Electronic apparatus comprising flexible display

Abstract

A multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may comprise: a first housing including a first side surface; a second housing; a third housing; and a flexible display. The electronic device may comprise: a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; and a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing. The first hinge structure and the second hinge structure may be configured to provide an unfolded state and a plurality of folded states. The first side surface may include a pattern including a plurality of protrusions.

Description

Electronic devices including flexible displays

[0001] The various embodiments described below relate to electronic devices including flexible displays.

[0002] Electronic devices with large displays can enhance user usability. As demand for highly portable electronic devices increases, electronic devices may include transformable displays. These transformable displays may be slidable, rollable, or foldable.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] In one embodiment, a multi-foldable electronic device may include a first housing including a first surface and a first side surface. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second housing including a second surface and rotatably coupled to the first housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a third housing including a third surface and rotatably coupled to the second housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a flexible display disposed on the first surface, the second surface, and the third surface, the flexible display including a first display area disposed on the first surface, a second display area disposed on the second surface, and a third display area disposed on the third surface. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge structure between the first housing and the second housing that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing, and a second hinge structure between the second housing and the third housing that rotatably connects the second housing and the third housing. The first hinge structure and the second hinge structure may be configured to provide a plurality of folding states, including an unfolded state, a first folding state in which the first housing and the second housing are folded, and a second folding state in which the second housing and the third housing are folded. A width between the first housing and the second housing of the first hinge structure may be smaller than a width between the second housing and the third housing of the second hinge structure. The first side surface may be configured to include a pattern including a plurality of protrusions.

[0005] In one embodiment, a multi-foldable electronic device may include a first housing including a first surface and side surfaces extending from the first surface, a second housing including a second surface, a third housing including a third surface, and a flexible display disposed on the first surface, the second surface, and the third surface. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge structure between the first housing and the second housing that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing, and a second hinge structure between the second housing and the third housing that rotatably connects the second housing and the third housing. The first hinge structure and the second hinge structure may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first surface, the second surface, and the third surface face the same direction, and a plurality of folded states in which at least one of the first surface, the second surface, and the third surface faces a different direction. The side surfaces may include a pattern including a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of grooves between the plurality of protrusions, and a first side surface having an incline with respect to the first side, and configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display within the plurality of folding states.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0007] Figure 2a illustrates an unfolded state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0008] Figure 2b illustrates a first folding state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0009] Figure 2c illustrates a second folding state of the exemplary electronic device.

[0010] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0011] FIG. 4A illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0012] FIG. 4b is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second folded state taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2c.

[0013] FIG. 4c is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second folded state taken along line B-B' of FIG. 2c.

[0014] FIG. 4d is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second folded state taken along line C-C' of FIG. 2c.

[0015] FIG. 5A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0016] Figure 5b illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device.

[0017] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0018] FIG. 7A illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0019] FIG. 7b is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0020] Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a first folding state.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0022] 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)).

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0026] 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).

[0027] 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).

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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).

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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)).

[0043] 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.

[0044] For example, the display of the display module (160) may be flexible. For example, the display may include a display area that is exposed outside the housing of the electronic device (101), which provides at least a portion of the outer surface of the electronic device (101). For example, since the display has flexibility, at least a portion of the display may be rollable into the housing or slidable into the housing. For example, the size of the display area may change depending on the size of the at least a portion of the display that is rolled into the housing or slid into the housing. For example, the electronic device (101) including the display may be in a plurality of states, including a first state providing the display area having a first size and a second state providing the display area having a second size different from the first size. For example, the first state may be exemplified through the description of FIGS. 2A and 2B.

[0045] Figure 2a illustrates an unfolded state of an exemplary electronic device. Figure 2b illustrates a first folded state of an exemplary electronic device. Figure 2c illustrates a second folded state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0046] The display of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1) can be folded at least once. The display may be referred to as a foldable display or a flexible display in terms of having a folding structure. The electronic device (101) may be referred to as a foldable electronic device or a flexible electronic device in terms of including a foldable display. The electronic device (101) may be referred to as a multi-foldable electronic device in terms of including a display that can be folded multiple times. The electronic device (101) that may be referred to as a multi-foldable electronic device may have a plurality of folding axes (e.g., a first folding axis (f1) and a second folding axis (f2)).

[0047] Referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), a flexible display (240), a first hinge structure (250), and a second hinge structure (260). The first housing (210) may include a first surface (210a). The second housing (220) may include a second surface (220a). The third housing (230) may include a third surface (230a). The second housing (220) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing (210). The third housing (230) may be rotatably coupled to the second housing (220).

[0048] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (240) may be disposed on one surface formed by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). The flexible display (240) may be disposed on the first surface (210a), the second surface (220a), and the third surface (230a). For example, referring to FIG. 2A, in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101), the first surface (210a), the second surface (220a), and the third surface (230a) may be referred to as the front surface of the electronic device (101). For example, the first housing (210) may further include a fourth surface (210b) opposite the first surface (210a). The second housing (220) may further include a fifth surface (220b) opposite the second surface (220a). The third housing (230) may further include a sixth surface (220b) opposite the third surface (230a). The fourth surface (210b), the fifth surface (220b), and the sixth surface (230b) may be referred to as a rear surface of the electronic device (101) in an unfolded state of the electronic device (101). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of surfaces forming a front surface in an unfolded state of the electronic device (101) by including a plurality of folding axes, and a plurality of other surfaces forming a rear surface opposite to the front surface.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a cover display (not shown) disposed on a sixth surface (230b) opposite to the third surface (230a) of the third housing (230). For example, the cover display may be separated from the flexible display (240) by the third housing (230). For example, referring to FIG. 2C, the cover display disposed on the sixth surface (230b) may be configured to provide visual information to the user within the second folded state. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the camera module (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1) of the electronic device (101) may be exposed to the outside at least partially through a fifth surface (220b) opposite to the second surface (220a) of the second housing (220). For example, the camera module (180) may include at least one lens (not shown) for receiving light from the outside. At least a portion of the at least one lens may be exposed through the fifth surface (220b) of the second housing (220). By including the camera module (180) at least a portion of which is exposed through the fifth surface (220b) of the second housing (220), the electronic device (101) may provide a variety of user experiences to the user within a plurality of folding states of the electronic device (101).

[0051] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (240) may include a first display area (241), a second display area (242), and a third display area (243). The first display area (241) may be disposed on a first surface (210a) of the first housing (210). The first display area (241) may be an area that is coupled to the first surface (210a) and is not deformed. The second display area (242) may be disposed on a second surface (220a) of the second housing (220). The second display area (242) may be an area that is coupled to the second surface (220a) and is not deformed. The third display area (243) may be disposed on a third surface (230a) of the third housing (230). The third display area (243) may be an area that is coupled to the third surface (230a) and is not deformed. The first display area (241), the second display area (242), and the third display area (243) may be referred to as a plane area because they substantially form a plane.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first set of side faces (201) extending from a first face (210a). The second housing (220) may include a second set of side faces (202) extending from a second face (220a). The third housing (230) may include a third set of side faces (203) extending from a third face (230a). The first set of side faces (201) may include a first side face (211), a second side face (212) contacting the first side face (211), and a third side face (213) contacting the first side face (211) and facing the second side face (212). The second set of side surfaces (202) may include a fourth side surface (221) and a fifth side surface (222) facing the fourth side surface (221). The third set of side surfaces (203) may include a sixth side surface (231), a seventh side surface (232) contacting the sixth side surface (231), and an eighth side surface (233) contacting the sixth side surface (231) and facing the seventh side surface (232).

[0053] For example, the first set of side faces (201) may be disposed between a first side (210a) of the first housing (210) and a fourth side (210b) opposite the first side (210a). The first set of side faces (201) may, together with the first hinge structure (250), surround a space between the first side (210a) and the fourth side (210b). For example, the second set of side faces (202) may be disposed between a second side (220a) of the second housing (220) and a fifth side (220b) opposite the second side (220a). The second set of side faces (202) may, together with the first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260), surround a space between the second face (220a) and the fifth face (220b). For example, the third set of side faces (203) may be disposed between the third face (230a) of the third housing (230) and a sixth face (230b) opposite the third face (210a). The third set of side faces (203), together with the second hinge structure (260), may surround a space between the third face (230a) and the sixth face (230b).

[0054] For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, at least a portion of the first set of side surfaces (201) of the first housing (210) may be gripped by a user to cause the electronic device (101) to change from a first folded state to an unfolded state or from the unfolded state to the first folded state. For example, referring to FIGS. 2B and 2C, at least a portion of the third set of side surfaces (203) of the third housing (230) may be gripped by a user to cause the electronic device (101) to change from a second folded state to a first folded state or from the second folded state to the first folded state. By the user's grip, the electronic device (101) may change from an unfolded state to a plurality of folded states or from the plurality of folded states to the unfolded state.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (250) can rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The first hinge structure (250) can be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The second hinge structure (260) can rotatably connect the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The second hinge structure (260) can be disposed between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). For example, the first hinge structure (250) can be a structure that connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) so that the first housing (210) can rotate with respect to the second housing (220). For example, the second hinge structure (260) may be a structure that connects the third housing (230) and the second housing (220) so that the third housing (230) can rotate with respect to the second housing (220). For example, the first hinge structure (250) may provide a first folding axis (f1) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) so that the first housing (210) can rotate with respect to the second housing (220). For example, the second hinge structure (260) may provide a second folding axis (f2) between the third housing (230) and the second housing (220) so that the third housing (230) can rotate with respect to the second housing (220).

[0056] Although the electronic device (101) is described as including a first hinge structure (250) and a second hinge structure (260), it is not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) can be folded two or more times by including a plurality of hinge structures including the first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260). The electronic device (101) can provide a variety of user experiences to the user by including a plurality of folding axes provided by the plurality of hinge structures.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 2A, the first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may be configured to provide an unfolding state in which the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) face the same direction. The unfolding state of the electronic device (101) may be a state in which the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) face substantially the same first direction (e.g., the +z direction).

[0058] For example, the electronic device (101) may be unfolded within an unfolded state. The unfolded state may be referred to as a state in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are unfolded. Within the unfolded state, the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may form a substantially flat surface. For example, the first surface (210a), the second surface (220a), and the third surface (230a) included in the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), respectively, may be formed to be substantially flat. When the electronic device (101) including the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) is in an unfolded state, the first surface (210a), the second surface (220a), and the third surface (230a) may form a substantially flat plane. For example, the unfolded state may be a state in which the first display area (241), the second display area (242), and the third display area (243) of the flexible display (240) are oriented in substantially the same first direction (e.g., the +z direction). For example, the unfolded state may be a state in which the deformable areas (e.g., the fourth display area (244) and the fifth display area (245)) of the flexible display (240) are unfolded. For example, the unfolded state may be a state in which the first angle (a1) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and the second angle (a2) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are each substantially 180 degrees.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 2b and 2c, the first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can be configured to provide a plurality of folding states in which at least one of the first face (210a), the second face (210b), and the third face (230a) faces in different directions. In one embodiment, the plurality of folding states may mean states in which at least one of the first face (210a) and the third face (230a) is tilted with respect to the second face (220a). For example, the plurality of folding states may mean states in which the second face (220a) faces in a first direction (e.g., the +z direction) and at least one of the first face (210a) and the third face (230a) faces in a direction different from the first direction. For example, the plurality of folding states may be states in which the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) do not form a plane. For example, the plurality of folding states may be states in which at least one of the first display area (241), the second display area (242), and the third display area (243) of the flexible display (240) faces a different direction. For example, the plurality of folding states may be states in which at least some of the deformable areas (e.g., the fourth display area (244) and the fifth display area (245)) are bent. For example, the plurality of folding states may include states in which the first angle (a1) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) is positioned within a range of 0 degrees or more and less than 180 degrees. The above-described plurality of folding states may include states in which the second angle (a2) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) is located within a range of 0 degrees or more and less than 180 degrees.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 2B, the first folding state of the electronic device (101) may be a state in which, among the plurality of folding states of the electronic device (101), a second side (e.g., the second side (220a) of FIG. 2A) and a third side (e.g., the third side (230a) of FIG. 2A) face a first direction (e.g., the +z direction) and the first side (210a) faces a second direction (e.g., the -z direction) opposite to the first direction. For example, the first folding state may be a state in which the second side (220a) and the third side (230a) form a substantially flat surface and the first side (210a) faces the second side (220a). For example, the first folding state may be a state in which the second display area (242) and the third display area (243) face a first direction (e.g., +z direction) and the first display area (241) faces a second direction (e.g., -z direction) opposite to the first direction. For example, the first folding state may be a state in which the fourth display area (244) is bent to the maximum and the fifth display area (245) is unfolded.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2C, the second folding state of the electronic device (101) may be a state in which, among the plurality of folding states of the electronic device (101), the second face (220a) faces a first direction (e.g., +z direction) and the first face (210a) and the third face (230a) face a second direction (e.g., -z direction) opposite to the first direction. For example, the second folding state may be a state in which the second face (220a) faces the first face (210a) and the third face (230a) faces the fourth face (210b) opposite to the first face (210a). For example, the second folding state may be a state in which the first housing (210) is positioned between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). For example, the second folding state may be a state in which the first housing (210) is disposed between the second display area (242) and the third display area (243). For example, the second folding state may be a state in which the second display area (242) faces a first direction (e.g., +z direction) and the first display area (241) and the third display area (243) face a second direction (e.g., -z direction) opposite to the first direction. For example, the second folding state may be a state in which the fourth display area (244) is bent to the maximum and the fifth display area (245) faces the first side (211). For example, within the second folding state, the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may be stacked in the first direction (e.g., +z direction).

[0062] Referring again to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, the first display area (241) of the flexible display (240) can face the second display area (242) within a first folding state among the plurality of folding states of the electronic device (101). The fifth display area (245) can face the first side (211) of the first housing (210) within a second folding state among the plurality of folding states.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (250) may include a plurality of first hinges (251, 252). The second hinge structure (260) may include a plurality of second hinges (261, 262). The first hinges (251, 252) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The first hinges (251, 252) may rotatably connect the first housing (210) to the second housing (220). For example, through the first hinges (251, 252), the first housing (210) may rotate with respect to the second housing (220) about the first folding axis (f1). According to one embodiment, by rotating the first housing (210), the first angle (a1) between the second housing (220) and the first housing (210) can be positioned within a range of a predetermined angle (e.g., approximately 0 to 180 degrees). The predetermined angle is not limited to 0 to 180 degrees, and the first housing (210) can rotate within a range supported by the first hinges (251, 252) with respect to the second housing (220). The second hinges (261, 262) can be arranged between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The second hinges (261, 262) can rotatably connect the third housing (230) with respect to the second housing (220). For example, through the second hinges (261, 262), the third housing (230) can rotate with respect to the second housing (220) about the second folding axis (f2). According to one embodiment, through the rotation of the third housing (230), the second angle (a2) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) can be positioned within a range of a predetermined angle (e.g., approximately 0 to 180 degrees). The predetermined angle is not limited to 0 to 180 degrees, and the third housing (230) can rotate with respect to the second housing (220) within a range supported by the second hinges (261, 262).

[0064] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (250) may include a first hinge cover (253). The second hinge structure (260) may include a second hinge cover (263). The first hinges (251, 252) may be surrounded by the first hinge cover (253). One (251) of the first hinges (251, 252) may be disposed in a portion of the first hinge cover (253), and the other (252) may be disposed in another portion of the first hinge cover (253). The second hinges (261, 262) may be surrounded by the second hinge cover (263). One (261) of the second hinges (261, 262) may be positioned in a portion of the second hinge cover (263), and the other (262) may be positioned in another portion of the second hinge cover (263).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (240) may further include a fourth display area (244) and a fifth display area (245), which are flexible areas at least partially of which can be bent flexibly so as to be rotatable by the first hinge structure (250) and / or the second hinge structure (260). The fourth display area (244) may be disposed on the first hinge cover (253). The fourth display area (244) may be coupled with the first hinge cover (253) or the first hinges (251, 252). For example, the fourth display area (244) may be supported by a hinge plate (not shown) included in the first hinges (251, 252). The fourth display area (244) can be deformed as the first housing (210) rotates about the first folding axis (f1) with respect to the second housing (220). The fifth display area (245) can be disposed on the second hinge cover (263). The fifth display area (245) can be coupled with the second hinge cover (263) or the second hinges (261, 262). For example, the fifth display area (245) can be supported by a hinge plate (not shown) included in the second hinges (261, 262). The fifth display area (245) can be deformed as the third housing (230) rotates about the second folding axis (f2) with respect to the second housing (220).

[0066] According to one embodiment, the first width (w1) of the first hinge structure (250) may be smaller than the second width (w2) of the second hinge structure (260). For example, the second width (w2) may be larger than the first width (w1). Since the second width (w2) is larger than the first width (w1), a space equal to the difference between the second width (w2) and the first width (w1) may be formed in a second folded state in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded relative to the second housing (220). A structure may be formed in which the first housing (210) is arranged so that at least a portion of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first side surface (211) of the first housing (210)) is accommodated within the space. For example, the area of ​​the fifth display area (245) disposed on the second hinge structure (260) may be wider than the area of ​​the fourth display area (244) disposed on the first hinge structure (250). For example, the width (w2) of the fifth display area (245) may be larger than the width (w1) of the fourth display area (244). For example, when the electronic device (101) changes from an unfolded state to a plurality of folded states, the radius of curvature of the fifth display area (245) may be larger than the radius of curvature of the fourth display area (244). For example, since the first width (w1) of the first hinge structure (250) is smaller than the second width (w2) of the second hinge structure (260), the third housing (230) can be stacked on the first housing (210) after the first housing (210) is stacked on the second housing (220) while the electronic device (101) changes from an unfolded state to a second folded state. The electronic device (101) can be referred to as an electronic device (101) having a G-fold shape within the second folded state.For example, the second folding state of the electronic device (101) may be a state in which the first housing (210) is folded with respect to the second housing (220), and then the third housing (230) is folded with respect to the second housing (220) so that the third housing (230) covers the fourth surface (210b) opposite to the first surface (210a) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) may have a G shape when viewed from the side (e.g., when viewed in the +y direction). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the radius of rotation of the first housing (210) with respect to the second housing (220) may be smaller than the radius of rotation of the third housing (230) with respect to the second housing (220).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include first magnets (271, 272) and second magnets (281, 282) configured to interact with the first magnets (271, 272). The first magnets (271, 272) may be disposed within the first housing (210). The second magnets (281, 282) may be disposed within the second housing (220). For example, the first magnets (271, 272) may be disposed along a first side (211) of the first housing (210). For example, the first magnets (271, 272) may be arranged closer to one side of the first housing (210) facing the first hinge structure (250) than to the other side facing the first side. The first magnets (271, 272) may overlap at least partially with an inactive area arranged along an edge of the first display area (241) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. The first magnets (271, 272) may be arranged to face the second magnets (281, 282) when the first housing (210) is rotated and folded relative to the second housing (220) along the first folding axis (f1). For example, the second magnets (281, 282) may be arranged along the second hinge structure (260). For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the second magnets (281, 282) may be configured to maintain the electronic device (101) in the first folded state through a magnetic force with the first magnets (271, 272). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first display area (241) may be fastened to at least a portion of the second display area (242) through the magnetic force. By the magnetic force, the rotation of the first housing (210) relative to the second housing (220) within the first folded state may be limited.

[0069] According to one embodiment, a first side (211) of the first set of sides (201) of the first housing (210) can be configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display (240) within a plurality of folding states of the electronic device (101). For example, referring to FIGS. 2B and 2C , the first side (211) can face at least a portion of the flexible display (240) while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folding state to a second folding state among the plurality of folding states. The first side (211) may face at least a portion of the third display area (243) and / or at least a portion of the fifth display area (245) on the second hinge structure (260), for example, while the electronic device (101) changes from the first folding state to the second folding state or while the electronic device (101) changes from the second folding state to the first folding state. For example, referring to FIG. 2C, the first side (211) may face at least a portion of the fifth display area (245) of the flexible display (240) in the second folding state of the electronic device (101). For example, the first side (211) may be surrounded by at least a portion of the flexible display (240) in the second folding state. For example, the first side (211) may be a side facing the flexible display (240) among the first set of sides (201), the second set of sides (202), and the third set of sides (203) in the second folding state.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, while changing from an unfolded state to a first folded state, the first housing (210) can rotate with respect to the second housing (220) about a first folding axis (f1) via the first hinge structure (250). According to one embodiment, within the first folded state, the first housing (210) can face the second housing (220). For example, within the first folded state, the second display area (242) disposed on the second housing (220) can face the first display area (241) disposed on the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, within the first folded state, the first housing (210) can be disposed so as to be stacked on the second housing (220) with respect to the Y+ axis.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 2b and 2c, the third housing (230) can rotate about the second folding axis (f2) with respect to the second housing (220) through the second hinge structure (260). In the second folding state, the third housing (230) can face the first housing (210). For example, in the second folding state, the third display area (243) disposed in the third housing (230) can face the fourth side (210b) opposite to the first side (210a) of the first housing (210). The first side (211) of the first housing (210) can face the fifth display area (245). According to one embodiment, in the second folding state of the electronic device (101), when the electronic device (101) is viewed from the side (e.g., when viewed in the +y direction), the first housing (210) may be stacked over the second housing (220) with respect to the +z axis, and the third housing (230) may be stacked over the first housing (210). For example, in the second folding state, the first housing (210) may be placed over the second housing (220). In the second folding state, the third housing (230) may be placed over the first housing (210).

[0072] In one embodiment, when the second hinge cover (263) is viewed from above in the second folding state, the overlapping area of ​​the flexible display (240) and the second hinge structure (260) may be wider than the overlapping area of ​​the flexible display (240) and the first hinge structure (250) when the first hinge cover (253) is viewed from above. The second width (w2) of the second hinge cover (263) corresponding to the fifth display area (245) may be larger than the first width (w1) of the first hinge cover (253) corresponding to the fourth display area (244) (e.g., the fourth display area (244) of FIG. 2A). The difference between the first width (w1) and the second width (w2) may correspond to the thickness of the third housing (230). According to one embodiment, when a portion (e.g., the first side 211) of the first housing (210) is positioned to face the fifth display area (245) in the second folded state, the second width (w2) may be formed to a size that can be accommodated in a portion of a space formed when the third housing (230) is stacked on the first housing (210).

[0073] According to one embodiment, based on the difference between the first width (w1) and the second width (w2), the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) can be determined to be foldable first. For example, the first housing (210) can first rotate around the first folding axis (f1) with respect to the second housing (220). The third housing (230) can then rotate around the second folding axis (f2) with respect to the second housing (220) after the first housing (210) is folded. Since the width (w1) of the first hinge structure (250) is narrower than the width (w2) of the second hinge structure (260), the first housing (210) can be folded to face the second housing (220) first. As the width (w2) of the second hinge structure (260) is wider than the width (w1) of the first hinge structure (250), the third housing (230) can be folded to face the fourth side (210b) of the first housing (210) after the first housing (210) is folded.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the first set of side faces (201) may include a second side face (212) that contacts the first side face (211), and a third side face (213) that faces the second side face (212). A length (d2) of the second side face (212) and a length (d3) of the third side face (213) may each be shorter than a length (d1) of the first side face (211). For example, the first side face (211) may have a length corresponding to a major axis of the first housing (210). The second side face (212) and / or the third side face (213) that contact the first side face (211) may have a length corresponding to a minor axis of the first housing (210). For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state, at least some of the first set of side surfaces (201) may be surfaces that are gripped by a part of the user's body (e.g., a finger). When the first side surface (211) is a gripped surface, since the length (d1) of the first side surface (211) is greater than the length (d2) of the second side surface (212) and the length (d3) of the third side surface (213), it may not be easy to rotate the first housing (210) relative to the second housing (220) by the magnetic force between the first magnets (271, 272) and the second magnets (281, 282) within the first folded state. The electronic device (101) may require a structure for guiding a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user on the first set of side surfaces (201) including the first side surface (211) so that the electronic device (101) can be easily changed from the first folded state to the unfolded state by the user. The structure for guiding a state change of the electronic device (101) is described below in FIG. 3A.

[0075] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) can provide a flexible display (240) that can be folded at least once by including a plurality of hinge structures (250, 260). Through the widths of the different hinge structures (250, 260), the flexible display (240) can be folded multiple times.

[0076] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) including a first side (the first side (210a) of FIG. 2A) and a first set of side surfaces extending from the first side (210a) (e.g., the first set of side surfaces (201) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (220) including a second side (220a), a third housing (230) including a third side (230a), and a flexible display (240) disposed on the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first hinge structure (first hinge structure (250) of FIG. 2A) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a second hinge structure (260) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) that rotatably connects the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) face the same direction and a plurality of folded states in which at least one of the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) faces a different direction. The first set of side surfaces (201) may include a first side surface (211) configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display (240) within the plurality of folded states.

[0078] Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of the configurations described in FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 2c are omitted.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the first side (211) may include a pattern (310) including a plurality of protrusions (311). For example, the pattern (310) may form at least a portion of the first side (211). For example, the pattern (310) may be disposed on the first side (211). For example, the plurality of protrusions (311) may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the plurality of protrusions (311) may include a first protrusion (311a), a second protrusion (311b), and a third protrusion (311c) protruding from the first side (211). According to one embodiment, the first protrusion (311a), the second protrusion (311b), and the third protrusion (311c) may be spaced apart from each other by a specified interval. The first side (211) can increase a contact area for the flexible display (240) to be deformed by a user by including a pattern (310) including the plurality of protrusions (311). The first side (211) can be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folding state to an unfolding state by increasing the contact area.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may further include a deformable elastic member (320) that forms a plurality of protrusions (311) of the pattern (310). For example, the elastic member (320) may be attached to the first side (211). For example, the elastic member (320) may protrude from the first side (211). For example, while the electronic device (101) changes from the first folding state to the second folding state, the fifth display area (245) on the second hinge structure (260) may face the first side (211). In the second folding state, the fifth display area (245) may come into contact with the plurality of protrusions (311) in the pattern (310) by facing the first side (211). The above plurality of protrusions (311) are formed of a deformable elastic member (320), thereby supporting the fifth display area (245) that comes into contact with the plurality of protrusions (311) in the second folding state, and reducing damage to the fifth display area (245).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the pattern (310) of the first side (211) may further include a plurality of grooves (312) formed between a plurality of protrusions (311). For example, the plurality of protrusions (311) may be formed by a plurality of grooves (312) formed on the first side (211). For example, the protrusions (312a, 312b, 312c, 312d) may be formed by the grooves (312a, 312b, 312c) between the protrusions. For example, the pattern (310) may have a wave shape formed by the plurality of protrusions (311) and the plurality of grooves (312) between the plurality of protrusions (311). For example, the pattern (310) may include a plurality of crests formed by a plurality of protrusions (311) and a plurality of valleys formed by a plurality of grooves (312). For example, the plurality of protrusions (311) and the plurality of grooves (312) between the plurality of protrusions (311) may extend along the longitudinal direction of the first side (211). The first side (211) may include the pattern (310) including the plurality of protrusions (311) and the plurality of grooves (312) between the plurality of protrusions (311), thereby increasing the contact area for deforming the flexible display (240) by a user. The first side (211) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from the first folding state to the unfolding state by increasing the contact area.

[0082] Although the first side (211) is described as including the pattern (310), it is not limited thereto. The first housing (210) may include a pattern (310) including a plurality of protrusions (311) and / or a plurality of grooves for increasing a contact area on the second side (212) and / or the third side (213) that are in contact with the first side (211). The first housing (210) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including the pattern (310).

[0083] Although the pattern (310) is described as including a plurality of protrusions (311) and / or a plurality of grooves (312), it is not limited thereto. The pattern (310) may include various patterns for increasing the area of ​​at least a portion of the side surfaces (201) of the first set on which the pattern (310) is arranged. For example, the pattern (310) may have an irregular shape. The pattern (310) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by increasing the area of ​​at least a portion of the side surfaces (201) of the first set. In addition, although the pattern (310) is described as including a plurality of protrusions (311) and / or a plurality of grooves (312) according to one embodiment, it is not limited thereto. For example, the first set of side faces (201) may be replaced with various materials (e.g., elastic rubber, etc.) to increase the grip between a part of the user's body (e.g., a finger) and the pattern (310) so that the user can easily change the electronic device (101) from a plurality of folded states to an unfolded state.

[0084] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) can increase a contact area for the flexible display (240) to be deformed by a user by including a pattern (310) formed on a first side (211) of a first housing (210). The first side (211) can be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by increasing the contact area.

[0085] FIG. 4A illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0086] Fig. 4b is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second folded state taken along line A-A' of Fig. 2c. Fig. 4c is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second folded state taken along line B-B' of Fig. 2c. Fig. 4d is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device in a second folded state taken along line C-C' of Fig. 2c.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) including a first face (210a) and a first set of side faces extending from the first face (210a) (e.g., the first set of side faces (201) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (220) including a second face (220a), a third housing (230) including a third face (230a), and a flexible display (240) disposed on the first face (210a), the second face (220a), and the third face (230a). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first hinge structure (250) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) for rotatably connecting the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a second hinge structure (260) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) for rotatably connecting the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first face (210a), the second face (220a), and the third face (230a) face in the same direction, and a plurality of folded states in which at least one of the first face (210a), the second face (220a), and the third face (230a) faces in different directions. The first set of side faces (201) may include a pattern (310) including a plurality of protrusions (311), and may include a first side face (211) configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display (240) within the plurality of folding states.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may further include a first rib (411) protruding from one end (211a) of the first side (211) and / or a second rib (412) protruding from the other end (211b) of the first side (211) opposite to the one end (211a). According to one embodiment, the first rib (411) and / or the second rib (412) may be configured to separate the flexible display (240) from the first side (211) within a plurality of folding states by contacting the second hinge structure (260).

[0089] For example, one end (211a) of the first side (211) may be a portion where the first side (211) and the second side (212) come into contact. The other end (211b) of the first side (211) opposite to the one end (211a) may be a portion where the third side (e.g., the third side (213) of FIG. 2A) opposite to the first side (211) and the second side (212) come into contact. For example, the fifth region (245) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed on the second hinge structure (260). Both ends of the hinge structure (260) may be configured to face both ends (211a, 211b) of the first side (211) while the electronic device (101) changes from the first folding state to the second folding state. For example, the first rib (411) may extend from one end (211a) of the first side (211). The second rib (412) may extend from the other end (211b) of the first side (211) opposite the one end (211a). Since the first rib (411) and the second rib (412) each protrude from the first side (211), when the second side (212) is viewed from above, the first rib (411) may face the second rib (412). For example, during the change from the first folding state to the second folding state, one end of the second hinge structure (260) may be in contact with the first rib (411). The other end of the second hinge structure (260), opposite the one end, may be in contact with the second rib (412). Within the second folding state, the first rib (411) and the second rib (412) can support the second hinge structure (260). Since the first rib (411) and the second rib (412) support the second hinge structure (260), the fifth display area (245) on the second hinge structure (260) can be spaced apart from the first side (211).The first housing (210) includes the first rib (411) and the second rib (412), thereby reducing damage to the fifth display area (245) that is bent while changing from the first folding state to the second folding state.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the first side (211) may further include an inclined surface (211c) having an incline with respect to the first side (210a). For example, the inclined surface (211c) may be a portion of the first side (211) that is inclined to have an obtuse angle with respect to the first side (210a). For example, the inclined surface (211c) may be a portion of the first side (211) that is inclined to have an acute angle with respect to the fourth side (210b) that is opposite to the first side (210a). By including the inclined surface (211c), the first side (211) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) is changed from a first folded state to an unfolded state.

[0091] Although the first side (211) is described as having an inclined surface (211c), it is not limited thereto. The first housing (210) may include a plurality of inclined surfaces formed on at least some of the side surfaces (201) of the first set, and which are inclined at an obtuse angle with respect to the first side (210a). By including the inclined surfaces, the first housing (210) may be configured to assist a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (260) may include a support portion (265) that is exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) and configured to face the first side (211) within a plurality of folding states of the electronic device (101). The support portion (265) may be spaced apart from the first side (211) within a first folding state among the plurality of folding states. The support portion (265) may be in contact with the first side (211) within a second folding state among the plurality of folding states. For example, the support portion (265) may be a part of a second hinge cover of the second hinge structure (260) (e.g., the second hinge cover (263) of FIG. 2A). For example, the support portion (265) may be in contact with both ends of the fifth display area (245) of the flexible display (240). For example, the support portion (265) may include a first support portion (265a) formed at one end of the hinge structure (260), and a second support portion (265b) formed at the other end of the hinge structure (260) opposite to the one end. According to one embodiment, the first support portion (265a) may be configured to be in contact with one end (211a) of the first side (211) in the second folded state of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the second support portion (265b) may be configured to be in contact with the other end (211b) of the first side (211) in the second folded state. The second hinge structure (260) includes the support portion (265), thereby reducing damage to the fifth display area (245) on the second hinge structure (260) that is bent while changing from the first folding state to the second folding state.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (260) may include a third rib (421) configured to contact one end (211a) of the first side (211), and a fourth rib (422) configured to contact the other end (211b) of the first side (211) opposite the one end (211a). For example, the third rib (421) may protrude from the first support portion (265a) of the second hinge structure (260). The fourth rib (422) may protrude from the second support portion (265b) facing the first support portion (265a) of the second hinge structure (260). The third rib (421) and the fourth rib (422) may be configured to contact both ends (211a, 211b) of the first side (211) while the electronic device (101) changes from the first folding state to the second folding state. For example, in the second folding state, the third rib (421) may support one end (211a) of the first side (211). In the second folding state, the fourth rib (422) may support the other end (211b) of the first side (211). For example, when the first housing (210) includes the first rib (411) and the second rib (412), the third rib (421) may overlap the first rib (411) in the second folding state. In the second folding state, the fourth rib (422) may overlap the second rib (412). For example, when the first side (211) has an inclined surface (211c), each of the third rib (421) and the fourth rib (422) may have inclined surfaces having an angle corresponding to the inclined surface (211c). The second hinge structure (260) includes the third rib (421) and the fourth rib (422), thereby reducing damage to the fifth display area (245) on the second hinge structure (260) that is bent during the change from the first folding state to the second folding state.

[0094] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by a user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including an inclined surface (211c) formed on a first side (211) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) may reduce damage to the flexible display (240) that is deformed while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to a second folded state by including ribs (411, 412, 421, 422).

[0095] Figure 5a is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state. Figure 5b illustrates a portion of the exemplary electronic device.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B , the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) including a first surface (e.g., the first surface (210a) of FIG. 2A) and a first set of side surfaces extending from the first surface (210a) (e.g., the first set of side surfaces (201) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (220) including a second surface (e.g., the second surface (220a) of FIG. 2A), a third housing (230) including a third surface (e.g., the third surface (230a) of FIG. 2A), and a flexible display (240) disposed on the first surface (210a), the second surface (220a), and the third surface (230a). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first hinge structure (250) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a second hinge structure (260) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) that rotatably connects the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first face (210a), the second face (220a), and the third face (230a) face the same direction and a plurality of folded states in which at least one of the first face (210a), the second face (220a), and the third face (230a) faces a different direction. In one embodiment, the first set of side surfaces (201) may include a first side surface (211) that includes a pattern (310) including a plurality of protrusions (311) and is configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display (240) within the plurality of folded states.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may further include a first groove (510) formed on the first side (211). For example, the first groove (510) may be dented from the second side (211) toward the inner space of the first housing (210). For example, the first groove (510) may be positioned between patterns (310) formed on the first side (211). For example, the first groove (510) may be positioned between the first side (210a) and a fourth side (210b) opposite to the first side (210a). According to one embodiment, the pattern (310) including a plurality of protrusions (311) may be omitted. For example, if a pattern (310) is not formed on the first side (211), only a first groove (510) may be formed on the first side (211). However, this is not limited thereto.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 5A, according to one embodiment, the first groove (510) may be formed on at least a portion of the fourth surface (210b) of the first housing (210) and at least a portion of the first side surface (211). According to one embodiment, the first groove (510) may be opened toward the fourth surface (210b). For example, by forming the first groove (510) on at least a portion of the fourth surface (210b), the first housing (210) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by a user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state. Referring to FIG. 5B, according to one embodiment, the first groove (510) may be disposed between a first surface (e.g., the first surface (210a) of FIG. 2A) and a fourth surface (210b) opposite to the first surface (210a). Since the first groove (510) is disposed between the first surface (210a) and the fourth surface (210b), a part of the user's body (e.g., a finger) may be inserted into the first groove (510). Since the first groove (510) is disposed between the first surface (210a) and the fourth surface (210b), it may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state.

[0099] Although the electronic device (101) is described as including a first groove (510) formed on the first side (211), it is not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) may include a plurality of grooves formed on the first side (211) to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state.

[0100] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including a first groove (510) formed on the first side (211).

[0101] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B , the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) including a first surface (e.g., the first surface (210a) of FIG. 2A) and a first set of side surfaces extending from the first surface (210a) (e.g., the first set of side surfaces (201) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (220) including a second surface (e.g., the second surface (220a) of FIG. 2A), a third housing (230) including a third surface (e.g., the third surface (230a) of FIG. 2A), and a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 2A) disposed on the first surface (210a), the second surface (220a), and the third surface (230a). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (250) of FIG. 2A) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a second hinge structure (260) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) that rotatably connects the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first face (210a), the second face (220a), and the third face (230a) face the same direction and a plurality of folded states in which at least one of the first face (210a), the second face (220a), and the third face (230a) faces a different direction. In one embodiment, the first set of side surfaces (201) may include a first side surface (211) that includes a pattern (310) including a plurality of protrusions (311) and is configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display (240) within the plurality of folded states.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the first set of side surfaces (201) may include a second side surface (212) that is in contact with the first side surface (211). The first housing (210) may further include a second groove (610) formed in the second side surface (212). For example, the second groove (610) may be recessed from the second side surface (212) toward the interior space of the first housing (210). For example, at least a portion of the second groove (610) may face the flexible display (240) in the first folded state. For example, the second groove (610) may be formed in a portion of the first housing (210) where the first side surface (211) and the second side surface (212) are in contact (e.g., the first edge area (711) of FIG. 7B ). The first housing (210) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by the user while the electronic device (101) changes from the first folding state to the unfolding state by including the second home (610).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may further include a fourth side (221) facing the same direction as the second side (212) in the unfolded state, and a third groove (620) formed on the fourth side (221) and positioned to face at least a portion of the second groove (610). For example, the second groove (610) and the third groove (620) may be formed in a pair having similar sizes and shapes. For example, referring to FIG. 6B, the direction in which the fourth side (221) faces may be substantially the same as the direction in which the second side (212) faces in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101) and in the plurality of folded states. For example, the direction in which the fourth side (221) faces and the direction in which the second side (212) faces may be parallel to the direction in which the first folding axis (e.g., the first folding axis (f1) of FIG. 2A) faces. For example, the second side (212) may be positioned on the fourth side (221) within the first folding state.

[0105] For example, the third groove (620) may face the second groove (610) within the first folded state. For example, the third groove (620) may be recessed from the fourth side (221) toward the inner space of the second housing (220). For example, the second groove (610) and the third groove (630) may each have a hemispherical shape. Within the first folded state, the second groove (610) and the third groove (620) may have a spherical shape, thereby forming a structure in which a part of the user's body (e.g., a finger) can be easily inserted into the second groove (610) and the third groove (620). However, without being limited thereto, the second side (212) and the fourth side (221) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by a user while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including paired grooves.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the second side (212) and the fourth side (221) are described as including the second groove (610) and the third groove (620), respectively, but are not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) may include a plurality of grooves formed on a third side (e.g., the third side (213) of FIG. 2A) facing the second side (212) and / or a fifth side (e.g., the fifth side (222) of FIG. 2A) facing the fourth side (221). The electronic device (101) may be configured to guide a user to a state change of the electronic device (101) while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including the plurality of grooves formed on at least some of the second side (212), the third side (213), the fourth side (221), and the fifth side (222).

[0107] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be configured to guide a user to change the state of the electronic device (101) while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folding state to an unfolding state by including a second groove (610) and / or a third groove (620) formed on the second side (212) and / or the fourth side (221), respectively. The shape of the second groove (610) and / or the third groove (620) formed on the second side (212) and / or the fourth side (221), respectively, is not limited to the embodiment, and may have various shapes to assist the user's grip so that the user can easily change the electronic device (101) from a plurality of folding states to an unfolding state. For example, the second groove (610) and / or the third groove (620) may be omitted. When a pattern (e.g., pattern (310) of FIG. 3A) including a plurality of protrusions (e.g., a plurality of protrusions (311) of FIG. 3A) is arranged on the second side (212) and / or the fourth side (221) instead of the second groove (610) and / or the third groove (620), the electronic device (101) can be configured to allow the user to easily change the electronic device (101) from a plurality of folded states to an unfolded state through the pattern (310).

[0108] FIG. 7A illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first folded state. FIG. 7B is a plan view of the exemplary electronic device in the first folded state.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B , an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) including a first side (e.g., the first side (210a) of FIG. 2A) and a first set of side surfaces (201) extending from the first side (210a), a second housing (220) including a second side (e.g., the second side (220a) of FIG. 2A), a third housing (230) including a third side (e.g., the third side (230a) of FIG. 2A), and a flexible display (240) disposed on the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (250) of FIG. 2A) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a second hinge structure (260) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) that rotatably connects the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) face the same direction and a plurality of folded states in which at least one of the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) faces a different direction. The first set of side surfaces (201) may include a first side surface (211) that includes a pattern (310) including a plurality of protrusions (311) and is configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display (240) within the plurality of folded states.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include an edge region (710) where the first set of side surfaces (201) are connected to each other, and a hole (720) formed in the edge region (710). For example, the edge region (710) may be disposed along the first side surface (211). For example, the edge region (710) may be a region including both ends of the first side surface (211) (e.g., both ends (211a, 211b) of FIG. 4A). For example, the edge region (710) may include a first edge region (711) including an edge where the first side surface (211) and the second side surface (212) meet, and a second edge region (712) including an edge where the third side surface (213) facing the first side surface (211) and the second side surface (212) meet. For example, the edge area (710) may include an internal space of the first housing (210) formed by a corner of the first housing (210).

[0111] For example, the hole (720) may extend from the interior space of the first housing (210) within the edge region (710) to at least a portion of the first set of side surfaces (201). The first housing (210) may be configured to guide a user to a state change of the electronic device (101) while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including the hole (720).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a speaker (730) configured to output audio and disposed within an edge region (710) of the first housing (210), and a duct (740) connected from the speaker (730) to a hole (720) for the speaker (730). For example, the hole (720) may be a passage through which audio output from the speaker (730) is transmitted to the outside of the electronic device (101). Since the audio output from the speaker (730) is transmitted to the outside through the hole (720), the hole (720) may be referred to as a speaker hole of the electronic device (101). For example, the duct (740) may extend from a portion (e.g., a diaphragm) of the speaker (730) through which audio is output to the hole (720). The duct (740) may be a path through which the audio output from the speaker (730) is transmitted. For example, referring to FIG. 7B, the speaker (730) may be positioned within a first edge area (711) that includes at least a portion of the first side (211) and at least a portion of the second side (212). Since a hole (720) is formed in the second side (212) within the first edge area (711), the audio output from the speaker (730) may be transmitted to the outside through the duct (740) within the first edge area (711) and the hole (720). The electronic device (101) may be configured to guide a state change of the electronic device (101) by a user while the electronic device (101) is changed from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including the hole (720) that can function as a speaker hole.

[0113] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be configured to guide a user to a state change of the electronic device (101) while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folding state to an unfolding state by including the hole (720) that can function as a speaker hole.

[0114] Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a first folding state.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 8, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210) including a first side (e.g., the first side (210a) of FIG. 2A) and a first set of side surfaces extending from the first side (210a) (e.g., the first set of side surfaces (201) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (220) including a second side (e.g., the second side (220a) of FIG. 2A), a third housing (230) including a third side (e.g., the third side (230a) of FIG. 2A), and a flexible display (240) disposed on the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (250) of FIG. 2A) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a second hinge structure (260) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) that rotatably connects the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) face the same direction and a plurality of folded states in which at least one of the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) faces a different direction. The first set of side surfaces (201) may include a first side surface (211) that includes a pattern (310) including a plurality of protrusions (311) and is configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display (240) within the plurality of folded states. According to one embodiment, the first set of sides (201) may include a second side (212) that contacts the first side (211), and a third side (213) that faces the second side (212).The length of the second side (212) (e.g., d2 in FIG. 2b) and the length of the third side (213) (e.g., d3 in FIG. 2b) may each be shorter than the length of the first side (211) (e.g., d1 in FIG. 2b).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may further include at least one protruding structure (810) protruding from at least a portion of the first set of side surfaces (201). For example, the first housing (210) may include a first protruding structure (811) protruding from the second side surface (212) and a second protruding structure (812) protruding from the third side surface (213). For example, the first protruding structure (811) may protrude from the second side surface (212) and one end of the first side surface (211) (e.g., one end (211a) of FIG. 4A). For example, the second protruding structure (812) may protrude from the third side surface (213) and the other end of the first side surface (211) (e.g., the other end (211b) of FIG. 4A). For example, at least one protruding structure (810) may be formed within an edge region (e.g., the edge region (710) of FIGS. 7A and 7B). For example, the first protruding structure (811) may protrude from the fourth side (221) of the second housing (220) when the fourth side (210b) is viewed from above in the first folded state. For example, the second protruding structure (812) may protrude from the fifth side (222) of the second housing (220) when the fourth side (210b) is viewed from above in the first folded state. The first housing (210) may be configured to assist a user's grip while the electronic device (101) changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state by including the at least one protruding structure (810).

[0117] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be configured to assist the user's grip while the electronic device (101) changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including at least one protruding structure (810).

[0118] According to the above-described embodiment, a multi-foldable electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a first housing (e.g., first housing (210) of FIG. 2A) including a first surface (e.g., first surface (210a) of FIG. 2A) and a first side surface (e.g., first side surface (211) of FIG. 2A). The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second housing (e.g., second housing (220) of FIG. 2A) including a second surface (e.g., second surface (220a) of FIG. 2A) and rotatably coupled with the first housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a third housing (e.g., third housing (230) of FIG. 2A) including a third surface (e.g., third surface (230a) of FIG. 2A) and rotatably coupled with the second housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include the first surface, the second surface, and The flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 2A) may be disposed on the third surface and includes a first display area (e.g., the first display area (241) of FIG. 2A) disposed on the first surface, a second display area (e.g., the second display area (242) of FIG. 2A) disposed on the second surface, and a third display area (e.g., the third display area (243) of FIG. 2A) disposed on the third surface. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (250) of FIG. 2A) rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, and a second hinge structure (e.g., the second hinge structure (260) of FIG. 2A) rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing. The first hinge structure and the second hinge structure may be configured to be folded in an unfolded state and in a folded state with the first housing and the second housing. It may be configured to provide a plurality of folding states including a first folding state for folding the second housing and a second folding state for folding the second housing and the third housing.The width of the first hinge structure (e.g., the width (w1) of FIG. 2A) may be smaller than the width of the second hinge structure (e.g., the width (w2) of FIG. 2A). The first side may include a pattern (e.g., the pattern (310) of FIG. 3A) including a plurality of protrusions (e.g., the plurality of protrusions (311) of FIG. 3A). According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first side may be configured to assist a user's grip while the electronic device changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including a pattern including the plurality of protrusions. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the pattern may further include a plurality of grooves (e.g., a plurality of grooves (312) of FIG. 3B) formed between the plurality of protrusions. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the pattern may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state by including the plurality of grooves between the plurality of protrusions. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a first rib (e.g., the first rib (411) of FIG. 4A) protruding from one end of the first side (e.g., the end (211a) of FIG. 4A), and a second rib (e.g., the second rib (412) of FIG. 4A) protruding from the other end of the first side opposite to the one end (e.g., the other end (211b) of FIG. 4A). The first rib and the second rib may be configured to separate the flexible display from the first side within the plurality of folding states by contacting the second hinge structure. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may reduce breakage of the flexible display by including the first rib and the second rib. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure may include a support portion (e.g., support portion 265 of FIG. 4A) that is exposed to the outside of the multi-foldable electronic device and configured to face the first side within the plurality of folding states. The support portion may be spaced apart from the first side within the first folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side and the third side face a first direction and the first side faces a second direction opposite to the first direction. The support portion may be brought into contact with the first side within the second folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side faces the first direction and the first side and the third side face a second direction opposite to the first direction. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the second hinge structure may reduce breakage of the flexible display by including the support portion. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the first side may further include an inclined surface (e.g., the inclined surface 211c of FIG. 4A) having an incline with respect to the first side. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first side may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including the inclined surface. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a first groove formed on the first side (e.g., the first groove (510) of FIG. 5A). According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state by including the first groove. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects, including the above-mentioned effects.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a second side (e.g., the second side (212) of FIG. 2A) that is in contact with the first side and a third side (e.g., the third side (213) of FIG. 2A) that is in contact with the first side and faces the second side. The length of the second side (e.g., d2 of FIG. 2B) and the length of the third side (e.g., d3 of FIG. 2B) may each be shorter than the length of the first side (e.g., d1 of FIG. 2B). According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may be configured such that the length of the first side is longer than the length of the second side and the length of the third side, thereby assisting the user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a first protruding structure protruding from the second side (e.g., the first protruding structure (811) of FIG. 8) and a second protruding structure protruding from the third side (e.g., the second protruding structure (812) of FIG. 8). According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state by including the first protruding structure and the second protruding structure. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a second side that is in contact with the first side. The first housing may further include a second groove (e.g., the second groove (610) of FIG. 6A) formed on the second side. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state by including the second groove. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the second housing may further include a fourth side (e.g., the fourth side (221) of FIG. 2A) facing the same direction as the second side faces in the unfolded state, and a third groove (e.g., the third groove (620) of FIG. 6A) formed on the fourth side and paired with the second groove. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the multi-foldable electronic device may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state by including the second groove and the third groove. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the flexible display may include a deformable fourth display area (e.g., the fourth display area (244) of FIG. 2A) on the first hinge structure (250), and a deformable fifth display area (e.g., the fifth display area (245) of FIG. 2A) on the second hinge structure. The first display area may face the second display area in the first folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side and the third side face a first direction and the first side faces a second direction opposite to the first direction. The fifth display area may face the first side in the second folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side faces the first direction and the first side and the third side face a second direction opposite to the first direction. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the multi-foldable electronic device can provide a variety of user experiences to the user by being configured such that the first display area faces the second display area in the first folding state and the fifth display area faces the first side in the second folding state. The above-mentioned embodiment can have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include an edge region (e.g., edge region (710) of FIG. 7A) including both ends of the first side, and a hole (e.g., hole (720) of FIG. 7A) formed in the edge region. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state by including the hole formed in the edge region. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the multi-foldable electronic device may further include a speaker (e.g., speaker (730) of FIG. 7B) disposed within the edge region of the first housing and configured to output audio, and a duct (e.g., duct (740) of FIG. 7B) connected from the speaker to the hole for the speaker. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may be configured to include the hole formed in the edge region, thereby assisting a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from the first folded state to the unfolded state. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure may include a third rib (e.g., the third rib (421) of FIG. 4A) configured to contact one end of the first side, and a fourth rib (e.g., the fourth rib (422) of FIG. 4A) configured to contact the other end opposite the one end of the first side. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the second hinge structure may reduce breakage of the flexible display by including the third rib and the fourth rib. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a deformable elastic member (e.g., the elastic member (320) of FIG. 3A) that forms the plurality of protrusions. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may reduce breakage of the flexible display by including the elastic member. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects, including the effects mentioned above.

[0133] In one embodiment, a multi-foldable electronic device may include a first housing including a first surface and side surfaces extending from the first surface, a second housing including a second surface, a third housing including a third surface, and a flexible display disposed on the first surface, the second surface, and the third surface. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge structure between the first housing and the second housing that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing, and a second hinge structure between the second housing and the third housing that rotatably connects the second housing and the third housing. The first hinge structure and the second hinge structure may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first surface, the second surface, and the third surface face the same direction, and a plurality of folded states in which at least one of the first surface, the second surface, and the third surface faces a different direction. The side surfaces may include a pattern including a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of grooves between the plurality of protrusions, and an inclined surface having an incline with respect to the first surface, and a first side configured to face at least a portion of the flexible display within the plurality of folding states. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first side may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from a first folding state to an unfolding state by including the plurality of protrusions, the pattern including the plurality of grooves, and the inclined surface. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include a first rib protruding from one end of the first side, and a second rib protruding from the other end of the first side opposite to the one end. The first rib and the second rib may be configured to separate the flexible display from the first side within the plurality of folding states by contacting the second hinge structure. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may reduce breakage of the flexible display by including the first rib and the second rib. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure may include a supporting portion that is exposed to the outside of the multi-foldable electronic device and configured to face the first side within the plurality of folding states. The supporting portion may be spaced apart from the first side within a first folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side and the third side face a first direction and the first side faces a second direction opposite to the first direction. The supporting portion may be brought into contact with the first side within a second folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side faces the first direction and the first side and the third side face a second direction opposite to the first direction. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the second hinge structure may reduce breakage of the flexible display by including the supporting portion. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the first housing may further include an edge region where the sides are connected to each other, a hole formed in the edge region, a speaker positioned within the edge region and configured to output audio, and a duct connected from the speaker to the hole for the speaker. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may be configured to assist a user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state by including the hole formed in the edge region. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the side surfaces may further include a second side that is in contact with the first side, and a third side that is in contact with the first side and faces the second side. The length of the second side and the length of the third side may each be shorter than the length of the first side. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first housing may be configured such that the length of the first side is longer than the length of the second side and the length of the third side, thereby assisting the user's grip while the multi-foldable electronic device changes from a first folded state to an unfolded state. The above-mentioned embodiment may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

[0138] 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, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0139] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. 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" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "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.

[0140] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0141] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0143] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In a multi-foldable electronic device (101), A first housing (210) including a first surface (210a) and a first side surface (211); A second housing (220) including a second surface (220a) and rotatably coupled to the first housing (210); A third housing (230) including a third surface (230a) and rotatably coupled to the second housing (220); A flexible display (240) including a first display area (241) arranged on the first surface (210a), a second display area (242) arranged on the second surface (220a), and a third display area (243) arranged on the third surface (230a); A first hinge structure (250) that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (220); and A second hinge structure (260) that rotatably connects the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) is included; The above first hinge structure (250) and the above second hinge structure (260) are, It is configured to provide a plurality of folding states including an unfolding state, a first folding state folding the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a second folding state folding the second housing (220) and the third housing (230), The width (w1) of the above first hinge structure (250) is Smaller than the width (w2) of the second hinge structure (260), The above first side (211) is, A pattern (310) comprising a plurality of protrusions (311), Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

2. In paragraph 1, The above pattern (310) is Further comprising a plurality of grooves (312) formed between the plurality of protrusions (311); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above first housing (210) is, A first rib (411) protruding from one end (211a) of the first side (211); and It further includes a second rib (412) protruding from the other end (211b) opposite to the one end (211a) of the first side (211); The above first rib (411) and the above second rib (412) are, By coming into contact with the second hinge structure (260), the flexible display (240) is configured to be separated from the first side (211) within the plurality of folding states. Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above second hinge structure (260) is A support portion (265) is exposed to the outside of the multi-foldable electronic device (101) and is configured to face the first side (211) within the plurality of folding states. The above support part (265) is, In the first folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side (220a) and the third side (230a) face a first direction and the first side (210a) faces a second direction opposite to the first direction, spaced from the first side (211), In the second folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side (220a) faces the first direction and the first side (210a) and the third side (230a) face the second direction opposite to the first direction, the first side (211) is in contact with the second side, Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above first side (211) is, Further including an inclined surface (211c) having an incline with respect to the first surface (210a); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above first housing (210) is, Further comprising a first groove (510) formed on the first side (211); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above first housing (210) is, A second side (212) in contact with the first side (211); and Further comprising a third side (213) that is in contact with the first side (211) and faces the second side (212); The length (d2) of the second side (212) and the length (d3) of the third side (213) are Each of which is shorter than the length (d1) of the first side (211), Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above first housing (210) is, A first protruding structure (811) protruding from the second side (212); and Further comprising a second protruding structure (812) protruding from the third side (213); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above first housing (210) is, A second side (212) in contact with the first side (211); and Further comprising a second groove (610) formed on the second side (212); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above second housing (220) is, A fourth side (221) facing the same direction as the second side (212) in the unfolded state in which the first side (210a), the second side (220a), and the third side (230a) face the same direction; and Further comprising a third groove (620) formed on the fourth side (221) and paired with the second groove (610); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above flexible display (240) is A deformable fourth display area (244) on the first hinge structure (250); and Including a fifth deformable display area (245) on the second hinge structure (260); The above first display area (241) is In the first folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side (220a) and the third side (230a) face a first direction and the first side (210a) faces a second direction opposite to the first direction, facing the second display area (242), The above fifth display area (245) is In the second folding state among the plurality of folding states in which the second side (220a) faces the first direction and the first side (210a) and the third side (230a) face the second direction opposite to the first direction, facing the first side (211), Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above first housing (210) is, An edge region (710) including both ends (211a, 211b) of the first side (211); and Further including a hole (720) formed in the edge area (710); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, A speaker (730) arranged within the edge area (710) of the first housing (210) and configured to output audio; and Further comprising a duct (740) connected from the speaker (730) to the hole (720) for the speaker (730); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above second hinge structure (260) is A third rib (421) configured to be in contact with one end (211a) of the first side (211); and A fourth rib (422) configured to be in contact with the other end (211b) opposite to the one end (211a) of the first side (211); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The above first housing (210) is, Further comprising a plurality of protrusions (311) and a deformable elastic member (320); Multi-foldable electronic device (101).

Images