Foldable electronic device including hinge assembly

Abstract

Disclosed is a foldable electronic device. The foldable electronic device may comprise: a first housing; a second housing; and a hinge assembly coupling the first housing and the second housing. The hinge assembly may include: a first rotating body including a first gear and connected to the first housing; a second rotating body including a second gear and connected to the second housing; a first rack gear that engages the first gear; a second rack gear that engages the second gear; an elastic member disposed between the first rack gear and the second rack gear; and a guide that guides the movements of the first rack gear and the second rack gear according to the rotations of the first gear and the second gear. Various other embodiments are possible.

Description

A foldable electronic device comprising a hinge assembly

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a foldable electronic device including a hinge assembly.

[0002] The foldable electronic device may have a folded state or an open state. While the foldable electronic device is changing between the folded and open states, each of the housings of the foldable electronic device may be interlocked with each other and rotate about the folding axis.

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

[0004] A foldable electronic device is disclosed. The foldable electronic device may include a first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly may rotatably couple the first housing and the second housing. The hinge assembly may include a first rotating body. The first rotating body may include a first gear that rotates around a first axis and may be connected to the first housing. The hinge assembly may include a second rotating body. The second rotating body may include a second gear that rotates around a second axis parallel to the first axis. The second rotating body may be connected to the second housing. The hinge assembly may include a first rack gear. The first rack gear may mesh with the first gear. The hinge assembly may include a second rack gear. The second rack gear may be meshed with the second gear. The hinge assembly may include an elastic member. The elastic member may be arranged between the first rack gear and the second rack gear and configured to press the first rack gear and the second rack gear in a direction toward the first gear and the second gear, respectively. The hinge assembly may include a guide. The guide may guide movement of the first rack gear and the second rack gear according to rotation of the first gear and the second gear.

[0005] A foldable electronic device is disclosed. The foldable electronic device may include a first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly may rotatably couple the first housing and the second housing. The hinge assembly may include a first rotating body. The first rotating body includes a first gear that rotates around a first axis and may be connected to the first housing. The hinge assembly may include a second rotating body. The second rotating body includes a second gear that rotates around a second axis parallel to the first axis and may be connected to the second housing. The hinge assembly may include a first rack gear. The first rack gear may mesh with the first gear. The hinge assembly may include a second rack gear. The second rack gear may mesh with the second gear. The hinge assembly may include an elastic member. The elastic member may be arranged between the first rack gear and the second rack gear and configured to maintain an angle between the first housing and the second housing by bringing the first gear and the first rack gear into close contact and bringing the second gear and the second rack gear into close contact. In accordance with the rotation of the first gear and the second gear, the first rack gear and the second rack gear may be configured to move linearly.

[0006] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 1C is an exploded view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the housings and hinge assembly of an exemplary foldable electronic device.

[0010] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary foldable electronic device in an unfolded state.

[0011] FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary foldable electronic device in a folded state.

[0012] Figure 4 is a plan view showing an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0013] Figure 5 is an exploded view of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0014] Figure 6 is a drawing showing the coupling relationship between the rotating bodies and rack gears of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0015] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the rotors and rack gears of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0016] Figure 8 is a drawing illustrating a guide structure of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0017] FIGS. 9A and 9B are drawings illustrating an exemplary hinge assembly including a dumbbell-shaped guide structure.

[0018] Figure 10a is a drawing showing an unfolded state of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0019] Figure 10b is a drawing showing a closed state of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0020] Fig. 11 shows the structure of a stopper for limiting movement of an exemplary hinge assembly in a closed state.

[0021] Figure 12 is a plan view of an exemplary hinge assembly including a plate assembled to rack gears.

[0022] FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state by a hinge assembly including a plate assembled to rack gears.

[0023] FIG. 13b is a cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in a closed state by a hinge assembly including a plate assembled to rack gears.

[0024] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of an unfolded state of an exemplary electronic device, FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a folded state of the exemplary electronic device, and FIG. 1C is an exploded view of the exemplary electronic device. FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the housings and hinge assembly of the exemplary foldable electronic device.

[0026] Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, an electronic device (101) may include a first housing (110), a second housing (120), and a flexible display (130). The electronic device (101) may be a device in which the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) can come into contact with each other. The electronic device (101) may be referred to as a foldable electronic device.

[0027] In one embodiment, the first housing (110) may include a first surface (111), a second surface (112) spaced from the first surface (111), and a first side surface (113) enclosing at least a portion of the first surface (111) and the second surface (112). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include at least one camera (134) exposed through a portion of the second surface (112).

[0028] In one embodiment, the second housing (120) may include a third side (121), a fourth side (122) facing and spaced from the third side (121), and a second side (123) surrounding at least a portion of the third side (121) and the fourth side (122). The electronic device (101) may further include a display panel (135) disposed on the second support member (180). At least a portion of the fourth side (122) of the second housing (120) may be formed by the display panel (135). The electronic device (101) may further include a camera (116). The camera (126) may be disposed inside the second housing (120) to face the fourth side (122) so as to acquire an external image through the fourth side (122). The camera (126) may be an under display camera (UDC) that is positioned below the display panel (135), is covered by the display panel (135), and is configured to acquire an external image through light passing through the display panel (135). In one embodiment, the camera (126) is positioned below the display panel (135), and the display panel (135) may include an opening aligned with the camera (126) lens to transmit light from the outside to the camera (126).

[0029] According to one embodiment, each of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may include a first protective member (114) and a second protective member (124), respectively. The first protective member (114) and the second protective member (124) may be disposed on the first side (111) and the third side (121) along the periphery of the flexible display (130). The first protective member (114) and the second protective member (124) may prevent or reduce the ingress of foreign substances (e.g., dust or moisture) through the gap between the flexible display (130) and the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). The first protective member (114) may be arranged along the edge of the first display area (131), and the second protective member (124) may be arranged along the edge of the second display area (132). The first protective member (114) may be formed by being attached to the first side (113) of the first housing (110), or may be formed integrally with the first side (113). The second protective member (124) may be formed by being attached to the second side (123) of the second housing (120), or may be formed integrally with the second side (123).

[0030] In one embodiment, the first housing (110) may provide a space formed by the first face (111), the second face (112), and the second side (123) as a space for arranging components of the electronic device (101). The second housing (120) may provide a space formed by the third face (121), the fourth face (122), and the second side (123) as a space for arranging components of the electronic device (101).

[0031] In one embodiment, the first side (113) and the second side (123) may include a conductive material, a non-conductive material, or a combination thereof. For example, the second side (123) may include a conductive member (128) and a non-conductive member (129). The conductive member (128) may include a plurality of conductive members and may be spaced apart from each other. The non-conductive member (129) may be disposed between the plurality of conductive members. An antenna structure may be formed by some or a combination of the plurality of conductive members and the plurality of non-conductive members.

[0032] In one embodiment, the second side (123) may be pivotally connected to the first side (113) via a hinge structure (160) disposed on a hinge cover (165). The hinge structure (160) may include a hinge assembly (162), a first hinge plate (166), and a second hinge plate (167). The first hinge plate (166) may be connected to the first housing (110), and the second hinge plate (167) may be connected to the second housing (120).

[0033] In one embodiment, the flexible display (130) may include a window exposed to the outside. The window may be formed as a protective layer to protect the surface of the flexible display (130) and transmit visual information provided from the flexible display (130) to the outside. The window may include a glass material such as ultra-thin glass (UTG) or a polymer material such as polyimide (PI). In one embodiment, the flexible display (130) may form a first side (111) of the first housing (110) and a third side (121) of the second housing (120) across the hinge structure (160). The flexible display (130) may be disposed on the first support member (170) and the second support member (180). The flexible display (130) may include a first display area (131) disposed on a first support member (170), a second display area (132) disposed on a second support member (180), and a third display area (133) between the first display area (131) and the second display area (132). The first display area (131), the second display area (132), and the third display area (133) may form the front surface of the flexible display (130).

[0034] According to one embodiment, an opening may be formed in a portion of a screen display area of ​​the flexible display (130), or a recess or opening may be formed in a support member (e.g., a bracket) that supports the flexible display (130). The electronic device (101) may include at least one of a sensor module (138) and a camera (136) aligned with the recess or the opening. For example, the first display area (131) may further include a camera (136) that can acquire an image from the outside through a portion of the first display area (131) and a sensor module (138) that generates an electric signal or data value corresponding to an external environmental state. According to one embodiment, at least one of a sensor module (138) and a camera (136) may be included on the back of the flexible display (130) corresponding to the first display area (131) or the second display area (132) of the flexible display (130). For example, at least one of the camera (136) and the sensor module (138) may be disposed below the flexible display (130) and may be covered by the flexible display (130). At least one of the camera (136) and the sensor module (138) may be covered by the flexible display (130) and may not be exposed to the outside. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the flexible display (130) may include an opening that exposes the camera (136) and the sensor module (138) to the outside. Although not shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B , in one embodiment, the flexible display (130) may further include a rear surface opposite the front surface. In one embodiment, the flexible display (130) may be supported by a first support member (170) and a second support member (180).

[0035] In one embodiment, the hinge structure (160) may be configured to rotatably connect a first support member (170) forming a portion of the first housing (110) and a second support member (180) forming a portion of the second housing (120). The first support member (170) may be connected to or supported by a first hinge plate (166). The second support member (180) may be connected to or supported by a second hinge plate (167).

[0036] In one embodiment, a hinge cover (165) surrounding the hinge structure (160) may be at least partially exposed between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) while the electronic device (101) is in a folded state. The hinge cover (165) may be covered by the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) while the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state.

[0037] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can be folded about a folding axis (137) passing through the hinge cover (165) (or hinge structure (160)). For example, the hinge cover (165) can be disposed between a first housing (110) and a second housing (120) of the electronic device (101) to enable the electronic device (101) to be bent, curved, or folded. For example, the first housing (110) is connected to the second housing (120) through a hinge structure (160) disposed in the hinge cover (165) and can rotate about the folding axis (137). For example, the hinge structure (160) can include hinge assemblies (162) disposed at both ends of a first hinge plate (166) and a second hinge plate (167). The hinge assembly (162) includes hinge gears interlocked therein, so that the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167) can rotate about the folding axis. The first housing (110) coupled to the first hinge plate (166) is connected to the second housing (120) coupled to the second hinge plate (167), and can rotate about the folding axis by the hinge assemblies (162).

[0038] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can be folded such that the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) face each other by rotating about the folding axis (137). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can be folded such that the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) cover or overlap each other.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 2C, the electronic device (101) may include a first support member (170), a second support member (180), a hinge structure (160), a flexible display (130), a printed circuit board (150), a battery (155), a hinge cover (165), an antenna (185), a display panel (135), and a rear plate (190). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of the components or additionally include another component.

[0040] The first housing (110) and the second housing (120) can support a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (130) of FIG. 1A). The flexible display panel can include a front surface that provides information by emitting light and a back surface facing the front surface. When the first side (111) of the first housing (110) faces the third side (121) of the second housing (120), the side facing the first display area (131) of the flexible display (130) and the side facing the second display area (132) can be in a folded state facing each other. When the first side (111) of the first housing (110) and the third side (121) of the second housing (120) face the same direction, the flexible display (130) can be in an unfolded state in which the first display area (131) and the second display area (132) of the flexible display (130) face the same direction.

[0041] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can provide an unfolded state in which the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) are fully folded out by the hinge structure (160). The first support member (170) is connected to the second support member (180) through the hinge structure (160) to switch the electronic device (101) between the folded state and the unfolded state. By the rotation of the hinge gear (163), the first support member (170) and the second support member (180) attached to the hinge plates (166, 167) of the hinge structure (160) can move. The hinge plates (166, 167) may include a first hinge plate (166) coupled with a first support member (170) and a second hinge plate (167) coupled with a second support member (180). By the rotation of the hinge gear (163), the electronic device (101) may be switched between a folded state and an unfolded state.

[0042] The hinge structure (160) may include a hinge assembly (162), a first hinge plate (166), and a second hinge plate (167). The hinge assembly (162) may include a hinge gear (163) that pivotally enables the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167). The hinge gear (163) may rotate while interlocking with each other to rotate the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167). The hinge assembly (162) may include a plurality of hinge assemblies. Each of the plurality of hinge assemblies may be disposed on both sides formed by the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167).

[0043] The first hinge plate (166) can be coupled with the first support member (170) of the first housing (110), and the second hinge plate (167) can be coupled with the second support member (180) of the second housing (120). The first housing (110) and the second housing (120) can rotate in response to the rotation of the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167).

[0044] The first housing (110) may include a first support member (170) and a second support member (180). The first support member (170) may be partially wrapped by the first side (113), and the second support member (180) may be partially wrapped by the second side (123). The first support member (170) may be formed integrally with the first side (113), and the second support member (180) may be formed integrally with the second side (123). According to one embodiment, the first support member (170) may be formed separately from the first side (113), and the second support member (180) may be formed separately from the second side (123). The first side (113) and the second side (123) may be formed of a metallic material, a non-metallic material, or a combination thereof, and may be used as an antenna.

[0045] The first support member (170) can be coupled to the flexible display (130) on one side and to the rear plate (190) on the other side. The second support member (180) can be coupled to the flexible display (130) on one side and to the display panel (135) on the other side.

[0046] A printed circuit board (150) and a battery (155) may be placed between the surface formed by the first support member (170) and the second support member (180) and the surface formed by the display panel (135) and the rear plate (190). The printed circuit board (150) may be separated so that it may be placed on each of the first support member (170) of the first housing (110) and the second support member (180) of the second housing (120). The shapes of the first printed circuit board (151) placed on the first support member (170) and the second printed circuit board (152) placed on the second support member (180) may be different from each other depending on the space inside the electronic device. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device (101) may be placed on the first printed circuit board (151) and the second printed circuit board (152). According to one embodiment, the first printed circuit board (151) may have components for implementing the overall function of the electronic device (101) arranged thereon, and the second printed circuit board (152) may have electronic components for implementing some functions of the first printed circuit board (151) arranged thereon, or components for driving the display panel (135) arranged on the fourth surface (122) may be arranged thereon. The first printed circuit board (151) and the second printed circuit board (152) may be electrically connected by a flexible printed circuit board (140).

[0047] The battery (155) may be, for example, a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device (101), and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. At least a portion of the battery (155) may be disposed substantially on the same plane as the printed circuit board (150). The substantially coplanar surfaces of the printed circuit board (150) and the battery (155) may be disposed on one surface of the first support member (170) and the second support member (180) (e.g., the surface facing the second surface (112) and the fourth surface (122), or the surface facing the display panel (135) and the rear plate (190). For example, a flexible display (130) may be placed on the first side (111) and the third side (121), and a printed circuit board (150) and a battery (155) may be placed on the second side (112) and the fourth side (122) facing the side on which the flexible display (130) is placed.

[0048] Antenna (185) may be positioned between the rear plate (190) and the battery (155) in one embodiment. Antenna (185) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. Antenna (185) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2, the hinge structure (160) may include a hinge assembly (162), a hinge cover (165), a first hinge plate (166), a second hinge plate (167), and bar-shaped plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3, 262-1, 262-2). The hinge structure (160) may pivotally connect the first housing (110) (or the first support member (170) of the first housing (110)) and the second housing (120) (or the second support member (180) of the second housing (120)). The hinge assembly (162) may pivotally connect the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). The hinge assembly (162) can be coupled to the first housing (110) (or the first support member (170) of the first housing (110)) on the right side with respect to the folding axis (137). The hinge assembly (162) can be coupled to the second housing (120) (or the second support member (180) of the second housing (120)) on the left side with respect to the folding axis (137). When the electronic device (101) is folded with respect to the folding axis (137), the first support member (170) and the second support member (180) connected to the hinge assembly (162) can rotate with respect to the folding axis (137).

[0050] The hinge assembly (162) can be connected to a first hinge plate (166) and a second hinge plate (167). The hinge assembly (162) can be connected to the first hinge plate (166) on the right side with respect to the folding axis (137). The hinge assembly (162) can be connected to the second hinge plate (167) on the left side with respect to the folding axis (137). The first hinge plate (166) can be connected to the first housing (110) (or the first support member (170)). The second hinge plate (167) can be connected to the second housing (120) (or the second support member (180)). When the electronic device (101) is folded about the folding axis (137), the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167) connected to the hinge assembly (162) can rotate about the folding axis (137). According to the rotation of the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167), the first housing (110) (or the first support member (170)) and the second housing (120) (or the second support member (180)) can rotate about the folding axis (137).

[0051] The first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167) may be spaced apart from each other. The first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167) may be line-symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (137). The hinge structure (160) may have a space between the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167) due to the separation of the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167).

[0052] The flexible display (130) may be supported by a first hinge plate (166), a second hinge plate (167), a first support member (170), and a second support member (180). To fill the space between the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167), bar-shaped plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3, 262-1, 262-2) may be included. The bar-shaped plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3, 262-1, 262-2) may be placed between the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167). The bar-shaped plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3, 262-1, 262-2) can support the flexible display (130) by filling the space between the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167). The bar-shaped plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3, 262-1, 262-2) can reduce damage to the flexible display (130) by limiting the flexible display (130) from directly contacting the hinge gear or the connecting member (e.g., screw). Some of the plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3) of the bar-shaped plates can be assembled to the hinge assemblies (162-1, 162-2, 162-3).

[0053] The number of the above-described plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3) may correspond to the number of hinge assemblies (162-1, 162-2, 162-3). The hinge assemblies (162-1, 162-2, 162-3) may include a first hinge assembly (162-1), a second hinge assembly (162-2), and a third hinge assembly (162-3). The first hinge assembly (162-1) may be arranged on the upper side of the folding axis (137) based on the drawing, and the third hinge assembly (162-3) may be arranged on the lower side of the folding axis (137). The second hinge assembly (162-2) may be disposed between the first hinge assembly (162-1) and the third hinge assembly (162-3). The first hinge assembly (162-1), the second hinge assembly (162-2), and the third hinge assembly (162-3) may be spaced apart from each other and disposed along the folding axis (137). Although the number of hinge assemblies is described as three, this is not limited thereto. The hinge structure (160) may include two hinge assemblies by omitting the second hinge assembly (162-2), or may include three or more hinge assemblies by including more hinge assemblies.

[0054] The first plate (261-1) can be coupled to the first hinge assembly (162-1). The second plate (261-2) can be coupled to the second hinge assembly (162-2). The third plate (261-3) can be coupled to the third hinge assembly (162-3). Each of the first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), and the third hinge plate (261-3) can be positioned at the center of the first hinge assembly (162-1), the second hinge assembly (162-2), and the third hinge assembly (162-3). For example, the first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), and the third plate (261-3) may be respectively disposed on the first hinge assembly (162-1), the second hinge assembly (162-2), and the third hinge assembly (162-3) along the folding axis (137). The first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), and the third plate (261-3) may be formed in a bar shape, and may be referred to as a center bar in terms of being disposed at the center of the hinge assembly (162). The first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), and the third plate (261-3) may be spaced apart from the flexible display (130). The first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), and the third plate (261-3) can move toward the hinge cover (165) to be spaced apart from the bending portion (e.g., the portion corresponding to the third display area (133)) of the flexible display (130) while the electronic device (101) changes into a folded state. The first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), and the third plate (261-3) can move toward the hinge plates (166, 167) (or toward the bending portion of the flexible display (130)) to maintain a distance from the bending portion (e.g., the portion corresponding to the third display area (133)) of the flexible display (130) while the electronic device (101) changes into an unfolded state.

[0055] The fourth plate (262-1) and the fifth plate (262-2) can be placed in a spaced space between the first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), and the third plate (261-3). The fourth plate (262-1) can be placed between the first plate (261-1) and the second plate (261-2). The fourth plate (262-1) can connect the first plate (261-1) and the second plate (261-2). For example, one end of the fourth plate (262-1) can be placed on the first plate (261-1), and the other end of the fourth plate (262-1) can be placed on the second plate (261-2). The fifth plate (262-2) can be placed between the second plate (261-2) and the third plate (261-3). The fifth plate (262-2) can connect the second plate (261-2) and the third plate (261-3). One end of the fifth plate (262-2) can be placed on the second plate (261-2), and the other end of the fifth plate (262-2) can be placed on the third plate (261-3). The fourth plate (262-1) and the fifth plate (262-2) can be referred to as a bridge in terms of connecting the first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), and the third plate (261-3).

[0056] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary foldable electronic device in an unfolded state. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary foldable electronic device in a folded state.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a first housing (110) and a second housing (120). The first housing (110) may include a first support member (170). The second housing (120) may include a second support member (180). The first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may rotate about a folding axis (137).

[0058] The foldable electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (160). The hinge structure (160) may rotatably couple a first housing (110) and a second housing (120). The first housing (110) may be rotatably coupled to the hinge structure (160) about a folding axis (137). The second housing (120) may be rotatably coupled to the hinge structure (160) about a folding axis (137). For example, the hinge structure (160) may include a hinge assembly (162) and a first hinge plate (166) or a second hinge plate (167). The first hinge plate (166) may connect the hinge assembly (162) and the flexible display (130). The second hinge plate (167) can connect the hinge assembly (162) and the flexible display (130). A portion of the hinge assembly (162) can be coupled to the first support member (170), and a portion of the remaining portion of the hinge assembly (162) can be coupled to the second support member (180).

[0059] The hinge assembly (162) may include a first rotating body (310). The first rotating body (310) rotates around a first axis (a1), and the first rotating body (310) may be connected to a first housing (110).

[0060] The first rotating body (310) may include a first gear (311) and a first support member (312). The first gear (311) may rotate around a first axis (a1). The first gear (311) may rotate around a shaft that is coaxial with the first axis (a1). As the first gear (311) rotates, the first rotating body (310) may rotate around the first axis (a1). The first support member (312) may be connected to the first gear (311) and rotate together with the first gear (311). The first support member (312) may be formed integrally with the first gear (311). The first support member (312) may support the first hinge plate (166) and the first housing (110) (or the first support member (170)). The first support member (312) may be in contact with the first hinge plate (166) or the first housing (110). The first support member (312) may extend from the first gear (311) in a parallel manner to the first support member (170). The first support member (312) may extend from the first gear (311) in a direction away from the folding axis (137). The first rotating body (310) may include a first support member (312) that rotates around a first axis (a1) and extends from the first axis (a1) in a direction perpendicular to the first axis (a1). The first rotating body (310) may be referred to as an arm in the aspect that the first support member (312) rotates around the first axis (a1), or may be referred to as a link in the aspect that it connects the first housing (110) or the first support member (170) while pivoting around the first axis (a1).

[0061] The second rotating body (320) may include a second gear (321) and a second support member (322). The second gear (321) may rotate around a second axis (a2) that is parallel to the first axis (a1). The second gear (321) may rotate around a shaft that is coaxial with the second axis (a2). As the second gear (321) rotates, the second rotating body (320) may rotate around the second axis (a2). The second support member (322) may be connected to the second gear (321) and rotate together with the second gear (321). The second support member (322) may be formed integrally with the second gear (321). The second support member (322) may support the second hinge plate (167) and the second housing (120) (or the second support member (180)). The second support member (322) may be in contact with the second hinge plate (167) or the second housing (120). The second support member (322) may extend from the second gear (321) in a parallel manner to the second support member (180). The second support member (322) may extend from the second gear (321) in a direction away from the folding axis (137). The second rotating body (320) may include a second support member (322) that rotates around the second axis (a2) and extends from the second axis (a2) in a direction perpendicular to the second axis (a2). The second rotating body (320) may be referred to as an arm in the sense that the second support member (322) rotates around the second axis (a2), or may be referred to as a link in the sense that it connects the second housing (120) or the second support member (180) while pivoting around the second axis (a2).

[0062] The first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) can rotate in conjunction with each other. The first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) can move while maintaining substantial symmetry with respect to the folding axis (137). The first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) can rotate in conjunction with the folding axis (137) while maintaining symmetry with respect to the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) with respect to the folding axis (137). As the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) rotate in conjunction with each other, the flexible display (130) can be folded while maintaining symmetry at the bending portion (130-1) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes.

[0063] The hinge assembly (162) may further include a linkage structure for maintaining the linkage between the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320). For example, the hinge assembly (162) may further include a first rack gear (330) and a second rack gear (340). The first rack gear (330) may mesh with the first gear (311). The second rack gear (340) may mesh with the second gear (321). The first rack gear (330) may move linearly by the rotation of the first gear (311). The second rack gear (340) may move linearly by the rotation of the second gear (321). The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may move substantially together along the z-axis direction. For example, the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can move toward the bending portion (130-1) of the flexible display (130) while the electronic device (101) changes into an unfolded state. The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can move toward the +z-axis direction while the electronic device (101) changes into an unfolded state.

[0064] The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may be configured to move simultaneously. The gear teeth of the first rack gear (330) may be in close contact with the gear teeth of the first gear (311). The gear teeth of the second rack gear (340) may be in close contact with the gear teeth of the second gear (321). The hinge structure (160) may further include a component configured to allow the first rack gear (330) and the first gear (311) to be in close contact with each other while the second rack gear (340) and the second gear (321) are in close contact with each other. The hinge structure (160) may further include an elastic member (350). The elastic member (350) may be arranged between the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The elastic member (350) may pressurize the inner surfaces of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The elastic member (350) can provide elastic force toward the inner surfaces of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The elastic member (350) can include a compressible and restoring material, such as a spring, a plate spring, a disk spring, a sponge, a porous material, or a rubber material. The first rack gear (330) can include a side wall (331) that surrounds a portion of the elastic member (350). The second rack gear (340) can include a side wall (341) that surrounds another portion of the elastic member (350). The gear teeth (332) of the first rack gear (330) can be formed on a portion of the side wall (331) that faces the first gear (311). The gear teeth (342) of the second rack gear (340) can be formed on a portion of the side wall (341) that faces the second gear (321). One end of the elastic member (350) may be in contact with the inner surface of the side wall (331) facing the first gear (311), and the other end of the elastic member (350) may be in contact with the inner surface of the side wall (341) facing the second gear (321). The elastic member (350) may be configured to press the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) in the direction toward the first gear (311) and the second gear (321), respectively.As the elastic member (350) presses the side wall (331), the gear teeth (332) of the first rack gear (330) can be brought into close contact with the gear teeth of the first gear (311). As the elastic member (350) presses the side wall (341), the gear teeth (342) of the second rack gear (340) can be brought into close contact with the gear teeth of the second gear (321). The elastic member (350) can maintain the meshing state of the first gear (311) and the first rack gear (330) by pressing the first rack gear (330). The elastic member (350) can maintain the meshing state of the second gear (321) and the second rack gear (340) by pressing the second rack gear (340).

[0065] The hinge assembly (162) may further include a guide (360). The guide (360) may be configured to guide the movement of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) according to the rotation of the first gear (311) and the second gear (321). The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may include a structure configured to move along the guide. For example, when the guide (360) is a protrusion extending along the z-axis, the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may include guide grooves surrounding the protrusion. The guide grooves may form a space or hole for receiving the protrusion by facing each other. The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may move in the z-axis direction (or the -z-axis direction) along the protrusion.

[0066] The first gear (311) and the second gear (321) can be interlocked with each other by the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). For example, when the first gear (311) rotates counterclockwise with respect to the first axis (a1), the first rack gear (330) meshed with the first gear (311) can move in the -z-axis direction along the guide (360). As the first rack gear (330) moves, the second rack gear (340) is pressed by the elastic member (350) and can move along the -z-axis together with the first rack gear (330). As the second rack gear (340) moves in the -z-axis direction, the second gear (321) can rotate clockwise with respect to the second axis (a2). Although it has been described that the first gear (311) moves first, and the first rack gear (330), the second rack gear (340), and the second gear (321) move sequentially, this is only a description of the process by which power is transmitted, and in reality, the first gear (311), the first rack gear (330), the second rack gear (340), and the second gear (321) can move together.

[0067] According to the interlocking of the first gear (311) and the second gear (321), the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) can rotate in conjunction with each other. According to the interlocking of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320), the first hinge plate (166), the first housing (110) and / or the first support member (170) coupled to the first rotating body (310) and the second hinge plate (167), the second housing (120) and / or the second support member (180) coupled to the second rotating body (320) can rotate in conjunction with each other.

[0068] As the meshing of the gears increases, the backlash between the gears may increase. The hinge structure (160) described above may have an engagement point between the first gear (311) and the first rack gear (330) and an engagement point between the second gear (321) and the second rack gear (340) regardless of the width (w) between the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). For the interlocking between the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340), the hinge structure (160) may arrange driven gears. When the width (w) increases, the backlash may increase as the number of driven gears arranged between the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) increases.

[0069] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) includes a hinge structure (160) having a linkage structure, so that the first housing (110) (or a component of the first housing (110), a component coupled to the first housing (110)) and the second housing (120) (or a component of the second housing (120), a component coupled to the second housing (120)) can move symmetrically with respect to each other. The flexible display (130) disposed on the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) can be symmetrically folded or unfolded around the folding axis (137) according to the linkage between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). Due to the linkage between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120), damage to the flexible display (130) can be reduced. The hinge structure (160) can reduce the gap or backlash between gears by the close contact between the first gear (311) and the first rack gear (330) and the close contact between the second gear (321) and the second rack gear (340).

[0070] Figure 4 is a plan view illustrating an exemplary hinge assembly. Figure 5 is an exploded view of the exemplary hinge assembly.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the hinge assembly (162) may include a first rotating body (310), a second rotating body (320), a first rack gear (330), a second rack gear (340), and an elastic member (350). The first rotating body (310), the second rotating body (320), the first rack gear (330), the second rack gear (340), and the elastic member (350) may be the same as or similar to the first rotating body (310), the second rotating body (320), the first rack gear (330), the second rack gear (340), and the elastic member (350) of FIGS. 3A and 3B. Any description overlapping with that of FIGS. 3A and 3B will be omitted.

[0072] The first rotating body (310) can be rotatably coupled to a first shaft (461). The first shaft (461) can provide a first axis (e.g., the first axis (a1) of FIG. 3A). The first rotating body (310) can rotate around the first shaft (461) that is coaxial with the first axis (a1). The second rotating body (320) can be rotatably coupled to a second shaft (462). The second shaft (462) can provide a second axis (e.g., the second axis (a2) of FIG. 3A). The second rotating body (320) can rotate around the second shaft (462) that is coaxial with the second axis (a2).

[0073] The hinge assembly (162) may further include a first frame (431). The first frame (431) may be disposed below the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The first frame (431) may be disposed between the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320), and may be disposed between the first bracket (410) and the second bracket (420). The first frame (431) may include a guide (e.g., the guide (360) of FIGS. 3A and 3B) that guides movement of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may be coupled to the first frame (431) so as to be movable in a linear direction (e.g., in the z-axis direction) through the guide (360). A first frame (431) coupled to a first rack gear (330) and a second rack gear (340) can support a first rotating body (310) and a second rotating body (320). The first frame (431) can support a first bracket (410) coupled to the first rotating body (310) and a second bracket (420) coupled to the second rotating body (320).

[0074] The hinge assembly (162) may further include a first bracket (410) and a second bracket (420). The first bracket (410) may be movably coupled to the first rotating body (310). The second bracket (420) may be movably coupled to the second rotating body (320). A portion of the first bracket (410) may be inserted into a guide groove formed on a side surface of the first rotating body (310). The first bracket (410) may move along the path of the guide groove of the first rotating body (310). While the first rotating body (310) rotates relative to the first shaft (461), the first bracket (410) may slide along the guide groove of the first rotating body (310) and rotate relative to the first shaft (461). A part of the second bracket (420) can be inserted into a guide groove formed on a side surface of the second rotating body (320). The second bracket (420) can move along the path of the guide groove of the second rotating body (320). While the second rotating body (320) rotates relative to the second shaft (462), the second bracket (420) can rotate relative to the second shaft (462) while sliding along the guide groove of the second rotating body (320).

[0075] The first bracket (410) can be connected to the first support member (170) (e.g., the first support member (170) of FIG. 1C). The first bracket (410) can be connected to the first support member (170) via a fastening means and fastening holes (410a, 410b) (or grooves). The second bracket (420) can be connected to the second support member (180) (e.g., the second support member (180) of FIG. 1C). The second bracket (420) can be connected to the second support member (180) via a fastening means and fastening holes (420a, 420b) (or grooves). The fastening means can include a bolt and / or nut for screw coupling, a hook structure for hook coupling, or a fitting structure including a groove (or opening) and a protrusion. The first bracket (410) (or the second bracket (420)) is described as being connected to the first support member (170) (or the second support member (180)) through a physical connection, but is not limited thereto. The first bracket (410) (or the second bracket (420)) may be connected to the first support member (170) (or the second support member (180)) by bonding (or welding) or using an adhesive material (tape, adhesive, or double-sided tape).

[0076] The hinge assembly (162) may further include a second frame (432), a third rotating body (450), and a fourth rotating body (460). The second frame (432) may be spaced apart from the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320). For example, the second frame (432) may be spaced apart from the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) in a direction parallel to the folding axis (137). The second frame (432) may be spaced apart from the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) in the -y-axis direction. The second frame (432) may be spaced apart from the first frame (431) that supports the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) in the folding axis direction.

[0077] The second frame (432) may include a first structure (432a) into which a portion of the first shaft (461) is inserted, and a second structure (432b) into which a portion of the second shaft (462) is inserted. The first structure (432a) may include a groove or hole capable of receiving an end of the first shaft (461). The second structure (432b) may include a groove or hole capable of receiving an end of the second shaft (462). The second frame (432) may be coupled to the first shaft (461) through the first structure (432a) and to the second shaft (462) through the second structure (432b).

[0078] The second frame (432) can rotatably support the third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460). The third rotating body (450) can be coupled to the second frame (432) so as to be rotatable about a third axis (a3). The fourth rotating body (460) can be coupled to the second frame (432) so as to be rotatable about a fourth axis (a4). The second frame (432) can include a rotation rail for the rotation of the third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460). The third rotating body (450) can be coupled to a rail configured to rotate about a third axis (a3) ​​formed on the second frame (432). The third rotating body (450) can rotate about the third axis (a3) ​​by moving along the rail. The fourth rotating body (460) may be coupled to a rail configured to rotate around a fourth axis (a4) formed on the second frame (432). The fourth rotating body (460) may rotate around the fourth axis (a4) by moving along the rail. The third rotating body (450) may be coupled to a third bracket (471). The fourth rotating body (460) may be coupled to a fourth bracket (472). The third bracket (471) may be movably coupled to the third rotating body (450). The fourth bracket (472) may be movably coupled to the fourth rotating body (460). The third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)) may rotate and / or linearly move with respect to the third rotating body (450) (or the fourth rotating body (460)). The third rotating body (450) may include a guide rail for the movement of the third bracket (471). The fourth rotating body (460) may include a guide rail for the movement of the fourth bracket (472). The third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)) may move along the guide rail formed on the third rotating body (450) (or the fourth rotating body (460)). The movement path of the third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)) may be determined according to the shape of the guide rail.

[0079] The third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460) may include a plurality of parts (450-1, 450-2, 460-1, 460-2) for ease of assembly. The third rotating body (450) (or the fourth rotating body (460)) may include an elastic member (451, 453) for maintaining the connection between the plurality of parts (450-1, 450-2, 460-1, 460-2) and the third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)), and an elastic member (452, 454) for maintaining the connection between the plurality of parts (450-1, 450-2, 460-1, 460-2) and the second frame (432). The third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460) are described as being composed of a plurality of parts (450-1, 450-2, 460-1, 460-2), but are not limited thereto and may be formed as a single mechanism.

[0080] The third rotating body (450) can be fastened to the first hinge plate (166), and the fourth rotating body (460) can be fastened to the second hinge plate (167). The third rotating body (450) can be coupled to the first hinge plate (166) through a fastening means and fastening holes (550a, 550b) (or grooves), and the fourth rotating body (460) can be fastened to the second hinge plate (167) through a fastening means and fastening holes (560a, 560b) (or grooves). The third bracket (471) can be fastened to the first support member (170). The fourth bracket (472) can be fastened to the second support member (180). The third bracket (471) can be coupled to the first support member (170) by means of a fastening means and fastening holes (471a, 471b) (or grooves), and the fourth bracket (472) can be coupled to the second support member (180) by means of a fastening means and fastening holes (472a, 472b) (or grooves). The fastening means can include a bolt and / or nut for screw coupling, a hook structure for hook coupling, or a fitting structure including a groove (or opening) and a protrusion. The third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)) is described as being connected to the first support member (170) (or the second support member (180)) through a physical connection, but is not limited thereto. The third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)) may be connected to the first support member (170) (or the second support member (180)) using a bonding (or welding) or adhesive material (tape, adhesive, or double-sided tape). The connection between the third rotating body (450) and the first hinge plate (166) and the connection between the fourth rotating body (460) and the second hinge plate (167) may also be connected by a method other than a physical connection.

[0081] A part of the first bracket (410) (or the second bracket (420)) and a part of the third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)) fastened to the first support member (170) (or the second support member (180)) can be moved substantially equally with respect to the folding axis (137). The first rotating body (310) (or the second rotating body (320)) can rotate with respect to the first axis (a1) (or the second axis (a2)), and the third rotating body (450) (or the fourth rotating body (460)) can rotate with respect to the third axis (a3) ​​(or the fourth axis (a4)). The first axis (a1) (or the second axis (a2)) can be parallel to the third axis (a3) ​​(or the fourth axis (a4)) and different from the third axis (a3) ​​(or the fourth axis (a4)). The first bracket (410) (or the second bracket (420)) connected to the first rotating body (310) (or the second rotating body (320)) and the third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)) connected to the third rotating body (450) (or the fourth rotating body (460)) can perform a movement to compensate for the difference in rotation angle that occurs when rotating around different axes (a1, a2, a3, a4). For example, the first bracket (410) can slide from the first rotating body (310) or rotate around a point within the first rotating body (310). The third bracket (471) can slide along a guide rail of the third rotating body (450) or rotate around a point within the third rotating body (450).

[0082] When the first bracket (410) (or the second bracket (420)) is configured to move in a straight line (e.g., in the extension direction of the first rotating body (310) (or the second rotating body (320))), the third bracket (471) (or the fourth bracket (472)) may have an incline with respect to the third rotating body (450) (or the fourth rotating body (460)). As the third bracket (471) (or fourth bracket (472)) fastened to the first hinge plate (166) (or second hinge plate (167)) has an inclination with respect to the third rotating body (450) (or fourth rotating body (460)), the first support member (170) (or second support member (180)) may have an inclination with respect to the first hinge plate (166) (or second hinge plate (167)). As the first support member (170) (or the second support member (180)) has an incline with respect to the first hinge plate (166) (or the second hinge plate (167)), the bending portion (130-1) of the flexible display (130) supported or connected to the first support member (170), the second support member (180), the first hinge plate (166), and the second hinge plate (167) may have a dumbbell shape or a water drop shape. For example, the gap between the first support member (170) and the second support member (180) located at the boundary of the bending portion (130-1) may be formed narrow, and the gap between the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167) may become wider toward the hinge cover (165). The hinge structure (160) or hinge assembly (162) may be referred to as a dumbbell hinge structure, a water drop hinge structure, a dumbbell hinge assembly, or a water drop hinge assembly in terms of providing a dumbbell shape or a water drop shape to the bending portion (130-1) of the flexible display (130) in a folded state.

[0083] The hinge assembly (162) may include a first rack gear (330), a second rack gear (340), and an elastic member (350) to maintain symmetry about the folding axis. The hinge assembly (162) including the first rack gear (330), the second rack gear (340), and the elastic member (350) may be configured such that the components of the hinge assembly (162) move symmetrically about the folding axis (137) to provide a teardrop-shaped or dumbbell-shaped shape to the bending portion (130-1) of the flexible display (130).

[0084] The hinge assembly (162) may further include structures that are coupled to the first shaft (461) and the second shaft (462) to implement a detent. The hinge structure (160) may include detent structures that provide a specified pressure to structures (461a, 461b) formed on the shafts (461, 462). The hinge assembly (162) may further include a support plate (561), washer rings (562-1, 562-2), fixed cams (563), rotating cams (564-1, 564-2), elastic members (570-1, 570-2), and fixed members (490-1, 490-2). The hinge assembly (162) can support cam motion through engagement of the fixed cam (563) and the rotary cam (564) by pushing the fixed cam (563) and the rotary cam (564) toward the structure (461a, 461b) based on the elastic force of the elastic member (570). The hinge assembly (162) can maintain the fixed cam (563) and the rotary cam (564) in an unfolded or folded state of the housings (110, 120) as well as in an intermediate state at a specified angle (an angle of 30 degrees, 90 degrees, or 120 degrees between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0085] The support plate (561) may be penetrated by the first shaft (461) and the second shaft (462). The support plate (561) may include openings through which the first shaft (461) and the second shaft (462) pass, respectively. The washer rings (562-1, 562-2) may be inserted into the first shaft (461) and the second shaft (462), respectively. The washer rings (562-1, 562-2) may be positioned between the support plate (561) and the fixed cam (563). When there are multiple support plates (561), some of the washer rings (562-1, 562-2) may be positioned between the support plates. While the hinge assembly (162) is changed about the folding axis, a frictional force may be generated between the washer rings (562-1, 562-2). The support plate (561) can provide a frictional force that limits the rotation of the first shaft (461) and the second shaft (462) by contacting the washer rings (562-1, 562-2) while the frictional force is generated. For example, the positions of the first rotating body (310) connected to the first shaft (461) and the second rotating body (320) connected to the second shaft (462) can be maintained by the frictional force between the washer rings (562-1, 562-2) and the support plate (561) even when the external force applied to the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) is removed. By maintaining the angles of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) at various angles, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1A) can maintain a posture in an intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state.

[0086] The fixed cam (563) may include a hole through which each of the first shaft (461) and the second shaft (462) passes, and may include a cam structure (e.g., a cam mountain and a cam valley) formed along the periphery of the hole. The fixed cam (563) may be connected to the first shaft (461) and the second shaft (462), so that the rotation of the fixed cam (563) with respect to the shafts (461, 462) may be restricted. The rotary cams (564-1, 564-2) may be arranged toward the cam structure of the fixed cam (563). For example, the first rotary cam (564-1) may be inserted into the first shaft (461) and may face the cam structure arranged on the first shaft (461) among the fixed cams (563). The second rotary cam (564-2) may be inserted into the second shaft (462) and may face a cam structure disposed on the second shaft (462) among the fixed cams (563). The first rotary cam (564-1) and the second rotary cam (564-2) may include at least one valley or mountain facing the cam structure of the fixed cam (563). The mountains and valleys of the cam structure may include flat areas. When the first rotary cam (564-1) and the second rotary cam (564-2) are engaged with the fixed cam (563) and rotate, the mountain of the fixed cam (563) and the mountains of the rotary cams (564-1, 564-2) are engaged, so that an elastic force increases, and an intermediate state can be firmly maintained. The elastic force may be provided through elastic members (570-1, 570-2). The elastic members (570-1, 570-2) can be positioned between the fixed members (490-1, 490-2) and the cams (e.g., the first rotation cam (564-1), the second rotation cam (564-2), and the fixed cam (563)). For example, the first elastic member (570-1) can be positioned between the first rotation cam (564-1) and the first fixed member (490-1). The first elastic member (570-1) can provide elastic force to the first rotation cam (564-1) and the first fixed member (490-1).The second elastic member (570-2) may be disposed between the second rotary cam (564-2) and the second fixed member (490-2). The second elastic member (570-2) may provide elastic force to the second rotary cam (564-2) and the second fixed member (490-2). When the mountain of the fixed cam (563) and the mountain of the rotary cams (564-1, 564-2) are engaged, the elastic members (570-1, 570-2) may be compressed to pressurize the fixed cam (563) and the rotary cams (564-1, 564-2). The pressurized fixed cam (563) and the rotating cams (564-1, 564-2) can pressurize the washer rings (562-1, 562-2) and the support plate (561) to increase the frictional force between the washer rings (562-1, 562-2) and the support plate (561). The elastic members (570-1, 570-2) can increase the frictional force to maintain an intermediate state within a specified angle. The elastic members (570-1, 570-2) may be disc springs having high elasticity. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the elastic members (570-1, 570-2) may include a coil spring that surrounds each of the shafts (461, 462) or a spring or elastic body that can provide a repulsive force by compression and tension.

[0087] The hinge assembly (162) may include guide members (580-1, 580-2, 580-3, 580-4). The guide members (580-1, 580-2, 580-3, 580-4) may be in the form of clips that wrap around a portion of the rotation axis. The guide members (580-1, 580-2, 580-3, 580-4) may be coupled to a plate among the plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3) that is arranged in the hinge assembly (162). The guide members (580-1, 580-2, 580-3, 580-4) are rotated by the shafts (461, 462), and by the rotation, the plate connected to the hinge assembly (162) among the plates (261-1, 261-2, 261-3) can move up and down.

[0088] According to the above-described embodiment, the hinge assembly (162) is configured so that the components of the hinge assembly (162) move symmetrically with respect to the folding axis (137), thereby preventing or reducing distortion of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0089] Fig. 6 is a drawing showing the coupling relationship between the rotating bodies and rack gears of an exemplary hinge assembly. Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the rotating bodies and rack gears of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the hinge assembly (162) may include a hinge linkage structure (600). The hinge linkage structure (600) may include a first rotating body (310), a second rotating body (320), a first rack gear (330), a second rack gear (340), an elastic member (350), and a guide (360). The hinge linkage structure (600) may be configured so that the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) move simultaneously. As the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) rotate symmetrically about the folding axis (137), the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may rotate while maintaining symmetry about the folding axis (137). The hinge linkage structure (600) can prevent or reduce the flexible display (130) from being twisted according to the symmetrical movement of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0091] The hinge linkage structure (600) may be disposed on the first frame (431). The hinge linkage structure (600) may be supported by the first frame (431). The first rotating body (310) may rotate around a first axis (a1). The first rotating body (310) may include a first gear (311) and a first support member (312). The first support member (312) may support or be connected to the first housing (110) (e.g., the first housing (110) of FIG. 1A) or the first support member (e.g., the first support member (170) of FIG. 1C). The first gear (311) may rotate around the first axis (a1) and engage with the first rack gear (330). By the rotation of the first gear (311), the first rack gear (330) may move in the z-axis direction. The second rotating body (320) may include a second gear (321) and a second support member (322). The second support member (322) may support or be connected to a second housing (120) (e.g., the second housing (120) of FIG. 1A) or a second support member (e.g., the second support member (180) of FIG. 1C). The second gear (321) may rotate around a second axis (a2) and engage with a second rack gear (340). By the rotation of the second gear (321), the second rack gear (340) may move in the z-axis direction.

[0092] The elastic member (350) may be disposed between the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The elastic member (350) may be wrapped by the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The elastic member (350) may be compressed by the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The compressed elastic member (350) may pressurize the inner surfaces of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The elastic member (350) may pressurize the first rack gear (330) toward the first gear (311) and may pressurize the second rack gear (340) toward the second gear (321). As the elastic member (350) provides elastic force to the first rack gear (330) toward the first gear (311) and provides elastic force to the second rack gear (340) toward the second gear (321), the first gear (311), the first rack gear (330), the second gear (321) and the second rack gear (340) can be brought into close contact. As the first gear (311), the first rack gear (330), the second gear (321) and the second rack gear (340) are brought into close contact, when the first gear (311) rotates, the second gear (321) can rotate in a direction opposite to the rotational direction of the first gear (311). The rotational speed of the first gear (311) can be substantially the same as the rotational speed of the second gear (321). The rotation speed of the first rack gear (330) that moves in the z-axis direction according to the rotation of the first gear (311) may be substantially the same as the rotation speed of the second rack gear (340) that moves in the z-axis direction according to the rotation of the second gear (321). The elastic member (350) may be exposed to the outside through open portions of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). For example, the removed portion (e.g., groove) of the first rack gear (330) and the removed portion of the second rack gear (340) that faces the removed portion of the first rack gear (330) may include an open structure (a hole, an opening, or a spaced gap) that exposes the elastic member (350).

[0093] The guide (360) can guide the movement of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) in the z-axis direction. The guide (360) can protrude from one surface of the first frame (431) in a direction toward the flexible display (130) (e.g., in the +z-axis direction). The guide (360) can extend in the movement direction (e.g., in the z-axis direction) of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The first rack gear (330), the second rack gear (340), and the guide (360) can include a coupling structure so that the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can be movably coupled to the guide (360).

[0094] The guide (360) may include grooves (711; 712) that can accommodate a portion of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The guide (360) may include grooves (711; 712) dug from a surface facing the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). There may be a plurality of guides (360). For example, the first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2) may be arranged on the first frame (431). The first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2) may be arranged inside the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). For example, the first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2) may be surrounded by the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The first guide (360-1) may be spaced apart from the second guide (360-2). An elastic member (350) may be disposed between the first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2). The first guide (360-1) may include a partition wall (701) for forming a groove (711). The partition wall (701) may be formed along an edge of the groove (711), so that the first guide (360-1) may have a hollow polygonal pipe shape. One end of the partition wall (701) may be connected to one surface of the first frame (431). The second guide (360-2) may include a partition wall (702) for forming a groove (712). The partition wall (702) may be formed along the edge of the groove (712), so that the second guide (360-2) may have a hollow polygonal pipe shape. One end of the partition wall (702) may be connected to one surface of the first frame (431).

[0095] The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may include rods (741, 742) inserted into the grooves (711, 712) of the first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2), respectively. The rods (741, 742) may extend from the inner surface of the upper portion (700b) of the second rack gear (340) (e.g., the surface facing the grooves (711, 712)) toward the first frame (431). The rods (not shown) of the first rack gear (330) may extend from the inner surface of the upper portion (700a) of the first rack gear (330) toward the first frame (431). The rods (741, 742) may move in the z-axis direction within the grooves (711, 712). By means of the loads (741, 742) inserted into each of the grooves (711, 712), the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can be moved in the z-axis direction.

[0096] Figure 8 is a drawing illustrating a guide structure of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 8, the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) of the hinge linkage structure (600) can provide at least one space (810, 820, 830) for accommodating guides (360-1, 360-2) and an elastic member (350).

[0098] The first rack gear (330) may include side walls (800a, 801a, 802a) extending in a first direction (z-axis direction) from the upper portion (700a). The side walls (800a, 801a, 802a) may form an outer appearance of the first rack gear (330). The side walls (800a, 801a, 802a) of the first rack gear (330) may extend from the upper portion (e.g., the upper portion (700a) of FIG. 7) toward the first frame (431). The first rack gear (330) may include a first side wall (800a), a second side wall (801a), and a third side wall (802a). The first side wall (800a) may extend in a second direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) parallel to the folding axis. The second side wall (801a) may be bent from one end of the first side wall (800a) and extend in a third direction (e.g., in the x-axis direction). The third side wall (802a) may be bent from the other end of the first side wall (800a) and extend in a third direction (e.g., in the x-axis direction). The third side wall (802a) may be parallel to the second side wall (801a). The second side wall (801a) and the third side wall (802a) may extend from both ends of the first side wall (800a) toward the second rack gear (340).

[0099] The second rack gear (340) may include side walls (800b, 801b, 802b) extending in a first direction (z-axis direction) from the upper portion (700b). The side walls (800b, 801b, 802b) may form an outer appearance of the second rack gear (340). The side walls (800b, 801b, 802b) of the second rack gear (340) may extend from the upper portion (e.g., the upper portion (700b) of FIG. 7) toward the first frame (431). The second rack gear (340) may include a fourth side wall (800b), a fifth side wall (801b), and a sixth side wall (802b). The fourth side wall (800b) may extend in a second direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) parallel to the folding axis. The fifth side wall (801b) may be bent from one end of the fourth side wall (800b) and extend in a third direction (e.g., in the x-axis direction). The sixth side wall (802b) may be bent from the other end of the fourth side wall (800b) and extend in a third direction (e.g., in the x-axis direction). The sixth side wall (802b) may be parallel to the fifth side wall (801b). The fifth side wall (801b) and the sixth side wall (802b) may extend from both ends of the fourth side wall (800b) toward the first rack gear (330).

[0100] The first side wall (800a) may include gear teeth of a first rack gear (330) exposed toward the first gear (e.g., the first gear (311) of FIGS. 3a and 3b). The fourth side wall (800b) may include gear teeth of a second rack gear (340) exposed toward the second gear (e.g., the second gear (321) of FIGS. 3a and 3b).

[0101] The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can surround the first guide (360-1), the elastic member (350), and the second guide (360-2), respectively. The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can further include partitions (803, 804) to provide spaces (810, 820, 830) surrounding the first guide (360-1), the elastic member (350), and the second guide (360-2). Depending on the arrangement of the first guide (360-1), the elastic member (350), the second guide (360-2), the first rack gear (330), and the second rack gear (340), the partitions (803, 804) can be omitted. For example, if the side of the elastic member (350) is adjacent to the first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2), so that the elastic member (350) can be placed in a designated area in the space within the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340), the partitions (803, 804) may be omitted.

[0102] The first rack gear (330) may include a first bulkhead (803a) and a second bulkhead (803b). The first bulkhead (803a) and the second bulkhead (803b) may be formed parallel to the second side wall (801a) and the third side wall (802a). The first bulkhead (803a) and the second bulkhead (803b) may extend from the first side wall (800a) toward the second rack gear (340). The first bulkhead (803a) may be arranged between the first guide (360-1) and the elastic member (350). The second bulkhead (803b) may be arranged between the elastic member (350) and the second guide member (360-2). The second rack gear (340) may include a third bulkhead (804a) and a fourth bulkhead (804b). The third bulkhead (804a) and the fourth bulkhead (804b) may be formed parallel to the fifth side wall (801b). The third bulkhead (804a) and the fourth bulkhead (804b) may extend from the fourth side wall (800b) toward the first rack gear (330). The third bulkhead (804a) may be arranged between the first guide (360-1) and the elastic member (350). The fourth bulkhead (804b) may be arranged between the elastic member (350) and the second guide member (360-2).

[0103] The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can provide a space (810) surrounding the first guide (360-1). A portion of the first side wall (800a), the second side wall (801a), and the first partition wall (803a) of the first rack gear (330) and a portion of the fourth side wall (800b), the fifth side wall (801b), and the third partition wall (804a) of the second rack gear (340) can surround the first guide (360-1). A portion of the first side wall (800a) of the first rack gear (330), the second side wall (801a), the first partition wall (803a) and a portion of the fourth side wall (800b) of the second rack gear (340), the fifth side wall (801b), and the third partition wall (804a) can define a space in which the first guide (360-1) is accommodated. The space (810) surrounding the first guide (360-1) can be composed of a first partial space (811) and a second partial space (812). For example, a portion of the first side wall (800a) of the first rack gear (330), the second side wall (801a), and the first partition wall (803a) can provide a first partial space (811) that partially surrounds the first guide (360-1). A portion of the fourth side wall (800b), the fifth side wall (801b), and the third bulkhead (804a) of the second rack gear (340) can provide a second partial space (812) that partially surrounds the first guide (360-1).

[0104] The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can provide a space (820) that surrounds the elastic member (350). A portion of the first side wall (800a) of the first rack gear (330), the first bulkhead (803a) and the second bulkhead (803b), and a portion of the fourth side wall (800b) of the second rack gear (340), the third bulkhead (804a) and the fourth bulkhead (804b) can surround the elastic member (350). A portion of the first side wall (800a) of the first rack gear (330), the first bulkhead (803a), the second bulkhead (803b) and a portion of the fourth side wall (800b) of the second rack gear (340), the third bulkhead (804a), and the fourth bulkhead (804b) can define a space in which the elastic member (350) is accommodated. The space (820) surrounding the elastic member (350) can be composed of a third partial space (821) and a fourth partial space (822). For example, a portion of the first side wall (800a) of the first rack gear (330), the first bulkhead (803a) and the second bulkhead (803b) can provide a third partial space (821) that partially surrounds the elastic member (350). A portion of the fourth side wall (800b) of the second rack gear (340), the third bulkhead (804a), and the fourth bulkhead (804b) can provide a fourth partial space (822) that partially surrounds the elastic member (350).

[0105] The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can provide a space (830) surrounding the second guide (360-2). A portion of the first side wall (800a), the third side wall (802a), and the second bulkhead (803b) of the first rack gear (330) and a portion of the fourth side wall (800b), the sixth side wall (802b), and the fourth bulkhead (804b) of the second rack gear (340) can surround the second guide (360-2). A portion of the first side wall (800a), the third side wall (802a), the second bulkhead (803b), and a portion of the fourth side wall (800b) of the second rack gear (340), the sixth side wall (802b), and the fourth bulkhead (804b) can define a space in which the second guide (360-2) is accommodated. The space (830) surrounding the second guide (360-2) can be composed of a fifth partial space (831) and a sixth partial space (832). For example, a portion of the first side wall (800a) of the first rack gear (330), the third side wall (802a), and the second bulkhead (803b) can provide a fifth partial space (831) that partially surrounds the second guide (360-2). A portion of the fourth side wall (800b), the sixth side wall (802b), and the fourth bulkhead (804b) of the second rack gear (340) can provide a sixth partial space (832) that partially surrounds the second guide (360-2).

[0106] The first rack gear (330) may include a first rod (731) and a second rod (732) to be movably coupled with the guide (360). The second rack gear (340) may include a third rod (741) and a fourth rod (742) to be movably coupled with the guide (360). The first guide (360-1) may include a groove (711) having an interior that faces the first frame (431). The first rod (731) of the first rack gear (330) may be accommodated within the groove (711) of the first guide (360-1). The third rod (741) of the second rack gear (340) may be accommodated within the groove (711) of the first guide (360-1). The second guide (360-2) may include a groove (712) having an interior that faces the first frame (431). The second rod (732) of the first rack gear (330) may be accommodated within the groove (712) of the second guide (360-2). The fourth rod (742) of the second rack gear (340) may be accommodated within the groove (712) of the second guide (360-2).

[0107] The first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2) may be formed in a polygonal shape. In order to correspond to the shapes of the rods inserted into the first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2), the first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2) may be symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (137).

[0108] The guides (360-1, 360-2) and the grooves (711, 712) are formed in a polygonal shape so that the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) are configured to restrict movement in a second direction (e.g., x-axis direction or y-axis direction) different from the first direction while moving along the guides (360-1, 360-2) in a first direction (e.g., z-axis direction), and the first guide (360-1) and the second guide (360-2) are formed in a polygonal shape, so that the partition walls (803a, 803b, 804a, 804b) and side walls (800a, 800b, 801a, 801b, 802a, By 802b), the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can move in the z-axis direction, and the movement in the y-axis direction and the x-axis direction can be restricted. The groove (711) of the first guide (360-1) and the groove (712) of the second guide (360-2) are also formed in a polygonal shape, so that the rods (731, 732, 741, 742) and the grooves (711, 712) are engaged, and the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can move in the z-axis direction, and the movement in the y-axis direction and the x-axis direction can be restricted.

[0109] When the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) move in the -z-axis direction, the lower portion of the first rack gear (330) and the lower portion of the second rack gear (340) can contact the first frame (431). For example, the lower portions of the second side wall (801a), the third side wall (802a), the fifth side wall (801b), the sixth side wall (802b), and the partition walls (803a, 803b, 804a, 804b) may have a stopper (890) in the form of a groove that can accommodate a portion of the first frame (431). When the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1A) is in a folded state, a portion of the first frame (431) can contact the stopper (890). The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can be restricted from moving in the -z-axis direction by the contact between the stopper (890) and the first frame (431). As the movement of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) is restricted, the electronic device (101) can be restricted from being excessively folded or the gears (311, 312) can be restricted from being excessively rotated.

[0110] The guides (360-1, 360-2) having the grooves and the outer surface having the polygonal shape described above can move the first rack gear (360-1) and the second rack gear (360-2) in the z-axis direction without being biased to one side. As the first rack gear (360-1) and the second rack gear (360-2) are moved without being biased, the movement distances of the first rack gear (360-1) and the second rack gear (360-2) in the z-axis direction can also be substantially the same.

[0111] FIGS. 9A and 9B are drawings illustrating an exemplary hinge assembly including a dumbbell-shaped guide structure.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the hinge assembly (162) may include a hinge linkage structure (900). The hinge linkage structure (900) may include a first rotating body (310), a second rotating body (320), a first rack gear (930), a second rack gear (940), an elastic member (350), and a guide (960). The hinge linkage structure (900) may be configured such that the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) move simultaneously. As the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) rotate symmetrically about the folding axis (137), the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may rotate while maintaining symmetry about the folding axis (137). The hinge linkage structure (900) can prevent or reduce the flexible display (130) from being twisted according to the symmetrical movement of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0113] Among the hinge linkage structures (900), the configurations of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) may be identical or similar to the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) of FIGS. 3A to 8. The identical or similar contents among the configurations of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) are omitted. The elastic member (350) disposed between the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) can press the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940). The first rotating body (310) and the first rack gear (930) can be brought into close contact by the elastic member (350) that presses the first rack gear (930) to the first rotating body (310). The second rotating body (320) and the second rack gear (940) can be brought into close contact by an elastic member (350) that presses the second rack gear (940) against the second rotating body (320).

[0114] The guide (960) can guide the first rack gear (930) that engages the first gear (311) and the second rack gear (940) that engages the second gear (321) to move along a designated path (e.g., a movement path in the z-axis direction) while the first rotating body (310) rotates around the first axis (a1) and the second rotating body (320) rotates around the second axis (a2). There may be a plurality of guides (960). The first guide (960-1) and the second guide (960-2) can protrude from the first frame (431) in a direction toward the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940). The first guide (960-1) and the second guide (960-2) can be spaced apart from each other. The elastic member (350) may be arranged between the first guide (960-1) and the second guide (960-2). The cross-sections of the guides (960-1, 960-2) may have a shape in which the widths of both ends are wider than the widths of the other parts. The first guide (960-1) and the second guide (960-2) may protrude in a plate shape toward the z-axis direction and may have a columnar shape at the edge portion. The cross-sections of the first guide (960-1) and the second guide (960-2) may have a dumbbell shape. For example, the central portion (1061) of the cross-section of the guide (960) may be thinner than the two end portions (1062, 1063). The two end portions (1062, 1063) may have a cylindrical columnar shape. The thickness of the central portion (1061) may be thinner than the diameter of one end portion (1062) of the cylindrical shape.

[0115] The first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) may have structures (931, 932, 941, 942) that surround the side surfaces of the guide. The structures (931, 932) of the first rack gear (930) and the structures (941, 942) of the second rack gear (940) may correspond to the shape of the guide (960). The structures (931, 932) of the first rack gear (930) may accommodate a portion of the guide (960), and the structures (931, 932) of the second rack gear (940) may accommodate another portion of the guide (960). The structures (931, 932) of the first rack gear (930) and the corresponding structures (941, 942) of the second rack gear (940) may face each other and provide guide-shaped holes capable of accommodating a guide (960). The first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) having structures (931, 932, 941, 942) having shapes corresponding to the guide (960) may move in the z-axis direction along the guide (960). The second rack gear (940) may further include at least one protrusion (943) formed toward the first rack gear (930). The first rack gear (930) may further include a groove (not shown) corresponding to the at least one protrusion (943). The at least one protrusion (943) may protrude from a surface facing the first rack gear (930) toward the first rack gear (930). The groove may be dug from a surface of the first rack gear (930) facing the second rack gear (940). The protrusion (943) may be at least partially inserted into the groove. By engaging the protrusion (943) with the groove, the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) may move together in the z-axis direction.

[0116] Since the guide (960) is formed in a dumbbell shape or a dumbbell shape, even if the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) are pressed by the elastic member (350), the movement of the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) can be restricted. For example, when a force in the x-axis direction is applied to the first rack gear (930) by the elastic member (350), the first rack gear (930) can contact one end (1062) of the guide (960). The first rack gear (930) contacting one end of the guide (960) can be restricted from moving in the x-axis direction. When a force in the -x-axis direction is applied to the second rack gear (940) by the elastic member (350), the second rack gear (940) can contact the other end (1063) of the guide (960). The second rack gear (940) in contact with the other end (1063) of the guide (960) may have its movement in the x-axis direction restricted.

[0117] The structures (931, 932) of the first rack gear (930) and the structures (941, 942) of the second rack gear (940) may be arranged adjacent to the guide (960) in the y-axis direction (or folding axis direction). By the structures and the guide (960) arranged adjacent to each other, the movement of the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) in the y-axis direction may be restricted.

[0118] According to the above-described embodiment, the guide structure (930, 940) of the hinge assembly (162) is configured as a dumbbell-shaped or dumbbell-shaped plate, and can guide the movement of the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940), while restricting the movement of the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) in a direction different from the movement direction. As the first rack gear (930) and the second rack gear (940) move in a designated direction, the torsion between the first housing (e.g., the first housing (110) of FIG. 1A) and the second housing (e.g., the second housing (120) of FIG. 1A) can be reduced. As the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) rotate while maintaining symmetry with each other, damage to the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (130) of FIG. 1A) can be reduced.

[0119] Fig. 10a is a drawing showing an unfolded state of an exemplary hinge assembly. Fig. 10b is a drawing showing a closed state of an exemplary hinge assembly.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 10a and 10b, while the electronic device is changed to an unfolded state (1000a) by the hinge assembly (162), the hinge assembly (162) may further include a structure for limiting the rotation of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320).

[0121] Both sides (1031, 1032) of the hinge cover (165) of the electronic device (101) can come into contact with parts of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320).

[0122] The first rotating body (310) may include a first neck (1010) disposed between the first gear (311) and the first support (312). The second rotating body (320) may include a second neck (1020) disposed between the second gear (321) and the second support (322). The first neck (1010) may be a relatively thin portion of the first rotating body (310). The second neck (1020) may be a relatively thin portion of the second rotating body (320). For example, the portion where the first neck (1010) and the second neck (1020) are disposed may provide a groove in which both sides (1031, 1032) of the hinge cover (165) can be accommodated. By connecting the first neck (1010) to the upper portion of the first gear (311) and the first support portion (312), the first rotating body (310) can provide a groove in which one side (1031) of the hinge cover (165) can be accommodated. By connecting the second neck (1020) to the upper portion of the second gear (321) and the second support portion (322), the second rotating body (320) can provide a groove in which the other side (1032) of the hinge cover (165) can be accommodated.

[0123] While the electronic device is changed to the unfolded state (1000a) by the hinge assembly (162), both sides (1031, 1032) of the hinge cover (165) can come into contact with the first neck (1010) of the first rotating body (310) and the second neck (1020) of the second rotating body (320). While the electronic device is changed to the unfolded state (1000a) by the hinge assembly (162), the first rotating body (310) can rotate clockwise with respect to the first axis (a1). When the first rotating body (310) rotates clockwise and the first neck (1010) comes into contact with one side (1031) of the hinge cover (165), the rotation of the first rotating body (310) can be restricted by the one side (1031) of the hinge cover (165). While the electronic device is changed to the unfolded state (1000a) by the hinge assembly (162), the second rotating body (320) can rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second axis (a2). When the second rotating body (320) rotates counterclockwise and the second neck (1020) comes into contact with the other side (1032) of the hinge cover (165), the rotation of the second rotating body (320) can be restricted by the other side (1032) of the hinge cover (165).

[0124] While the electronic device is changed into a folded state (1000b) by the hinge assembly (162), the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) can rotate. The first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) can be stopped from rotating by the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (1000b), a groove-shaped stopper (890) formed at the lower portion of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can contact the first frame (431). The movement of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) in the -z-axis direction can be restricted by the stopper (890) contacting the first frame (431). Depending on the movement restrictions of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340), the rotation of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) can be restricted.

[0125] According to the above-described embodiment, by limiting the range of movement of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) through the stopper or rotation-limiting structures, the electronic device (101) can change from an unfolded state (1000a) to a folded state (1000b).

[0126] Fig. 11 shows the structure of a stopper for limiting movement of an exemplary hinge assembly in a closed state.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 11, the third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460) of the hinge assembly (162) can be rotatably coupled to the second frame (432). The third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460) can rotate along rails (1132a, 1132b) formed on the second frame (432). The third rotating body (450) can move along the first rail (1132a) and rotate around the third axis (a3). The fourth rotating body (460) can move along the second rail (1132b) and rotate around the fourth axis (a4). While the electronic device (101) changes to a folded state (1000b), the third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460) can rotate to face each other. While the electronic device (101) is changed to a folded state (1000b), the third rotating body (450) can rotate counterclockwise about the third axis (a3), and the fourth rotating body (460) can rotate clockwise about the fourth axis (a4). The third rotating body (450) can include a first stopper (1151) protruding with an end facing the second frame (432), and the fourth rotating body (460) can include a second stopper (1161) protruding with an end facing the second frame (432). In the folded state (1000b) of the electronic device (1010), the first stopper (1151) of the third rotating body (450) can come into contact with a part of the second frame (432). The part can be formed at the end of the first rail (1132a). For example, at the end of the first rail (1132a) of the second frame (432), the part can protrude toward the groove of the first rail (1132a). In the folded state (1000b) of the electronic device (1010), the second stopper (1161) of the fourth rotating body (460) can come into contact with a part of the second frame (432). The part can be formed at the end of the second rail (1132b). For example, at the end of the second rail (1132b) of the second frame (432), the part can be formed at the end of the second rail (1132b). It can protrude towards the home.

[0128] As the first stopper (1151) contacts the end of the first rail (1132a) and the second stopper (1161) contacts the end of the second rail (1132b), the rotation of the third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460) can be restricted. The third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460) can be connected to the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320), respectively, through the first support member (170) (e.g., the first support member (170) of FIG. 1C) and the second support member (180) (e.g., the second support member (180) of FIG. 1C). Depending on the restrictions of the third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460), the rotation of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) can be restricted.

[0129] According to the above-described embodiment, by limiting the range of movement of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) through the stopper or rotation-limiting structures, the electronic device (101) can change from an unfolded state (1000a) to a folded state (1000b).

[0130] FIG. 12 is a plan view of an exemplary hinge assembly including a plate assembled to rack gears. FIG. 13a is a cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state by a hinge assembly including a plate assembled to rack gears. FIG. 13b is a cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in a closed state by a hinge assembly including a plate assembled to rack gears.

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 12, 13a, and 13b, a plate (1261) of a hinge assembly (162) (e.g., the first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), or the third plate (261-3) of FIG. 2) can be disposed on a first rack gear (330) and a second rack gear (340). The plate (1261) can be disposed between a first rotating body (310) and a second rotating body (320). The plate (1261) can be fastened to the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). The plate (1261) fastened to the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can be moved in the z-axis direction by the rotation of the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320). According to one embodiment, the plate (1261) (e.g., the first plate (261-1), the second plate (261-2), or the third plate (261-3) of FIG. 2) may be referred to as a center plate, or center bar.

[0132] In the unfolded state (1000a) of the electronic device (101), the plate (1261) may be arranged parallel to the flexible display (130) and spaced apart from each other. The flexible display (130) may be supported by a first bracket (410) and a first support member (170) connected to a first rotating body (310) and a second bracket (420) and a second support member (180) connected to a second rotating body (320). The flexible display (130) may be bent at the bending portion (130-1) as the electronic device (101) changes from an unfolded state (1000a) to a folded state (1000b). In order to compensate for the difference in the rotational distance between the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) that rotate around the first axis (a1) and the second axis (a2) and the rotational distance between the third rotating body (450) and the fourth rotating body (460) that rotate around the third axis (a3) ​​and the fourth axis (a4), the first bracket (410) can move along the guide groove (1311) of the first rotating body (310), and the second bracket (420) can move along the guide groove (1321) of the second rotating body (320).

[0133] Due to the difference in the rotation angles of the first hinge plate (166) and the second hinge plate (167) connected to the first support member (170) and the second support member (180) connected to the first bracket (410) and the second bracket (420) and the third rotation body (450) and the fourth rotation body (460), the shape of the bending portion (130-1) of the flexible display (130) may have a dumbbell shape within the hinge assembly (162) (or the hinge structure (160)). For example, the gap between the portions facing each other based on the folding axis (137) among the bending portions (130-1) wrapped by the hinge assembly (162) may include a section in which the gap increases from the boundary of the bending portion (130-1) and a section in which the gap decreases. According to one embodiment, the widest gap between the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) may be wider than the gap between the first support member (170) and the second support member (180). Due to the gap difference as described above, the bending portion (130-1) may have a teardrop shape or a dumbbell shape.

[0134] As the shape of the bending portion (130-1) of the flexible display (130) changes, the bending portion (130-1) can move in a direction (-z-axis direction) toward the hinge cover (165). When the bending portion (130-1) sags toward the hinge cover (165), the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) move together with the plate (1261) in the -z-axis direction, so that the gap between the plate (1261) and the bending portion (130-1) can be maintained.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) includes a hinge structure (160) having a linkage structure, so that the first housing (110) (or a component of the first housing (110), a component coupled to the first housing (110)) and the second housing (120) (or a component of the second housing (120), a component coupled to the second housing (120)) can move symmetrically with respect to each other. The flexible display (130) disposed on the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) can be symmetrically folded or unfolded around the folding axis (137) according to the linkage between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). Due to the linkage between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120), damage to the flexible display (130) can be reduced. The hinge structure (160) can reduce the gap or backlash between gears by the close contact between the first gear (311) and the first rack gear (330) and the close contact between the second gear (321) and the second rack gear (340).

[0136] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this document pertains.

[0137] According to the above-described embodiment, a foldable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3B) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (110) of FIG. 3B) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (120) of FIG. 3B). The foldable electronic device may further include a hinge assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly (162) of FIG. 3B) to which the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) are rotatably coupled. The hinge assembly (162) may include a first rotating body (e.g., the first rotating body (310) of FIG. 3B). The first rotating body (310) may include a first gear (311) that rotates about a first axis (a1) and may be connected to the first housing (110). The hinge assembly (162) may further include a second rotating body (e.g., the second rotating body (320) of FIG. 3b). The second rotating body (320) may include a second gear (321) that rotates around a second axis parallel to the first axis (a1) and may be connected to the second housing (120). The hinge assembly (162) may further include a first rack gear (330). The first rack gear (330) (e.g., the first rack gear (330) of FIG. 3b) may mesh with the first gear (311). The hinge assembly (162) may further include a second rack gear (e.g., the second rack gear (340) of FIG. 3b). The second rack gear (340) may mesh with the second gear (321). The hinge assembly (162) may further include an elastic member (e.g., an elastic member (350) of FIG. 3B). The elastic member (350) may be disposed between the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340), and configured to press the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) in a direction toward the first gear (311) and the second gear (321), respectively. The hinge assembly (162) may further include a guide (360).The above guide (360) can guide the movement of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) according to the rotation of the first gear (311) and the second gear (321).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the guide (360) may extend along the movement direction of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340).

[0139] According to one embodiment, the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can be movably coupled to the guide (360).

[0140] According to one embodiment, the first rack gear (330) may include a first structure that accommodates a portion of the guide (360).

[0141] In one embodiment, the second rack gear (340) may include a second structure that accommodates another portion of the guide (360).

[0142] In one embodiment, the first structure, together with the second structure, may wrap around the side of the guide (360).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the cross-section of the guide (360) may have a shape in which the width of both ends is wider than the width of the other portion.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (162) may further include a frame (431) on which the guide (360) is arranged and which supports the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the first rotating body (310) may include a first arm that moves together with the first gear (311) and a first neck that is positioned between the first gear (311) and the first arm.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the second rotor (320) may include a second arm that moves together with the second gear (321) and a second neck that is positioned between the second gear (321) and the second arm.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a hinge cover (165). The hinge cover (165) may surround the hinge assembly (162).

[0148] According to one embodiment, in an unfolded state in which the front surface of the first housing (110) and the front surface of the second housing (120) face the same direction, the first neck may be configured to contact the hinge cover (165) to limit the rotation of the first rotating body (310).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the second neck may be configured to contact the hinge cover (165) to limit rotation of the second rotating body (320).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (162) may further include a third rotating body that is spaced apart from the first rotating body (310) in the direction of the first axis (a1) and is configured to rotate about a third axis that is parallel to the first axis (a1).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (162) may further include a fourth rotating body that is spaced apart from the second rotating body (320) in the direction of the second axis (a2) and is configured to rotate about a fourth axis that is parallel to the second axis (a2).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (162) may further include a frame (431) that supports the first rotating body (310), the second rotating body (320), the third rotating body, and the fourth rotating body, and includes a guide (360) groove that is coupled to allow a portion of the third rotating body and the fourth rotating body to rotate.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the first rotating body (310) and the third rotating body can be coupled to the first housing (110).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the second rotating body (320) and the fourth rotating body can be coupled to the second housing (120).

[0155] According to one embodiment, in a folded state where the front surface of the first housing (110) and the front surface of the second housing (120) face each other, a part of the second rotating body (320) may contact the first stopper of the frame (431) to limit the rotation of the first housing (110).

[0156] According to one embodiment, in a folded state where the front surface of the first housing (110) and the front surface of the second housing (120) face each other, a part of the fourth rotating body may be configured to contact the second stopper of the frame (431) to limit the rotation of the second housing (120).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include a first hinge plate coupled to the first rotating body (310).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include a second hinge plate coupled to the second rotating body (320).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include a plate disposed between the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) and coupled to the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include a flexible display supported by the first hinge plate and the second hinge plate and spaced apart from the plates.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the plate can be moved together with the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) moving along the guide (360).

[0162] According to one embodiment, while the front of the first housing (110) and the front of the second housing (120) are changed to an unfolded state facing the same direction, the bending area of ​​the flexible display disposed on the plate can sag toward the plate.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the plate may be configured to move together with the first rack gear (330) that engages with the first gear (311) and the second rack gear (340) that engages with the second gear (321) to maintain a gap with the bending area of ​​the display.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the guide (360) may include a groove dug from one side of the guide (360) toward the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may include a load inserted into the groove.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the home may be configured to include a polygonal shape so as to restrict movement in a second direction different from the first direction while the first rack gear and the second rack gear move along the guide (360) in the first direction.

[0167] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device (e.g., foldable electronic device (101) of FIG. 3b) may include a first housing (e.g., first housing (110) of FIG. 3b), a second housing (e.g., second housing (120) of FIG. 3b), and a hinge assembly (e.g., hinge assembly (162) of FIG. 3b).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (162) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (162) includes a first gear (311) that rotates around a first axis (a1) and is connected to the first housing (110), a first rotating body (310) that includes a second gear (321) that rotates around a second axis parallel to the first axis (a1) and is connected to the second housing (120), a first rack gear (330) that engages with the first gear (311), a second rack gear (340) that engages with the second gear (321), and is disposed between the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340), and by bringing the first gear (311) and the first rack gear (330) into close contact and bringing the second gear (321) and the second rack gear into close contact, the angle between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) is reduced. It may include an elastic member (350) configured to maintain.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) may be configured to move in a linear manner according to the rotation of the first gear (311) and the second gear (321).

[0171] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include a guide (e.g., guide (360) of FIG. 3b) extending along the movement direction of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340).

[0172] According to one embodiment, the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) can be movably coupled to the guide (360).

[0173] According to one embodiment, the first rack gear (330) may include a first structure that accommodates a portion of the guide (360).

[0174] In one embodiment, the second rack gear (340) may include a second structure that accommodates another portion of the guide (360).

[0175] The cross-section of the above guide (360) may have a shape in which the width of both ends is wider than the width of the other parts.

[0176] The foldable electronic device (101) may further include a hinge cover (165) surrounding the hinge assembly (162).

[0177] The first rotating body (310) may include a first arm that moves together with the first gear (311) and a first neck that is positioned between the first gear (311) and the first arm.

[0178] The second rotating body (320) may include a second arm that moves together with the second gear (321) and a second neck that is positioned between the second gear (321) and the second arm.

[0179] In an unfolded state in which the front surface of the first housing (110) and the front surface of the second housing (120) face the same direction, the first neck may be configured to contact the hinge cover (165) to limit the rotation of the first rotating body (310).

[0180] The second neck may be configured to contact the hinge cover (165) to limit the rotation of the second rotating body (320).

[0181] The hinge assembly (162) may include a third rotating body that is spaced apart from the first rotating body (310) in the direction of the first axis (a1) and configured to rotate about a third axis parallel to the first axis (a1), a fourth rotating body that is spaced apart from the second rotating body (320) in the direction of the second axis (a2) and configured to rotate about a fourth axis parallel to the second axis, and a frame (431) that includes a guide (360) groove that supports the first rotating body (310), the second rotating body (320), the third rotating body, and the fourth rotating body, and is coupled so that a portion of the third rotating body and the fourth rotating body can rotate.

[0182] The first rotating body (310) and the third rotating body can be coupled to the first housing (110).

[0183] The second rotating body (320) and the fourth rotating body can be coupled to the second housing (120).

[0184] According to one embodiment, in a folded state where the front surface of the first housing (110) and the front surface of the second housing (120) face each other, a part of the second rotating body (320) may contact the first stopper of the frame (431) to limit the rotation of the first housing (110).

[0185] According to one embodiment, in a folded state where the front surface of the first housing (110) and the front surface of the second housing (120) face each other, a part of the fourth rotating body may be configured to contact the second stopper of the frame (431) to limit the rotation of the second housing (120).

[0186] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0187] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 14, in a network environment (1400), an electronic device (1401) may communicate with an electronic device (1402) via a first network (1498) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (1404) or a server (1408) via a second network (1499) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (1401) may communicate with the electronic device (1404) via the server (1408). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1401) may include a processor (1420), a memory (1430), an input module (1450), an audio output module (1455), a display module (1460), an audio module (1470), a sensor module (1476), an interface (1477), a connection terminal (1478), a haptic module (1479), a camera module (1480), a power management module (1488), a battery (1489), a communication module (1490), a subscriber identification module (1496), or an antenna module (1497). In some embodiments, the electronic device (1401) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (1478)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (1476), camera module (1480), or antenna module (1497)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (1460)).

[0189] The processor (1420) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (1440)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (1401) connected to the processor (1420) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1420) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (1476) or a communication module (1490)) in a volatile memory (1432), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (1432), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (1434). According to one embodiment, the processor (1420) may include a main processor (1421) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (1423) (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 (1421). For example, when the electronic device (1401) includes the main processor (1421) and the auxiliary processor (1423), the auxiliary processor (1423) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (1421) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (1423) may be implemented separately from the main processor (1421) or as a part thereof.

[0190] The auxiliary processor (1423) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., the display module (1460), the sensor module (1476), or the communication module (1490)) of the electronic device (1401), for example, on behalf of the main processor (1421) while the main processor (1421) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (1421) while the main processor (1421) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1423) (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 (1480) or a communication module (1490)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1423) (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 (1401) where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (1408)). 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.

[0191] The memory (1430) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor (1420) or the sensor module (1476)) of the electronic device (1401). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., the program (1440)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (1430) can include volatile memory (1432) or non-volatile memory (1434).

[0192] The program (1440) may be stored as software in memory (1430) and may include, for example, an operating system (1442), middleware (1444), or an application (1446).

[0193] The input module (1450) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (1401) (e.g., a processor (1420)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1401). The input module (1450) 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).

[0194] The audio output module (1455) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (1401). The audio output module (1455) 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.

[0195] The display module (1460) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1401). The display module (1460) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (1460) 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.

[0196] The audio module (1470) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa. According to one embodiment, the audio module (1470) can acquire sound through the input module (1450), output sound through the sound output module (1455), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1402)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (1401).

[0197] The sensor module (1476) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (1401) 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 (1476) 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.

[0198] The interface (1477) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (1401) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1402)). In one embodiment, the interface (1477) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0199] The connection terminal (1478) may include a connector through which the electronic device (1401) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1402)). In one embodiment, the connection terminal (1478) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0200] The haptic module (1479) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (1479) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0201] The camera module (1480) can capture still images and videos. In one embodiment, the camera module (1480) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0202] The power management module (1488) can manage the power supplied to the electronic device (1401). According to one embodiment, the power management module (1488) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0203] A battery (1489) may power at least one component of the electronic device (1401). In one embodiment, the battery (1489) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0204] The communication module (1490) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (1401) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1402), electronic device (1404), or server (1408)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1490) may operate independently from the processor (1420) (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 (1490) may include a wireless communication module (1492) (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 (1494) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with an external electronic device (1404) via a first network (1498) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (1499) (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 local area network or a wide area network)). These various types of communication modules may 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 (1492) may use subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (1496) to verify or authenticate the electronic device (1401) within a communication network such as the first network (1498) or the second network (1499).

[0205] The wireless communication module (1492) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimizing terminal power and connecting multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency communications (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (1492) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (1492) may support various technologies for securing performance in high-frequency bands, 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 (1492) may support various requirements specified in the electronic device (1401), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1404)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (1499)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (1492) may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB implementation, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC implementation, 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 implementation.

[0206] The antenna module (1497) 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 (1497) 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 (1497) 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 (1498) or the second network (1499), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (1490). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (1490) and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (1497).

[0207] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (1497) 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.

[0208] 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)).

[0209] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (1401) and an external electronic device (1404) via a server (1408) connected to a second network (1499). Each of the external electronic devices (1402 or 1404) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (1401). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (1401) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (1402, 1404, or 1408). For example, when the electronic device (1401) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (1401) 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 (1401). The electronic device (1401) 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 (1401) may provide an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (1404) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (1408) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (1404) or server (1408) may be included within the second network (1499). The electronic device (1401) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart homes, smart cities, smart cars, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0210] 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.

[0211] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0212] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0213] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (1440)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (1436) or an external memory (1438)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (1401)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (1420)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (1401)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0214] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0215] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device (101), First housing (110); Second housing (120); and It includes a hinge assembly (162) in which the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) are rotatably coupled; The above hinge assembly (162) is A first rotating body (310) including a first gear (311) that rotates around a first axis (a1) and is connected to the first housing (110); A second rotating body (320) including a second gear (321) that rotates around a second axis parallel to the first axis (a1) and is connected to the second housing (120); A first rack gear (330) meshing with the first gear (311); A second rack gear (340) meshing with the second gear (321); An elastic member (350) arranged between the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) and configured to press the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) in a direction toward the first gear (311) and the second gear (321), respectively; and A guide (360) that guides the movement of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) according to the rotation of the first gear (311) and the second gear (321); Foldable electronic device (101).

2. In paragraph 1, The above guide (360) is, Extending along the movement direction of the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340), The first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) are movably coupled to the guide (360). Foldable electronic device (101).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above first rack gear (330) is A first structure and a part thereof accommodating a portion of the above guide (360), The above second rack gear (340) is A second structure comprising another part of the above guide (360), Foldable electronic device (101).

4. In paragraph 3, The above first structure is, Together with the above second structure, wrapping the side of the guide (360), Foldable electronic device (101).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The cross section of the above guide (360) A shape in which the width of each end is wider than that of the other end. Foldable electronic device (101).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above hinge assembly (162) is The above guide (360) is arranged and further includes a frame (431) supporting the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340). Foldable electronic device (101).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The first rotating body (310) includes a first arm that moves together with the first gear (311) and a first neck that is arranged between the first gear (311) and the first arm. The second rotating body (320) includes a second arm that moves together with the second gear (321) and a second neck that is arranged between the second gear (321) and the second arm. Foldable electronic device (101).

8. In paragraph 7, It further includes a hinge cover (165) that surrounds the above hinge assembly (162), In an unfolded state where the front of the first housing (110) and the front of the second housing (120) face the same direction, the first neck is configured to contact the hinge cover (165) to limit the rotation of the first rotating body (310). The second neck is configured to contact the hinge cover (165) and limit the rotation of the second rotating body (320). Foldable electronic device (101).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above hinge assembly (162) is A third rotating body (310) spaced apart from the first rotating body (310) in the direction of the first axis (a1) and configured to rotate around a third axis parallel to the first axis (a1); A fourth rotating body (320) configured to rotate about a fourth axis parallel to the second axis and spaced apart from the second rotating body in the second axis direction; and It includes a frame (431) that supports the first rotating body (310), the second rotating body (320), the third rotating body and the fourth rotating body, and includes a guide (360) groove that is coupled so that a part of the third rotating body and the fourth rotating body can rotate. The first rotating body (310) and the third rotating body are coupled to the first housing (110), The second rotating body (320) and the fourth rotating body are coupled to the second housing (120). Foldable electronic device (101).

10. In paragraph 9, In a folded state where the front of the first housing (110) and the front of the second housing (120) face each other, A part of the second rotating body (320) contacts the first stopper of the frame (431) to limit the rotation of the first housing (110), A part of the fourth rotating body is configured to contact the second stopper of the frame (431) and limit the rotation of the second housing (120). Foldable electronic device (101).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, A first hinge plate coupled to the first rotating body (310); A second hinge plate coupled to the second rotating body (320); A plate (1261) disposed between the first rotating body (310) and the second rotating body (320) and coupled to the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340); and Further comprising a flexible display supported by the first hinge plate and the second hinge plate and spaced apart from the plates, Foldable electronic device (101).

12. In paragraph 11, The above plate, Moved together with the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340) moving along the above guide (360), Foldable electronic device (101).

13. In paragraph 11 or 12, While the front of the first housing (110) and the front of the second housing (120) are changed to an unfolded state facing the same direction, the bending area of ​​the flexible display placed on the plate sags toward the plate, The above plate, It is configured to move together with the first rack gear (330) that meshes with the first gear (311) and the second rack gear (340) that meshes with the second gear (321), so as to maintain a gap from the bending area of ​​the display. Foldable electronic device (101).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above guide (360) is, Including a groove dug from one side of the guide (360) toward the first rack gear (330) and the second rack gear (340), The above first rack gear (330) and the above second rack gear (340) are, Including a load inserted into the above home, Foldable electronic device (101).

15. In paragraph 14, The above home, By including a polygonal shape, it is configured to restrict movement in a second direction different from the first direction while moving along the guide (360) of the first rack gear and the second rack gear in the first direction. Foldable electronic device (101).

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