Antenna structure and electronic device including same

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an electronic device comprises: a deformable housing including a first antenna radiator and a second antenna radiator; a flexible display disposed on the housing; at least one circuit board disposed inside the housing; and a communication module disposed on the at least one circuit board and electrically connected to the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator. When the housing is in a folded state, at least a portion of the flexible display is visibly exposed to the outside of the electronic device and may be spaced apart from the second antenna radiator. Various other embodiments may also be possible.

Description

Antenna structure and electronic device including the same

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to electronic devices, for example, to antenna structures and electronic devices including the same.

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

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

[0004] As mobile communication services expand into the realm of multimedia services, the display size of electronic devices may increase to accommodate users' full access to multimedia services beyond voice calls and text messages. Accordingly, a foldable, flexible display may be placed across the entire housing structure, allowing for a separate, foldable structure.

[0005] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a multi-foldable housing, a flexible display, at least one circuit board, or a communication module. The multi-foldable housing may include a second housing, a first housing, an out-folding hinge, or an in-folding hinge. The first housing may include a first side surface or a first antenna radiator. The first antenna radiator may be disposed on the first side surface. The first housing may be rotatably connected to one side surface of the second housing. The third housing may include a second side surface or a second antenna radiator. The second antenna radiator may be disposed on the second side surface. The second antenna radiator may be rotatably connected to the other side surface of the second housing. The out-folding hinge may be disposed between the second housing and the first housing. The in-folding hinge may be disposed between the second housing and the third housing. The flexible display may be disposed on a front surface of each of the first housing, the second housing, or the third housing. The at least one circuit board may be disposed within the housing. The communication module may be disposed on the at least one circuit board. The communication module may be electrically connected to the first antenna radiator or the second antenna radiator. When the housing is in a folded state, at least a portion of the flexible display positioned on the out-folding hinge may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device. When the housing is in a folded state, at least a portion of the flexible display positioned on the out-folding hinge may be spaced apart from the second antenna radiator.

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

[0008] FIG. 2A is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2b is a rear view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3A is a perspective view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3b is a front view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3c is a rear view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3D is a side view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 3e is a side view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a side view viewed from the opposite direction to FIG. 3d.

[0015] FIG. 3f is a top view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3g is a bottom view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is an exploded perspective view viewed from a different direction from FIG. 4.

[0019] FIG. 6A is a conceptual diagram illustrating an antenna structure of a first housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 6b is a conceptual diagram illustrating an antenna structure of a third housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3D according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3d according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a first folding area and a third-second side surface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3D according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 9b is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3d according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 9c is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3d according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 11a is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 11b is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 11c is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 12b is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC' of FIG. 3f according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 13 is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 14 is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0037] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0038] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0039] 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).

[0040] 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).

[0041] 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).

[0042] 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.

[0043] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0049] 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.

[0050] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0055] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0056] 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)).

[0057] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0058] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0059] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0060] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0061] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0063] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0064] FIG. 2A is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 2b is a rear view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 3A is a perspective view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 3b is a front view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 3c is a rear view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 3D is a side view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 3e is a side view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is a side view viewed from the opposite direction to FIG. 3d.

[0071] FIG. 3f is a top view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 3g is a bottom view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIGS. 2A to 2B are diagrams illustrating an unfolded state among folding states of an electronic device (101) (or a foldable electronic device (101)) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 3A to 3G are diagrams illustrating a folded state of an electronic device (101) (or a foldable electronic device (101)) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 3G is an example of the electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 1 and may be a foldable or bendable electronic device (101).

[0074] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, a spatial coordinate system (or an orthogonal coordinate system) including an X-axis, a Y-axis, or a Z-axis is illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 14. The X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, or the Z-axis direction is defined or described based on the first housing (210), but is not limited thereto. In describing one embodiment of the present disclosure, the 'first direction and / or second direction' may mean a direction parallel to the Z-axis direction.

[0075] The embodiments of FIGS. 2a to 3g may be combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1 or the embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 14.

[0076] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 3G may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 2A to 3G, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (201) or a flexible or foldable display (hereinafter, abbreviated as “flexible display (203)”) disposed in a space formed by the housing (201) (e.g., display module (160) of FIG. 1).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may be defined and / or referred to as a foldable housing (201), a multi foldable housing (201), or a deformable housing (201).

[0079] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A and 2B), a surface on which the flexible display (203) is disposed (or a surface on which the flexible display (203) is visible from the outside of the electronic device (101)) may be defined as a front surface (201a) of the electronic device (101). When the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, a surface opposite to the front surface (201a) may be defined as a rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (101). In addition, a surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the rear surface may be defined as a side surface of the electronic device (101).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), a first hinge structure (240), or a second hinge structure (250). The first hinge structure (240) may be defined and / or referred to as a first hinge assembly. The second hinge structure (250) may be defined and / or referred to as a second hinge assembly.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) may be connected to the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The second housing (220) may be rotatably connected to the first housing (210) via the first hinge structure (240). According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (250) may be connected to the second housing (220) or the third housing (230). The third housing (230) may be rotatably connected to the second housing (220) via the second hinge structure (250).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a sensor region. The sensor region may be disposed on the housing (201). An illumination sensor and an image sensor may be disposed in the sensor region. The illumination sensor may detect the amount of light surrounding the electronic device (101), and the image sensor may convert light incident through a camera lens into a digital signal. The illumination sensor and the image sensor may be visually exposed to the flexible display (203). According to one embodiment, the illumination sensor and the image sensor may not be visually exposed. For example, the camera may be configured as an under display camera (UDC). Pixels in an area of ​​the flexible display (203) corresponding to the position of the UDC may be configured differently from pixels in other areas, so that the image sensor and / or the camera may not be visually exposed.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be connected to a first hinge structure (240). The first housing (210) may include a first front surface facing a first direction (e.g., the +Z direction of FIG. 2a) or a first rear surface facing a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the -Z direction of FIG. 2b). The second housing (220) may be connected to the first hinge structure (240). The second housing (220) may include a second front surface facing a first direction (e.g., the +Z direction of FIG. 2a) or a second rear surface facing a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the -Z direction of FIG. 2b).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) can rotate relative to the second housing (220) about the first hinge structure (240). The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can be provided in a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G) or an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first rear surface of the first housing (210) can face the second rear surface of the second housing (220). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first front surface of the first housing (210) can face the opposite direction from the second front surface of the second housing (220). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an unfolded state, the first front side of the first housing (210) may face in the same direction as the second front side of the second housing (220). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an unfolded state, the first rear side of the first housing (210) may face in the same direction as the second rear side of the second housing (220).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be connected to the second hinge structure (250). The third housing (230) may be connected to the second hinge structure (250). The third housing (230) may include a third front surface facing a first direction (e.g., the +Z direction of FIG. 2a), or a third rear surface facing a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the -Z direction of FIG. 2b).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) can rotate relative to the third housing (230) about the second hinge structure (250). The second housing (220) and the third housing (230) can be provided in a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G) or an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the second front side of the second housing (220) can face the third front side of the third housing (230). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the second rear side of the second housing (220) can face the opposite direction from the third rear side of the third housing (230). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in an unfolded state, the second front side of the second housing (220) may face in the same direction as the third front side of the third housing (230). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in an unfolded state, the second rear side of the second housing (220) may face in the same direction as the third rear side of the third housing (230).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first-first side surface (211), a first-second side surface (212), a first-third side surface (213), or a first-fourth side surface (214). The side surfaces of the first housing (210) may be defined and / or referred to as edge portions, side walls, or side portions of the first housing (210). The side surfaces of the first housing (210) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the first housing (210) between the first front surface and the first rear surface. The first-first side surface (211) of the first housing (210) may be referred to as the first side surface (211) of the first housing (210).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second-first side (221), a second-second side (222), a second-third side (223), or a second-fourth side (224). The side surfaces of the second housing (220) may be defined and / or referred to as edge portions, side walls, or side portions of the second housing (220). The side surfaces of the second housing (220) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the second housing (220) between the second front side and the second rear side. The second-first side (221) of the second housing (220) may be referred to as one side surface of the second housing (220). The second-second side (222) of the second housing (220) may be referred to as the other side surface (222) of the second housing (220).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third-first side (231), a third-second side (232), a third-third side (233), or a third-fourth side (234). The side surfaces of the third housing (230) may be defined and / or referred to as edge portions, side walls, or side portions of the third housing (230). The side surfaces of the third housing (230) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the third housing (230) between the third front side and the third rear side. The third-second side surface (232) of the third housing (230) may be referred to as the second side surface (232) of the third housing (230).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the first-first side (211) of the first housing (210) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to a folding axis of the first hinge structure (240) between the first front side and the first rear side. The first-first side (211) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to the first-second side (212). The first-third side (213) may connect the upper end of the first-first side (211) and the upper end of the first-second side (212). The first-third side (213) may be defined and / or referred to as an upper side of the first housing (210). The first-fourth side (214) may connect the lower end of the first-first side (211) and the lower end of the first-second side (212). The first-fourth side (214) may be defined and / or referred to as the lower side of the first housing (210). The first-fourth side (214) may be spaced apart and arranged parallel to the first-third side (213). The first-third side (213) and / or the first-fourth side (214) may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the first-first side (211) and / or the first-second side (212). The first-second side (212) may be connected to the second-first side (221) via the first hinge structure (240).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the second-first side (221) of the second housing (220) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to the folding axis of the second hinge structure (250) between the second front side and the second rear side. The second-first side (221) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to the second-second side (222). The second-third side (223) may connect the upper end of the second-first side (221) and the upper end of the second-second side (222). The second-third side (223) may be defined and / or referred to as the upper side of the second housing (220). The second-fourth side (224) may connect the lower end of the second-first side (221) and the lower end of the second-second side (222). The second-fourth side (224) may be defined and / or referred to as the lower side of the second housing (220). The second-fourth side (224) may be spaced apart from and arranged in parallel with the second-third side (223). The second-third side (223) and / or the second-fourth side (224) may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the second-first side (221) and / or the second-second side (222). The second-first side (221) may be connected to the first-second side (212) via the first hinge structure (240). The second-second side (222) may be connected to the third-first side (231) via the second hinge structure (250).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the third-first side (231) of the third housing (230) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to a folding axis of the third hinge structure between the third front side and the third rear side. The third-first side (231) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to the third-second side (232). The third-third side (233) may connect the upper end of the third-first side (231) and the upper end of the third-second side (232). The third-third side (233) may be defined and / or referred to as the upper side of the third housing (230). The third-fourth side (234) may connect the lower end of the third-first side (231) and the lower end of the third-second side (232). The third-fourth side (234) may be defined and / or referred to as the lower side of the third housing (230). The third-fourth side (234) may be spaced apart and arranged parallel to the third-third side (233). The third-third side (233) and / or the third-fourth side (234) may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the third-first side (231) and / or the third-second side (232). The third-first side (231) may be connected to the second-second side (222) via the second hinge structure (250).

[0093] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) about the first hinge structure (240) (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3g), the first-first side (211) can be brought closer to the second-second side (222). When the first housing (210) is unfolded relative to the second housing (220) about the first hinge structure (240) (e.g., FIGS. 2a to 2b), the first-first side (211) can be moved away from the second-second side (222).

[0094] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) is folded relative to the third housing (230) about the second hinge structure (250) (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3g), the second-first side (221) can be brought closer to the third-second side (232). When the second housing (220) is unfolded relative to the third housing (230) about the second hinge structure (250) (e.g., FIGS. 2a to 2b), the second-first side (221) can be moved away from the third-second side (232).

[0095] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a fully folded state, the first back side and the second back side may face each other, and the distance between the 1-1 side side (211) and the 2-2 side side (222) may be formed to be the greatest distance. According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged on both sides with the first hinge structure (240) as the center, and may have a shape that is overall symmetrical with respect to the first hinge structure (240). As described below, the angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the state of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) is an unfolded state, a folded state, or a partially unfolded (or partially folded) intermediate state.

[0096] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a fully folded state, the second front side and the third front side may face each other, and the distance between the second-first side side (221) and the third-second side side (232) may be formed to be the greatest distance. According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may be arranged on both sides with the second hinge structure (250) as the center, and may have a shape that is overall symmetrical with respect to the second hinge structure (250). As described below, the angle or distance between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may vary depending on whether the state of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) is an unfolded state, a folded state, or a partially unfolded (or partially folded) intermediate state.

[0097] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may together form a recess for accommodating the flexible display (203). 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 material or a non-metallic material having a rigidity of a selected size to support the flexible display (203). At least a portion formed of the metallic material may provide a ground plane of the electronic device (101) and may be electrically connected to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board disposed inside the foldable housing (201).

[0098] According to one embodiment, a protective member (213, 223, 233) may be arranged on the periphery of the flexible display (203). The protective member may be formed integrally with the side surfaces of the foldable housing (201) or as a separate structure. The flexible display (203) may not be adhered to the side surfaces of the foldable housing (201) and / or the protective member. A gap may be formed between the flexible display (203) and the protective member. The protective member may be configured to cover the internal structure of the electronic device (101) from the outside or protect the internal structure of the electronic device (101) from external impact. According to one embodiment, the protective member may be configured to cover the wiring arranged in the flexible display (203) from the outside or protect it from external impact. The above protective member may be defined and / or referred to as a deco member, a peripheral member, or a rim member. The above protective member may be formed of, but is not limited to, a non-metallic material.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the protective member (213, 223, 233) may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), or a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230). The first protective member (216) may be defined as a part of the first housing (210). The second protective member (226) may be defined as a part of the second housing (220). The third protective member (236) may be defined as a part of the third housing (230).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first rear cover (215). The first rear cover (215) may be disposed on one side of the first hinge structure (240) at the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular edge. The edge of the first rear cover (215) may be wrapped by side surfaces of the first housing (210).

[0101] In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second rear cover (225). The second rear cover (225) may be disposed on the other side of the first hinge structure (240) or on one side of the second hinge structure (250) on the rear side (201b) of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular edge. The edge of the second rear cover (225) may be wrapped by the side surfaces of the second housing (220).

[0102] In one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third rear cover (235). The third rear cover (235) may be positioned on the other side of the second hinge structure (250) at the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular edge. The edge of the third rear cover (235) may be wrapped by the side surfaces of the third housing (230).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (215) and the second rear cover (225) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the first hinge structure (240). The second rear cover (225) and the third rear cover (235) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the second hinge structure (250). However, the first rear cover (215), the second rear cover (225), and the third rear cover (235) do not necessarily have mutually symmetrical shapes, and in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include the first rear cover (215), the second rear cover (225), and the third rear cover (235) of various shapes. In one embodiment, the first rear cover (215) may be formed integrally with the first housing (210), the second rear cover (225) may be formed integrally with the second housing (220), and the third rear cover (235) may be formed integrally with the third housing (230).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (215), the second rear cover (225), the third rear cover (235), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may form a space in which various components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a printed circuit board or a battery) may be placed. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (101). One or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the third rear cover (235). In one embodiment, the sensor may include a proximity sensor.

[0105] According to one embodiment, a front camera disposed on the front of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a camera disposed in the first housing (210) and exposed through the first display area (A1)) or a rear camera (205) exposed through the third rear cover (235) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, and / or image signal processors. The flash may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one side of the electronic device (101).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) or the second hinge structure (250) may be covered by a portion of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), or the third housing (230), or may be exposed to the outside, depending on the state (unfolded state, intermediate state, or folded state) of the electronic device (101).

[0107] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., a fully unfolded state), at least a portion of the first hinge structure (240) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and the second hinge structure (250) may be covered by the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) and not exposed.

[0108] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A to 3G, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the first hinge structure (240) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and not exposed to the outside, and the second hinge structure (250) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, at least a portion of the first hinge structure (240) may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0109] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a first intermediate state in which they are folded at a certain angle, the first hinge structure (240) may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than that in a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are fully unfolded. In one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) may include a curved surface.

[0110] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a second intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the second hinge structure (250) may be partially exposed to the outside between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than that in the state where the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are completely folded. In one embodiment, the second hinge structure (250) may include a curved surface.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may be placed on a space formed by the housing (201). For example, the flexible display (203) may be mounted on a recess formed by the housing (201) and may be viewed from the outside through the front surface (201a) (e.g., the first front surface, the second front surface, and / or the third front surface) of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may constitute a majority of the front surface (201a) (e.g., the first front surface, the second front surface, and / or the third front surface) of the electronic device (101). Accordingly, the front surface (210a) (e.g., the first front surface, the second front surface, and / or the third front surface) of the electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (203), a portion of a first housing (210) adjacent to the flexible display (203), a portion of a second housing (220) adjacent to the flexible display (203), and a portion of a third housing (230) adjacent to the flexible display (203). The back surface (201b) of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first back surface, the second back surface, and / or the third back surface) may include a first back cover (215), a portion of a first housing (210) adjacent to the first back cover (215), a second back cover (225), a portion of a second housing (220) adjacent to the second back cover (225), a first back cover (215), a portion of a first housing (210) adjacent to the first back cover (215).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may be disposed on the front surface of each of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the flexible display (203) can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. For example, the flexible display (203) may be configured to be at least partially folded or at least partially unfolded.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may include a first display area (A1), a second display area (A2), a third display area (A3), a first folding area (A4), or a second folding area (A5). The first display area (A1) may be arranged on one side of the first folding area (A4), and the second display area (A2) may be arranged on the other side of the first folding area (A4). The second display area (A2) may be arranged on one side of the second folding area (A5), and the third display area (A3) may be arranged on the other side of the second folding area (A5).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) may be disposed on the first housing (210), the second display area (A2) may be disposed on the second housing (220), and the third display area (A3) may be disposed on the third housing (230). According to one embodiment, the first folding area (A4) may connect the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) and may be disposed on the first hinge structure (240). The second folding area (A5) may connect the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3) and may be disposed on the second hinge structure (250). The division of areas of the flexible display (203) illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B is exemplary, and the display may be divided into a plurality of areas (for example, six or more or three) depending on the structure or function.

[0116] In one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to a touch panel having a touch detection circuit and a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch. For example, the flexible display (203) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to an electromagnetic induction panel that detects a stylus pen using an electromagnetic resonance (EMR) method, as an example of a touch panel.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) may have an overall symmetrical shape centered around the first folding area (A4). The second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3) may have an overall symmetrical shape centered around the second folding area (A5).

[0118] Hereinafter, the operation of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and the operation of each region of the flexible display (203) according to the state of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) (e.g., folded state, unfolded state, or first intermediate state) will be described.

[0119] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B), the first front surface of the first housing (210) and the second front surface of the second housing (220) may be arranged to form an angle of 180 degrees and face the same direction. The surface of the first display area (A1) and the surface of the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) may form an angle of 180 degrees with each other and face the same direction (e.g., toward the front of the electronic device (101)). At this time, the first folding area (A4) may form the same plane as the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2).

[0120] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3g), the first rear surface of the first housing (210) and the second rear surface of the second housing (220) may be arranged to face each other. For example, the first rear cover (215) and the second rear cover (225) may be arranged to face each other. The surface of the first display area (A1) and the surface of the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) may face opposite directions. For example, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first display area (A1) may be arranged to face the +Z direction, and the second display area (A2) may be arranged to face the -Z direction, which is the opposite direction to the +Z direction. For example, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, and the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the surface of the first display area (A1) may face the outside of the electronic device (101), and the surface of the second display area (A2) may face the surface of the third display area (A3). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, at least a portion of the first folding area (A4) may form a curved surface having a predetermined curvature. The curved surface of the first folding area (A4) may be arranged to face the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0121] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a first intermediate state, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to each other. The surface of the first display area (A1) and the surface of the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) may form an angle greater than that in the unfolded state and less than that in the folded state. At least a portion of the first folding area (A4) may form a curved surface having a certain curvature, and the curvature at this time may be smaller than that in the folded state. For example, the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first folding area (A4) in the first intermediate state may be greater than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first folding area (A4) in the folded state.

[0122] Hereinafter, the operation of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) and the operation of each area of ​​the flexible display (203) according to the state of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) (e.g., folded state, unfolded state, or second intermediate state) will be described.

[0123] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B), the second front surface of the second housing (220) and the third front surface of the third housing (230) may be arranged to form an angle of 180 degrees and face the same direction. The surface of the second display area (A2) and the surface of the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) may form an angle of 180 degrees with each other and face the same direction (e.g., the front direction of the electronic device (101)). At this time, the second folding area (A5) may form the same plane as the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3).

[0124] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G), the second rear surface of the second housing (220) and the third rear surface of the third housing (230) may face in opposite directions. For example, the second rear cover (225) may be arranged to face the -Z direction, and the third rear cover (235) may be arranged to face the +Z direction. For example, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, and the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the second rear cover (225) may face the first rear cover (215), and the third rear cover (235) may face the outside of the electronic device (101). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the surface of the second display area (A2) and the surface of the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) can be arranged to face each other. When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, at least a portion of the second folding area (A5) can form a curved surface having a predetermined curvature. The curved surface of the second folding area (A5) can be arranged to face the inside of the electronic device (101).

[0125] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a second intermediate state, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to each other. The surface of the second display area (A2) and the surface of the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) may form an angle that is smaller than an angle in an unfolded state and larger than an angle in a folded state. At least a portion of the second folding area (A5) may form a curved surface having a certain curvature, and the curvature at this time may be smaller than that in a folded state. For example, the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the second folding area (A5) in the second intermediate state may be larger than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the second folding area (A5) in the folded state.

[0126] According to one embodiment, a fully folded state of the electronic device (101) may be defined as a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded, and at the same time, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are folded. A fully unfolded state of the electronic device (101) may be defined as a state in which the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are unfolded, and at the same time, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are unfolded.

[0127] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G), the first folding area (A4) located on the first hinge structure (240) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G), the first folding area (A4) located between the first hinge structure (240) may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The second folding area (A5) located on the second hinge structure (250) may be disposed inside the electronic device (101) and not be exposed to the outside. In one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) may be defined and / or referred to as an out-folding hinge (240) that exposes a portion of the flexible display (203) to the outside of the electronic device (101) when folded, and the second hinge structure (250) may be defined and / or referred to as an in-folding hinge (250) that does not expose a portion of the flexible display (203) to the outside when folded. In one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) may be provided as an in-folding hinge, and the second hinge structure (250) may be provided as an out-folding hinge.

[0128] According to one embodiment, a state of the electronic device (101) that is fully unfolded (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B) may be defined and / or referred to as a first state of the electronic device (101), and a state of the electronic device (101) that is fully folded (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G) may be defined and / or referred to as a second state of the electronic device (101).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) can rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) with respect to each other. The first hinge structure (240) can be connected to the first-second side (212) of the first housing (210) and the second-first side (221) of the second housing (220).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (250) can rotatably connect the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) with respect to each other. The second hinge structure (250) can be connected to the 2-2 side (222) of the second housing (220) and the 3-1 side (231) of the third housing (230).

[0131] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G), the rear camera (205) may face opposite to the surface of the first display area (A1). The rear camera (205) may face the outside of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G) or when the electronic device (101) is in a completely unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first conductive portion formed of a metallic material and a first non-conductive portion formed of a non-metallic material. The first conductive portion may be defined and / or referred to as a first metallic portion. The first non-conductive portion may be defined and / or referred to as a first non-metallic portion or a first segmentation portion.

[0133] In one embodiment, the first conductive portion of the first housing (210) may form at least a portion of the side surfaces of the first housing (210), and the first non-conductive portion of the first housing (210) may form the remainder of the side surfaces of the first housing (210).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the first conductive portion of the first housing (210) may include a 1-1 conductive portion (211a), a 1-2 conductive portion (211b), a 1-3 conductive portion (211c), a 1-4 conductive portion (213a), a 1-5 conductive portion (213b), a 1-6 conductive portion (213c), a 1-7 conductive portion (214a), a 1-8 conductive portion (214b), or a 1-9 conductive portion (214c).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the first non-conductive portion of the first housing (210) may include a first-first non-conductive portion (211d), a first-second non-conductive portion (211e), a first-third non-conductive portion (213d), a first-fourth non-conductive portion (213e), a first-fifth non-conductive portion (214d), or a first-sixth non-conductive portion (214e).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the first-first side (211) of the first housing (210) may include a first-first conductive portion (211a), a first-second conductive portion (211b), a first-third conductive portion (211c), a first-first non-conductive portion (211d), or a first-second non-conductive portion (211e). The first-first conductive portion (211a) may be disposed between the first-second conductive portion (211b) and the first-third conductive portion (211c). The first-first conductive portion (211a) may be separated from the first-second conductive portion (211b) by the first-first non-conductive portion (211d) and may not be electrically connected to the first-second conductive portion (211b). The first-first conductive portion (211a) may be separated from the first-third conductive portion (211c) by the first-second non-conductive portion (211e), and may not be electrically connected to the first-third conductive portion (211c). The first-second conductive portion (211b) may be arranged vertically with the first-fifth conductive portion (213b), and may be connected to the first-fifth conductive portion (213b). The first-third conductive portion (211c) may be arranged vertically with the first-eighth conductive portion (214b), and may be connected to the first-eighth conductive portion (214b).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first-third side (213) of the first housing (210) may include a first-fourth conductive portion (213a), a first-fifth conductive portion (213b), a first-sixth conductive portion (213c), a first-third non-conductive portion (213d), or a first-fourth non-conductive portion (213e). The first-fourth conductive portion (213a) may be disposed between the first-fifth conductive portion (213b) and the first-sixth conductive portion (213c). The first-fourth conductive portion (213a) may be separated from the first-fifth conductive portion (213b) by the first-third non-conductive portion (213d), and may not be electrically connected to the first-fifth conductive portion (213b). The 1-4 conductive portion (213a) may be separated from the 1-6 conductive portion (213c) by the 1-4 non-conductive portion (213e), and may not be electrically connected to the 1-6 conductive portion (213c). The 1-5 conductive portion (213b) may be arranged perpendicular to the 1-2 conductive portion (211b), and may be connected to the 1-2 conductive portion (211b). The 1-6 conductive portion (213c) may be arranged perpendicular to the 1-2 side surface (212), and may be connected to the 1-2 side surface (212).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the first-fourth side (214) of the first housing (210) may include a first-seventh conductive portion (214a), a first-eighth conductive portion (214b), a first-ninth conductive portion (214c), a first-fifth non-conductive portion (214d), or a first-sixth non-conductive portion (214e). The first-seventh conductive portion (214a) may be disposed between the first-eighth conductive portion (214b) and the first-ninth conductive portion (214c). The first-seventh conductive portion (214a) may be separated from the first-eighth conductive portion (214b) by the first-fifth non-conductive portion (214d), and may not be electrically connected to the first-eighth conductive portion (214b). The 1-7th conductive portion (214a) may be separated from the 1-9th conductive portion (214c) by the 1-6th non-conductive portion (214e), and may not be electrically connected to the 1-9th conductive portion (214c). The 1-8th conductive portion (214b) may be arranged vertically with the 1-3rd conductive portion (211c), and may be connected to the 1-3rd conductive portion (211c). The 1-9th conductive portion (214c) may be arranged vertically with the 1-2nd side surface (212), and may be connected to the 1-2nd side surface (212).

[0139] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second conductive portion formed of a metallic material and a second non-conductive portion formed of a non-metallic material. The second conductive portion may be defined and / or referred to as a second metallic portion. The second non-conductive portion may be defined and / or referred to as a second non-metallic portion or a second segmentation portion.

[0140] In one embodiment, the second conductive portion of the second housing (220) may form at least a portion of the side surfaces of the second housing (220), and the second non-conductive portion of the second housing (220) may form the remainder of the side surfaces of the second housing (220).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the second conductive portion of the second housing (220) may include a second-first conductive portion (223a), a second-second conductive portion (223b), a second-third conductive portion (223c), a second-fourth conductive portion (224a), a second-fifth conductive portion (224b), or a second-sixth conductive portion (224c).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the second non-conductive portion of the second housing (220) may include a second-first non-conductive portion (223d), a second-second non-conductive portion (223e), a second-third non-conductive portion (224d), or a second-fourth non-conductive portion (224e).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the second-first side (221) may include a conductive portion or a non-conductive portion. The second-second side (222) may include a conductive portion or a non-conductive portion.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the second-third side (223) of the second housing (220) may include a second-first conductive portion (223a), a second-second conductive portion (223b), a second-third conductive portion (223c), a second-first non-conductive portion (223d), or a second-second non-conductive portion (223e). The second-first conductive portion (223a) may be disposed between the second-second conductive portion (223b) and the second-third conductive portion (223c). The second-first conductive portion (223a) may be separated from the second-second conductive portion (223b) by the second-first non-conductive portion (223d) and may not be electrically connected to the second-second conductive portion (223b). The 2-1 conductive portion (223a) may be separated from the 2-3 conductive portion (223c) by the 2-2 non-conductive portion (223e), and may not be electrically connected to the 2-3 conductive portion (223c). The 2-2 conductive portion (223b) may be arranged perpendicular to the 2-1 side surface (221) and may be connected to the 2-1 side surface (221). The 2-3 conductive portion (223c) may be arranged perpendicular to the 2-2 side surface (222) and may be connected to the 2-2 side surface (222).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the second-fourth side (224) of the second housing (220) may include a second-fourth conductive portion (224a), a second-fifth conductive portion (224b), a second-sixth conductive portion (224c), a second-third non-conductive portion (224d), or a second-fourth non-conductive portion (224e). The second-fourth conductive portion (224a) may be disposed between the second-fifth conductive portion (224b) and the second-sixth conductive portion (224c). The second-fourth conductive portion (224a) may be separated from the second-fifth conductive portion (224b) by the second-third non-conductive portion (224d) and may not be electrically connected to the second-fifth conductive portion (224b). The 2-4 conductive portion (224a) may be separated from the 2-6 conductive portion (224c) by the 2-4 non-conductive portion (224e) and may not be electrically connected to the 2-6 conductive portion (224c). The 2-5 conductive portion (224b) may be arranged perpendicular to the 2-1 side surface (221) and may be connected to the 2-1 side surface (221). The 2-6 conductive portion (224c) may be arranged perpendicular to the 2-2 side surface (222) and may be connected to the 2-2 side surface (222).

[0146] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third conductive portion formed of a metallic material and a third non-conductive portion formed of a non-metallic material. The third conductive portion may be defined and / or referred to as a third metallic portion. The third non-conductive portion may be defined and / or referred to as a third non-metallic portion or a third segmentation portion.

[0147] In one embodiment, the third conductive portion of the third housing (230) may form at least a portion of the side surfaces of the third housing (230), and the third non-conductive portion of the third housing (230) may form the remainder of the side surfaces of the third housing (230).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the third conductive portion of the third housing (230) may include a third-first conductive portion (232a), a third-second conductive portion (232b), a third-third conductive portion (232c), a third-fourth conductive portion (233a), a third-fifth conductive portion (233b), a third-sixth conductive portion (233c), a third-seventh conductive portion (234a), a third-eighth conductive portion (234b), or a third-ninth conductive portion (234c).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the third non-conductive portion of the third housing (230) may include a third-first non-conductive portion (232d), a third-second non-conductive portion (232e), a third-third non-conductive portion (233d), a third-fourth non-conductive portion (233e), a third-fifth non-conductive portion (234d), or a third-sixth non-conductive portion (234e).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the third-second side (232) of the third housing (230) may include a third-first conductive portion (232a), a third-second conductive portion (232b), a third-third conductive portion (232c), a third-first non-conductive portion (232d), or a third-second non-conductive portion (232e). The third-first conductive portion (232a) may be disposed between the third-second conductive portion (232b) and the third-third conductive portion (232c). The third-first conductive portion (232a) may be separated from the third-second conductive portion (232b) by the third-first non-conductive portion (232d) and may not be electrically connected to the third-second conductive portion (232b). The 3-1 conductive portion (232a) may be separated from the 3-3 conductive portion (232c) by the 3-2 non-conductive portion (232e), and may not be electrically connected to the 3-3 conductive portion (232c). The 3-2 conductive portion (232b) may be arranged vertically with the 3-6 conductive portion (233c), and may be connected to the 3-6 conductive portion (233c). The 3-3 conductive portion (232c) may be arranged vertically with the 3-9 conductive portion (234c), and may be connected to the 3-9 conductive portion (234c).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the third-third side (233) of the third housing (230) may include a third-fourth conductive portion (233a), a third-fifth conductive portion (233b), a third-sixth conductive portion (233c), a third-third non-conductive portion (233d), or a third-fourth non-conductive portion (233e). The third-fourth conductive portion (233a) may be disposed between the third-fifth conductive portion (233b) and the third-sixth conductive portion (233c). The third-fourth conductive portion (233a) may be separated from the third-fifth conductive portion (233b) by the third-third non-conductive portion (233d), and may not be electrically connected to the third-fifth conductive portion (233b). The 3-4 conductive portion (233a) may be separated from the 3-6 conductive portion (233c) by the 3-4 non-conductive portion (233e), and may not be electrically connected to the 3-6 conductive portion (233c). The 3-5 conductive portion (233b) may be arranged perpendicular to the 3-1 side surface (231), and may be connected to the 3-1 side surface (231). The 3-6 conductive portion (233c) may be arranged perpendicular to the 3-2 conductive portion (232b), and may be connected to the 3-2 conductive portion (232b).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the third-fourth side (234) of the third housing (230) may include a third-seventh conductive portion (234a), a third-eighth conductive portion (234b), a third-ninth conductive portion (234c), a third-fifth non-conductive portion (234d), or a third-sixth non-conductive portion (234e). The third-seventh conductive portion (234a) may be positioned between the third-eighth conductive portion (234b) and the third-ninth conductive portion (234c). The third-seventh conductive portion (234a) may be separated from the third-eighth conductive portion (234b) by the third-fifth non-conductive portion (234d) and may not be electrically connected to the third-eighth conductive portion (234b). The 3-7th conductive portion (234a) may be separated from the 3-9th conductive portion (234c) by the 3-6th non-conductive portion (234e), and may not be electrically connected to the 3-9th conductive portion (234c). The 3-8th conductive portion (234b) may be arranged perpendicular to the 3-1st side surface (231), and may be connected to the 3-1st side surface (231). The 3-9th conductive portion (234c) may be arranged perpendicular to the 3-3rd conductive portion (232c), and may be connected to the 3-3rd conductive portion (232c).

[0153] According to one embodiment, when the state of the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3g), the first-fourth non-conductive portion (213e) can be aligned on a straight line with the second-second non-conductive portion (223e) and the third-fourth non-conductive portion (233e). When the state of the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state, the first-third non-conductive portion (213d) can be aligned on a straight line with the second-first non-conductive portion (223d) and the third-third non-conductive portion (233d).

[0154] According to one embodiment, when the state of the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3g), the first-fifth non-conductive portion (214d) can be aligned on a straight line with the second-fourth non-conductive portion (224e) and the third-fifth non-conductive portion (234d). When the state of the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state, the first-sixth non-conductive portion (214e) can be aligned on a straight line with the second-third non-conductive portion (224d) and the third-sixth non-conductive portion (234e).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the conductive portions of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may serve as an antenna radiator of the electronic device (101). For example, the conductive portions of the foldable housing (201) may be electrically connected to a communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1). The electronic device (101) may be configured to transmit and receive signals with an external electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic devices (102, 104) of FIG. 1) through the conductive portions of the foldable housing (201). The communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1) of the electronic device (101) may be disposed on at least one circuit board (e.g., at least one circuit board (206) of FIG. 5). The communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1) may be electrically connected to a first antenna radiator (e.g., the first antenna radiator (211a) of FIG. 6). The communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1) may be electrically connected to a second antenna radiator (e.g., the second antenna radiator (232a) of FIG. 6).

[0156] According to one embodiment, with respect to the width direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 3g), the first housing (210) may have a first width (w1), the second housing (220) may have a second width (w2), and the third housing (230) may have a third width (w3). The first width (w1) of the first housing (210) may be wider than the second width (w2) of the second housing (220). The third width (w3) of the third housing (230) may be wider than the second width (w2) of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the third width (w3) of the third housing (230) may be wider than the first width (w1) of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may each have different widths. In one embodiment, the first width (w1) of the first housing (210) may be substantially the same as the third width (w3) of the third housing (230).

[0157] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0158] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and is an exploded perspective view viewed from a different direction from FIG. 4.

[0159] The embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 5 may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3g or the embodiments of FIGS. 6a to 14.

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 3G) may include a foldable housing (201), a flexible display (203), a rear camera (205), at least one conductive connecting member (204), at least one battery (207), or at least one circuit board (206).

[0161] The configuration of the foldable housing (201), the flexible display (203), or the rear camera (205) of FIGS. 4 to 5 may be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the foldable housing (201), the flexible display (203), or the rear camera (205) of FIGS. 2a to 3g.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include various electronic components (or electrical components) arranged in the internal or external space of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). Various electronic components include, for example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120) of FIG. 1), a memory (e.g., a memory (130) of FIG. 1), an input module (e.g., an input module (150) of FIG. 1), an audio output module (e.g., an audio output module (155) of FIG. 1), a flexible display (203) (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1), an audio module (e.g., an audio module (170) of FIG. 1), a sensor (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1), an interface (e.g., an interface (177) of FIG. 1), a connection terminal (e.g., a connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1 or a connection terminal (289) of FIG. 2), a haptic module (e.g., a haptic module (179) of FIG. 1), a camera module (e.g., a camera module (180) of FIG. 1), a power management module (e.g., a power management module (188) of FIG. 1), at least one The electronic device (101) may include a battery (207) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1), a communication module (e.g., communication module (190) of FIG. 1), a subscriber identification module (e.g., subscriber identification module (196) of FIG. 1), or an antenna module (e.g., antenna module (197) of FIG. 1), and the electronic components may be appropriately separated and arranged in the internal or external space of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). In the electronic device (101), at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. In addition, some of these components may be integrated into one component.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) includes a first housing (210) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a second housing (220) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a third housing (230) (e.g., the third housing (230) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a first protective member (216) (e.g., the first protective member (216) of FIGS. 2A to 2B), a second protective member (226) (e.g., the second protective member (226) of FIGS. 2A to 2B), a third protective member (236) (e.g., the third protective member (236) of FIGS. 2A to 2B), a first rear cover (215) (e.g., the first rear cover (215) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), and a second rear cover. It may include a cover (225) (e.g., the second rear cover (225) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a third rear cover (235) (e.g., the third rear cover (235) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a first hinge structure (240) (e.g., the first hinge structure (240) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), or a second hinge structure (250) (e.g., the second hinge structure (250) of FIGS. 2A to 3G).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first plate (217). One surface of the first plate (217) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIG. 5) may support a flexible display (203) (e.g., the first display area (A1) in FIG. 2A). At least one battery (207), at least one circuit board (206), or electrical / electronic components may be arranged on the other surface of the first plate (217) (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction in FIG. 5). The first plate (217) may be defined and / or referred to as a first bracket or a first support member. The first plate (217) may be connected to side surfaces of the first housing (210).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second plate (227). One surface of the second plate (227) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIG. 5) may support the flexible display (203) (e.g., the second display area (A2) in FIG. 2A). At least one battery (207), at least one circuit board (206), or electrical / electronic components may be arranged on the other surface of the second plate (227) (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction in FIG. 5). The second plate (227) may be defined and / or referred to as a second bracket or a second support member. The second plate (227) may be connected to side surfaces of the second housing (220).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third plate (237). One surface of the third plate (237) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIG. 5) may support the flexible display (203) (e.g., the third display area (A3) in FIG. 2A). At least one battery (207), at least one circuit board (206), or electrical / electronic components may be arranged on the other surface of the third plate (237) (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction in FIG. 5). The third plate (237) may be defined and / or referred to as a third bracket or a third support member. The third plate (237) may be connected to side surfaces of the third housing (230).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one battery (207) to supply and store power required for operation to electronic components. The at least one battery (207) may be provided as a plurality of batteries each disposed in a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the first plate (217) and the second plate (227) can be folded or unfolded relative to each other by a first hinge structure (240) formed corresponding to the first folding area (A4) of the flexible display (203) (e.g., the first folding area (A4) of FIG. 2A). The second plate (227) and the third plate (237) can be folded or unfolded relative to each other by a second hinge structure (250) formed corresponding to the second folding area (A5) of the flexible display (203) (e.g., the second folding area (A5) of FIG. 2A).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) can be disposed in a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) (e.g., the first display area (A1) of FIG. 2A) can be disposed on the first housing (210) (or the first plate (217)), the second display area (A2) (e.g., the second display area (A2) of FIG. 2A) can be disposed on the second housing (220) (or the second plate (227)), and the third display area (A3) (e.g., the third display area (A3) of FIG. 2A) can be disposed on the third housing (230) (or the third plate (237)). According to one embodiment, the first folding area (A4) (e.g., the first folding area (A4) of FIG. 2A) connects the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) and may be disposed on the first hinge structure (240). The second folding area (A5) (e.g., the second folding area (A5) of FIG. 2A) connects the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3) and may be disposed on the second hinge structure (250).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one circuit board (206). The at least one circuit board (206) may include a printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), or a rigid-flexible PCB (RF-PCB). The at least one circuit board (206) may be provided as a plurality of circuit boards disposed in the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). The at least one circuit board (206) may be disposed between the plates (217, 227, 237) and the rear covers (215, 225, 235), but is not limited thereto.

[0171] According to one embodiment, signals of a processor for implementing various functions and operations of an electronic device (101) may be transmitted to electronic components through various conductive lines and / or connectors formed on at least one circuit board.

[0172] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may include a display panel. The flexible display (203) may be at least partially foldable or unfoldable. The flexible display (203) may be supported by a first plate (217), a second plate (227), and / or a third plate (237).

[0173] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one conductive connection member (204). The at least one conductive connection member (204) may be configured to electrically connect a plurality of circuit boards, or to electrically connect at least one circuit board (206) and electrical / electronic components. The at least one conductive connection member (204) may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) or a flexible flat cable (FFC). At least a portion of the at least one conductive connection member (204) may be disposed on the first hinge structure (240) or the second hinge structure (250). For example, the at least one conductive connection member (204) may be disposed to cross the first hinge structure (240) or the second hinge structure (250).

[0174] FIG. 6A is a conceptual diagram illustrating an antenna structure of a first housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0175] FIG. 6b is a conceptual diagram illustrating an antenna structure of a third housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0176] The embodiments of FIGS. 6A to 6B may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5, or the embodiments of FIGS. 7A to 14.

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 6A to 6B, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 5) may include a first housing (210), a third housing (230), a first hinge structure (240), a second hinge structure (250), a first antenna circuit (208), or a second antenna circuit (209).

[0178] The configuration of the first housing (210), the third housing (230), the first hinge structure (240), or the second hinge structure (250) of FIGS. 6a to 6b may be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the first housing (210), the third housing (230), the first hinge structure (240), or the second hinge structure (250) of FIGS. 2a to 5.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an antenna radiator formed from conductive portions of the first housing (210), or an antenna radiator formed from conductive portions of the third housing (230).

[0180] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first-first side (211) (e.g., the first-first side (211) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a first-second side (212) (e.g., the first-second side (212) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a first-third side (213) (e.g., the first-third side (213) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), or a first-fourth side (214) (e.g., the first-fourth side (214) of FIGS. 2A to 3G).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first antenna structure defined or formed by first conductive portions. The first antenna structure may include a first-first conductive portion (211a) (e.g., the first-first conductive portion (211a) of FIGS. 3A to 3G ), a first-second conductive portion (211b) (e.g., the first-second conductive portion (211b) of FIGS. 3A to 3G ), or a first-third conductive portion (211c) (e.g., the first-third conductive portion (211c) of FIGS. 3A to 3G ). For example, the first-first conductive portion (211a) may be defined and / or referred to as the first-first antenna, the first-second conductive portion (211b) may be defined and / or referred to as the first-second antenna, and the first-third conductive portion (211c) may be defined and / or referred to as the first-third antenna. The first-first conductive portion (211a) may not be electrically connected to the first-second conductive portion (211b) by the first-first non-conductive portion (211d) (e.g., the first-first non-conductive portion (211d) of FIGS. 3a to 3g), and may not be electrically connected to the first-third conductive portion (211c) by the first-second non-conductive portion (211e) (e.g., the first-second non-conductive portion (211e) of FIGS. 3a to 3g).

[0182] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, an antenna radiator defined by a 1-1 conductive portion (211a) will be described as an example, but the description thereof may be equally or similarly applied to an antenna radiator defined by a 1-2 conductive portion (211b), a 1-3 conductive portion (211c), conductive portions of a 1-3 side surface (213), or conductive portions of a 1-4 side surface (214). The 1-1 conductive portion (211a) may be referred to as a first antenna radiator (211a). The first antenna radiator (211a) may be defined by a conductive portion disposed between a first non-conductive portion (211d) and a second non-conductive portion (211e).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the first-first conductive portion (211a) may be defined and / or referred to as a first antenna radiator (211a). The first antenna radiator (211a) may be electrically connected to a first antenna circuit (208). The first antenna circuit (208) may be electrically connected to a communication module of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1).

[0184] According to one embodiment, the first antenna circuit (208) may include a first-first switch (2081) and a first-second switch (2082). The first-first non-conductive portion (211d) may be positioned between the first-first switch (2081) and the first-second switch (2082). The first-first switch (2081) may be connected to the first-second conductive portion (211b), and the first-second switch (2082) may be connected to the first-first conductive portion (211a).

[0185] According to one embodiment, depending on the operation of the first-first switch (2081), the first-second conductive portion (211b) may be electrically connected to the communication module or may not be electrically connected to the communication module. Depending on the operation of the first-second switch (2082), the first-first conductive portion (211a) may be electrically connected to the communication module or may not be electrically connected to the communication module.

[0186] According to one embodiment, the first antenna circuit (208) may include a first tuner (2083). The first tuner (2083) may be connected to the first-first conductive portion (211a). The first tuner (2083) may include at least one variable capacitor. The first tuner (2083) may be configured to adjust a resonant frequency of the first-first conductive portion (211a) (or the first antenna radiator (211a)) by changing a capacitance of one or more of the at least one variable capacitor based on a control signal provided from a processor (or a communication module).

[0187] The first antenna circuit (208) may include a first feeding portion (2084). The first feeding portion (2084) may be electrically connected to the first-first conductive portion (211a). The first feeding portion (2084) may provide a feeding signal to the first-first conductive portion (211a). The first-first conductive portion (211a) (e.g., the first antenna radiator (211a)) may operate as an antenna based on the feeding signal provided from the first feeding portion (2084).

[0188] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third-first side (231) (e.g., the third-first side (231) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a third-second side (232) (e.g., the third-second side (232) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), a third-third side (233) (e.g., the third-third side (233) of FIGS. 2A to 3G), or a third-fourth side (234) (e.g., the third-fourth side (234) of FIGS. 2A to 3G).

[0189] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third antenna structure defined or formed by third conductive portions. The third antenna structure may include a third-first conductive portion (232a) (e.g., the third-first conductive portion (232a) of FIGS. 3A to 3G ), a third-second conductive portion (232b) (e.g., the third-second conductive portion (232b) of FIGS. 3A to 3G ), or a third-third conductive portion (232c) (e.g., the third-third conductive portion (232c) of FIGS. 3A to 3G ). For example, the 3-1 conductive portion (232a) may be defined and / or referred to as the 3-1 antenna, the 3-2 conductive portion (232b) may be defined and / or referred to as the 3-2 antenna, and the 3-3 conductive portion (232c) may be defined and / or referred to as the 3-3 antenna. The 3-1 conductive portion (232a) may not be electrically connected to the 3-2 conductive portion (232b) by the 3-1 non-conductive portion (232d) (e.g., the 3-1 non-conductive portion (232d) of FIGS. 3a to 3g), and may not be electrically connected to the 3-3 conductive portion (232c) by the 3-2 non-conductive portion (232e) (e.g., the 3-2 non-conductive portion (232e) of FIGS. 3a to 3g).

[0190] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the antenna radiator defined as the 3-1 conductive portion (232a) will be described as an example, but the description thereof may be equally or similarly applied to or applied to an antenna radiator defined by the 3-2 conductive portion (232b), the 3-3 conductive portion (232c), the conductive portions of the 3-3 side (233), or the conductive portions of the 3-4 side (234). The 3-1 conductive portion (232a) may be referred to as the second antenna radiator (232a). The second antenna radiator (232a) may be defined by a conductive portion disposed between the 3rd non-conductive portion (232d) and the 4th non-conductive portion (232e).

[0191] According to one embodiment, the third-first conductive portion (232a) may be defined and / or referred to as a second antenna radiator (232a). The second antenna radiator (232a) may be electrically connected to a second antenna circuit (209). The second antenna circuit (209) may be electrically connected to a communication module of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the second antenna circuit (209) may include a second-first switch (2091) and a second-second switch (2092). The third-first non-conductive portion (232d) may be positioned between the second-first switch (2091) and the second-second switch (2092). The second-first switch (2091) may be connected to the third-second conductive portion (232b), and the second-second switch (2092) may be connected to the third-first conductive portion (232a).

[0193] According to one embodiment, depending on the operation of the 2-1 switch (2091), the 3-2 conductive portion (232b) may be electrically connected to the communication module or may not be electrically connected to the communication module. Depending on the operation of the 2-2 switch (2092), the 3-1 conductive portion (232a) may be electrically connected to the communication module or may not be electrically connected to the communication module.

[0194] According to one embodiment, the second antenna circuit (209) may include a second tuner (2093). The second tuner (2093) may be connected to the 3-1 conductive portion (232a). The second tuner (2093) may include at least one variable capacitor. The second tuner (2093) may be configured to adjust a resonant frequency of the 3-1 conductive portion (232a) (or the second antenna radiator (232a)) by varying a capacitance of one or more of the at least one variable capacitor based on a control signal provided from a processor (or a communication module).

[0195] The second antenna circuit (209) may include a second feeding portion (2094). The second feeding portion (2094) may be electrically connected to the third-first conductive portion (232a). The second feeding portion (2094) may provide a feeding signal to the third-first conductive portion (232a). The third-first conductive portion (232a) (e.g., the second antenna radiator (232a)) may operate as an antenna based on the feeding signal provided from the second feeding portion (2094).

[0196] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3D according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0197] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3d according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0198] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a first folding area and a third-second side surface according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0199] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3D according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0200] FIG. 9b is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3d according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0201] FIG. 9c is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 3d according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] The embodiments of FIGS. 7a to 9c may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6b, or the embodiments of FIGS. 7a to 14.

[0203] The embodiments of FIGS. 7A to 9C illustrate a state in which the electronic device (101) is completely folded (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G), or a state in which the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are completely folded (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3G).

[0204] Referring to FIGS. 7A to 9C, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 6B) may include a foldable housing (201), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), a second-second side (222), a third rear cover (235), a third protective member (236), a first hinge structure (240), a flexible display (203), a second display area (A2), a third display area (A3), or a first folding area (A4).

[0205] The configuration of the foldable housing (201), the second housing (220), the third housing (230), the second-second side (222), the third rear cover (235), the third protective member (236), the first hinge structure (240), the flexible display (203), the first display area (A1), the second display area (A2), the third display area (A3), or the first folding area (A4) of FIGS. 7a to 9c is the same as or partially the same as the configuration of the foldable housing (201), the second housing (220), the third housing (230), the second-second side (222), the third rear cover (235), the third protective member (236), the first hinge structure (240), the flexible display (203), the first display area (A1), the second display area (A2), the third display area (A3), or the first folding area (A4) of FIGS. 2a to 3g. All can be the same.

[0206] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state, or when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a completely folded state, the second display area (A2) can face the third display area (A3). The first folding area (A4) disposed on the first hinge structure (240) can form a curved surface having a designated or predetermined curvature. The first folding area (A4) disposed on the first hinge structure (240) can be at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0207] According to one embodiment, the 3-1 conductive portion (232a) of the 3-2 side (232) of the 3rd housing (230) (e.g., the 3-1 conductive portion (232a) of FIGS. 3A to 3G, or the 3-1 conductive portion (232a) of FIG. 6B) may be provided as a second antenna radiator (232a) (e.g., the second antenna radiator (232a) of FIG. 6B).

[0208] According to one embodiment, the second antenna radiator (232a) can be electrically connected to a communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1) and can operate as an antenna.

[0209] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state, or when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a completely folded state, the second antenna radiator (232a) may be spaced apart from the first folding area (A4). For example, a first gap (G1) may be formed between the second antenna radiator (232a) and the first folding area (A4). The first gap (G1) may be a minimum distance defined between the second antenna radiator (232a) and the first folding area (A4). The minimum distance may be defined and / or referred to as the first distance. The first gap (G1) may be a separation distance between the closest arranged portions of the second antenna radiator (232a) and the first folding area (A4). For example, the first gap (G1) may be a distance between the third-second side (232) and the first folding area (A4). For example, a portion of the second antenna radiator (232a) may be spaced apart from a portion of the first folding area (A4) by at least the first gap (G1). The first gap (G1) may be about 0.9 mm to about 1.1 mm. For example, the first gap (G1) may be about 1.0 mm or more. The first gap (G1) is not limited thereto and may have various values ​​depending on a design change of the electronic device (101), the foldable housing (201), or the flexible display (203).

[0210] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can reduce or limit the phenomenon in which radio waves transmitted and received from the second antenna radiator (232a) are lost by the first folding area (A4) by ensuring a sufficient first gap (G1) between the second antenna radiator (232a) and the first folding area (A4). For example, the electronic device (101) can reduce or limit noise generated from the first folding area (A4) from being induced into the second antenna radiator (232a) by ensuring a sufficient first gap (G1) between the second antenna radiator (232a) and the first folding area (A4).

[0211] Referring to FIG. 8, the first folding area (A4) and the third-second side surface (232) of the flexible display (203) are illustrated. Table 1 below shows a first gap (G1) between the third-second side surface (232) and the first folding area (A4) according to the radius of curvature of the first folding area (A4) when the outermost portion (A41) of the first folding area (A4) and the outermost portion (2321) of the third-second side surface (232) are positioned substantially on the same line (e.g., on an imaginary line parallel to the Z axis of FIG. 8). The radius of curvature may be defined as the radius of curvature of the curved surface when the first folding area (A4) forms a curved surface in a folded state of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230).

[0212] Radius of curvature (mm)First gap (G1) (mm)R11.00.58R21.50.73R32.00.91R42.31.02R52.51.10R63.51.5R74.51.9

[0213] Referring to FIG. 8 and Table 1, a first gap (G1) between the first folding area (A4) and the third-second side surface (232) may be defined according to the radius of curvature of the first folding area (A4). For example, as the radius of curvature of the first folding area (A4) increases, the first gap (G1) may increase. The values ​​of the radius of curvature and the first gap (G1) described in Table 1 are exemplary, and the radius of curvature of the first folding area (A4) and the first gap (G1) between the first folding area (A4) and the third-second side surface (232) may have various values. Referring to FIGS. 7A, 9A, 9B, and 9C, the third protective member (236) may cover at least a portion of the edge of the third display area (A3). The third protective member (236) may include a non-metallic material.

[0214] According to one embodiment, the third protective member (236) may include a first protective portion (2361) that covers at least a portion of a side surface (e.g., a side surface facing the +X direction in FIGS. 7A to 9C ) of the third display area (A3). The first protective portion (2361) may be positioned between the third-second side surface (232) and the third display area (A3).

[0215] Referring to FIG. 7A, the third protective member (236) may include a second protective portion (2362) that covers at least a portion of an upper surface (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIGS. 7A to 9C) of the third display area (A3). The second protective portion (2362) may extend from the first protective portion (2361).

[0216] Referring to FIG. 9A, the third protective member (236) may include a second protective portion (2362a) that covers at least a portion of an upper surface (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction of FIGS. 7A to 9C) of the third display area (A3). The second protective portion (2362a) may extend from the first protective portion (2361). At least a portion of the second protective portion (2362a) may face at least a portion of the second display area (A2).

[0217] Referring to FIG. 9b, the third protective member (236) may include a second protective portion (2362b) that covers at least a portion of the upper surface (e.g., the surface facing the +Z direction of FIGS. 7a to 9c) of the third display area (A3). The second protective portion (2362b) may extend from the first protective portion (2361). The third protective member (236) may further include a curved surface (2363) formed on the second protective portion (2362b). The curved surface (2363) may have a shape corresponding to a curved surface formed by the first folding area (A4).

[0218] Referring to FIG. 9c, the third protective member (236) may include a second protective portion (2362c) that covers at least a portion of the upper surface (e.g., the surface facing the +Z direction of FIGS. 7a to 9c) of the third display area (A3). The second protective portion (2362c) may extend from the first protective portion (2361). The third protective member (236) may further include a curved surface (2363a) formed on the second protective portion (2362c). The curved surface (2363a) may have a shape corresponding to a curved surface formed by the first folding area (A4). The third protective member (236) may further include a third protective portion (2364) that extends from the second protective portion (2362c). The third protective portion (2364) may cover at least a portion of the upper portion of the third-second side (232) (e.g., the end facing the +Z direction in FIG. 9c).

[0219] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0220] FIG. 11a is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0221] FIG. 11b is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0222] FIG. 11c is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 3e according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0223] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 11c may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9c, or the embodiments of FIGS. 12a to 14.

[0224] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 to 11c illustrate a state in which the electronic device (101) is completely folded (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3g), or a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are completely folded (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3g).

[0225] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 11C, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 9C) may include a foldable housing (201), a flexible display (203), a first display area (A1), a first housing (210), a first-first side (211), a first-first conductive portion (211a), a first rear cover (215), a first protective member (216), a second housing (220), a second-second side (222), a second rear cover (225), or a second hinge structure (250).

[0226] The configuration of the foldable housing (201), the flexible display (203), the first display area (A1), the first housing (210), the first-first side (211), the first-first conductive portion (211a), the first rear cover (215), the first protective member (216), the second housing (220), the second-second side (222), the second rear cover (225), or the second hinge structure (250) of FIGS. 10a to 11c is the same as the configuration of the foldable housing (201), the flexible display (203), the first display area (A1), the first housing (210), the first-first side (211), the first-first conductive portion (211a), the first rear cover (215), the first protective member (216), the second housing (220), the second-second side (222), the second rear cover (225), or of FIGS. 2a to 3g. The configuration of the second hinge structure (250) may be partially or entirely identical.

[0227] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a fully folded state, or when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a fully folded state, the first rear cover (215) can face the second rear cover (225), and the second hinge structure (250) can be at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0228] According to one embodiment, the first-first conductive portion (211a) of the first-first side (211) of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first-first conductive portion (211a) of FIGS. 3A to 3G, or the first-first conductive portion (211a) of FIG. 6A) may be provided as a first antenna radiator (211a) (e.g., the first antenna radiator (211a) of FIG. 6A).

[0229] According to one embodiment, the first antenna radiator (211a) can be electrically connected to a communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1) and can operate as an antenna.

[0230] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state, or when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a completely folded state, the first antenna radiator (211a) can be spaced apart from the second-second side (222).

[0231] For example, a second gap (G2) may be formed between the first antenna radiator (211a) and the second-second side surface (222). The second gap (G2) may be a minimum distance defined between the first antenna radiator (211a) and the second-second side surface (222). The minimum distance may be defined and / or referred to as the second distance. The second gap (G2) may be a separation distance between the closest arranged portions of the first antenna radiator (211a) and the second-second side surface (222). For example, the second gap (G2) may be a separation distance between the first-first side surface (211) and the second-second side surface (222). For example, a portion of the first antenna radiator (211a) may be spaced apart from a portion of the second-second side surface (222) by at least the second gap (G2). The second gap (G2) may be about 0.9 mm to about 1.1 mm. For example, the second gap (G2) may be about 1.0 mm or more. The second gap (G2) is not limited thereto and may have various values ​​depending on changes in the design of the electronic device (101) or the foldable housing (201).

[0232] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can reduce or limit the phenomenon in which radio waves transmitted and received from the first antenna radiator (211a) are lost by the second-second side (222) including a metal material by ensuring a sufficient second gap (G2) between the first antenna radiator (211a) and the second-second side (222).

[0233] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) or the second housing (220) may further include a waterproof member (227). The waterproof member (227) may be positioned between the second-second side (222) and the second hinge structure (250). The waterproof member (227) may be configured to seal a gap between the second hinge structure (250) and the second-second side (222) when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state, or when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a completely folded state.

[0234] Referring to FIG. 10, the electronic device (101) or the second housing (220) may further include a first spacer (228). The first spacer (228) may be disposed on the second-second side (222). The first spacer (228) may be formed of a non-metallic material or a rubber material. The first spacer (228) may limit or prevent the second-second side (222) and / or the second rear cover (225) from directly colliding with the first rear cover (215) when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state or when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a completely folded state. Since the first spacer (228) is formed of a non-metallic material or a rubber material, the first antenna radiator (211a) provided by the first-first side (211) may not have its antenna performance deteriorated. For example, since the antenna radiation signal is not induced in the first spacer (228), the performance of the first antenna radiator (211a) may not be deteriorated by the first spacer (228).

[0235] Referring to FIG. 11a, the second-second side (222) may include a metal region (2221) and a non-metal region (2222). The second gap (G2) may be a minimum distance defined between the metal region (2221) of the second-second side (222) and the first antenna radiator (211a).

[0236] Referring to FIG. 11b, the second-second side (222) may include a non-metallic region (2222a). The second gap (G2) may be a minimum distance defined between the second hinge structure (250) including a metallic material and the first antenna radiator (211a).

[0237] Referring to FIG. 11c, the second-second side (222) may include a non-metallic region (2222b). The second housing (220) may be formed entirely of a non-metallic material. The second gap (G2) may be a minimum distance defined between the second hinge structure (250) including a metallic material and the first antenna radiator (211a).

[0238] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0239] FIG. 12b is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC' of FIG. 3f according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0240] The embodiments of FIGS. 12a to 12b may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 11c, or the embodiments of FIGS. 13 to 14.

[0241] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12b illustrates a state in which the electronic device (101) is completely folded, or a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are completely folded.

[0242] Referring to FIGS. 12A to 12B , an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 11C ) may include a foldable housing (201), a flexible display (203), a first display area (A1), a first housing (210), a first-third side (213), a first-fourth conductive portion (213a), a first rear cover (215), a first protective member (216), a second housing (220), a second-third side (223), a second-first conductive portion (223a), a second rear cover (225), a third housing (230), a first hinge structure (240), a second hinge structure (250), or a rear camera (205).

[0243] The configuration of the foldable housing (201), the flexible display (203), the first display area (A1), the first housing (210), the first-third side (213), the first-fourth conductive portion (213a), the first rear cover (215), the first protective member (216), the second housing (220), the second-third side (223), the second-first conductive portion (223a), the second rear cover (225), the third housing (230), the first hinge structure (240), the second hinge structure (250), or the rear camera (205) of FIGS. 3A to 3G is the same as the configuration of the foldable housing (201), the flexible display (203), the first display area (A1), the first housing (210), the first-third side (213), the first-fourth conductive portion (213a), the first rear The configuration of the cover (215), the first protective member (216), the second housing (220), the second-third side (223), the second-first conductive portion (223a), the second rear cover (225), the third housing (230), the first hinge structure (240), the second hinge structure (250), or the rear camera (205) may be partially or entirely identical.

[0244] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state, or when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a completely folded state, the first rear cover (215) can face the second rear cover (225).

[0245] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101), or the first housing (210), may further include a second spacer (218). The second spacer (218) may be formed of a non-metallic material or a rubber material. The second spacer (218) may be disposed on the first housing (210). For example, the second spacer (218) may be disposed on side surfaces of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first-first side surface (211), the first-third side surface (213), and / or the first-fourth side surface (214) of FIGS. 2 to 3g). The second spacer (218) can limit or reduce direct contact between the side surfaces of the first housing (210) and the side surfaces of the second housing (220) (e.g., the 2-2 side surface (222), the 2-3 side surface (223), and / or the 2-4 side surface (224) of FIGS. 2 to 3g). Since the second spacer (218) is formed of a non-metallic material or a rubber material, the second spacer (218) can prevent the side surfaces of the first housing (210) and the side surfaces of the second housing (220) from being electrically connected. Accordingly, interference between the antenna (or antenna structure) provided by the side surfaces of the first housing (210) and the metal portion (or conductive portion) of the side surfaces of the second housing (220) can be limited or blocked by the spacer (218), and the performance of the antenna (or antenna structure) provided by the side surfaces of the first housing (210) can not be degraded. Interference between the antenna (or antenna structure) provided by the side surfaces of the second housing (220) and the metal portion (or conductive portion) of the side surfaces of the first housing (210) can be limited or blocked by the spacer (218), and the performance of the antenna (or antenna structure) provided by the side surfaces of the second housing (220) can not be degraded.According to the illustrated embodiment, the second spacer (218) is positioned between the first-third side (213) and the second-third side (223) to limit or reduce direct contact between the first-third side (213) and the second-third side (223).

[0246] FIG. 13 is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0247] FIG. 14 is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0248] The embodiments of FIGS. 13 to 14 may be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 12b.

[0249] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 14, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 12B) includes a foldable housing (201), a first housing (210), a first-first side (211), a first-second side (212), a first-third side (213), a second housing (220), a second-third side (223), a second-fourth side (224), a third housing (230), a third-second side (232), a third-third side (233), a third-fourth side (234), a first hinge structure (240), a second hinge structure (250), a flexible display (203), a first display area (A1), a second display area (A2), a third display area (A3), a first folding area (A4), or a second folding area. It may include area (A5).

[0250] The configuration of the foldable housing (201), the first housing (210), the 1-1 side (211), the 1-2 side (212), the 1-3 side (213), the second housing (220), the 2-3 side (223), the 2-4 side (224), the third housing (230), the 3-2 side (232), the 3-3 side (233), the 3-4 side (234), the first hinge structure (240), the second hinge structure (250), the flexible display (203), the first display area (A1), the second display area (A2), the third display area (A3), the first folding area (A4), or the second folding area (A5) of FIGS. 2A to 2B is the same as that of the first housing (210), the 1-1 side (211), the 1-2 side (212), the 1-3 The configuration of the side (213), the second housing (220), the second-third side (223), the second-fourth side (224), the third housing (230), the third-second side (232), the third-third side (233), the third-fourth side (234), the first hinge structure (240), the second hinge structure (250), the flexible display (203), the first display area (A1), the second display area (A2), the third display area (A3), the first folding area (A4), or the second folding area (A5) may be partially or entirely the same.

[0251] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a fully unfolded state, the first display area (A1), the second display area (A2), the third display area (A3), the first folding area (A4), and the second folding area (A5) can form a substantially flat surface and can form at least a portion of the front surface (201a) of the electronic device (101).

[0252] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a display driver integrated circuit (DDI) (260, 2601). The display driver circuit (260, 2601) may be electrically connected to at least a portion of the flexible display (203). The display driver circuit (260, 2601) may include a display driver chip capable of controlling a plurality of pixels included in the flexible display (203) to implement various colors.

[0253] Referring to FIG. 13, the display driving circuit (260) may be electrically connected to the first display area (A1). The display driving circuit (260) may be disposed adjacent to the 1-1 side (211). As the display driving circuit (260) is disposed adjacent to the 1-1 side (211), the display driving circuit (260) may be disposed at the furthest position with respect to the 3-2 side (232) within the electronic device (101). Accordingly, the second antenna radiator (232a) provided by the 3-2 side (232) (e.g., the second antenna radiator (232a) of FIG. 6b) may be limited or reduced from being degraded in antenna performance due to noise generated from the display driving circuit (260).

[0254] Referring to FIG. 14, the display driving circuit (2601) may be electrically connected to the third display area (A3). The display driving circuit (2601) may be disposed adjacent to the 3-2 side (232). As the display driving circuit (2601) is disposed adjacent to the 3-2 side (232), the display driving circuit (2601) may be disposed at the furthest position with respect to the 1-1 side (211) within the electronic device (101). Accordingly, the first antenna radiator (211a) provided by the 1-1 side (211) (e.g., the first antenna radiator (211a) of FIG. 6A) may be limited or reduced from being degraded in antenna performance due to noise generated from the display driving circuit (2601).

[0255] An electronic device may include a flexible display, some portions of which can be folded or unfolded. The electronic device including the flexible display may include a plurality of housings that are rotatably connected to each other. An antenna may be positioned on the side surfaces of the plurality of housings for transmitting and receiving signals to and from an external electronic device.

[0256] When the housings of an electronic device are folded relative to each other, an antenna placed in one housing may experience loss of antenna signal due to a metal part of an adjacently placed housing or a part of a flexible display.

[0257] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be provided that provides a structure in which an antenna radiator is spaced apart from a conductive portion of a flexible display or housing by a specified distance or more.

[0258] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a flexible display providing an antenna structure with improved antenna performance and an electronic device including the same can be provided.

[0259] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0260] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the antenna radiator operates as an antenna, signal loss can be limited or reduced by spacing the antenna radiator away from the flexible display or the metal part by a specified distance or more.

[0261] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0262] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may include a multi-foldable housing (201), a flexible display (203), at least one circuit board (206), or a communication module (190). The multi-foldable housing (201) may include a second housing (220), a first housing (210), an out-folding hinge (240), or an in-folding hinge (250). The first housing (210) may include a first side (211) or a first antenna radiator (211a). The first antenna radiator (211a) may be disposed on the first side (211). The first housing (210) may be rotatably connected to one side (221) of the second housing (220). The third housing (230) may include a second side surface (232) or a second antenna radiator (232a). The second antenna radiator (232a) may be disposed on the second side surface (232). The second antenna radiator (232a) may be rotatably connected to the other side surface (222) of the second housing (220). The out-folding hinge (240) may be disposed between the second housing (220) and the first housing (210). The in-folding hinge (250) may be disposed between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The flexible display (203) may be disposed on the front surface of each of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), or the third housing (230). The at least one circuit board (206) may be placed within the housing (201). The communication module (190) may be placed on the at least one circuit board (206). The communication module (190) may be electrically connected to the first antenna radiator (211a) or the second antenna radiator (232a).When the housing (201) is in a folded state, at least a portion (A4) of the flexible display (203) positioned on the out-folding hinge (240) can be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). When the housing (201) is in a folded state, at least a portion (A4) of the flexible display (203) positioned on the out-folding hinge (240) can be spaced apart from the second antenna radiator (232a).

[0263] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first display area (A1) of the flexible display (203) disposed on the first housing (210) may face in the opposite direction to the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) disposed on the second housing (220).

[0264] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) disposed on the second housing (220) can face the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) disposed on the third housing (230).

[0265] According to one embodiment, the first side (211) may include a first non-conductive portion (211d) or a second non-conductive portion (211e). The second non-conductive portion (211e) may be spaced apart from the first non-conductive portion (211d). The first antenna radiator (211a) may be defined by a conductive portion disposed between the first non-conductive portion (211d) and the second non-conductive portion (211e).

[0266] According to one embodiment, the second side (232) may include a third non-conductive portion (232d) or a fourth non-conductive portion (232e). The fourth non-conductive portion (232e) may be spaced apart from the third non-conductive portion (232d). The second antenna radiator (232a) may be defined by a conductive portion disposed between the third non-conductive portion (232d) and the fourth non-conductive portion (232e).

[0267] According to one embodiment, when the state of the housing (201) is the folded state, another part (A5) of the flexible display (203) positioned on the in-folding hinge (250) may be at least partially surrounded by the second housing (220), the third housing (230) and the in-folding hinge (250). When the state of the housing (201) is the folded state, another part (A5) of the flexible display (203) positioned on the in-folding hinge (250) may face the inside of the electronic device (101).

[0268] According to one embodiment, when the state of the housing (201) is the folded state, the first antenna radiator (211a) can be spaced apart from the other side (222) of the second housing (220).

[0269] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first spacer (228). The first spacer (228) may be disposed on the other side (222) of the second housing (220).

[0270] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second spacer (218). The second spacer (218) may be disposed on the first housing (210).

[0271] According to one embodiment, when the state of the housing (201) is the folded state, the first antenna radiator (211a) can be spaced apart from the in-folding hinge (250).

[0272] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a display drive circuit (260, 2601). The display drive circuit (260, 2601) may be electrically connected to the flexible display (203).

[0273] According to one embodiment, the display driving circuit (260, 2601) may be disposed adjacent to one of the first side (211) and the second side (232).

[0274] According to one embodiment, the other side (222) of the second housing (220) may include a non-metallic region (2222, 2222a, 2222b).

[0275] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may include the first display area (A1), the second display area (A2), the third display area (A3), the first folding area (A4), or the second folding area (A5). The first display area (A1) may be disposed on the first housing (210). The second display area (A2) may be disposed on the second housing (220). The third display area (A3) may be disposed on the third housing (230). The first folding area (A4) may connect the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2). The first folding area (A4) may be disposed on the out-folding hinge (240). The first folding area (A4) may be configured to be at least partially folded or unfolded. The second folding area (A5) can connect the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3). The second folding area (A5) can be positioned on the in-folding hinge (250). The second folding area (A5) can be configured to be at least partially folded or unfolded.

[0276] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a protective member (236). The protective member (236) may be disposed on the second side (232) to cover at least a portion of an edge of the third display area (A3). The protective member (236) may include a non-metallic material.

[0277] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), a first hinge structure (240), a second hinge structure (250), or a flexible display (203). The first housing (210) may include a first side (211), a second side (212), or a first conductive portion (211a). The second side (212) may face opposite to the first side (211). The first conductive portion (211a) may be disposed on the first side (211). The second housing (220) may include a third side (221) or a fourth side (222). The third side (221) may be connected to the second side (212). The fourth side (222) may face opposite to the third side (221). The third housing (230) may include a fifth side (231), a sixth side (232), or a second conductive portion (232a). The fifth side (231) may be connected to the fourth side (222). The sixth side (232) may face opposite to the fifth side (231). The second conductive portion (232a) may be disposed on the sixth side (232). The first hinge structure (240) may be connected to the second side (212) and the third side (221). The second hinge structure (250) may be connected to the fourth side (222) and the fifth side (231). The flexible display (203) may include a first display area (A1), a second display area (A2), a third display area (A3), a first folding area (A4), or a second folding area (A5). The first display area (A1) may be arranged on the first housing (210). The second display area (A2) may be arranged on the second housing (220).The third display area (A3) may be disposed on the third housing (230). The first folding area (A4) may connect the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2). The first folding area (A4) may be disposed on the first hinge structure (240). The first folding area (A4) may be configured to be at least partially folded or unfolded. The second folding area (A5) may connect the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3). The second folding area (A5) may be disposed on the second hinge structure (250). The second folding area (A5) may be configured to be at least partially folded or unfolded. When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, at least a portion of the first folding area (A4) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, at least a portion of the first folding area (A4) may be spaced apart from the second conductive portion (232a).

[0278] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first conductive portion (211a) may be spaced apart from the fourth side (222) or the second hinge structure (250).

[0279] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a display driving circuit (260, 2601). The display driving circuit (260, 2601) may be electrically connected to the flexible display (203).

[0280] According to one embodiment, the display driving circuit (260, 2601) may be disposed adjacent to one of the first side (211) or the sixth side (232).

[0281] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a spacer (218). The spacer (218) may be disposed on the first side (211).

[0282] Although the detailed description of this document has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this document.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), As a multi-foldable housing (201), Second housing (220); A first housing (210) including a first side (211) and a first antenna radiator (211a) arranged on the first side (211), and rotatably connected to one side (221) of the second housing (220); A third housing (230) including a second side (232) and a second antenna radiator (232a) disposed on the second side (232), and rotatably connected to the other side (222) of the second housing (220); An out-folding hinge (240) arranged between the second housing (220) and the first housing (210); and A multi-foldable housing (201) including an in-folding hinge (250) arranged between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230); A flexible display (203) arranged on the front surface of each of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230); At least one circuit board (206) arranged within the housing (201); and A communication module (190) disposed on at least one circuit board (206), comprising a communication module (190) electrically connected to the first antenna radiator (211a) and the second antenna radiator (232a), An electronic device in which at least a portion (A4) of the flexible display (203) positioned on the out-folding hinge (240) is visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) when the housing (201) is in a folded state and is spaced apart from the second antenna radiator (232a).

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first display area (A1) of the flexible display (203) arranged on the first housing (210) faces in the opposite direction to the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) arranged on the second housing (220).

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 2, An electronic device in which, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) disposed on the second housing (220) faces the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) disposed on the third housing (230).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The first side (211) includes a first non-conductive portion (211d) and a second non-conductive portion (211e) spaced apart from the first non-conductive portion (211d). An electronic device in which the first antenna radiator (211a) is defined by a conductive portion arranged between the first non-conductive portion (211d) and the second non-conductive portion (211e).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The second side (232) includes a third non-conductive portion (232d) and a fourth non-conductive portion (232e) spaced apart from the third non-conductive portion (232d). An electronic device in which the second antenna radiator (232a) is defined by a conductive portion positioned between the third non-conductive portion (232d) and the fourth non-conductive portion (232e).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, An electronic device in which another part (A5) of the flexible display (203) positioned on the in-folding hinge (250) is at least partially surrounded by the second housing (220), the third housing (230) and the in-folding hinge (250) when the state of the housing (201) is the folded state, and faces the interior of the electronic device (101).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, When the state of the above housing (201) is in the folded state, the first antenna radiator (211a) is an electronic device spaced apart from the other side (222) of the second housing (220).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, An electronic device further comprising a first spacer (228) disposed on the other side (222) of the second housing (220).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, An electronic device further comprising a second spacer (218) disposed on the first housing (210).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, When the state of the above housing (201) is in the folded state, the first antenna radiator (211a) is an electronic device spaced apart from the in-folding hinge (250).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, An electronic device further comprising a display driving circuit (260, 2601) electrically connected to the flexible display (203).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above display driving circuit (260, 2601) is an electronic device positioned adjacent to one of the first side (211) and the second side (232).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The other side (222) of the second housing (220) is an electronic device including a non-metallic region (2222, 2222a, 2222b).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above flexible display (203) is The first display area (A1) disposed on the first housing (210); The second display area (A2) disposed on the second housing (220); The third display area (A3) arranged on the third housing (230); A first folding area (A4) connecting the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2), the first folding area (A4) being arranged on the out-folding hinge (240) and configured to be at least partially folded or unfolded; and An electronic device including a second folding area (A5) connecting the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3), the second folding area (A5) being arranged on the in-folding hinge (250) and configured to be at least partially folded or unfolded.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, An electronic device further comprising a protective member (236) disposed on the second side (232) and covering at least a portion of an edge of the third display area (A3), the protective member (236) comprising a non-metallic material.

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