Electronic device including protective cover for protecting display

Abstract

A foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a first housing; a second housing rotatably connected to the first housing by a hinge module; a protective cover coupled to the housings along the edges of the housings and including a pair of through-holes and a fixing part provided between the pair of through-holes; and a buffer member including a pair of catching parts inserted into the pair of through-holes, respectively, and disposed to surround the fixing part, wherein the pair of catching parts include catching protrusions disposed to cross each other, respectively, so that at least portions thereof overlap each other.

Description

Electronic devices including protective covers for display protection

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an electronic device including a protective cover for display protection.

[0002] Technological advancements in electronics, information, and communication technologies are integrating various functions into a single portable communication device or electronic device. For example, smartphones incorporate communication functions (e.g., telephone functions) as well as music players, cameras, and electronic notebooks. Additional functions can be installed in the form of applications.

[0003] The widespread use and popularity of smartphones and other personal or portable communication devices has led to a growing demand for new features and improved usability. For example, touchscreen displays, while serving as output devices that display visual information on a screen, can also provide a virtual keypad that replaces mechanical input devices (e.g., button-type input devices). This allows portable communication devices or electronic devices to be miniaturized while still offering the same or improved usability (e.g., larger screens). Flexible displays, such as those that can be folded or rolled, are expected to become commercially available, further enhancing the functionality, portability, and usability of electronic devices.

[0004] An electronic device employing a foldable device may include a flexible display. At least a portion of the flexible display may be in contact with each other when the electronic device is folded.

[0005] When the flexible displays of an electronic device are in a folded state and come into contact with each other, the flexible displays may be damaged (e.g., scratched or cracked). To prevent this, the electronic device may include a protective cover positioned along the edge of the display and an elastic cushioning member positioned on the protective cover.

[0006] The buffer member can be generally fixed by being fitted to the protective cover using a hook-and-loop method. A buffer member using a hook-and-loop method may come off (e.g., move) from the protective cover due to a vertical external force (e.g., vertical force) or a horizontal external force (e.g., shear force) applied to the buffer member.

[0007] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may provide an electronic device including a buffer member including a pair of catches arranged in an alternating manner.

[0008] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first housing, a second housing rotatably connected to the first housing by a hinge module, a protective cover coupled along edges of the housings and including a pair of through holes and a fixing portion provided between the pair of through holes, and a buffer member including a pair of catch portions inserted into each of the pair of through holes and arranged to surround the fixing portions, wherein the pair of catch portions may include respective catch protrusions that are intersecting each other such that at least some of the catch portions overlap each other.

[0009] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the buffer member can be coupled to the protective cover with a pair of engaging portions arranged in an alternating manner to surround the engaging portions of the protective cover. Furthermore, when the buffer member and the protective cover are coupled, the engaging protrusions and engaging holes provided on each of the pair of engaging portions can be engaged with each other. Accordingly, the coupling strength of the shock-absorbing member coupled to the protective member for the display can be enhanced.

[0010] The effects that can be achieved by the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain, from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from the implementation of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a flat stage or unfolding state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2b is a plan view illustrating the front of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2c is a plan view illustrating the rear surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a folding state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3b is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating an intermediate state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a state of coupling of a protective cover and a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 is a front view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a process of combining a protective cover and a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0023] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a combined state of a buffer member, a protective cover, and a housing according to one embodiment.

[0024] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a process of fastening a hook and loop according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the fastening state of the catches according to one embodiment.

[0026] Fig. 12 is a plan view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0027] Fig. 13 is a partial perspective view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 14 is a partial plan view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 15 is a partial front view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figures 16a, 16b and 16c are drawings illustrating a flow path of a bonding member according to one embodiment.

[0031] Fig. 17 is a front view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0032] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0033] Fig. 19 is a perspective view showing a state of combination of a protective cover and a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0034] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0035] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals (or reference symbols) may be used for similar or related components.

[0036] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0037] 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" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0038] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0039] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “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.

[0040] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0041] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0042] The term "side" as used herein, for example, "first side", "later side" or "exposed side" may be used interchangeably with, refer to, include or mean "surface" (side surface, or surface of a side).

[0043] When we say that a component is “on” another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0044] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0045] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0046] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments.

[0047] 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)).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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).

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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).

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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).

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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).

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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 at least one selected 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).

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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)).

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an electronic device in a flat stage or unfolding state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B is a plan view illustrating a front side of the electronic device in a flat stage or unfolding state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2C is a plan view illustrating a rear side of the electronic device in a unfolding state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an electronic device in an intermediate state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 2A to 4, the electronic device (200) may include a pair of housings (210, 220) (e.g., foldable housings) that are rotatably coupled to face each other and foldable with respect to a hinge module (240). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (300) (e.g., display module (160) of FIG. 1) that is arranged in an area formed by the pair of housings (210, 220). According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged on both sides with respect to a folding axis (axis F) as the center, and may have a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (e.g., axis F). According to one embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the state of the electronic device (200) is a flat stage or unfolding state, a folding state, or an intermediate state.

[0072] A pair of housings (210, 220) may include a first housing (210) (e.g., a first housing structure) coupled with a hinge module (240) and a second housing (220) (e.g., a second housing structure) coupled with the hinge module (240). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include, in an unfolded state, a first surface (211) facing a first direction (e.g., a front direction) (z-axis direction) and a second surface (212) facing a second direction (e.g., a rear direction) (-z-axis direction) opposite to the first surface (211).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a third face (221) facing a first direction (z-axis direction) and a fourth face (222) facing a second direction (-z-axis direction) in an unfolded state. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be operated in such a manner that, in an unfolded state, the first face (211) of the first housing (210) and the third face (221) of the second housing (220) face substantially the same first direction (z-axis direction), and in a folded state, the first face (211) and the third face (221) face each other.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be operated such that, in an unfolded state, the second face (212) of the first housing (210) and the fourth face (222) of the second housing (220) face substantially in the same second direction (-z-axis direction), and in a folded state, the second face (212) and the fourth face (222) face in opposite directions. For example, in a folded state, the second face (212) may face in the first direction (z-axis direction), and the fourth face (222) may face in the second direction (-z-axis direction).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first side frame (213) that at least partially forms an exterior of the electronic device (200) and a first rear cover (214) that is coupled with the first side frame (213) and forms at least a portion of a second side (212) of the electronic device (200). According to one embodiment, the first side frame (213) may include a first side (213a), a second side (213b) that extends from one end of the first side (213a), and a third side (213c) that extends from the other end of the first side (213a). According to one embodiment, the first side frame (213) may be formed into a rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape through the first side (213a), the second side (213b), and the third side (213c).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second side frame (223) that at least partially forms an exterior of the electronic device (200) and a second rear cover (224) that is coupled to the second side frame (223) and forms at least a portion of a fourth side (222) of the electronic device (200). According to one embodiment, the second side frame (223) may include a fourth side (223a), a fifth side (223b) that extends from one end of the fourth side (223a), and a sixth side (223c) that extends from the other end of the fourth side (223b). According to one embodiment, the second side frame (223) may be formed into a rectangular shape through the fourth side (223a), the fifth side (223b), and the sixth side (223c).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the pair of housings (210, 220) are not limited to the illustrated shapes and combinations, and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in some embodiments, the first side frame (213) may be formed integrally with the first rear cover (214), and the second side frame (223) may be formed integrally with the second rear cover (224).

[0078] According to one embodiment, in the electronic device (200), in the unfolded state, the second side (213b) of the first side frame (213) and the fifth side (223b) of the second side frame (223) can be connected without a gap. According to one embodiment, in the electronic device (200), in the unfolded state, the third side (213c) of the first side frame (213) and the sixth side (223c) of the second side frame (223) can be connected without a gap. According to one embodiment, in the electronic device (200), in the unfolded state, the combined length of the second side (213b) and the fifth side (223b) can be longer than the length of the first side (213a) and / or the fourth side (223a). Additionally, the combined length of the third side (213c) and the sixth side (223c) may be configured to be longer than the length of the first side (213a) and / or the fourth side (223a).

[0079] In one embodiment, the first side frame (213) and / or the second side frame (223) may be formed of metal or may further include a polymer that is injected into the metal. In one embodiment, the first side frame (213) and / or the second side frame (223) may also include at least one conductive portion (216 and / or 226) that is electrically segmented through at least one segment (2161, 2162 and / or 2261, 2262) formed of polymer. In this case, the at least one conductive portion may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit included in the electronic device (200) and used as an antenna that operates in at least one designated band (e.g., a legacy band).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (214) and / or the second rear cover (224) may be formed by, for example, at least one or a combination of two of coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may be arranged to extend from a first surface (211) of the first housing (210) across the hinge module (240) to at least a portion of a third surface (221) of the second housing (220). For example, the flexible display (300) may include a first planar portion (230a) substantially corresponding to the first surface (211), a second planar portion (230b) corresponding to the third surface (221), and a bendable portion (230c) connecting the first planar portion (230a) and the second planar portion (230b) and corresponding to the hinge module (240).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first protective cover (215) (e.g., a first protective frame or a first decorative member) coupled along an edge of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second protective cover (225) (e.g., a second protective frame or a second decorative member) coupled along an edge of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first protective cover (215) and / or the second protective cover (225) may be formed of a metal or polymer material. According to one embodiment, the first protective cover (215) and / or the second protective cover (225) may be used as a decoration member.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a buffer member (400) (or damper) disposed at a corner portion (215a, 215b and / or 225a, 225b) of the first protective cover (215) and / or the second protective cover (225).

[0084] In one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may contact another protective cover (e.g., the first protective cover (215) or the second protective cover (225)) facing the electronic device (200) in a folded state, or a buffer member (400) disposed on the other protective cover (215 or 225). In this case, in the folded state of the electronic device (200), at least a portion of the first side (211) and the third side (221) of the display (300) may be prevented from contacting each other, thereby protecting the display (300).

[0085] In one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may be composed of a material that is elastic and wear-resistant. For example, the buffer member (400) may be composed of rubber, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0086] Hereinafter, the specific shape and / or structure of the buffer member (400) will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the first protective cover (215) may include a first damper receiving portion (217) provided at a corner portion (215a, 215b) of the first protective cover (215) and to which a buffer member (400) is coupled. In one embodiment, the first damper receiving portion (217) may include a first-first receiving portion (217a) formed at a left corner (215a) of the first protective cover (215) when the electronic device (200) is viewed from above (e.g., in the +z-axis direction) and a first-second receiving portion (217b) positioned at a right corner (215b) of the first protective cover (215).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the second protective cover (225) may include a second damper receiving portion (227) provided at a corner portion (225a, 225b) of the second protective cover (225) and to which a buffer member (400) is coupled. In one embodiment, the second damper receiving portion (227) may include a 2-1 receiving portion (227a) formed at a left corner (225a) of the second protective cover (225) when the electronic device (200) is viewed from above (e.g., in the +z-axis direction) and a 2-2 receiving portion (227b) positioned at a right corner (225b) of the second protective cover (225).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may be positioned such that the edge of the first flat portion (230a) is interposed (or located) between the first housing (210) and the first protective cover (215). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may be positioned such that the edge of the second flat portion (230b) is interposed between the second housing (220) and the second protective cover (225). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may be positioned such that the edge of the flexible display (300) corresponding to the protective cap is protected by the protective cap (235) disposed in an area corresponding to the hinge module (240). Therefore, the flexible display (300) may be substantially protected from the outside at the edge.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a hinge housing (241) (e.g., a hinge cover) that supports the hinge module (240) and is positioned so as to be exposed to the outside when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state and is introduced into the first space and the second space when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, thereby being invisible from the outside.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a sub-display (231) (e.g., a second display) that is arranged separately from the flexible display (300) (e.g., a first display). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (231) is arranged to be at least partially exposed on the second side (212) of the first housing (210), so that when in a folded state, it may display status information of the electronic device (200) that replaces the display function of the flexible display (300). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (231) may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover (214). In some embodiments, the sub-display (231) may be arranged on the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220). In this case, the sub-display (231) may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover (224).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of an input device (e.g., a microphone), an audio output device (201, 202), a sensor module (204), a camera device (e.g., a first camera device (205) and / or a second camera device (208)), a key input device (206), or a connector port (207). In the illustrated embodiment, the input device (e.g., a microphone), an audio output device (201, 202), a sensor module (204), a camera device (e.g., a first camera device (205) and / or a second camera device (208)), a key input device (206), or a connector port (207) refers to a hole or shape formed in the first housing (210) or the second housing (220), but may be defined to include an actual electronic component (e.g., an input device, an audio output device, a sensor module, or a camera device) disposed inside the electronic device (200) and operating through the hole or shape.

[0093] In one embodiment, the input device may include at least one microphone (203) disposed in the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the input device may include a plurality of microphones (203) disposed so as to detect the direction of sound. In some embodiments, the plurality of microphones (203) may be disposed at appropriate locations in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the audio output devices (201, 202) may include speakers. In one embodiment, the speakers may include a call receiver (201) disposed in the first housing (210) and a speaker (202) disposed in the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the input device, the audio output device (201, 202), and the connector port (207) are disposed in a space provided in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) of the electronic device (200), and can be exposed to the external environment through at least one hole formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the at least one connector port (207) can be used to transmit and receive power and / or data with an external electronic device. In some embodiments, the at least one connector port (e.g., an ear jack hole) can also accommodate a connector (e.g., an ear jack) for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device. In some embodiments, the hole formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) can be used in common for the input device and the audio output device (201, 202). In some embodiments, the audio output device (201, 202) may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without the holes formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (204) can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (204) can detect an external environment, for example, through a first surface (211) of the first housing (210). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may further include at least one sensor module arranged to detect an external environment through a second surface (212) of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (204) (e.g., an illuminance sensor) can be arranged under the flexible display (300) to detect an external environment through the flexible display (300). According to one embodiment, the sensor module (204) may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an illumination sensor, a proximity sensor, a biometric sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an illumination sensor.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the camera device (e.g., the first camera device (205) and / or the second camera device (208)) may include a first camera device (205) (e.g., a front camera device) disposed on a first side (211) of a first housing (210) and a second camera device (208) disposed on a second side (212) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (200) may further include a flash (209) disposed near the second camera device (208). According to one embodiment, the camera device (e.g., the first camera device (205) and / or the second camera device (208)) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (209) may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. According to one embodiment, the camera device (e.g., the first camera device (205), and / or the second camera device (208)) may be arranged such that two or more lenses (a wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide-angle lens, or a telephoto lens) and image sensors are positioned on one side (e.g., the first side (211), the second side (212), the third side (221), or the fourth side (222)) of the electronic device (200). In some embodiments, the camera device (e.g., the first camera device (205), and / or the second camera device (208)) may also include lenses and image sensors for time of flight (TOF).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the key input device (206) (e.g., a key button) may be disposed on a third side (213c) of the first side frame (213) of the first housing (210). In some embodiments, the key input device (206) may also be disposed on at least one of the other sides (213a, 213b) of the first housing (210) and / or the sides (223a, 223b, 223c) of the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the key input devices (206), and the key input devices (206) that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key, on the flexible display (300). In some embodiments, the key input device (206) may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in the flexible display (300).

[0097] According to one embodiment, some of the camera devices (e.g., the first camera device (205) and / or the second camera device (208)) or the sensor modules (204) may be arranged to be exposed through the flexible display (300). For example, the first camera device (205) or the sensor modules (204) may be arranged to be in contact with the external environment through an opening (e.g., a through hole) at least partially formed in the flexible display (300) in the internal space of the electronic device (200). According to one embodiment, some of the sensor modules (204) may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the flexible display (300) in the internal space of the electronic device (200). For example, in this case, an area of ​​the flexible display (300) facing the sensor modules may not require an opening.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 3B, the electronic device (200) may be operated to maintain an intermediate state through the hinge module (240). In this case, the electronic device (200) may control the flexible display (300) to display different contents on the display area corresponding to the first side (211) and the display area corresponding to the third side (221). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be operated in a substantially unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state of FIG. 2A) and / or a substantially folded state (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 3A) based on a certain inflection angle (e.g., the angle between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) when in the intermediate state) through the hinge module (240). For example, the electronic device (200) may be operated to transition to an unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state of FIG. 2a) when a force (e.g., pressure) is applied in the unfolding direction (direction B) through the hinge module (240) while the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state at a certain inflection angle. For example, the electronic device (200) may be operated to transition to a closed state (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 3a) when a force (e.g., pressure) is applied in the folding direction (direction C) while the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state at a certain inflection angle. In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be operated to maintain an unfolded state at various angles through the hinge module (240).

[0099] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (200) may include a first side frame (213), a second side frame (223), and a hinge module (240) that rotatably connects the first side frame (213) and the second side frame (223). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first support plate (2131) that extends at least partially from the first side frame (213), and a second support plate (2231) that extends at least partially from the second side frame (223). According to one embodiment, the first support plate (2131) may be formed integrally with the first side frame (213) or structurally coupled with the first side frame (213). Similarly, the second support plate (2231) may be formed integrally with the second side frame (223) or structurally coupled with the second side frame (223).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (300) arranged to be supported by a first support plate (2131) and a second support plate (2231). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first rear cover (214) coupled with a first side frame (213) and providing a first space between the first support plate (2131) and the second rear cover (224) coupled with a second side frame (223) and providing a second space between the second support plate (2231). In some embodiments, the first side frame (213) and the first rear cover (214) may be formed integrally. In some embodiments, the second side frame (223) and the second rear cover (224) may be formed integrally. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) (e.g., a first housing structure) provided through a first side frame (213), a first support plate (2131), and a first rear cover (214). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second housing (220) (e.g., a second housing structure) provided through a second side frame (223), a second support plate (2231), and a second rear cover (224). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a sub-display (231) arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover (214).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first substrate assembly (261) (e.g., a main printed circuit board), a camera assembly (263), a first battery (271), or a first bracket (251) disposed in a first space between a first side frame (213) and a first rear cover (214).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the camera assembly (263) may include a plurality of camera devices (e.g., the camera devices of FIGS. 2A and 3A (e.g., the first camera device (205), and / or the second camera device (208)) and may be electrically connected to the first substrate assembly (261).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (251) can provide a support structure and enhanced rigidity for supporting the first substrate assembly (261) and / or the camera assembly (263).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second substrate assembly (262) (e.g., a sub-printed circuit board), an antenna (290) (e.g., a coil member), a second battery (272), or a second bracket (252) disposed in a second space between the second side frame (223) and the second rear cover (224).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a wiring member (280) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)). The wiring member (280) according to one embodiment may be arranged to extend from the first substrate assembly (261) across the hinge module (240) to a plurality of electronic components (e.g., a second substrate assembly (262), a second battery (272), or an antenna (290)) disposed between the second side frame (223) and the second rear cover (224).

[0106] In one embodiment, the first substrate assembly (261), the second substrate assembly (262), and the wiring member (280) may be electrically connected to each other, operatively connected to each other, or formed integrally with each other. In one embodiment, since the first substrate assembly (261) and the second substrate assembly (262) are formed integrally and are capable of transmitting and receiving electrical signals or waves, the wiring member (280) may be omitted.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include one or more batteries (e.g., a first battery (271) and / or a second battery (272)). For example, the one or more batteries may include at least one of a first battery (271) disposed in an area corresponding to a first housing (210) and a second battery (272) disposed in an area corresponding to a second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include either one of the first battery (271) and / or the second battery (272), or may include both the first battery (271) and / or the second battery (272).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a flexible battery. The flexible battery may be arranged over at least a portion of each of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The flexible battery may be arranged to overlap a portion of an area corresponding to the first housing (210) and a portion of an area corresponding to the second housing (220). The flexible battery may include a battery hinge portion at a boundary where the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are separated from each other. The battery hinge portion may be formed to have a physically thin thickness. The battery hinge portion is provided at a position corresponding to a folding axis (e.g., axis F), so that the flexible battery may be folded as the electronic device (200) is folded.

[0109] In one embodiment, the battery hinge of the flexible battery may be a physical or electrical connector. The flexible battery may include a first battery section, a second battery section, and a connector that electrically or operatively connects the first battery section and the second battery section. The first battery section and the second battery section may be electrically or operatively connected to each other through the connector. The connector is a component constituting the flexible battery and may be provided on the outside or inside of the flexible battery. However, in one embodiment, the connector may be a non-conductive connector that physically connects the first battery section and the second battery section.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the antenna (290) may include a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna (290) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a hinge housing (241) (e.g., a hinge cover) that supports the hinge module (240) and is exposed to the outside when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 3A) and is positioned so as to be invisible from the outside by being introduced into the first space and / or the second space when the electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state of FIG. 2A).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first protective cover (215) coupled along an edge of a first side frame (213). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a second protective cover (225) coupled along an edge of a second side frame (223). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may have an edge of a first planar portion (e.g., the first planar portion (230a) of FIG. 2B) protected by the first protective cover (215). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (300) may have an edge of a second planar portion (e.g., the second planar portion (230b) of FIG. 2B) protected by the second protective cover (225).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a protective cap (235) positioned to protect an edge of a bendable portion (e.g., bendable portion (230c) of FIG. 2B) corresponding to a hinge module (240) of the flexible display (300).

[0114] Fig. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a protective cover and a buffer member are coupled according to one embodiment. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a buffer member according to one embodiment. Fig. 7 is a front view of a buffer member according to one embodiment. Fig. 8 is a drawing illustrating a process of coupling a protective cover and a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, a damper receiving portion (227) according to one embodiment (e.g., the second damper receiving portion (227) of FIG. 2b) may be formed by being recessed from one surface of the protective cover (225) (e.g., the surface facing the z-axis direction of FIG. 2b) to receive a buffer member (400).

[0116] In one embodiment, the damper receiving portion (227) may have a shape corresponding to the cushioning portion (410) of the buffer member (400).

[0117] In one embodiment, the damper receiving portion (227) may include at least one pair of through holes (2271, 2272) and a fixing portion (2273) provided between the pair of through holes (2271, 2272). In one embodiment, the pair of holes (2271, 2272) may include a first through hole (2271) disposed on one side with respect to the fixing portion (2273) and a second through hole (2272) disposed on the other side opposite to the one side with respect to the fixing portion (2273).

[0118] For convenience of explanation, the damper receiving portion is described based on the second damper receiving portion (227) illustrated in FIG. 5. However, since the first damper receiving portion (e.g., the first damper receiving portion (217) of FIG. 2b) and the second damper receiving portion (227) have substantially the same shape, structure, and / or function, the description of the second damper receiving portion (227) may be equally applied to the first damper receiving portion (217). For example, the first damper receiving portion (217) may include at least one pair of through holes (not illustrated) described below and a fixing portion provided between the pair of through holes.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may include a cushion portion (410) and at least one pair of catch portions (420, 430).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the cushion portion (410) may contact a protective cover (e.g., the first protective cover (215) or the second protective cover (225) of FIG. 2B) facing the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) in a folded state, or may contact a buffer member (400) disposed on the protective cover (215 or 225). In one embodiment, the cushion portion (410) may have a shape corresponding to the damper receiving portion (217, 227).

[0121] In one embodiment, the cushion portion (410) may include an exposed surface (410a) that is exposed to the outside when the damper receiving portion (217, 227) is seated, and a seating surface (410b) that faces the exposed surface (410a) and comes into contact with the damper receiving portion (217, 227). The exposed surface (410a) may be formed as a curved surface, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0122] In one embodiment, the cushion portion (410) may be provided to have a height greater than the depth of the damper receiving portion (217, 227) so that at least a portion thereof protrudes outward when the damper receiving portion (217, 227) is seated (see FIG. 9).

[0123] According to one embodiment, a pair of catches (420, 430) may be inserted into each hole (2271, 2272) of the damper receiving portion (217) corresponding to each catche (420, 430) when the buffer member (400) and the protective cover (225) are coupled, thereby surrounding the fixing portion (2273). For example, a pair of catches (420, 430) may be hooked (or connected) to the fixing portion (2273).

[0124] In one embodiment, the pair of catches (420, 430) may include a first catch (420) and a second catch (430) that are arranged in an alternating manner. In one embodiment, the first catch (420) may be inserted into the first through hole (2271) and then caught by the fixing portion (2273). In one embodiment, the second catch (430) may be inserted into the second through hole (2272) and then caught by the fixing portion (2273).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the first catch portion (420) may include a first pole (421) protruding from the seating surface (410b) of the cushion portion (410) and a first catch projection (422) extending from the first pole (421) toward the second catch portion (430).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the first pole (421) may be configured to elastically deform (e.g., change shape or form) when inserted into the first through hole (2271) of the first catch (420).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the first catch protrusion (422) may include a first catch surface (4221) and a first guide surface (4222) inclined with respect to the first catch surface (4221). The first catch surface (4221) may refer to one surface of the first catch protrusion (422) that contacts or faces the fixing portion (2273) when the buffer member (400) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled.

[0128] In one embodiment, the first guide surface (4222) can guide elastic deformation of the first pole (421) by allowing the first catch projection (422) to slide while contacting the fixing portion (2273) on the first guide surface (4222) when inserted into the first through hole (2271) of the first catch portion (420).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the first engaging portion (420) may include a fastening protrusion (423) protruding from one side (4223) of the first engaging protrusion (422) facing the second engaging protrusion (432) described later. In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (423) may have a cylindrical shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (423) is integrally formed with the first engaging protrusion (422) and may be made of the same material as the first engaging protrusion (422). For example, the fastening protrusion (423) may be made of an elastic material. In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (423) may be fitted into the fastening hole (433) of the second engaging portion (430) described later when the protective cover (215, 225) and the buffer member (400) are coupled.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the second catch portion (430) may include a second pole (431) protruding from the seating surface (410b) of the cushion portion (410) and a second catch projection (432) extending from the second pole (431) toward the first catch portion (420).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the second pole (431) may be configured to be elastically deformed (e.g., change in shape or form) when inserted into the second through hole (2272) of the second catch (430). In one embodiment, the second pole (431) may be spaced apart from the first pole (421) by a predetermined distance. In this case, a space (S) may be formed between the first pole (421) and the second pole (431) in which the fixing portion (2273) is accommodated when the buffer member (400) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first catch protrusion (422) and the second catch protrusion (432) may be arranged in an alternating manner. For example, the first catch protrusion (422) and the second catch protrusion (432) may be arranged sequentially along the width direction of the buffer member (400). For example, the first catch protrusion (422) and the second catch protrusion (432) may at least partially face each other and overlap each other. In this case, the sum of the widths of the first catch protrusion (422) and the second catch protrusion (432) may be substantially equal to the width of the buffer member (400) (specifically, the cushion portion (410)).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the second catch protrusion (432) may include a second catch surface (4321) and a second guide surface (4322) inclined with respect to the second catch surface (4321). The second catch surface (4321) may mean (or refer to) one surface of the second catch protrusion (432) that contacts or faces the fixing portion (2273) when the buffer member (400) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled.

[0134] In one embodiment, the second guide surface (4322) can guide elastic deformation of the second pole (431) by allowing the second catch projection (432) to slide while contacting the fixing portion (2273) on the second guide surface (4322) when inserted into the second through hole (2272) of the second catch portion (430).

[0135] In this disclosure, a guide surface (4222, 4322) provided in the form of a slope is described as an example, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the guide surface (4222, 4322) may be configured as a curved surface.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the second catch (430) may penetrate the second catch protrusion (432) and include a catch hole (433) into which the catch protrusion (423) of the first catch (420) is inserted. In one embodiment, the catch hole (433) may have a shape corresponding to the catch protrusion (423).

[0137] Figure 8 (a) is a drawing for explaining the process of attaching a buffer member (400) to a protective cover (225) (specifically, a damper receiving portion (227)), and Figure 8 (b) is a drawing showing a state in which a buffer member (400) is attached to a protective cover (225).

[0138] Referring to FIG. 8, when each of the catches (420, 430) of the buffer member (400) is inserted into the corresponding hole (2271, 2272) of the damper receiving portion (227), the catch projections (422, 432) of the catches (420, 430) come into contact with the fixing portion (2273) provided between a pair of holes (2271, 2272) on the guide surface (4222, 4322). In this state, if the insertion of the catch (420, 430) continues, the catch projections (422, 432) of the catch (420, 430) slide on the guide surface (4222, 4322), and each of the poles (421, 431) of the catch (420, 430) is elastically deformed (e.g., the shape or form changes) in a direction away from the fixed part (2273) (see (a) of FIG. 8).

[0139] When the insertion of the hooks (420, 430) is completed, the deformed (e.g., shape-deformed) poles (421, 431) are restored by elastic force. At this time, each of the hooking projections (422, 432) of the hooking projections (422, 430), specifically, the hooking surfaces (4221, 4321) of the hooking projections (422, 432) face or come into contact with the fixing portion (2273), and the hooking portions (420, 430) are hooked to the fixing portion (2273) in a form that surrounds the fixing portion (2273).

[0140] After this, the connection between the buffer member (400) and the protective cover (215, 225) is completed by fitting the fastening protrusion (423) provided on each of the hook protrusions (422, 432) into the fastening hole (433).

[0141] In this way, the buffer member (400) can improve the bonding strength to the protective cover (215, 225) by being connected to the fixed part (2273) in a manner in which a pair of hooking parts (420, 430) are arranged in an alternating manner to surround the fixed part (2273) and at the same time, the fastening projection (423) and the fastening hole (433) are fitted and connected.

[0142] For example, when an external force is applied to the buffer member (400), as a pair of catch portions (420, 430) of the buffer member (400) are caught and connected to the fixing portion (2273), a frictional force corresponding to the external force is generated across the entire area where the catch portions (420, 430) and the fixing portion (2273) come into contact with each other and the area where the fastening protrusion (423) and the fastening hole (433) come into contact with each other as the fastening protrusion (423) and the fastening hole (433) are fitted together, so that the bonding force of the buffer member (400) to the protective cover (215, 225) can be improved.

[0143] Accordingly, the buffer member (400) can be prevented from being detached from the protective cover (215, 225) by an external force (or vertical force) applied in a direction parallel to the through hole (2271, 2272) (or in the vertical direction of the buffer member (400)) or an external force (or shear force) applied in the longitudinal direction (or horizontal direction) of the buffer member (400).

[0144] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a combined state of a buffer member, a protective cover, and a housing according to one embodiment.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 9, a housing according to one embodiment (e.g., the first housing (210) or the second housing (220) of FIG. 2) may include a support member (228) that supports the coupled state of the buffer member (400).

[0146] According to one embodiment, the support member (228) may be provided at a corner portion of the bottom surface of the rear cover (e.g., the first rear cover (214) or the second rear cover (224) of FIG. 2). The corner portion may refer to an area facing a corner portion of the protective cover (215, 225) (e.g., corner portions (215a, 215b and / or 225a, 225b of FIG. 2b)) when the protective cover (e.g., the first protective cover (215) or the second protective cover (225) of FIG. 2) and the rear cover (214, 224) are coupled.

[0147] In one embodiment, the support member (228) may protrude from the bottom surface of the rear cover (214, 224). For example, the support member (228) may protrude so as to contact or face the buffer member (400) when the protective cover (215, 225) and the rear cover (214, 224) are coupled.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the support member (228) may include a recessed portion (2281) that contacts or faces a pair of catch portions (420, 430) of the buffer member (400), and a pair of support protrusions (2282, 2283) that protrude from each of the two sides of the recessed portion (2281).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the recessed portion (2281) of the support portion (228) and the pair of support protrusions (2282, 2283) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the catch portions (420, 430) of the buffer member (400) when the protective cover (215, 225) and the rear cover (214, 224) are coupled. For example, the catch portions (420, 430) of the buffer member (400) may be seated in the recessed portion (2281) and positioned between the pair of support protrusions (2282, 2283) when the protective cover (215, 225) and the rear cover (214, 224) are coupled.

[0150] In this case, when an external force (e.g., shear force) is applied in the longitudinal direction (or horizontal direction) of the buffer member (400), the pair of support protrusions (2282, 2283) function as horizontal stoppers for the catches (420, 430) of the buffer member (400), thereby preventing the buffer member (400) from being detached from the protective cover (215, 225). For example, when a shear force is applied to the buffer member (400), the catches (420, 430) of the buffer member (400), specifically, the poles (421, 431), come into contact with the pair of support protrusions (2282, 2283), and horizontal movement of the catches (420, 430) can be prevented.

[0151] In addition, when an external force (e.g., vertical force) acting in the height direction (or vertical direction) of the buffer member (400) is applied, the recessed portion (2281) functions as a vertical stopper for the catch portions (420, 430) of the buffer member (400), thereby preventing the buffer member (400) from being detached from the protective cover (215, 225). For example, when a vertical force is applied to the buffer member (400), the catch portions (420, 430) of the buffer member (400) come into contact with the fixing portion (2273) and / or the recessed portion (2281), thereby preventing vertical movement of the catch portions (420, 430).

[0152] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a process of fastening a hook and loop according to one embodiment.

[0153] The buffer member (500) according to one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10 may have a separate fastening structure rather than an integral fastening structure, unlike the buffer member (400) illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 10, a buffer member (500) according to one embodiment may include a cushion portion (410), a pair of catch portions (420a, 430), and a fastening pole (440).

[0155] According to one embodiment, a pair of catches (420a, 430) may include a first catche (420a) provided with a fastening hole (424) and a second catche (430) provided with a fastening hole (433). For convenience of explanation below, the fastening hole (424) provided in the first catche (420a) is referred to as a first fastening hole (424), and the fastening hole (433) provided in the second catche (430) is referred to as a second fastening hole (433).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the first fastening hole (424) may pass through the first fastening projection (422a) of the first catch portion (420a) and may be formed at a position facing the second fastening hole (433). In one embodiment, the first fastening hole (424) and the second fastening hole (433) may be connected to each other.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the fastening pole (440) can be sequentially fitted into the second fastening hole (433) and the first fastening hole (424). In one embodiment, the fastening pole (440) can have a cylindrical shape. In one embodiment, the fastening pole (440) can be composed of a different material from the engaging portions (420a, 430). For example, the fastening pole (440) can be composed of a metal material having high rigidity. In this case, the buffer member (500) can have improved torsional resistance compared to the case where the fastening protrusion (423) illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7 is composed of an elastic material.

[0158] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the fastening state of the catches according to one embodiment. Fig. 12 is a plan view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a buffer member (600) according to one embodiment may include a cushion portion (410), a first catch portion (420b), and a second catch portion (430).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the first catch (420b) may include a catch protrusion (423a) that is fitted into the catch hole (433) of the second catch (430). In one embodiment, the catch protrusion (423a) may be formed to protrude from one side (e.g., one side (4223) of FIG. 5) of the first catch protrusion (422b) facing the second catch protrusion (432).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (423a) may include a body portion (4231) and a detachment prevention portion (4232) provided at a free end of the body portion (4231). In one embodiment, the body portion (4231) may have a cylindrical shape. In one embodiment, the detachment prevention portion (4232) may have a tapered shape in which the diameter gradually increases from the free end of the fastening protrusion (423a) to the fixed end. For example, the diameter of the detachment prevention portion (4232) gradually increases toward the body portion (4231), and the maximum diameter may be provided to be larger than the diameter of the fastening hole (433).

[0162] In this case, when the fastening projection (423a) and the engaging portion (420b, 430) are coupled through the fastening hole (433), the detachment prevention portion (4232) of the fastening projection (423a) is elastically deformed and passes through the fastening hole (433) and is exposed to the outside of the fastening hole (433), and then the restored detachment prevention portion (4232) comes into contact with the outer surface of the second fastening projection (432), thereby preventing the fastening projection (423a) from being detached from the fastening hole (433). As a result, the coupling strength between the fastening portions (420b, 430) can be improved.

[0163] Fig. 13 is a partial perspective view of a buffer member according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 is a partial plan view of a buffer member according to one embodiment. Fig. 15 is a partial front view of a buffer member according to one embodiment. Figs. 16a, 16b, and 16c are drawings illustrating a flow path of a bonding member according to one embodiment.

[0164] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2 to 4) may include a bonding member (e.g., a bonding member (B) of FIG. 16) applied to a gap between a protective cover (e.g., a first protective cover (215) or a second protective cover (225) of FIG. 2) and a buffer member (700) to improve bonding strength between the protective cover and the buffer member (700).

[0165] Hereinafter, the bonding path structure in which the bonding member (B) flows will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 16.

[0166] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 16, a buffer member (700) according to one embodiment may include a cushion portion (410), a first catch portion (420c), and a second catch portion (430a).

[0167] In one embodiment, the first catch portion (420c) may include a first bonding hole (425) that is recessed from one surface of the first catch protrusion (422c) that includes the first guide surface (4222). In one embodiment, the first bonding hole (425) may be recessed and connected to a fastening protrusion (423b) described below.

[0168] In one embodiment, the first bonding hole (425) may be provided at a position adjacent to the fastening hole (433) of the second catch (430a). For example, the first bonding hole (425) may be positioned on one side (4223) of the first catch protrusion (422c) facing the second catch protrusion (432a).

[0169] In one embodiment, the first bonding hole (425) may have an open structure facing the second catch protrusion (432a). For example, the first bonding hole (425) may have a semicircular shape as illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the first engaging portion (420c) may include a fastening protrusion (423b) protruding from one side surface (4223) of the first engaging projection (422c). In one embodiment, the fastening projection (423b) may be formed to protrude from the inner surface of the first bonding hole (425). In one embodiment, the fastening projection (423b) may have a size smaller than the size of the fastening hole (433). In this case, the fastening projection (423b) does not occupy all of the inner space of the fastening hole (433) when inserted into the fastening hole (433). For example, the fastening projection (423b) may have an overall semi-cylindrical shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the second catch (430a) may include a second bonding hole (434) recessed from one surface of the second catch protrusion (432a) including the second guide surface (4322).

[0172] In one embodiment, the second bonding hole (434) can be recessed into and connected to the fastening hole (433).

[0173] In one embodiment, the second bonding hole (434) may be positioned so that at least a portion of it faces the first bonding hole (425). For example, the second bonding hole (434) may be positioned on one side of the second catch protrusion (432a) facing the first catch protrusion (422c).

[0174] In one embodiment, the second bonding hole (434) may have an open structure facing the first catch protrusion (422c). For example, the second bonding hole (434) may have a semicircular shape as illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the first bonding hole (425) and the second bonding hole (434) may form an injection space (is) between which a bonding injection device (im) described later is inserted, as illustrated in FIG. 14, and the injection space (is) may have an overall circular shape.

[0176] In this case, the bonding member (B) can be injected into the bonding hole (425, 434), for example, the injection space (is), through a needle-shaped bonding injection device (im), and flow along the bonding hole (425, 434) into the interior of the fastening hole (433) and the gap between the first catch (420c), the second catch (430a), and the protective cover (215, 225). Accordingly, the bonding member (B) can be applied and / or filled into the fastening hole (433) through the bonding hole (425, 434), thereby improving the bonding force between the fastening hole (433) and the fastening protrusion (423b). In addition, the bonding member (B) may be applied and / or filled into the gap between the first catch portion (420c), the second catch portion (430a) and the protective cover (215, 225) through the bonding hole (425, 434), thereby improving the bonding strength between the catch portions (420c, 430a) and the protective cover (215, 225).

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 16a to 16c, a worker can insert a bonding injection device (im) into a circular injection space (is) formed between a bonding hole (425) of a first catch (420c) and a bonding hole (434) of a second catch (430a), and the worker can inject a bonding member (B) into the injection space (is) using the bonding injection device (im) (see FIGS. 16a and 16b). In this case, the bonding member (B) injected into the injection space (is) can be introduced into the fastening hole (433) of the second fastening member (430a) through the bonding holes (425, 434) of the fastening members (420c, 430a), and as the bonding member (B) is filled and hardened in the gap between the fastening protrusion (423b) inserted into the fastening hole (433) and the fastening hole (433), the bonding force between the fastening protrusion (423b) and the fastening hole (433) can be improved (see Fig. 16c). In addition, the bonding member (B) injected into the injection space (is) can be introduced into the gap between the first fastening member (420c) and the second fastening member (430a). As the bonding member (B) is filled in the gap between the first engaging portion (420c) and the second engaging portion (430a) and is cured by coming into contact with the protective cover (215, 225), the bonding force between the engaging portions (420c, 430a) and the bonding force between the buffer member (700) and the protective cover (215, 225) can be improved (or strengthened).

[0178] Fig. 17 is a front view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 17, a damper receiving portion (229) according to one embodiment (e.g., the first damper receiving portion (217) or the second damper receiving portion (227) of FIG. 2b) may include a first through hole (2291), a second through hole (2292), a third through hole (2293), a first fixing portion (2294), and a second fixing portion (2295).

[0180] In one embodiment, the first through hole (2291) may be provided between the second through hole (2292) and the third through hole (2293). In one embodiment, the first through hole (2291) may have a larger diameter than the second through hole (2292) and the third through hole (2293).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the first fixing member (2294) may be positioned between the second through hole (2292) and the first through hole (2291). According to one embodiment, the second fixing member (2295) may be positioned between the first through hole (2291) and the third through hole (2293).

[0182] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (800) (e.g., the buffer member (200) of FIG. 2B) may include a cushion portion (810), a first catch portion (820), a second catch portion (830), and a third catch portion (840).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the cushioning portion (810) may contact a protective cover (e.g., the first protective cover (215) or the second protective cover (225) of FIG. 2B) facing the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) in a folded state, or may contact a buffering member (800) disposed on the protective cover (215 or 225). The cushioning portion (810) may be substantially the same in shape, structure, and / or form as the cushioning portion (410) illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7, and the description of the cushioning portion (410) described above with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7 may be equally applicable.

[0184] In one embodiment, the first catch (820) and the second catch (830) may be arranged in an alternating manner. In one embodiment, the first catch (820) and the third catch (840) may be arranged in an alternating manner.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the catches (820, 830, 840) may be inserted into respective holes (2291, 2292, 2293) of the damper receiving portion (229) corresponding to each catche (820, 830, 840) when the buffer member (800) and the protective cover (225) are coupled, thereby surrounding the first fixing portion (2294) and the second fixing portion (2295). For example, the catches (820, 830, 840) may be arranged to be hooked to the catches (2294, 2295).

[0186] According to one embodiment, the first hooking portion (820) may include a first pole (821) protruding from a seating surface (810b) of a cushion portion (810), a first-first hooking projection (822) extending from the first pole (821) toward a second hooking portion (830), and a first-second hooking projection (823) extending from the first pole (821) toward a third hooking portion (840).

[0187] According to one embodiment, the first pole (821) may be configured to elastically deform (e.g., change shape or form) when inserted into the first through hole (2291) of the first catch (820).

[0188] According to one embodiment, the first-first hooking projection (822) may include a hooking surface (8221) and a guide surface (8222) inclined with respect to the hooking surface (8221). The hooking surface (8221) may mean (or refer to) one surface of the first-first hooking projection (822) that contacts or faces the first fixing portion (2294) when the buffer member (800) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled. The guide surface (8222) may guide elastic deformation of the first-first hooking projection (822) and / or the first pole (821) by allowing the first-first hooking projection (822) to slide on the guide surface (8222) while contacting the first fixing portion (2294) when the first through hole (2291) of the first hooking portion (820) is inserted.

[0189] According to one embodiment, the first-second hooking protrusion (823) may be symmetrical in shape and / or structure with respect to the first pole (821) and the first-first hooking protrusion (822).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the first-second hooking projection (823) may include a hooking surface (8231) and a guide surface (8232) inclined with respect to the hooking surface (8231). The hooking surface (8231) may mean (or refer to) one surface of the first-second hooking projection (823) that contacts or faces the second fixing portion (2295) when the buffer member (800) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled. The guide surface (8232) may guide elastic deformation of the first-second hooking projection (823) and / or the first pole (821) by allowing the first-second hooking projection (823) to slide on the guide surface (8232) while contacting the second fixing portion (2295) when the first through hole (2291) of the first hooking portion (820) is inserted.

[0191] According to one embodiment, the first engaging portion (820) may include a first engaging hole (824) that penetrates the first-first engaging protrusion (822) and into which a engaging protrusion (833) of a second engaging portion (830) described later is inserted, and a second engaging hole (825) that penetrates the first-second engaging protrusion (823) and into which a engaging protrusion (843) of a third engaging portion (840) described later is inserted. In one embodiment, the first engaging hole (824) may have a shape corresponding to the engaging protrusion (833) of the second engaging portion (830). In one embodiment, the second engaging hole (825) may have a shape corresponding to the engaging protrusion (843) of the third engaging portion (840).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the second catch portion (830) may include a second pole (831) protruding from the seating surface (810b) of the cushion portion (810) and a second catch projection (832) extending from the second pole (831) toward the first catch portion (820).

[0193] In one embodiment, the second pole (831) may be configured to be elastically deformed when inserted into the second through hole (2292) of the second catch (830). In one embodiment, the second pole (831) may be spaced apart from the first pole (821) on one side by a predetermined distance.

[0194] According to one embodiment, the second catch protrusion (832) and the first-first catch protrusion (822) may be arranged in an alternating manner. For example, the second catch protrusion (832) and the first-first catch protrusion (822) may be arranged sequentially along the width direction of the buffer member (800). For example, the second catch protrusion (832) and the first-first catch protrusion (822) may be overlapped with at least a portion facing each other.

[0195] According to one embodiment, the second catch protrusion (832) may include a catch surface (8321) and a guide surface (8322) inclined with respect to the catch surface (8321). The catch surface (8321) may mean (or refer to) one surface of the second catch protrusion (832) that contacts or faces the first fixing portion (2294) when the buffer member (800) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled. The guide surface (8322) may guide elastic deformation (e.g., change in shape or form) of the second pole (831) by allowing the second catch protrusion (832) to slide while contacting the first fixing portion (2294) on the guide surface (8322) when the second through hole (2292) of the second catch portion (830) is inserted.

[0196] According to one embodiment, the second engaging portion (830) may include a fastening protrusion (833) protruding from one side of the second engaging protrusion (832) facing the first-first engaging protrusion (822). In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (833) may have a cylindrical shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (833) is integrally formed with the second engaging protrusion (832) and may be made of the same material as the second engaging protrusion (832). For example, the fastening protrusion (833) may be made of an elastic material. In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (833) may be fitted into the first fastening hole (824) of the first engaging portion (820) when the protective cover (215, 225) and the buffer member (800) are coupled.

[0197] According to one embodiment, the third catch (840) may include a third pole (841) protruding from the seating surface (810b) of the cushion portion (810) and a third catch projection (842) extending from the third pole (841) toward the first catch (820).

[0198] In one embodiment, the third pole (841) may be configured to be elastically deformed when inserted into the third through hole (2293) of the third catch (840). In one embodiment, the third pole (841) may be spaced apart from the first pole (821) on one side by a predetermined distance.

[0199] According to one embodiment, the third catch protrusion (842) and the first-second catch protrusion (823) may be arranged in an alternating manner. For example, the third catch protrusion (842) and the first-second catch protrusion (823) may be arranged sequentially along the width direction of the buffer member (800). For example, the third catch protrusion (842) and the first-second catch protrusion (823) may be overlapped with at least a portion facing each other.

[0200] According to one embodiment, the third catch protrusion (842) may include a catch surface (8421) and a guide surface (8422) inclined with respect to the catch surface (8421). The catch surface (8421) may mean (or refer to) one surface of the third catch protrusion (842) that contacts or faces the second fixing portion (2295) when the buffer member (800) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled. The guide surface (8422) may guide elastic deformation of the third pole (841) by allowing the third catch protrusion (842) to slide on the guide surface (8422) while contacting the second fixing portion (2295) when inserted into the third through hole (2293) of the third catch portion (840).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the third engaging portion (840) may include a fastening protrusion (843) protruding from one side of the third engaging protrusion (842) facing the first-second engaging protrusions (823). In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (843) may have a cylindrical shape, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (843) is integrally formed with the third engaging protrusion (842) and may be made of the same material as the third engaging protrusion (842). For example, the fastening protrusion (843) may be made of an elastic material. In one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (843) may be fitted into the second fastening hole (825) of the first engaging portion (820) when the protective cover (215, 225) and the buffer member (800) are coupled.

[0202] In this case, the plurality of fixed parts (2294, 2295) are each surrounded by the catch parts (810, 820, 830), and the fastening protrusions (833, 843) are fitted into the fastening holes (824, 825), thereby improving the bonding force between the buffer member (800) and the protective cover (215, 225).

[0203] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0204] Fig. 19 is a perspective view showing a state of combination of a protective cover and a buffer member according to one embodiment.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a buffer member (900) according to one embodiment may include a cushion portion (910), a first catch portion (920), and a second catch portion (930).

[0206] According to one embodiment, the cushioning member (910) may contact the facing protective cover (215 or 225) in the folded state of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) when the cushioning member (900) is coupled to the protective cover (e.g., the first protective cover (215) or the second protective cover (225) of FIG. 2b) or may contact another facing cushioning member (400) coupled to the protective cover (215 or 225). In one embodiment, the cushioning member (910) may be fitted into a damper receiving portion (e.g., the first damper receiving portion (217) or the second damper receiving portion (227) of FIG. 2b) of the protective cover (215, 225) and fixedly disposed on the protective cover (215, 225). For example, the cushion portion (910) may have a shape corresponding to the damper receiving portion (217, 227).

[0207] In one embodiment, the cushion portion (910) may include an exposed surface (910a) that is exposed to the outside when the damper receiving portion (217, 227) is seated, and a seating surface (910b) that faces the exposed surface (910a) and comes into contact with the damper receiving portion (217, 227). The exposed surface (910a) may be formed as a curved surface, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0208] According to one embodiment, the first catch portion (920) and the second catch portion (930) may be spaced apart from each other on the seating surface (910b) of the cushion portion (910).

[0209] According to one embodiment, the first hooking portion (920) may include a first pole (921) protruding from the seating surface (910b) of the cushion portion (910), a first hooking projection (922) extending away from the first pole (921) in a direction away from the second hooking portion (930), and a first fastening hole (923) penetrating through the first hooking projection (922).

[0210] According to one embodiment, the first pole (921) may be configured to be elastically deformed when inserted into the first through hole (2271) of the damper receiving portion (227) of the first catch portion (920).

[0211] According to one embodiment, the first catch protrusion (922) may be configured to be elastically deformed when inserted into the first through hole (2271) of the damper receiving portion (227) of the first catch portion (920). According to one embodiment, the first catch protrusion (922) may include a first catch surface (9221) and a first guide surface (9222) inclined with respect to the first catch surface (9221). The first catch surface (9221) may refer to one surface of the first catch protrusion (922) that contacts or faces the inner surface of the protective cover (215, 225) when the buffer member (900) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled.

[0212] According to one embodiment, the first fastening hole (923) may extend through the first catch protrusion (922) in a direction parallel to the width direction of the buffer member (900). In one embodiment, a fastening protrusion (2275) of a fastening rib (2274a) described below may be fitted into the first fastening hole (923).

[0213] According to one embodiment, the second hooking portion (930) may include a second pole (931) protruding from the seating surface (910b) of the cushion portion (910), a second hooking projection (932) extending from the second pole (931) in a direction away from the first hooking portion (920), and a second fastening hole (933) penetrating through the second hooking projection (932).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the second pole (931) may be configured to elastically deform (e.g., change shape or form) when inserted into the second through hole (2272) of the damper receiving portion (227) of the second catch portion (930).

[0215] According to one embodiment, the second catch protrusion (932) may be configured to be elastically deformed when inserted into the second through hole (2272) of the damper receiving portion (227) of the second catch portion (930).

[0216] According to one embodiment, the second catch protrusion (932) may include a second catch surface (9321) and a second guide surface (9322) inclined with respect to the second catch surface (9321). The first catch surface (9321) may refer to a surface of the second catch protrusion (932) that contacts or faces the inner surface of the protective cover (215, 225) when the buffer member (900) and the protective cover (215, 225) are coupled.

[0217] According to one embodiment, the second fastening hole (933) may extend through the second catch protrusion (932) in a direction parallel to the width direction of the buffer member (900). In one embodiment, a fastening protrusion (not shown) of a second fastening rib (2274b) described later may be fitted into the second fastening hole (933).

[0218] According to one embodiment, the first catch protrusion (922) of the first catch portion (920) may be positioned forward based on the width direction of the buffer member (400). According to one embodiment, the second catch protrusion (932) of the second catch portion (930) may be positioned rearward based on the width direction of the buffer member (900). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the catch protrusions (922, 932) may be positioned at different positions in the front / rear, respectively, based on the width direction of the buffer member (900).

[0219] According to one embodiment, the first catch (920) and the second catch (930) can be inserted into respective holes (2271, 2272) of the damper receiving portion (227) corresponding to each catch (920, 930) when the buffer member (900) and the protective cover (225) are combined, and can be hooked onto the inner surface of the damper receiving portion (227) (or the inner surface of the protective cover (225)).

[0220] Referring to FIG. 19, a damper receiving portion (227) according to one embodiment may include a first fastening rib (2274a) and a second fastening rib (2274b) that protrude from an inner surface of the damper receiving portion (227) and are spaced apart from each other. In one embodiment, the first fastening rib (2274a) and the second fastening rib (2274b) may be spaced apart from each other with the through holes (2271, 2272) and the fixing portion (2273) of the damper receiving portion (2277) interposed therebetween.

[0221] According to one embodiment, each of the first fastening rib (2274a) and the second fastening rib (2274b) may include a fastening projection (2275) that is inserted into each of the fastening holes (923, 933) of the catch portions (920, 930) when the buffer member (900) and the damper receiving portion (227) are coupled.

[0222] In one embodiment, the fastening projection (2275) of the first fastening rib (2274a) protrudes from the first fastening rib (2274a) to one side and may have a cylindrical shape. In one embodiment, the fastening projection (not shown) of the second fastening rib (2274b) protrudes from the second fastening rib (2274b) to the other side opposite to the one side and may have a cylindrical shape.

[0223] According to one embodiment, the first catch portion (920) and the second catch portion (930) can be fitted with the catch projections (2275) of the catch ribs (2274a, 2274b) facing the respective catch portions (920, 930) through the fastening holes (923, 933) when the buffer member (900) and the protective cover (225) are coupled. In this case, the coupling force between the buffer member (900) and the protective cover (215, 225) can be improved.

[0224] A foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first housing (210); a second housing (220) rotatably connected to the first housing (210) by a hinge module (240); a protective cover (215, 225) coupled along edges of the housings (210, 220) and including a pair of through holes (2271, 2272) and a fixing member (2273) provided between the pair of through holes (2271, 2272); And it may include a buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) including a pair of catch portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) inserted into each of the pair of through holes (2271, 2272) and arranged to surround the fixing portion (2273). The pair of catch portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) may include respective catch projections (422, 422a, 422b, 422c, 432, 432a) that are arranged to intersect each other so that at least some of them overlap each other.

[0225] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) may be placed at a corner portion (215a, 215b, 225a, 225b) of the protective cover (215, 225).

[0226] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) may include a cushion portion (410) exposed to the outside of the protective cover (215, 225); a first pole (421) protruding from one side (410b) of the cushion portion (410) facing the protective cover (215, 225); and a second pole (431) protruding from the one side (410b) of the cushion portion (410) and spaced apart from the first pole (421).

[0227] According to one embodiment, the catches (422, 422a, 422b, 422c, 432, 432a) may include a first catche (422, 422a, 422b, 422c) extending from the first pole (421) in a first direction perpendicular to the first pole (421); and a second catche (432, 432a) extending from the second pole (431) in a second direction perpendicular to the second pole (431) and opposite to the first direction.

[0228] According to one embodiment, the first catch protrusions (422, 422a, 422b, 422c) and the second catch protrusions (432, 432a) may be sequentially arranged along a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0229] According to one embodiment, each of the pair of catches (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) may include a catch surface (4221, 4321) that contacts the fixing portion (2273); and a guide surface (4222, 4322) that is connected to the catch surface (4221, 4321) but is inclined with respect to the catch surface (4221, 4321).

[0230] According to one embodiment, one of the pair of engaging portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) may include a fastening protrusion (423, 423a) protruding from one surface facing the other engaging portion (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a). The other of the pair of engaging portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) may include a fastening hole (433) into which the fastening protrusion (423, 423a) is inserted.

[0231] According to one embodiment, the fastening projection (423a) may include a tapered detachment prevention portion (4322) provided at the free end of the fastening projection (423a) and having a diameter that gradually increases from the free end to the fixed end.

[0232] According to one embodiment, each of the pair of catches (420a, 430) may include mutually communicating fastening holes (424, 433). The buffer member (500) may include a fastening pole (440) that is inserted through the fastening holes (424, 433).

[0233] According to one embodiment, at least one of the pair of catches (420c, 430a) may be formed by being recessed from a guide surface (4222, 4322) located on the opposite side of the catch surface (4221, 4321) that contacts the fixing portion (2273), and may include a bonding hole (425, 434) that is in communication with the fastening hole (433).

[0234] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (700) may include a bonding member that is injected into the bonding hole (425, 434) through a needle-shaped injection device and applied and filled along the bonding hole (425, 434) and the fastening hole (433).

[0235] According to one embodiment, the fastening protrusion (423b) may have a size smaller than the diameter of the fastening hole (433).

[0236] According to one embodiment, each of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may include a support portion (228) that protrudes from a bottom surface facing the protective cover (215, 225) and on which the buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) is secured when the protective cover (215, 225) and the housing (210, 220) are coupled.

[0237] According to one embodiment, the support portion (228) may include a recess portion (2281) and a pair of support protrusions (2282, 2283) protruding from each of the two sides of the recess portion (2281).

[0238] According to one embodiment, the protective cover (215, 225) may include a first protective cover (215) disposed along an edge of the first housing (210); and a second protective cover (225) disposed along an edge of the second housing (220). The buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) may be disposed on at least one of the first protective cover (215,) and the second protective cover (225), and may come into contact with the buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) disposed on the other protective cover (215, 225) or the other protective cover (215, 225) in a folded state of the electronic device (200).

[0239] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing; a protective cover (215, 225) coupled along an edge of the housing and including a pair of through holes (2271, 2272) and a fixing portion (2273) provided between the pair of through holes (2271, 2272); and a buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) including a pair of catch portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) inserted into each of the pair of through holes (2271, 2272) and arranged to surround the fixing portion (2273). The pair of catch portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) may be arranged to be staggered from each other.

[0240] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) may include a cushion portion (410) exposed to the outside of the protective cover (215, 225); a first pole (421) protruding from one side (410b) of the cushion portion (410) facing the protective cover (215, 225); and a second pole (431) protruding from the one side (410b) of the cushion portion (410) and spaced apart from the first pole (421).

[0241] According to one embodiment, the pair of catches (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) may include a first catch protrusion (422, 422a, 422b, 422c) extending from the first pole (421) in a first direction perpendicular to the first pole (421); and a second catch protrusion (432, 432a) extending from the second pole (431) in a second direction perpendicular to the second pole (431) and opposite to the first direction.

[0242] According to one embodiment, one of the pair of engaging portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) may include a fastening protrusion (423, 423a) protruding from one surface facing the other engaging portion (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a). The other of the pair of engaging portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) may include a fastening hole (433) into which the fastening protrusion (423, 423a) is inserted.

[0243] An electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing; a protective cover (229) coupled along an edge of the housing and including first to third through holes (2291, 2292, 2293) spaced apart from each other and first and second fixing portions (2294, 2295) provided between the through holes (2291, 2292, 2293); and a buffer member (800) including first to third hooking portions (820, 830, 840) inserted into each of the through holes (2291, 2292, 2293) and arranged to surround the first and second fixing portions (2294, 2295). The first and second hooking portions (820, 830) may be arranged to be staggered so as to be hooked to the first fixing portion (2294). The first and third catches (820, 840) can be arranged in an alternating manner so as to catch the second fixing part (2295).

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device, First housing (210); A second housing (220) rotatably connected to the first housing (210) by a hinge module (240); A protective cover (215, 225) coupled along the edge of the housings (210, 220) and including a pair of through holes (2271, 2272) and a fixing member (2273) provided between the pair of through holes (2271, 2272); and A buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) is included, which is inserted into each of the above pair of through holes (2271, 2272) and includes a pair of catches (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) arranged to surround the fixing member (2273). An electronic device, wherein the above pair of engaging portions (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) include engaging projections (422, 422a, 422b, 422c, 432, 432a) that are arranged so as to intersect each other so that at least some of them overlap each other.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which the above-mentioned buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) is placed at a corner portion (215a, 215b, 225a, 225b) of the above-mentioned protective cover (215, 225).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) is A cushion part (410) exposed to the outside of the above protective cover (215, 225); A first pole (421) protruding from one side (410b) of the cushion part (410) facing the protective cover (215, 225); and An electronic device including a second pole (431) that is formed to protrude from the one side (410b) of the cushion portion (410) and is spaced apart from the first pole (421).

4. In paragraph 3, The above-mentioned studs (422, 422a, 422b, 422c, 432, 432a) are A first hook projection (422, 422a, 422b, 422c) extending in a first direction perpendicular to the first pole (421) from the first pole (421); and An electronic device comprising a second catch projection (432, 432a) extending from the second pole (431) in a second direction that is perpendicular to the second pole (431) and opposite to the first direction.

5. In paragraph 4, An electronic device in which the first engaging projections (422, 422a, 422b, 422c) and the second engaging projections (432, 432a) are sequentially arranged along a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, Each of the above pair of catches (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) A catch surface (4221, 4321) in contact with the above fixed part (2273); and An electronic device, which is connected to the above-mentioned engaging surface (4221, 4321), and includes a guide surface (4222, 4322) that is inclined with respect to the engaging surface (4221, 4321).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, One of the above pair of catches (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) includes a fastening projection (423, 423a) protruding from one side facing the other catche (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a), An electronic device, wherein the other one of the pair of engaging parts (420, 420a, 420b, 420c, 430, 430a) includes a fastening hole (433) into which the fastening projection (423, 423a) is inserted.

8. In paragraph 7, An electronic device in which the above-mentioned fastening projection (423a) includes a tapered detachment prevention portion (4322) provided at a free end of the above-mentioned fastening projection (423a) and having a diameter that gradually increases from the free end to the fixed end.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, Each of the above pair of catches (420a, 430) includes connecting holes (424, 433) that are connected to each other, An electronic device in which the above-mentioned buffer member (500) includes a fastening pole (440) that is inserted through the fastening holes (424, 433).

10. In any one of paragraphs 7 to 9, An electronic device, wherein at least one of the pair of engaging parts (420c, 430a) is formed by being recessed from a guide surface (4222, 4322) located on the opposite side of the engaging surface (4221, 4321) that comes into contact with the fixing part (2273), and includes a bonding hole (425, 434) that is communicated with the fastening hole (433).

11. In paragraph 10, An electronic device in which the above-mentioned buffer member (700) is injected into the bonding hole (425, 434) through a needle-shaped injection device and includes a bonding member applied and filled along the bonding hole (425, 434) and the fastening hole (433).

12. In paragraph 7, An electronic device in which the above-mentioned fastening projection (423b) has a size smaller than the diameter of the above-mentioned fastening hole (433).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, An electronic device, wherein each of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) includes a support portion (228) that protrudes from a bottom surface facing the protective cover (215, 225) and on which the buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) is secured when the protective cover (215, 225) and the housing (210, 220) are combined.

14. In paragraph 13, An electronic device in which the above support portion (228) includes a recess portion (2281) and a pair of support protrusions (2282, 2283) protruding from each of the two sides of the recess portion (2281).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The above protective cover (215, 225) is A first protective cover (215) arranged along the edge of the first housing (210); and Including a second protective cover (225) arranged along the edge of the second housing (220), An electronic device, wherein the above-described buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) is disposed on at least one of the first protective cover (215,) and the second protective cover (225), and comes into contact with the buffer member (400, 500, 600, 700) disposed on the other protective cover (215, 225) or the other protective cover (215, 225) in the folded state of the electronic device (200).

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