Foldable electronic device comprising foldable housing

Abstract

An electronic device according to an embodiment comprises: a foldable housing including first, second, and third housing parts; a flexible display; a sub-display opposite to the flexible display; a first camera module disposed in the first housing part; a first printed circuit board; at least one processor; and a key button module including at least one key button disposed on a sidewall of the first housing part. In a folded state of the foldable electronic device, the front surface of the third housing part faces the front surface of the second housing part, and the front surface of the first housing part faces the rear surface of the second housing part.

Description

Foldable electronic device including a foldable housing

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

[0002] An electronic device may include a foldable housing and a flexible display to provide an enhanced user experience. The foldable housing may include a plurality of housing parts. The foldable housing may have a structure in which the plurality of housing parts can be folded or unfolded one or more times. For example, the foldable housing may include three housing parts that are rotatably coupled via two hinges. The flexible display may be at least partially deformable based on the operation of the foldable housing.

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

[0004] A foldable electronic device is provided. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing. The foldable housing may include a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly rotatably connecting the second housing part to the third housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a second hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part to the third housing part and having a wider width than the first hinge assembly. The foldable electronic device may include a first display that extends across the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a second display disposed within the third housing part and opposite the first display. The foldable electronic device may include a first camera module disposed within a rear surface of the first housing part and including an image processing circuit. The foldable electronic device may include a key button module including a processing circuit and at least one key button. The at least one key button may be disposed on a side wall of the first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a first printed circuit board disposed within the first housing part. A folded state of the foldable electronic device may be a state in which a front side of the third housing part faces a front side of the second housing part and a front side of the first housing part faces a rear side of the second housing part.

[0005] A foldable electronic device is provided. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing. The foldable housing may include a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly rotatably connecting the second housing part to the third housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a second hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part to the first housing part and having a wider width than the first hinge assembly. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display disposed within the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a sub-display disposed within the third housing part and opposite the flexible display. The foldable electronic device may include a decoration partially exposed through the rear surface of the first housing part and a first camera module disposed within the first housing part. The foldable electronic device may include at least one processor disposed within the first housing part and operatively coupled with the flexible display, the sub-display, and the first camera module. The foldable electronic device may include a first battery disposed within the first housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a second battery disposed within the second housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a third battery disposed within the third housing part. A third size of the third battery may be larger than a first size of the first battery and smaller than a second size of the second battery.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 2A illustrates a first state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 2b illustrates a third state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 3A is a plan view of a foldable electronic device in a first state according to one embodiment, omitting a flexible display.

[0010] FIG. 3b is a rear view of a foldable electronic device with the rear cover and sub-display removed when the foldable electronic device is in a first state according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a process of changing a state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 5A is a rear perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the third state.

[0013] FIG. 5b is a front perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the third state.

[0014] FIG. 6A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to a comparative example of a first state in a usage environment.

[0015] FIG. 6b illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of a first state within a use environment.

[0016] FIG. 7A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment, in a first state.

[0017] FIG. 7b illustrates a foldable electronic device according to a comparative example, within a first state.

[0018] FIG. 8A illustrates a state in which a key button of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment is used within a first state.

[0019] FIG. 8b illustrates a state in which a key button of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment is used within a third state.

[0020] FIG. 9A illustrates printed circuit boards of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 9b illustrates printed circuit boards of a foldable electronic device according to a comparative example.

[0022] FIG. 10A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment including an antenna.

[0023] Fig. 10b is a cross-sectional view of the first housing part of Fig. 10a taken along line A-A'.

[0024] FIG. 11A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state.

[0025] FIG. 11B illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment in a second state.

[0026] FIG. 11C illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment in a free stop state.

[0027] FIG. 12 illustrates a rear view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 13 illustrates batteries of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0031] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0032] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0033] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0034] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0035] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0036] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0037] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0038] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0039] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0040] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0041] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0042] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0043] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0044] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0045] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0046] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0047] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0048] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0049] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent 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.

[0050] 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)).

[0051] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0052] Within the present disclosure, rotation may be referred to as a folding or unfolding motion of a foldable housing (e.g., the foldable housing (201) of FIG. 2A). For example, "one component is rotated relative to another component" may refer to an motion in which one component is folded or unfolded relative to the other component.

[0053] FIG. 2A illustrates a first state of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2B illustrates a third state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 2A, a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a foldable housing (201), a first hinge assembly (240), a second hinge assembly (250), and a flexible display (260) (e.g., a first display, a main display).

[0055] In one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may be deformable. For example, the foldable housing (201) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230) that are rotatably coupled. The third housing part (230) may be disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). One side of the third housing part (230) may be rotatably coupled with one side of the first housing part (210). The other side of the third housing part (230) may be rotatably coupled with one side of the second housing part (220). The foldable housing (201) may be referred to as a multi-foldable housing in terms of including the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) that are rotatably coupled. Within the present disclosure, the foldable housing (201) is described as having a structure including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230), but is not limited thereto. For example, the foldable housing (201) may include four or more housing parts. The state of the foldable electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 2A is a state in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) are fully unfolded, and within the present disclosure, this state may be referred to as a first state.

[0056] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device (101) may include hinge assemblies (240, 250) for providing various states of a foldable housing (201). For example, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (240) and a second hinge assembly (250). The first hinge assembly (240) may rotatably connect a second housing part (220) to a third housing part (230). The first hinge assembly (240) may be disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The second hinge assembly (250) may rotatably connect the first housing part (210) to the third housing part (230). The second hinge assembly (250) can be positioned between the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may have a structure that can be folded twice by a first hinge assembly (240) and a second hinge assembly (250). The first hinge assembly (240) and the second hinge assembly (250) may include components (e.g., interlocking gears) for providing a folding or unfolding operation of the foldable housing (201).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may be disposed within the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230). The flexible display (260) may be configured to display visual information.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (260) may include a first planar region (261), a second planar region (262), and a third planar region (263). For example, the first planar region (261) may be a portion of the flexible display (260) that is disposed within the first housing part (210) in an unfolded state. For example, the second planar region (262) may be a portion of the flexible display (260) that is disposed within the second housing part (220) in an unfolded state. For example, the third planar region (263) may be a portion of the flexible display (260) that is disposed within the third housing part (230) in an unfolded state. The first planar region (261), the second planar region (262), and the third planar region (263) may be distinguished to provide visual information displayed on the flexible display (260) in various ways. For example, visual information provided on the display portion of the flexible display (260) may be independently provided according to the first planar region (261), the second planar region (262), and the third planar region (263). For example, the flexible display (260) may be controlled so that the first planar region (261), the second planar region (262), and the third planar region (263) cooperatively provide one visual information. For example, the flexible display (260) may be controlled so that the first planar region (261), the second planar region (262), and the third planar region (263) each provide different visual information. For example, two of the first planar region (261), the second planar region (262), and the third planar region (263) may be controlled to provide one visual information, and the remaining one may be controlled to provide different visual information.

[0060] According to one embodiment, when the foldable housing (201) is folded or unfolded, a portion of the flexible display (260) may also be folded or unfolded. The flexible display (260) may include a first bending region (264) between the second flat region (262) and the third flat region (263) and a second bending region (265) between the first flat region (261) and the third flat region (263). In the state of the foldable electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 2A, the first bending region (264) and the second bending region (265) may form substantially the same plane as the first flat region (261), the second flat region (262), and the third flat region (263).

[0061] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a first camera module (271) (e.g., a first camera device, a first camera assembly) disposed within a foldable housing (201). For example, the first camera module (271) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) so as to face the opposite side of the flexible display (260).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a key button module (280). For example, the key button module (280) may be exposed from an edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) opposite the second hinge assembly (250). For example, the key button module (280) may include at least one key button and a processing circuit disposed on a side wall forming the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210). The at least one key button may be exposed to the edge portion (211). By exposing the at least one key button of the key button module (280) to the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210), a user may push the at least one key button of the key button module (280). When the at least one key button is pressed, the processing circuit of the key button module (280) may generate a signal corresponding to the pressed at least one key button. The above signal can be provided to a main processor (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1).

[0063] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a connector hole (290). The connector hole (290) may be formed within a lower edge portion (e.g., an edge portion in the -y direction) of the first housing part (210). The connector hole (290) may be coupled with a terminal of an external electronic device. For example, a terminal of a charging device or a terminal of an audio device (e.g., earphones) may be coupled to the connector hole (290) to be electrically connected to the foldable electronic device (101).

[0064] A foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a second camera module (272) (e.g., a second camera device, a second camera assembly). The second camera module (272) may face in a direction opposite to that of the first camera module (271). The second camera module (272) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) and overlap with the first planar area (261). The first planar area (261) may include a through hole (e.g., the through hole (261a) of FIG. 11A) for the second camera module (272). The second camera module (272) may collect light reflected from a subject through the through hole (261a).

[0065] Referring to FIG. 2B, within a fully folded state of the foldable electronic device (101), the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) may overlap each other. For example, within a fully folded state, the second housing part (220) may be positioned between the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230). The state of the foldable electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 2B, in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) are fully folded, may be referred to as a third state within the present disclosure.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the second hinge assembly (250) may have a wider width than the first hinge assembly (240). Referring to FIG. 2B, when the foldable electronic device is in a fully folded state, the second housing part (220) may be positioned between the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230). The second hinge assembly (250) may have a wider width than the first hinge assembly (240) in order to provide a space in which the second housing part (220) may be positioned between the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230).

[0067] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device (101) may include a sub-display (266) (e.g., a second display, a cover display). For example, the sub-display (266) may be arranged to face the rear of the third housing part (230). The sub-display (266) may be opposite the third flat area (263) of the flexible display (260). When the foldable electronic device (101) is completely folded, the flexible display (260) may be covered by the foldable housing (201) and thus may not be visible from the outside. The sub-display (266) may be configured to be exposed to the outside and display visual information when the foldable electronic device (101) is completely folded. The sub-display (266) may be configured to provide text, images, and / or videos when the foldable electronic device (101) is completely folded.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a third camera module (273) (e.g., a third camera device, a third camera assembly). The third camera module (273) may be disposed within the third housing part (230) to overlap with the sub-display (266) (e.g., a second display, a cover display). The third camera module (273) may be disposed to correspond to the direction in which the sub-display (266) faces. The third camera module (273) may be disposed to face the opposite direction to the first camera module (271). For example, the first camera module (271) may be disposed to face the front of the foldable housing (201), and the third camera module (273) may be disposed to face the rear of the foldable housing (201). The sub-display (266) may include a through hole (267) that overlaps the third camera module (273). The third camera module (273) may collect light reflected from a subject through the through hole (267).

[0069] The foldable electronic device (101) can change from the fully unfolded state of the foldable electronic device illustrated in FIG. 2A to the fully folded state of the foldable electronic device illustrated in FIG. 2B. According to one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (240) and the second hinge assembly (250) can enable the change from the fully unfolded state to the fully folded state, and from the fully folded state to the fully unfolded state. The process of changing the state of the foldable electronic device (101) will be described later with reference to FIG. 4A.

[0070] FIG. 3A is a plan view of a foldable electronic device in a first configuration according to one embodiment, with the flexible display omitted. FIG. 3B is a rear view of a foldable electronic device in a first configuration according to one embodiment, with the back cover and sub-display removed.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 3A, a second hinge assembly (250) of a foldable electronic device (101) may include at least one first hinge plate (311a), at least one second hinge plate (311b), sets of a plurality of hinge gears (313a, 313b), and a support plate (315). At least one first hinge plate (311a) of the second hinge assembly (250) may be coupled to a first support portion (212) of a first housing part (210). The first support portion (212) may support electronic components disposed within the first housing part (210). At least one second hinge plate (311b) of the second hinge assembly (250) may be coupled to a third support portion (232) of a third housing part (230). The third support portion (232) can support electronic components arranged within the third housing part (230). Each set of the first hinge gear sets (313a, 313b) can rotatably connect the first support portion (212) and the third support portion (232). The support plate (315) of the second hinge assembly (250) can support a portion of the second bending area (265) of the flexible display (260).

[0072] A first hinge assembly (240) of a foldable electronic device (101) may include at least one third hinge plate (321a), at least one fourth hinge plate (321b), and sets of a plurality of hinge gears (323a, 323b). At least one third hinge plate (321a) of the first hinge assembly (240) may be coupled to a third support portion (232) of a third housing part (230). At least one fourth hinge plate (321b) of the first hinge assembly (240) may be coupled to a second support portion (222) of a second housing part (220). The third support portion (232) may support electronic components disposed within the second housing part (220). Each set of the second hinge gears (323a, 323b) can rotatably connect the third support part (232) and the second support part (222).

[0073] The second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (250) may be wider than the first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (240). The difference between the second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (250) and the first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (240) may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the second housing part (220). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, the second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (250) may be formed wider than the first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (240) so that the second housing part (220) can be placed between the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230).

[0074] The foldable electronic device (101) may further include waterproof members (330a, 330b, 330c). The waterproof members (330a, 330b, 330c) may be attached to each of the support parts (212, 222, 232) of the housing parts (210, 220, 230) and the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (260) of FIG. 2A) to reduce moisture or foreign substances from entering from the outside from entering the inside of the foldable electronic device (101). The waterproof members (330a, 330b, 330c) may include a waterproof tape, a waterproof adhesive, a double-sided tape, or an adhesive.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 3b, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include a first printed circuit board (351), a third printed circuit board (353), a second printed circuit board (352), and a plurality of sub-printed circuit boards (355).

[0076] A first printed circuit board (351) may be disposed within a first housing part (210). The first printed circuit board (351) may be in contact with another surface of a first support portion (e.g., the first support portion (212) of FIG. 3A) of the first housing part (210). A plurality of electronic components for driving the foldable electronic device (101) may be disposed on the first printed circuit board (351). The plurality of electronic components may include a main processor including a processing circuit (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1), at least one memory including a storage medium, a wireless communication circuit for performing wireless communication with an external electronic device, a first camera module (271), and a second camera module (272). The first camera module (271) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear surface of the first housing part (210).

[0077] The second printed circuit board (352) may be disposed within the second housing part (220). The second printed circuit board (352) may be in contact with the other surface of the second support portion (e.g., the second support portion (222) of FIG. 3A) of the second housing part (220). A plurality of electronic components may be disposed on the second printed circuit board (352). The plurality of electronic components disposed on the second printed circuit board (352) may include components that assist the plurality of electronic components disposed on the first printed circuit board (351) and / or the third printed circuit board (353) or may operate independently. The second printed circuit board (352) may be electrically connected to a first display driving circuit (e.g., the first display driving circuit (921) of FIG. 9A) for driving a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (260) of FIG. 2A).

[0078] A third printed circuit board (353) may be disposed within the third housing part (230). The third printed circuit board (353) may be in contact with another surface of a third support portion (e.g., the third support portion (232) of FIG. 3A) of the third housing part (230). A plurality of electronic components may be disposed on the third printed circuit board (353). The plurality of electronic components disposed on the third printed circuit board (353) may include components that assist the plurality of electronic components disposed on the first printed circuit board (351) or may operate independently. The plurality of electronic components disposed on the third printed circuit board (353) may include a speaker and / or a third camera module (273). The third printed circuit board (353) may be electrically connected to a second display driving circuit (e.g., the second display driving circuit (922) of FIG. 9a) for driving a sub-display (e.g., the sub-display (266) of FIG. 2b).

[0079] The first sub-printed circuit board (355a) can be in contact with the other surface of the first support portion (212) of the first housing part (210). A plurality of electronic components can be arranged on the first sub-printed circuit board (355a). The plurality of electronic components arranged on the first sub-printed circuit board (355a) can assist the plurality of electronic components arranged on the first printed circuit board (351). A speaker can be arranged on the first sub-printed circuit board (355a). The first sub-printed circuit board (355a) can be connected to a connector hole (290) configured to be electrically connected to an external electronic device. Power or data can be transmitted and received from the external electronic device through the connector hole (290).

[0080] The second sub-printed circuit board (355b) may be in contact with the other surface of the second support portion (222) of the second housing part (220). A plurality of electronic components may be arranged on the second sub-printed circuit board (355b). The plurality of electronic components arranged on the second sub-printed circuit board (355b) may assist the plurality of electronic components arranged on the second printed circuit board (352). A speaker may be arranged on the second sub-printed circuit board (355b). The plurality of speakers arranged on the first sub-printed circuit board (355a), the third printed circuit board (353), and the second sub-printed circuit board (355b) may be configured to provide audio information from the foldable electronic device (101). The printed circuit boards or sub-printed circuit boards on which the plurality of speakers are arranged are exemplary and may be arranged at different locations. Some of the plurality of sub-printed circuit boards (355) may be omitted depending on the arrangement of electronic components, or other sub-printed circuit boards other than the plurality of sub-printed circuit boards (355) may be added.

[0081] The third sub-printed circuit board (355c) can be in contact with the other side of the third support portion (232) of the third housing part (230). A plurality of electronic components can be arranged on the third sub-printed circuit board (355c). The plurality of electronic components arranged on the third sub-printed circuit board (355c) can assist the plurality of electronic components arranged on the third printed circuit board (353).

[0082] The foldable electronic device (101) may further include a plurality of batteries (361, 362, 363). Each of the plurality of batteries (361, 362, 363) may be coupled to support parts (212, 222, 232) within the housing parts (210, 220, 230) of the foldable electronic device (101). The plurality of batteries (361, 362, 363) may be rechargeable secondary batteries.

[0083] The foldable electronic device (101) may further include an antenna module (358) for ultra-high frequency signals and an antenna (359) for NFC. The antenna module (358) and the antenna (359) may be placed within the first housing part (210). The antenna (359) may overlap with the first battery (361).

[0084] The foldable electronic device (101) may include a flexible printed circuit board (370). The flexible printed circuit board (370) may electrically connect a first printed circuit board (351) to a second printed circuit board (352) and a third printed circuit board (353). A main processor (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1) disposed on the first printed circuit board (351) may provide signals to electronic components electrically connected to the second printed circuit board (352) and electronic components electrically connected to the third printed circuit board (353) using the flexible printed circuit board (370).

[0085] The foldable electronic device (101) described below may correspond to the foldable electronic device (101) described with reference to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B. Identical components may be given the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions may be briefly described or omitted.

[0086] Within the present disclosure, relative terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," and "back" may be used. It should be understood that these relative terms are not limited to the directions depicted in the drawings and are intended to encompass other directions. For example, if the foldable electronic device (101) depicted in the drawings is flipped over, "top" and "bottom" may be interchanged, and "front" and "back" may be interchanged.

[0087] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a process of changing a state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B , a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). As described above, the third housing part (230) may be disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220).

[0089] In one embodiment, the second housing part (220) can be rotatably connected to one side of the third housing part (230). The first hinge assembly (240) can rotatably connect the second housing part (220) to the third housing part (230).

[0090] In one embodiment, the first housing part (210) can be rotatably connected to the other side of the third housing part (230). The second hinge assembly (250) can rotatably connect the first housing part (210) to the third housing part (230). As described above, the second hinge assembly (250) can have a wider width than the first hinge assembly (240).

[0091] A foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may be configured to provide a plurality of states based on the operation of the first hinge assembly (240) and the operation of the second hinge assembly (250). A first state (400a) of FIG. 4A represents a state in which the foldable electronic device (101) is fully unfolded. Within the first state (400a), the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) may be arranged substantially parallel. Within the first state (400a), the front surface of the first housing part (210), the front surface of the second housing part (220), and the front surface of the third housing part (230) may face substantially the same direction. The first state (400a) may be referred to as an open state, a flat state, an unfolded state, and / or an outspread state from the perspective that the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) are fully unfolded.

[0092] The second state (400b) of FIG. 4a may be provided by, within the first state (400a), the second housing part (220) being rotated in a first rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) relative to the third housing part (230). The second housing part (220) may be rotated relative to the third housing part (230) via the first hinge assembly (240). As the second housing part (220) is rotated in the first rotational direction within the first state (400a), the front side of the third housing part (230) may face the front side of the second housing part (220). The second state (400b) may be referred to as a semi-fold state, a sub-unfolded state, a sub-folded state, an intermediate state, and / or a concave state from the perspective that a portion of the foldable housing (201) is folded.

[0093] The third state (400c) of FIG. 4a may be provided by, within the second state (400b), rotating the first housing part (210) in a second rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction with respect to the third housing part (230). The first housing part (210) may be rotated with respect to the third housing part (230) via the second hinge assembly (250). Within the second state (400b), as the first housing part (210) is rotated in the second rotational direction, the front side of the first housing part (210) may face the rear side of the second housing part (220). The third state (400c) may be referred to as a closed state or a folded state from the perspective that the foldable housing (201) is completely folded.

[0094] Within the third state (400c), the second housing part (220) can be positioned between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). When the foldable electronic device (101) in the third state (400c) is viewed from above, the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) can overlap each other.

[0095] A foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a first camera module (271). There may be a plurality of first camera modules (271). The first camera modules (271) may be arranged to face the rear of the first housing part (210). The first camera module (271) may include a camera (271a) and a deco (271b). The camera (271a) may be configured to collect light reflected from a subject and generate an image and / or video based on the reflected light. The deco (271b) may be partially exposed through the rear of the first housing part (210). The deco (271b) may be referred to as a camera deco member or a camera island.

[0096] A foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a flexible display (260). The flexible display (260) may be disposed within a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). The flexible display (260) may include a first planar area (261), a second planar area (262), and a third planar area (263). The flexible display (260) may include a first bending area (264) between the second planar area (262) and the third planar area (263), and a second bending area (265) between the first planar area (261) and the third planar area (263).

[0097] The foldable electronic device (101) can be used in a first state (400a) to utilize a large-screen flexible display (260). The foldable electronic device (101) can be transitioned from the first state (400a) to a third state (400c) so that it can be easily carried by a user. For example, the foldable electronic device (101) can transition from the first state to the second state and then to the third state.

[0098] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device (101) may include a sub-display (266). The sub-display (266) may be disposed within the third housing part (230) and may be opposite the flexible display (260). For example, the sub-display (266) may be opposite the third flat area (263) of the flexible display (260). Referring to FIG. 4B, the sub-display (266) may be visible from the outside within the third state (400c). Since the flexible display (260) cannot be visible from the outside within the third state (400c), the foldable electronic device (101) may be configured to provide visual information through the sub-display (266) within the third state (400c). For example, within the third state (400c), when an event related to the foldable electronic device (101) occurs (e.g., an incoming call occurs), the foldable electronic device (101) may be configured to display visual information indicating the event through the sub-display (266).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may be used in a second state (400b). In the second state (400b), the foldable electronic device (101) may be configured to display visual information indicating an event through the third planar area (263) of the flexible display (260) when an event related to the foldable electronic device (101) occurs. In the first state (400a), since the entire area of ​​the flexible display (260) is exposed to the outside, the foldable electronic device (101) may be configured to display the visual information through the flexible display (260).

[0100] A foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a key button module (280). The key button module (280) may be exposed through an edge portion (211) of a first housing part (210). For example, at least one key button of the key button module (280) may be disposed on a side wall (e.g., edge portion (211)) of the first housing part (210) forming the edge portion (211). The edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) through which the key button module (280) is exposed may be opposite to the second hinge assembly (250).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may include a first printed circuit board (e.g., the first printed circuit board (351) of FIG. 9A) and a main processor (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1) disposed on the first printed circuit board (351). The main processor (121) may be configured to control the overall operation of the foldable electronic device (101). The function or operation of the foldable electronic device (101) may be processed by the main processor (121).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the main processor (121) may be configured to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (101). The main processor (121) may be configured to select a display on which to display visual information using an artificial intelligence model, depending on the identified state of the foldable electronic device (101). For example, within a first state (400a), the main processor (121) may be configured to display visual information over the entire area of ​​the flexible display (260) using the artificial intelligence model. Within a second state (400b), the main processor (121) may be configured to display visual information over a third planar area (263) of the flexible display (260) using the artificial intelligence model. Within a third state (400c), the main processor (121) may be configured to display visual information over a sub-display (266) using the artificial intelligence model.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the main processor (121) may control the form of visual information differently depending on the display on which the visual information is displayed. For example, when visual information is displayed through the entire area of ​​the flexible display (260), the main processor (121) may provide first visual information including relatively many images or texts using a generative artificial intelligence model. When visual information is displayed through the third planar area (263) of the flexible display (260), the main processor (121) may provide second visual information including fewer (or smaller) images or texts than the first visual information using a generative artificial intelligence model. When visual information is displayed through the sub-display (266), the main processor (121) may provide third visual information including fewer (or smaller) images or texts than the second visual information using a generative artificial intelligence model.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 4A, a user may hold a portion of the first hinge assembly (240) to fold or unfold the foldable electronic device (101). For example, to change the foldable electronic device (101) from the third state (400c) to the second state (400b), the user may hold the first hinge assembly (240) and rotate the first housing part (210). Since the user may hold a portion of the first hinge assembly (240) when folding or unfolding the foldable electronic device (101), the outer surface of the first hinge assembly (240) may have a material and / or structure that can assist the user's grip. For example, grooves (240a) may be formed on the outer surface of the first hinge assembly (240). Alternatively, small convex-concave portions (240b) may be formed on the outer surface of the first hinge assembly (240) to provide a rough surface. The grooves (240a) and / or the convex-concave portions (240b) may provide frictional force when the user's hand comes into contact with the first hinge assembly (240), thereby helping the user to easily hold the foldable electronic device (101). The grooves (240a) and the convex-concave portions (240b) are merely examples of materials and / or structures of the first hinge assembly (240) to assist the user's grip, and are not limited thereto.

[0105] The foldable housing (201) including three housing parts may have a structure other than the structure illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B . The foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may provide various advantages by having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B . Hereinafter, various advantages of the foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B will be described.

[0106] FIG. 5A is a rear perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of a third state. FIG. 5B is a front perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of a third state. FIG. 6A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to a comparative example of a first state in a use environment. FIG. 6B illustrates a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of a first state in a use environment.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 5A, as described above, the first camera module (271) may be positioned within the first housing part (210). The first camera module (271) may be partially exposed through the rear surface of the first housing part (210). For example, the decoration (271b) of the first camera module (271) may protrude from the rear surface of the first housing part (210).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) is arranged to face the rear side of the first housing part (210), thereby being able to capture an object located in the rear direction. For example, the first camera module (271) may be arranged within the rear side of the first housing part (210). The second camera module (e.g., the second camera module (272) of FIG. 5B), which will be described later, is arranged in a direction opposite to the direction of the first camera module (271), thereby being able to capture an object located in the front direction opposite to the rear direction. The first camera module (271) may include an image processing circuit configured to generate an image.

[0109] In order for the first camera module (271) to be used in the first state or the third state of the foldable electronic device (101), the first camera module (271) must be included in the first housing part (210) or the third housing part (230) among the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230). For example, when the first camera module (271) is included in the second housing part (220), since the second housing part (220) is positioned between the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) in the third state, the first camera module (271) may not be exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (101).

[0110] For example, when the first camera module (271) is included in the third housing part (230) among the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230), the first camera module (271) may be exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (101) in the third state. When the first camera module (271) is included in the third housing part (230), the first camera module (271) will be arranged to face the rear side of the third housing part (230). Referring to FIG. 5B, since the sub-display (266) is arranged to face the rear side of the third housing part (230), when the first camera module (e.g., the first camera module (271) of FIG. 5A) is included in the third housing part (230), the sub-display (266) and the first camera module (271) may overlap. In this case, the size of the display area of ​​the sub-display (266) may be reduced because the sub-display (266) must be reduced to the area where the first camera module (271) is located.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 6A, a foldable electronic device (600) according to a comparative example is illustrated, in which a first camera module (271) is included within a third housing part (230). A decoration (271b) of the first camera module (271) may be partially exposed through the rear surface of the third housing part (230). The decoration (271b) may protrude from the rear surface of the third housing part (230).

[0112] Referring to FIG. 6A, the foldable electronic device (600) can be used while placed on a floor (610) in a first state. For example, the foldable electronic device (600) in the first state can be used while placed on a desk. The user can provide user input through the flexible display (260). When the user's finger touches the flexible display (260), a designated operation of the foldable electronic device (600) can be performed in response to the touch input.

[0113] In the case of the foldable electronic device (600) according to the comparative example, since the first camera module (271) is included in the third housing part (230) located in the center of the foldable housing (201) and the first camera module (271) protrudes from the rear of the third housing part (230), the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) can be spaced apart from the bottom (610). Since the protruding first camera module (271) is located substantially in the center of the foldable housing (201), the first housing part (210) or the third housing part (230) can float above the bottom (610) without tilting. Since the third housing part (230) is positioned between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), the distance at which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are spaced apart from the floor (610) may be substantially the same as the length at which the first camera module (271) protrudes from the rear surface of the third housing part (230). Since the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are spaced apart from the floor (610) and are floating, the foldable electronic device (600) may tilt left and right according to a user's touch input.

[0114] For example, as shown in 601 of FIG. 6A, when a user presses the first housing part (210), the first housing part (210) may tilt downward. When the first housing part (210) tilts downward, the second housing part (220) located on the opposite side of the first housing part (210) may tilt upward. Conversely, as shown in 602 of FIG. 6A, when a user presses the second housing part (220), the second housing part (220) may tilt downward. When the second housing part (220) tilts downward, the third housing part (230) located on the opposite side of the second housing part (220) may tilt upward. Since the distance between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) from the floor (610) is relatively far due to the first camera module (271), the degree to which the foldable housing (201) tilts can be relatively large. As the performance of the first camera module (271) increases, the size of the first camera module (271) increases, and when the thickness of the foldable housing (201) becomes thinner to enhance portability, the length by which the first camera module (271) protrudes toward the rear of the foldable housing (201) can increase. As the protruding length increases, the angle at which the foldable housing (201) tilts increases, which may reduce usability.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 6B, a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a first camera module (271) included in a first housing part (210) connected to a second hinge assembly (250). The first camera module (271) may protrude from the rear surface of the first housing part (210). Unlike the third housing part (230), the first housing part (210) is not located in the center of the foldable housing (201). Therefore, even if the first camera module (271) protrudes from the rear surface of the first housing part (210), the tilting of the foldable housing (201) may be alleviated. For example, in a first state, when the foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment is placed on a floor (610), the first housing part (210) may be spaced apart from the floor (610) by the first camera module (271). Unlike the case where the first camera module (271) protrudes from the rear of the third housing part (230), since the first camera module (271) is positioned close to the edge of the foldable housing (201), the second housing part (220) can come into contact with the floor (610) by gravity.

[0116] According to one embodiment, even if the foldable electronic device (101) is used while being placed on the floor (610) within the first state, the foldable housing (201) may not tilt. For example, as in 603 of FIG. 6B , even if the user presses the third housing part (230), the first housing part (210) supported by the first camera module (271) in contact with the floor (610) is supported by the floor (610), and thus the foldable housing (201) may not tilt. As in 604 of FIG. 6B , even if the user presses the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220) in contact with the floor (610) is supported by the floor (610), and thus the foldable housing (201) may not tilt. Even if the length of the first camera module (271) protruding from the rear of the first housing part (210) increases, the foldable housing (201) placed on the floor (610) in the first state can be supported by the floor (610), so that tilting, such as in the foldable electronic device (600) according to the comparative example, can be resolved. The foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment can be stably used in a state placed on the floor (610) by including the first camera module (271) in the first housing part (210).

[0117] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may be plural. For example, the first camera module (271) may include a periscope-shaped folded camera that refracts light to acquire an image. The folded camera refracts light using a prism, and the refracted light can pass through a lens and sensor arranged in one direction.

[0118] In the first state of the foldable electronic device (101), since the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) overlap, each of the housing parts (210, 220, 230) may have a relatively thin thickness. The refractive camera may have a relatively thick thickness because it is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the foldable housing (201) so that the lens faces the rear of the foldable housing (201). In the case of the third housing part (230), since the flexible display (260) and the sub-display (266) are arranged therein, the thickness for accommodating the refractive camera may be insufficient. As described above, since the rear of the second housing part (220) is not exposed to the outside in the third state, the first camera cannot be arranged within the second housing part (220). The first camera module (271) can be placed within the first housing part (210) that can secure a relatively thick thickness.

[0119] FIG. 7A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment in a first state. FIG. 7B illustrates a foldable electronic device according to a comparative example in a first state.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may be positioned within the first housing part (210) to minimize or reduce the tilt. When the rear surface of the first housing part (210) is virtually divided into four parts, the upper right area is assumed to be the first quadrant (701), the upper left area is assumed to be the second quadrant (702), the lower left area is assumed to be the third quadrant (703), and the lower right area is assumed to be the fourth quadrant (704). According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may be positioned within the second quadrant (702).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may be positioned closer to an edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) than to the second hinge assembly (250) within the first housing part (210). The edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) may be opposite to the first hinge assembly (240). By positioning the first camera module (271) closer to the edge portion (211), the aforementioned tilting may be resolved.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 7B, a foldable electronic device (700) according to a comparative example is illustrated, in which the first camera module (271) is positioned closer to the second hinge assembly (250) than the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) within the first housing part (210). When the first camera module (271) is positioned closer to the second hinge assembly (250) than the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) within the first housing part (210), tilting may occur even if the first camera module (271) is included within the first housing part (210). The first camera module (271) being positioned closer to the second hinge assembly (250) may mean that the first camera module (271) is positioned within the first quadrant (701) or the fourth quadrant (704). When the foldable electronic device (700) according to the comparative example of the first state is placed on the floor (720), the foldable housing (201) may be separated from the floor (720) by the first camera module (271). As the foldable housing (201) is separated from the floor (720), the aforementioned tilting may occur.

[0123] Referring again to FIG. 7A, in a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) is positioned close to the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210), so that when the foldable electronic device (101) in the first state is placed on the floor (720), the foldable housing (201) can be supported by the floor (720). The foldable housing (201) supported by the floor (720) can resolve the aforementioned tilting.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may be positioned closer to the upper edge portion (213) among the upper edge portion (213) and the lower edge portion (214) within the first housing part (210). For example, if the first camera module (271) is positioned closer to the lower edge portion (214) among the upper edge portion (213) and the lower edge portion (214) within the first housing part (210), the first camera module (271) may be obscured by the user's hand. Typically, when a user takes an image or video using the first camera module (271), the user may hold and use the lower portion of the foldable housing (201). If the first camera module (271) is positioned closer to the lower edge portion (214), the first camera module (271) may be at least partially obscured by the user's hand, thereby reducing the usability of the first camera module (271). According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may be positioned close to the upper edge portion (213) so as to be away from the user's hand. Consequently, the foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include the first camera module (271) positioned within the second quadrant (702) of the first housing part (210).

[0125] FIG. 8A illustrates a state in which a key button of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment is used within a first state. FIG. 8B illustrates a state in which a key button of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment is used within a third state.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 8A, a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a key button module (280) exposed from an edge portion (211) of a first housing part (210). The key button module (280) may be used to receive a user input. For example, the foldable electronic device (101) may be in an inactive state. The inactive state may be referred to as a turn-off state in which a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) of the foldable electronic device (101) has stopped providing power and requires booting to transition to an active state. The inactive state may be referred to as an idle state, a standby state, or a low power state. A user may press at least one key button of the key button module (280) to transition the foldable electronic device (101) from the inactive state to the active state. The main processor (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1) may be configured to switch the foldable electronic device (101) from an inactive state to an active state based on identifying a user input to the key button module (280). For example, as the foldable electronic device (101) switches from an inactive state to an active state, the sub-display (266) may be configured to display visual information. In addition, the key button module (280) may be used to receive a designated user input. For example, the key button module (280) may be used to receive a user input for adjusting the volume of an audio signal output from a speaker.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the key button module (280) may be used to identify a designated user of the foldable electronic device (101). For example, the key button module (280) may be used to recognize a fingerprint of the user. When the user touches at least one key button of the key button module (280) with a finger, the key button module (280) may provide data representing a pattern of the fingerprint to the main processor (121). The main processor (121) may be configured to identify whether a first pattern of a fingerprint identified through the data corresponds to a second pattern of a fingerprint registered in the memory. For example, the main processor (121) may be configured to identify whether a first pattern of a fingerprint identified through the key button module (280) corresponds to a second pattern of a fingerprint registered in the memory. The main processor (121) may be configured to perform an operation (e.g., unlocking) that allows use of the foldable electronic device (101) based on identifying the first pattern corresponding to the second pattern.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the key button module (280) may be exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (101) so as to receive a user input within the first state and the third state of the foldable electronic device (101). In order for the key button module (280) to be exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (101) within the first state and the third state of the foldable electronic device (101), the key button module (280) may be exposed from an edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210). For example, at least one key button of the key button module (280) may be disposed on a side wall of the first housing part (210) forming the edge portion (211). If the key button module (280) is placed within the second housing part (220) and exposed to the edge portion (221) of the second housing part (220), the key button module (280) cannot be used within the third state because it is not exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (101).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) can be exposed in the same direction within the first state and the third state by being exposed through the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210). The key button module (280) can be positioned in the same direction within the first state and the third state of the foldable electronic device (101) by being exposed through the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) connected to the second hinge assembly (250). As illustrated in FIG. 8A, the key button module (280) exposed through the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) can be positioned on the right side (e.g., in the +x direction) of the foldable electronic device (101).

[0130] Referring to FIG. 8B, a foldable electronic device (101) in a third state is illustrated. The foldable electronic device (101) in the third state can be used to display the sub-display (266). To view visual information provided through the sub-display (266), a user can use the foldable electronic device (101) in a posture in which the sub-display (266) faces the +z direction. When the foldable electronic device (101) has the above posture, the key button module (280) can be positioned on the right side (e.g., in the +x direction) of the foldable electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the key button module (280) is disposed within the first housing part (210) connected to the second hinge assembly (250) and is exposed from an edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210), so that it can be positioned in the same direction (e.g., +x direction) of the foldable electronic device (101) within the first state and the third state of the foldable electronic device (101). Since the position of the key button module (280) does not change depending on the state of the foldable electronic device (101) but is maintained in the same direction, usability can be improved.

[0131] FIG. 9A illustrates printed circuit boards of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 9B illustrates printed circuit boards of a foldable electronic device according to a comparative example.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 9A, a foldable electronic device (101) may include a first printed circuit board (351), a second printed circuit board (352), and a third printed circuit board (353). The first printed circuit board (351), the second printed circuit board (352), and the third printed circuit board (353) may include a plurality of conductive layers and a plurality of non-conductive layers alternately laminated with the plurality of conductive layers. The first printed circuit board (351), the second printed circuit board (352), and the third printed circuit board (353) may provide electrical connections between electronic components disposed on each of the first printed circuit board (351), the second printed circuit board (352), and the third printed circuit board (353) by using wires and conductive vias formed on the conductive layers.

[0133] According to one embodiment, a first printed circuit board (351) may be disposed within a first housing part (210). The first printed circuit board (351) may provide electrical connections between electronic components that are electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (351). A second printed circuit board (352) may be disposed within a second housing part (220). The second printed circuit board (352) may provide electrical connections between electronic components that are electrically connected to the second printed circuit board (352). A third printed circuit board (353) may be disposed within a third housing part (230). The third printed circuit board (353) may provide electrical connections between electronic components that are electrically connected to the third printed circuit board (353).

[0134] Since the first printed circuit board (351), the second printed circuit board (352), and the third printed circuit board (353) are spaced apart from each other, a connecting member for electrically connecting the first printed circuit board (351), the second printed circuit board (352), and the third printed circuit board (353) may be required. The foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a flexible printed circuit board (370) that electrically connects the first printed circuit board (351), the second printed circuit board (352), and the third printed circuit board (353). The flexible printed circuit board (370) may include a first connector (901) connected to the first printed circuit board (351), a second connector (902) connected to the second printed circuit board (352), and a third connector (903) connected to the third printed circuit board (353).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (370) may be configured to electrically connect the first printed circuit board (351) to each of the second printed circuit board (352) and the third printed circuit board (353). The flexible printed circuit board (370) may be configured to provide a signal provided from the first printed circuit board (351) to the second printed circuit board (352) or the third printed circuit board (353). For example, the flexible printed circuit board (370) may include a first portion (911) electrically connecting the first printed circuit board (351) and the second printed circuit board (352), and a second portion (912) electrically connecting the first printed circuit board (351) and the third printed circuit board (353). A signal transmitted between the first printed circuit board (351) and the second printed circuit board (352) may be transmitted through the first portion (911). A signal transmitted between the first printed circuit board (351) and the third printed circuit board (353) can be transmitted through the second portion (912). When the flexible printed circuit board (370) includes one layer, the first portion (911) and the second portion (912) can be placed on one layer. When the flexible printed circuit board (370) includes multiple layers, the first portion (911) and the second portion (912) can be placed on the same layer or can be placed on different layers, respectively.

[0136] According to one embodiment, a main processor (e.g., a main processor (121) of FIG. 1) may be disposed on a first printed circuit board (351). The main processor (121) may be operatively connected to a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (260) of FIG. 2A), a sub-display (e.g., a sub-display (266) of FIG. 2B), and a first camera module (e.g., a first camera module (271) of FIG. 1). The main processor (121) being operatively connected to the flexible display (260), the sub-display (266), and the first camera module (271) may mean that the main processor (121) is directly connected to the flexible display (260), the sub-display (266), and the first camera module (271), or indirectly connected through another component, so that a control signal provided from the main processor (121) can be provided to the flexible display (260), the sub-display (266), and the first camera module (271).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the main processor (121) may be placed on the first printed circuit board (351) so as to be placed close to the first camera module (271).

[0138] For example, the first camera may use C-PHY or D-PHY, which are physical layer interfaces of MIPI (mobile industry processor interface) for communication, when transmitting and / or receiving data with the main processor (121). As the performance (e.g., resolution) of the first camera module (271) increases, the communication performance required for image data or video data transmitted from the first camera module (271) to the main processor (121) may also increase. For the communication performance, the data transmission speed of C-PHY and the data transmission speed of D-PHY increase, and thus, high-resolution data can be transmitted at high speed. When the transmission speed is high, data loss may increase, and therefore, if the distance between the main processor (121) and the first camera module (271) increases, high-resolution data transmission may be difficult.

[0139] When the main processor (121) is disposed on the second printed circuit board (352) in the second housing part (220) or the third printed circuit board (353) in the third housing part (230), high-resolution data transmitted from the first camera module (271) disposed in the first housing part (210) to the main processor (121) must be transmitted through the flexible printed circuit board (370). When data is transmitted through the flexible printed circuit board (370), channel loss increases, making high-speed transmission difficult, and thus, it may be difficult to provide high-resolution data to the main processor (121). According to one embodiment, in order to transmit high-resolution data, the main processor (121) must be disposed close to the first camera module (271), and therefore, the main processor (121) may be disposed in the first housing part (210) where the first camera module (271) is disposed.

[0140] A foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a first display driving circuit (921) configured to control a flexible display (260). The first display driving circuit (921) may be disposed within a second housing part (220).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the first display driving circuit (921) may be electrically connected to a rear panel (931) of the flexible display (260). The rear panel (931) may be disposed within the second housing part (220) by being bent from the front panel to the edge of the second housing part (220) toward the interior of the second housing part (220). The first display driving circuit (921) may be electrically connected to the rear panel (931) that extends into the second housing part (220). Since the first display driving circuit (921) is disposed on the rear panel (931), this structure may be referred to as a chip on plastic (COP) structure. The first display driving circuit (921) may be electrically connected to a second printed circuit board (352) disposed within the second housing part (220). In the case of the first housing part (210), since the first camera module (271) is placed inside, there may be insufficient space for the COP structure to be placed, so the first display driving circuit (921) may be placed inside the second housing part (220).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the main processor (121) may be electrically connected to the first display driving circuit (921). For example, the main processor (121) may be electrically connected to the first display driving circuit (921) through the first printed circuit board (351), the second portion (912) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), and the second printed circuit board (352). The main processor (121) may transmit a signal for controlling the flexible display (260) to the first display driving circuit (921) through the first printed circuit board (351), the second portion (912) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), and the second printed circuit board (352). The first display driving circuit (921) may be configured to control the flexible display (260) based on the signal received from the main processor (121).

[0143] According to one embodiment, since the flexible printed circuit board (370) directly connects the first printed circuit board (351) and the second printed circuit board (352), loss of a signal transmitted from the main processor (121) to the first display driving circuit (921) can be reduced. A signal provided from the main processor (121) can be transmitted from the first printed circuit board (351) to the third printed circuit board (353) through the second portion (912) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), and provided to the first display driving circuit (921) through the third printed circuit board (353).

[0144] For example, a foldable electronic device (900) according to a comparative example illustrated in FIG. 9B may include a first flexible printed circuit board (941) electrically connecting a first printed circuit board (351) and a third printed circuit board (353) and a second flexible printed circuit board (942) electrically connecting the third printed circuit board (353) and the second printed circuit board (352). The first flexible printed circuit board (941) may include a first connector (951) connected to the first printed circuit board (351) and a second connector (952) connected to the third printed circuit board (353). The second flexible printed circuit board (942) may include a third connector (953) connected to the third printed circuit board (353) and a fourth connector (954) connected to the second printed circuit board (352).

[0145] In a foldable electronic device (900) according to a comparative example, when a signal is transmitted from a first printed circuit board (351) to a second printed circuit board (352), the signal may be transmitted to a third printed circuit board (353) through the first printed circuit board (351) and the first flexible printed circuit board (941). The signal transmitted to the third printed circuit board (353) may be transmitted to the second printed circuit board (352) through the second flexible printed circuit board (942). For example, when the main processor (121) transmits a signal to the first display driving circuit (921) to control the flexible display (260), the signal may be transmitted to the first display driving circuit (921) through the first printed circuit board (351), the first flexible printed circuit board (941), the third printed circuit board (353), the second flexible printed circuit board (942), and the second printed circuit board (352).

[0146] A first path of a signal transmitted from a main processor (121) to a first display driving circuit (921) in a foldable electronic device (101) according to an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9A may be different from a second path of a signal transmitted from a main processor (121) to a first display driving circuit (921) in a foldable electronic device (900) according to a comparative example illustrated in FIG. 9B. The following [Table 1] shows the first path and the second path.

[0147] First path First printed circuit board (351) - First connector (901) - Flexible printed circuit board (370) - Third connector (903) - Second printed circuit board (352) - First display driving circuit (921)Second path First printed circuit board (351) - First connector (951) - First flexible printed circuit board (941) - Second connector (952) - Second printed circuit board (352) - Third connector (953) - Second flexible printed circuit board (942) - Fourth connector (954) - Second printed circuit board (352) - First display driving circuit (921)

[0148] Referring to [Table 1], since the first path is shorter than the second path, in the case of the foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment, the structure for electrical connection between the first printed circuit board (351) and the second printed circuit board (352) can be simplified, and the wiring length can be reduced. In the case of the foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment, since the number of connectors can be reduced, the number of electronic components arranged on the printed circuit boards (351, 352, 353) can be increased, and since the internal space of the foldable housing (201) can be secured, the size of the batteries (e.g., the plurality of batteries (360) of FIG. 13) can be increased. As the size of the battery increases, the charging capacity of the battery can increase, and therefore, in the case of the foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment, the charging capacity can be increased.

[0149] Referring back to FIG. 9A, a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a second display driving circuit (922) configured to control a sub-display (266). Since the sub-display (e.g., the sub-display (266) of FIG. 2B) is disposed within the third housing part (230), the second display driving circuit (922) may be disposed within the third housing part (230). For example, the sub-display (266) may include a rear panel extending from a lower edge of the third housing part (230) into the interior of the third housing part (230), and the second display driving circuit (922) may be electrically connected to the rear panel. The second display driving circuit (922) may be electrically connected to a third printed circuit board (353) within the third housing part (230) via another flexible printed circuit board (961) (e.g., the second flexible printed circuit board). In one embodiment, the thickness of the first flexible printed circuit board (370) may be thicker than the thickness of the other flexible printed circuit board (961) (e.g., the second flexible printed circuit board). In one embodiment, the first flexible printed circuit board (370) may include more conductive layers than the other flexible printed circuit board (961) (e.g., the second flexible printed circuit board).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the main processor (121) may be configured to transmit a signal for controlling the cover display to the second display driving circuit (922). The main processor (121) may transmit the signal for controlling the cover display to the second display driving circuit (922) through the first printed circuit board (351), the first portion (911) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), the third printed circuit board (353), and the other flexible printed circuit board (961). The second display driving circuit (922) may be configured to control the sub-display (266) based on the signal received from the main processor (121).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may include a connector hole (290) to which a terminal of an external electronic device may be coupled. For example, a terminal of a charging device may be inserted into the connector hole (290). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a first sub-printed circuit board (355a) disposed within the first housing part (210) and electrically connected to the first printed circuit board. The first sub-printed circuit board (355a) may be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (351) via a connection structure (962) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board, a coaxial cable, etc.). The first sub-printed circuit board (355a) may include a receptacle (355b) positioned to correspond to the connector hole (290) of the first housing part (210). When a terminal of an external electronic device is inserted into a connector hole (290), the terminal can be coupled to a receptacle (355b) corresponding to the connector hole (290). For example, when a terminal of a charging device is inserted into the connector hole (290) and coupled to a receptacle (355b), power provided from the charging device can be provided to a power management circuit disposed on a first printed circuit board (351) through a first sub-printed circuit board (355a) that is electrically connected to a first sub-printed circuit board (355a) that includes the receptacle (355b). The power provided from the charging device can be distributed to batteries by the power management circuit and charge the batteries. When the connector hole (290) is positioned in the second housing part (220) or the third housing part (230) rather than the first housing part (210), the length of the connection structure (962) for transmitting the power provided through the connector hole (290) to the first printed circuit board (351) may be increased. As the length of the connection structure (962) increases, power loss may increase, and the space for accommodating the connection structure (962) may increase.According to one embodiment, as the connector hole (290) is formed in the first housing part (210) in which the first printed circuit board (351) is arranged, the length of the connection structure (962) can be reduced. Since the length of the connection structure (962) is reduced, power loss can be reduced, and the space for accommodating the connection structure (962) can be reduced.

[0152] FIG. 10A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment including an antenna. FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the first housing part of FIG. 10A taken along line A-A'.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 10A, a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include an antenna (359) for near field communication (NFC). The antenna (359) may include a conductive pattern arranged to form a plurality of loops. The antenna (359) may be referred to as a loop antenna or a coil antenna.

[0154] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device (101) can perform an NFC operation using an antenna (359). For example, at least one processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) can transmit a payment signal including payment information using the antenna (359). The foldable electronic device (101) can generate a magnetic signal corresponding to the payment signal and transmit the generated magnetic signal to an external electronic device (e.g., POS device). When the magnetic signal is detected by the external electronic device, magnetic card information corresponding to the payment information can be read (swiped) by a reader of the external electronic device, and the payment information can be transmitted to an external server (e.g., payment server). The external server can perform payment processing based on the payment information.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the antenna (359) may be disposed within the first housing part (210). When the antenna (359) is disposed within the third housing part (230), in the third state, transmission and / or reception of signals through the antenna (359) may be difficult because the third housing part (230) is covered by the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). When the antenna (359) is disposed within the second housing part (220), the antenna (359) may overlap with the sub-display (266) disposed within the second housing part (220). Since the antenna (359) has a relatively large area, it may be disposed close to the rear surface of the foldable housing (201). When the antenna (359) is placed within the second housing part (220), since the sub-display (266) and the antenna (359) are adjacent to each other, the radiation performance of the antenna (359) may be deteriorated by the conductive material within the sub-display (266). The conductive material may deteriorate the radiation performance of the antenna (359) by shielding the electromagnetic field formed by the antenna (359) or interfering with the electromagnetic field. Due to the above conditions, the antenna (359) may be placed within the first housing part (210) among the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230).

[0156] Referring to FIG. 10A, the foldable housing (201) may include conductive portions defining an upper edge. For example, the conductive portions may include a first conductive portion (1010) forming at least a portion of an upper edge of a first housing part (210), a second conductive portion (1020) forming at least a portion of an upper edge of a second housing part (220), and / or a third conductive portion (1030) forming at least a portion of an upper edge of a third housing part (230). At least one of the conductive portions may act as a radiator for communicating with an external electronic device. When a signal provided from the main processor (121) is fed to a feeding point of one of the conductive portions (1010, 1020, 1030), the signal may be radiated to the outside of the foldable electronic device (101) through the conductive portions. A signal transmitted by an external electronic device can be received via the conductive portions and provided to at least one processor.

[0157] According to one embodiment, at least one of the conductive portions can be electrically connected to the antenna (359) (e.g., an NFC antenna) and can act as a part of the antenna (359). At least one of the conductive portions can be electrically connected to the antenna (359) via the flexible printed circuit board (370) of FIG. 9A. A user may bring the rear surface of the first housing part (210) close to an external electronic device for NFC, or may bring at least one of the conductive portions close to the external electronic device. For example, if the second conductive portion (1020) (or the third conductive portion (1030)) is electrically connected to the antenna (359) and acts as a part of the antenna (359), and if the second conductive portion (1020) (or the third conductive portion (1030)) is adjacent to an external electronic device, the second conductive portion (1020) (or the third conductive portion (1030)) can transmit and / or receive a signal for NFC.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 10B, the antenna (359) may at least partially overlap with the first battery (361) disposed within the first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 10A). According to one embodiment, the antenna (359) may be disposed between the rear surface (1011) of the first housing part (210) and the first battery (361). The first battery (361) may be supported by the first support portion (212). The rear surface (1011) of the first housing part (210) may be opposite to the first flat area (261) of the flexible display (260) corresponding to the first housing part (210). If the first battery (361) is placed between the antenna (359) and the rear surface (1011), the signal radiated from the antenna (359) may be blocked by the first battery (361) and may be difficult to transmit to an external electronic device. When the foldable electronic device (101) is in the third state, the antenna (359) is placed closer to the rear surface (1011) than the first battery (361), so that the signal radiated from the antenna (359) may be transmitted to an external electronic device through the rear surface (1011).

[0159] FIG. 11A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment in a first state. FIG. 11B illustrates a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment in a second state. FIG. 11C illustrates a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment in a free stop state.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 11A, a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a second camera module (e.g., the second camera module (272) of FIG. 3B). The second camera module (272) may be opposite to the first camera module (e.g., the first camera module (271) of FIG. 2A). For example, the direction in which the second camera module (272) faces and the direction in which the first camera module (271) faces may be opposite to each other. The first camera module (271) may be referred to as a rear camera, and the second camera module (272) may be referred to as a front camera. The first camera module (271) may capture images of the rear of the foldable electronic device (101), and the second camera module (272) may capture images of the front of the foldable electronic device (101).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the second camera module (272) may be disposed within the first housing part (210). As described above, the first camera module (271) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) so as to face the rear of the first housing part (210). The second camera module (272) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) so as to face the front of the first housing part (210) in order to capture a direction in which the flexible display (260) is facing when the flexible display (260) is in use.

[0162] As illustrated in FIG. 11A, when the foldable electronic device (101) is in the first state, the second camera module (272) can capture images or videos in the opposite direction to the first camera module (271), even if it is positioned in the second housing part (220) or the third housing part (230), rather than the first housing part (210). For example, when the second state and the third state of the foldable electronic device (101) are not taken into consideration, the second camera module (272) can be positioned in the second housing part (220) or the third housing part (230), rather than the first housing part (210).

[0163] Referring to FIG. 11B, the foldable electronic device (101) may be used in a second state. In the second state, the second housing part (220) may overlap with the third housing part (230). When the second camera module (272) is placed in the second housing part (220) or the third housing part (230), the second camera module (272) is covered in the second state, and thus cannot be used. In order to use the second camera module (272) in the second state, the second camera module (272) may be placed in the first housing part (210).

[0164] Referring to FIG. 11C, the foldable electronic device (101) can be used within a free stop state. The free stop state may be referred to as a state in which a portion of the foldable housing (201) is maintained in a folded state by the first hinge assembly (240) or the second hinge assembly (250) providing torque. The free stop state may also be referred to as a flex state. Referring to the first free stop state (1101) of FIG. 11C, the first free stop state (1101) may be referred to as a state in which the second housing part (220) is maintained in a partially rotated state with respect to the third housing part (230). Within the first free stop state (1101), the second housing part (220) may be placed on the floor, and the third housing part (230) and the first housing part (210) may maintain a certain angle (A) with respect to the floor. Referring to the second free stop state (1102) of FIG. 11C, the second free stop state (1102) may be referred to as a state in which the first housing part (210) maintains a partially rotated state with respect to the third housing part (230). Within the second free stop state (1102), the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) may be placed on the floor, and the first housing part (210) may maintain a certain angle (B) with respect to the floor. In addition to this, various free stop states may be possible.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 11C, when the second camera module (272) is disposed within the second housing part (220), in the first free stop state (1101), the second camera module (272) faces the ceiling (e.g., faces the +z direction), so it may be difficult to photograph the front of the foldable electronic device (101). When the second camera module (272) is disposed within the second housing part (220) or the third housing part (230), in the second free stop state (1102), the second camera module (272) faces the ceiling, so it may be difficult to photograph the front of the foldable electronic device (101). Although not illustrated in FIG. 11c, as described with reference to FIG. 9a, since the first display driving circuit (921) for the flexible display (260) is disposed within the second housing part (220), there may be insufficient space to place the second camera module (272) within the second housing part (220). In a free stop state, the second camera module (272) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) so that the first camera module (271) can capture the front of the foldable electronic device (101).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) at a position close to the center of the upper edge portion (213) of the first housing part (210). The second camera module (272) may collect light reflected from a subject through a through hole (261a) penetrating the flexible display (260). Since the portion of the flexible display (260) where the through hole (261a) is formed cannot display visual information, the portion may be formed close to the edge of the flexible display (260). Since the second camera module (272) cannot be disposed within the space where the first hinge assembly (240) and the second hinge assembly (250) are disposed, it may be difficult to dispose it adjacent to the first hinge assembly (240) and the second hinge assembly (250). When the first camera module (271) is positioned close to the side edge portion (e.g., edge portion (211)) of the first housing part (210), the second camera module (272) may be covered by the user's hand pressing the key button module (280). In the first housing part (210), a position close to the second hinge assembly (250) may not have enough space to position the second camera module (272) due to the second hinge assembly (250). According to one embodiment, the second camera module (272) may be positioned close to the center of the upper edge portion (213) of the first housing part (210) within the first housing part (210).

[0167] Referring back to FIG. 5B, the foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a third camera module (273). The third camera module (273) may overlap with the sub-display (266). For example, the third camera module (273) may be placed within the third housing part (230) in the direction that the sub-display (266) faces. Since the third camera module (273) is placed within the third housing part (230), there may be insufficient space to place the second camera module (272) within the third housing part (230). As described above, considering the placement space and usage conditions, the second camera module (272) may be placed within the first housing part (210).

[0168] FIG. 12 illustrates a rear view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 12, a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of speakers. The plurality of speakers may be configured to emit audio signals based on a signal received from at least one processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the plurality of speakers may include a first speaker (1211), a second speaker (1212), and a third speaker (1213). The first speaker (1211) may be positioned within the first housing part (210). The second speaker (1212) may be positioned within the second housing part (220). The third speaker (1213) may be positioned within the third housing part (230).

[0171] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a receiver hole (1220) for making a phone call. The receiver hole (1220) may be implemented in the form of a notch formed on the rear surface of the third housing part (230). When a user makes a phone call using the foldable electronic device (101) in the third configuration, the foldable electronic device (101) may be used in a position in which the sub-display (266) faces the user's ear. In order for the call sound to be transmitted to the user, the receiver hole (1220) may be formed on the rear surface of the third housing part (230) to correspond to the direction in which the sub-display (266) faces. For example, the receiver hole (1220) may be adjacent to the upper edge (233) of the third housing part (230).

[0172] According to one embodiment, the third speaker (1213) disposed within the third housing part (230) may be disposed adjacent to the upper edge (233) of the third housing part (230) within the third housing part (230). Since the speaker hole is adjacent to the upper edge (233) of the third housing part (230), the third speaker (1213) may be disposed adjacent to the upper edge (233) so that a call sound emitted from the third speaker (1213) can be easily transmitted to the user.

[0173] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the first speaker (1211) may be positioned adjacent to the lower edge portion (214) of the first housing part (210), and the second speaker (1212) may be positioned adjacent to the lower edge portion (223) of the second housing part (220). However, the positions of the first speaker (1211) and the second speaker (1212) illustrated in FIG. 12 are merely exemplary, and the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0174] A foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include at least one antenna module (358). The at least one antenna module (358) may be referred to as a millimeter wave (mmWave) module including a substrate and a plurality of patch antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on the substrate. The at least one antenna module (358) may transmit and / or receive signals in an ultra-high frequency band having a wavelength in the order of millimeters. The plurality of patch antennas may form a directional beam to transmit and / or receive signals in the ultra-high frequency band.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the main processor (121) disposed on the first printed circuit board (351) may be configured to communicate with an external electronic device using at least one antenna module (358). The at least one antenna module (358) may be electrically connected to the main processor (121) disposed on the first printed circuit board (351) within the first housing part (210).

[0176] For example, the main processor (121) may generate a baseband signal. The baseband signal may be up-converted into a signal of a specified frequency band through a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC). The up-converted signal may be filtered through an RFFE (RF front end) module and radiated to the outside of the electronic device through at least one antenna module (358). For example, a signal received from an external electronic device through at least one antenna module (358) may be pre-processed through the RFFE. The RFIC may down-convert the pre-processed radio signal into a baseband signal so that it may be processed by the main processor (121). The down-converted signal may be provided to the main processor (121) disposed on the first printed circuit board (351).

[0177] According to one embodiment, at least one antenna module (358) may be disposed within the first housing part (210). As described above, since the at least one antenna module (358) is electrically connected to the main processor (121) disposed on the first printed circuit board (351), when the at least one antenna module (358) is disposed within the second housing part (220) or the third housing part (230), signal loss between the main processor (121) and the at least one antenna module (358) may increase, and a structure for electrical connection may be required. The at least one antenna module (358) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) to reduce signal loss and a structure for electrical connection. At least one antenna module (358) disposed within the first housing part (210) can be positioned close to the first printed circuit board (351), so that electrical connection between the at least one antenna module (358) and the main processor (121) can be facilitated.

[0178] According to one embodiment, at least one antenna module (358) may include, but is not limited to, a first antenna module (358a) and / or a second antenna module (358b). The first antenna module (358a) may be configured to radiate RF signals toward the rear of the first housing part (210) by being arranged to face the rear of the first housing part (210). The second antenna module (358b) may be configured to radiate RF signals toward the edge portion (211) of the first housing part (210) by being arranged to face the edge portion (211).

[0179] FIG. 13 illustrates batteries of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 13, a foldable electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of batteries (360). The plurality of batteries (360) may include a first battery (361) disposed within a first housing part (210), a second battery (362) disposed within a second housing part (220), and a third battery (363) disposed within a third housing part (230).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the sizes and thicknesses of the first battery (361), the second battery (362), and the third battery (363) may be different from each other. In the case of the first housing part (210), since a relatively large number of electronic components are arranged therein, the space for accommodating the first battery (361) may be relatively small. In the case of the second housing part (220), since a relatively small number of electronic components are arranged therein, the space for accommodating the second battery (362) may be relatively large. Since the size and thickness of the battery may affect the capacity of the battery, the capacities of the plurality of batteries (360) may be different based on the size and thickness of the batteries.

[0182] In one embodiment, the second battery (362) may have a larger size and a thicker thickness than the first battery (361) and the third battery (363), and the first battery (361) may have a smaller size and a thinner thickness than the second battery (362) and the third battery (363). For example, the first size of the first battery (361) may be smaller than the second size of the second battery (362) and the third size of the third battery (363). The second size may be larger than the first size and the third size. In one embodiment, the third size may be smaller than the second size and larger than the first size. For example, the first thickness (T1) of the first battery (361) may be thinner than the second thickness (T2) of the second battery (362) and the third thickness (T3) of the third battery (363). The second thickness (T2) may be thicker than the first thickness (T1) and the third thickness (T3). In one embodiment, the third thickness (T3) may be thinner than the second thickness (T2) and thicker than the first thickness (T1).

[0183] A foldable electronic device (101) is provided. The foldable electronic device (101) includes a foldable housing (201). The foldable housing (201) includes a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230) disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101) includes a first hinge assembly (240) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The foldable electronic device (101) includes a second hinge assembly (250) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) and has a wider width than the first hinge assembly (240). The foldable electronic device (101) includes a first display (e.g., a flexible display (260)) arranged to cross the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230). The foldable electronic device (101) includes a second display (e.g., a sub-display (266)) arranged inside the third housing part (230) and opposite the first display (260). The foldable electronic device (101) includes a first camera module (271) arranged inside the rear surface of the first housing part (210) and including an image processing circuit. The foldable electronic device (101) includes a key button module (280) including a processing circuit and at least one key button. The at least one key button is arranged on a side wall (e.g., an edge portion (211)) of the first housing part (210). The above foldable electronic device (101) includes a first printed circuit board (351) disposed within the first housing part (210).The folded state of the foldable electronic device (101) is a state in which the front of the third housing part (230) faces the front of the second housing part (220) and the front of the first housing part (210) faces the rear of the second housing part (220). Since the camera module (271) and the key button module (280) are included in the first housing part (210), the usability of the foldable electronic device (101) can be improved compared to other arrangements of the components.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may include a decoration (271b) that is at least partially exposed through the rear surface of the first housing part. The first camera module (271) may be positioned closer to the side wall (e.g., the edge portion) of the first housing part (210) than to the second hinge assembly (250) within the first housing part (210).

[0185] According to one embodiment, the first camera module (271) may be positioned within the first housing part (210) adjacent to the upper edge portion of the first housing part (210).

[0186] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a main processor (121) disposed on the first printed circuit board (351) and operatively connected to the first display (260), the second display (266), and the first camera module (271). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a second printed circuit board (352) disposed within the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a third printed circuit board (353) disposed within the third housing part (230). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a flexible printed circuit board (370) that electrically connects the second printed circuit board (352) and the third printed circuit board (353) to the first printed circuit board (351). The flexible printed circuit board (370) may include a first portion (911) that electrically connects the first printed circuit board (351) and the second printed circuit board (352), and a second portion (912) that electrically connects the first printed circuit board (351) and the third printed circuit board (353).

[0187] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include a first display driver circuit (921) (DDI, display driver integrated circuitry) disposed within the second housing part (220), electrically connected to the second printed circuit board (352), and configured to control the first display (260). The main processor (121) may be electrically connected to the first display driver circuit (921) through the first printed circuit board (351), the second part (912) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), and the second printed circuit board (352).

[0188] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a second display driving circuit (922) disposed within the third housing part (230) and configured to control the second display (266). The foldable electronic device (101) may include another flexible printed circuit board (961) electrically connecting the second display driving circuit (922) to the third printed circuit board (353) within the third housing part (230). The main processor (121) may be electrically connected to the second display driving circuit (922) through the first printed circuit board (351), the first part (911) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), the third printed circuit board (353), and the other flexible printed circuit board (961).

[0189] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include at least one antenna module (358) (e.g., the antenna module (197) of FIG. 1) disposed within the first housing part (210). The at least one antenna module (358) may be configured to radiate RF (radio frequency) signals toward the edge portion of the first housing part (210) or the rear surface of the first housing part (210).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a first battery (361) disposed within the first housing part (210). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a second battery (362) disposed within the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a third battery (363) disposed within the third housing part (230). A third size of the third battery (363) may be larger than a first size of the first battery (361) and smaller than a second size of the second battery (362).

[0191] According to one embodiment, the third thickness (T3) of the third battery (363) may be thicker than the first thickness (T1) of the first battery (361) and thinner than the second thickness (T2) of the second battery (362).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include an antenna (359) for near field communication (NFC) (e.g., antenna module (197) of FIG. 1) disposed between the first battery (361) and the rear surface of the first housing part (210).

[0193] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a first speaker (1211) disposed within the first housing part (210). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a second speaker (1212) disposed within the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a third speaker (1213) disposed within the third housing part (230) so as to be adjacent to an upper edge portion of the third housing part (230).

[0194] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may further include a connector hole (290) that is coupled to a terminal of an external electronic device and electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (351).

[0195] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a second camera module (272) facing in a direction opposite to the direction of the first camera module (271). The second camera module (272) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) among the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230).

[0196] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a third camera module (273) disposed within the third housing part (230) and facing the direction of the second display (266).

[0197] According to one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (240) and the second hinge assembly (250) may be configured to provide an unfolded state in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) are unfolded, an intermediate state in which the second housing part (220) is rotated in a first rotational direction relative to the third housing part (230) within the unfolded state, such that the front surface of the third housing part (230) faces the front surface of the second housing part (220), and a folded state in which the first housing part (210) is rotated in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction relative to the third housing part (230) within the intermediate state, such that the front surface of the first housing part (210) faces the rear surface of the second housing part (220).

[0198] A foldable electronic device (101) is provided. The foldable electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201). The foldable housing (201) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230) disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (240) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) to the third housing part (230). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a second hinge assembly (250) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) to the first housing part (210) and has a wider width than the first hinge assembly (240). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (260) disposed within the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a sub-display (266) disposed within the third housing part (230) and opposite the flexible display (260). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a deco (271b) partially exposed through the rear surface of the first housing part (210), and may include a first camera module (271) disposed within the first housing part (210). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a main processor (121) disposed within the first housing part (210) and operatively coupled with the flexible display (260), the sub-display (266), and the first camera module (271). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a first battery (361) disposed within the first housing part (210).The foldable electronic device (101) may include a second battery (362) disposed within the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a third battery (363) disposed within the third housing part (230). A third size of the third battery (363) may be larger than a first size of the first battery (361) and smaller than a second size of the second battery (362).

[0199] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a first printed circuit board (351) disposed within the first housing part (210). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a second printed circuit board (352) disposed within the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a third printed circuit board (353) disposed within the third housing part (230). The foldable electronic device (101) may include a flexible printed circuit board (370) that electrically connects the second printed circuit board (352) and the third printed circuit board (353) to the first printed circuit board (351). The flexible printed circuit board (370) may include a first portion (911) that electrically connects the first printed circuit board (351) and the second printed circuit board (352), and a second portion (912) that electrically connects the first printed circuit board (351) and the third printed circuit board (353).

[0200] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may further include a first display driver circuit (921) (DDI, display driver integrated circuitry) disposed within the second housing part (220), electrically connected to the second printed circuit board (352), and configured to control the flexible display (260). The main processor (121) may be electrically connected to the first display driver circuit (921) through the first printed circuit board (351), the second part (912) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), and the second printed circuit board (352).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a second display driving circuit (922) disposed within the third housing part (230) and configured to control the sub-display (266). The foldable electronic device (101) may include another flexible printed circuit board (961) electrically connecting the second display driving circuit (922) to the third printed circuit board (353) within the third housing part (230). The main processor (121) may be electrically connected to the second display driving circuit (922) through the first printed circuit board (351), the first part (911) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), the third printed circuit board (353), and the other flexible printed circuit board (961).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101) may include a second camera module (272) facing in a direction opposite to the direction of the first camera module (271). The second camera module (272) may be disposed within the first housing part (210) among the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230).

[0203] 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, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0204] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0205] 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).

[0206] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) 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 a memory (130) of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0208] 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), Foldable housing (201), the foldable housing (201) 1st housing part (210), Second housing part (220), and Includes a third housing part (230) disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220); A first hinge assembly (240) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) to the third housing part (230); A second hinge assembly (250) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) to the third housing part (230) and has a wider width than the first hinge assembly (240); A first display (260) crossing the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230); A second display (266) disposed within the third housing part (230) and opposite to the first display (260); A first camera module (271) disposed within the rear surface (1011) of the first housing part (210) and including an image processing circuit; A key button module (280) comprising a processing circuit and at least one key button, wherein the at least one key button is disposed on a side wall of the first housing part (210); and Includes a first printed circuit board (351) placed within the first housing part (210), The folded state of the above foldable electronic device (101) is a state in which the front of the third housing part (230) faces the front of the second housing part (220) and the front of the first housing part (210) faces the rear of the second housing part (220). Foldable electronic device (101).

2. In paragraph 1, The above first camera module (271) Including a deco (271b) that is at least partially exposed through the rear surface (1011) of the first housing part (210), Within the first housing part (210), positioned closer to the side wall of the first housing part (210) than the second hinge assembly (250), Foldable electronic device (101).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above first camera module (271) Within the first housing part (210), positioned adjacent to the upper edge portion of the first housing part (210), Foldable electronic device (101).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, A main processor (121) disposed on the first printed circuit board (351) and operatively connected to the first display (260), the second display (266), and the first camera module (271); A second printed circuit board (352) disposed within the second housing part (220); A third printed circuit board (353) placed within the third housing part (230); and Further comprising a flexible printed circuit board (370) electrically connecting the second printed circuit board (352) and the third printed circuit board (353) to the first printed circuit board (351), The above flexible printed circuit board (370) is A first part (911) electrically connecting the first printed circuit board (351) and the second printed circuit board (352), and A second part (912) including electrically connecting the first printed circuit board (351) and the third printed circuit board (353), Foldable electronic device (101).

5. In paragraph 4, Further comprising a first display driver integrated circuit (DDI) (921) arranged within the second housing part (220), electrically connected to the second printed circuit board (352), and configured to control the first display (260), The above main processor (121) The first printed circuit board (351), the second part (912) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), and the second printed circuit board (352) are electrically connected to the first display driving circuit (921). Foldable electronic device (101).

6. In paragraph 4 or 5, A second display driving circuit (922) arranged within the third housing part (230) and configured to control the second display (266); and Further comprising another flexible printed circuit board (961) electrically connecting the second display driving circuit (922) to the third printed circuit board (353) within the third housing part (230), The above main processor (121) Electrically connected to the second display (266) driving circuit through the first printed circuit board (351), the first part (911) of the flexible printed circuit board (370), the third printed circuit board (353), and the other flexible printed circuit board (961). Foldable electronic device (101).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, Further comprising at least one antenna module (358) disposed within the first housing part (210), At least one antenna module (358) above, configured to radiate RF (radio frequency) signals toward the edge portion (221) of the first housing part (210) or the rear surface (1011) of the first housing part (210). Foldable electronic device (101).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, A first battery (361) placed within the first housing part (210); A second battery (362) placed within the second housing part (220); and Further comprising a third battery (363) placed within the third housing part (230), The third size of the above third battery (363) is Larger than the first size of the first battery (361) and smaller than the second size of the second battery (362), Foldable electronic device (101).

9. In paragraph 8, The third thickness of the third battery (363) is Thicker than the first thickness of the first battery (361) and thinner than the second thickness of the second battery (362), Foldable electronic device (101).

10. In either of paragraphs 8 or 9, Further comprising an antenna (359) for NFC (near field communication) arranged between the first battery (361) and the rear surface (1011) of the first housing part (210). Foldable electronic device (101).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, A first speaker (1211) placed within the first housing part (210); A second speaker (1212) placed within the second housing part (220); and Further comprising a third speaker (1213) positioned adjacent to the upper edge portion (213) of the third housing part (230) within the third housing part (230). Foldable electronic device (101).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above first housing part (210) is Further comprising a connector hole (290) coupled with a terminal of an external electronic device (102, 104) and electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (351). Foldable electronic device (101).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, It further includes a second camera module (272) facing in the opposite direction to the direction of the first camera module (271), The above second camera module (272) is Among the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230), the one disposed within the first housing part (210) Foldable electronic device (101).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, Further comprising a third camera module (273) disposed within the third housing part (230) and facing the direction of the second display (266). Foldable electronic device (101).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The first hinge assembly (240) and the second hinge assembly (250) are The first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) are in an unfolded state, Within the above unfolded state, the second housing part (220) is rotated in the first rotational direction with respect to the third housing part (230), so that the front surface of the third housing part (230) faces the front surface of the second housing part (220), and Within the above intermediate state, the first housing part (210) is rotated in a second rotational direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the third housing part (230), thereby providing the folded state in which the front surface of the first housing part (210) faces the rear surface of the second housing part (220). Foldable electronic device (101).

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