Electronic device comprising hinge assembly

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing, a third housing, and a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly may include: a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing to the first housing; a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the third housing to the first housing; and a rotary link structure. The rotary link structure may include: a first link (261) having one end connected to the first hinge structure; a second link (262) having one end connected to the second hinge structure; and an intermediate link (263) to which the other end of the first link and the other end of the second link are connected and which is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis. When the first housing is rotated, the third housing may be rotated in response to the movement of the first link and the second link.

Description

Electronic device comprising a hinge assembly

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a hinge assembly for implementing a multi-foldable structure.

[0002] Advances in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology are integrating diverse functions into a single portable electronic device. For example, electronic devices can implement not only communication functions but also entertainment functions such as gaming, multimedia functions such as music and video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, or even calendar management and electronic wallet functions. These electronic devices are being miniaturized for convenient portability. Meanwhile, as mobile communication services expand into the realm of multimedia services, demand is growing for larger displays on electronic devices to facilitate convenient access to multimedia services, beyond voice calls and text messages. However, display size is a trade-off with miniaturization.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background information 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] Aspects of the present disclosure address at least the problems and / or disadvantages mentioned above, and provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention provides a hinge assembly for implementing a multi-foldable structure.

[0005] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the following description, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments presented.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing, a third housing, and a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly may include a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing to the first housing, a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the third housing to the first housing, and a rotation link structure. The rotation link structure may include a first link having one end connected to the first hinge structure, a second link having one end connected to the second hinge structure, and an intermediate link having the other end of the first link and the other end of the second link connected and configured to rotate about a rotation axis. When the first housing rotates, the third housing may rotate according to movement of the first link and the second link of the rotation link structure.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing, a third housing, and a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly may include a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing to the first housing, a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the third housing to the first housing, and a rotation link structure. The rotation link structure may include a first link having one end connected to the first hinge structure, a second link having one end connected to the second hinge structure, and an intermediate link having the other end of the first link and the other end of the second link connected and configured to rotate about a rotation axis. When the first housing rotates, the first link and the second link of the rotation link structure rotate, thereby rotating the third housing. The above rotation link structure may be configured such that when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination with respect to the first housing is greater than the first designated angle, the third housing begins to rotate based on the rotation of the second housing.

[0008] Other aspects, advantages and salient features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of various embodiments of the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0009] The above-described aspects or other aspects, configurations and / or advantages of one embodiment of the present disclosure may be further clarified by the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an electronic device showing a hinge assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of portion A of FIG. 5 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7A is a side view of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 7b is an enlarged view illustrating a first hinge structure and a rotation link structure of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a rotational motion of a housing of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, and 9F are side views of an electronic device in an intermediate state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9g is a side view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a hinge assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a side view of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Throughout the attached drawings, similar reference numbers may be assigned to similar parts, components and / or structures.

[0025] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, is provided to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the present invention as defined by the claims and their equivalents. While the following description includes numerous specific details to aid understanding, these should be considered merely illustrative. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations of the various embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0026] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not intended to be limited by their bibliographic meanings, but are merely used by the inventors to ensure a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided solely for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the present invention, which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0027] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a surface of a part" includes reference to one or more of these surfaces.

[0028] It should be noted that each block of the flowchart and the combination of flowcharts can be performed by one or more computer programs containing instructions. The one or more computer programs may be stored entirely in a single memory device, or the one or more computer programs may be divided into different parts stored in different memory devices.

[0029] Any function or operation described herein may be processed by a single processor or a combination of processors. A single processor or a combination of processors is a circuit that performs processing, and includes circuits such as an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a Wi-Fi chip, a Bluetooth® chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, a connection chip, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a fingerprint sensor controller, a display driver integrated circuit (IC), an audio codec chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on a chip (SoC), an IC, and the like.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)) omitted, or one or more other components added. In one embodiment, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0032] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0033] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0034] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0035] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0036] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0037] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0038] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external device (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a hall area program device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0039] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0040] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0041] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0042] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0043] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0044] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0045] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0046] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0047] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0048] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0049] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. In one embodiment, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0050] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent to a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0051] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0052] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0053] In the detailed description below, the longitudinal direction, the width direction, and / or the thickness direction of the electronic device may be mentioned, and the longitudinal direction may be defined as the 'Y-axis direction', the width direction as the 'X-axis direction', and / or the thickness direction as the 'Z-axis direction'. In one embodiment, with respect to the direction that a component is oriented, 'negative / positive (- / +)' may be mentioned together with the orthogonal coordinate system illustrated in the drawings. For example, the front of the electronic device or the housing may be defined as the 'side facing the +Z direction', and the back side may be defined as the 'side facing the -Z direction'. In one embodiment, the side of the electronic device or the housing may include a region facing the +X direction, a region facing the +Y direction, a region facing the -X direction, and / or a region facing the -Y direction. Also, in one embodiment, the 'X-axis direction' may mean both the '-X direction' and the '+X direction'. It should be noted that this is based on the orthogonal coordinate system illustrated in the drawings for the sake of brevity of description, and that the description of these directions or components does not limit the one embodiment disclosed in this document. For example, the aforementioned front or rear facing direction may vary depending on whether the electronic device is unfolded or folded, and the aforementioned direction may be interpreted differently depending on the user's gripping habits.

[0054] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document. FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document. The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 and 3 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1.

[0055] FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 are diagrams illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document.

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (201), a hinge cover (270) covering a foldable portion of the housing (201), and a flexible or foldable display (202) (hereinafter, simply referred to as “display” 202) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201). According to one embodiment, the surface on which the display (202) is disposed is defined as the front surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first front surface (210a), the second front surface (220a), and the third front surface (230a)). And, the surface opposite to the front surface is defined as the back surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first back surface (210b), the second back surface (220b), and the third back surface (230b)). Additionally, the surface surrounding the space between the front and the back is defined as a side surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first side surface (211a), a second side surface (221a), and a third side surface (231a)).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220) rotatably coupled to one side (e.g., -X direction side) of the first housing (210), a third housing (230) rotatably coupled to the opposite side (e.g., +X direction side) of the first housing (210), and a rear cover (280). According to one embodiment, the rear cover (280) may include a first rear cover (281) disposed on the first rear side (210b), a second rear cover (282) disposed on the second rear side (220b), and a third rear cover (283) disposed on the third rear side (230b). According to one embodiment, a hinge assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly (203) of FIG. 5) may be disposed within the housing (201). The hinge assembly (203) may provide a second folding axis (A2) in which the center of rotation of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) becomes the first folding axis (A1) and the center of rotation of the third housing (230) with respect to the first housing (210). The housing (201) of the electronic device (101) is not limited to the shape and combination shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the first rear cover (281) may be formed integrally, the second housing (220) and the second rear cover (282) may be formed integrally, and the third housing (230) and the third rear cover (283) may be formed integrally.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be connected to a hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (240) and the second hinge structure (250) of FIG. 5) and may include a first front surface (210a) facing a first direction and a first rear surface (210b) facing a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second housing (220) may be connected to a hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (240) of FIG. 5) and may include a second front surface (220a) facing a third direction and a second rear surface (220b) facing a fourth direction opposite to the third direction. The second housing (220) may rotate with respect to the first housing (210) about the first hinge structure (240). The third housing (230) is connected to a hinge structure (e.g., the second hinge structure (250) of FIGS. 5 and 6) and may include a third front surface (230a) facing a fifth direction and a third rear surface (230b) facing a sixth direction opposite to the fifth direction. The third housing (230) may rotate relative to the first housing (210) about the second hinge structure (250). Accordingly, the electronic device (101) may be changed into a folded state or an unfolded state. When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the third housing (230) may be positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). When the electronic device (101) is folded, the first front surface (210a) may face the third front surface (230a), and the second front surface (220a) may face the third rear surface (230b). When the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the first direction, the third direction, and the fifth direction may be substantially parallel. Below, unless otherwise stated, the directions are described based on the unfolded state of the electronic device (101).

[0059] As described below, the angles or distances between the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may vary depending on whether the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. In one embodiment, the folding axes (A1, A2) are provided along the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101), but the direction of the folding axes (A1, A2) is not limited thereto. For example, depending on the external design or the user's usage habits, the electronic device (101) may be understood to include the folding axes (A1, A2) extending along the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction).

[0060] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a structure into which a digital pen can be inserted. For example, a hole into which the digital pen can be inserted may be formed on a side of the second housing (220) or a side of the third housing (230) of the electronic device (101).

[0061] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may be formed of a metallic or non-metallic material having a rigidity of a size selected to support the display (202). At least a portion formed of the metallic material may provide a ground plane of the electronic device (101) and may be electrically connected to a ground conductor provided on a printed circuit board of the electronic device (101) disposed within the housing (201).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (281) is disposed on one side (e.g., the -X direction side) of the first folding axis (A1) on the rear surface of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular periphery, and the periphery may be wrapped by the first housing (210). Similarly, the second rear cover (282) is disposed on the other side (e.g., the +X direction side) of the first folding axis (A1) on the rear surface of the electronic device (101) and may have its periphery wrapped by the second housing (220). The third rear cover (283) is disposed on one side of the second folding axis (A2) on the rear surface of the electronic device (101) and may have its periphery wrapped by the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first rear cover (281), a second rear cover (282), and a third rear cover (283) of various shapes.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may form a space in which various components (e.g., a printed circuit board or a battery) of the electronic device (101) may be placed. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device (101). For example, in one embodiment, at least a portion of the sub-display may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover (282). For example, the second rear cover (282) may be replaced with a display and a cover plate for protecting the display. For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through a portion of the second rear cover (282). In one embodiment, the sensors may include a proximity sensor and / or a camera device.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 3, the hinge cover (270) may include a first hinge cover (271) disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and a second hinge cover (272) disposed between the first housing (210) and the third housing (230). The hinge cover (270) may be configured to cover internal components (e.g., the first hinge structure (240) and the second hinge structure (250) of FIG. 5). According to one embodiment, the first hinge cover (271) and / or the second hinge cover (272) may be covered by parts of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) or exposed to the outside, depending on the state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a flat state or a folded state). For example, in the unfolded state, the hinge cover (270) may be substantially obscured by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and / or the third housing (230), and in the folded state (see FIG. 4), most of the outer surface of the second hinge cover (272) may be visually exposed to the outside.

[0065] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, a portion of the second hinge cover (272) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and not exposed. When the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, all or a portion of the second hinge cover (272) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) and not exposed. As another example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the first hinge cover (271) and the second hinge cover (272) may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). As another example, when the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230) are in an intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle with respect to the first housing (210), a portion of the first hinge cover (271) and / or the second hinge cover (272) may be visually exposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) or between the first housing (210) and the third housing (230). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than that in the completely folded state. In one embodiment, the first hinge cover (271) and / or the second hinge cover (272) may include a curved surface.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the display (202) may be placed on a space formed by the housing (201). For example, the display (202) may be seated on a recess formed by the housing (201) and may constitute most of the front surface of the electronic device (101). Accordingly, the front surface of the electronic device (101) may include the display (202) and a portion of the first housing (210) adjacent to the display (202), a portion of the second housing (220), and a portion of the third housing (230). And, the back of the electronic device (101) may include a first back cover (281) and a portion of a first housing (210) adjacent to the first back cover (281), a second back cover (282) and a portion of a second housing (220) adjacent to the second back cover (282), a third back cover (283) and a portion of a third housing (230) adjacent to the third back cover (283).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the display (202) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. According to one embodiment, the display (202) may include folding regions (202d, 202e), a first display region (202a) arranged on one side (e.g., the left side of the first folding region (202d) or the -X direction as shown in FIG. 2) with respect to the first folding region (202d), a second display region (202b) arranged between the first folding region (202d) and the second folding region (202e), and a third display region (202c) arranged on one side (e.g., the right side of the first folding region (202d) or the +X direction as shown in FIG. 2) with respect to the second folding region (202e).

[0068] However, the division of regions of the display (202) according to the embodiment disclosed in this document is exemplary, and the display (202) may be divided into four or more regions depending on the structure or function. For example, according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the regions of the display (202) may be divided by folding regions (202d, 202e) extending in one axis (e.g., Y axis) or folding axes (A1, A2). In one embodiment, the display (202) may also be divided into regions based on another folding region (e.g., a folding region parallel to the X axis) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the X axis). According to one embodiment, the display (202) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer (not shown) configured to detect a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

[0069] Below, the operation of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) according to the state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the flat state and the folded state) and each area of ​​the display (202) are described.

[0070] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a flat state (e.g., FIGS. 2 and 3) (or open state), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may be arranged such that they form an angle of substantially about 180 degrees with respect to each other and the first display area (202a), the second display area (202b), and the third display area (202c) face substantially the same direction. For example, in the flat state, the surface of the first display area (202a) and the surface of the second display area (202b) may form an angle of substantially about 180 degrees with respect to each other and face the same direction (e.g., toward the front of the electronic device). The folding areas (202d, 202e) may form a substantially same plane with the first display area (202a), the second display area (202b), and the third display area (202c).

[0071] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 4) (or a closed state), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may be disposed to face each other. When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the third housing (230) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The surface of the first display area (202a) of the display (202) and the surface of the third display area (202c) form a narrow angle (e.g., between 0 degrees and about 10 degrees) with each other and may substantially face each other. The surface of the second display area (202b) of the display (202) and the surface of the third rear cover (283) form a narrow angle (e.g., between 0 degrees and about 10 degrees) with each other and can substantially face each other. At least a portion of the folding areas (202d, 202e) may be formed as a curved surface having a predetermined curvature.

[0072] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an intermediate state (see FIGS. 9b to 9g), the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to the first housing (210). The surface of the first display area (202a) of the display (202) and the surface of the second display area (202b) may form an angle that is greater than the angle in the folded state and less than the angle in the unfolded state. The surface of the first display area (202a) of the display (202) and the surface of the third display area (202c) may form an angle that is greater than the angle in the folded state and less than the angle in the unfolded state. The folding areas (202d, 202e) may be formed of a curved surface having at least a certain curvature, and the curvature may be less than that in the folded state.

[0073] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an electronic device showing a hinge assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of portion A of FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7A is a side view of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B is an enlarged view illustrating a first hinge structure and a rotation link structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 5 may be all or partly the same or similar to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 4. The housing (201) and the hinge cover (270) of the embodiments of FIGS. 5, 6, 7a, 7b, and 8 may be referred to as the housing (201) and the hinge cover (270) of the embodiments of FIGS. 2 to 4. Hereinafter, the description given above with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4 regarding the configurations with the same reference numbers as the configurations of FIGS. 5, 6, 7a, 7b, and 8 may not be duplicated.

[0075] FIGS. 5, 6, 7a, 7b, and 7b may illustrate an electronic device (101) in a folded state (e.g., FIG. 4). Referring to FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (201), a hinge assembly (203), and a hinge cover (270).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The second housing (220) may be rotatably connected to one side of the first housing (210) (e.g., the left side or the -X direction side with respect to the first housing (210) of FIG. 5). The third housing (230) may be rotatably connected to the other side of the first housing (210) (e.g., the left side or the +X direction side with respect to the first housing (210) of FIG. 5).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first side structure (211) forming a side surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first side surface (211a) of FIGS. 2 to 4). The second housing (220) may include a second side structure (221) forming a side surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the second side surface (221a) of FIGS. 2 to 4). The third housing (220) may include a third side structure (231) forming a side surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the third side surface (231a) of FIGS. 2 to 4). According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first rear cover (281), a second rear cover (e.g., the second rear cover (282) of FIG. 3), and a third rear cover (e.g., the third rear cover (283) of FIG. 3). The housing (201) of the electronic device (101) is not limited to the shape and combination shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, and may be implemented by a combination and / or combination of other shapes or parts.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may form a space in which various components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., hinge structures (240, 250)) may be placed. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device (101), for example, at least a portion of the sub-display may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover (282).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) can rotate relative to the first housing (210) about a hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (240)). The third housing (230) can rotate relative to the first housing (210) about a hinge structure (e.g., the second hinge structure (250)). Accordingly, the electronic device (101) can be changed into a folded state or an unfolded state. According to one embodiment, in the folded state of the electronic device (101) (see FIGS. 4 and 5), the third housing (230) can be positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (see FIGS. 2, 3 and 9h), the first housing (210) can be positioned between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230).

[0080] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a flexible or foldable display (e.g., display (202) of FIG. 2) disposed within a space formed by a housing (201). According to one embodiment, the surface on which the display (202) is disposed is defined as the front surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., first front surface (210a), second front surface (220a), and third front surface (230a)). When the electronic device (101) is folded, the front surface of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first front surface (210a) of FIG. 1) may face the front surface of the third housing (e.g., the third front surface (230a) of FIG. 2), and the front surface of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second front surface (220a) of FIG. 2) may face the front surface of the third housing (e.g., the third rear surface (230b) of FIG. 2). When the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the front surface of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first front surface (210a) of FIG. 1), the front surface of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second front surface (220a) of FIG. 2), and the front surface of the third housing (e.g., the third front surface (230a) of FIG. 2) may face substantially the same direction and / or may be disposed on substantially the same plane.

[0081] In one embodiment, the hinge assembly (203) may include a first hinge structure (240) rotatably connecting a second housing (220) to a first housing (210), a second hinge structure (250) rotatably connecting a third housing (230) to the first housing (210), and a rotation link structure (260) configured to mutually link the rotation or pivot of the first hinge structure (240) and the second hinge structure (250).

[0082] In one embodiment, the hinge assembly (203) can provide a folding axis (e.g., the first folding axis (A1) of FIG. 2) that becomes the center of rotation of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) and a folding axis (e.g., the second folding axis (A2) of FIG. 2) that becomes the center of rotation of the third housing (230) with respect to the first housing (210). In one embodiment, when the second housing (220) is rotated about the folding axis with respect to the first housing (210), the first hinge structure (240) fixedly connected to the second housing (220) rotates, and the rotation link structure (260) can link the rotation of the first hinge structure (240) with the rotation of the second hinge structure (250). When the second hinge structure (250) is rotated, the third housing (230) fixedly connected to the second hinge structure (250) can be rotated. In the present disclosure, the rotation of the first hinge structure (240) or the second hinge structure (250) may mean that at least one gear constituting the first hinge structure (240) or the second hinge structure (250) is rotated.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 7B, according to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) may include a first gear (241), a second gear (242), a third gear (243), a fourth gear (244), a first fixing member (245), and a second fixing member (246). According to one embodiment, the first fixing member (245) may be fixedly connected to the second housing (220). The first gear (241) may be rotatably connected to the first fixing member (245). For example, the first fixing member (245) may include a shaft portion that serves as a center of rotation of the first gear (241). According to one embodiment, the second fixing member (246) may be fixedly connected to the first housing (210). The fourth gear (244) may be rotatably connected to the second fixing member (246). For example, the second fixed member (246) may include a shaft portion that becomes the center of rotation of the fourth gear (244). The second gear (242) is disposed between the first gear (241) and the third gear (243) and may mesh with the first gear (241) and the third gear (243). The third gear (243) is disposed between the second gear (242) and the fourth gear (244) and may mesh with the second gear (242) and the fourth gear (244). According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) is rotated, the rotational force of the second housing (220) can be sequentially transmitted to the third housing (230) through the first hinge structure (240), the rotational link structure (260), and the second hinge structure (250), and the third housing (230) can be rotated in a direction opposite to the rotational direction of the first housing (210) (e.g., counterclockwise with reference to FIG. 6) (e.g., clockwise with reference to FIG. 6), and vice versa. For example, the rotational force of the first gear (241) based on the rotation of the second housing (220) can be sequentially transmitted to the rotational link structure (260) through the second gear (242), the third gear (243), and the fourth gear (244).In one embodiment, the teeth sizes of the second gear (242) and the third gear (243) may be smaller than the teeth sizes of the first gear (241) and the fourth gear (244), and the number of teeth of the second gear (242) and the third gear (243) may be greater than the number of teeth of the first gear (241) and the fourth gear (244). For example, the third gear (243) may be substantially the same as the second gear (242). For example, the fourth gear (244) may be substantially the same as the first gear (241).

[0084] Referring to FIG. 7B, the first gear (241) may include a first gear region (241a) where no teeth are formed and a second gear region (241b) where teeth are formed. The first gear region (241a) may be narrower than the second gear region (241b). For example, the angle at which the first gear region (241a) is formed (angle (G) in FIG. 7B) may be about 37 degrees to about 50 degrees or about 44 degrees to about 47 degrees, and may be about 45 degrees as an example. When the electronic device (101) rotates the second housing (220) relative to the first housing (210) in a range greater than 0 and less than or equal to the first designated angle from the closed state, the second gear (242) may face the first gear region (241a) of the first gear (241). When the first gear area (241a) of the first gear (241) faces the second gear (242), the first gear area (241a) can be slightly spaced apart from the teeth of the second gear (242). Accordingly, when the electronic device (101) is rotated in a range of greater than 0 and less than the first specified angle with respect to the first housing (210) from a closed state, the second gear (242) can remain stationary (see FIG. 9b). When the electronic device (101) is rotated in a range of greater than the first specified angle with respect to the second housing (220) from a closed state, the second gear (242) can engage the teeth of the second gear area (241b) of the first gear (241) and can be rotated based on the rotational force of the first gear (241). The first specified angle may be from about 20 degrees to about 40 degrees or from about 25 degrees to about 35 degrees, and as an example may be about 30 degrees.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7A, according to one embodiment, a gear array (251) and a third fixing member (252) may be included. According to one embodiment, the third fixing member (252) may be fixedly connected to the third housing (230), and a gear array (251) may be rotatably connected to the third fixing member (252). The third fixing member (252) may include a shaft portion that serves as a center of rotation of a gear connected to the third fixing member (252) among the gear arrays (251). For example, the gear array (251) may include a plurality of gears (e.g., three) arranged in a row. For example, the plurality of gears constituting the gear array (251) may be an odd number. For example, the plurality of gears constituting the gear array (251) of the second hinge structure (250) may have smaller teeth and a larger number of teeth than the first gear (241) and the fourth gear (244) of the first hinge structure (240). For example, the plurality of gears constituting the gear array (251) may be substantially identical to each other.

[0086] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge cover (270) forming part of the exterior. The hinge cover (270) may include a first hinge cover (271) that surrounds at least a portion of the first hinge structure (240) (e.g., the first hinge cover (271) of FIGS. 2 to 4) and a second hinge cover (272) that surrounds at least a portion of the second hinge structure (250) (e.g., the second hinge cover (272) of FIGS. 2 to 4). For example, the first hinge structure (240) may be arranged in a space formed by the first housing (210), the second housing (220) and the first hinge cover (271). For example, the second hinge structure (250) may be arranged in a space formed by the first housing (210), the third housing (230) and the second hinge cover (272). In the present disclosure, the first hinge cover (271) and the second hinge The shape of the cover (272) may be changed, for example, in FIG. 7b, a part of the first hinge cover (271) surrounding the first hinge structure (240) may be omitted, and the first hinge cover (271) may be configured so that the internal configuration (e.g., the first hinge structure (240) is not visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) (see FIG. 9a). According to one embodiment, the first connecting link (264) of the rotation link structure (260) described below may be fixedly connected to the first hinge cover (271).

[0087] In one embodiment, the rotation link structure (260) may be configured to interlock the rotation of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) or the rotation of the first hinge structure (240) with respect to the first housing (210) and the rotation of the third housing (230) with respect to the first housing (210) or the rotation of the second hinge structure (250). Referring to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the rotation link structure (260) may include a first link (261) connected to a first hinge structure (240), a second link (262) connected to a second hinge structure (250), an intermediate link (263) connecting the first link (261) and the second link (262), a first connecting link (264) connecting the first link (261) to the first hinge structure (240) (e.g., a fourth gear (244)), and a second connecting link (265) connecting the second link (262) to the second hinge structure (250) (e.g., a gear array (251)). According to one embodiment, the rotary link structure (260) may include a first link shaft (261a) rotatably connected to the first link (261) and the intermediate link (263), a second link shaft (262a) rotatably connected to the second link (262) and the intermediate link (263), and a third link shaft (263a) that serves as a center of rotation of the intermediate link (263). For example, the first link (261) may be rotatably connected to the first link shaft (261a), the second link (262) may be rotatably connected to the second link shaft (262a), and the intermediate link (263) may be rotatably connected to the third link shaft (263a).

[0088] In one embodiment, the intermediate link (263) can be configured to be rotatable within a predetermined angular range about a rotational axis provided by a third link shaft (263a). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) can include a guide recess (213) that accommodates a portion of the first link shaft (261a). The guide recess (213) can limit the rotational angle of the intermediate link (263). For example, the range of the rotational angle of the intermediate link (263) can be about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees or about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, and as an example, about 45 degrees. According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 6, when the second housing (220) is rotated to unfold with respect to the first housing (210), the first link (261) may be moved toward the second hinge structure (250), and the intermediate link (263) may be rotated clockwise while the first link axis (261a) moves along the guide recess (213), thereby causing the second link (262) to be moved toward the first hinge structure (240) and the third housing (230) to be rotated to unfold with respect to the first housing (210).

[0089] In one embodiment, the rotation link structure (260) may be configured to rotate the second housing (220) faster than the first housing (210) when the angle formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) is within a specific angular range. According to one embodiment, the intermediate link (263) may be formed such that the first link (261) and the second link (262) are not parallel to each other when the electronic device (101) is folded. For example, the intermediate link (263) may have a shape such as an 'ㅅ' shape. According to one embodiment, the intermediate link (263) may be formed such that the first link axis (261a) is positioned at the same or similar height (e.g., Z-axis height) as the third link axis (263a), and the second link axis (262a) is positioned at a lower height (e.g., Z-axis height) than the first link axis (261a) and the third link axis (263a). In other words, the third link axis (263a) and the first link axis (261a) may be arranged at a similar or equal distance to the rear surface of the first housing (210) (e.g., the -Z direction surface or the second rear surface (220b) of FIG. 3), and the second link axis (262a) may be arranged closer to the rear surface of the first housing (210) than the first link axis (261a) and the third link axis (263a).

[0090] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the operations of the second housing (220), the third housing (230), the first hinge structure (240), the second hinge structure (250), and the rotation link structure (260) when the electronic device (101) changes from a folded state to an unfolded state will be described. For example, when the second housing (220) is rotated in a first rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ① or counterclockwise in FIGS. 7A and 7B) which is the direction in which it opens with respect to the first housing (210), the first gear (241) may be rotated in the first rotational direction, and the second gear (242) may be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ② or clockwise in FIGS. 7A and 7B) which is the opposite direction to the first rotational direction. At this time, the third gear (243) can be rotated in the first rotation direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ① of FIGS. 7a and 7b or counterclockwise), and the fourth gear (244) can be rotated in the second rotation direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ② of FIGS. 7a and 7b or clockwise). When the fourth gear (244) is rotated in the second rotation direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ② of FIGS. 7a and 7b or clockwise), the first hinge cover (271) can be tilted to form an obtuse angle with respect to the first housing (210) (see FIGS. 9c to 9f), and the first connecting link (264) fixed to the first hinge cover (271) can move together with the first hinge cover (271). At this time, the first link (261) can be moved away from the first connecting link (264) and the first hinge cover (271) or closer to the second hinge structure (250). For example, the first link (261) can be moved in a third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ of FIG. 7a or clockwise). Referring to FIG. 7b, as the first link shaft (261a) connected to the first link (261) slides within the guide recess (213), the first link (261) can be moved in a third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ of FIG. 7a or clockwise).For example, the intermediate link (263) connected to the first link shaft (261a) can be rotated in the third rotation direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ⓐ in FIG. 7a or clockwise) based on the movement of the first link (261). At this time, the second link shaft (262a) connected to the intermediate link (263) can be moved in the third rotation direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ⓐ in FIG. 7a or clockwise). The second link (262) can be moved together with the intermediate link (263) in the third rotation direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ⓐ in FIGS. 9a and 9b or clockwise) by the rotation of the intermediate link (263). For example, the second link (262) can be moved in a direction away from the second hinge cover (272) or a direction closer to the first hinge structure (240). Based on the movement of the second link (262), the gear array (251) of the second hinge structure (250) is rotated, and the third housing (230) can be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ② in FIGS. 7a and 7b or the clockwise direction) in which it opens with respect to the first housing (210) or the third housing (230). For example, the third rotational direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ⓐ in FIGS. 7a and 7b) and the second rotational direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ② in FIGS. 7a and 7b) may refer to substantially the same direction (e.g., the clockwise or counterclockwise direction).

[0091] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a rotational motion of a housing of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, and 9F are side views of an electronic device in an intermediate state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9G is a side view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 8 to 9g may be referred to as the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 5 to 7b.

[0093] The dotted line T in FIG. 8 may represent a rotational trajectory of the third housing (230) as viewed from one side. According to one embodiment, the width of the second housing (220) and the width of the third housing (230) may be set so that the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) do not interfere with each other when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are rotated simultaneously. Here, the width of the second housing (220) or the third housing (230) may refer to the length of the second housing (220) or the third housing (230) in the X-axis direction based on the folded state of the electronic device (101) (see FIG. 7a). Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the width of the third housing (230) may be shorter than the width of the second housing (220). The rotation radius of the second housing (220) may be greater than the rotation radius of the third housing (230). In the present disclosure, the width of the second housing (220) and the width of the third housing (230) may be changed. For example, the width of the second housing (220) and the width of the third housing (230) may be changed depending on factors such as the time difference at which the two housings (220, 230) begin to rotate when the third housing (230) rotates based on the rotation of the second housing (220), or the rotational speed of the two housings (220, 230).

[0094] FIGS. 9A to 9F may show the electronic device (101) in an intermediate state between a folded state (see FIG. 7A) and an unfolded state (see FIG. 9G).

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 9A to 9F, when the second housing (220) is rotated in a direction in which it unfolds or opens relative to the first housing (210) (e.g., in the direction of arrow ① or counterclockwise in FIGS. 9A and 9B), the rotation link structure (260) operates so that the third housing (230) can unfold or open relative to the first housing (210) in conjunction with the rotation of the second housing (220). When the state of FIG. 9A is sequentially changed to the state of FIG. 9F, the second housing (220) is rotated so that the angle (α) it forms relative to the first housing (210) gradually increases, and the first link (261) can move away from the first hinge cover (271) or toward the second hinge structure (250) (e.g., in the direction of arrow ③ in FIGS. 9A and 9B). Based on the movement of the first link (261), the intermediate link (263) of the rotary link structure (260) can be rotated in a third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ in FIGS. 9A and 9B or clockwise). At this time, the third link shaft (263a) can be slidably moved in the third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ in FIGS. 9A and 9B or clockwise) within the guide recess (213). The second link (262) can be moved together with the intermediate link (263) in the third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ in FIGS. 9A and 9B or clockwise) by the rotation of the intermediate link (263). For example, the second link (262) can be moved in a direction away from the second hinge cover (272) or closer to the first hinge structure (240). Based on the movement of the second link (262), the gear array (e.g., the gear array (251) of FIG. 7a) of the second hinge structure (250) is rotated, and the third housing (230) can be rotated in a direction in which it unfolds or opens relative to the first housing (210) (e.g., the direction of arrow ② of FIGS. 9a and 9b or clockwise) in conjunction with the rotation of the second housing (220).

[0096] FIG. 9A may represent a state in which a second housing (220) of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment is rotated by a first specified angle from a folded state of the electronic device (101) (see FIG. 7A). In other words, FIG. 9A may represent a state in which the second housing (220) is rotated such that an angle (α) formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) becomes a first specified angle (α1). According to one embodiment, when the angular range through which the second housing (220) is rotated from the folded state of the electronic device (101) (see FIG. 7a) or the angular range through which the second housing (220) is rotated with respect to the first housing (210) is greater than 0 and less than or equal to the first designated angle (α1), a portion of the second gear (242) of the first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (240) of FIG. 7b) may face a first gear area (241a) where teeth of the first gear (241) are not formed. Accordingly, the rotational force of the first gear (241) may not be transmitted to the remaining components of the first hinge structure (240) including the second gear (242). Since the rotational force of the first gear (241) is not transmitted to the remaining components of the first hinge structure (240), the third housing (230) linked to the second housing (220) through the hinge assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly (203) of FIG. 6) can remain stationary. As the teeth of the first gear (241) face the first gear area (241a) where they are not formed, the rotation is performed by, for example, the first designated angle (α1) may be about 20 degrees to about 40 degrees or about 25 degrees to about 35 degrees, and as an example, may be about 30 degrees. According to one embodiment, while the second housing (220) is rotated by a first designated angle (α1) from the folded state of the electronic device (101) (see FIG. 7a), the third housing (230) remains stationary, thereby preventing interference due to rotation of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230).

[0097] FIGS. 9B and 9C may illustrate a state in which the second housing (220) of the electronic device (101) according to one embodiment is rotated by an angle greater than a first specified angle (e.g., the first specified angle (α1) of FIG. 9A) from the folded state of the electronic device (101) (see FIG. 7A). In other words, FIGS. 9B and 9C may illustrate a state in which the second housing (220) is rotated such that the angle (α) formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) is greater than the first specified angle. According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) is rotated such that the angle (α) formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) is greater than the first specified angle (e.g., the first specified angle (α1) of FIG. 9A or about 30 degrees), the second housing (220) may be rotated with respect to the first housing (210). For example, the angle (α) that the second housing (220) of FIG. 9B forms with respect to the first housing (210) may be about 45 degrees. For example, the angle (α) that the second housing (220) of FIG. 9C forms with respect to the first housing (210) may be about 60 degrees. Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9C, according to one embodiment, while the angle (α) that the second housing (220) forms with respect to the first housing (210) is rotated from a first designated angle (e.g., the first designated angle (α1) of FIG. 9A or about 30 degrees) to about 60 degrees, the angle (or distance) that the third housing (230) is rotated with respect to the first housing (210) may be greater than the angle (or distance) that the second housing (220) is rotated with respect to the first housing (210). In this case, in FIG. 9b, that is, the angle (β) formed by the third housing (230) with respect to the first housing (210) may be greater than the first specified angle (e.g., the first specified angle (α1) of FIG. 9a or about 30 degrees).That is, when the second housing (220) rotates in a range of an angle (α) formed with respect to the first housing (210) greater than or equal to a first designated angle (e.g., the first designated angle (α1) of FIG. 9a or about 30 degrees) and less than about 60 degrees, the rotational speed of the third housing (230) may be greater than the rotational speed of the second housing (220). For example, the rotational speed of the third housing (230) may be controlled by factors such as the number and diameter of gears of the gear array (251) of the second hinge structure (250) (e.g., the gear array (251) of FIG. 7a), the number of teeth of the gears, and the shape of the intermediate link (263) of the rotational link structure (260).

[0098] FIGS. 9D, 9E, and 9F may represent a state in which the second housing (220) of the electronic device (101) according to one embodiment is rotated such that the angle formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) is greater than a first designated angle (e.g., the first designated angle (α1) of FIG. 9A). For example, the angle (α) formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) of FIG. 9D may be about 90 degrees. For example, the angle (α) formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) of FIG. 9E may be about 120 degrees. For example, the angle (α) formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) of FIG. 9F may be about 150 degrees. Referring to FIG. 9d, in one embodiment, when the second housing (220) rotates at an angle (α) relative to the first housing (210) in a range greater than or equal to a first specified angle (e.g., the first specified angle (α1) of FIG. 9a or about 30 degrees) and less than a second specified angle, the rotational speed of the third housing (230) may be greater than the rotational speed of the second housing (220). Referring to FIG. 9d, for example, when the second housing (220) rotates at an angle (α) relative to the first housing (210) in a range greater than or equal to a first specified angle (e.g., the first specified angle (α1) of FIG. 9a or about 30 degrees) and less than a second specified angle, the angle (β) that the third housing (230) rotates at the first housing (210) may be less than the angle (α) that the second housing (220) rotates at the first housing (210). Referring to FIGS. 9E and 9F, according to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) is rotated in a range where the angle (α) formed with respect to the first housing (210) exceeds the second specified angle, the rotational speed of the third housing (230) may be substantially the same as the rotational speed of the second housing (220).Referring to FIGS. 9E and 9F, for example, when the second housing (220) is rotated in a range where the angle (α) formed with respect to the first housing (210) exceeds the second specified angle, the angle (β) formed by the third housing (230) with respect to the first housing (210) may be substantially the same as or similar to the angle (α) formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210). For example, the second specified angle may be greater than about 90 degrees and less than about 120 degrees.

[0099] FIG. 9G may illustrate an unfolded or open state of an electronic device (101) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. According to an embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is unfolded, the angle (α) formed by the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210) and the angle (β) formed by the third housing (230) with respect to the first housing (210) may be substantially the same, and may each be, for example, a third specified angle. For example, the third specified angle may be about 180 degrees and may have an error of within about 10 degrees. According to an embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in the unfolded state illustrated in FIG. 9G, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may form the third specified angle (e.g., about 180 degrees) with respect to the first housing (210) substantially simultaneously. Depending on the embodiment, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may be rotated to form an angle greater than about 180 degrees with respect to the first housing (210).

[0100] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a hinge assembly of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a side view of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 10 and 11 may be all or partly the same as the configuration of the electronic device (101) of the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 9g. The housing (201) of FIG. 10 may be referred to as the housing (201) of FIGS. 5 and 8. The hinge assembly (203) of FIG. 11 may be referred to as the hinge assembly (203) of FIGS. 5 to 7a and 8.

[0102] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 12, when compared to the embodiments of FIGS. 5, 6, 7a, 7b, 8, and 9a to 9g, may have a difference in that the rotation of the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230) with respect to the first housing (210) can be implemented not only manually but also automatically. According to one embodiment, as described below, the electronic device (101) according to the embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 12 can implement automation of the rotation of the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230) by adding a button (e.g., the button (205) of FIG. 10) and / or a motor (e.g., the motor (267) of FIG. 11) to the electronic device (101) according to the embodiments of FIGS. 5, 6, 7a, 7b, 8, and 9a to 9g. The embodiments of FIGS. 5, 6, 7a, 7b, 8, and 9a to 9g do not conflict with the embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 12, and the descriptions of the embodiments of FIGS. 5, 6, 7a, 7b, 8, and 9a to 9g may be applied identically or similarly to the embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 12. Hereinafter, the contents described above with reference to FIGS. 5, 6, 7a, 7b, 8, and 9a to 9g with respect to the components assigned the same reference numerals may not be repeated.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a button (205) disposed on a portion of the housing (201). According to one embodiment, the button (205) may be configured to detect a user input (e.g., touch or pressure) to change the electronic device (101) between a folded state (see FIGS. 10 to 12) and an unfolded state (see FIG. 9g). According to one embodiment, the button (205) may be disposed on a second side structure of the second housing (220). In the present disclosure, the shape and arrangement of the button (205) may be changed. For example, the button (205) may be disposed on a first side structure (211) of the first housing (210), a third side structure of the third housing (230), a third rear cover (283), or a first rear cover (e.g., the first rear cover (281) of FIG. 3). In one embodiment, the button (205) may be implemented as a touch button rather than a mechanical button, and may not be visually exposed on the exterior of the electronic device (101), for example. For example, a secondary display may be arranged in at least a portion of the second rear cover (282), and a button may be implemented in a portion of the secondary display to detect a user's input (e.g., touch or pressure) to change the electronic device (101) between a folded state and an unfolded state.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 11, in one embodiment, the rotary link structure (260) may further include a motor (267). According to one embodiment, the motor (267) may provide power to rotate the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) relative to the first housing (210). The motor (267) may be connected to the intermediate link (263) via a third link shaft (263a). The third link shaft (263a) may be fixedly connected to the intermediate link (263) and the motor (267).

[0105] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 12, the operations of the second housing (220), the third housing (230), the first hinge structure (240), the second hinge structure (250), and the rotation link structure (260) when the electronic device (101) changes from a folded state to an unfolded state will be described. When a user's input (e.g., touch or pressure) is detected on the button (205) of FIG. 10, the motor (267) may be driven to rotate the third link shaft (263a). When the motor (267) is driven, the intermediate link (263) connected to the third link shaft (263a) may be rotated in a third rotational direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ⓐ of FIG. 12 or clockwise). The first link axis (261a) and the second link axis (262a) can be moved in the third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ of FIG. 12 or clockwise) together with the intermediate link (263). At this time, the first link axis (261a) can be slidably moved in the third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ of FIG. 9a and FIG. 9b or clockwise) within the guide recess (213). Due to the movement of the first link axis (261a), the first link (261) can be moved in the third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ of FIG. 12 or clockwise). For example, the first link (261) can be moved in a direction approaching the first hinge structure (240). Due to the movement of the second link axis (262a), the second link (262) can be moved in a third rotational direction (e.g., in the direction of arrow ⓐ of FIG. 12 or clockwise). For example, the second link (262) can be moved away from the second hinge cover (272) or closer to the first hinge structure (240).

[0106] According to one embodiment, based on the movement of the first link (261), the first hinge cover (271) fixed to the first connecting link (264) can be tilted to form an obtuse angle with respect to the first housing (210) (see FIGS. 9c to 9f), and the fourth gear (244) can be rotated in the second rotational direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ② of FIGS. 7a and 7b or clockwise). The rotational force of the fourth gear (244) is transmitted to the first gear (241) via the third gear (243) and the second gear (242), and the first gear (241) can be rotated in the first rotational direction (e.g., the direction of arrow ① of FIG. 12 or counterclockwise). Accordingly, the second housing (220) connected to the first gear (241) by the first fixing member (245) can be rotated in the first rotational direction, which is the direction in which it opens with respect to the first housing (210). When the second link (262) approaches the first hinge structure (240) in the direction indicated by arrow ③ in FIG. 12, the gear array (251) of the second hinge structure (250) rotates, and the third housing (230) can be rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., the direction indicated by arrow ② in FIG. 12 or clockwise) in which the third housing opens with respect to the first housing (210) or the third housing (230). The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 10 to 12 can be manually changed between a folded state (or closed state) and an unfolded state (or open state) as described above with reference to FIGS. 7A and 9A to 9G. For example, by manually rotating the second housing (220) in an open or closed direction relative to the first housing (210), the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) linked thereto can be rotated relative to the first housing (210), thereby changing the electronic device (101) between a folded state (or closed state) and an unfolded state (or open state).

[0107] A multi-foldable electronic device may generally have a structure in which a user must unfold or fold a second housing and a third housing that are rotatably connected to a first housing, respectively, and this structure may be more cumbersome to operate than an electronic device having a bar structure or a foldable structure in which two housings are folded.

[0108] Aspects of the present disclosure are intended to solve at least the problems and / or disadvantages described above and to provide at least the advantages described below.

[0109] According to an embodiment disclosed in the present document, a multi-foldable electronic device may be provided. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second housing and a third housing connected to opposite sides of a first housing, and may be configured such that when a user manually or automatically unfolds or folds the second housing relative to the first housing, the third housing linked to the second housing may unfold or fold without additional manipulation. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second housing and the third housing may be unfolded or folded relative to the first housing at once by manipulating either the second housing or the third housing without having to unfold or fold the second housing and the third housing, which are rotatably connected to the first housing, respectively, thereby providing convenient manipulation.

[0110] However, the challenges addressed by this disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned challenges, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. The benefits achieved by this disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned benefits, and various benefits may be provided, directly or indirectly, through this document.

[0111] The electronic device including the hinge assembly and the lee of the present disclosure described above is not limited to the above-described embodiments and drawings, and it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that various substitutions, modifications, and changes are possible within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0112] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may be provided. The electronic device may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), and a hinge assembly (203). The hinge assembly may include a first hinge structure (240) that rotatably connects the second housing to the first housing, a second hinge structure (250) that rotatably connects the third housing to the first housing, and a rotation link structure (260). The rotation link structure may include a first link (261) having one end connected to the first hinge structure, a second link (262) having one end connected to the second hinge structure, and an intermediate link (263) that is connected to the other end of the first link and the other end of the second link and is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis. When the first housing is rotated, the third housing can be rotated according to the movement of the first link and the second link of the rotation link structure.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can be changed between a folded state in which the first housing and the second housing are positioned facing each other with the third housing interposed therebetween, and an unfolded state in which the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing.

[0114] In one embodiment, the hinge assembly may be configured such that when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination relative to the first housing is greater than a first designated angle (α1), the third housing begins to rotate based on the rotation of the second housing.

[0115] In one embodiment, when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination relative to the first housing is less than the first specified angle, the third housing can remain stationary.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure may include a first gear (241) connected to the second housing, a second gear (242) engaged with the first gear, a third gear (243) engaged with the second gear, and a fourth gear (244) engaged with the third gear and connected to the first housing.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the first gear (241) includes a first gear area (241a) in which no teeth are formed, and when the second housing is inclined at an angle less than a first designated angle with respect to the first housing, a portion of the third gear may face the first gear area of ​​the first gear.

[0118] In one embodiment, the first gear may include a second gear region (241b) disposed around the first gear region and having teeth formed thereon. When the second housing is inclined at an angle greater than a first designated angle with respect to the first housing, the third gear may mesh with the second gear region of the first gear.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure may include a first hinge cover (271) that surrounds at least a portion of the first hinge structure. The rotation link structure may include a first connection link (236) that is rotatably connected to the first hinge structure and fixedly connected to the first hinge cover.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the intermediate link may include a first portion to which the other end of the first link is connected and a second portion to which the other end of the second link is connected and which is inclined with respect to the first portion.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the rotary link structure may further include a first link shaft (261a) connecting the first link and the intermediate link. The first housing may include a guide recess (213) formed to accommodate a portion of the first link shaft.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the guide recess may be configured to limit the angular range through which the intermediate link is rotated about the rotational axis.

[0123] In one embodiment, when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination relative to the first housing is less than or equal to a first specified angle, the intermediate link may remain stationary. When the second housing is rotated such that the inclination relative to the first housing is greater than the first specified angle, the intermediate link may be configured to rotate about the rotational axis.

[0124] In one embodiment, when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination relative to the first housing exceeds the first specified angle and is less than or equal to the second specified angle, the angle formed by the third housing relative to the first housing may be less than the angle formed by the second housing relative to the first housing.

[0125] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the second housing and the third housing may be configured to form a third designated angle (α3) with respect to the first housing, respectively.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the first housing may include a first front surface (210a) facing the third housing in the folded state of the electronic device. The second housing may include a second front surface (220a) facing in a direction parallel to the direction in which the first front surface faces in the unfolded state of the electronic device. The third housing may include a third front surface (230a) facing in a direction parallel to the direction in which the first front surface faces in the unfolded state of the electronic device.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the device may further include a flexible display (202) disposed across the first front surface, the second front surface, and the third front surface.

[0128] In one embodiment, the guide recess is configured to limit the angular range to between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees.

[0129] In one embodiment, the guide recess is configured to limit the angular range to about 45 degrees.

[0130] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may be provided. The electronic device may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), and a hinge assembly (203). The hinge assembly may include a first hinge structure (240) that rotatably connects the second housing to the first housing, a second hinge structure (250) that rotatably connects the third housing to the first housing, and a rotation link structure (260). The rotation link structure may include a first link (261) having one end connected to the first hinge structure, a second link (262) having one end connected to the second hinge structure, and an intermediate link (263) that is connected to the other end of the first link and the other end of the second link and is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis. When the first housing is rotated, the first link and the second link of the rotation link structure are rotated, thereby causing the third housing to rotate. The rotation link structure may be configured such that when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination with respect to the first housing is greater than a first designated angle (α1), the third housing begins to rotate based on the rotation of the second housing.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the intermediate link may include a first portion to which the other end of the first link is connected and a second portion to which the other end of the second link is connected and which is inclined with respect to the first portion.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the rotary link structure may further include a first link shaft (261a) connecting the first link and the intermediate link. The first housing may include a guide recess (213) formed to accommodate a portion of the first link shaft.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can be changed between a folded state in which the first housing and the second housing are positioned facing each other with the third housing interposed therebetween, and an unfolded state in which the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing.

[0134] In one embodiment, when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination relative to the first housing is less than the first specified angle, the intermediate link can remain stationary.

[0135] While this disclosure has been described by way of example and example, it should be understood that the specific embodiment is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the overall scope of this disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0136] An electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed in this document may take various forms. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. The electronic device according to an embodiment of this document is not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0137] It should be understood that the embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to a specific embodiment, but include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiment. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the item, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0138] The term "module" used in one embodiment of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0139] An embodiment of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0141] According to one embodiment, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to one embodiment, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to one embodiment, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0142] It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure, as described in the claims and specification, may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0143] Such software may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores one or more computer programs (software modules), wherein the one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions, which, when individually or collectively executed by one or more processors of the electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform the method of the present disclosure.

[0144] Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or non-volatile storage, such as, for example, a storage device such as read-only memory (ROM), whether erasable or rewritable, or may be stored in, for example, random access memory (RAM), memory chips, devices or integrated circuits, or optically or magnetically readable media such as, for example, a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a magnetic disk or a magnetic tape. It will be appreciated that the storage devices and the storage media are various embodiments of a computer program or non-transitory machine-readable storage suitable for storing a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed, implement various embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, various embodiments provide a program comprising code for implementing an apparatus or method as claimed in any of the claims herein, and a non-transitory machine-readable storage storing such a program.

[0145] While the present disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), It comprises a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230) and a hinge assembly (203). The above hinge assembly, A first hinge structure (240) that rotatably connects the second housing to the first housing; A second hinge structure (250) that rotatably connects the third housing to the first housing; and It includes a rotation link structure (260) including a first link (261) having one end connected to the first hinge structure, a second link (262) having one end connected to the second hinge structure, and an intermediate link (263) having the other end of the first link and the other end of the second link connected and configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis. An electronic device, wherein when the first housing is rotated, the third housing is rotated according to the movement of the first link and the second link.

2. In paragraph 1, The above hinge assembly is such that the second housing is inclined at a first designated angle (α) with respect to the first housing. 1 ) is rotated to form a greater angle, the third housing is configured to begin to rotate based on the rotation of the second housing.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, An electronic device, wherein the first hinge structure comprises a first gear (241) connected to the second housing, a second gear (242) engaged with the first gear, a third gear (243) engaged with the second gear, and a fourth gear (244) engaged with the third gear and connected to the first housing.

4. In paragraph 3, An electronic device in which the first gear (241) includes a first gear area (241a) in which no teeth are formed, and when the second housing is inclined at an angle less than a first designated angle with respect to the first housing, a part of the third gear faces the first gear area of ​​the first gear.

5. In paragraph 4, An electronic device in which the first gear includes a second gear region (241b) formed with teeth and arranged around the first gear region, and when the second housing is inclined at an angle greater than the first designated angle with respect to the first housing, the third gear engages with the second gear region of the first gear.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, Further comprising a first hinge cover (271) that surrounds at least a portion of the first hinge structure; An electronic device, wherein the above-described rotation link structure includes a first connection link (236) rotatably connected to the first hinge structure and fixedly connected to the first hinge cover.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, An electronic device wherein the intermediate link includes a first portion to which the other end of the first link is connected and a second portion to which the other end of the second link is connected and which is inclined with respect to the first portion.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above-mentioned rotary link structure further includes a first link shaft (261a) connecting the first link and the intermediate link, An electronic device, wherein the first housing includes a guide recess (213) formed to accommodate a portion of the first link shaft.

9. In paragraph 8, An electronic device wherein the above guide recess is configured to limit the angular range through which the intermediate link is rotated about the rotation axis.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, When the second housing is rotated such that the inclination angle with respect to the first housing is less than the first designated angle, the intermediate link remains stationary, An electronic device, wherein the intermediate link is configured to rotate about the rotation axis when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination angle with respect to the first housing is greater than the first designated angle.

11. In Article 10, An electronic device wherein when the second housing is rotated such that the inclination relative to the first housing exceeds the first specified angle and is less than or equal to the second specified angle, the angle formed by the third housing relative to the first housing is smaller than the angle formed by the second housing relative to the first housing.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, An electronic device, wherein the first housing and the second housing can be changed between a folded state in which the first housing and the second housing are positioned facing each other with the third housing interposed therebetween, and an unfolded state in which the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing.

13. In paragraph 12, When the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the second housing and the third housing are each angled at a third designated angle (α) with respect to the first housing. 3 ) An electronic device configured to form a circuit.

14. In paragraph 12, The first housing includes a first front side (210a) facing the third housing in the folded state of the electronic device, The second housing includes a second front side (220a) facing in a direction parallel to the direction in which the first front side faces in the unfolded state of the electronic device, An electronic device, wherein the third housing includes a third front side (230a) facing in a direction parallel to the direction in which the first front side faces when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

15. In paragraph 14, An electronic device further comprising a flexible display (202) arranged across the first front surface, the second front surface, and the third front surface.

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