Foldable device including connection member for battery

Abstract

This electronic device may comprise: a first housing; a second housing; a hinge structure which is rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing; a display in the second housing; a battery in the second housing; a PCB in the second housing, the PCB including a first surface facing the display, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface extending from the edge of the first surface to the edge of the second surface; and an FPCB which connects the battery and the PCB to each other. The FPCB may include: a first portion which is connected to the battery and positioned farther away from the display than from the second surface of the PCB; a second portion which is connected to the first surface of the PCB; and a third portion which extends from the first portion below the second surface of the PCB to the second portion on the first surface of the PCB. The third portion may include a section bent with respect to the side surface of the PCB. Various other embodiments are also possible.

Description

Foldable device including a battery connection member

[0001] The descriptions below relate to foldable devices that include a battery connection member.

[0002] Electronic devices, such as smartphones, can provide one or more functions related to communication, entertainment, productivity, and various applications. In addition to providing these functions, electronic devices also consider miniaturization and portability. Electronic devices being developed with this in mind may include, for example, foldable electronic devices.

[0003] An electronic device, including a foldable electronic device, may include a battery that provides power necessary for operation. The battery of the electronic device may be connected to a connecting member, such as a flexible printed circuit board (e.g., connected to one or more components of the electronic device, such as the printed circuit board).

[0004] 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 in connection with the present disclosure.

[0005] An electronic device according to one embodiment may include a first housing, a second housing, a hinge structure rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing, a display disposed in the second housing, a battery disposed within the second housing, a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within the second housing and including a first side facing the display, a second side opposite the first side, and a side extending from an edge of the first side to an edge of the second side, and a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) connecting the battery and the PCB. The FPCB may include a first portion connected to the battery and positioned farther from the display than the second side of the PCB, a second portion connected to the first side of the PCB, and a third portion extending from the first portion below the second side of the PCB to the second portion on the first side of the PCB. The third portion may include a section bent about a side surface of the PCB.

[0006] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing, a hinge structure, a first display, a second display, a battery within the second housing, a printed circuit board (PCB) within the second housing, and a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The second housing may include a side wall. The hinge structure may be rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing. The first display may be disposed in a space provided by the first housing and the second housing. The first display may include a first part aligned with the first housing, a second part aligned with the second housing, and a folding part extending from the first part to the second part so as to be aligned with the hinge structure. The second display may be disposed in the second housing opposite the second part of the first display. The battery may be positioned between the second part and the second display. The PCB may be partially surrounded by the side wall. The FPCB may connect the battery to the PCB. The FPCB may include a first portion positioned closer to the second part than the PCB and connected to the battery, a second portion disposed on a first surface of the PCB facing the second display, and a third portion extending from the first portion to the second portion. The third portion may include a first section passing through a space between the PCB and a portion of the side wall and bent about a side surface of the PCB.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0008] FIG. 2A illustrates an example of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2b illustrates an example of a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3A is an exploded view of a first housing of an exemplary electronic device, according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3b is an exploded view of a second housing of an exemplary electronic device, according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary battery according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0014] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of Fig. 5.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0016] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of Fig. 7.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to 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)).

[0018] The processor (120) may control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)), and may perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculation, the processor (120) may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the command or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store the resulting 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 a secondary 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 therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0019] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part 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.

[0020] 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).

[0021] 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).

[0022] 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).

[0023] 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. According to one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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).

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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).

[0029] A 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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).

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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, Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) 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).

[0034] 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) may 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.

[0035] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). According to 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). According to 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 by, for example, 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 selected at least one antenna. According to 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).

[0036] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to 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.

[0037] 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)).

[0038] 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 by 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 one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using 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.

[0039] FIG. 2A illustrates an example of an unfolded state (e.g., an open state) of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2B illustrates an example of a folded state (e.g., a bent or closed state) of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, an electronic device (200) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a display (230) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1), at least one camera (240) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1), and a hinge structure (250).

[0041] In one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (200). At least a portion of the exterior surface of the electronic device (200) defined by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may come into contact with a portion of the user's body when the electronic device (200) is used by the user. According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first surface (211), a second surface (212) facing the first surface (211) and spaced apart from the first surface (211), and a first side surface (213) surrounding at least a portion of the first surface (211) and the second surface (212). The first side surface (213) may connect a periphery of the first surface (211) and a periphery of the second surface (212). The first surface (211), the second surface (212), and the first side surface (213) may define an internal space of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may provide a space formed by the first surface (211), the second surface (212), and the first side surface (213) as a space for arranging components of the electronic device (200).

[0042] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a third face (221), a fourth face (222) facing the third face (221) and spaced apart from the third face (221), and a second side (223) surrounding at least a portion of the third face (221) and the fourth face (222). The second side (223) may connect a periphery of the third face (221) and a periphery of the fourth face (222). The third face (221), the fourth face (222), and the second side (223) may define an interior space of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may provide a space formed by the third side (221), the fourth side (222), and the second side (223) surrounding at least a portion of the third side (221) and the fourth side (222) as a space for mounting or arranging components of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be coupled to the first housing (210) so as to be rotatable with respect to the first housing (210).

[0043] According to one embodiment, each of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may include a first protective member (214) and a second protective member (224), respectively. The first protective member (214) and the second protective member (224) may be disposed on the first side (211) and the third side (221) along the periphery of the display (230). According to one embodiment, the first protective member (214) and the second protective member (224) may prevent foreign substances (e.g., dust or moisture) from entering through the gap between the display (230) and the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). For example, the first protective member (214) may surround the edge of the first display area (231) of the display (230), and the second protective member (224) may surround the edge of the second display area (232) of the display (230). The first protective member (214) may be formed by being attached to the first side (213) of the first housing (210), or may be formed integrally with the first side (213). The second protective member (224) may be formed by being attached to the second side (223) of the second housing (220), or may be formed integrally with the second side (223).

[0044] According to one embodiment, the first side (213) and the second side (223) may include a conductive material, a non-conductive material, or a combination thereof. For example, the second side (223) may include at least one conductive member (225) and at least one non-conductive member (226). The at least one conductive member (225) may include a plurality of conductive members that are each spaced apart from each other. The at least one non-conductive member (226) may be disposed between the plurality of conductive members. The plurality of conductive members may be isolated from each other by the at least one non-conductive member (226) disposed between the plurality of conductive members. According to one embodiment, the plurality of conductive members and the plurality of non-conductive members may together form an antenna radiator. The electronic device (200) may transmit and receive a wireless signal for communicating with an external electronic device through the antenna radiator formed by the plurality of conductive members and the plurality of non-conductive members.

[0045] The display (230) may be configured to display visual information. According to one embodiment, the display (230) may be disposed on a first surface (211) of the first housing (210) and a third surface (221) of the second housing (220) across the hinge structure (250). For example, the display (230) may include a first display area (231) disposed on the first surface (211) of the first housing, a second display area (232) disposed on the third surface (221) of the second housing, and a third display area (233) disposed between the first display area (231) and the second display area (232). In the examples cited herein, the display (230) may be referred to as a flexible display and may also be referred to as a foldable display (i.e., the display (230) may be foldable or bendable, for example, based on a folding line). The first display area (231), the second display area (232), and the third display area (233) may be referred to as a first part (or a first flat part), a second part (or a second flat part), and a folding part.

[0046] The first display area (231), the second display area (232), and the third display area (233) may form the front surface of the display (230) (e.g., in an unfolded state). According to one embodiment, the display (230) may further include a sub-display panel (235) (e.g., forming or including a display or sub-display) disposed on the fourth side (222) (e.g., an outer surface) of the second housing (220). For example, the sub-display panel (235) may include an external display (e.g., a sub-display provided or displayed on the outer surface of the second housing).

[0047] According to one embodiment, the display (230) may include a window exposed toward the outside of the electronic device (200). The window may protect the surface of the display (230) and may include a substantially transparent material to transmit visual information provided by the display (230) to the outside of the electronic device (200). For example, the window may include, but is not limited to, glass (e.g., UTG, ultra-thin glass) and / or polymer (e.g., PI, polyimide). In one embodiment, the window of the sub-display panel (235) may be surrounded by a bracket of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second front bracket (227) or the second rear bracket (228) of FIG. 3B) or may be disposed on the bracket. In one embodiment, the second rear bracket of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second rear bracket (228) of FIG. 3B) may be understood to include the window of the sub-display panel (235).

[0048] At least one camera (240) may be configured to acquire an image based on receiving light from a subject external to the electronic device (200). According to one embodiment, the at least one camera (240) may include first cameras (241), second cameras (242), and third cameras (243). The first cameras (241) may be disposed in the first housing (210). For example, the first cameras (241) may be disposed inside the first housing (210) and at least a portion of the first cameras (241) may be visible through the second side (212) of the first housing (210). The first cameras (241) may be supported by a bracket (not shown) within the first housing (210). The first housing (210) may include at least one opening (241a) that overlaps the first cameras (241) when viewed from above on the second side (212). The first cameras (241) may acquire an image based on receiving light from the outside of the electronic device (200) through the at least one opening (241a).

[0049] According to one embodiment, the second camera (242) may be disposed in the second housing (220). For example, the second camera (242) may be disposed inside the second housing (220) and may be visible through the sub-display panel (235). The second housing (220) may include at least one opening (242a) that overlaps the second camera (242) when the fourth surface (222) is viewed from above. The second camera (242) may acquire an image based on receiving light from the outside of the electronic device (200) through the at least one opening (242a).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the third camera (243) may be disposed in the first housing (210). For example, the third camera (243) may be disposed inside the first housing (210) and at least a portion thereof may be visible through the first surface (211) of the first housing (210). As another example, the third camera (243) may be disposed inside the first housing (210) and at least a portion thereof may be visible through the first display area (231) of the display (230). The first display area (231) of the display (230) may include at least one opening (not shown) that overlaps the third camera (243) when the display (230) is viewed from above. The third camera (243) may acquire an image based on receiving light from the outside of the display (230) through the at least one opening.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) may be positioned below the display (230) (e.g., toward the inside of the first housing (210) or the inside of the second housing (220). For example, the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) may be under-display cameras (UDCs). When the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) are under-display cameras, an area of ​​the display (230) corresponding to the positions of the second camera (242) and the third camera (243), respectively, may not be an inactive area. For example, when the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) are under-display cameras, an area of ​​the display (230) corresponding to the respective positions of the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) may have a lower pixel density than the pixel density of other areas of the display (230). The inactive area of ​​the display (230) may mean an area of ​​the display (230) that does not include pixels or does not emit light to the outside of the electronic device (200). As another example, the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) may be punch-hole cameras. When the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) are punch-hole cameras, an area of ​​the display (230) corresponding to the respective positions of the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) may be an inactive area. For example, if the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) are punch hole cameras, an area of ​​the display (230) corresponding to the positions of each of the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) may include an opening that does not include pixels.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (250) can rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The hinge structure (250) can be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) of the electronic device (101) so that the electronic device (200) can be bent, curved, or folded. For example, the hinge structure (250) can be disposed between a portion of the first side (213) and a portion of the second side (223) that face each other. The hinge structure (250) can change the electronic device (200) into an unfolding state in which the first surface (211) of the first housing (210) and the third surface (221) of the second housing (220) are facing in substantially the same direction, or into a folding state in which the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) face each other. When the electronic device (200) is in a folding state, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be overlapped to face each other.

[0053] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the direction in which the first side (211) faces and the direction in which the third side (221) faces may be different from each other. For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the direction in which the first side (211) faces and the direction in which the third side (221) faces may be opposite to each other. For another example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the direction in which the first side (211) faces and the direction in which the third side (221) faces may be inclined with respect to each other. When the direction in which the first side (211) faces is inclined with respect to the direction in which the third side (221) faces, the first housing (210) may be inclined with respect to the second housing (220).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be foldable with respect to a folding axis (f). The folding axis (f) may refer to, but is not limited to, an imaginary line extending through the hinge cover (251) in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction (e.g., direction (d1)) of the electronic device (200) (e.g., direction (d1)). For example, unlike the illustration, the electronic device (200) may also be foldable with respect to an axis parallel to the width direction (e.g., direction (d2)). In this case, the folding axis (f) may be an imaginary line extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (200) (e.g., direction (d2) of FIGS. 2A and 2B). When the folding axis (f) extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (200), the hinge structure (250) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (f) to connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be rotatable by the hinge structure (250) extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (200).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (250) may include a hinge cover (251). The hinge cover (251) may surround internal components of the hinge structure (250) and form an outer surface of the hinge structure (250). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (251) surrounding the hinge structure (250) may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (200) through a space between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state. According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (251) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and may not be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (200).

[0056] Meanwhile, in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the electronic device (200) is illustrated as a device that operates in an infold (e.g., folded inward) manner in which the display (230) is not visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (200) within the folded state of the electronic device (200), but is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (200) may operate in an outfold (e.g., folded outward) manner in which the display (230) is visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (200) within the folded state of the electronic device (200). For example, when the electronic device (200) is an outfoldable device, the first display area (231), the second display area (232), and the third display area (233) of the display (230) may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (200) within the folded state of the electronic device (200). For another example, the electronic device (200) may operate in an in-and-out manner that allows both the out-fold manner and the in-fold manner. For another example, the electronic device (200) may further include a third housing (not shown) that is rotatably connected to the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). In this case, the electronic device (200) may further include another hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure (250)) that rotatably connects the third housing to the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The other hinge structure may be configured in an in-fold manner, an out-fold manner, or an in-and-out manner, similar to the above-described manner.

[0057] FIG. 3A is an exploded view of a first housing of an exemplary electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3B is an exploded view of a second housing of an exemplary electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, according to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first front bracket (215) and a first rear bracket (216), and the second housing (220) may include a second front bracket (227) and a second rear bracket (228). The first front bracket (215) and the first rear bracket (216) may support components of the electronic device (200). The first front bracket (215) may be coupled with the first rear bracket (216) to define the first housing (210). The first rear bracket (216) may define a portion of an outer surface of the first housing (210). The second front bracket (227) may be coupled with the second rear bracket (228) to define the second housing (220). The second rear bracket (228) may define a portion of the outer surface of the second housing (220). The second front bracket (227) and the second rear bracket (228) may support components of the electronic device (200). For example, a display (e.g., display (230) of FIG. 2A) may be disposed on one side of the first front bracket (215) and one side of the second front bracket (227). The first rear bracket (216) may be disposed on the other side of the first front bracket (215) opposite the one side of the first front bracket (215). The second rear bracket (228) may be disposed on the other side of the second front bracket (227) opposite the one side of the second front bracket (227). The sub display panel (235) can be placed between the second front bracket (227) and the second rear bracket (228).

[0059] In one embodiment, a portion of the first front bracket (215) may be surrounded by the first side (213), and a portion of the second front bracket (227) may be surrounded by the second side (223). For example, the first front bracket (215) may be formed integrally with the first side (213), and the second front bracket (227) may be formed integrally with the second side (223). In another example, the first front bracket (215) may be formed separately from the first side (213), and the second front bracket (227) may be formed separately from the second side (223).

[0060] In one embodiment, the first rear bracket (216) may be coupled to the first front bracket (215) or may be formed integrally with the first front bracket (215). In one embodiment, the second rear bracket (228) may be coupled to the second front bracket (227) or may be formed integrally with the second front bracket (227).

[0061] An electronic device (200) according to an embodiment may include a printed circuit board (261) (e.g., a first printed circuit board), a printed circuit board (262) (e.g., a second printed circuit board), a flexible printed circuit board (263), a cover (269), batteries (264, 266) (e.g., the battery (189) of FIG. 1), and an antenna (265) (e.g., the antenna module (197) of FIG. 1). The printed circuit board (261) and the printed circuit board (262) may each form electrical connections between components within the electronic device (200). For example, components for implementing the overall function of the electronic device (200) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) may be arranged on the printed circuit board (261), and electronic components for implementing some functions of the printed circuit board (261) may be arranged on the printed circuit board (262). As another example, components for the operation of the sub-display panel (235) may be placed on a printed circuit board (262).

[0062] According to one embodiment, a printed circuit board (261) may be disposed within a first housing (210). For example, the printed circuit board (261) (e.g., the first printed circuit board) may be disposed on one surface of a first front bracket (215). According to one embodiment, a printed circuit board (262) (e.g., the second printed circuit board) may be disposed within a second housing (220). For example, the printed circuit board (262) may be spaced apart from the printed circuit board (261) and disposed on one surface of the second front bracket (227). A flexible printed circuit board (263) may connect the printed circuit board (261) and the printed circuit board (262). For example, the flexible printed circuit board (263) may extend from the printed circuit board (261) to the printed circuit board (262).

[0063] A cover (269) may be placed on a printed circuit board (262). The cover (269) may be positioned between the printed circuit board (262) and the sub-display panel (235) (or the second rear bracket (228). The cover (269) may protect various components placed on the printed circuit board (262). The cover (269) may prevent connectors (e.g., the second portion (432) of FIG. 6) coupled to the printed circuit board (262) from being detached. The cover (269) may partially support the sub-display panel (235).

[0064] Batteries (264, 266) are devices for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device (200), and may include, for example, rechargeable secondary batteries or fuel cells. The battery (264) may be disposed within the first housing (210). The battery (266) may be disposed within the second housing (220). For example, the battery (266) may be at least partially accommodated within a recess (229) formed on the above-described surface of the second front bracket (227). For stability during use, the recess (229) may have a larger volume than the battery (266). At least a portion of the battery (264) and / or the battery (266) may be disposed substantially on the same plane as the printed circuit board (261) and / or the printed circuit board (262).

[0065] The antenna (265) may be configured to receive power or a signal from outside the electronic device (200). According to one embodiment, the antenna (265) may be disposed between the first rear bracket (216) and the battery (264). The antenna (265) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, an antenna module, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna (265) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0066] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary battery according to an embodiment. Referring to FIG. 4, a battery (266) according to an embodiment may include a cell (410), a substrate (420) having a circuit formed thereon that is electrically connected to the cell (410), a connecting member (430) bonded to the substrate (420) to connect the circuit on the substrate (420) to another component (e.g., a printed circuit board (262) of FIG. 3B), and a protective member (440) (e.g., a non-conductive film) surrounding the substrate (420) to protect the circuit of the substrate (420). The circuit formed on the substrate (420) may include a battery protection circuit. The substrate (420) having the circuit formed thereon may be referred to as a protection circuit module (PCM). The substrate (420) may include, but is not limited to, a rigid printed circuit board.

[0067] In one embodiment, the connecting member (430) may include a first portion (431), a second portion (432), and a third portion (433). The first portion (431) may be connected to the battery (266). For example, the first portion (431) may be connected to the battery (266) via the substrate (420). The first portion (431) may extend from the substrate (420). The second portion (432) may be spaced apart from the first portion (431). The third portion (433) may connect the first portion (431) to the second portion (432). The third portion (433) may extend from the first portion (431) to the second portion (432).

[0068] In any of the detailed examples described herein (e.g., with reference to any of FIGS. 1-8), the connecting member (430) may comprise a flexible printed circuit board that is at least partially bendable. That is, at least a portion or section of the connecting member (430) (e.g., the flexible printed circuit board) may be bent and / or curved. In one embodiment, the substrate (420) and the connecting member (430) may be formed integrally. However, the examples of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0069] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of FIG. 7. In the detailed examples below, reference may be made to the electronic devices described in the detailed drawings above (e.g., FIGS. 1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, and 4), and features described with the same reference numerals may correspond similarly.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the hinge structure (250) may include a first hinge plate (252), a second hinge plate (253), and a hinge module (254). The first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) may be coupled to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), respectively, thereby rotatably connecting the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). For example, the first hinge plate (252) may be coupled to the first front bracket (215) of the first housing (210), and the second hinge plate (253) may be coupled to the second front bracket (227) of the second housing (220). As the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) are coupled to the first front bracket (215) and the second front bracket (227), respectively, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be rotated according to the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253).

[0071] In one embodiment, the hinge module (254) can rotate the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253). For example, the hinge module (254) can include a bracket and a first hinge arm and a second hinge arm rotatably disposed on the bracket. The rotation of the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm can be coupled through intermeshing gears. The first hinge arm can be connected to the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge arm can be connected to the second hinge plate (253). The hinge module (254) can include a cam structure and / or a spring configured to provide rotational resistance to the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm so as to maintain the folded angle of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). However, the mechanism of the hinge structure (250) for rotating the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) is not limited to the above-described example, and various design modifications may be possible.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (250) may include a plurality of hinge assemblies. Each of the plurality of hinge assemblies may include a hinge module (254), a first hinge plate (252), and a second hinge plate (253). As illustrated, one hinge assembly may be disposed on the upper side of the flexible printed circuit board (263), and two hinge assemblies may be disposed on the lower side, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0073] Within the unfolded state, an imaginary line segment parallel to the folding axis (f) may pass through the connecting member (430) and the second hinge plate (253). Within the unfolded state, when the second housing (220) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the z-axis direction), the connecting member (430) may not overlap the second hinge plate (253) and the hinge module (254). Here, “overlapping” only means that at least a portion of a component is positioned within (or at least partially within) the boundary of another component when projected from a specific point of view (e.g., a viewing angle), and unless otherwise specified, it is not construed that they are physically in contact or spaced apart.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 6 along with FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the second front bracket (227) may include a side wall (520) extending in the thickness direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the second housing (220). A portion of the side wall (520) may form a second side surface (223) of the second housing (220). A remaining portion of the side wall (520) may face the hinge structure (250).

[0075] In one embodiment, the hinge structure (250) may further include a first wing plate (255) and a second wing plate (not shown). The second wing plate may be formed symmetrically with respect to the first wing plate (255) with respect to the folding axis (f). The first wing plate (255) may be rotated by the hinge module (254). The first wing plate (255) may be linked to the rotation of the second hinge plate (253). However, the rotation paths and / or rotation axes of the first wing plate (255) and the second hinge plate (253) may be different. The first wing plate (255) may support the folding part (233) of the display (230) in the unfolded state. When changing from an unfolded state to a folded state, the first wing plate (255) can be rotated by the hinge module (254) to deform the folding part (233) so as to correspond to the angle at which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded. Alternatively or optionally, when changing from an unfolded state to a folded state, the first wing plate (255) can be rotated so as not to contact the folding part (233) so as not to damage the display (230). In one embodiment, in the unfolded state, the connecting member (430) can be located (e.g., positioned or arranged) between the first wing plate (255) and the sub-display panel (235). For example, in the unfolded state, the connecting member can be arranged between the first wing plate (255) and the sub-display panel (235) with respect to the Z-axis (or thickness) direction.

[0076] In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (262) can include a first side (262A) facing the sub-display panel (235), a second side (262B) opposite the first side (262A), and a side surface (262C) extending from an edge of the first side (262A) to an edge of the second side (262B). In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (262) can be partially surrounded by a side wall (520). For example, at least a portion of the printed circuit board (262) can be surrounded by the side wall (520). For example, the side surface (262C) of the printed circuit board (262) can be partially surrounded by the side wall (520).

[0077] In one embodiment, a side surface (262C) of the printed circuit board (262) may include a first region (A1) facing (or facing toward) the hinge structure (250) and a second region (A2) extending from the first region (A1) and facing in a different direction than the first region (A1). In one embodiment, the printed circuit board (262) may be located (e.g., positioned or arranged) in a first direction (e.g., +y direction) of the battery (266), and the second region (A2) may face the first direction.

[0078] In one embodiment, a first portion (e.g., a first portion (431) of the connecting member (430) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board)) may be positioned further from the sub-display panel (235) than the second side (262B) of the printed circuit board (262). For example, the first portion (431) may be positioned below (e.g., in the -z direction) the second side (262B) of the printed circuit board (262). That is, for example, the first portion (431) of the connecting member (430) may be positioned below the printed circuit board (262) (here, in the -Z direction, i.e., below the thickness direction) such that the printed circuit board (262) is closer to the sub-display panel (235). That is, the printed circuit board (262) may be positioned or arranged between the sub-display panel (235) and the first portion (431) of the connecting member (430). The first portion (431) may be positioned or arranged closer to the display (230) (e.g., at least a portion of the display (230)) than the second side (262B) of the printed circuit board (262). The first portion (431) may not overlap the printed circuit board (262) (e.g., may be positioned or located so as not to overlap). For example, the first portion (431) may be positioned or located so as not to overlap the printed circuit board (262) when viewed from above (in the -z direction).

[0079] In one embodiment, the second portion (432) of the connecting member (430) may be connected (e.g., configured to be connected) to a first side (262A) of the printed circuit board (262). For example, the electronic device (200) may include a connector (632) (e.g., a receptacle) disposed on the first side (262A) of the printed circuit board (262). The second portion (432) of the connecting member (430) may include a mating connector (e.g., a plug) coupled to the connector (632). In one embodiment, a cover (269) may be disposed on the first side (262A) of the printed circuit board (262) to cover the second portion (432) of the connecting member (430). The cover (269) can prevent the second part (432) from being separated (e.g., detached) from the connector (632).

[0080] In one embodiment, the third portion (433) of the connecting member (430) may include (or comprise) a first section (S1), a second section (S2), and a third section (S3). In one embodiment, the first section (S1) may extend from the second section (S2) to the second portion (432). The second section (S2) may extend below (e.g., in the -z direction) the printed circuit board (262). The second section (S2) may extend from the third section (S3) to the first section (S1). The third section (S3) may not overlap the printed circuit board (262) when the second housing (220) is viewed from above (e.g., in the z-axis direction).

[0081] In one embodiment, the first section (S1) may be bent about a side surface (262C) of the printed circuit board (262). For example, the first section (S1) may pass through a space between the side surface (262C) of the printed circuit board (262) and a side wall (520) of the second housing (220). The first section (S1) may be bent so as to be convex toward the side wall (520).

[0082] In one embodiment, the battery (266) may be positioned to be movable within a recess (e.g., recess (229) of FIG. 3B) of the second front bracket (227) for stability. If the connection member (430) does not absorb the flow of the battery (266), the connection member (430) may detach from the battery (266) and / or the printed circuit board (262). In one embodiment, the connection member (430) may not extend directly from the battery (266) to the connector (632), but may extend from below the second side (262B) of the printed circuit board (262) around the side (262C) to the first side (262A), such as the third portion (433). Accordingly, a sufficient length value (e.g., the length or distance of the connection member (430)) to absorb the flow of the battery (266) may be secured. For example, the battery (266) may be capable of flowing within the recess in the first direction (e.g., +y direction) and / or in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., -y direction). In order to absorb the flow of the battery (266) in the first direction and / or the second direction, the direction in which the third portion (433) extends may include at least a component in the first direction. For example, in other words, the third portion (433) may extend at least in the first direction (e.g., at least in the y direction), or may have at least a component or dimension in the first direction.

[0083] In a comparative example, referring also to FIG. 4, unlike the illustration, the third portion (433) may be extended by bending from the first portion (431) so as to pass over the substrate (420). In this case, a length value for absorbing the flow of the battery (266) may be secured, but the connecting member (430) may protrude further in the thickness direction than the cell (410) (i.e., may extend further outward in the thickness direction of the electronic device, for example, in the Z direction, than the cell). The protruding connecting member (430) may contact the sub-display panel (235), thereby causing a seam or damaging the sub-display panel (235). On the other hand, for example, referring again to the present disclosure, such problems may not occur because the connecting member (430) according to one embodiment extends from below the second side (262B) of the printed circuit board (262) around the side (262C) to the first side (262A).

[0084] In a comparative example, referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, unlike the illustration, the second section (S2) may not extend under the printed circuit board (262), but may extend directly from the third section (S3) to the first surface (262A) of the printed circuit board (262). In this case, the first section (S1) extended from the second section (S2) may be bent between the printed circuit board (262) and the cover (269). At this time, the cover (269) may be lifted due to the reaction force of the bent first section (S1). Since the first section (S1) must be bent with a large curvature in the narrow space between the printed circuit board (262) and the cover (269), the reaction force acting on the cover (269) may be greater. As the cover (269) is lifted, the connector coupled to the first surface (262A) of the printed circuit board (262) may be easily detached. In contrast, for example, referring back to the present disclosure, the connecting member (430) according to one embodiment may not bend between the cover (269) and the printed circuit board (262), but rather bends around the side surface (262C) of the printed circuit board (262), thereby preventing these problems from occurring.

[0085] Also, in the comparative example, when the first section (S1) is bent between the printed circuit board (262) and the cover (269), it may be difficult for the first section (S1) to bend at an accurate position. This may be because there is no structure guiding the bending of the first section (S1). In contrast, for example, referring back to the present disclosure, since the connecting member (430) according to one embodiment is bent around the side surface (262C) of the printed circuit board (262), the printed circuit board (262) itself can guide the bending of the connecting member (430). Accordingly, quality deviations depending on the process can be reduced.

[0086] In one embodiment, the first section (S1) can be bent about the first area (A1) of the side (262C) (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6).

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the first section (S1) can be bent around the second area (A2) of the side (262C). That is, the features and descriptions of FIGS. 7 and 8 can correspond to the features and descriptions of FIGS. 5 and 6 as described above, and for the sake of brevity, the corresponding features cited herein are referred to.

[0088] However, unlike the examples of FIGS. 7 and 8, the first section (S1) may be bent around the second area (A2), and the second area (A2) may be an area of ​​the side surface (262C) facing the first direction (e.g., +y). That is, unlike the examples of FIGS. 5 and 6, compared to FIGS. 7 and 8, the first section (S1) may be bent around another area (e.g., an area facing in a different direction) of the side surface (262C) of the printed circuit board (262).

[0089] In an additional example, although not shown, the first section (S1) may be bent around another area of ​​the side (262C) other than the first area (A1) and the second area (A2).

[0090] An electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) according to one embodiment includes a first housing (e.g., a first housing (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (e.g., a second housing (220) of FIG. 2A), a hinge structure rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing (e.g., a hinge structure (250) of FIG. 2A), a display disposed in the second housing (e.g., a sub-display panel (235) of FIG. 2A), a battery disposed within the second housing (e.g., a battery (266) of FIG. 3), a first surface disposed within the second housing and facing the display (e.g., a first surface (262A) of FIG. 6), a second surface opposite to the first surface (e.g., a second surface (262B) of FIG. 6), and a side surface extending from an edge of the first surface to an edge of the second surface (e.g., a side surface (262C) of FIG. 6). It may include a printed circuit board (PCB) (e.g., a printed circuit board (262) of FIG. 6), and a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (e.g., a connecting member (430) of FIG. 6) connecting the battery and the PCB. The FPCB may include a first portion (e.g., a first portion (431) of FIG. 4) connected to the battery and positioned further from the display than the second surface of the PCB, a second portion (e.g., a second portion (432) of FIG. 4) connected to the first surface of the PCB, and a third portion (e.g., a third portion (433) of FIG. 4) extending from the first portion below the second surface of the PCB to the second portion on the first surface of the PCB. The third portion may include a section (e.g., a first section (S1) of FIG. 6) bent around a side surface of the PCB. Accordingly, the display may be prevented from being damaged by the FPCB. In addition, since the PCB provides a guide for bending the FPCB, quality deviation due to process deviation can be reduced.

[0091] In one embodiment, the side of the PCB may include a first region (e.g., the first region (A1) of FIG. 6) facing the hinge structure. The section of the third portion may be bent about the first region.

[0092] In one embodiment, the side surface of the PCB may include a first region facing the hinge structure (e.g., a first region (A1) of FIG. 7) and a second region extending from the first region and facing in a different direction from the first region (e.g., a second region (A2) of FIG. 7). The bent section of the third portion may be bent about the second region.

[0093] In one embodiment, the PCB may be in a first direction of the battery. The second region of the side may face the first direction.

[0094] In one embodiment, the third portion of the FPCB may include a section extending below the PCB (e.g., the second section (S2) of FIG. 6).

[0095] In one embodiment, the section bent around the side of the PCB may be a first section, and the section extending below the PCB may be a second section. The first section may extend from the second section to the second portion.

[0096] In one embodiment, the third portion of the FPCB may include a third section (e.g., the third section (S3) of FIG. 5) extending from the first portion to the second section. The third section may not overlap the PCB.

[0097] In one embodiment, the battery may be arranged to be movable within the second housing in a first direction or a second direction opposite to the first direction. The PCB may be in the first direction from the battery. The direction in which the third section extends may include a component in the first direction.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a cover (e.g., cover (269) of FIG. 6) disposed on the first surface of the PCB so as to cover the second portion of the FPCB. Accordingly, the cover may be prevented from being lifted due to the repulsive force of the FPCB, and the second portion may be prevented from being separated from the first surface of the PCB due to the cover being lifted.

[0099] In one embodiment, the cover can support the display.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a flexible display (e.g., a display (230) of FIG. 2A) extending from the first housing across the hinge structure to the second housing. The flexible display may include a first part (e.g., a first part (231) of FIG. 2A) disposed on the first housing, a second part (e.g., a second part (232) of FIG. 2A) disposed on the second housing, and a folding part (e.g., a folding part (233) of FIG. 2A) between the first part and the second part. The second part may form a front side of the second housing (e.g., a third side (221) of FIG. 2A), and the display may form a back side of the second housing opposite the front side (e.g., a fourth side (222) of FIG. 2A).

[0101] In one embodiment, the hinge structure may include a hinge plate (e.g., the second hinge plate (253) of FIG. 5) connected to the second housing and configured to rotate the second housing, and a wing plate (e.g., the first wing plate (255) of FIG. 6) linked to the rotation of the hinge plate. The hinge structure may be variable between an unfolded state and a folded state, wherein the unfolded state may be a state in which the first part and the second part of the flexible display face the same direction, and the folded state may be a state in which the first part and the second part face different directions. In the unfolded state, the wing plate may support the folding part of the flexible display in the unfolded state, and the FPCB may be positioned between the wing plate and the display.

[0102] In one embodiment, the first housing can rotate about a folding axis (e.g., folding axis (f) of FIG. 2A) relative to the second housing. When viewed from above the flexible display in the unfolded state, the FPCB does not overlap the hinge plate, and an imaginary line parallel to the folding axis can pass through the hinge plate and the FPCB.

[0103] The electronic device according to one embodiment may include a connector (e.g., connector (632) of FIG. 6) disposed on the first surface of the PCB. The second portion of the FPCB may include a mating connector coupled to the connector.

[0104] In one embodiment, the battery may include a cell (e.g., cell (410) of FIG. 4), a protection circuit electrically connected to the cell, and a substrate (e.g., substrate (420) of FIG. 4) on which the protection circuit is disposed. The first portion of the FPCB may be connected to the substrate.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2A) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2A), a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (250) of FIG. 2A), a first display (e.g., the display (230) of FIG. 2A), a second display (e.g., the sub-display panel (235) of FIG. 2A), a battery within the second housing (e.g., the battery (266) of FIG. 3B), a PCB within the second housing (e.g., the printed circuit board (262) of FIG. 3B), and an FPCB (e.g., the connecting member (430) of FIG. 4). The second housing may include a side wall (e.g., the side wall (520) of FIG. 5). The hinge structure may be rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing. The first display may be arranged in a space provided by the first housing and the second housing. The first display may include a first part aligned with the first housing (e.g., the first part (231) of FIG. 2A), a second part aligned with the second housing (e.g., the second part (232) of FIG. 2A), and a folding part extending from the first part to the second part so as to be aligned with the hinge structure (e.g., the folding part (233) of FIG. 2A). The second display may be arranged in the second housing opposite the second part of the first display. The battery may be positioned between the second part and the second display. The PCB may be partially surrounded by the sidewall. The FPCB may connect the battery to the PCB.The FPCB may include a first portion (e.g., the first portion (431) of FIG. 4) positioned closer to the second part than the PCB and connected to the battery, a second portion (e.g., the second portion (432) of FIG. 4) disposed on a first surface of the PCB facing the second display (e.g., the first surface (262A) of FIG. 6), and a third portion (e.g., the third portion (433) of FIG. 4) extending from the first portion to the second portion. The third portion may include a first section (e.g., the first section (S1) of FIG. 6) passing through a space between the PCB and a portion of the side wall and bent about a side surface of the PCB (e.g., the side surface (262C) of FIG. 6).

[0106] In one embodiment, the third portion of the FPCB may include a second section extending below the PCB (e.g., the second section (S2) of FIG. 6). The first section may extend from the second section to the second portion.

[0107] In one embodiment, the third portion of the FPCB may include a third section (e.g., the third section (S3) of FIG. 5) extending from the first portion to the second section. The third section may not overlap the PCB.

[0108] In one embodiment, a portion of the side wall may be positioned between the hinge structure and the first section.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a cover (e.g., cover (269) of FIG. 6) disposed between the PCB and the first display to cover the second portion of the FPCB, and a connector (e.g., connector (632) of FIG. 6) disposed on the first surface of the PCB. The second portion of the FPCB may include a mating connector coupled to the connector.

[0110] Specific examples of the present disclosure, with reference to the detailed examples described above by way of illustration, may include one or more of the following:

[0111] According to a first example, an electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge structure rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing, a display (e.g., a sub-display) disposed in the second housing (e.g., disposed or arranged on an outer surface of the second housing), a battery disposed within the second housing, a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within the second housing and including a first side facing the display, a second side opposite the first side, and a side extending from an edge of the first side to an edge of the second side, and a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (e.g., a connecting member) connecting the battery and the PCB. The FPCB includes a first portion connected to the battery and positioned farther from the display than the second side of the PCB (e.g., below the second side of the PCB), a second portion connected to the first side of the PCB, and a third portion extending from the first portion below the second side of the PCB to the second portion on the first side of the PCB. The third portion includes a section that is bent around a side of the PCB.

[0112] In a second example, an electronic device according to the first example is provided, wherein a side surface of the PCB includes a first region facing the hinge structure, and the section of the third portion is bent around the first region.

[0113] In a third example, an electronic device according to the first example is provided, wherein the side surface of the PCB includes a first region facing the hinge structure and a second region extending from the first region and facing in a different direction from the first region, and the bent section of the third portion is bent around the second region.

[0114] In a fourth example, an electronic device according to the third example is provided, wherein the PCB is in a first direction of the battery, and a second area of ​​the side faces the first direction.

[0115] In a fifth example, an electronic device according to any one of examples 1 to 4 is provided, wherein the third portion of the FPCB includes a section extending below the PCB.

[0116] In a sixth example, an electronic device according to the fifth example is provided, wherein a section bent around the side surface of the PCB is a first section, a section extending below the PCB is a second section, and the first section extends from the second section to the second part.

[0117] In a seventh example, an electronic device according to the sixth example is provided, wherein the third portion of the FPCB includes a third section extending from the first portion to the second section, and the third section does not overlap the PCB.

[0118] In an eighth example, an electronic device according to the seventh example is provided, wherein the battery is arranged to be movable in a first direction or a second direction opposite to the first direction within the second housing, the PCB is in the first direction from the battery, and a direction in which the third section extends includes a component in the first direction.

[0119] In a ninth example, an electronic device according to any one of examples 1 to 8 is provided, comprising a cover disposed on the first surface of the PCB so as to cover the second portion of the FPCB.

[0120] In a tenth example, an electronic device according to the ninth example is provided, wherein the cover can support the display.

[0121] In an eleventh example, an electronic device according to examples 1 to 10 is provided, which includes a flexible display extending from the first housing across the hinge structure to the second housing, the flexible display including a first part disposed on the first housing, a second part disposed on the second housing, and a folding part between the first part and the second part, the second part forming a front side of the second housing, and the display forming a back side of the second housing opposite the front side.

[0122] In a twelfth example, an electronic device according to the eleventh example is provided, wherein the hinge structure includes a hinge plate connected to the second housing and configured to rotate the second housing, and a wing plate linked to the rotation of the hinge plate, wherein the hinge structure is variable between an unfolded state and a folded state, wherein the unfolded state is a state in which the first part and the second part of the flexible display face the same direction, and the folded state is a state in which the first part and the second part face different directions, and in the unfolded state, the wing plate supports the folding part of the flexible display in the unfolded state, and the FPCB is positioned between the wing plate and the display.

[0123] In a 13th example, an electronic device according to the 12th example is provided, wherein the first housing rotates about a folding axis with respect to the second housing, and when viewed from above the flexible display in the unfolded state, the FPCB does not overlap the hinge plate, and an imaginary line parallel to the folding axis passes through the hinge plate and the FPCB.

[0124] In a fourteenth example, an electronic device of any one of examples 1 to 13 is provided, comprising a connector disposed on the first surface of the PCB, and wherein the second portion of the FPCB comprises a mating connector coupled to the connector.

[0125] In a fifteenth example, an electronic device of any one of examples 1 to 14 is provided, wherein the battery includes a cell, a protection circuit electrically connected to the cell, and a substrate on which the protection circuit is disposed, and wherein the first portion of the FPCB is connected to the substrate.

[0126] In a sixteenth example, an electronic device is provided, comprising: a first housing; a second housing including side walls; a hinge structure rotatably coupled to the first housing and the second housing; a first display disposed in a space provided by the first housing and the second housing, wherein the first display includes a first part aligned with the first housing, a second part aligned with the second housing, and a folding part extending from the first part to the second part so as to be aligned with the hinge structure; a second display disposed in the second housing so as to be opposite the second part of the first display; a battery disposed within the second housing and positioned between the second part and the second display; a PCB within the second housing partially surrounded by the side walls; and an FPCB connecting the battery to the PCB, wherein the FPCB includes a first part positioned closer to the second part than the PCB and connected to the battery; a second part disposed on a first side of the PCB facing the second display; and a third portion extending from the first portion to the second portion; wherein the third portion includes a first section passing through a space between the PCB and a portion of the side wall and bent about a side surface of the PCB.

[0127] In a 17th example, an electronic device according to the 16th example is provided, wherein the third portion of the FPCB includes a second section extending below the PCB, and the first section extends from the second section to the second portion.

[0128] In the 18th example, an electronic device according to the 17th example is provided, wherein the third portion of the FPCB includes a third section extending from the first portion to the second section, and the third section does not overlap the PCB.

[0129] In the 19th example, an electronic device according to any one of the 16th to 18th examples is provided, wherein a portion of the side wall is positioned between the hinge structure and the first section.

[0130] In a 20th example, an electronic device according to any one of examples 16 to 18 is provided, comprising: a cover disposed between the PCB and the first display so as to cover the second portion of the FPCB; and a connector disposed on the first surface of the PCB; wherein the second portion of the FPCB includes a mating connector coupled to the connector.

[0131] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this document pertains.

[0132] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0133] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments disclosed in this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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).

[0136] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more commands 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 command among the one or more commands 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 command called. The one or more commands 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.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed in the present 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.

[0138] 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 electronic devices, 1st housing; Second Housing; A hinge structure rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing; A display disposed in the second housing; A battery disposed within the second housing; A printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within the second housing and including a first side facing the display, a second side opposite the first side, and a side extending from an edge of the first side to an edge of the second side; and Including a connecting member arranged to connect the above battery and the PCB, The above connecting member is, A first portion positioned below the second surface of the PCB and connected to the battery; a second portion connected to the first side of the PCB; and A third portion extending from the first portion to the second portion on the first surface of the PCB, The third part includes a section that is bent around the side of the PCB. Electronic devices.

2. In claim 1, The side of the PCB includes a first region facing the hinge structure, The above section of the above third part is bent around the above first area, Electronic devices.

3. In claim 1, The side surface of the PCB includes a first region facing the hinge structure and a second region extending from the first region and facing in a different direction from the first region, The curved section of the third section is curved around the second area. Electronic devices.

4. In claim 3, The above PCB is placed in the first direction of the battery, The second region of the above side faces the first direction, Electronic devices.

5. In any one of claims 1 to 4, The third portion of the above connecting member comprises a section extending below the PCB, Electronic devices.

6. In claim 5, The section that is bent around the above side of the above PCB is the first section, The extended section below the above PCB is the second section, The above first section extends from the above second section to the above second part, Electronic devices.

7. In claim 6, The third portion of the connecting member comprises a third section extending from the first portion to the second section, The third section above does not overlap the PCB, Electronic devices.

8. In claim 7, The battery is arranged so as to be movable in a first direction or a second direction opposite to the first direction within the second housing, The above PCB is arranged in the first direction from the above battery, The direction in which the third section is extended includes a component of the first direction. Electronic devices.

9. In any one of claims 1 to 8, Including a cover disposed on the first surface of the PCB to cover the second portion of the connecting member, The above cover is positioned to support the above display, Electronic devices.

10. In any one of claims 1 to 9, A flexible display extending from the first housing across the hinge structure to the second housing, The flexible display comprises a first part disposed on the first housing, a second part disposed on the second housing, and a folding part between the first part and the second part. The above second part forms the front of the second housing, The above display forms a rear surface opposite to the front surface of the second housing, Electronic devices.

11. In claim 10, The above hinge structure is, a hinge plate connected to the second housing and configured to rotate the second housing; and A wing plate, which is linked to the rotation of the hinge plate, is included; The above hinge structure is variable between the unfolded state and the folded state, The above unfolded state is a state in which the first part and the second part of the flexible display face the same direction, The above folded state is a state in which the first part and the second part face different directions, In the unfolded state above: The above wing plate supports the folding part of the flexible display in the unfolded state, The above connecting member is located between the wing plate and the display. Electronic devices.

12. In claim 11, The above first housing rotates about the folding axis with respect to the above second housing, When viewed from above the flexible display within the unfolded state: The above connecting member does not overlap the hinge plate, An imaginary line parallel to the above folding axis passes through the hinge plate and the connecting member, Electronic devices.

13. In any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a connector arranged on the first surface of the PCB; The second portion of the connecting member comprises a mating connector coupled to the connector; Electronic devices.

14. In any one of claims 1 to 13, The above battery: cell; a protection circuit electrically connected to said cell; and A substrate having the above protection circuit arranged thereon; The first part of the above connecting member is connected to the substrate, Electronic devices.

15. In any one of claims 1 to 14, the connecting member is a flexible printed circuit board. Electronic devices.

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