Electronic device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electronic device. The electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a first housing; a second housing rotatably coupled to the first housing; a hinge that includes a first hinge arm connected to the first housing and a second hinge arm connected to the second housing; a flexible display that is seated in the first housing and the second housing and spaced apart from each of the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm; a first plate that is disposed between the first hinge arm and the flexible display; and a second plate that is disposed between the second hinge arm and the flexible display and spaced apart from the first plate. The first plate may include a first edge portion having a first inclined surface that is inclined relative to the direction in which the first hinge arm and the flexible display are spaced apart.

Description

electronic devices

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to electronic devices, for example, electronic devices including plates.

[0002] Thanks to remarkable advancements in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology, the proliferation and use of various electronic devices is rapidly increasing. In particular, recent electronic devices are being developed to enable portable communication.

[0003] Electronic devices can refer to devices that perform specific functions based on the programs installed on them, such as home appliances, electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, audio / video devices, desktop / laptop computers, and car navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as audio or video. As electronic device integration increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communications become more widespread, a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal, can now be equipped with a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions such as games, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions such as mobile banking, and functions such as schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are becoming smaller and more portable for users.

[0004] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first housing; a second housing rotatably coupled to the first housing; a hinge including a first hinge arm connected to the first housing and a second hinge arm connected to the second housing; a flexible display mounted on the first housing and the second housing and spaced apart from each of the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm; a first plate disposed between the first hinge arm and the flexible display; and a second plate disposed between the second hinge arm and the flexible display and spaced apart from the first plate, wherein the first plate may include a first edge portion having a first inclined surface inclined with respect to a direction in which the first hinge arm and the flexible display are spaced apart.

[0005] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a first housing; a second housing rotatably coupled to the first housing; a flexible display mounted on the first housing and the second housing, at least a portion of which is formed to be deformable; a hinge rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; a first plate disposed between the flexible display and the hinge; and a second plate disposed between the flexible display and the hinge and spaced apart from the first plate, wherein a folding space in which the flexible display is deformable is formed between the first plate and the second plate, and the first plate and the second plate may include edge portions inclined toward the folding space.

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

[0007] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 6A is a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 6b is a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6c is a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6d is a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] The following description of the accompanying drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure, including the claims and their equivalents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include numerous specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one example of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the various implementations described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0023] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their reference meanings and can be used to clearly and consistently describe one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various implementations of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents.

[0024] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural meanings. Thus, for example, "a component surface" could be understood to include one or more of the surfaces of the component.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0027] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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).

[0030] 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).

[0031] 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).

[0032] 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.

[0033] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0034] 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).

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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).

[0038] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0039] The camera module (180) can capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0040] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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.

[0044] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the 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).

[0045] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0046] 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)).

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0053] 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.

[0054] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (201), a hinge cover (240) covering a foldable portion of the housing (201), and a display (230) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201). According to one embodiment, a surface on which a screen output from the display (230) is exposed is defined as a front surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first front surface (210a) and a second front surface (220a)). A surface opposite to the front surface is defined as a rear surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first rear surface (210b) and a second rear surface (220b)). In addition, a surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the rear surface is defined as a side surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first side surface (210c) and a second side surface (220c)). The side of the electronic device (101) may be at least one side of the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 and 3 may be referred to as a foldable electronic device, a portable electronic device, or a portable foldable electronic device. According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may be referred to as a foldable housing. The display (230) may be referred to as a “flexible display.”

[0056] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220) rotatable with respect to the first housing (210), a first rear cover (280), and a second rear cover (290). The housing (201) of the electronic device (101) is not limited to the shape and combination shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the first rear cover (280) may be formed integrally, and the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (290) may be formed integrally.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) is connected to a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge assembly (202) of FIG. 4) and may include a first front surface (210a) facing a first direction and a first rear surface (210b) facing a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second housing (220) is connected to the hinge assembly (202) and includes a second front surface (220a) facing a third direction and a second rear surface (220b) facing a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, and may rotate about the hinge assembly (202) with respect to the first housing (210). Accordingly, the electronic device (101) may be variable between a folded state and an unfolded state. The electronic device (101) may have the first front side (210a) facing the second front side (220a) in a folded state, and the third direction may be the same as the first direction in an unfolded state. In the following, unless otherwise stated, the directions are described based on the unfolded state of the electronic device (101).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are arranged on both sides with respect to the folding axis (A) as the center, and may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis (A). As described below, the angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the state of the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) additionally includes a sensor area (224) in which sensors (e.g., a front camera) are arranged, but may have a mutually symmetrical shape in other areas.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the folding axis (A) may be a plurality of parallel folding axes (e.g., two). In the present disclosure, the folding axis (A) is provided along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101), but the direction of the folding axis (A) is not limited thereto. For example (not shown), the electronic device (101) may include a folding axis (A) extending along the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0060] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a structure into which a digital pen can be attached. For example, the electronic device (101) may include a magnetic body configured to attach the digital pen to a side of the first housing (210) or a side of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a structure into which a digital pen can be inserted. For example, a hole (not shown) into which the digital pen can be inserted may be formed in a side of the first housing (210) or a side of the second housing (220) of the electronic device (101).

[0061] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be formed of a metallic or non-metallic material having a rigidity of a size selected to support the display (230). At least a portion formed of the metallic material may provide a ground plane of the electronic device (101) and may be electrically connected to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board (e.g., the board portion (260) of FIG. 4).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the sensor area (224) may be formed to have a predetermined area adjacent to one edge or one corner of the second housing (220). However, the arrangement, shape, and size of the sensor area (224) are not limited to the illustrated example. According to one embodiment, the sensor area (224) may be provided in another corner of the second housing (220) or any area between the upper and lower corners or in the first housing (210). In one embodiment, components for performing various functions built into the electronic device (101) may be exposed to the front of the electronic device (101) through the sensor area (224) or through one or more openings provided in the sensor area (224). In various embodiments, the components may include various types of sensors. The sensor may include, for example, at least one of a front camera, a receiver, or a proximity sensor.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (280) is disposed on one side of the folding axis (A) on the rear surface of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular periphery, and the periphery may be wrapped by the first housing (210). Similarly, the second rear cover (290) is disposed on the other side of the folding axis (A) on the rear surface of the electronic device (101) and may have the periphery wrapped by the second housing (220).

[0064] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (280) and the second rear cover (290) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (A axis). However, the first rear cover (280) and the second rear cover (290) do not necessarily have mutually symmetrical shapes, and according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include the first rear cover (280) and the second rear cover (290) of various shapes.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (280), the second rear cover (290), the first housing (210), and the second housing (220) may form a space in which various components (e.g., a printed circuit board or a battery) of the electronic device (101) may be placed. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device (101). For example, at least a portion of a sub-display (e.g., the sub-display (244) of FIG. 4) may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the first rear cover (280). According to one embodiment, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover (290). In various embodiments, the sensor may include a proximity sensor and / or a camera module (206) (e.g., a rear camera).

[0066] According to one embodiment, a front camera exposed to the front of the electronic device (101) through one or more openings provided in the sensor area (224) or a camera module (206) exposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover (290) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, and / or image signal processors. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be arranged on one side of the electronic device (101).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) to cover internal components (e.g., the hinge assembly (202) of FIG. 4). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may be covered by a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) or exposed to the outside, depending on the state of the electronic device (101) (flat state or folded state).

[0068] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (240) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and may not be exposed. As another example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the hinge cover (240) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). As another example, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the hinge cover (240) may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than that in the fully folded state. In one embodiment, the hinge cover (240) may include a curved surface.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the display (230) may be placed on a space formed by the housing (201). For example, the display (230) may be mounted on a recess formed by the housing (201) and may constitute most of the front surface of the electronic device (101). Accordingly, the front surface of the electronic device (101) may include the display (230), a portion of the first housing (210) adjacent to the display (230) and a portion of the second housing (220). The rear surface of the electronic device (101) may include a first rear cover (280), a portion of the first housing (210) adjacent to the first rear cover (280), a second rear cover (290), and a portion of the second housing (220) adjacent to the second rear cover (290).

[0070] In one embodiment, the display (230) may include a plurality of displays spaced apart from each other. For example, the display (230) may include a first display area (231) disposed on a first housing (210) and a second display area (232) disposed on a second housing (220). In one embodiment, the first display area (231) and the second display area (232) may rotate about a folding axis (A).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the display (230) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. For example, the display (230) may be a foldable or flexible display. According to one embodiment, the display (230) may include a folding area (233), a first display area (231) arranged on one side (e.g., the left side of the folding area (233) illustrated in FIG. 2) with respect to the folding area (233), and a second display area (232) arranged on the other side (e.g., the right side of the folding area (233) illustrated in FIG. 2). However, the division of the areas of the display (230) is exemplary, and the display (230) may be divided into a plurality of areas (e.g., four or more or two) depending on the structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the display (230) may be divided into regions by a folding region (233) extending parallel to the Y-axis or a folding axis (A-axis), but according to one embodiment, the display (230) may also be divided into regions based on another folding region (e.g., a folding region parallel to the X-axis) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the X-axis). According to one embodiment, the display (230) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer (not shown) configured to detect a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first display area (231) and the second display area (232) may have an overall symmetrical shape centered on the folding area (233). According to one embodiment (not shown), the second display area (232), unlike the first display area (231), may include a cut notch depending on the presence of the sensor area (224), but may have a shape symmetrical with respect to the first display area (231) in other areas. For example, the first display area (231) and the second display area (232) may include a portion having a symmetrical shape and a portion having an asymmetrical shape.

[0073] Hereinafter, the operation of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and each area of ​​the display (230) according to the state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., flat state or unfolded state and folded state) will be described.

[0074] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a flat state (e.g., FIG. 2), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged to face the same direction at a substantially 180-degree angle. The surface of the first display area (231) of the display (230) and the surface of the second display area (232) may form a 180-degree angle with each other and face the same direction (e.g., toward the front of the electronic device). The folding area (233) may form the same plane as the first display area (231) and the second display area (232).

[0075] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 3), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged to face each other. The surface of the first display area (231) of the display (230) and the surface of the second display area (232) may form a narrow angle (e.g., between 0 and 10 degrees) with each other and may face each other. The folding area (233) may be formed as a curved surface having at least a portion of a predetermined curvature.

[0076] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an intermediate state (not shown), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to each other. The surface of the first display area (231) of the display (230) and the surface of the second display area (232) may form an angle that is greater than the angle in the folded state and less than the angle in the unfolded state. The folding area (233) may be formed as a curved surface having at least a certain curvature, and the curvature at this time may be less than that in the folded state.

[0077] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (201), a display (230), a hinge assembly (202), a battery (250), and a substrate (260). The housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a first rear cover (280), and a second rear cover (290). The configurations of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the hinge cover (240), the first rear cover (280), and the second rear cover (290) of FIG. 4 may be all or part of the same as the configurations of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the hinge cover (240), the first rear cover (280), and the second rear cover (290) of FIG. 2 and / or FIG. 3.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be assembled to each other so as to be coupled to both sides of the hinge assembly (202). According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) can include a first support area (212) capable of supporting a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first circuit board (262) and / or the first battery (252)) and a first side wall (211) surrounding at least a portion of the first support area (212). The first side wall (211) can include a first side surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first side surface (210c) of FIG. 2). According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second support area (222) capable of supporting a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a second circuit board (264) and / or a second battery (254)) and a second side wall (221) surrounding at least a portion of the second support area (222). The second side wall (221) may include a second side surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the second side surface (220c) of FIG. 2).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the display (230) (e.g., the first display) may include a first display area (231), a second display area (232), a folding area (233), and a sub-display (244) (e.g., the second display). The configuration of the first display area (231), the second display area (232), and the folding area (233) of FIG. 3 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the first display area (231), the second display area (232), and the folding area (233) of FIG. 1 and / or FIG. 2.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the sub-display (244) can display a screen in a different direction from the display areas (231, 232). For example, the sub-display (244) can output a screen in a direction opposite to the first display area (231). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (244) can be disposed on the first rear cover (280).

[0082] In one embodiment, the battery (250) may include a first battery (252) disposed within the first housing (210) and a second battery (254) disposed within the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the first battery (252) may be connected to the first circuit board (262), and the second battery (254) may be connected to the second circuit board (264). In one embodiment, the battery (250) may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (250) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0083] In one embodiment, the substrate (260) may include a first circuit board (262) disposed within a first housing (210) and a second circuit board (264) disposed within a second housing (220). In one embodiment, the first circuit board (262) and the second circuit board (264) may be electrically connected by at least one flexible circuit board (266). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible circuit board (266) may be disposed across the hinge assembly (202). In one embodiment, the first circuit board (262) and the second circuit board (264) may be disposed within a space formed by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the first rear cover (280), and the second rear cover (290). Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device (101) can be placed on the first circuit board (262) and the second circuit board (264).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (202) may include a hinge (2021). The hinge (2021) may rotatably couple the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). A plurality of hinges (2021) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the hinge assembly (202). The hinge assembly (202) may include a support plate (2022). The support plate (2022) may support at least a portion of the display (230). A plurality of support plates (2022) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the hinge assembly (202).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include speakers (208a, 208b). According to one embodiment, the speakers (208a, 208b) may convert electrical signals into sound. According to one embodiment, the speakers (208a, 208b) may be disposed within a space formed by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the first rear cover (280), and the second rear cover (290). According to one embodiment, the speakers (208a, 208b) may include an upper speaker (208a) positioned at the top (+Y direction) of the electronic device (101) and a lower speaker (208b) positioned at the bottom (-Y direction) of the electronic device (101). In the present disclosure, the speakers (208a, 208b) are illustrated as being positioned within one housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 4), but this is an optional structure. For example, the speakers (208a, 208b) may be located within at least one of the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The configuration of the speakers (208a, 208b) of FIG. 4 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the sound output module (155) of FIG. 1.

[0086] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a rear member (270) (or rear case). In one embodiment, the rear member (270) may be disposed within a housing (201) (e.g., a second housing (220)). In one embodiment, the rear member (270) may accommodate at least one antenna (275).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an antenna (275). The antennas (275a, 275b) may include, for example, an ultra wide band (UWB) antenna (275a), a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna (275b). The antenna (275) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0088] In one embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a portion or a combination of the housing (201). For example, the antenna (275) may include a communication antenna (275c) that is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the electronic device (101) and forms at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101). The communication antenna (275c) may be used for communication with an external electronic device (e.g., Wi-Fi). The communication antenna (275c) may be connected to the upper portion (271a) or the lower portion (271b) of the rear member (270).

[0089] In the detailed description below, a configuration in which a pair of housings (or, "housings") are rotatably coupled by a hinge structure (or, "hinge structure") may be exemplified. However, it should be noted that this embodiment does not limit the electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document. For example, the electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may include three or more housings, and "a pair of housings" in the embodiments disclosed below may mean "two housings rotatably coupled to each other among the three or more housings."

[0090] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of some parts of an electronic device (101) (e.g., a display (310), a hinge (320), a hinge cover (330), a plate (340), and a buffer member (350)). The components described with reference to Fig. 5 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4. The components described with reference to Fig. 5 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 6a to 12.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a display (310). The display (310) may be accommodated in a housing (e.g., the housing (201) of FIGS. 2 to 4). The display (310) may display a screen outside of the housing (201). The display (310) may be identical to the display (230) illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the display (310) may include a panel (311). The panel (311) may display a screen externally. The display (310) may include a digitizer (312). The digitizer (312) may be coupled to the panel (311). The digitizer (312) may detect a signal applied from the outside of the display (310) (e.g., a pressure signal of a pen).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the digitizer (312) may include a first digitizer (3121) and a second digitizer (3122). The first digitizer (3121) may be positioned corresponding to the first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 4). The second digitizer (3122) may be positioned corresponding to the second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 4). The first digitizer (3121) and the second digitizer (3122) may be spaced apart from each other.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge (320). A plurality of hinges (320) may be arranged spaced apart from each other. The hinge (320) may be coupled to a housing (e.g., the housing (201) of FIGS. 2 to 4). The hinge (320) may rotatably connect a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 4) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 4). The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may rotate about the hinge (320). For example, the first housing (210) may rotate about the hinge (320) with respect to the second housing (220). The hinge (320) may be a part of the hinge assembly (202) illustrated in FIG. 4. The hinge assembly (202) may include a hinge (320).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge cover (330). At least a portion of the hinge cover (330) may be positioned between a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 4) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 4). At least a portion of the hinge (320) may be accommodated within the hinge cover (330). The hinge cover (330) may be identical to the hinge cover (240) illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a plate (340). The plate (340) may be disposed between the display (310) and the hinge (320). The plate (340) may support the display (310). The plate (340) may be mounted on the hinge (320). The plate (340) may be referred to as a “support plate.” The plate (340) may be referred to as a “support member.” The plate (340) may be referred to as a “support body.” The plate (340) may be referred to as a “wing plate.” The plate (340) may be referred to as a “body.” The plate (340) may be referred to as a “guide member.”

[0097] According to one embodiment, the plate (340) may include a first plate (341) and a second plate (342). The first plate (341) may be positioned corresponding to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 4). The second plate (342) may be positioned corresponding to a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 4). The first plate (341) and the second plate (342) may be spaced apart from each other. The first plate (341) may be positioned between the panel (311) and the hinge (320). The second plate (342) may be positioned between the panel (311) and the hinge (320). The first plate (341) may be named as any one of “the first support plate, the first support member, the first support body, the first wing plate, the first body, or the first guide member.” The second plate (342) may be named as any one of “the second support plate, the second support member, the second support body, the second wing plate, the second body, or the second guide member.”

[0098] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include digitizers (3121, 3122). The digitizers (3121, 3122) may include a first digitizer (3121) and a second digitizer (3122). A first plate (341) may be disposed between the first digitizer (3121) and the hinge (320). A second plate (342) may be disposed between the second digitizer (3122) and the hinge (320).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a buffer member (350). The buffer member (350) may be positioned between the display (310) and the plate (340). The buffer member (350) may be positioned between the digitizer (312) and the plate (340).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (350) may include a first buffer member (351) arranged at a position corresponding to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 4). The buffer member (350) may include a second buffer member (352) arranged at a position corresponding to a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 4). The first buffer member (351) may be arranged between the panel (311) and the first plate (341). The second buffer member (352) may be arranged between the panel (311) and the second plate (342). The first buffer member (351) and the second buffer member (352) may be spaced apart from each other.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the plate (340) may include portions (M1, M2, M3) corresponding to the hinge (320). The portions (M1, M2, M3) of the plate (340) and the hinge (320) may face each other in one direction (e.g., the +Z direction of FIG. 4).

[0102] FIG. 6A is a drawing showing a state in which plates (341, 342) are arranged in a housing (390) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6B is a drawing showing a state in which the plates (341, 342) are removed from the state of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6C is a rear view of the digitizer (312) with the plates (341, 342) coupled. FIG. 6D is a drawing explaining the relationship between the hinge (320) and the plate (330). FIG. 6A is a drawing of the electronic device (101) with the display (e.g., the display (231, 232) of FIG. 2) removed, viewed in one direction (e.g., the -Z direction of FIG. 4). (a) illustrated in FIG. 6D is a top view of the plate (340) with the hinge (320) coupled. (b) illustrated in FIG. 6D is a top view of the plate (340). (c) shown in Fig. 6d is a rear view of the plate (340). (d) shown in Fig. 6d is an enlarged view of a specific region (M1, M2, M3) of (c) shown in Fig. 6d. The components described with reference to Figs. 6a to 6d may be partly or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 5. The components described with reference to Figs. 6a to 6d may be partly or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 7a to 12.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (390). The housing (390) may be identical to the housing (201) illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4. A display (e.g., display (310) of FIG. 5) may be accommodated in the housing (390).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the housing (390) may include a first housing (391) and a second housing (392). The first housing (391) and the second housing (392) may be rotatably coupled to each other. A hinge (320) may rotatably connect the first housing (391) and the second housing (392). At least a portion of the hinge (320) may be disposed between the first housing (391) and the second housing (392). At least a portion of the hinge cover (330) may be disposed between the first housing (391) and the second housing (392). The first housing (391) may be identical to the first housing (210) illustrated in FIG. 4. The second housing (392) may be identical to the second housing (220) illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a flexible circuit board (366). The flexible circuit board (366) may be the same as the flexible circuit board (266) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. The flexible circuit board (366) may connect a first circuit board (e.g., the first circuit board (262) of FIG. 4) disposed in a first housing (391) and a second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board (264) of FIG. 4) disposed in a second housing (392). At least a portion of the flexible circuit board (366) may be disposed within a hinge housing (e.g., the hinge housing (330) of FIG. 5). The flexible circuit board (366) may be disposed between a plurality of hinges (320).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be divided into a first region (E1, E2, E3) in which a hinge (320) is arranged and a second region (F) in which a flexible circuit board (366) is arranged. The first region (E1, E2, E3) and the second region (F) may be arranged along the longitudinal direction (e.g., +Y direction) of the plate (340). The first region (E1, E2, E3) may overlap with the first part (M1, M2, M3) of the plate (340). The second region (F) may overlap with the second part (N1, N2) of the plate (340).

[0107] According to one embodiment, a first digitizer (e.g., a first digitizer (3121) of FIG. 5) may be disposed in a first housing (391). A second digitizer (e.g., a second digitizer (3122) of FIG. 5) may be disposed in a second housing (392). A first plate (341) may be disposed in the first housing (391). A second plate (342) may be disposed in the second housing (392). A first buffer member (e.g., a first buffer member (351) of FIG. 5) may be disposed in the first housing (391). A second buffer member (e.g., a second buffer member (352) of FIG. 5) may be disposed in the second housing (392).

[0108] According to one embodiment, a folding axis (FX) may be formed between a first housing (391) and a second housing (392). The first housing (391) may be rotated relative to the second housing (392) about the folding axis (FX). The second housing (392) may be rotated relative to the first housing (391) about the folding axis (FX). The folding axis (FX) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the hinge cover (330) (e.g., +Y or -Y direction). The folding axis (FX) may be formed parallel to the rotational axis of the hinge (320). The folding axis (FX) may be formed between the first plate (341) and the second plate (342). The folding axis (FX) may be formed between a first digitizer (e.g., the first digitizer (3121) of FIG. 5) and a second digitizer (e.g., the second digitizer (3122) of FIG. 5). The folding axis (FX) may be formed between a first buffer member (e.g., the first buffer member (351) of FIG. 5) and a second buffer member (e.g., the second buffer member (352) of FIG. 5).

[0109] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of each of the hinge (320) and the hinge cover (330) may be disposed between the first housing (391) and the second housing (392). A plurality of hinges (320) may be disposed spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the hinge cover (330) (e.g., +Y or -Y direction). The plurality of hinges (320) may be spaced apart from each other along the folding axis (FX). The plurality of hinges (320) may be arranged in the extension direction of the folding axis (FX).

[0110] According to one embodiment, the hinge (320) may include a hinge body (321). The hinge body (321) may be disposed between the first housing (391) and the second housing (392). The hinge body (321) may be accommodated within the hinge cover (330). The folding axis (FX) may extend through the hinge body (321).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the hinge (320) may include a first hinge arm (322). The first hinge arm (322) may be rotatably coupled to a hinge body (321). The first hinge arm (322) may be coupled to a first housing (391). The first hinge arm (322) may be rotated together with the first housing (391) about the folding axis (FX). A first plate (341) may be mounted on the first hinge arm (322). The first plate (341) may be arranged to correspond to the first hinge arm (322). The first hinge arm (322) may face the first plate (341) in one direction (e.g., the +Z direction).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the hinge (320) may include a second hinge arm (323). The second hinge arm (323) may be rotatably coupled to the hinge body (321). The second hinge arm (323) may be coupled to a second housing (392). The second hinge arm (323) may be rotated together with the second housing (392) about the folding axis (FX). A second plate (342) may be mounted on the second hinge arm (323). The second plate (342) may be arranged to correspond to the second hinge arm (323). The second hinge arm (323) may face the second plate (342) in one direction (e.g., the +Z direction).

[0113] In one embodiment, a plate (340) may be disposed between a digitizer (312) and hinge arms (322, 323). The digitizer (312) may be mounted on the plate (340) and coupled with the plate (340). A first plate (341) may be disposed between a first digitizer (3121) and a first hinge arm (322). A second plate (342) may be disposed between a second digitizer (3122) and a second hinge arm (323).

[0114] According to one embodiment, the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) can be spaced apart from each other. The folding axis (FX) can pass between the first plate (341) and the second plate (342).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the plate (340) may overlap the hinge (320) in one direction (e.g., +Z direction). The plurality of hinges (320) may be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the plate (340) (e.g., +Y or -Y direction). The first plate (341) may overlap the first hinge arm (322) in the first direction (e.g., +Z direction), and the second plate (342) may overlap the second hinge arm (323) in the first direction (e.g., +Z direction). The plate (340) may include an overlapping portion (S) overlapping the hinge (320). The overlapping portion (S) may be a part of the plate (340) facing the hinge (320). A plurality of overlapping portions (S) may be formed to correspond to each of the plurality of hinges (320). For example, a plurality of hinges (320) may be arranged spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the plate (340) (e.g., +Y or -Y direction), and the overlapping portion (S) may be divided into a plurality of portions (M1, M2, M3) spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the plate (340) (e.g., +Y or -Y direction). Three hinges (320) may be arranged spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the plate (340), but the number of hinges (320) is not limited thereto.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the plate (340) may include a first portion (M1, M2, M3) that overlaps the hinge (320). The first portion (M1, M2, M3) may face the hinge (320) in one direction (e.g., in the -Z direction). The plate (340) may include a second portion (N1, N2) that does not overlap the hinge (320). The second portion (N1, N2) may be positioned to be misaligned with the hinge (320) in one direction (e.g., in the -Z direction). The flexible circuit board (366) may be positioned to overlap the second portion (N1, N2) in one direction (e.g., in the -Z direction).

[0117] According to one embodiment, in the first portion (M1, M2, M3), the first gap (G1) between the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) may be greater than the second gap (G2) between the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) in the second portion (N1, N2).

[0118] According to one embodiment, in the first portion (M1, M2, M3), the end portion of the first plate (341) may have an inclined shape (e.g., an inclined shape of the first edge portion (3412)) as illustrated in FIG. 7A. In the first portion (M1, M2, M3), the end portion of the second plate (342) may have an inclined shape (e.g., an inclined shape of the second edge portion (3422)) as illustrated in FIG. 7A.

[0119] According to one embodiment, in the second portion (N1, N2), the end portion of the first plate (341) may not have an inclined shape as illustrated in FIG. 7B. For example, referring to FIG. 7B, the end portion (3419) of the first plate (341) may have a surface that is orthogonal to the direction in which the first plate (341) extends. In the second portion (N1, N2), the end portion of the second plate (342) may not have an inclined shape as illustrated in FIG. 7B. For example, referring to FIG. 7B, the end portion (3429) of the second plate (342) may have a surface that is orthogonal to the direction in which the second plate (342) extends.

[0120] In one embodiment, the plate (340) may include a body portion (3411, 3421). The body portions (3411, 3421) may be mounted on a hinge (320). The body portions (3411, 3421) may be a part of the plate (340). The first plate (341) may include a first body portion (3411). The first body portion (3411) may be mounted on a first hinge arm (322). The second plate (342) may include a second body portion (3421). The second body portion (3421) may be mounted on a second hinge arm (323).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the plate (340) may include edge portions (3412, 3422). The edge portions (3412, 3422) may extend from the body portions (3411, 3421) toward the folding axis (FX). The edge portions (3412, 3422) may be integral with the body portions (3411, 3421). The first plate (341) may include a first edge portion (3412). The first edge portion (3412) may extend from the first body portion (3411) toward the folding axis (FX). The first edge portion (3412) may extend from the first body portion (3411) toward the second plate (342). The second edge portion (3422) may extend from the second body portion (3421) toward the folding axis (FX). The second edge portion (3422) may extend from the second body portion (3421) toward the first plate (341). The first edge portion (3412) and the second edge portion (3422) may be spaced apart from each other. The first edge portion (3412) and the second edge portion (3422) may face each other with the folding axis (FX) therebetween.

[0122] FIG. 7a is a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A' reference line in a state where the components (e.g., display (310), hinge (320), hinge cover (330), plate (340), and buffer member (350)) illustrated in FIG. 5 are assembled. FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B' reference line illustrated in FIG. 6d in a state where the components (e.g., display (310), hinge (320), hinge cover (330), plate (340), and buffer member (350)) illustrated in FIG. 5 are assembled. The components described with reference to FIGS. 7a and 7b may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6d. The components described with reference to FIGS. 7a and 7b may be partly or entirely the same as the components described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 12.

[0123] Fig. 7a may be a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A' reference line in the first part (M1, M2, M3) illustrated in Fig. 6d. Fig. 7b may be a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B' reference line in the second part (N1, N2) illustrated in Fig. 6d.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the hinge body (321) may be accommodated inside the hinge cover (330). The hinge body (321) may be fixed to the hinge cover (330). A portion of each of the first hinge arm (322) and the second hinge arm (323) may be surrounded by the hinge cover (330). The first hinge arm (322) and the second hinge arm (323) may be spaced apart from each other, and the folding axis (FX) may pass between the first hinge arm (322) and the second hinge arm (323).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the first plate (341) can be mounted on the first hinge arm (322). The second plate (342) can be mounted on the second hinge arm (323). The first plate (341) and the second plate (342) can be spaced apart from each other, and the folding axis (FX) can pass between the first plate (341) and the second plate (342).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the first buffer member (351) may be disposed between the first digitizer (3121) and the first plate (341). The second buffer member (352) may be disposed between the second digitizer (3122) and the second plate (342). The first buffer member (351) and the second buffer member (352) may be spaced apart from each other, and the folding axis (FX) may pass between the first buffer member (351) and the second buffer member (352).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the first digitizer (3121) may be disposed between the first buffer member (351) and the panel (311). The second digitizer (3122) may be disposed between the second buffer member (352) and the panel (311). The first digitizer (3121) and the second digitizer (3122) may be spaced apart from each other, and the folding axis (FX) may pass between the first digitizer (3121) and the second digitizer (3122).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the digitizer (e.g., the digitizer (312) of FIG. 5) may be formed as an integral part. For example, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 5, which is divided into a first digitizer (3121) and a second digitizer (3122), the digitizer (312) may be formed as an integral part and correspond to the entire area of ​​the panel (311) without any cut portions.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the panel (311) may include a first layer (3111) and a second layer (3112). The first layer (3111) and the second layer (3112) may be laminated to each other. The first layer (3111) may display a screen. The second layer (3112) may be disposed between the first layer (3111) and the plates (341, 342). The second layer (3112) may be a metal layer having a lattice shape. The second layer (3112) may supplement the rigidity of the deformable first layer (3111). For example, the second layer (3112) may cushion an impact applied to the first layer (3111). The second layer (3112) may support the first layer (3111). The second layer (3112) may be named a "reinforcement layer." The second layer (3112) may be named a "lattice layer."

[0130] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a folding space (FS). The folding space (FS) may be formed between a first hinge arm (322) and a second hinge arm (323). The folding space (FS) may be formed between a first plate (341) and a second plate (342). The folding space (FS) may be formed between a first buffer member (351) and a second buffer member (352). The folding space (FS) may be formed between a first digitizer (3121) and a second digitizer (3122). The first edge portion (3412) and the second edge portion (3422) may face each other with the folding space (FS) therebetween. The folding axis (FX) may pass through the folding space (FS). The folding space (FS) may be a space formed between a first housing (e.g., the first housing (391) of FIG. 6A) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (392) of FIG. 6A). The first housing (391) and the second housing (392) may be rotated around the folding axis (FX), and the space required for rotation may utilize the folding space (FS).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a panel (311), a plate (340), hinge arms (322, 323), a hinge housing (330), and a housing (391, 392). The above-described components (e.g., the panel (311), the plate (340), the hinge arms (322, 323), the hinge housing (330), the housing (391, 392)) may be stacked in one direction (e.g., the -Z direction) in the mentioned order. The electronic device (101) may not include a digitizer (3121, 3122) or a buffer layer (351, 352).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first edge portion (3412) may extend from the first body portion (3411) toward the folding space (FS). The first edge portion (3412) may be positioned between the first digitizer (3121) and the first hinge arm (322). The first edge portion (3412) may face the second edge portion (3422).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the second edge portion (3422) may extend from the second body portion (3421) toward the folding space (FS). The second edge portion (3422) may be positioned between the second digitizer (3122) and the second hinge arm (323). The second edge portion (3422) may face the first edge portion (3421).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the second edge portion (3422) may extend obliquely from the second body portion (3421). The second edge portion (3422) may be inclined toward the folding space (FS). The second edge portion (3422) may be inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the folding axis (FX) (e.g., +Z direction). The second edge portion (3422) may be inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) are spaced apart (e.g., +X direction). The second edge portion (3422) may have an inclination angle (θ2) with respect to the direction in which the first plate (341) and the second plate (3422) are spaced apart (e.g., +X direction). The inclination angle (θ2) may be formed between the second edge portion (3422) and the second hinge arm (323). The second edge portion (3422) may be inclined so as to get closer to the display (310) as it approaches the folding space (FS). The second edge portion (3422) may include a second inclined surface (3422a) that faces at least a portion of the second hinge arm (323). The second edge portion (3422) may include a second inclined surface (3422a) that faces at least a portion of the hinge body (321).

[0135] Referring to FIG. 7b, the ends of the plates (341, 342) in the second portion (e.g., the second portion (N1, N2) of FIG. 6d) may not be inclined. The flexible circuit board (366) may be disposed in the second portion (N1, N2). The first plate (341) and the second plate (342) may cover at least a portion of the flexible circuit board (366). The first plate (341) may include a first plate portion (3418) and a first plate end portion (3419). The first plate end portion (3419) may protrude from the first plate portion (3418) toward the folding area (FS). The first plate end portion (3419) may have a surface that is orthogonal to the direction in which the first plate (341) extends. The second plate (342) may include a second plate portion (3428) and a second plate end portion (3429). The second plate end portion (3429) may protrude from the second plate portion (3428) toward the folding area (FS). The second plate end portion (3429) may have a surface that is orthogonal to the direction in which the second plate (342) extends. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plate end portion (3419) and the second plate end portion (3429) may have a curved shape.

[0136] Fig. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of Fig. 7a. The components described with reference to Fig. 8 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 7b. The components described with reference to Fig. 8 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to Figs. 9 to 12.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first edge portion (3412) may extend obliquely from the first body portion (3411). The first edge portion (3412) may be inclined toward the folding space (FS). The first edge portion (3412) may be inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the folding axis (FX) (e.g., +Z direction). The first edge portion (3412) may be inclined with respect to a direction in which the first hinge arm (322) and the flexible display (310) are spaced apart (e.g., +Z direction). The first edge portion (3412) may be inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) are spaced apart (e.g., +X direction). The first edge portion (3412) may have an inclination angle (θ1) with respect to the direction in which the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) are spaced apart (e.g., +X direction). According to one embodiment, the first edge portion (3412) may be formed so that the width of the first edge portion (3412) gradually narrows with respect to the direction in which the first plate (341) and the second plate (e.g., the second plate (342) of FIG. 7A) are spaced apart (e.g., +X direction). An inclination angle (θ1) may be formed between the first edge portion (3412) and the first hinge arm (322). The first edge portion (3412) may be inclinable so as to get closer to the display (310) as it approaches the folding space (FS). The first edge portion (3412) may include a first inclined surface (3412a) at least partially facing the first hinge arm (322). The first edge portion (3412) may include a first inclined surface (3412a) at least partially facing the hinge body (321).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the first plate (341) may be mounted on the first hinge arm (322). The first hinge arm (322) may include a first portion (3221), a protruding portion (3222), and a second portion (3223). The first portion (3221) may be spaced apart from the first plate (341). The protruding portion (3222) may connect the first portion (3221) and the second portion (3223). The first plate (341) may be mounted on the second portion (3223).

[0139] In one embodiment, the first plate (341) may include a bending portion (3413). The bending portion (3413) may connect the first body portion (3411) and the first edge portion (3412). The bending portion (3413) may be in contact with the second portion (3223). The first edge portion (3412) may extend obliquely from the bending portion (3413). The bending portion (3413) may be positioned between the protruding portion (3222) and the hinge arm side surface (322a). The bending portion (3413) may be referred to as a “boundary portion,” a “curved portion,” or an “edge start portion.” The bending portion (3413) may form a boundary between the first body portion (3411) and the first edge portion (3412). The banding portion (3413) may include a curved portion between the first body portion (3411) and the first edge portion (3412). The banding portion (3413) may be a part of the first plate (341) and may constitute at least a portion of the first body portion (3411) and the first edge portion (3412) that are formed integrally. The first inclined surface (3412a) may face the second portion (3223) of the first hinge arm (322).

[0140] According to one embodiment, the first hinge arm (322) may include a hinge arm side surface (322a) facing the folding space (FS). The first plate (341) may include a first inclined surface (3412a) facing the folding space (FS). The first buffer member (351) may include a buffer member surface (351a) facing the folding space (FS). The first digitizer (3121) may include a digitizer surface (3121a) facing the folding space (FS). The first inclined surface (3412a) may be positioned to protrude further in one direction (e.g., in the +X direction) than the buffer member surface (351a). The digitizer surface (3121a) may be positioned to protrude further in one direction (e.g., in the +X direction) than the first inclined surface (3412a). The first digitizer (3121) may protrude further toward the folding space (FS) than the first plate (341). The first inclined surface (3412a) and the hinge arm side surface (322a) may be aligned along a direction parallel to the folding axis (FX) (e.g., +Z direction).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the distance (D4) from the protruding portion (3222) to the hinge arm side surface (322a) may be in a range of 0.7 mm to 0.9 mm. The distance (D4) from the protruding portion (3222) to the hinge arm side surface (322a) may be 0.8 mm. The distance (D4) from the protruding portion (3222) to the first inclined surface (3412a) may be in a range of 0.7 mm to 0.9 mm. The distance from the protruding portion (3222) to the first inclined surface (3412a) may be 0.8 mm. The distance (D2) from the banding portion (3413) to the end portion of the first inclined surface (3412a) may be in a range of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm. The distance (D2) from the banding portion (3413) to the end portion of the first inclined surface (3412a) may be 0.15 mm. The distance (D1) from the protruding portion (3222) to the banding portion (3413) may be in the range of 0.6 mm to 0.7 mm. The distance (D1) from the protruding portion (3222) to the banding portion (3413) may be 0.65 mm. The distance (D3) from the end portion of the first inclined surface (3412a) to the digitizer surface (3121a) may be smaller than the distance (D4) from the protruding portion (3222) to the end portion of the first inclined surface (3412a). The thickness (H) of the first edge portion (3412) in the direction parallel to the folding axis (FX) may be in the range of 0.35 mm to 0.45 mm. The thickness (H) of the first edge portion (3412) in the direction parallel to the folding axis (FX) may be 0.4 mm. The numerical values ​​of the above-described components (e.g., D1, D2, D3, D4, H) are not limited to the above-described range. For example, the numerical values ​​of the above-described components (e.g., D1, D2, D3, D4, H) are not limited to the above-described range and may have numerical values ​​outside the above-described range.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the description of the first plate (341) described above may be equally applied to the second plate (342) illustrated in FIG. 7A. For example, the second plate (342) may include a second body portion (3421), a second edge portion (3422), a banding portion, and a second inclined surface (3422a). For example, the description of the positional relationship (e.g., D1, D2, D3, D4, H) among the second plate (342), the second hinge arm (323), the second buffer member (352), and the second digitizer (3122) may be equally applied to the description of the positional relationship among the above-described components (e.g., the first plate (341), the first hinge arm (322), the first buffer member (351), and the first digitizer (3121)).

[0143] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a portion of a cross-section of an electronic device (101) when a load is applied to the display (310). The components described with reference to FIG. 9 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. The components described with reference to FIG. 9 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12.

[0144] According to one embodiment, when a load (W) is placed on the display (310), the display (310) can bend downward (e.g., in the -Z direction). A portion of the display (310) can bend toward the folding space (FS). At least a portion of the panel (311) of the display (310) can bend toward the space between the first plate (341) and the second plate (342). The plates (341, 342) and the buffer members (351, 352) can support the display (310). When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the first inclined surface (3412a) can move toward the first hinge arm (322). When the load (W) is applied to the display (310), the first inclined surface (3412a) can come into contact with the first hinge arm (322). When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the second inclined surface (3422a) can move toward the second hinge arm (323). When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the second inclined surface (3422a) can come into contact with the second hinge arm (323). The first edge portion (3412) can include a flexible material. The second edge portion (3422) can include a flexible material. When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the first buffer member (351) can be compressed in a direction in which the display (310) is deformed. When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the second buffer member (352) can be compressed in a direction in which the display (310) is deformed. When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the thickness of the buffer member (351, 352) may be deformed. The buffer member (351, 352) may include a flexible material. When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the first edge portion (3412) may be deformed along the first direction (R1).The first edge portion (3412) may include a deformable material, and may be deformed toward the hinge arm (322) when a load (W) is applied to the display (310). When the load (W) is applied to the display (310), the first inclined surface (3412a) of the first edge portion (3412) may be deformed to be aligned parallel to one surface of the first body portion (3411). When the load (W) is applied to the display (310), the second edge portion (3422) may be deformed along the second direction (R2). The second edge portion (3422) may include a deformable material, and may be deformed toward the hinge arm (323) when the load (W) is applied to the display (310). When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the second inclined surface (3422a) of the second edge portion (3422) can be deformed to be arranged parallel to one surface of the second body portion (3421). When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the first hinge arm (322) can support the first plate (341) including the first inclined surface (3412a). When a load (W) is applied to the display (310), the second hinge arm (323) can support the second plate (342) including the second inclined surface (3422a).

[0145] FIG. 10 is an embodiment of a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A' reference line, in which the components illustrated in FIG. 5 (e.g., a display (310), a hinge (320), a hinge cover (330), a plate (340), and a buffer member (350)) are assembled. The components described with reference to FIG. 10 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9. The components described with reference to FIG. 10 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first plate (441) and a second plate (442). The description of the first plate (441) and the second plate (442) may be identical to the description of the plates (341, 342) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the first plate (441) may include a first body portion (4411) and a first edge portion (4412). The first edge portion (4412) may extend from the first body portion (4411) toward the folding space (FS). The first edge portion (4412) may be positioned between the first digitizer (3121) and the first hinge arm (322). The first edge portion (4412) may face the second edge portion (4422).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the second plate (442) may include a second body portion (4421) and a second edge portion (4422). The second edge portion (4422) may extend from the second body portion (4421) toward the folding space (FS). The second edge portion (4422) may be positioned between the second digitizer (3122) and the second hinge arm (323). The second edge portion (4422) may face the first edge portion (4421).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the first edge portion (4412) may extend obliquely from the first body portion (4411). The first edge portion (4412) may be inclined toward the folding space (FS). The first edge portion (4412) may be inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the folding axis (FX) (e.g., +Z direction). The first edge portion (4412) may be inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate (441) and the second plate (442) are spaced apart (e.g., +X direction). The first edge portion (4412) may have an inclination angle (θ3) with respect to the direction in which the first plate (441) and the second plate (442) are spaced apart (e.g., +X direction). The first edge portion (4412) may be inclined so as to be further from the display (310) as it approaches the folding space (FS). The first edge portion (4412) may include a first inclined surface (4412a) at least partially facing the first digitizer (3121). The first edge portion (4412) may include a first inclined surface (4412a) at least partially facing the display (310).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the second edge portion (4422) may extend obliquely from the second body portion (4421). The second edge portion (4422) may be inclined toward the folding space (FS). The second edge portion (4422) may be inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the folding axis (FX) (e.g., +Z direction). The second edge portion (4422) may be inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate (441) and the second plate (442) are spaced apart (e.g., -X direction). The first edge portion (4422) may have an inclination angle (θ4) with respect to the direction in which the first plate (441) and the second plate (4422) are spaced apart (e.g., +X direction). The second edge portion (4422) may be inclined so as to be further from the display (310) as it approaches the folding space (FS). The second edge portion (4422) may include a second inclined surface (4422a) at least partially facing the second digitizer (3122). The second edge portion (4422) may include a second inclined surface (4422a) at least partially facing the display (310).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include buffer members (451, 452). The buffer members (451, 452) may include a first buffer member (451) disposed between a first digitizer (3121) and a first plate (441) and a second buffer member (452) disposed between a second digitizer (3122) and a second plate (442). The first buffer member (451) may be spaced apart from a first inclined surface (4412a) in a direction away from the folding space (FS). The second buffer member (452) may be spaced apart from a second inclined surface (4422a) in a direction away from the folding space (FS). The width (w1) of the first buffer member (451) may be smaller than the width of the first buffer member (351) described with reference to FIG. 7A. The width (w2) of the second buffer member (452) may be smaller than the width of the second buffer member (352) described with reference to FIG. 7a.

[0152] Fig. 11 is a drawing of a structure in which a hinge (520), a plate (540), a support bar (570), and a connector (560) are assembled according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B' reference line illustrated in Fig. 11. The components described with reference to Figs. 11 and 12 may be partially or entirely the same as the components described with reference to Figs. 1 to 10.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge (520). The hinge (520) may be identical to the hinge (320) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. For example, the hinge (520) may include a hinge body (521), a first hinge arm (522), and a second hinge arm (533).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a plate (540). The plate (540) may be identical to the plate (340) described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. For example, the plate (540) may include a first plate (541) and a second plate (542) spaced apart from each other.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a support bar (570). The support bar (570) may be positioned between the first plate (541) and the second plate (542). The electronic device (101) may include a connector (560). The connector (560) may connect the support bar (570) and the hinge cover (530).

[0156] In one embodiment, the first plate (541) may be mounted on the first hinge arm (522). The second plate (542) may be mounted on the second hinge arm (523). The first plate (541) may include a first body portion (5411) and a first edge portion (5412) having a first inclined surface (5412a). The second plate (542) may include a second body portion (5421) and a second edge portion (5422) having a second inclined surface (5422a).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the first inclined surface (5412a) may be inclined toward the support bar (570). According to one example, the first inclined surface (5412a) may be formed in a form in which the width of the first edge portion (5412) gradually decreases toward the support bar (570). The first inclined surface (5412a) may face the support bar (570). The first inclined surface (5412a) may be inclined with respect to the direction in which the first plate (541) and the support bar (570) are spaced apart. The first inclined surface (5412a) may have an inclination angle (θ5) with respect to the direction in which the first plate (541) and the support bar (570) are spaced apart. According to one embodiment, the inclination angle may be formed at an upper or lower portion of the first edge (5412).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the second inclined surface (5422a) can be inclined toward the support bar (570). The second inclined surface (5422a) can face the support bar (570). The second inclined surface (5422a) can be inclined with respect to the direction in which the second plate (542) and the support bar (570) are spaced apart. The second inclined surface (5422a) can have an inclination angle (θ6) with respect to the direction in which the second plate (542) and the support bar (570) are spaced apart.

[0159] An electronic device may include a first housing and a second housing that are rotatably coupled to each other. The electronic device may include a flexible display disposed in the first housing and the second housing, at least a portion of which is deformable. When a load is applied to the flexible display, the flexible display may bend into the interior space of the housing. If a structure supporting the flexible display is absent, the flexible display may be damaged due to deformation of the flexible display.

[0160] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure may be to support a flexible display.

[0161] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure may be to manufacture a shape of a support structure according to the deformation direction of a flexible display.

[0162] The problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0163] An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can support a flexible display by arranging a plate having an inclined end.

[0164] An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can support a flexible display by aligning the direction of the inclined surface of the plate with the deformation direction of the flexible display.

[0165] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0166] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing (e.g., 391 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0167] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may include a second housing (e.g., 392 of FIGS. 1 to 12) rotatably coupled to the first housing (e.g., 391 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0168] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge (e.g., 320 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) including a first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) connected to the first housing (e.g., 391 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and a second hinge arm (e.g., 323 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) connected to the second housing (e.g., 392 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0169] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) mounted in the first housing (e.g., 391 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the second housing (e.g., 392 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0170] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) mounted in the first housing (e.g., 391 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the second housing (e.g., 392 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and spaced apart from each of the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the second hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0171] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) disposed between the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0172] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) disposed between the second hinge arm (e.g., 323 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and spaced apart from the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0173] A first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first edge portion (e.g., 3412 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) having a first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) inclined with respect to the direction in which the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) are spaced apart from each other.

[0174] A first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first edge portion (e.g., 3412 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) having a first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) inclined with respect to the direction in which the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) are spaced apart from each other.

[0175] The second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second edge portion (e.g., 3422 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) having a second inclined surface (e.g., 3422a of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) inclined with respect to the direction in which the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) are spaced apart from each other.

[0176] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first edge portion (e.g., 3412 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second edge portion (e.g., 3422 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may face each other in a direction in which the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12) are spaced apart from each other.

[0177] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a of FIGS. 1 to 12) may face the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0178] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an angle of inclination (e.g., θ1 in FIGS. 1 to 12) may be formed between the first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a in FIGS. 1 to 12) and the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 in FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0179] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge cover (e.g., 330 of FIGS. 1 to 12) that accommodates at least a portion of the hinge (e.g., 320 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0180] At least a portion of the first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a of FIGS. 1 to 12) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may face the hinge cover (e.g., 330 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0181] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may include a first portion (e.g., 3221 of FIGS. 1 to 12) spaced apart from the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0182] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may include a protruding portion (e.g., 3222 of FIGS. 1 to 12) extending from the first portion (e.g., 3221 of FIGS. 1 to 12) toward the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0183] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may include a second portion (e.g., 3223 of FIGS. 1 to 12) on which the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12) is mounted and which faces the first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0184] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a folding space (e.g., FS of FIGS. 1 to 12) in which the flexible display is deformed may be formed between the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0185] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a of FIGS. 1 to 12) may be inclined toward the folding space (e.g., FS of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0186] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a of FIGS. 1 to 12) may be inclined closer to the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12) as it faces the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0187] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a buffer member (e.g., 350 of FIGS. 1 to 12) disposed between the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0188] The flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a panel (e.g., 311 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0189] The flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first digitizer (e.g., 3121 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) disposed between the panel (e.g., 311 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and facing the first edge portion (e.g., 3412 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0190] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first inclined surface (e.g., 4412a of FIGS. 1 to 12) may face the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0191] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a folding space (e.g., FS of FIGS. 1 to 12) in which the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12) is deformed may be formed between the first plate (e.g., 441 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second plate (e.g., 442 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0192] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first inclined surface (e.g., 4412a of FIGS. 1 to 12) may be inclined closer to the first hinge arm (e.g., 322 of FIGS. 1 to 12) as it moves toward the folding space (e.g., FS of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0193] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a support bar (e.g., 570 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) disposed between the first plate (e.g., 541 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the second plate (e.g., 542 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and facing the first inclined surface (e.g., 5412a of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0194] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first inclined surface (e.g., 5412a of FIGS. 1 to 12) may be inclined in a direction away from the first hinge arm (e.g., 522 of FIGS. 1 to 12) as it moves toward the support bar (e.g., 570 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0195] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12) mounted in the first housing (e.g., 391 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second housing (e.g., 392 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and formed such that at least a portion thereof is deformable.

[0196] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge (e.g., 320 of FIGS. 1 to 12) that rotatably connects the first housing (e.g., 391 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second housing (e.g., 392 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0197] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) disposed between the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the hinge (e.g., 320 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0198] An electronic device (e.g., 101 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) disposed between the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the hinge (e.g., 320 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and spaced apart from the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ).

[0199] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a folding space (e.g., FS of FIGS. 1 to 12) in which the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12) is deformed may be formed between the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0200] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may include an edge portion (e.g., 3412, 3422 of FIGS. 1 to 12) inclined toward the folding space (e.g., FS of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0201] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may include a first inclined surface (e.g., 3412a of FIGS. 1 to 12) inclined with respect to the direction in which the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12) and the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12) are spaced apart.

[0202] The second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second inclined surface (e.g., 3422a of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) inclined with respect to the direction in which the first plate (e.g., 341 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) and the second plate (e.g., 342 of FIGS. 1 to 12 ) are spaced apart from each other.

[0203] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the edge portion (e.g., 3412, 3422 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may include an inclined surface (e.g., 3412a, 3422a of FIGS. 1 to 12) facing the hinge (e.g., 320 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0204] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the edge portion (e.g., 3412, 3422 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may be configured to be deformable toward the hinge (e.g., 320 of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the edge portion (e.g., 4412, 4422 of FIGS. 1 to 12) may include an inclined surface (e.g., 4412a, 4422a of FIGS. 1 to 12) that gets closer to the flexible display (e.g., 310 of FIGS. 1 to 12) as it faces the folding space (e.g., FS of FIGS. 1 to 12).

[0206] Although the detailed description of this document has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this document.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), 1st housing (391); A second housing (392) rotatably arranged with respect to the first housing (391); A hinge (320) including a first hinge arm (322) connected to the first housing (391) and a second hinge arm (323) connected to the second housing (392); A flexible display (310) mounted on the first housing (391) and the second housing (392) and spaced apart from each of the first hinge arm (322) and the second hinge arm (322); A first plate (341) arranged between the first hinge arm (322) and the flexible display (310); and A second plate (342) is disposed between the second hinge arm (323) and the flexible display (310) and is spaced apart from the first plate (341). The above first plate (341) is, An electronic device (101) including a first edge portion (3412) having a first inclined surface (3412a) inclined with respect to the direction in which the first hinge arm (322) and the flexible display (310) are spaced apart.

2. In paragraph 1, The above second plate (342) is, An electronic device including a second edge portion (3422) having a second inclined surface (3422a) inclined with respect to the direction in which the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) are spaced apart.

3. In paragraph 2, The above first edge portion (3412) and the above second edge portion (3422) are An electronic device in which the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) face each other in a spaced direction.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, At least a portion of the first slope (3412a) An electronic device facing the first hinge arm (322).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, An electronic device in which an angle of inclination (θ1) is formed between the first inclined surface (3412a) and the first hinge arm (322).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, Further comprising a hinge cover (330) configured to accommodate at least a portion of the above hinge (320), An electronic device in which at least a portion of the first inclined surface (3412a) faces the hinge cover (330).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above first hinge arm (322) is A first portion (3221) spaced apart from the first plate (341); A protruding portion (3222) extending from the first portion (3221) toward the first plate (341); and An electronic device including a second portion (3223) on which the first plate (341) is mounted and facing the first inclined surface (3412a).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The flexible display further includes a folding space (FS) formed between the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) in which the display is deformed. The above first slope (3412a) is An electronic device inclined toward the above folding space (FS).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above first slope (3412a) is An electronic device configured to slope closer to the flexible display (310) from one end to the other end.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, An electronic device comprising a flexible material and further comprising a buffer member (350) disposed between the flexible display (310) and the first plate (341).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above flexible display (310) is panel (311); and An electronic device including a first digitizer (3121) disposed between the panel (311) and the first plate (341) and facing the first edge portion (3412).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above first slope (4412a) is An electronic device facing in a direction opposite to the direction in which the first hinge arm (322) is arranged with respect to the first plate (441).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The flexible display (310) formed between the first plate (441) and the second plate (442) further includes a folding space (FS) in which it is deformed. The above first slope (4412a) is An electronic device configured so that the first inclined surface approaches the folding space (FS) and is inclined closer to the first hinge arm (322).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, An electronic device further comprising a support bar (570) disposed between the first plate (541) and the second plate (542) and facing the first inclined surface (5412a).

15. In paragraph 14, The above first slope (5412a) is An electronic device configured to tilt in a direction away from the first hinge arm (522) as it approaches the support bar (570).

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