Foldable electronic device and method for providing image of foldable electronic device

Abstract

A foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention comprises a camera module, a second housing, a first housing coupled to a first side of the second housing to be foldable, a third housing coupled to a second side of the second housing to be foldable, a first hinge member for coupling the first housing and the second housing, a second hinge member for coupling the second housing and the third housing, a flexible display, a first sensor configured to sense a first angle between the second housing and the first housing, a second sensor configured to sense a second angle between the second housing and the third housing, a memory for storing at least one executable instruction, and at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to: determine, on the basis of the first angle sensed by the first sensor or the second angle sensed by the second sensor, folding or unfolding of the second housing and the first housing, or folding or unfolding of the second housing and the third housing; in a first state in which the first housing and the third housing are folded with respect to the second housing, acquire a first image photographed through the camera module and store the first image in the memory; in a second state in which the first housing is folded with respect to the second housing, acquire a second image photographed through the camera module and store the second image in the memory; and, upon execution of a specified application in the first state, preferentially display the first image on the flexible display.

Description

Foldable electronic device and method for providing an image of the foldable electronic device

[0001] Various embodiments of the present invention disclose a foldable electronic device and a method of providing at least one image using the foldable electronic device.

[0002] The use of foldable electronic devices that fold and unfold in either a horizontal or vertical direction is increasing, and various functions are being provided in foldable electronic devices.

[0003] The above foldable electronic device may include a camera module to take pictures or videos or provide services such as video calling.

[0004] For example, the foldable electronic device may include at least one camera module disposed on the front and at least one camera module disposed on the rear.

[0005] The above camera module may include an image sensor of the charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) type. The foldable electronic device may provide a user with at least one image acquired through the image sensor.

[0006] The foldable electronic device can be implemented in a multi-foldable form including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing.

[0007] The above foldable electronic device (e.g., a multi-foldable electronic device) may include a display (e.g., a flexible display) disposed at least partially across the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing.

[0008] The above foldable electronic device can display an image captured by at least one camera module on a display.

[0009] The above foldable electronic device can store images captured through at least one camera module in memory, sort the images stored in the memory in the same order as the capture time and file name according to a user's selection, and then display the images on a display.

[0010] For example, the foldable electronic device may store a first image captured through the camera module in a state where the first housing and the second housing are folded relative to the second housing, a second image captured through the camera module in a state where the first housing is folded relative to the second housing, and a third image captured through the camera module in a state where the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing are unfolded, in a memory regardless of the size and / or ratio, and display them on the display in the order of the capture time and file name.

[0011] In the above case, the foldable electronic device can display images captured in the folded and / or unfolded states of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing on the display without considering the size and / or ratio.

[0012] Various embodiments of the present invention can provide a foldable electronic device and method that can provide images captured in a folded and / or unfolded state of a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing of the foldable electronic device, respectively, preferentially or sequentially according to a state of the foldable electronic device currently being used by a user.

[0013] The technical problems to be achieved in the present disclosure are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0014] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a flexible display including a camera module, a second housing, a first housing foldably coupled to a first side of the second housing, a third housing foldably coupled to a second side of the second housing, a first hinge member coupled between the first housing and the second housing, a second hinge member coupled between the second housing and the third housing, a first display area disposed in the first housing, a second display area disposed in the second housing, and a third display area disposed in the third housing.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device may include a first sensor configured to sense a first angle between the second housing and the first housing and a second sensor configured to sense a second angle between the second housing and the third housing.

[0016] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device may include a memory storing at least one executable instruction, and at least one processor configured to access the memory and execute the at least one instruction.

[0017] According to one embodiment, at least one processor can determine (e.g., confirm) folding and unfolding of the second housing and the first housing or folding and unfolding of the second housing and the third housing based on the first angle sensed by the first sensor or the second angle sensed by the second sensor.

[0018] According to one embodiment, at least one processor can acquire a first image captured through the camera module in a first state in which the first housing and the third housing are folded relative to the second housing, and store the first image in the memory.

[0019] According to one embodiment, at least one processor can acquire a second image captured through the camera module in a second state in which the first housing is folded relative to the second housing and store the second image in the memory.

[0020] According to one embodiment, at least one processor may be configured to, in the first state, preferentially display the first image on the flexible display when the specified application is executed.

[0021] A method for providing an image using a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an operation of detecting, by at least one processor, that a camera module is triggered. According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of determining whether the foldable electronic device for capturing an image through the camera module is in a first state, a second state, or a third state. According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of storing a first image captured through the camera module in a memory when the foldable electronic device is in the first state. According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of storing a second image captured through the camera module in the memory when the foldable electronic device is in the second state. According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of preferentially displaying the first image on a flexible display when a specified application is executed in the first state.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the method for providing an image of the foldable electronic device can be performed using a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing one or more programs.

[0023] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the images captured in the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing of the foldable electronic device in the folded and / or unfolded states, respectively, may be provided preferentially or sequentially according to the state of the foldable electronic device (e.g., the first state, the second state, and / or the third state) that the user is currently using.

[0024] In addition, various effects may be provided, either directly or indirectly, through this document.

[0025] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state viewed from the front according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 2b is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state viewed from the rear according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing showing a state in which a first housing of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is folded relative to a second housing.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a schematic drawing showing a state in which the first housing and the third housing of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention are folded relative to the second housing.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating images captured according to a state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display according to a first state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display according to a second state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display according to a third state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 10 is a drawing schematically illustrating a first image displayed when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is in a first state.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating a second image displayed when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is in a second state.

[0038] FIG. 12 is a drawing schematically illustrating a third image displayed when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is in a third state.

[0039] FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention executes a designated application in a first state.

[0040] FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention executes a designated application in a second state.

[0041] FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention executes a designated application in a third state.

[0042] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing an image using a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). 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)).

[0045] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or 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.

[0046] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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).

[0049] 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).

[0050] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0051] 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. In 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.

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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).

[0056] 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. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0059] 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.

[0060] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0061] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0062] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas 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 through the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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)).

[0065] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0066] FIG. 2a is a schematic drawing of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state viewed from the front according to various embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 2b is a schematic drawing of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state viewed from the rear according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0067] According to various embodiments, the embodiments of the electronic device (101) disclosed in FIG. 1 may be included in the embodiments of the foldable electronic device (200) disclosed in FIGS. 2A and 2B. For example, the foldable electronic device (200) disclosed in FIGS. 2A and 2B may include the processor (120), the memory (130), the input module (150), the audio output module (155), the display module (160), the audio module (170), the sensor module (176), the interface (177), the connection terminal (178), the haptic module (179), the camera module (180), the antenna module (197), and / or the subscriber identification module (196) disclosed in FIG. 1.

[0068] According to one embodiment, various embodiments of the present disclosure are described with respect to a foldable electronic device (200), but are not limited thereto, and can be substantially equally applied to a foldable electronic device that is folded once, a multi-foldable electronic device, an electronic device of a rollable type, or an electronic device of a sliding type.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a foldable electronic device (200) according to various embodiments of the present invention may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), a first hinge member (201), a second hinge member (202), and / or a flexible display (240).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) can be foldably coupled to a first side (e.g., in the x-axis direction) of the second housing (220). The first hinge member (201) can be coupled between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The first hinge member (201) can be arranged such that the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be folded or unfolded with respect to each other. The first hinge member (201) can include a hinge device, a hinge module, a hinge plate, or a hinge assembly. The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be rotatably coupled about a first folding axis (A1) using the first hinge member (201). For example, the first housing (210) can be folded forward (e.g., in the z-axis direction) or backward (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) with respect to the second housing (220) using the first hinge member (201).

[0071] According to various embodiments, the second housing (220) may be foldably coupled to one side (e.g., in the -x-axis direction) of the first housing (210). The second housing (220) may be operatively coupled at a first side (e.g., in the x-axis direction) with at least a portion of the first housing (210) and at a second side (e.g., in the -x-axis direction) with at least a portion of the third housing (230).

[0072] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) can be foldably coupled to a second side (e.g., in the -x-axis direction) of the second housing (220). The second hinge member (202) can be coupled between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The second hinge member (202) can be arranged such that the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) can be folded or unfolded relative to each other. The second hinge member (202) can include a hinge device, a hinge module, a hinge plate, or a hinge assembly. The second housing (220) and the third housing (230) can be rotatably coupled about a second folding axis (A2) using the second hinge member (202). For example, the third housing (230) may be folded forward (e.g., in the z-axis direction) or backward (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) with respect to the second housing (220) using the second hinge member (202). According to various embodiments, one side (e.g., in the x-axis direction) of the third housing (230) may be foldably coupled to a second side (e.g., in the -x-axis direction) of the second housing (220).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may be configured to recognize as a normal folding order a case in which the first housing (210) is folded first relative to the second housing (220) via the first hinge member (201), and the third housing (230) is folded later relative to the second housing (220) via the second hinge member (202). According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may be configured to recognize as an abnormal folding order a case in which the third housing (230) is folded first relative to the second housing (220) via the second hinge member (202), and the first housing (210) is folded later relative to the second housing (220) via the first hinge member (201).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the width (w1) of the first housing (210) in the transverse direction (e.g., in the x-axis and -x-axis directions) may be configured to be smaller than the width (w2) of the second housing (220) in the transverse direction (e.g., in the x-axis and -x-axis directions). The width (w2) of the second housing (220) in the transverse direction (e.g., in the x-axis and -x-axis directions) may be configured to be substantially the same as the width (w3) of the third housing (230) in the transverse direction (e.g., in the x-axis and -x-axis directions). According to various embodiments, the width (w3) of the third housing (230) in the transverse direction (e.g., in the x-axis and -x-axis directions) may be configured to be larger than the width (w2) of the second housing (220) in the transverse direction (e.g., in the x-axis and -x-axis directions).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are disposed on both sides with respect to the first folding axis (A1) on which the first hinge member (201) is disposed, and may have an asymmetrical shape with respect to the first folding axis (A1). According to various embodiments, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may also have a symmetrical shape with respect to the first folding axis (A1). The angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are disposed on both sides with respect to the second folding axis (A2) on which the second hinge member (202) is disposed, and may have a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the second folding axis (A2). According to various embodiments, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may have an asymmetrical shape with respect to the second folding axis (A2). The angle or distance between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may vary depending on whether the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the width (w12) of the second hinge member (202) may be configured to be wider than the width (w11) of the first hinge member (201). For example, when the first housing (210) is folded with respect to the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) is folded with respect to the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) is disposed on top of the first housing (210), the width (w12) of the second hinge member (202) may be configured to be wider than the width (w11) of the first hinge member (201). For example, the first hinge member (201) may include a slim hinge having a narrow width. For example, the second hinge member (202) may include a wide hinge having a wider width than the first hinge member (201).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (240) can be arranged across at least a portion of the front (e.g., in the z-axis direction) of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). The flexible display (240) can be a first display, a foldable display, or a main display. According to various embodiments, a sub-display (250) (e.g., a second display) can be arranged on the rear (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) of the third housing (230).

[0079] In this document, the surface on which the flexible display (240) is placed may be defined as the front side (e.g., in the z-axis direction) of the foldable electronic device (200), and the surface opposite the front side may be defined as the back side (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) of the foldable electronic device (200). The surface surrounding the space between the front side and the back side may be defined as the side surface of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (240) may include a first display area (240a) disposed in the first housing (210), a second display area (240b) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third display area (240c) disposed in the third housing (230). The first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) may be integrally formed to form the flexible display (240). According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the flexible display (240) may be configured to be disposed on most of the front surface (e.g., in the z-axis direction) of the foldable electronic device (200). At least a portion of the flexible display (240) may be deformed into a flat surface or a curved surface. The divisions into the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may be exemplary physical divisions. The flexible display (240) may be formed as a seamless, single full screen.

[0081] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6), the first housing (210) may include a first side member (213) connected to at least a portion of the first hinge member (201) and arranged to face the front of the foldable electronic device (200), a second side member (212) facing in an opposite direction of the first side member (211), and / or surrounding at least a portion of a first space between the first side member (211) and the second side member (212).

[0082] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the second housing (220) may include a third side (221) that is connected to at least a portion of the first hinge member (201) and the second hinge member (202) and arranged to face the front of the foldable electronic device (200), a fourth side (222) that faces in an opposite direction of the third side (221), and / or a second side member (223) that surrounds at least a portion of a second space between the third side (221) and the fourth side (222).

[0083] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the third housing (230) may include a fifth side (231) that is connected to at least a portion of the second hinge member (202) and arranged to face the front of the foldable electronic device (200), a sixth side (232) that faces in an opposite direction of the fifth side (231), and / or a third side member (233) that surrounds at least a portion of a third space between the fifth side (231) and the sixth side (232).

[0084] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the first side (211), the third side (221), and the fifth side (231) may face substantially the same direction (e.g., the z-axis direction). When the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the second side (212), the fourth side (222), and the sixth side (232) may face substantially the same direction (e.g., the -z-axis direction).

[0085] According to various embodiments, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) of the foldable electronic device (200) are in a folded state, the first side (211) and the third side (221) may be arranged to face each other. When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are in a folded state, the third side (221) and the fifth side (231) may be arranged to face each other. According to various embodiments, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) of the foldable electronic device (200) are in a folded state (e.g., the second state (620) of FIG. 6), the second side (212) and the fourth side (222) may be arranged to face each other. When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are folded, the fourth side (222) and the sixth side (232) may be arranged to face each other.

[0086] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a recess (245) formed to accommodate a flexible display (240) through structural joining of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). The recess (245) may have substantially the same size as the flexible display (240).

[0087] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) form an angle of about 180 degrees, and the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may be arranged to form substantially the same plane and face substantially the same direction (e.g., the z-axis direction). According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may be defined as the third state when the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are unfolded.

[0088] According to various embodiments, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may form an angle that allows them to stop at a designated folding angle between a folded state and an unfolded state (e.g., a free stop function) using the first hinge member (201). In various embodiments, the first housing (210) may also be rotated to move toward the rear of the second housing (220) while being pressed in the unfolding direction (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) based on the designated inflection angle using the first hinge member (201).

[0089] According to various embodiments, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may form an angle that allows them to stop at a designated folding angle between a folded state and an unfolded state using the second hinge member (202). In various embodiments, the third housing (230) may also be rotated to move toward the rear of the second housing (220) while being pressed in an unfolding direction (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) based on the designated inflection angle using the second hinge member (202).

[0090] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (240) may be arranged to be supported by the first side (211) of the first housing (210), the first hinge member (201), the third side (221) of the second housing (220), the second hinge member (202), and the fifth side (231) of the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the sub-display (250) may be arranged to be at least partially visible from the outside through the sixth side (232) in the interior space of the third housing (230). In various embodiments, the sub-display (250) may also be arranged to be visible from the outside through the second side (212) in the interior space of the first housing (210).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (240) may be primarily used when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, and the sub-display (250) may be primarily used when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state. The flexible display (240) may be placed in a receiving space formed by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). For example, the flexible display (240) may be placed in a recess (245) formed by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first rear cover (280) disposed on a fourth side (222) of the second housing (220) and a second rear cover (290) disposed on a sixth side (232) of the third housing (230). In various embodiments, at least a portion of the first rear cover (280) may be formed integrally with a portion of the second side member (223). In various embodiments, at least a portion of the second rear cover (290) may be formed integrally with a portion of the third side member (233). According to one embodiment, at least one of the first rear cover (280) and the second rear cover (290) may be formed of a substantially transparent plate (e.g., a glass plate including various coating layers, or a polymer plate) or an opaque plate.

[0093] According to various embodiments, the first rear cover (280) may be formed by an opaque plate, such as, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. The second rear cover (290) may be formed by, for example, a substantially transparent plate, such as, for example, glass or polymer. In this case, the sub-display (250) may be arranged so as to be visible from the outside through the second rear cover (290) in the internal space of the third housing (230).

[0094] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may include at least one of an input module (261), an audio output module (263, 265), a sensor module (267a, 267b, 267c), a camera module (271a, 271b, 271c), a key input device (273), an indicator (not shown), or a connector port (275). In various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may omit at least one of the above-described components or may additionally include at least one other component.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the input module (261) may include at least one microphone positioned to detect the direction of sound. The input module (261) may include the input module (150) disclosed in FIG. 1.

[0096] In one embodiment, the audio output module (263, 265) may include at least one speaker. The audio output module (263, 265) may include a call receiver (263) disposed through the sixth side (232) of the third housing (230) and / or a speaker (265) disposed on at least a portion of an upper portion (e.g., in the y-axis direction) and a lower portion (e.g., in the -y-axis direction) of the third side member (233) of the third housing (230). The audio output module (263, 265) may include the audio output module (155) disclosed in FIG. 1.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the input module (261), the audio output module (263, 265) and the connector port (275) are disposed in spaces of the first housing (210), the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230) and can be exposed to the external environment through at least one hole formed in the first housing (210), the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the holes formed in the first housing (210), the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230) may be used in common for the input module (261) and the audio output module (263, 265). In one embodiment, the audio output module (263, 265) may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without the holes formed in the first housing (210) and / or the third housing (230).

[0098] According to various embodiments, the camera modules (271a, 271b, 271c) may include a first camera module (271a) disposed on a third side (221) of the second housing (220), a second camera module (271b) disposed on a fourth side (222) of the second housing (220), and / or a third camera module (271c) disposed on a sixth side (232) of the third housing (230). According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a flash (295) disposed near the second camera module (271b). The flash (295) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, the camera modules (271a, 271b, 271c) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, and / or image signal processors. In one embodiment, at least one of the camera modules (271a, 271b, 271c) includes two or more lenses (e.g., wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors, and may be arranged together on one side of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and / or the third housing (230). For example, the camera modules (271a, 271b, 271c) may include the camera module (180) disclosed in FIG. 1.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the sensor modules (267a, 267b, 267c) may generate electrical signals or data values ​​corresponding to an internal operating state or an external environmental state of the foldable electronic device (200). According to various embodiments, the sensor modules (267a, 267b, 267c) may include a first sensor module (267a) disposed on a third surface (221) of the second housing (220), a second sensor module (267b) disposed on a fourth surface (222) of the second housing (220), and / or a third sensor module (267c) disposed on a sixth surface (232) of the third housing (230). In various embodiments, the sensor modules (267a, 267b, 267c) may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a light sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an iris recognition sensor, or a distance detection sensor (e.g., a time of flight (TOF) sensor or a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor). For example, the sensor modules (267a, 267b, 267c) may include the sensor module (176) disclosed in FIG. 1.

[0100] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include at least one of a sensor module not shown, for example, a Hall sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a gyro sensor, a folding detection sensor, a proximity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or a fingerprint recognition sensor.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the key input device (273) may be arranged to be exposed to the outside through the first side member (213) of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the key input device (73) may also be arranged to be exposed to the outside through the third side member (233) of the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the key input devices (273), and the key input devices (273) that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key, on at least one display (240, 250). In various embodiments, the key input device (273) may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in at least one display (240, 250). In one embodiment, the key input device (273) may include a power button and / or a volume control button of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the connector port (275) may include a connector (e.g., a USB connector or an IF module (interface connector port module)) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic devices 102, 104, 108 of FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the connector port (275) may also perform a function for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device, or may further include a separate connector port (e.g., an ear jack hole) for performing a function for transmitting and receiving audio signals. For example, the connector port (275) may include a connection terminal (178) disclosed in FIG. 1.

[0103] According to various embodiments, at least one of the camera modules (271a, 271b, 271c), at least one of the sensor modules (267a, 267b, 267c), and / or an indicator may be arranged to be exposed through at least one display (240, 250). For example, at least one camera module (271a, 271c), at least one sensor module (267a, 267c) and / or an indicator may be arranged in an interior space of at least one housing (210, 220, 230), below an active area (display area) of at least one display (240, 250), and may be arranged to be in contact with the external environment through an opening or transparent area perforated up to a cover member (e.g., a window layer (not shown) of the flexible display (240) and / or a second rear cover (290)).

[0104] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) disclosed below may include at least some of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1 to 2B. Embodiments related to the foldable electronic device (200) disclosed below may be integrated and applied to the embodiments described in the foldable electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A and 2B. In the description of various embodiments of the present invention disclosed below, components that are substantially the same as those of the embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 1 to 2B described above are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of their functions may be omitted.

[0105] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which a first housing of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention is folded relative to a second housing. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which a first housing and a third housing of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention are folded relative to a second housing.

[0106] According to one embodiment, FIG. 3 may be a drawing viewed from the -y-axis direction of a state in which the first housing (210) of the foldable electronic device (200) is folded toward the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, FIG. 4 may be a drawing viewed from the -y-axis direction of a state in which the first housing (210) of the foldable electronic device (200) is folded first toward the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) is folded later toward the second housing (220) (e.g., a normal folding order).

[0107] In the description of the foldable electronic device (200) disclosed below, a state in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded with respect to the second housing (220) may be defined as a first state (e.g., a first state (610) of FIG. 6), a state in which the first housing (210) is folded with respect to the second housing (220) may be defined as a second state (e.g., a second state (620) of FIG. 6), and a state in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are unfolded may be defined as a third state (e.g., a third state (630) of FIG. 6).

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), a first hinge member (201), and a second hinge member (202).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may first be folded onto the upper portion (e.g., in the z-axis direction) of the second housing (220) via the first hinge member (201) (e.g., a slim hinge). According to various embodiments, the first housing (210) may also be folded onto the lower portion (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) of the second housing (220) via the first hinge member (201). For example, when the first housing (210) of the foldable electronic device (200) is folded onto the second housing (220) via the first hinge member (201), the foldable electronic device may be in a second state (e.g., the second state (620) of FIG. 6).

[0110] In one embodiment, after the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) via the first hinge member (201), the third housing (230) may be folded toward the second housing (220) via the second hinge member (202) (e.g., a wide hinge) and placed on the upper portion (e.g., in the z-axis direction) of the first housing (210). In various embodiments, the first housing (210) may be folded first relative to the lower portion (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) of the second housing (220) via the first hinge member (201), and then the third housing (230) may be folded toward the second housing (220) via the second hinge member (202) and placed on the lower portion (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) of the first housing (210). For example, for the second housing (220) of the foldable electronic device (200), when the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded, it may be in a first state (e.g., the first state (610) of FIG. 6). For example, when the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are unfolded, it may be in a third state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6).

[0111] In one embodiment, the first hinge member (201) can have a first width (w11). The second hinge member (202) can have a second width (w12). The second width (w12) can be wider than the first width (w11). For example, the first hinge member (201) can include a slim hinge having a narrow width. For example, the second hinge member (202) can include a wide hinge having a wider width than the first hinge member (201).

[0112] FIG. 5 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 5, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first sensor (510), a second sensor (520), a camera module (180), a flexible display (240), a wireless communication module (192), a memory (130), and / or a processor (120).

[0114] According to various embodiments, the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), the camera module (180), the flexible display (240), the wireless communication module (192), the memory (130), and the processor (120) may be electrically or operatively connected.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the first sensor (510) can sense an angle (e.g., a folding angle) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and transmit the sensed angle information to the processor (120).

[0116] For example, when the first housing (210) is folded toward the second housing (220) via the first hinge member (201), the first sensor (510) can detect an angle (e.g., a first angle) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the first sensor (510) may be disposed in at least one of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The first sensor (510) may include an angle sensor, a folding measurement sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a Hall sensor, a gyro sensor, a motion sensor, or a proximity sensor. According to various embodiments, the first sensor (510) is not limited to the above-described sensors, and other various sensors may be used as long as they can detect a folding angle (e.g., the first angle) between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0118] According to one embodiment, angle information between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) detected through the first sensor (510) may be calculated through the processor (120). If the angle detected through the first sensor (510) is less than or equal to a specified angle, the processor (120) may recognize that the first housing (210) of the foldable electronic device (200) is in a second state (e.g., the second state (620) of FIG. 6) folded with respect to the second housing (220). The first sensor (510) may include the sensor module (176) disclosed in FIG. 1.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the second sensor (520) can sense an angle (e.g., a folding angle) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) and transmit the sensed angle information to the processor (120).

[0120] For example, when the third housing (230) is folded toward the second housing (220) via the second hinge member (202), the second sensor (520) can detect an angle (e.g., a second angle) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the second sensor (520) may be disposed in at least one of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The second sensor (520) may include an angle sensor, a folding measurement sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a Hall sensor, a gyro sensor, a motion sensor, or a proximity sensor. According to various embodiments, the second sensor (520) is not limited to the above-described sensors, and other various sensors may be used as long as they can detect a folding angle (e.g., the second angle) between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230).

[0122] According to one embodiment, angle information between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) detected through the second sensor (520) may be calculated through the processor (120). If the angle detected through the second sensor (520) is less than or equal to a specified angle, the processor (120) may recognize that the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state with respect to the second housing (220). For example, if the angle detected through the first sensor (510) and the second sensor (520) is less than or equal to a specified angle, the processor (120) may recognize that the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are in a first state (e.g., the first state (610) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded with respect to the second housing (220). The second sensor (520) may include the sensor module (176) disclosed in FIG. 1.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the angle information may mean an output value detected from the first sensor (510) (e.g., a Hall sensor) and / or the second sensor (520) (e.g., a Hall sensor) or a value converted based on the output value detected from the first sensor (510) and / or the second sensor (520). For example, the output value detected from the first sensor (510) (e.g., a Hall sensor) and / or the second sensor (520) (e.g., a Hall sensor) may include a value (e.g., a magnetic field, a voltage, a current, a resistance, and / or a magnitude of a signal) that can estimate an angle even if it is not converted into angle information (e.g., an angle value).

[0124] According to various embodiments, at least one of the first sensor (510) and the second sensor (520) can detect rotation information of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, at least one of the first sensor (510) and the second sensor (520) can detect whether the foldable electronic device (200) is in landscape mode or portrait mode.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) can capture still images and moving images. For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B , the camera module (180) may include a first camera module (271a) disposed on a third surface (221) of the second housing (220), a second camera module (271b) disposed on a fourth surface (222) of the second housing (220), and / or a third camera module (271c) disposed on a sixth surface (232) of the third housing (230). Images captured by the camera module (180) may include captured images and moving images.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) can capture a first image (e.g., the first image (611) of FIG. 6) in a first state (e.g., the first state (610) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded relative to the second housing (220) of the foldable electronic device (200). The first image can have a first size (e.g., a first ratio). The first image captured by the camera module (180) in the first state can be stored in the memory (130).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) can capture a second image (e.g., the second image (621) of FIG. 6) in a second state (e.g., the second state (620) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) of the foldable electronic device (200). The second image can have a second size (e.g., a second ratio). The second image captured by the camera module (180) in the second state can be stored in the memory (130).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) can capture a third image (e.g., the third image (631) of FIG. 6) in a third state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are unfolded. The third image can have a third size (e.g., a third ratio). The third image captured by the camera module (180) in the third state can be stored in the memory (130).

[0129] According to various embodiments, a first image (e.g., a first image (611) of FIG. 6) captured in a first state (e.g., a first state (610) of FIG. 6) through the camera module (180) may have a ratio in which the vertical direction is longer than the horizontal direction. A second image (e.g., a second image (621) of FIG. 6) captured in a second state (e.g., a second state (620) of FIG. 6) through the camera module (180) may have a ratio in which the horizontal direction and the vertical direction are substantially the same (e.g., 1:1). A third image (e.g., a third image (631) of FIG. 6) captured in a third state (e.g., a third state (630) of FIG. 6) through the camera module (180) may have a ratio in which the horizontal direction is longer than the vertical direction.

[0130] According to various embodiments, a second image (e.g., a second image (621) of FIG. 6) captured in a second state (e.g., a second state (620) of FIG. 6) through a camera module (180) may have a larger horizontal ratio than a first image (e.g., a first image (611) of FIG. 6) captured in a first state (e.g., a first state (610) of FIG. 6), and a third image (e.g., a third image (631) of FIG. 6) captured in a third state (e.g., a third state (630) of FIG. 6)) may have a larger horizontal ratio than the first image or the second image. For example, a second image captured in a second state through a camera module (180) may have a larger size than a first image captured in a first state, and a third image captured in a third state may have a larger size than the first image or the second image.

[0131] According to various embodiments, the camera module (180) may include one or more image sensors (e.g., a front sensor and / or a rear sensor), a lens assembly, an Image Signal Processor (ISP), and / or a Flash (e.g., an LED or xenon lamp).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (240) may display, through the camera module (180), a first image (e.g., a first image (611) of FIG. 6) captured in a first state (e.g., a first state (610) of FIG. 6), a second image (e.g., a second image (621) of FIG. 6) captured in a second state (e.g., a second state (620) of FIG. 6), and a third image (e.g., a third image (631) of FIG. 6) captured in a third state (e.g., a third state (630) of FIG. 6)) in priority or in sequence. For example, the flexible display (240) may provide the first image, the second image, and the third image captured when the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are in a folded state and / or an unfolded state, preferentially or sequentially, depending on the state (e.g., the first state, the second state, or the third state) of the foldable electronic device (200) that the user is currently using. For example, the state of the foldable electronic device (200) that the user is currently using may be a state in which the user is viewing the folded and / or unfolded flexible display (240) depending on the folding and / or unfolding state of the current foldable electronic device (200).

[0133] According to various embodiments, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a first state (e.g., the first state (610) of FIG. 6) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the flexible display (240) may preferentially display a first image (e.g., the first image (611) of FIG. 6) captured by the camera module (180) in the first state over a second image (e.g., the second image (621) of FIG. 6) and a third image (e.g., the third image (631) of FIG. 6). For example, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a second state (e.g., the second state (620) of FIG. 6) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), a second image (e.g., the second image (621) of FIG. 6) captured by the camera module (180) in the second state can be displayed with preference over the first image and the third image. For example, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a third state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), a third image (e.g., the third image (631) of FIG. 6) captured by the camera module (180) in the third state can be displayed with preference over the first image and the second image.

[0134] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (240) (or sub-display (250)) can display the initial screen, setting screen, and / or execution screens of various applications of the foldable electronic device (200). The flexible display (240) (or sub-display (250)) can provide a user interface (UI) that can provide various services to the user of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0135] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (240) (or sub-display (250)) can perform a display function and an input function. The flexible display (240) (or sub-display (250)) can include a display and a touch circuit to perform the display function and the input function. The display can visually provide a menu, input data, function setting information, and various information of the foldable electronic device (200) to a user. The display can include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), and an active matrix organic light emitting diode (AMOLED). The touch circuit can include a touch sensor (168a) or a pressure sensor such as a capacitive overlay, a resistive overlay, or an infrared beam detection type.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may support the foldable electronic device (200) to receive other images (e.g., downloaded images and / or shared images) from an external electronic device (e.g., electronic devices 102, 104, and / or 108 of FIG. 1). The wireless communication module (192) may support the foldable electronic device (200) to download or receive images from an external electronic device (e.g., electronic devices 102, 104, and / or 108 of FIG. 1).

[0137] According to various embodiments, the wireless communication module (192) may form a communication channel with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102, 104, and / or 108) of FIG. 1) to support at least one of a voice call, a video call, and a data communication function of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the wireless communication module (192) may support at least one of Wi-Fi, BT (Bluetooth), NFC, GPS, or cellular communication (e.g., LTE, LTE-A, CDMA, WCDMA, UMTS, WiBro, GSM).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the memory (130) may store a first image (e.g., a first image (611) of FIG. 6) captured by the camera module (180) in a first state (e.g., a first state (610) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded relative to the second housing (220) of the foldable electronic device (200). The memory (130) may store a second image (e.g., a second image (621) of FIG. 6) captured by the camera module (180) in a second state (e.g., a second state (620) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) of the foldable electronic device (200). The memory (130) can store a third image (e.g., the third image (631) of FIG. 6) captured by the camera module (180) in a third state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are unfolded.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the memory (130) may store at least one executable designated application (146). For example, the at least one designated application (146) may include a gallery app. When executed, the at least one designated application (146) may, under the control of the processor (120), display first images, second images, and third images captured when the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are in a folded state and / or an unfolded state, preferentially or sequentially through the flexible display (240) depending on the state of the foldable electronic device (200) currently being used by the user (e.g., the first state, the second state, or the third state).

[0140] According to various embodiments, at least one designated application (146) may refer to software running on a mobile operating system (OS) or a computer operating system (OS). For example, at least one designated application (146) may include a gallery app that stores at least one image captured via a camera module (180). At least one designated application (146) may include any type of software that a user can design using an input module (e.g., the input module of FIG. 1).

[0141] According to various embodiments, the memory (130) may store the initial screen, setting screen, and / or various applications of the foldable electronic device (200) provided through the flexible display (240) (or sub-display (250)). The memory (130) may store a user interface that may provide various services to the user of the foldable electronic device (200). The memory (130) may perform a function of storing a program for processing and controlling the processor (120) (e.g., the program (140) of FIG. 1A), an operating system (e.g., the operating system (142) of FIG. 1A), various applications, and input / output data. The memory (130) may store a program that controls the overall operation of the foldable electronic device (200). The memory (130) may store various setting information required for processing functions in the foldable electronic device (200).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may be operatively connected to a first sensor (510), a second sensor (520), a camera module (180), a flexible display (240) (or a sub-display (250)), a wireless communication module (192), and a memory (130). The processor (120) may be electrically connected to the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), the camera module (180), the flexible display (240) (or a sub-display (250)), the wireless communication module (192), and the memory (130). The processor (120) may control functions and operations of the first sensor (510), the second sensor (520), the camera module (180), the flexible display (240) (or a sub-display (250)), the wireless communication module (192), and the memory (130). The processor (120) may be configured to access a memory (130) storing at least one executable instruction and execute at least one instruction. The foldable electronic device (200) may include at least one processor.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) can determine or confirm folding and unfolding of the second housing (220) and the first housing (210) or folding and unfolding of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) based on an angle sensed by the first sensor (510) (e.g., a first angle) or an angle sensed by the second sensor (520) (e.g., a second angle).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may detect folding and / or unfolding angles of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) through the first sensor (510) and the second sensor (520), and recognize a state in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded relative to the second housing (220) as a first state (e.g., the first state (610) of FIG. 6), recognize a state in which the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) as a second state (e.g., the second state (620) of FIG. 6), and recognize a state in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are unfolded as a third state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may acquire a first image (e.g., the first image (611) of FIG. 6) captured through the camera module (180) in a first state (e.g., the first state (610) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded relative to the second housing (220) and store the first image (611) of FIG. 6) in the memory (130).

[0146] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may acquire a second image (e.g., the second image (621) of FIG. 6) captured through the camera module (180) in a second state (e.g., the second state (620) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) and store the second image in the memory (130).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may acquire a third image (e.g., the third image (631) of FIG. 6) captured through the camera module (180) in a third state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6) in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are unfolded, and store the image in the memory (130).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may, in a first state (e.g., the first state (610) of FIG. 6), preferentially display a first image (e.g., the first image (611) of FIG. 6) on the flexible display (240) when a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app) is executed.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may, in a second state (e.g., the second state (620) of FIG. 6), preferentially display a second image (e.g., the second image (621) of FIG. 6) on the flexible display (240) when executing a designated application (146).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may, in a third state (e.g., the third state (630) of FIG. 6), preferentially display a third image (e.g., the third image (631) of FIG. 6) on the flexible display (240) when executing a designated application (146).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may display a second image through the flexible display (240) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a first state and a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app) is executed, and a first image captured through the camera module (180) in the first state is not stored in the memory (130).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may display a third image through the flexible display (240) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a second state and a designated application (146) is executed, and the second image captured through the camera module (180) in the second state is not stored in the memory (130).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may sequentially arrange and display the first image, the second image, and the third image on the flexible display (240) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a first state and a designated application (146) is executed.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may sequentially display an image (e.g., a second image) having a size similar to a first image through the flexible display (240) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a first state and a designated application (146) is executed.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may sequentially display an image (e.g., a third image) having a size similar to the second image through the flexible display (240) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in the second state and a designated application (146) is executed.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to display a first image through the flexible display (240) in the second state or the third state, receive a user input for the displayed first image, and expand the size of the first image based on the received user input.

[0157] According to various embodiments, the processor (120) may control the overall operation of the foldable electronic device (200) and the signal flow between internal components, and may perform a function of processing data. The processor (120) may include, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor, and / or a communication processor. The processor (120) may include a single core processor or a multi-core processor. The processor (120) may be composed of at least one processor. For example, the processor (120) may include an application processor (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1A) and a sensor hub processor (e.g., the auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1A). The sensor hub processor is operatively connected to the first sensor (510) and the second sensor (520), and can transmit information sensed or detected through the first sensor (510) and / or the second sensor (520) to the application processor.

[0158] FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating images captured according to a state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) can capture a first image (611) through the camera module (180) in a first state (610) in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded relative to the second housing (220). The first image (611) can have a first size (e.g., a first ratio). The first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610) can be displayed on the flexible display (240) (e.g., the second display area (240b)) and stored in the memory (130).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) can capture a second image (621) through the camera module (180) in a second state (620) in which the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220). The second image (621) can have a second size (e.g., a second ratio). The second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620) can be displayed on the flexible display (240) (e.g., the second display area (240b) and the third display area (240c)) and stored in the memory (130).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) can capture a third image (631) through the camera module (180) in a third state (630) in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are unfolded. The third image (631) can have a third size (e.g., a third ratio). The third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in the third state can be displayed on the flexible display (240) (e.g., the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c)) and stored in the memory (130).

[0162] According to one embodiment, a first image (611) captured when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a first state (610) may have a ratio in which the vertical direction is longer than the horizontal direction. A second image (621) captured when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a second state (620) may have a ratio in which the horizontal direction and the vertical direction are substantially the same (e.g., 1:1). A third image (631) captured when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a third state (630) may have a ratio in which the horizontal direction is longer than the vertical direction.

[0163] According to various embodiments, the second image (621) captured in the second state (620) of the foldable electronic device (200) may have a larger horizontal aspect ratio than the first image (611) captured in the first state (610), and the third image (631) captured in the third state (630) may have a larger horizontal aspect ratio than the first image (611) or the second image (621). For example, the second image (621) captured in the second state (620) of the foldable electronic device (200) may have a larger size than the first image (611) captured in the first state (610), and the third image (631) captured in the third state (630) may have a larger size than the first image (611) or the second image (621).

[0164] FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display according to a first state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a first state (610) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may display a first image (611) captured by the camera module (180) in the first state (610) on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a second display area (240b)). For example, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in the first state (610) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may preferentially display the first image (611) captured by the camera module (180) in the first state (610) over the second image (621) and the third image (631). The first image (611) may include at least one image.

[0166] FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display according to a second state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in the second state (620) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may display a second image (621) captured by the camera module (180) in the second state (620) on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a second display area (240b) and a third display area (240c)). For example, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in the second state (620) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may preferentially display the second image (621) captured by the camera module (180) in the second state (620) compared to the first image (611) and the third image (631). The second image (621) may include at least one image.

[0168] FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display according to a third state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0169] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a third state (630) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) can display a third image (631) captured by the camera module (180) in the third state (630) on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a first display area (240a), a second display area (240b), and a third display area (240c)). For example, when a user is using the foldable electronic device (200) in a third state (630) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may preferentially display a third image (631) captured by the camera module (180) in the third state (630) compared to the first image (611) and the second image (621). The third image (631) may include at least one image.

[0170] According to various embodiments, in the embodiments related to FIGS. 7 to 9, an example of displaying a first image (611), a second image (621), or a third image (631) having different sizes and ratios on the flexible display (240) depending on whether the foldable electronic device (200) is in the first state (610), the second state (620), or the third state (630) has been described, but the same may be substantially applied to images (e.g., downloaded images and / or shared images) having different sizes and ratios that the foldable electronic device (200) receives from an external electronic device (e.g., electronic devices (102, 104, and / or 108) of FIG. 1).

[0171] FIG. 10 is a drawing schematically illustrating a first image displayed when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is in a first state.

[0172] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a first state (610) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may display a first image (611) captured by the camera module (180) in the first state (610) on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a second display area (240b)). For example, when the user selects one image (611a) among the first images (611) displayed on the flexible display (240), the foldable electronic device (200) may display the selected image (611a) on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a second display area (240b)).

[0173] FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating a second image displayed when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is in a second state.

[0174] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a second state (620) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may display a second image (621) captured by the camera module (180) in the second state (620) on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a second display area (240b) and a third display area (240c)). For example, when the user selects one image (621a) among the second images (621) displayed on the flexible display (240), the foldable electronic device (200) may display the selected image (621a) on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a second display area (240b) and a third display area (240c)).

[0175] FIG. 12 is a drawing schematically illustrating a third image displayed when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention is in a third state.

[0176] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a third state (630) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) can display a second image (631) captured by the camera module (180) in the third state (630) on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a first display area (240a), a second display area (240b), and a third display area (240c)). For example, when a user selects one image (631a) among the third images (631) displayed on the flexible display (240), the foldable electronic device (200) can display the selected image (631a) through the flexible display (240) (e.g., the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c)).

[0177] FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention executes a designated application in a first state.

[0178] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a first state (610) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may sequentially arrange a first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610), a second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620), and a third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in the third state (630) and display them on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a second display area (240b)). For example, when a user uses a foldable electronic device (200) in a first state (610) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may sequentially arrange a first image (611) captured in the first state (610), a second image (621) captured in the second state (620), and a third image (631) captured in the third state (630) and display them as preview images on the flexible display (240). For example, when a user selects one image (611a) among the first images (611) preferentially displayed on the flexible display (240), the foldable electronic device (200) may display the selected image (611a) through the flexible display (240) (e.g., the second display area (240b)).

[0179] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may, for example, prioritize displaying a second image (621) having a similar size to the first image (611) on the flexible display (240) when the first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610) is not stored in the memory (130).

[0180] FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention executes a designated application in a second state.

[0181] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a second state (620) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may sequentially arrange a second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620), a third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in the third state (630), and a first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610) and display them on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a second display area (240b) and a third display area (240c)). For example, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in the second state (620) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may sequentially arrange the second image (621) in the second state (620), the third image (631) captured in the third state (630), and the first image (611) captured in the first state (610) and display them as preview images on the flexible display (240). For example, when the user selects one image (621a) among the second images (621) preferentially displayed on the flexible display (240), the foldable electronic device (200) may display the selected image (621a) through the flexible display (240) (e.g., the second display area (240b) and the third display area (240c)).

[0182] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may display a third image (631) having a similar size to the second image (621) on the flexible display (240) as a priority when the second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620) is not stored in the memory (130).

[0183] FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically illustrating images displayed through a flexible display when a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention executes a designated application in a third state.

[0184] According to one embodiment, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a third state (630) and executes a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) may sequentially arrange a third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in the third state (630), a second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620), and a first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610) and display them on the flexible display (240) (e.g., a first display area (240a), a second display area (240b), and a third display area (240c)). For example, when a user uses the foldable electronic device (200) in a third state (630) and runs a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app), the foldable electronic device (200) can sequentially arrange a third image (631) captured in the third state (630), a second image (621) captured in the second state (620), and a first image (611) captured in the first state (610) and display them as preview images on the flexible display (240). For example, when a user selects one image (631a) among the third images (631) preferentially displayed on the flexible display (240), the foldable electronic device (200) can display the selected image (621a) through the flexible display (240) (e.g., the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c)).

[0185] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may display a second image (621) having a similar size to the third image (631) on the flexible display (240) as a priority when the third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in the third state (630) is not stored in the memory (130).

[0186] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing an image using a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] The method disclosed below can be performed, for example, through components of the foldable electronic device (200) disclosed in FIG. 5. The method disclosed below can include, for example, the embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 1 to 15. In embodiments related to the method below, the operations may be performed sequentially, but may not necessarily be performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed. For example, the order of the operations may be performed in parallel. For example, the operations may not all be performed, but at least some of them may be performed. The operations disclosed below can be performed by the processor (120) of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0188] At operation 1610, the processor (120) may detect that the user triggers the camera module (180) to capture an image.

[0189] In operation 1620, the processor (120) can determine whether the state of the foldable electronic device (200) for capturing an image through the camera module (180) is the first state (610), the second state (620), or the third state (630).

[0190] As a result of the confirmation of the above operation 1620, if the foldable electronic device (200) is in the first state (610), in operation 1631, the processor (120) can store the first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the memory (130).

[0191] As a result of the confirmation of the above operation 1620, if the foldable electronic device (200) is in the second state (620), in operation 1632, the processor (120) can store the second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the memory (130).

[0192] As a result of the confirmation of the above operation 1620, if the foldable electronic device (200) is in the third state (630), in operation 1633, the processor (120) can store the third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in the memory (130).

[0193] At operation 1640, the processor (120) may execute a designated application (146) (e.g., a gallery app) at the user's request.

[0194] In operation 1650, the processor (120) can determine whether the state of the foldable electronic device (200) currently being used by the user is the first state (610), the second state (620), or the third state (630).

[0195] As a result of the confirmation of the above operation 1650, if the foldable electronic device (200) is in use in the first state (610), in operation 1661, the processor (120) can display the first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) on the flexible display (240).

[0196] As a result of the confirmation of the above operation 1650, if the foldable electronic device (200) is in use in the second state (620), in operation 1662, the processor (120) can display the second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) on the flexible display (240).

[0197] As a result of the confirmation of the above operation 1650, if the foldable electronic device (200) is in use in the third state (630), in operation 1663, the processor (120) can display the third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) on the flexible display (240).

[0198] A foldable electronic device (101, 200) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a flexible camera module (180), a second housing (220), a first housing (210) foldably coupled to a first side of the second housing (220), a third housing (230) foldably coupled to a second side of the second housing (220), a first hinge member (201) coupled between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), a second hinge member (202) coupled between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230), a first display area (240a) disposed in the first housing (210), a second display area (240b) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third display area (240c) disposed in the third housing (230). It may include a display (240).

[0199] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a first sensor (510) configured to sense a first angle between the second housing (220) and the first housing (210) and a second sensor (520) configured to sense a second angle between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230).

[0200] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a memory (130) storing at least one executable instruction and at least one processor (120) configured to access the memory (130) and execute the at least one instruction.

[0201] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) can determine (e.g., confirm) folding and unfolding of the second housing (220) and the first housing (210) or folding and unfolding of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) based on the first angle sensed by the first sensor (510) or the second angle sensed by the second sensor (520).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) can acquire a first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in a first state (610) in which the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded relative to the second housing (220) and store the image in the memory (130).

[0203] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) can acquire a second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in a second state (620) in which the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) and store the image in the memory (130).

[0204] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to preferentially display the first image (611) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

[0205] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to preferentially display the second image (621) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed in the second state (620).

[0206] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) can acquire a third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in a third state (630) in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are unfolded, and store the image in the memory (130).

[0207] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to preferentially display the third image (631) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed in the third state (630).

[0208] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to display the second image (621) through the flexible display (240) when the first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610) is not stored in the memory (130) when the specified application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

[0209] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to display the third image (631) through the flexible display (240) when the second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620) is not stored in the memory (130) when the specified application (146) is executed in the second state (620).

[0210] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to sequentially display the first image (611), the second image (621), and the third image (631) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

[0211] According to one embodiment, the second image (621) may be configured to have a larger horizontal ratio than the first image (611), and the third image (631) may be configured to have a larger horizontal ratio than the second image (621).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the second image (621) may be configured to have a larger size than the first image (611), and the third image (631) may be configured to have a larger size than the second image (621).

[0213] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to sequentially display an image having a size similar to the first image (611) through the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to display the first image (611) through the flexible display (240) in the second state (620) or the third state (630), receive a user input for the displayed first image (611), and expand the size of the first image (611) based on the received user input.

[0215] A method for providing an image using a foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an operation of detecting, by at least one processor (120), that a camera module (180) is triggered. According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of determining whether the foldable electronic device (200) for capturing an image through the camera module (180) is in a first state (610), a second state (620), or a third state (630). According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of storing a first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in a memory (130) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in the first state (610). According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of storing a second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the memory (130) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in the second state (620). According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of preferentially displaying the first image (611) on the flexible display (240) when a designated application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

[0216] According to one embodiment, the method may include, in the second state (620), an operation of preferentially displaying the second image (621) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed.

[0217] According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of storing a third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in the memory (130) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in the third state (630).

[0218] According to one embodiment, the method may include, in the third state (630), an operation of preferentially displaying the third image (631) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed.

[0219] According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of displaying the second image (621) through the flexible display (240) when the first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610) is not stored in the memory (130) when the specified application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

[0220] According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of displaying the third image (631) through the flexible display (240) when the second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620) is not stored in the memory (130) when the specified application (146) is executed in the second state (620).

[0221] According to one embodiment, the method may include, in the first state (610), an operation of sequentially displaying the first image (611), the second image (621), and the third image (631) on the flexible display (240) when the specified application (146) is executed.

[0222] According to one embodiment, the second image (621) may be configured to have a larger horizontal ratio than the first image (611), and the third image (631) may be configured to have a larger horizontal ratio than the second image (621).

[0223] According to one embodiment, the second image (621) may be configured to have a larger size than the first image (611), and the third image (631) may be configured to have a larger size than the second image (621).

[0224] According to one embodiment, the method may include, in the first state (610), an operation of sequentially displaying an image having a size similar to the first image (611) through the flexible display (240) when the specified application (146) is executed.

[0225] According to one embodiment, the method may include, in the second state (620) or the third state (630), an operation of displaying the first image (611) through the flexible display (240), an operation of receiving a user input for the displayed first image (611), and an operation of expanding the size of the first image (611) based on the received user input.

[0226] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0227] 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 (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.

[0228] 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).

[0229] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0230] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0231] 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.

[0232] Although the present invention has been described above according to various embodiments of the present invention, it is obvious that changes and modifications made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains within a scope that does not depart from the technical spirit of the present invention also belong to the present invention.

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device (200), Camera module (180); Second housing (220); A first housing (210) foldably connected to the first side of the second housing (220); A third housing (230) foldably connected to the second side of the second housing (220); A first hinge member (201) coupled between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220); A second hinge member (202) coupled between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230); A flexible display (240) including a first display area (240a) arranged in the first housing (210), a second display area (240b) arranged in the second housing (220), and a third display area (240c) arranged in the third housing (230); A first sensor (510) configured to sense a first angle between the second housing (220) and the first housing (210); A second sensor (520) configured to sense a second angle between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230); A memory (130) storing at least one executable instruction; and At least one processor (120) configured to access the above memory (130) and execute the at least one instruction; At least one processor (120) above, Based on the first angle sensed by the first sensor (510) or the second angle sensed by the second sensor (520), the folding and unfolding of the second housing (220) and the first housing (210) or the folding and unfolding of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) is determined, For the second housing (220), in the first state (610) where the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are folded, a first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) is acquired and stored in the memory (130). In the second state (620) where the first housing (210) is folded with respect to the second housing (220), a second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) is acquired and stored in the memory (130). A foldable electronic device configured to preferentially display the first image (611) on the flexible display (240) when executing a designated application (146) in the first state (610).

2. In paragraph 1, At least one processor (120) above, A foldable electronic device configured to preferentially display the second image (621) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed in the second state (620).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, At least one processor (120) above, In a third state (630) in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are unfolded, a third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) is acquired and stored in the memory (130). A foldable electronic device configured to preferentially display the third image (631) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed in the third state (630).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, At least one processor (120) above, A foldable electronic device configured to display the second image (621) through the flexible display (240) when the first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610) is not stored in the memory (130) when the specified application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

5. In paragraph 3, At least one processor (120) above, A foldable electronic device configured to display the third image (631) through the flexible display (240) when the second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620) is not stored in the memory (130) when the specified application (146) is executed in the second state (620).

6. In paragraph 5, At least one processor (120) above, A foldable electronic device configured to sequentially display the first image (611), the second image (621), and the third image (631) on the flexible display (240) when the specified application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

7. In paragraph 3, The second image (621) above has a larger horizontal ratio than the first image (611), The third image (631) above is a foldable electronic device having a larger horizontal ratio than the second image (621).

8. In paragraph 3, The above second image (621) has a larger size than the first image (611), A foldable electronic device, wherein the third image (631) is configured to have a larger size than the second image (621).

9. In paragraph 3, At least one processor (120) above, A foldable electronic device configured to sequentially display images having a size similar to the first image (611) through the flexible display (240) when the specified application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

10. In paragraph 3, At least one processor (120) above, In the second state (620) or the third state (630), the first image (611) is displayed through the flexible display (240), Receiving user input for the first image (611) displayed above, A foldable electronic device configured to expand the size of the first image (611) based on the received user input.

11. A method for providing an image using a foldable electronic device (200), An operation in which at least one processor (120) detects that a camera module (180) is triggered; An operation of determining whether the foldable electronic device (200) for capturing an image through the camera module (180) is in the first state (610), the second state (620), or the third state (630); When the above foldable electronic device (200) is in the first state (610), an operation of storing a first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the memory (130); When the above foldable electronic device (200) is in the second state (620), an operation of storing a second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the memory (130); and A method including an operation of preferentially displaying the first image (611) on a flexible display (240) when a specified application (146) is executed in the first state (610).

12. In paragraph 11, A method including an operation of preferentially displaying the second image (621) on the flexible display (240) when the specified application (146) is executed in the second state (620).

13. In paragraph 11 or 12, When the above foldable electronic device (200) is in the third state (630), an operation of storing a third image (631) captured through the camera module (180) in the memory (130); and A method including an operation of preferentially displaying the third image (631) on the flexible display (240) when the designated application (146) is executed in the third state (630).

14. In any one of paragraphs 11 to 13, A method including an operation of displaying the second image (621) through the flexible display (240) when the specified application (146) is executed in the first state (610), if the first image (611) captured through the camera module (180) in the first state (610) is not stored in the memory (130).

15. In paragraph 13, A method including an operation of displaying the third image (631) through the flexible display (240) when the specified application (146) is executed in the second state (620), if the second image (621) captured through the camera module (180) in the second state (620) is not stored in the memory (130).

Images