Outer case for foldable electronic device

Abstract

According to an embodiment disclosed herein, provided is an outer case for a foldable electronic device. The outer case for a foldable electronic device comprises: a first case configured to be attached to a first housing of the foldable electronic device; a second case configured to be attached to a second housing of the foldable electronic device, the second housing being hinge-connected to the first housing; a pen holder that is configured to accommodate a pen and is positioned in a hinge housing between the first housing and the second housing when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state; a first magnet disposed in the pen holder; a second magnet disposed in the pen holder; a third magnet disposed in the second case; a fourth magnet disposed in the first case; and a fifth magnet disposed in the first case. One end of the pen holder is attached to the second case via the attraction between the second magnet and the third magnet. When the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, the other end of the pen holder is attached to the first case via the attraction between the first magnet and the fourth magnet. When the foldable electronic device is in the folded state, the other end of the pen holder is attached to the first case via the attraction between the first magnet and the fifth magnet.

Description

External case for foldable electronic devices

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an outer case for a foldable electronic device.

[0002] A pen input device (also known as an electronic pen or stylus pen) can enhance the usability of foldable electronic devices with large-screen user experiences. It is difficult to secure space for a pen input device inside a foldable electronic device while maintaining an appropriate thickness and weight, and it is also difficult to reduce the battery size to secure battery capacity due to the large screen. Therefore, foldable electronic devices may be provided without a built-in pen input device. Instead of storing the pen input device inside the foldable electronic device, a method may be provided in which the pen input device is stored in an external case that is configured to be attached to the foldable electronic device.

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

[0004] When an external case for an electronic device for a folder is implemented to accommodate a pen input device, consideration is given to not compromising usability and aesthetics.

[0005] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide an outer case for a foldable electronic device that can improve usability and aesthetics. Various embodiments of the present disclosure are provided to address or at least alleviate the problems mentioned above.

[0006] The technical problems to be achieved in the present disclosure are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an outer case for a folder electronic device is provided, the outer case for a foldable electronic device including a first case, a second case, a pen holder, a first magnet, a second magnet, a third magnet, a fourth magnet, and a fifth magnet. The first case is configured to be attached to a first housing of the foldable electronic device. The second case is configured to be attached to a second housing of the foldable electronic device that is hingedly connected to the first housing. The pen holder is positioned in a hinged housing between the first housing and the second housing when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state and is configured to receive a pen. The first magnet is disposed in the pen holder. The second magnet is disposed in the pen holder. The third magnet is disposed in the second case. The fourth magnet is disposed in the first case. The fifth magnet is disposed in the first case. One end of the pen holder is attached to the second case through an attractive force between the second magnet and the third magnet. In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device, the other end of the pen holder is attached to the first case through the attractive force between the first magnet and the fourth magnet. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device, the other end of the pen holder is attached to the first case through the attractive force between the first magnet and the fifth magnet.

[0008] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an outer case for a foldable electronic device is provided, the outer case for the foldable electronic device including a first case, a second case, a pen holder, at least one first magnet, and at least one second magnet. The first case is configured to be attached to a first housing of the foldable electronic device. The first case is configured to be attached to a second housing of the foldable electronic device, the second housing being hingedly connected to the first housing. The pen holder is configured to cover a hinged housing between the first housing and the second housing when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state. The pen holder is configured to receive a pen. At least one first magnet is disposed in the pen holder and provides a magnetic force to attach the pen holder to the first case. At least one second magnet is disposed in the pen holder and provides a magnetic force to attach the pen holder to the second case. An attractive force between the at least one second magnet and the second case is configured to be stronger than an attractive force between the at least one first magnet and the first case.

[0009] An outer case for a foldable electronic device according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can improve usability and aesthetics.

[0010] In addition, the effects that can be obtained or expected from various embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed directly or implicitly in the detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the appearance of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state with an outer case detachable according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the appearance of a foldable electronic device in a folded state with an outer case attached or detached according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an unfolded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device and an outer case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a closed state of a pen holder in a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device and an outer case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an open state of a pen holder in a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device and an outer case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a separated state of a pen holder in a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device and an outer case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which a pen holder with a pen input device attached is separated from a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device and an outer case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a combination of a foldable electronic device and an outer case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an intermediate state of a combination of a foldable electronic device and an outer case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device and an outer case according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which a pen input device is attached to a pen holder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Hereinafter, various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the appearances of a foldable electronic device (1) in an unfolded state (also referred to as an unfolding state or a flat state) in which an outer case (e.g., an outer case (3) of FIG. 3) is detachable, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the appearances of a foldable electronic device (1) in a folded state (also referred to as a folding state) in which an outer case is detachable, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the foldable electronic device (1) may include a foldable housing (10), a first display module (15), a second display module (16), a first camera module (201), a second camera module (202), a third camera module (203), a fourth camera module (204), a fifth camera module (205), a light-emitting module (206), a sensor module (207), a first sound input module (not shown separately), a second sound input module (not shown separately), a third sound input module (not shown separately), a fourth sound input module (not shown separately), a first sound output module (not shown separately), a second sound output module (not shown separately), a third sound output module (not shown separately), a key input module, a first connection terminal (211), and / or a second connection terminal (212).

[0026] According to one embodiment, the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1) can be substantially provided by the foldable housing (10). The 'unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1)' and the 'unfolded state of the foldable housing (10)' described in the present disclosure can be interpreted as being substantially the same. The 'folded state of the foldable electronic device (1)' and the 'folded state of the foldable housing (10)' described in the present disclosure can be interpreted as being substantially the same.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (10) may include a first housing (also referred to as a first housing portion or a first housing structure) (11), a second housing (also referred to as a second housing portion or a second housing structure) (12), a hinge housing (13), and / or a hinge portion (14). The first housing (11) and the second housing (12) may be connected via the hinge portion (14). The first housing (11) and the second housing (12) may be rotatable relative to each other with respect to the hinge portion (14). The hinge portion (14) may include, for example, one or more hinge modules (also referred to as hinge assemblies).

[0028] According to one embodiment, the first display module (15) may be disposed in the foldable housing (10). The first display module (15) may include, for example, a flexible display module (also referred to as a flexible display) or a foldable display module (also referred to as a foldable display) that can be deformed in response to a transition between an unfolded state and a folded state of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0029] According to one embodiment, the first display module (15) may include a display area (150). The display area (150) may include an active area or a screen area capable of displaying an image based on an electrical signal. The display area (150) may include a first display area (151) corresponding to the first housing (11), a second display area (152) corresponding to the second housing (12), and a third display area (153) corresponding to the hinge portion (14). The third display area (153) may extend the first display area (151) and the second display area (152).

[0030] According to one embodiment, the first display area (151) may be disposed in the first housing (11). The shape of the first display area (151) may be maintained by the support of the first housing (11). For example, the first display area (151) may be provided (or formed) to be substantially flat by being supported by the first housing (11). In the present specification, when the term "substantially" is used to define a structural part, the expression including the term "substantially" is understood or interpreted as a technical feature produced within the technical tolerance of the method used to manufacture it. In addition, the expression including the term means that a specific effect or result can be obtained within a specific tolerance, and that a person skilled in the art knows how to obtain the tolerance.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the second display area (152) may be disposed in the second housing (12). The shape of the second display area (152) may be maintained by support of the second housing (12). For example, the second display area (152) may be supported by the second housing (11) and provided (or formed) to be substantially flat.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the third display area (153) may be positioned corresponding to the hinge portion (14). When the foldable electronic device (1) switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the third display area (153) may be deformed corresponding to the relative position between the first display area (151) and the second display area (152). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the third display area (153) may be arranged substantially flat. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the third display area (153) may be arranged in a bent shape. The unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1) may be defined or interpreted as a state in which the third display area (153) is arranged flat. The folded state of the foldable electronic device (1) may be defined or interpreted as a state in which the third display area (153) is arranged in a bent shape.

[0033] According to one embodiment, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the first display area (151) and the second display area (152) can form an angle of about 180 degrees, and the display area (150) can be provided (or arranged) in a substantially flat form. Due to the relative positions between the first display area (151) arranged in the first housing (11) and the second display area (152) arranged in the second housing (12) in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the third display area (153) can be arranged flat. In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the third display area (153) can be pulled from both sides by the first display area (151) and the second display area (152), and the pulling force can be provided so as to reduce damage to the third display area (153) while placing the third display area (153) flat. The third display area (153) can be provided (or formed) with an extended width so as to be placed flat while reducing stress due to being pulled by the first display area (151) and the second display area (152) in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0034] According to one embodiment, the first display (150) of the first display module (15) may substantially provide (or form) the front surface of the exterior of the foldable electronic device (1). The front surface of the foldable electronic device (1) may include a first front surface area provided (or formed) by the first display area (151), a second front surface area provided (or formed) by the second display area (152), and a third front surface area provided (or formed) by the third display area (153). The illustrated coordinate axes of the foldable electronic device (1) are illustrated based on, for example, the first housing (11), and the +z-axis direction may be defined or interpreted as the direction in which the substantially flat first front surface area faces. For example, the first front surface area provided (or formed) by the first display area (151) may be substantially parallel to the xy plane. In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the front surface of the foldable electronic device (1) can be provided (or formed) as a substantially flat surface.

[0035] According to one embodiment, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the hinge portion (14) can support the third display area (153) of the first display module (15) substantially flat. The hinge portion (14) can, for example, support the third display area (153) so that the third display area (153) can be placed flat without sagging or with reduced sagging in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), thereby reducing a crease phenomenon.

[0036] According to one embodiment, when an external force (e.g., external pressure such as a touch input using a user's finger or a touch input using an electronic pen) is applied to the third display area (153) in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the hinge portion (14) can support the third display area (153) so that the third display area (153) can be maintained flat by reducing the sagging phenomenon of the third display area (153).

[0037] According to one embodiment, when an external impact is applied to the foldable electronic device (1) in an unfolded state, such as due to a drop, the hinge portion (14) may be configured to reduce or absorb the external impact so as to reduce the impact of the external impact on the third display area (153).

[0038] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1) may be implemented in an infolding manner in which the display area (150) of the first display module (15) (or the front surface of the foldable electronic device (1) where the display area (150) is visually visible) can be folded inward. FIG. 2 illustrates a fully folded state of the foldable electronic device (1) in which the first housing (11) and the second housing (12) are positioned so that they no longer come close to each other. In the fully folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the first display area (151) and the second display area (152) (or the first front surface area and the second front surface area) may face each other. For example, in a fully folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the angle between the first housing (11) and the second housing (12) (or, the angle between the first display area (151) and the second display area (152), or the angle between the first front area and the second front area) may be from about 0 degrees to about 10 degrees. In a fully folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the display area (150) may be substantially invisible.

[0039] Although not shown separately, the foldable electronic device (1) may be arranged in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the fully folded state. For example, in an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1) in which the angle between the first housing (11) and the second housing (12) is greater than a certain angle, the foldable electronic device (1) may be configured to provide a user environment in which the user can utilize the display area (150).

[0040] Hereinafter, the 'folded state of the foldable electronic device (1)' of the present disclosure may refer to a fully folded state in contrast to an intermediate state.

[0041] According to one embodiment, when viewing the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the display area (150) of the first display module (15) may be provided (or formed) in a symmetrical shape with respect to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1). The center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) may correspond to the middle of the width of the third display area (153) extending from the first boundary between the first display area (151) and the third display area (153) to the second boundary between the second display area (151) and the third display area (153) when viewing the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1). The illustrated +x coordinate axis may be, for example, substantially parallel to the center line (A), and the illustrated +y coordinate axis may be substantially perpendicular to the center line (A).

[0042] According to various embodiments, the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) may be defined or interpreted as a 'folding axis' of the foldable housing (10) or the foldable electronic device (1). The folding axis may be substantially provided (or formed) by the hinge portion (14).

[0043] According to one embodiment, the third display area (153) arranged in a bent shape in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1) may be provided (or formed) in a substantially symmetrical shape based on the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0044] According to one embodiment, when viewing the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the display area (150) of the first display module (15) may be substantially rectangular.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the first housing (11) may include a first frame (also referred to as a first frame structure or a first framework) (111), and a first back cover (112) disposed on (or coupled to) the first frame (111). The combination of the first frame (111) and the first back cover (112) may provide (or form) a first back area and a first side area of ​​an exterior of the foldable electronic device (1). The first frame (111) may provide (or form) at least a portion of the first side area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1). The first back cover (112) may provide (or form) at least a portion of the first back area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1). The first rear area may be oriented in the opposite direction to the first front area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1) provided (or formed) by the first display area (151) of the first display module (15).

[0046] According to one embodiment, the first frame (111) may include a first side (also referred to as a first side member, a first side structure, or a first side bezel structure) (1112). The first side (1112) may surround at least a portion of a space between the first display area (151) and the first back cover (112), and may provide (or form) at least a portion of the first side area of ​​the exterior of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0047] According to one embodiment, the first frame (111) may include a first support plate (not shown separately) extending from or connected to the first side (1112). The first support plate may be a structural element positioned inside the foldable electronic device (1) corresponding to the first housing (11).

[0048] According to one embodiment, the first frame (111) may be provided (or formed) as an integrated or single structure (e.g., a single continuous structure or a complete structure) comprising a first support plate and a first side (1112).

[0049] According to one embodiment, the first support plate can be positioned at least partially between the first display area (151) and the first back cover (112). The first display area (151) can be disposed on the first support plate, and the first support plate can support the first display area (151).

[0050] According to one embodiment, various electrical components (not shown separately), such as a first printed circuit board or a first battery, may be at least partially disposed on a first support plate of the first frame (111) between the first frame (111) and the first back cover (112).

[0051] According to one embodiment, the second housing (12) may include a second frame (also referred to as a second frame structure or a second framework) (121) and / or a second back cover (122) disposed on the second frame (121). The combination of the second frame (121) and the second back cover (122) may provide (or form) a second rear area and a second side area of ​​the exterior of the foldable electronic device (1). The second frame (121) may provide (or form) at least a portion of the second side area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1). The second back cover (122) may provide (or form) at least a portion of the second rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1). The second rear area may face in an opposite direction to a second front area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1) provided (or formed) by the second display area (152).

[0052] According to one embodiment, the second frame (121) may include a second side (also referred to as a second side member, a second side structure, or a second side bezel structure) (1212). The second side (1212) may surround at least a portion of the space between the second display area (152) and the second back cover (122), and may provide (or form) at least a portion of the second side area of ​​the exterior of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the second frame (121) may include a second support plate (not shown separately) extending from or connected to the second side (1212). The second support plate may be a structural element positioned inside the foldable electronic device (1) corresponding to the second housing (12).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the second frame (121) may be provided as an integral or single structure (e.g., a single continuous structure or a complete structure) comprising the second support plate and the second side (1212).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the second support plate can be positioned at least partially between the second display area (152) and the second back cover (122). The second display area (152) can be disposed on the second support plate, and the second support plate can support the second display area (152).

[0056] According to one embodiment, various electrical components (not shown separately), such as a second printed circuit board or a second battery, may be at least partially disposed on the second support plate of the second frame (121) between the second frame (121) and the second back cover (122).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the first side (1112) of the first frame (111) may include a first side portion (B1), a second side portion (B2), a third side portion (B3), and / or a fourth side portion (B4). The first side portion (B1) may extend in a direction perpendicular to a center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1). The third side portion (B3) may be spaced apart from the first side portion (B1) in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) and may be substantially parallel to the first side portion (B1). The second side portion (B2) may extend or connect one end of the first side portion (B1) and one end of the third side portion (B3). The fourth side portion (B4) may extend or connect the other end of the first side portion (B1) and the other end of the third side portion (B3). The second side portion (B2) and the fourth side portion (B4) may be substantially parallel. The fourth side portion (B4) may be positioned closer to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) than the second side portion (B2).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the first corner (C1) from which the first side portion (B1) and the second side portion (B2) are extended or connected, and / or the second corner (C2) from which the second side portion (B2) and the third side portion (B3) are extended or connected, may be provided (or formed) in a smooth curved shape.

[0059] According to one embodiment, when viewed from above the first back cover (112), the first side portion (B1), the second side portion (B2), the third side portion (B3), and the fourth side portion (B4) may surround the first back cover (112).

[0060] According to one embodiment, the second side (1212) of the second frame (121) may include a fifth side portion (B5), a sixth side portion (B6), a seventh side portion (B7), and / or an eighth side portion (B8). The fifth side portion (B5) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1). The seventh side portion (B7) may be spaced apart from the fifth side portion (B5) in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) and may be substantially parallel to the fifth side portion (B5). The sixth side portion (B6) may extend or connect one end of the fifth side portion (B5) and one end of the seventh side portion (B7). The eighth side portion (B8) may extend or connect the other end of the fifth side portion (B5) and the other end of the seventh side portion (B7). The sixth side portion (B6) and the eighth side portion (B8) may be substantially parallel. The eighth side portion (B8) may be positioned closer to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) than the sixth side portion (B6).

[0061] According to one embodiment, the third corner (C3) from which the fifth side portion (B5) and the sixth side portion (B6) are extended or connected, and / or the fourth corner (C4) from which the sixth side portion (B6) and the seventh side portion (B7) are extended or connected, may be provided (or formed) in a smooth curved shape.

[0062] According to one embodiment, when viewed from above the second back cover (122), the fifth side portion (B5), the sixth side portion (B6), the seventh side portion (B7), and the eighth side portion (B8) may surround the second back cover (222).

[0063] According to one embodiment, in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the first side (1112) of the first frame (111) and the second side (1212) of the second frame (121) can be aligned and overlapped. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the first side portion (B1) and the fifth side portion (B5) can be aligned and overlapped. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the second side portion (B2) and the sixth side portion (B6) can be aligned and overlapped. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the third side portion (B3) and the seventh side portion (B7) can be aligned and overlapped.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the first side portion (B1), the third side portion (B3), and the fourth side portion (B4) may be one-sided bezels (or screen bezels) surrounding one area of ​​the first display module (15) based on the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1). The fifth side portion (B5), the seventh side portion (B7), and the eighth side portion (B8) may be other-sided bezels (or screen bezels) surrounding the other area of ​​the first display module (15) based on the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the fourth side portion (B4) and the eighth side portion (B8) may be positioned on opposite sides of the third display area (153). When viewed from above on the front side of the foldable electronic device (1) in an unfolded state, the fourth side portion (B4) and the eighth side portion (B8) may not be visible.

[0066] According to one embodiment, a hinge housing (also called a hinge cover) (13) may be connected to one or more hinge modules (e.g., a first hinge module (141), a second hinge module (142), and a third hinge module (143)) included in a hinge portion (14).

[0067] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (1) is switched from an unfolded state to a folded state, a gap between the first frame (111) and the second frame (121) connected through the hinge portion (14) may open on the opposite side of the third display area (153) due to a change in the relative position between the first frame (111) and the second frame (121) and a change in the state of the hinge portion (14) coupled with the hinge housing (13). The hinge housing (13) may be exposed to the outside through the opened gap. For example, in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the hinge housing (13) may be exposed to the outside through the opened gap between the fourth side portion (B4) of the first frame (111) and the eighth side portion (B8) of the second frame (121). The width of the gap between the fourth side portion (B4) of the first frame (111) and the eighth side portion (B8) of the second frame (121) may vary depending on the angle between the first frame (111) and the second frame (121). The hinge housing (13) may be more exposed to the outside in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1) than in the intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1). In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the hinge housing (13) may become a part of the exterior that covers the inside of the foldable electronic device (1). In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the side of the foldable electronic device (1) may include a first side area provided by a first side (1112) of a first frame (111), a second side area provided by a second side (1212) of a second frame (121), and a third side area provided by a hinge housing (13).

[0068] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (1) is switched from a folded state to an unfolded state, a gap between the first frame (111) and the second frame (121) on the opposite side of the third display area (153) may be closed due to a change in the relative position between the first frame (111) and the second frame (121) connected through the hinge portion (14) and a change in the state of the hinge portion (14) coupled with the hinge housing (13). For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), a gap between the fourth side portion (B4) of the first frame (111) and the eighth side portion (B8) of the second frame (121) may be closed, and the hinge housing (13) may not be exposed to the outside.

[0069] According to one embodiment, a second display module (16) (also referred to as a second display) may be positioned between a second back cover (122) and a second support plate of a second frame (121). The second display module (16) may be positioned or coupled to the second back cover (122) and / or the second support plate. A display area of ​​the second display module (16) may be visually visible through the second back cover (122).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1) may be configured to display an image through a second display module (16) instead of the first display module (15) in a folded state.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (201), the second camera module (202), the third camera module (203), the fourth camera module (204), and / or the fifth camera module (205) may include one or more lenses, image sensor(s), and / or image signal processor (ISP).

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (201), the second camera module (202), and the third camera module (203) may be accommodated in the first housing (11) corresponding to the first back cover (112) (or the first rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1)). For example, the first back cover (112) may include a first camera hole (or a first light-transmitting area) corresponding to the first camera module (201), a second camera hole (or a second light-transmitting area) corresponding to the second camera module (202), and / or a third camera hole (or a third light-transmitting area) corresponding to the third camera module (203). The positions or numbers of the camera modules accommodated in the first housing (11) corresponding to the first back cover (112) are not limited to the illustrated examples and may vary.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (201) (also referred to as a first camera, a first rear camera module, or a first rear camera), the second camera module (202) (also referred to as a second camera, a second rear camera module, or a second rear camera), or the third camera module (203) (also referred to as a third camera, a third rear camera module, or a third rear camera) may include a wide-angle camera module, a telephoto camera module, a color camera module, a monochrome camera module, or an IR camera (e.g., a time of flight (TOF) camera, a structured light camera) module.

[0074] In one embodiment, the first camera module (201), the second camera module (202), and the third camera module (203) may have different properties (e.g., angle of view) or functions.

[0075] According to various embodiments, the first camera module (201), the second camera module (202), or the third camera module (203) may provide different angles of view (or lenses with different angles of view). The foldable electronic device (1) may selectively use the angles of view of the first camera module (201), the second camera module (202), or the third camera module (203) based on a user's selection regarding the angle of view.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the fourth camera module (204) may be accommodated in the first housing (11) corresponding to the first front area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the fourth camera module (204) (also referred to as the fourth camera, the first front camera module, or the first front camera) may overlap the first display area (151) of the first display module (15) when viewed from above the first front area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1). The fourth camera module (204) may be positioned on the back surface of the first display area (151) or below the first display area (151). When viewed from the outside of the foldable electronic device (1), the fourth camera module (204), or the position of the fourth camera module (204), may be substantially not visually distinguishable (or exposed). The fourth camera module (204) may include, for example, a hidden display back camera (e.g., an under display camera (UDC)). External light may pass through the first display module (15) to reach the fourth camera module (204).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the fifth camera module (205) may be accommodated in the second housing (12) corresponding to the second back cover (122) (or the second rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1)).

[0079] In one embodiment, the fifth camera module (205) may be positioned in alignment with or at least partially inserted into an opening provided in the second display module (16). External light may pass through the opening provided in the second back cover (122) and the second display module (16) to reach the fifth camera module (205). The opening of the second display module (16) aligned with or overlapping the fifth camera module (205) may be a through hole. In various embodiments, the opening of the second display module (16) aligned with or overlapping the fifth camera module (205) may be provided as a notch (not separately illustrated).

[0080] According to various embodiments, the fifth camera module (205) (also referred to as the fifth camera, the second front camera module, or the second front camera) may overlap the second display module (16) when viewed from above the second rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1). The fifth camera module (205) may be positioned on the back surface of the second display module (16) or below the second display module (16). When viewed from the outside of the foldable electronic device (1), the fifth camera module (205), or the position of the fifth camera module (205), may be substantially not visually distinguishable (or exposed). The fifth camera module (205) may include, for example, a hidden display rear camera (e.g., UDC). External light may pass through the second back cover (122) and the second display module (16) to reach the fifth camera module (205).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the light emitting module (206) may be accommodated in the first housing (11) corresponding to the first back cover (112) (or the first rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1)). The first back cover (112) may include a flash hole (or a fourth light transmitting area) corresponding to the light emitting module (206). The light emitting module (206) may include, for example, an LED or a xenon lamp. The light emitting module (206) may include a light source for the first camera module (201), the second camera module (202), and / or the third camera module (203).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (207) can be accommodated in the foldable housing (10) corresponding to the front side of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (207) may include an optical sensor module. The optical sensor module may include, for example, a proximity sensor module or an illuminance sensor module.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (207) may overlap the first display area (151) of the first display module (15) when viewed from above the first front area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1). The sensor module (207) may be positioned on the back surface of the first display area (151) or below the first display area (151). When viewed from the outside of the foldable electronic device (1), the sensor module (207) or the position of the sensor module (207) may be substantially not visually distinguishable (or exposed). External light may pass through the first display module (15) to reach the sensor module (207).

[0085] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (1) may further include various other sensor modules (e.g., a biometric sensor module) (not shown separately).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the first audio input module may include a first microphone (also referred to as a first microphone) (not shown separately). The second audio input module may include a second microphone (also referred to as a second microphone) (not shown separately). The third audio input module may include a third microphone (also referred to as a third microphone) (not shown separately). The fourth audio input module may include a fourth microphone (also referred to as a fourth microphone) (not shown separately). The first microphone may be accommodated in the first housing (11), for example, corresponding to a first microphone hole (MH1) included in a first side portion (B1) of the first side (1112). The second microphone may be accommodated in the first housing (11), for example, corresponding to the second microphone hole (MH2) included in the third side portion (B3) of the first side (1112). The third microphone may be accommodated in the first housing (11), for example, corresponding to the third microphone hole (MH3) included in the third side portion (B3) of the first side (1112). The fourth microphone may be accommodated in the second housing (12), for example, corresponding to the fourth microphone hole (MH4) included in the seventh side portion (B7) of the second side (1212). The positions or numbers of the microphones and the microphone holes corresponding to the microphones are not limited to the examples shown and may vary.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the first audio output module may include a first speaker (not shown separately). The second audio output module may include a second speaker (not shown separately). The first speaker or the second speaker may be a speaker for multimedia playback or recording playback. The first speaker may be accommodated in the second housing (12), for example, corresponding to a first speaker hole (SH1) included in the second side (1212). The second speaker may be accommodated in the second housing (12), for example, corresponding to a second speaker hole (SH2) provided in the second side (1212). The positions or numbers of speakers for multimedia playback or recording playback and speaker holes corresponding to the speakers are not limited to the examples shown and may vary.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the third audio output module may include a third speaker (not shown separately). The third speaker may include a call receiver. The third speaker may be accommodated in the second housing (12) in correspondence with a third speaker hole (SH3) provided between the second back cover (122) and the seventh side portion (B7) of the second side (1212), for example. The positions or number of the call speaker and the speaker holes corresponding to the speaker are not limited to the illustrated example and may vary.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the key input module may include a first key (also referred to as a first side key) (209), a second key (also referred to as a second side key) (210), and / or a key signal generating unit (not shown separately). For example, the first key (209) may be positioned in a first key hole included in a second side portion (B2) of the first side (1112), and the second key (210) may be positioned in a second key hole included in the second side portion (B2) of the first side (1112). The key signal generating unit may be configured to generate a first key signal in response to a press or touch on the first key (209), and a second key signal in response to a press or touch on the second key (210). The location or number of the key input modules is not limited to the illustrated example and may vary.

[0090] According to one embodiment, a first connection terminal (211) (also referred to as a first connector or a first interface terminal) may be accommodated in the first housing (11) corresponding to a first connection terminal hole (e.g., a first connector hole) included in a first side portion (B1) of the first side (1112). The foldable electronic device (1) may transmit and / or receive power and / or data to and from an external electronic device electrically connected to the first connection terminal (211). The first connection terminal (211) may include, for example, a USB connector or an HDMI connector. The positions of the first connection terminal (211) and the first connection terminal hole corresponding to the first connection terminal (211) are not limited to the illustrated examples and may vary.

[0091] According to one embodiment, a second connection terminal (also referred to as a second connector or a second interface terminal) (212) may be accommodated in the second housing (12) corresponding to a second connection terminal hole (e.g., a second connector hole) included in the sixth side portion (B6) of the second side (1112). An external storage medium such as a secure digital memory (SD) card, a SIM card, or a universal SIM (USIM) may be connected to the second connection terminal (212). The positions of the second connection terminal (212) and the second connection terminal hole corresponding to the second connection terminal (212) are not limited to the illustrated example and may vary.

[0092] The foldable electronic device (1) may further include various components depending on its provision form. These components are subject to various modifications in accordance with the convergence trend of the foldable electronic device (1), and therefore cannot be all enumerated. However, components equivalent to the aforementioned components may be additionally included in the foldable electronic device (1). In various embodiments, depending on the provision form, certain components may be excluded from the aforementioned components or replaced with other components.

[0093] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an unfolded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device (1) and an outer case (3) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a closed state of a pen holder (33) in a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device (1) and an outer case (3) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an open state of a pen holder (33) in a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device (1) and an outer case (3) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a separated state of a pen holder (33) in a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device (1) and an outer case (3) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a separated state of a pen holder (33) to which a pen input device (9) is attached in a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device (1) and an outer case (3) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the unfolded state, the folded state, and the intermediate state of the combination of the foldable electronic device (1) and the outer case (3) are substantially provided by the foldable electronic device (1). Hereinafter, the 'unfolded state of the combination of the foldable electronic device (1) and the outer case (3)' may be defined or interpreted substantially identically to the 'unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1)'. Hereinafter, the 'folded state of the combination of the foldable electronic device (1) and the outer case (3)' may be defined or interpreted substantially identically to the 'folded state of the foldable electronic device (1)'. Hereinafter, the 'intermediate state of the combination of the foldable electronic device (1) and the outer case (3)' may be defined or interpreted substantially identically to the 'intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1)'.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, the outer case (3) may include a first case (also referred to as a first cover) (31), a second case (also referred to as a second cover) (32), a pen holder (also referred to as a pen support member or pen support portion) (33), a plurality of first magnets (4), a plurality of second magnets (5), a plurality of third magnets (6), a plurality of fourth magnets (7), and / or a plurality of fifth magnets (8).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the first case (31) may be configured to be detachably attached to the first housing (11) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the first case (31) may include a first cover area (311) and a second cover area (312) extending from the first cover area (311). The first cover area (311) may be configured to cover at least a portion of a first back cover (112) (see FIG. 1) included in a first housing (11) of the foldable electronic device (1). The second cover area (312) may be configured to cover at least a portion of a first side (1112) (see FIG. 1) included in the first housing (11) of the foldable electronic device (1). The second cover area (312) may, for example, extend in a looped shape along the first side (1112) (see FIG. 1) of the first housing (11).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the first case (31) may be provided (or formed) as an integral or single structure (e.g., a single continuous structure or a complete structure) comprising a first cover area (311) and a second cover area (312).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the first case (31) may include a first recess (not shown separately) for receiving and holding the first housing (11) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) by a combination of the first cover area (311) and the second cover area (312).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the second cover area (312) of the first case (31), or a combination of the first and second cover areas (311, 312) of the first case (31), can provide an elastic structure that allows the first case (31) to be elastically coupled to the first housing (11) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1). When the first housing (11) of the foldable electronic device (1) is placed in the first recess of the first case (31), the first case (31) can elastically press the first housing (11) and be stably coupled to the first housing (11) while reducing shaking or looseness.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the first case (31) may be configured so as not to obscure the display area (150) (see FIG. 1) of the first display module (15) included in the foldable electronic device (1).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the first cover area (311) of the first case (31) may include a first opening (H1) exposing the first camera module (201) to the outside. The first cover area (311) of the first case (31) may include a second opening (H2) exposing the second camera module (202) to the outside. The first cover area (311) of the first case (31) may include a third opening (H3) exposing the third camera module (202) to the outside.

[0103] According to various embodiments, the first cover area (311) of the first case (31) may be implemented to have a single opening (not shown separately) that replaces the first opening (H1), the second opening (H2), and the third opening (H3).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the first cover area (311) included in the first case (31) may include a fourth opening (H4) that exposes the light emitting module (206) to the outside.

[0105] According to various embodiments, the first cover area (311) of the first case (31) may be implemented to have a single opening (not shown separately) that replaces the first opening (H1), the second opening (H2), the third opening (H3), and the fourth opening (H4).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the second cover area (312) of the first case (31) may include a fifth opening (not shown separately) that exposes the first microphone hole (MH1) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the second cover area (312) of the first case (31) may include a sixth opening (H6) (see FIG. 8) that exposes the second microphone hole (MH2) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the second cover area (312) of the first case (31) may include a seventh opening (H7) (see FIG. 8) that exposes the third microphone hole (MH3) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the second cover area (312) of the first case (31) may include an eighth opening (not shown separately) that exposes the first key (209) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside. The second cover area (312) of the first case (31) may include a ninth opening (not shown separately) that exposes the second key (210) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside. In various embodiments, the second cover area (312) of the first case (31) may be implemented to have a single opening that replaces the eighth opening and the ninth opening.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the second cover area (312) of the first case (31) may include a tenth opening (not shown separately) that exposes the first connection terminal (211) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the first case (31) may be formed of a non-conductive material (e.g., a polymer).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the second case (32) may be configured to be detachably attached to the second housing (12) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the second case (32) may include a third cover area (321) and a fourth cover area (322) extending from the third cover area (321). The third cover area (321) may be configured to cover a portion between the second side (1212) (see FIG. 1) of the second back cover (122) (see FIG. 1) and the display area of ​​the second display module (16) when viewed from above the display area of ​​the second display module (16). The fourth cover area (322) may be configured to cover at least a portion of the second side (1212) (see FIG. 1) included in the second housing (12) of the foldable electronic device (1). The fourth cover area (322) may, for example, extend in a loop shape along the second side (1212) of the second housing (12).

[0114] According to one embodiment, the second case (32) may be provided (or formed) as an integral or single structure (e.g., a single continuous structure or a complete structure) comprising a third cover area (321) and a fourth cover area (322).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the second case (32) may include a second recess (not shown separately) for accommodating and engaging the second housing (12) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) by a combination of the third cover area (321) and the fourth cover area (322).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the fourth cover area (322) of the second case (32), or a combination of the third and fourth cover areas (321, 322) of the second case (32), can provide a resilient structure that allows the second case (32) to be resiliently coupled to the second housing (12) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1). When the second housing (12) of the foldable electronic device (1) is placed in the second recess of the second case (32), the second case (32) can resiliently press the second housing (12) and be stably coupled to the second housing (12) while reducing shaking or looseness.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the second case (32) may be configured so as not to cover the display area (150) of the first display module (15) included in the foldable electronic device (1). The second case (32) may be configured so as not to cover the display area of ​​the second display module (16) included in the foldable electronic device (1).

[0118] According to various embodiments, the second case (32) may include an eleventh opening (not shown separately) that exposes the first speaker hole (SH1) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the second case (32) may include a twelfth opening (H12) (see FIG. 8) that exposes the second speaker hole (SH2) (see FIG. 8) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the second case (32) may include a thirteenth opening (not shown separately) that exposes the second connection terminal (212) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the second case (32) may include a fourteenth opening (H14) (see FIG. 8) that exposes the fourth microphone hole (MH4) (see FIG. 8) of the foldable electronic device (1) to the outside.

[0122] In one embodiment, the second case (32) may be formed of a non-conductive material (e.g., a polymer).

[0123] According to one embodiment, the pen holder (33) may be configured to cover the hinge housing (13) of the foldable electronic device (1) in a folded state or an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the pen holder (33) may include a first side wall (331), a second side wall (332), and a side wall extension (333). The first side wall (331) and the second side wall (332) may be positioned opposite each other in the direction of a center line (or folding axis) (A) of the foldable electronic device (1). The first side wall (331) may provide (or form) a first side (also referred to as a first bottom side) (3311) of the pen holder (33). The second side wall (332) may provide (or form) a second side (also referred to as a second bottom side) (3321) of the pen holder (33). The first side (3311) may face in a first direction substantially parallel to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), and the second side (3321) may face in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The first side (3311) and the second side (3321) may be provided (or formed) substantially symmetrically to each other. The side wall extension (333) may extend or connect the first side wall (331) and the second side wall (332) between the first side wall (331) and the second side wall (332). The side wall extension (333) may extend substantially straight in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), for example, from the first side wall (331) to the second side wall (332).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the side wall extension (333) of the pen holder (33) may provide (or form) first and second lateral surfaces (3331, 3332) of the pen holder (33) connecting the first surface (3311) of the first lateral wall (331) and the second surface (3321) of the second lateral wall (332). For example, when viewed in a cross-section perpendicular to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) (see FIG. 1), the first lateral surface (3331) may be provided in a curved shape that is symmetrical with respect to the center line (A). For example, when viewed in a cross-section perpendicular to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), the second lateral surface (3332) of the pen holder (33) may be oriented in a direction substantially perpendicular to the center line (A). When the pen holder (33) is attached to the first and second cases (31, 32) (see FIG. 3 or 4), the first side (3311), the second side (3321), and the first side (3321) can be exposed to the outside, and the second side (3322) can be covered.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the pen holder (33) may be provided (or formed) as an integral or unitary structure (e.g., a single continuous structure or a complete structure) comprising a first side wall (331), a second side wall (332), and a side wall extension (333).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the pen holder (33) may be provided (or formed) in a substantially symmetrical shape with respect to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the pen holder (33) may be formed of a non-conductive material (e.g., a polymer).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the side wall extension (333) of the pen holder (33) may include a third recess (334) (see FIG. 5) configured to accommodate a pen input device (also referred to as a pen or electronic pen) (e.g., a stylus or stylus pen) (9). The third recess (334) may include a fine-shaped groove in the second side surface (3332) of the side wall extension (333).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the third recess (334) of the pen holder (33) may include a first partial recess (3341) and a second partial recess (3342). The first partial recess (3341) and the second partial recess (3342) may be arranged in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1). The first partial recess (3341) may be configured such that, for example, a portion of the pen input device (9) (e.g., a pen tip and a first section extending from the pen tip) may be fitted therein. The second partial recess (3342) may provide a space through which a user may pull out the remaining portion of the pen input device (9) (e.g., a second section extending from the first section to an opposite end of the pen tip) to separate it from the pen holder (33).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the pen holder (33) may be configured to be connected to the first case (31) and the second case (32) via magnetic force.

[0132] According to one embodiment, a plurality of first magnets (4) and a plurality of second magnets (5) can be arranged in a pen holder (33).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of second magnets (5) included in the pen holder (33) may be provided substantially symmetrically. As in the illustrated example, the pen holder (33) may be attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the second case (32). When the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the second case (32), the first side (3311) of the pen holder (33) may face in the direction in which the third and seventh side portions (B3, B7) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) face, and the second side (3321) of the pen holder (33) may face in the direction in which the first and fifth side portions (B1, B5) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) face. Although not shown separately, the pen holder (33) may also be attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the second case (32). When the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the second case (32), the first side (3311) of the pen holder (33) may face in the direction in which the first and fifth side portions (B1, B5) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) face, and the second side (3321) of the pen holder (33) may face in the direction in which the third and seventh side portions (B3, B7) (see FIG. 1) of the foldable electronic device (1) face.

[0134] According to one embodiment, a plurality of first magnets (4) and a plurality of second magnets (5) may be arranged on a side wall extension (333) of the pen holder (33). The plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of second magnets (5) may be positioned on opposite sides of the side wall extension (333) with the third recess (334) therebetween. The plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of second magnets (5) may be positioned adjacent to a second side surface (3332) of the pen holder (33). A portion of the pen holder (33) where the plurality of first magnets (4) are arranged or included may be referred to as one end, one end portion, or a first portion of the pen holder (33). A portion of the pen holder (33) where the plurality of second magnets (5) are arranged or included may be referred to as the other end, the other end portion, or the second portion of the pen holder (33).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of second magnets (5) may be arranged inside the side wall extension (333) of the pen holder (33) and not be exposed to the outside.

[0136] According to one embodiment, a plurality of first magnets (4) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1). A plurality of second magnets (5) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0137] According to one embodiment, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) via a plurality of second magnets (5), as in the illustrated example, the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the second case (32) can be configured to be stronger than the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the first case (31). In the transition between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), since the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the second case (32) is greater than the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the first case (31), in the transition between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) can be rotated about the plurality of second magnets (5) as an axis. The axis provided (or formed) by the plurality of second magnets (5) while the pen holder (33) is attached to the first case (31) can be substantially parallel to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0138] According to one embodiment, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) via a plurality of second magnets (5), a user experience can be provided that guides the user to open the pen holder (33) about the plurality of second magnets (5) as an axis because the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the second case (32) is greater than the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the first case (31).

[0139] According to one embodiment, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) via a plurality of second magnets (5), in the transition between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) rotates about the plurality of second magnets (5) as an axis, so that the display area of ​​the second display module (16) may not be covered.

[0140] According to one embodiment, although not shown separately, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) via a plurality of first magnets (4), the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the second case (32) can be configured to be stronger than the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the first case (31). In the transition between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), since the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the second case (32) is greater than the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the first case (31), in the transition between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) can be rotated about the plurality of first magnets (4) as an axis. The axis provided (or formed) by the plurality of first magnets (4) in a state where the pen holder (33) is attached to the first case (31) can be substantially parallel to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0141] According to one embodiment, although not shown separately, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) via a plurality of first magnets (4), a user experience can be provided that guides the user to open the pen holder (33) around the plurality of first magnets (4) because the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the second case (32) is greater than the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the first case (31).

[0142] According to one embodiment, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) via a plurality of first magnets (4), in the transition between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) rotates about the plurality of first magnets (4) as an axis, so that the display area of ​​the second display module (16) may not be covered.

[0143] According to one embodiment, a plurality of third magnets (6) may be arranged in the second case (32). The plurality of third magnets (6) may be, for example, located inside the second case (32) and not exposed to the outside. Through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the pen holder (33) may be attached to the second case (32). Through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6) of the second case (32), the pen holder (33) may be attached to the second case (32).

[0144] According to one embodiment, a plurality of first magnets (4) (or a plurality of second magnets (5)) and a plurality of third magnets (6) may be provided in a one-to-one correspondence relationship. This one-to-one correspondence relationship may guide a user as to where the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the first case (31) may include a first region (3101) and a second region (3102) configured to exert an attractive force with the pen holder (33). When looking at the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the second region (3102) may be positioned closer to the plurality of third magnets (6) than the first region (3101).

[0146] According to one embodiment, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6), as in the illustrated example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) can be attached to the first case (31) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the first area (3101) of the first case (31). When the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6), in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) can be attached to the first case (31) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the second area (3102) of the first case (31). In the transition between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) can be rotated about the plurality of second magnets (5) as an axis while maintaining a state of being attached to the first case (31) via the plurality of first magnets (4).

[0147] According to one embodiment, although not shown separately, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attraction between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6), in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) can be attached to the first case (31) through the attraction between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the first region (3101). When the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attraction between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6), in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) can be attached to the first case (31) through the attraction between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the second region (3102). In the transition between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) can be rotated about the plurality of first magnets (4) as an axis while maintaining a state of being attached to the first case (31) via the plurality of second magnets (5).

[0148] According to one embodiment, a plurality of fourth magnets (7) may be arranged in a first area (3101) of a first case (31). As in the illustrated example, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through an attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6), in an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) may be attached to the first case (31) through an attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of fourth magnets (7). Although not shown separately, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attraction between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the pen holder (33) can be attached to the first case (31) through the attraction between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of fourth magnets (7) in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0149] According to one embodiment, a plurality of fifth magnets (8) may be arranged in a second area (3102) of the first case (31). As in the illustrated example, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6), in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the pen holder (33) may be attached to the first case (31) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of fifth magnets (8). Although not shown separately, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attraction between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the pen holder (33) can be attached to the first case (31) through the attraction between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of fifth magnets (8) in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0150] In various embodiments, at least one first magnetic material (e.g., a material that is magnetized in response to a magnet) may be disposed or included in the first region (3101) of the first case (31) in place of the plurality of fourth magnets (7). In various embodiments, a combination of the plurality of fourth magnets (7) and the at least one first magnetic material may be disposed or included in the first region (3101) of the first case (31).

[0151] In various embodiments, at least one second magnetic material (e.g., a material that is magnetized in response to a magnet) may be disposed or included in the second region (3102) of the first case (31) in place of the plurality of fifth magnets (8). In various embodiments, a combination of the plurality of fifth magnets (8) and the at least one second magnetic material may be disposed or included in the second region (3102) of the first case (31).

[0152] According to various embodiments, the number and / or positions of the plurality of first magnets (4), the plurality of second magnets (5), the plurality of third magnets (6), the plurality of fourth magnets (7), and / or the plurality of fifth magnets (8) are not limited to the illustrated examples and may vary. For example, one first magnet may be provided in place of the first plurality of first magnets (4). For example, one second magnet may be provided in place of the second plurality of second magnets (5). For example, one third magnet may be provided in place of the plurality of third magnets (6). For example, one fourth magnet may be provided in place of the plurality of fourth magnets (7). For example, one fifth magnet may be provided in place of the plurality of fifth magnets (8).

[0153] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a combination of a foldable electronic device (1) and an outer case (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an intermediate state of a combination of a foldable electronic device (1) and an outer case (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a folded state of a combination of a foldable electronic device (1) and an outer case (3) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0154] Referring to FIGS. 8, 9, and 10, the outer case (3) may include a first case (31), a second case (32), and a pen holder (33). A plurality of first magnets (4) and a plurality of second magnets (5) may be arranged in the pen holder (33). A plurality of third magnets (6) may be arranged in the second case (32). A plurality of fourth magnets (7) and a plurality of fifth magnets (8) may be arranged in the first case (31). Descriptions of some components having the same reference numerals as those illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are omitted.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the plurality of first and second magnets (4, 5) of the pen holder (33) may be provided (or formed) in a cylindrical shape. The plurality of first and second magnets (4, 5) may be, for example, cylindrical magnets. The plurality of first and second magnets (4, 5) may include, for example, two circular bottom surfaces arranged opposite to each other in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) (see FIG. 1) and a curved side surface connecting the two circular bottom surfaces. The plurality of first magnets (4) may have a first central axis (E1) substantially parallel to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1). The plurality of second magnets (5) may have a second central axis (E2) substantially parallel to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0156] According to one embodiment, each of the plurality of first magnets (4) may be a cylindrical magnet, including an N pole and a S pole arranged on both sides relative to a first central axis (E1). Each of the plurality of second magnets (5) may be a cylindrical magnet, including an N pole and a S pole arranged on both sides relative to a second central axis (E2).

[0157] According to one embodiment, a plurality of first magnets (4) may be arranged in a pen holder (33) so as to be substantially rotatable about a first central axis (E1). The pen holder (33) may include a plurality of first internal spaces (1001) in which the plurality of first magnets (4) are arranged. A clearance may be provided (or formed) between surfaces of the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of first internal spaces (1001) so that the plurality of first magnets (4) may be substantially rotatable about the first central axis (E1). The surfaces of the plurality of first internal spaces (1001) may support rotation of the plurality of first magnets (4).

[0158] According to one embodiment, a plurality of second magnets (5) may be arranged in the pen holder (33) so as to be substantially rotatable about a second central axis (E2). The pen holder (33) may include a plurality of second internal spaces (1002) in which the plurality of second magnets (5) are arranged. A clearance may be provided (or formed) between surfaces of the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of second internal spaces (1002) so that the plurality of second magnets (5) may be substantially rotatable about the second central axis (E2). The surfaces of the plurality of second internal spaces (1002) may support the rotation of the plurality of second magnets (5).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the plurality of third magnets (6) may be provided (or formed) in a cylindrical shape. The plurality of third magnets (6) may be, for example, cylindrical magnets. The plurality of third magnets (6) may include, for example, two circular bottom surfaces arranged opposite to each other in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) (see FIG. 1) and a curved side surface connecting the two circular bottom surfaces. The plurality of third magnets (6) may have a third central axis (E3) substantially parallel to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0160] According to one embodiment, each of the plurality of third magnets (6) may be a cylindrical magnet and include an N pole and an S pole respectively arranged on both sides with respect to the third central axis (E3).

[0161] According to one embodiment, a plurality of third magnets (6) may be arranged in a second case (32) so as to be substantially rotatable about a third central axis (E3). The second case (32) may include a plurality of third internal spaces (not separately illustrated) in which the plurality of third magnets (6) are arranged. A clearance may be provided (or formed) between the plurality of third magnets (6) and faces of the plurality of third internal spaces so that the plurality of third magnets (6) may be substantially rotatable about the third central axis (E3). The faces of the plurality of third internal spaces may support the rotation of the plurality of third magnets (6).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the configuration of the plurality of second magnets (5) to be substantially rotatable about the second central axis (E2) and the plurality of third magnets (6) to be substantially rotatable about the third central axis (E3) can reduce the deterioration of the adhesive force between the pen holder (33) and the second case (32) in the illustrated example where the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6). For example, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6) can be mutually rotated so that the N poles (e.g., N poles (1111, 1121)) and the S poles (e.g., S poles (1112, 1122)) are aligned in a direction facing each other. The configuration in which the plurality of second magnets (5) are substantially rotatable about the second central axis (E2) and the plurality of third magnets (6) are substantially rotatable about the third central axis (E3) can reduce the decrease in the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6) when the pen holder (33) is rotated about the plurality of second magnets (5) as an axis while maintaining the state of being attached to the first case (31) via the plurality of first magnets (4) in the transition between the unfolded state and the folder state of the foldable electronic device (1). In the transition between the unfolded state and the folder state of the foldable electronic device (1), the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6) can be mutually rotated so that the N poles and the S poles are aligned in a direction facing each other.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the plurality of first magnets (4) are configured to be substantially rotatable about a first central axis (E1) and the plurality of third magnets (6) are configured to be substantially rotatable about a third central axis (E3), which can reduce the deterioration of the adhesive force between the pen holder (33) and the second case (32) in an example (not shown separately) in which the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6). For example, when the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6) can be mutually rotated so that the N poles and the S poles are aligned in a direction facing each other. The configuration in which the plurality of first magnets (4) are substantially rotatable about the first central axis (E1) and the plurality of third magnets (6) are substantially rotatable about the third central axis (E3) can reduce the decrease in the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6) when the pen holder (33) is rotated about the plurality of first magnets (4) as an axis while maintaining the state of being attached to the first case (31) via the plurality of second magnets (5) in the transition between the unfolded state and the folder state of the foldable electronic device (1). In the transition between the unfolded state and the folder state of the foldable electronic device (1), the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6) can be mutually rotated so that the N poles and the S poles are aligned in a direction facing each other.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the plurality of fourth magnets (7) may be provided (or formed) in a cylindrical shape. The plurality of fourth magnets (7) may be, for example, cylindrical magnets. The plurality of fourth magnets (7) may include, for example, two circular bottom surfaces arranged opposite to each other in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) (see FIG. 1) and a curved side surface connecting the two circular bottom surfaces. The plurality of fourth magnets (7) may have a fourth central axis (E4) substantially parallel to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0165] According to one embodiment, each of the plurality of fourth magnets (7) may be a cylindrical magnet and include an N pole and an S pole respectively arranged on both sides with respect to the fourth central axis (E4).

[0166] According to one embodiment, a plurality of fourth magnets (7) may be arranged in a first case (31) so as to be substantially rotatable about a fourth central axis (E4). The first case (31) may include a plurality of fourth internal spaces (not separately illustrated) in which the plurality of fourth magnets (7) are arranged. A clearance may be provided (or formed) between the plurality of fourth magnets (7) and faces of the plurality of fourth internal spaces so that the plurality of fourth magnets (7) may be substantially rotatable about the fourth central axis (E4). The faces of the plurality of fourth internal spaces may support the rotation of the plurality of fourth magnets (7).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the plurality of fourth magnets (7) are configured to be substantially rotatable about the fourth central axis (E4), so that when the foldable electronic device (1) is in an unfolded state in which the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of fourth magnets (7) can be aligned in a direction in which the N poles and the S poles face each other, thereby improving the adhesion between the pen holder (33) and the first case (31).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the plurality of fourth magnets (7) are configured to be substantially rotatable about the fourth central axis (E4), so that when the foldable electronic device (1) is in an unfolded state in an example (not shown) in which the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of fourth magnets (7) can be aligned in a direction in which the N poles and the S poles face each other, thereby improving the adhesion between the pen holder (33) and the first case (31).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the plurality of fifth magnets (8) may be provided (or formed) in a cylindrical shape. The plurality of fifth magnets (8) may be, for example, cylindrical magnets. The plurality of fifth magnets (8) may include, for example, two circular bottom surfaces arranged opposite to each other in the direction of the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1) (see FIG. 1) and a curved side surface connecting the two circular bottom surfaces. The plurality of fifth magnets (8) may have a fifth central axis (E5) substantially parallel to the center line (A) of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0170] According to one embodiment, each of the plurality of fifth magnets (8) may be a cylindrical magnet and include an N pole and an S pole respectively arranged on both sides with respect to the fifth central axis (E5).

[0171] According to one embodiment, a plurality of fifth magnets (8) may be arranged in a first case (31) so as to be substantially rotatable about a fifth central axis (E5). The first case (31) may include a plurality of fifth internal spaces (not separately illustrated) in which the plurality of fifth magnets (8) are arranged. A clearance may be provided (or formed) between the plurality of fifth magnets (8) and faces of the plurality of fifth internal spaces so that the plurality of fifth magnets (8) may be substantially rotatable about the fifth central axis (E5). The faces of the plurality of fifth internal spaces may support the rotation of the plurality of fifth magnets (8).

[0172] According to one embodiment, the plurality of fifth magnets (8) are configured to be substantially rotatable about the fifth central axis (E5), so that when the foldable electronic device (1) is in a folded state in which the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of fifth magnets (8) can be aligned in a direction in which the N poles and the S poles face each other, thereby improving the adhesion between the pen holder (33) and the first case (31).

[0173] According to one embodiment, the plurality of fifth magnets (8) are configured to be substantially rotatable about the fifth central axis (E5), so that when the foldable electronic device (1) is in a folded state in an example (not shown) in which the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the plurality of first magnets (4) and the plurality of third magnets (6), the plurality of second magnets (5) and the plurality of fifth magnets (8) can be aligned in a direction in which the N pole and the S pole face each other, thereby improving the adhesion between the pen holder (33) and the first case (31).

[0174] According to various embodiments, in order to ensure smooth and soft rotation of the plurality of first magnets (4), a lubricating material (e.g., grease) may be placed in the plurality of first internal spaces (1001) of the pen holder (33) in which the plurality of first magnets (4) are arranged. In order to ensure smooth and soft rotation of the plurality of second magnets (5), a lubricating material (e.g., grease) may be placed in the plurality of second internal spaces (1002) of the pen holder (33) in which the plurality of second magnets (5) are arranged.

[0175] According to various embodiments, in order to ensure smooth and soft rotation of the plurality of third magnets (3), a lubricating material (e.g., grease) may be placed in the plurality of third internal spaces (not shown separately) of the second case (32) in which the plurality of third magnets (3) are placed.

[0176] According to various embodiments, in order to ensure smooth and soft rotation of the plurality of fourth magnets (4), a lubricating material (e.g., grease) may be placed in the plurality of fourth internal spaces (not shown separately) of the first case (31) in which the plurality of fourth magnets (4) are placed.

[0177] According to various embodiments, in order to ensure smooth and soft rotation of the plurality of fifth magnets (5), a lubricating material (e.g., grease) may be placed in the plurality of fifth internal spaces (not shown separately) of the first case (31) in which the plurality of fifth magnets (5) are placed.

[0178] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which a pen input device (9) is attached to a pen holder (33) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0179] Referring to Fig. 11, the pen holder (33) may include an opening (1101). A pen input device (9) attached to the pen holder (33) may be exposed to the outside through the opening (1101). A user may push the pen input device (9) through the opening (1101) to separate the pen input device (9) from the pen holder (33).

[0180] According to one embodiment, a portion of the pen input device (9) may be configured to be inserted into the opening (1101) of the pen holder (33). Inserting a portion of the pen input device (9) into the opening (1101) of the pen holder (33) may reduce the thickness of the combination of the pen input device (9) and the pen holder (33).

[0181] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an outer case (3) for a foldable electronic device (1) includes a first case (31), a second case (32), a pen hole (33), a first magnet (e.g., a plurality of first magnets (4)), a second magnet (e.g., a plurality of second magnets (5)), a third magnet (e.g., a plurality of third magnets (6)), a fourth magnet (e.g., a plurality of fourth magnets (7)), and / or a fifth magnet (e.g., a plurality of fifth magnets (8)). The first case (31) is configured to be attached to a first housing (11) of the foldable electronic device. The second case (32) is configured to be attached to a second housing (12) of the foldable electronic device (1) that is hinge-connected to the first housing (11). The pen holder (33) is configured to accommodate a pen (e.g., a pen input device (9)) located in the hinge housing (13) between the first housing (11) and the second housing (12) when the foldable electronic device (1) is in a folded state. A first magnet is disposed in the pen holder (33). A second magnet is disposed in the pen holder (33). A third magnet is disposed in the second case (32). A fourth magnet is disposed in the first case (31). A fifth magnet is disposed in the first case (31). One end of the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through an attractive force between the second magnet and the third magnet. In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the other end of the pen holder (33) is attached to the first case (31) through an attractive force between the first magnet and the fourth magnet. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), the other end of the pen holder (33) is attached to the first case (31) through the attractive force between the first magnet and the fifth magnet.

[0182] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the attractive force between the second magnet (e.g., the plurality of second magnets (5)) and the third magnet (e.g., the plurality of third magnets (6)) may be configured to be stronger than the attractive force between the first magnet (e.g., the plurality of first magnets (4)) and the fourth magnet (e.g., the plurality of fourth magnets (7)) in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1). The attractive force between the second magnet and the third magnet may be configured to be stronger than the attractive force between the first magnet and the fifth magnet (e.g., the plurality of fifth magnets (8)) in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1).

[0183] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a first magnet (e.g., a plurality of first magnets (4)) includes a first central axis (E1) that is parallel to a folding axis (e.g., a center line (A)) of a foldable electronic device (1) and can be arranged in a pen holder (33) to be rotatable about the first central axis (E1). A second magnet (e.g., a plurality of second magnets (5)) includes a second central axis (E2) that is parallel to the folding axis of the foldable electronic device (1) and can be arranged in a pen holder (33) to be rotatable about the second central axis (E2).

[0184] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first magnet (e.g., the plurality of first magnets (4)) may be a cylindrical magnet having an N pole and a S pole respectively arranged on both sides with respect to a first central axis (E1). The second magnet (e.g., the plurality of second magnets (5)) may be a cylindrical magnet having an N pole and a S pole respectively arranged on both sides with respect to a second central axis (E2).

[0185] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a third magnet (e.g., a plurality of third magnets (6)) includes a third central axis (E3) that is parallel to a folding axis (e.g., a center line (A)) of the foldable electronic device (1), and can be rotatably arranged in the second case (32) about the third central axis (E3).

[0186] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the third magnet (e.g., a plurality of third magnets (6)) may be a cylindrical magnet having an N pole and an S pole respectively arranged on both sides with respect to a third central axis (E3).

[0187] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fourth magnet (e.g., the plurality of fourth magnets (7)) may include a fourth central axis (E4) that is parallel to the folding axis (e.g., the center line (A)) of the foldable electronic device (1) and may be arranged in the first case (31) so as to be rotatable about the fourth central axis (E4). The fifth magnet (e.g., the plurality of fifth magnets (8)) may include a fifth central axis (E5) that is parallel to the folding axis of the foldable electronic device (1) and may be arranged in the first case (31) so as to be rotatable about the fifth central axis (E5).

[0188] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fourth magnet (e.g., the plurality of fourth magnets (7)) may be a cylindrical magnet having an N pole and a S pole respectively arranged on both sides with respect to the fourth central axis (E4). The fifth magnet (e.g., the plurality of fifth magnets (8)) may be a cylindrical magnet having an N pole and a S pole respectively arranged on both sides with respect to the fifth central axis (E5).

[0189] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the pen holder (33) may include an opening (1101) to expose a pen (e.g., a pen input device (9)) to the outside.

[0190] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an outer case (3) for a foldable electronic device (1) includes a first case (31), a second case (32), a pen holder (33), at least one first magnet (e.g., a plurality of first magnets (4)), and / or at least one second magnet (e.g., a plurality of second magnets (5)). The first case (31) is configured to be attached to a first housing (11) of the foldable electronic device (1). The second case (32) is configured to be attached to a second housing (12) of the foldable electronic device (1) that is hingedly connected to the first housing (11). The pen holder (33) covers the hinge housing (13) between the first housing (11) and the second housing (12) when the foldable electronic device (1) is in a folded state, and is configured to accommodate a pen (9). At least one first magnet is disposed on the pen holder (33) and provides a magnetic force to attach the pen holder (33) to the first case (31). At least one second magnet is disposed on the pen holder (33) and provides a magnetic force to attach the pen holder (33) to the second case (32). The attractive force between the at least one second magnet and the second case is configured to be stronger than the attractive force between the at least one first magnet and the first case.

[0191] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer case (3) may include at least one third magnet (e.g., a plurality of third magnets (6)) arranged in the second case (32) corresponding to at least one second magnet (e.g., a plurality of second magnets (5)).

[0192] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one second magnet (e.g., a plurality of second magnets (5)) is a cylindrical magnet having a central axis (e.g., a second central axis (E2)) that is parallel to a folding axis (e.g., a center line (A)) of the foldable electronic device (1), and has N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides of the central axis, and can be arranged in the pen holder (33) so as to be rotatable about the central axis. At least one third magnet (e.g., a plurality of third magnets (6)) is a cylindrical magnet having a central axis (e.g., a third central axis (E3)) that is parallel to the folding axis, and has N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides of the central axis, and can be arranged in the second case (32) so as to be rotatable about the central axis.

[0193] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, in an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), at least one first magnet (e.g., a plurality of first magnets (4)) may be configured to exert an attractive force on a first region (3101) of the first case (31). In a folded state of the foldable electronic device (1), at least one first magnet may be configured to exert an attractive force on a second region (3102) of the first case (31).

[0194] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first region (3101) of the first case (31) may include at least one fourth magnet (e.g., a plurality of fourth magnets (7)). The second region (3102) of the first case (31) may include at least one fifth magnet (e.g., a plurality of fifth magnets (8)).

[0195] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one fourth magnet (e.g., the plurality of fourth magnets (7)) is a cylindrical magnet having a central axis (e.g., the fourth central axis (E4)) that is parallel to a folding axis (e.g., the center line (A)) of the foldable electronic device (1), and has an N pole and a S pole arranged on both sides of the central axis (E4), and can be arranged in the first case (31) so as to be rotatable about the central axis (E4). At least one fifth magnet (e.g., the plurality of fifth magnets (8)) is a cylindrical magnet having a central axis (e.g., the fifth central axis (E5)) that is parallel to the folding axis, and has an N pole and a S pole arranged on both sides of the central axis, and can be arranged in the first case (31) so as to be rotatable about the central axis.

[0196] The embodiments disclosed in this disclosure and the drawings are merely specific examples to more easily explain the technical content and to help understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of various embodiments of the present disclosure should be construed as including modified or altered forms in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein. Additionally, it will be understood that any embodiment(s) described herein can be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein. In particular, it is emphasized that while the present disclosure is presented in a form that provides multiple embodiments each defining multiple features, some of these embodiments are connected only by reference to the same drawing or drawings. The present disclosure should be understood to include all combinations of these embodiments, unless there is an apparent contradiction between two (or more) embodiments. That is, if features are presented as optional in the present disclosure, all combinations of such optional features are included in the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In an external case (3) for a foldable electronic device (1), A first case (31) configured to be attached to the first housing (11) of the above foldable electronic device (1); A second case (32) configured to be attached to a second housing (12) of the foldable electronic device (1) hinge-connected to the first housing (11); A pen holder (33) positioned in the hinge housing (13) between the first housing (11) and the second housing (12) and configured to receive a pen (9) when the foldable electronic device (1) is in a folded state; A first magnet (4) placed in the above pen holder (33); A second magnet (5) placed in the above pen holder (33); A third magnet (6) placed in the second case (32); A fourth magnet (7) placed in the first case (32); and Including a fifth magnet (8) placed in the first case (31) above, One end of the pen holder (33) is attached to the second case (32) through the attractive force between the second magnet (5) and the third magnet (6), and In the unfolded state of the above foldable electronic device (1), the other end of the pen holder (33) is attached to the first case (31) through the attractive force between the first magnet (4) and the fourth magnet (7). An outer case in which the other end of the pen holder (33) is attached to the first case (31) through the attractive force between the first magnet (4) and the fifth magnet (8) in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1).

2. In paragraph 1, The attractive force between the second magnet (5) and the third magnet (6) is configured to be stronger than the attractive force between the first magnet (4) and the fourth magnet (7) in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1), and An outer case configured such that the attractive force between the second magnet (5) and the third magnet (6) is stronger than the attractive force between the first magnet (4) and the fifth magnet (8) in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The first magnet (4) includes a first central axis (E1) parallel to the folding axis (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), and is positioned on the pen holder (33) so as to be rotatable about the first central axis (E1), and The second magnet (5) includes a second central axis (E2) parallel to the folding axis (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), and an outer case positioned on the pen holder (33) so as to be rotatable about the second central axis (E2).

4. In paragraph 3, The above first magnet (4) is a cylindrical magnet with N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides based on the first central axis (E1), and The second magnet (5) is an outer case that is a cylindrical magnet with N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides based on the second central axis (E2).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The third magnet (6) includes a third central axis (E3) parallel to the folding axis (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), and an outer case positioned in the second case (32) so as to be rotatable about the third central axis (E3).

6. In paragraph 5, The third magnet (6) is an outer case that is a cylindrical magnet with N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides based on the third central axis (E3).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The fourth magnet (7) includes a fourth central axis (E4) that is parallel to the folding axis (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), and is positioned in the first case (31) so as to be rotatable about the fourth central axis (E4), and The fifth magnet (8) includes a fifth central axis (E5) that is parallel to the folding axis (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), and an outer case that is arranged in the first case (31) so as to be rotatable about the fifth central axis (E5).

8. In paragraph 7, The above fourth magnet (7) is a cylindrical magnet with N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides based on the fourth central axis (E4), and The above fifth magnet (8) is an outer case that is a cylindrical magnet with N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides based on the fifth central axis (E5).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above pen holder (33) is an outer case including an opening (1101) to expose the pen (9) to the outside.

10. In an external case (3) for a foldable electronic device (1), A first case (31) configured to be attached to the first housing (11) of the above foldable electronic device (1); A second case (32) configured to be attached to the second housing (12) of the foldable electronic device (1) hinge-connected to the first housing (11) A pen holder (33) configured to cover a hinge housing (13) between the first housing (11) and the second housing (12) when the foldable electronic device (1) is in a folded state, and to accommodate a pen (9); At least one first magnet (4) arranged in the pen holder (33) and providing a magnetic force to attach the pen holder (33) to the first case (31); and At least one second magnet (5) is disposed on the pen holder (33) and provides a magnetic force to attach the pen holder (33) to the second case (32), An outer case configured such that the attractive force between the at least one second magnet (5) and the second case (32) is stronger than the attractive force between the at least one first magnet (4) and the first case (31).

11. In Article 10, An outer case comprising at least one third magnet (6) arranged in the second case (32) corresponding to at least one second magnet (5).

12. In paragraph 11, The at least one second magnet (5) is a cylindrical magnet having a central axis (E2) parallel to the folding axis (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), and having N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides based on the central axis (E2), and is arranged in the pen holder (33) so as to be rotatable based on the central axis (E2). The at least one third magnet (6) is a cylindrical magnet having a central axis (E3) parallel to the folding axis (A), and having N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides with respect to the central axis (E3), and an outer case arranged in the second case (32) so as to be rotatable with respect to the central axis (E3).

13. In any one of paragraphs 10 to 12, In the unfolded state of the above foldable electronic device (1), the at least one first magnet (4) is configured to exert an attractive force on the first area (3101) of the first case (31), and An outer case configured such that the at least one first magnet (4) exerts an attractive force on the second area (3102) of the first case (31) in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1).

14. In paragraph 13, The first region (3101) of the first case (31) includes at least one fourth magnet (7), and The second region (3102) of the first case (31) is an outer case including at least one fifth magnet (8).

15. In paragraph 14, The at least one fourth magnet (7) is a cylindrical magnet having a central axis (E4) parallel to the folding axis (A) of the foldable electronic device (1), and having N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides with respect to the central axis (E4), and is arranged in the first case (31) so as to be rotatable with respect to the central axis (E4), and The at least one fifth magnet (8) is a cylindrical magnet having a central axis (E5) parallel to the folding axis (A), and having N and S poles respectively arranged on both sides with respect to the central axis (E5), and an outer case arranged in the first case (31) so as to be rotatable with respect to the central axis (E5).

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