363).

[0213] When the string (363) continuously penetrates the plurality of rollers (360) and each of the stoppers (363a, 363b) of the string (363) is caught in the stopper groove (362) provided on the roller (360) located at the outermost side, the plurality of rollers (360) are connected as one piece, thereby preventing the rollers connected to the string (363) from falling off (or coming off). In this way, when the rollers are connected as one piece using the string (363), the rollers can be assembled to the guide housing in one motion, thereby simplifying the assembly process and preventing the loss of small rollers during the assembly process.

[0214] FIGS. 35a to 37b are drawings showing a rotational axis and a guide housing coupled to the rotational axis according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0215] FIGS. 35a, 36a, and 37a are perspective views each illustrating a modified example of a rotation shaft (320', 320", 320"') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIGS. 35b, 36b, and 37b are cross-sectional views each schematically illustrating a modified example of a guide housing (340, 340""') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, to which a modified rotation shaft (320', 320", 320"') is coupled.

[0216] Referring to FIGS. 35A and 35B, the driving protrusion (3213') of the rotation shaft (320') according to one embodiment may be provided so that the width (or thickness) of the driving protrusion (3213') is thicker compared to the driving protrusion (3213) of the rotation shaft (320) illustrated in FIG. 8. In one embodiment, the driving protrusion (3213') of the rotation shaft (320') may extend a predetermined section along the edge of the partition plate (3212). In this case, the rigidity of the driving protrusion (3213') of the rotation shaft (320') can be sufficiently secured.

[0217] Referring to FIGS. 36a and 36b, the driving protrusion (3213") of the rotation shaft (320") according to one embodiment may be spaced apart from one end (3211) of the rotation shaft (320") by a predetermined distance so as not to be connected to the end (3211) of the rotation shaft (320"), unlike the driving protrusions (3213, 3213') of the rotation shafts (320, 320') illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 35a, respectively. In one embodiment, the driving protrusion (3213") of the rotation shaft (320") may be formed to protrude from one surface of the partition plate (3212'). In one embodiment, the driving protrusion (3213") of the rotation shaft (320") may have an overall cylindrical shape. In one embodiment, the guide groove (341") of the guide housing (for example, the second guide housing (340")) may be spaced apart from the shaft hole (342a, 342b) by a predetermined distance. They can be arranged to be spaced apart. In this case, as the rotation radius of the driving projection (3213") of the rotational shaft (320") increases, the rotational force applied to the roller accommodated in the guide groove (341""') can increase.

[0218] Referring to FIGS. 37a and 37b, the driving protrusion (3213"') of the rotation shaft (320"') according to one embodiment may be provided to have a thicker width (or thickness) compared to the driving protrusion (3213"') of the rotation shaft (320") illustrated in FIG. 36a. In one embodiment, the driving protrusion (3213"') of the rotation shaft (320"') may extend a predetermined section along the edge of the partition plate (3212'). In one embodiment, the driving protrusion (3213"') of the rotation shaft (320"') may be formed in an overall elliptical shape. In this case, the rigidity of the driving protrusion (3213"') of the rotation shaft (320"') may be sufficiently secured.

[0219] A foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing (210). The foldable electronic device (200) may include a second housing (220). The foldable electronic device (200) may include a hinge module (300) configured to rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) to each other. The hinge module (300) may include a first rotational axis (320a) connected to the first housing (210). The hinge module (300) may include a second rotational axis (320b) connected to the second housing (220). The hinge module (300) may include a first guide housing (330) through which the first rotational axis (320a) and the second rotational axis (320b) pass and which includes a first guide groove (331). The hinge module (300) may include a plurality of first rollers (360a) that are accommodated in the first guide groove (331) and are movable along the first guide groove (331). The hinge module (300) may include a second guide housing (340) through which the first rotational axis (320a) and the second rotational axis (320b) pass and which includes a second guide groove (341). The hinge module (300) may include a plurality of second rollers (360b) that are accommodated in the second guide groove (341) and are movable along the second guide groove (341). Each of the first guide groove (331) and the second guide groove (341) may include a first rotation section (3411) extended by a predetermined section along the circumference of the first rotation axis (320a) through which the first guide groove is inserted; a second rotation section (3413) extended by a predetermined section along the circumference of the second rotation axis (320b) through which the second guide groove is inserted; and an extension section (3412) connecting the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413).The above extension section (3412) may include a first section (34121) composed of a straight line and a second section (34122, 34122') composed of at least one curve.

[0220] According to one embodiment, the second section (34122') of the extension section (3412) is

[0221] It may include a 2-1 section (34122a') which is a sequentially arranged curved section, a 2-2 section (34122b') which is a straight section, and a 2-3 section (34122c) which is a curved section.

[0222] According to one embodiment, the second section (34122) of the extension section (3412)

[0223] It includes a curved section, the 2-1 section (34122a), and a curved section, the 2-2 section (34122b), but the 2-1 section (34122a) and the 2-2 section (34122b) may have different curvatures.

[0224] According to one embodiment, each of the first guide groove (331) and the second guide groove (341) is positioned a predetermined distance (T2) from the edge of the guide housing (330, 340), and the predetermined distance may be at least 1 / 3 of the thickness (T1) of the roller (360).

[0225] According to one embodiment, the extension section (3412) can be connected along the tangential direction of the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413) to the rotation axis (320).

[0226] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (300) may include a spacer (350) disposed between the first guide housing (330) and the second guide housing (340) and arranged to cover at least a portion of the first guide groove (331) and the second guide groove (341).

[0227] According to one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of first rollers (360a) and the plurality of second rollers (360b) may have a shape of either a ball or a taper.

[0228] According to one embodiment, each of the first rotational axis (320a) and the second rotational axis (320b) may include a partition plate (3212) extending along the circumference of the shaft to isolate the plurality of first rollers (360a) accommodated in the first guide groove (331) and the plurality of second rollers (360b) accommodated in the second guide groove (341), and a driving projection (3213) protruding from one surface of the partition plate (3212) and the other surface opposite to the one surface.

[0229] According to one embodiment, the first guide housing (330) may include a cover insertion portion (334) that communicates with the first guide groove (331). The hinge module (300) may include a cover (370) that is detachably coupled to the first guide housing (330) through the cover insertion portion (334).

[0230] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (300) may include at least one spacing member (380) disposed between the plurality of first rollers (360a) or the plurality of second rollers (360b).

[0231] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (300) may include a sealing member (390) disposed between the first guide housing (330) and the second guide housing (340) and surrounding the plurality of first rollers (360a) and the plurality of second rollers (360b).

[0232] A hinge module (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first rotational axis (320a). The hinge module (300) may include a second rotational axis (320b). The hinge module (300) may include a first guide housing (330) through which the first rotational axis (320a) and the second rotational axis (320b) pass and which includes a first guide groove (331). The hinge module (300) may include a plurality of first rollers (360a) accommodated in the first guide groove (331) and movable along the first guide groove (331). The hinge module (300) may include a second guide housing (340) through which the first rotational axis (320a) and the second rotational axis (320b) pass and which includes a second guide groove (341). The hinge module (300) may include a plurality of second rollers (360b) accommodated in the second guide groove (341) and movable along the second guide groove (341). Each of the first guide groove (331) and the second guide groove (341) may include a first rotation section (3411) extended by a predetermined section along the circumference of the first rotational axis (320a) through which the first guide groove (331) passes; a second rotation section (3413) extended by a predetermined section along the circumference of the second rotational axis (320b) through which the second guide groove (331) passes; and an extension section (3412) connecting the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413). The extension section (3412) may include a first section (34121) formed of a straight line and a second section (34122, 34122') formed of at least one curved line.

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device (200), It comprises a first housing (210); a second housing (220); and a hinge module (300) configured to rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) to each other. The above hinge module (300) is A first rotation shaft (320a) connected to the first housing (210); A second rotation shaft (320b) connected to the second housing (220); A first guide housing (330) through which the first rotation axis (320a) and the second rotation axis (320b) pass and which includes a first guide groove (331); A plurality of first rollers (360a) accommodated in the first guide groove (331) and capable of moving along the first guide groove (331); A second guide housing (340) through which the first rotation axis (320a) and the second rotation axis (320b) pass and which includes a second guide groove (341); and It includes a plurality of second rollers (360b) that are accommodated in the second guide groove (341) and can move along the second guide groove (341). Each of the above first guide home (331) and the above second guide home (341) It includes a first rotation section (3411) extended by a predetermined section along the circumference of the first rotation axis (320a) through which it is penetrated; a second rotation section (3413) extended by a predetermined section along the circumference of the second rotation axis (320b) through which it is penetrated; and an extension section (3412) connecting the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413). The above extension section (3412) is a device including a first section (34121) composed of a straight line and a second section (34122, 34122') composed of at least one curve.

2. In paragraph 1, The second section (34122') of the above extension section (3412) is A device comprising a 2-1 section (34122a') which is a sequentially arranged curved section, a 2-2 section (34122b') which is a straight section, and a 2-3 section (34122c) which is a curved section.

3. In paragraph 1, The second section (34122) of the above extension section (3412) is A device comprising a 2-1 section (34122a) which is a curved section and a 2-2 section (34122b) which is a curved section, wherein the 2-1 section (34122a) and the 2-2 section (34122b) have different curvatures.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, Each of the above first guide home (331) and the above second guide home (341) A device positioned at a predetermined distance (T2) from the edge of the guide housing (330, 340), wherein the predetermined distance is at least 1 / 3 of the thickness (T1) of the roller (360).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above extension section (3412) is a device that is connected along the tangential direction of the rotation axes (320a, 320b) to each of the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, A device including a spacer (350) disposed between the first guide housing (330) and the second guide housing (340) and arranged to cover at least a portion of the first guide groove (331) and the second guide groove (341).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, A device wherein at least one of the plurality of first rollers (360a) and the plurality of second rollers (360b) has a shape of either a ball or a taper.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, Each of the first rotation axis (320a) and the second rotation axis (320b) A device including a partition plate (3212) extending along the circumference of an axis to isolate the plurality of first rollers (360a) accommodated in the first guide groove (331) and the plurality of second rollers (360b) accommodated in the second guide groove (341), and a driving projection (3213) protruding from one surface of the partition plate (3212) and the other surface opposite to the one surface, respectively.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above first guide housing (330) is It includes a cover insert (334) that is connected to the first guide home (331). The above hinge module (300) is A device including a cover (370) that is detachably coupled to the first guide housing (330) through the cover insert (334).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above hinge module (300) is A device comprising at least one spacing member (380) arranged between the plurality of first rollers (360a) or the plurality of second rollers (360b).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above hinge module (300) is A device comprising a sealing member (390) disposed between the first guide housing (330) and the second guide housing (340) and surrounding the plurality of first rollers (360a) and the plurality of second rollers (360b).

12. In the hinge module (300), First rotation axis (320a); Second rotation axis (320b); A first guide housing (330) through which the first rotation axis (320a) and the second rotation axis (320b) pass and which includes a first guide groove (331); A plurality of first rollers (360a) accommodated in the first guide groove (331) and capable of moving along the first guide groove (331); A second guide housing (340) through which the first rotation axis (320a) and the second rotation axis (320b) pass and which includes a second guide groove (341); and It includes a plurality of second rollers (360b) that are accommodated in the second guide groove (341) and can move along the second guide groove (341). Each of the above first guide home (331) and the above second guide home (341) A first rotation section (3411) extended by a predetermined section along the circumference of the first rotation axis (320a) through which the first rotation is passed; a second rotation section (3413) extended by a predetermined section along the circumference of the second rotation axis (320b) through which the second rotation is passed; and an extension section (3412) connecting the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413), The above extension section (3412) is a device including a first section (34121) composed of a straight line and a second section (34122, 34122') composed of at least one curve.

13. In paragraph 12, The second section (34122') of the above extension section (3412) is A device comprising a 2-1 section (34122a') which is a sequentially arranged curved section, a 2-2 section (34122b') which is a straight section, and a 2-3 section (34122c) which is a curved section.

14. In paragraph 12, The second section (34122) of the above extension section (3412) is A device comprising a 2-1 section (34122a) which is a curved section and a 2-2 section (34122b) which is a curved section, wherein the 2-1 section (34122a) and the 2-2 section (34122b) have different curvatures.

15. In any one of paragraphs 12 to 14, The above extension section (3412) is a device that is connected along the tangential direction of the first rotation section (3411) and the second rotation section (3413) and the rotation axes (320a, 320b).

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