Hinge assembly and foldable electronic device comprising same

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a hinge assembly and a foldable electronic device comprising same. The foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first housing; a second housing; a hinge assembly; and a flexible display, wherein the hinge assembly comprises: a first shaft; a second shaft; a first arm coupled to the first shaft; a second arm coupled to the second shaft; a first cam member moving along with the first shaft when the first arm is rotated; and a second cam member moving along with the second shaft when the second arm is rotated.

Description

Hinge assembly and foldable electronic device including the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hinge assembly and a foldable electronic device including the same, for example, to a hinge assembly including a plurality of rotation axes (e.g., two).

[0002] Electronic devices can refer to devices that perform specific functions based on their embedded programs, such as home appliances, electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, audio / video devices, desktop / laptop computers, or in-vehicle navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as audio or video.

[0003] As the integration of electronic devices increases and ultra-high-speed and / or high-capacity wireless communications become more widespread, a single electronic device, such as a mobile terminal, can now incorporate a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions such as gaming, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions such as mobile banking, and even calendar management or electronic wallet functions are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are becoming smaller for convenient portability. Furthermore, to provide even greater usability, foldable or rollable electronic devices, which include flexible displays that can be folded or rolled, are becoming commercially available.

[0004] The above information may be provided as background information to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge assembly configured to rotate the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display disposed in the first housing and the second housing, wherein the hinge assembly includes a gear train including a first gear configured to rotate in a first rotational direction and a second gear configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, a first shaft connected to the first gear, a second shaft connected to the second gear and extending along the first shaft, a first arm coupled to the first shaft to rotate together with the first shaft and configured to rotate the first housing, a second arm coupled to the second shaft to rotate together with the second shaft and configured to rotate the second housing, a first cam member contacting the first arm to move along the first shaft when the first arm rotates, and contacting the second arm to move along the second shaft when the second arm rotates. It may include a second cam member that engages with the first cam member, and the first cam member may be movable relative to the second cam member along the first shaft.

[0006] A hinge assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a gear train including a first gear configured to rotate in a first rotational direction, and a second gear configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, a first shaft connected to the first gear, a second shaft connected to the second gear and extending along the first shaft, a first arm coupled to the first shaft to rotate together with the first shaft, a second arm coupled to the second shaft to rotate together with the second shaft, a first cam member contacting the first arm to move along the first shaft when the first arm rotates, and a second cam member contacting the second arm to move along the second shaft when the second arm rotates, the second cam member engaging the first cam member, wherein the first cam member may be movable relative to the second cam member along the first shaft.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a folded state of the foldable electronic device of FIG. 1.

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates the interior of a foldable electronic device showing a hinge plate and a hinge assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a plan view of a hinge assembly in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 7 illustrates a gear train according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates the operation process of cam members of a hinge assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of cam members according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the cam members separated from each other.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of cam members showing a state in which the cam members are interlocked with each other according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating that rotational forces acting on a first cam member and a second cam member are offset by a first arm and a second arm according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and illustrates the first cam member and the second cam member in an interlocked state.

[0018] Fig. 12 illustrates the operation process of the cam member of the hinge assembly according to a comparative example.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a graph showing, by angle, the repulsive force generated during the unfolding process of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a foldable electronic device according to a comparative example illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0020] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device illustrating a pad according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of cam members showing a state in which the cam members are interlocked with each other according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of cam members cut along the line BB' shown in Fig. 15.

[0023] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of cam members showing the cam members separated from each other, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of cam members showing the cam members separated from each other, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of cam members showing the cam members separated from each other, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] The following description of the accompanying drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure, including the claims and their equivalents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include numerous specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one example of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the various implementations described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0027] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their reference meanings and can be used to clearly and consistently describe one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various implementations of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents.

[0028] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural meanings. Thus, for example, "a component surface" could be understood to include one or more of the surfaces of the component.

[0029] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0030] The various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to 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.

[0031] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0032] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0033] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a folded state of the foldable electronic device (100) of FIG. 1.

[0035] In the detailed description below, a configuration in which a pair of housing structures (or, "housings") are rotatably coupled by a hinge assembly may be exemplified. However, it should be noted that this embodiment does not limit the electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include three or more housing structures, and "a pair of housing structures" in the embodiments disclosed below may mean "two housing structures rotatably coupled to each other among the three or more housing structures."

[0036] Referring to FIG. 1, a foldable electronic device (100) may include a pair of housing structures (or housings) (110, 120) that are rotatably coupled to each other via a hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 3) so as to be folded, a hinge cover (165) that covers a foldable portion of the pair of housing structures (110, 120), and a flexible display (130) (or foldable display) that is disposed in a space formed by the pair of housing structures (110, 120). In this document, a surface on which the display (130) is disposed may be defined as a front surface of the foldable electronic device (100), and a surface opposite to the front surface may be defined as a rear surface of the foldable electronic device (100). In addition, a surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the rear surface may be defined as a side surface of the foldable electronic device (100).

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a pair of housing structures (110, 120) may include a first housing structure (or first housing) (110) including a sensor area (131d), a second housing structure (or second housing) (120), a first rear cover (140), and a second rear cover (150). The pair of housing structures (110, 120) of the foldable electronic device (100) are not limited to the shapes and combinations illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in another embodiment, the first housing structure (110) and the first rear cover (140) may be formed integrally, and the second housing structure (120) and the second rear cover (150) may be formed integrally. In another embodiment, the first housing structure (110) may include a first rear cover (140), and the second housing structure (120) may include a second rear cover (150).

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) may be disposed on both sides with respect to, for example, a folding axis (A), and may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis (A). In some embodiments, the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) may be rotatable with respect to the hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 3) or the hinge cover (165) with respect to different folding axes. For example, the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) may be rotatably coupled to the hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 3) or the hinge cover (165), respectively, and may rotate with respect to the folding axis (A) or with respect to different folding axes, thereby rotating between a position in which they are folded together and an inclined position with respect to each other or a position in which they are unfolded parallel to each other.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the foldable electronic device (100) is unfolded, the hinge cover (165) may be substantially concealed by the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). When the foldable electronic device (100) is folded, the hinge cover (165) may be at least partially exposed to the external space between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0040] In this document, the phrase "positioned parallel to each other" or "extending parallel to each other" may mean a state in which two structures (e.g., housing structures (110, 120)) are positioned at least partially next to each other, or a state in which at least portions positioned next to each other are arranged in parallel. In some embodiments, the phrase "positioned parallel to each other" may mean that two structures are positioned next to each other and are arranged to face a parallel direction or the same direction. Although expressions such as "parallel" and "parallel" may be used in the detailed description below, this can be easily understood according to the shape or arrangement relationship of the structures with reference to the attached drawings, etc.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the angle or distance between the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) may vary depending on whether the state of the foldable electronic device (100) is an extended state (flat state, or unfolding state) (or open state), a folding state (or closed state), or an intermediate state. In describing various embodiments of the present disclosure, the state of the foldable electronic device (100) being an “unfolded state” may mean a “fully unfolded state” in which the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) of the electronic device form an angle of 180 degrees. The state of the foldable electronic device (100) being a “closed state” may mean a state in which the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) of the electronic device form an angle of 0 degrees or an angle within 10 degrees. The state of the foldable electronic device (100) being an “intermediate state” may mean a state in which the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) form an angle between the angle formed in the “unfolded state” and the angle formed in the “closed state” of the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120).

[0042] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing structure (110) additionally includes a sensor area (131d) in which various sensors are arranged, unlike the second housing structure (120), but may have a mutually symmetrical shape in other areas. In another embodiment, the sensor area (131d) may be additionally arranged in or replaced with at least a portion of the second housing structure (120). In yet another embodiment, the sensor area (131d) may be omitted from the first housing structure (110).

[0043] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first housing structure (110) may be connected to the hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 3) in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (100), and may include a first side member (111) arranged to face the front of the foldable electronic device (100), a second side member (112) facing in an opposite direction to the first side member (111), and a first side member (113) surrounding at least a portion of the space between the first side member (111) and the second side member (112).

[0044] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side member (113) may include a first side (113a) arranged parallel to the folding axis (A), a second side (113b) extending from one end of the first side (113a) in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A), and a third side (113c) extending from the other end of the first side (113a) in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A). In describing various embodiments of the present invention, expressions such as “parallel” or “vertical” are used with respect to the arrangement relationship of the above-described side surfaces, but depending on the embodiment, this may include the meaning of “partially parallel” or “partially vertical.” In some embodiments, expressions such as “parallel” or “vertical” may include an inclined arrangement relationship within an angular range of 10 degrees or less.

[0045] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second housing structure (120) is connected to the hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 3) and may include a third side (121) arranged to face the front of the foldable electronic device (100) in an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (100), a fourth side (122) facing in an opposite direction of the third side (121), and a second side member (123) surrounding at least a portion of the space between the third side (121) and the fourth side (122).

[0046] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second side member (123) may include a fourth side member (123a) arranged parallel to the folding axis (A), a fifth side member (123b) extending from one end of the fourth side member (123a) in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A), and a sixth side member (123c) extending from the other end of the fourth side member (123a) in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A). In one embodiment, the third side member (121) may be arranged to face the first side member (111) in a folded state. In some embodiments, the second side member (123) may be manufactured with substantially the same shape or material as the first side member (113), although there may be some differences in specific shapes.

[0047] In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may include a recess (101) formed to accommodate a display (130) through a structural shape combination of a first housing structure (110) and a second housing structure (120). The recess (101) may have substantially the same size as the display (130). In one embodiment, due to the sensor area (131d), the recess (101) may have two or more different widths in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A). For example, the recess (101) may have a first width (W1) between a first portion (120a) of the second housing structure (120) that is parallel to the folding axis (A) and a first first portion (110a) formed at an edge of a sensor area (131d) of the first housing structure (110), and a second width (W2) formed by a second portion (120b) of the second housing structure (120) and a second portion (110b) that is parallel to the folding axis (A) and does not correspond to the sensor area (131d) of the first first housing structure (110). In this case, the second width (W2) may be formed longer than the first width (W1). For example, the recess (101) may be formed to have a first width (W1) formed from a first portion (110a) of a first housing structure (110) having a mutually asymmetrical shape to a first portion (120a) of a second housing structure (120), and a second width (W2) formed from a second portion (110b) of a first first housing structure (110) having a mutually symmetrical shape to a second portion (120b) of a second housing structure (120). In one embodiment, the first portion (110a) and the second portion (110b) of the first first housing structure (110) may be formed to have different distances from the folding axis (A). The width of the recess (101) is not limited to the illustrated example.In various embodiments, the recess (101) may have two or more different widths due to the shape of the sensor area (131d) or the asymmetrical shape of the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120).

[0048] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) may be formed of a metallic or non-metallic material having a rigidity selected to support the display (130). In another embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) may include an electrically conductive material. When the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) include an electrically conductive material, the foldable electronic device (100) may transmit and receive wireless radio waves using portions of the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120) made of the electrically conductive material. For example, a processor or a communication module of the foldable electronic device (100) may perform wireless communication using portions of the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120).

[0049] In one embodiment, the sensor area (131d) may be formed to have a predetermined area adjacent to one corner of the first housing structure (110). However, the arrangement, shape, or size of the sensor area (131d) is not limited to the illustrated example. For example, in another embodiment, the sensor area (131d) may be provided at another corner of the first housing structure (110) or any area between the upper corner and the lower corner. In another embodiment, the sensor area (131d) may be arranged in at least a portion of the second housing structure (120). In another embodiment, the sensor area (131d) may be arranged to extend to the first housing structure (110) and the second housing structure (120). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may include components exposed on the front side of the foldable electronic device (100) through the sensor area (131d) or through one or more openings provided in the sensor area (131d), and various functions may be performed through these components. The components arranged in the sensor area (131d) may include, for example, at least one of a front camera device, a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, an iris recognition sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an indicator. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this embodiment. The sensor area (131d) may be omitted depending on the embodiment, and accordingly, the components arranged in the sensor area (131d) may be distributed and arranged in at least a portion of the first housing structure (110) and / or the second housing structure (120).

[0050] In one embodiment, the first rear cover (140) can be disposed on the second side (112) of the first housing structure (110) and can have a substantially rectangular periphery. In one embodiment, the periphery of the first rear cover (140) can be at least partially wrapped by the first housing structure (110). Similarly, the second rear cover (150) can be disposed on the fourth side (122) of the second housing structure (120) and can have at least a portion of its periphery wrapped by the second housing structure (120).

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the first rear cover (140) and the second rear cover (150) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (A). In other embodiments, the first rear cover (140) and the second rear cover (150) may include various different shapes. In yet another embodiment, the first rear cover (140) may be formed integrally with the first housing structure (110), and the second rear cover (150) may be formed integrally with the second housing structure (120).

[0052] In one embodiment, the first rear cover (140), the second rear cover (150), the first housing structure (110), and the second housing structure (120) may be coupled to each other to provide a space in which various components of the foldable electronic device (100) (e.g., a printed circuit board, an antenna module, a sensor module, or a battery) may be placed. In one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear surface of the foldable electronic device (100). For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the first rear area (141) of the first first rear cover (140). In various embodiments, the sensors may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera device, and / or a flash. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the sub-display (152) may be visually exposed through the second rear area (151) of the second rear cover (150).

[0053] The display (130) may be placed in a space formed by a pair of housing structures (110, 120). For example, the display (130) may be mounted in a recess (e.g., recess (101) of FIG. 1) formed by the pair of housing structures (110, 120) and may be placed to occupy substantially most of the front surface of the foldable electronic device (100). For example, the front surface of the foldable electronic device (100) may include the display (130) and a portion (e.g., an edge portion) of the first housing structure (110) adjacent to the display (130) and a portion (e.g., an edge portion) of the second housing structure (120). In one embodiment, the back surface of the foldable electronic device (100) may include a first back cover (140), a portion (e.g., an edge region) of a first housing structure (110) adjacent to the first back cover (140), a second back cover (150), and a portion (e.g., an edge region) of a second housing structure (120) adjacent to the second back cover (150).

[0054] In one embodiment, the display (130) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. In one embodiment, the display (130) may include a folding area (131c), a first area (131a) disposed on one side (e.g., a right area of ​​the folding area (131c)) with respect to the folding area (131c), and a second area (131b) disposed on the other side (e.g., a left area of ​​the folding area (131c)). For example, the first area (131a) may be disposed on a first side (111) of the first housing structure (110), and the second area (131b) may be disposed on a third side (121) of the second housing structure (120). For example, the display (130) may extend from the first side (111) to the third side (121) through the hinge assembly (200) of FIG. 3, and at least an area corresponding to the hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 3) (e.g., a folding area (131c)) may be a flexible area that can be transformed from a flat shape to a curved shape.

[0055] In one embodiment, the division of the regions of the display (130) is exemplary, and the display (130) may be divided into a plurality of regions (for example, four or more or two) depending on the structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the folding region (131c) extends in the direction of the vertical axis (for example, the Y-axis in FIG. 3) parallel to the folding axis (A), and the regions of the display (130) may be divided by the folding region (131c) or the folding axis (A), but in other embodiments, the regions of the display (130) may be divided based on other folding regions or other folding axes. The above-described display area division is merely a physical division by a pair of housing structures (110, 120) and a hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 3), and in reality, the display (130) can display one entire screen through a pair of housing structures (110, 120) and a hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 3).

[0056] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first region (131a) and the second region (131b) may have an overall symmetrical shape centered on the folding region (131c). However, unlike the second region (131b), the first region (131a) may include a notch region that provides a sensor region (131d), and may have a shape symmetrical with respect to the second region (131b) in other regions. For example, the first region (131a) and the second region (131b) may include portions having mutually symmetrical shapes and portions having mutually asymmetrical shapes.

[0057] FIG. 3 illustrates the interior of a foldable electronic device (100) showing a hinge plate (171, 172) and a hinge assembly (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 3, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device (100) may include a first housing (110), a second housing (120), a first support member (114), a second support member (124), a display (e.g., the display (130) of FIGS. 1 and / or 3), and / or a hinge assembly (200) and / or a hinge cover (165, see FIG. 2). Here, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first hinge plate (171) and a second hinge plate (172). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may be disposed or mounted on the inside (e.g., the inner side) of the hinge cover (165, see FIG. 2) and may connect the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). According to one embodiment, the first hinge plate (171) and the second hinge plate (172) may also be positioned or mounted on the inside (e.g., the inner side) of the hinge cover (165, see FIG. 2) and may be connected to the first support member (114) of the first housing (110) and the second support member (124) of the second housing (120), respectively.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the first hinge plate (171) and the second hinge plate (172) may be fixedly coupled to the first support member (114) and the second support member (124), respectively, through at least one fixing member (F). In one embodiment, the hinge assembly (200) may provide a folding axis (A) of the foldable electronic device (100) of FIG. 1, and, according to an embodiment, may provide a rotation axis (Ax1) that serves as a center of rotation of the first housing (210) and a rotation axis (Ax2) that serves as a center of rotation of the second housing (120). The first rotation axis (Ax1) and the second rotation axis (Ax2) may be formed or arranged at positions spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. The direction in which the first rotation axis (Ax1) and / or the second rotation axis (Ax2) extends can be defined as the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the foldable electronic device (100).

[0060] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200), the first hinge plate (171), the second hinge plate (172), and / or the hinge cover (165, see FIG. 2) may be positioned substantially corresponding to a folding area (e.g., the folding area (131c) of FIG. 1) of the flexible display (130, see FIG. 1). The first housing (110) and the second housing (120) are coupled to the hinge assembly (200) and can rotate with respect to the hinge assembly (200). The first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may rotate between a position where they face each other (e.g., a folded state of FIG. 2) and a position where they are unfolded at a specified angle with respect to each other (e.g., an unfolded state of FIG. 1). Here, the first housing (110) can rotate around the first rotation axis (Ax1), and the second housing (120) can rotate around the second rotation axis (Ax2). The “position unfolded at a specified angle” can include a position where the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) unfold at a 180 degree angle with respect to each other, and when either the first housing (110) or the second housing (120) rotates, the hinge assembly (200) can rotate the other one of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). For example, when the first housing (110) rotates away from the second housing (120), the hinge assembly (200) can rotate the second housing (120) in a direction that moves away from the first housing (110). In some embodiments, when the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) are rotated between a position where they face each other and a position where they form a 180 degree angle with respect to each other, the first housing (110) can rotate within a 90 degree angle range with respect to the hinge assembly (200), and the second housing (120) can also rotate within a 90 degree angle range.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first hinge plate (171) and a second hinge plate (172) may each be coupled to a hinge assembly (200). The hinge plates (171, 172) are generally composed of flat portions, and in one embodiment, at least a portion thereof may be formed to have a curved shape with a predetermined curvature. In various embodiments, the first hinge plate (171) and the second hinge plate (172) may have substantially the same structure.

[0062] The description of the sub-components of the two substantially identical components above can be described without distinguishing between the 'first' and the 'second'. Hereinafter, when describing the sub-components of the two substantially identical components, for example, the description of the sub-components included in the 'first component' can be equally applied to the description of the sub-components included in the 'second component'. Accordingly, the description of the sub-components included in the 'second component' can be omitted to the extent that it overlaps with the description of the sub-components included in the 'first component', and the description of the sub-components included in the 'first component' can be applied to the description of the sub-components included in the 'second component' to the extent that they are not overlapping with each other.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, several components provided for folding a foldable electronic device may be provided as a pair and arranged symmetrically left and right with respect to a folding axis (e.g., folding axis A of FIG. 1). For example, the first hinge plate (171) and the second hinge plate (172) may have substantially the same configuration and may be arranged symmetrically left and right with respect to a folding axis (e.g., folding axis (A) of FIG. 1). Accordingly, the description of the first hinge plate (171) may be applied to the second hinge plate (172) which is symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (e.g., folding axis (A) of FIG. 1). The description of the components arranged symmetrically left and right with respect to a folding axis (e.g., folding axis (A) of FIG. 1) may also be substantially identically applied to the description of the components included in the hinge assembly (240).

[0064] A hinge assembly (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a first rotator (251), a second rotator (252), a first arm (271), and a second arm (272). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first rotator (251) and the second rotator (252) may have a generally flat shape. The first rotator (251) and the second rotator (252) may be fixedly coupled to the first housing (110) and the second housing (120), respectively, and may support the first arm (271) and the second arm (272) from one side. For example, the first arm (271) and the second arm (272) can be connected to one end of the first rotator (251) and the second rotator (252).

[0065] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first arm (271) and a second arm (272) may be included. The first arm (271) may be rotated about a first rotational axis (Ax1) together with a first shaft (211, see FIG. 4). The second arm (272) may be rotated about a second rotational axis (Ax2) together with a second shaft (212, see FIG. 4).

[0066] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include an elastic member (280). The elastic member (280) may provide pressure or elastic force to the first arm (271) and the second arm (272). The elastic member (280), the arms (271, 272), and the cam members (221, 222, 231, 232, see FIG. 4) will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6.

[0067] FIG. 4 is a plan view of a hinge assembly (200) in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge assembly (200) in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly (200) in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, a hinge assembly (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a gear train (260) including a first gear (261) and a second gear (262). The gear train (260) may include a plurality of gears (e.g., spur gears) (e.g., four). The motions (e.g., rotations) of the plurality of gears included in the gear train (260) may be interlocked with each other.

[0069] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the gear train (260) may include various types of gears. As an example, FIGS. 5 to 8 illustrate a case where the gear train (260) includes a plurality of spur gears. However, the gears included in the gear train (260) are not limited to spur gears, and may include various types of gears (e.g., helical gears and / or bevel gears) that can be interlocked with each other.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a gear train (260) may include a first gear (261) configured to rotate in a first rotational direction, and a second gear (262) configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction. For example, the gear train (260) may include an even number (e.g., four) of gears arranged in a roughly linear row, and the first gear (261) and the second gear (262) may be two gears positioned at opposite ends among a plurality of gears.

[0071] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a gear bracket (265). A gear train (260) may be disposed on the gear bracket (265). The gear bracket (265) may partially surround the gear train (260). The gear bracket (265) may be positioned between the gear train (260) and the arms (271, 272).

[0072] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first shaft (211) connected to the first gear (261). The first shaft (211) may be rotated together with the first gear (261) about a rotational axis of the first gear (261). The hinge assembly (200) may include a second shaft (212) connected to the second gear (262). The second shaft (212) may be rotated together with the second gear (262) about a rotational axis of the second gear (262). The first shaft (211) may provide a first rotational axis (Ax1). The second shaft (212) may provide a second rotational axis (Ax2). The second shaft (212) may extend along the first shaft (211).

[0073] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first shaft (211) is coupled to the first arm (271) and can rotate together with the first arm (271). The second shaft (212) is coupled to the second arm (272) and can rotate together with the second arm (272). The cross sections of the first shaft (211) and the second shaft (212) are formed non-circularly so that they can rotate together with the first arm (271) and the second arm (272). For example, the first shaft (211) and the first arm (271), and the second shaft (212) and the second arm (272) can be coupled to each other through a spline structure.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first arm (271) coupled to a first shaft (211). The first arm (271) may include a first coupling portion (271a) and a second coupling portion (271b) coupled to the first shaft (211). The first coupling portion (271a) and the second coupling portion (271b) of the first arm (271) may be spaced apart from each other in an axial direction (e.g., a Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211). As an example, the first coupling portion (271a) and the second coupling portion (271b) of the first arm (271) may be coupled to the first shaft (211) via the aforementioned spline structure.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a second arm (272) coupled to a second shaft (212). The second arm (272) may include a first coupling portion (272a) and a second coupling portion (272b) coupled to the second shaft (212). The first coupling portion (272a) and the second coupling portion (272b) of the second arm (272) may be spaced apart from each other in an axial direction (e.g., a Y-axis direction) of the second shaft (212). As an example, the first coupling portion (272a) and the second coupling portion (272b) of the second arm (272) may be coupled to the second shaft (212) via the aforementioned spline structure.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first arm (271) may include a third coupling portion (271c) coupled with the first rotator (251). The third coupling portion (271c) of the first arm (271) may be spaced apart from the first coupling portion (271a) and / or the second coupling portion (271b) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211) (e.g., the X-axis direction). The third coupling portion (271c) of the first arm (271) may be coupled to the first slot (251a) of the first rotator (251) via a coupling member (291).

[0077] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second arm (272) may include a third coupling portion (272c) coupled with the second rotator (252). The third coupling portion (272c) of the second arm (272) may be spaced apart from the second coupling portion (272a) and / or the second coupling portion (272b) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the second shaft (212) (e.g., the X-axis direction). The third coupling portion (272c) of the second arm (272) may be coupled to the second slot (252a) of the second rotator (252) via the coupling member (292).

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first rotator (251) coupled to a first housing (110, see FIG. 3). The first rotator (251) may be coupled to a first arm (271) via a fastening member (291). When the first arm (271) rotates about the first shaft (211), a rotational force is transmitted to the first rotator (251) via the fastening member (291), thereby causing the first rotator (251) to rotate.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a second rotator (252) coupled to a second housing (120, see FIG. 3). The second rotator (252) may be coupled to a second arm (272) via a fastening member (292). When the second arm (272) rotates about the second shaft (212), a rotational force is transmitted to the second rotator (252) via the fastening member (292), thereby causing the second rotator (252) to rotate.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a rotator bracket (253). A first rotator (251) and a second rotator (252) may be rotatably coupled to the rotator bracket (253). The rotator bracket (253) may be supported by a hinge cover (165, see FIG. 2).

[0081] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first cam member (221) and a second cam member (222) that are interlocked with each other. The first cam member (221) may be disposed on a first shaft (211). The second cam member (222) may be disposed on a second shaft (212). The first shaft (211) may pass through the first cam member (221) so as not to be constrained from rotation of the first shaft (211). The second shaft (212) may pass through the second cam member (222) so as not to be constrained from rotation of the second shaft (212).

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first shaft (211) and the first cam member (221) may be engaged with the second cam member (222) to prevent the second cam member (222) from rotating relative to the second shaft (212). Similarly, the second cam member (222) may be engaged with the first cam member (221) to prevent the first cam member (221) from rotating relative to the first shaft (211).

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a third cam member (231) and a fourth cam member (232) that are interlocked with each other. The third cam member (231) may be positioned between the second coupling portion (271b) of the first arm (271) and the second shaft bracket (242). The fourth cam member (232) may be positioned between the second coupling portion (272b) of the second arm (272) and the second shaft bracket (242). The first shaft (211) may pass through the third cam member (231). The second shaft (212) may pass through the fourth cam member (232).

[0084] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the shape of the third cam member (231) may have a shape that is symmetrical with respect to the second cam member (222) with respect to a predetermined axis (e.g., the folding axis (A) of FIG. 1). The shape of the fourth cam member (232) may have a shape that is symmetrical with respect to the first cam member (221) with respect to a predetermined axis (e.g., the folding axis (A) of FIG. 1). The description of the first cam member (221) described below may be substantially equally applicable to the fourth cam member (232) within a range where they are not arranged with each other. The description of the second cam member (222) described below may be substantially equally applicable to the third cam member (231) within a range where they are not arranged with each other.

[0085] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may contact a portion of the first arm (271) (e.g., the first driving cam portion (273) of FIG. 8). When the first arm (271) rotates, the first cam member (221) in contact with the first arm (271) may move along the first shaft (211) by the first arm (271). The second cam member (222) may contact a portion of the second arm (272) (e.g., the second driving cam portion (275) of FIG. 8). When the second arm (272) rotates, the second cam member (222) in contact with the second arm (272) may move along the second shaft (212) by the second arm (272).

[0086] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a plurality of elastic bodies (281, 282) (e.g., the elastic body (280) of FIG. 3). Among the plurality of elastic bodies (281, 282), the elastic body disposed on the first shaft (211) may be referred to as the first elastic body (281), and the elastic body disposed on the second shaft (212) may be referred to as the second elastic body (282). As an example, the first elastic body (281) may be a spring through which the first shaft (211) passes, and the second elastic body (282) may be a spring through which the second shaft (212) passes.

[0087] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first elastic body (281) can provide elastic force toward the first coupling portion (271a) and the second coupling portion (271b) of the first arm (271) to the first cam member (221) and / or the third cam member (231). Accordingly, the contact between the first cam member (221) and the first coupling portion (271a) of the first arm (271) can be maintained by the first elastic body (281). In addition, the contact between the third cam member (231) and the second coupling portion (271b) of the first arm (271) can be maintained by the first elastic body (281).

[0088] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second elastic body (282) can provide elastic force toward the first engaging portion (272a) and the second engaging portion (272b) of the second arm (272) to the second cam member (222) and / or the fourth cam member (232). Accordingly, the contact between the second cam member (222) and the first engaging portion (272a) of the second arm (272) can be maintained by the second elastic body (282). In addition, the contact between the third cam member (232) and the second engaging portion (272b) of the second arm (272) can be maintained by the second elastic body (282).

[0089] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first shaft bracket (241). The first shaft bracket (241) may be fixed to a hinge cover (165, see FIG. 2) via a fastening member. The first shaft (211) may be supported by the first shaft bracket (241) by penetrating one side of the first shaft bracket (241). The second shaft (212) may be supported by the first shaft bracket (241) by penetrating the other side of the first shaft bracket (241). The first shaft bracket (241) may support the first elastic member (281) and the second elastic member (282). The above one side of the first shaft bracket (241) can be positioned between the first coupling portion (271a) and the second coupling portion (271b) of the first arm (271), and the above other side of the first shaft bracket (241) can be positioned between the first coupling portion (272a) and the second coupling portion (272b) of the second arm (272).

[0090] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a second shaft bracket (242). The second shaft bracket (242) may be fixed to the hinge cover (165, see FIG. 2) via a fastening member. The first shaft (211) may be supported by the second shaft bracket (242) by penetrating one side of the second shaft bracket (242). The second shaft (212) may be supported by the second shaft bracket (242) by penetrating the other side of the second shaft bracket (242). The second shaft bracket (242) may support the first elastic member (281) and the second elastic member (282). One side of the second shaft bracket (242) may be positioned adjacent to the end of the first shaft (211), and the other side of the second shaft bracket (242) may be positioned adjacent to the end of the second shaft (212).

[0091] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first stopper (211a) coupled to an end of a first shaft (211). The hinge assembly (200) may include a second stopper (212a) coupled to an end of a second shaft (212). The first stopper (211a) and the second stopper (212a) may prevent components (e.g., arms (271, 272), cam members (221, 222, 231, 232), elastic bodies (281, 282), shaft brackets (241, 242)) disposed on the first shaft (211) and / or the second shaft (212) from being separated from the first shaft (211) and / or the second shaft (212).

[0092] Fig. 7 illustrates a gear train (260) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 illustrates the operation of cam members (221, 222) of a hinge assembly (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 7, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a gear train (260) may include a plurality of gears (261, 262, 263, 264) that are interlocked with each other. The plurality of gears (261, 262, 263, 264) may include a first gear (261) and a second gear (262) that are configured to rotate in opposite directions. As an example, the gears (261, 262, 263, 264) included in the gear train (260) may include a first gear (261), a second gear (262), a third gear (263), and a fourth gear (264).

[0094] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a backlash (B) may be formed between two adjacent gears (e.g., a first gear (261) and a third gear (263)) among a plurality of gears (261, 262, 263, 264) to minimize damage to gear teeth that may occur during operation of the gears. The backlash (B) may be formed between the first gear (261) and the third gear (263), between the third gear (263) and the fourth gear (264), and between the fourth gear (264) and the second gear (262). As an example, the backlash (B) may be approximately 4 degrees.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the rotational force of the first gear (261) is sequentially transmitted to the second gear (262) through the third gear (263) and the fourth gear (264), due to the accumulation of backlash (B) between the plurality of gears (261, 262, 263, 264), the rotational angle (R2) of the second gear (262) may be different from the rotational angle (R1) of the first gear (261), and, for example, may be smaller.

[0096] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the rotation angle (R1) of the first gear (261) may be substantially the same as the rotation angle of the first shaft (211), and the rotation angle (R2) of the second gear (262) may be substantially the same as the rotation angle of the second shaft (212). Therefore, due to the accumulation of the backlash (B), the rotation angles of the first shaft (261) and the second shaft (262) may become different from each other, and accordingly, the rotation angles of the first arm (271) and the second arm (272) may become different from each other. As a result, vibration or noise due to friction or collision between parts may occur during the process of folding and unfolding the hinge assembly (200).

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) can move relative to the second cam member (222) along the first shaft (211). Similarly, the second cam member (222) can move relative to the first cam member (221) along the second shaft (212). Accordingly, friction or collision between components of the hinge assembly (200) can be reduced due to the difference in rotation angles of the first arm (271) and the second arm (272) as suggested in the description with reference to FIG. 7.

[0098] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first arm (271) may include a first driving cam portion (273). The first driving cam portion (273) may be engaged with a first driven cam portion (221a) of the first cam member (221). The first driving cam portion (273) may include a plurality of protrusions (274) protruding in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211). The plurality of protrusions (274) of the first driving cam portion (273) may be arranged around the first shaft (211) so as to surround the first shaft (211).

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a first driven cam portion (221a) that faces and contacts the first driving cam portion (273) of the first arm (271). The first driven cam portion (221a) may include a plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f, see FIG. 9) that protrude in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211).

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first arm (271) rotates together with the first shaft (211), the first cam member (221) can move along the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211) by the engagement of the plurality of protrusions (274) of the first driving cam portion (273) of the first arm (271) and the first driven cam portion (221a) of the first cam member (221).

[0101] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second arm (272) may include a second drive cam portion (275). The second drive cam portion (275) may engage with a second driven cam portion (222a) of the second cam member (222). The second drive cam portion (275) may include a plurality of protrusions (276) protruding in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the second shaft (212). The plurality of protrusions (276) of the second drive cam portion (275) may be arranged around the second shaft (212) so as to surround the second shaft (212).

[0102] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member (222) may include a second driven cam portion (222a) that faces and contacts the second driving cam portion (275) of the second arm (272). The second driven cam portion (222a) may include a plurality of protrusions (222d, 222e, 222f, see FIG. 9) that protrude in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the second shaft (212).

[0103] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the second arm (272) rotates together with the second shaft (212), the second cam member (222) can move along the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the second shaft (212) by the engagement of the plurality of projections (276) of the second driving cam portion (275) of the second arm (272) and the second driven cam portion (222a) of the second cam member (222).

[0104] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a difference (g) between a distance the first cam member (221) moves along the first shaft (211) and a distance the second cam member (222) moves along the second shaft (212) may occur due to a difference between a rotation angle (R1) of the first gear (261) and a rotation angle (R2) of the second gear (262). In addition, a maximum distance (l1) between the first driving cam portion (273) and the first driven cam portion (221a) may be greater than a maximum distance (l2) between the second driving cam portion (275) and the second driven cam portion (222a).

[0105] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) and the second cam member (222) are configured to be able to move relative to each other, so that contact between the first driving cam portion (273) and the first driven cam portion (221a) can be maintained, and contact between the second driving cam portion (275) and the second driven cam portion (222a) can be maintained. Accordingly, vibration or noise of the hinge assembly (200) caused by a difference between the rotation angle (R1) of the first gear (261) and the rotation angle (R2) of the second gear (262) can be reduced.

[0106] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a first connecting portion (221b) extending from the first driven cam portion (221a) toward the second cam member (222). The first connecting portion (221b) may be positioned between the first elastic body (281) and the first driven cam portion (221a). As an example, the first connecting portion (221b) may extend along a direction (e.g., an X-axis direction) from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212).

[0107] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member (222) may include a second connecting portion (222b) extending from the second driven cam portion (222a) toward the first cam member (221). The second connecting portion (222b) may be positioned between the second elastic body (282) and the second driven cam portion (222a). As an example, the second connecting portion (222b) may extend along a direction (e.g., an X-axis direction) from the second shaft (212) toward the first shaft (211).

[0108] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a first locking portion (221c) that engages with a second locking portion (222c) of the second cam member (222). The first locking portion (221c) may be connected to a first connecting portion (221b) of the first cam member (221). The second cam member (222) may include a second locking portion (222c) that engages with the first locking portion (221c) of the first cam member (221). The second locking portion (222c) may be connected to a second connecting portion (222b) of the second cam member (222).

[0109] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first shaft (211) can pass through the first driven cam portion (221a) and the first connecting portion (221b). The second shaft (212) can pass through the second driven cam portion (222a) and the second connecting portion (222b). The first locking portion (221c) and the second locking portion (222c) can be positioned between the first shaft (211) and the second shaft (212). The engagement structure between the first locking portion (221c) of the first cam member (221) and the second locking portion (222c) of the second cam member (222) will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0110] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the width (T2) of the first locking portion (221c) defined in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211) may be greater than the width (T1) of the first connecting portion (221b). The width (T4) of the second locking portion (222c) defined in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the second shaft (212) may be greater than the width (T3) of the second connecting portion (222b).

[0111] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of cam members (221, 222) illustrating a state in which the cam members (221, 222) are separated from each other according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of cam members (221, 222) illustrating a state in which the cam members (221, 222) are interlocked with each other according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10 , according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a protruding portion (221c). The second cam member (222) may include a recessed portion (222c) configured to receive the protruding portion (221c). The recessed portion (222c) may be interlocked with the protruding portion (221c). By inserting the protruding portion (221c) into the recessed portion (222c), the rotation of the first cam member (221) relative to the first shaft (211) and the rotation of the second cam member (222) relative to the second shaft (212) may be restricted.

[0113] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a first hole (221h) through which the first shaft (211) passes. A plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f) of the first cam member (221) may be arranged around the first hole (221h) to surround the first hole (221h). The second cam member (222) may include a second hole (222h) through which the second shaft (212) passes. A plurality of protrusions (222d, 222e, 222f) of the second cam member (222) may be arranged around the second hole (222h) to surround the second hole (222h).

[0114] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion (221c) may correspond to the first locking portion (221c) described with reference to FIG. 8 and may be understood as an example of the first locking portion (221c). The recessed portion (222c) may correspond to the second locking portion (222c) described with reference to FIG. 8 and may be understood as an example of the second locking portion (222c).

[0115] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion (222c) may be recessed in a direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction) from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212). The recessed portion (222c) may include a groove (222g) extending along the second shaft (212). The groove (222g) may have a longitudinal end (222o) that is open to the outside (e.g., in the Y-axis direction). As an example, the groove (222g) may be open at both ends in the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the Y-axis direction).

[0116] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion (221c) may protrude in a direction from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212). The protruding portion (221c) may include a rib (221r) extending along the first shaft (211). The rib (221r) may be configured to be inserted into a groove (222g).

[0117] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the length (GL) of the groove (222g) extended along the second shaft (212) may be greater than the height (H1) of the plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f) of the first driven cam portion (221a) protruding from the first connecting portion (221b) along the first shaft (211). As an example, the length (GL) of the groove (222g) may be three times or more the height (H1) of the plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f) of the first driven cam portion (221a).

[0118] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the length (GL) of the groove (222g) extending along the second shaft (212) may be greater than the height (H2) of the plurality of protrusions (222d, 222e, 222f) of the second driven cam portion (222a) protruding from the second connecting portion (222b) along the second shaft (212). As an example, the length (GL) of the groove (222g) may be three times or more the height (H2) of the plurality of protrusions (222d, 222e, 222f) of the second driven cam portion (222a).

[0119] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the end (221p) of the rib (221r) of the protruding portion (221c) may be spaced apart from the groove (222g) of the recessed portion (222c) by a first distance (G1). The side surface (221k) of the rib (221r) of the protruding portion (221c) may be spaced apart from the groove (222g) of the recessed portion (222c) by a second distance (G2) (or a third distance (G3)). The first distance (G1) may be greater than the second distance (G2) and the third distance (G3). As an example, the second distance (G2) and the third distance (G3) may be 0.02 mm to 0.05 mm, and the first distance (G1) may be greater than 0.05 mm.

[0120] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the edge (221s) of the end (221p) of the rib (221r) of the protruding portion (221c) and / or the edge (222s) of the groove (222g) of the recessed portion (222c) may have a chamfer shape or a round shape. Accordingly, the protruding portion (221c) can be smoothly inserted into the recessed portion (222c).

[0121] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining that the rotational forces acting on the first cam member (221) and the second cam member (222) are offset by the first arm (271) and the second arm (272) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and illustrates the first cam member (221) and the second cam member (222) in an interlocked state. The points of action and directions of action of the rotational forces illustrated in FIG. 11 are exemplary and may vary as the designs of the cam members (221, 222) are changed, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 11, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first driven cam portion (221a, see FIG. 8) of a first cam member (221) may include a plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f). A second driven cam portion (222a, see FIG. 8) of a second cam member (222) may include a plurality of protrusions (222d, 222e, 222f). When the first arm (271) rotates together with the first shaft (211), the first arm (271) (e.g., the plurality of protrusions (274) of the first driving cam portion (273) of FIG. 8) may apply a rotational force to the plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f). Additionally, when the second arm (272) rotates together with the second shaft (212), the second arm (272) (e.g., the plurality of protrusions (276) of the second driving cam portion (275) of FIG. 8) can apply a rotational force to the plurality of protrusions (222d, 222e, 222f).

[0123] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the rotational force may include a force capable of causing rotation of the first cam member (221) or the second cam member (222). As an example, a force in the direction of the rotational axis (e.g., Y-axis direction) applied to the first cam member (221) during the process of rotating the first arm (271) is not included in the rotational force, and a force acting in a direction perpendicular to the force in the direction of the rotational axis (e.g., X-axis direction or Z-axis direction) may be included in the rotational force.

[0124] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of protrusions of the first driven cam portion (221a, see FIG. 8) may include a first-first protrusion (221d), a first-second protrusion (221e), and a first-third protrusion (221f). When the first arm (271) rotates, the rotational force transmitted to the first cam member (221) may include a first-first force (F11) acting on the first-first protrusion (221d), a first-second force (F12) acting on the first-second protrusion (221e), and a first-third force (F13) acting on the first-third protrusion (221f).

[0125] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of protrusions of the second driven cam portion (222a, see FIG. 8) may include a second-first protrusion (222d), a second-second protrusion (222e), and a second-third protrusion (222f). When the second arm (272) rotates, the rotational force transmitted to the second cam member (222) may include a second-first force (F21) acting on the second-first protrusion (222d), a second-second force (F22) acting on the second-second protrusion (222e), and a second-third force (F23) acting on the second-third protrusion (222f).

[0126] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first locking portion (221c) of the first cam member (221) and the second locking portion (222c) of the second cam member (222) are engaged with each other, the rotational force transmitted to the first cam member (221) by the first arm (271) and the rotational force transmitted to the second cam member (222) by the second arm (272) can cancel each other out.

[0127] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the rotational force can be decomposed into a first component parallel to a first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 10) and a second component parallel to a second direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIG. 10) perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 10). As described below, the first component may mean a force in a direction parallel to the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 10), and the second component may mean a force in a direction parallel to the second direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction of FIG. 10).

[0128] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the 1-1 force (F11) can be decomposed into a first component (F111) and a second component (F112). The 1-3 force (F13) can be decomposed into a first component (F131) and a second component (F132). The 1-2 force (F12) can be understood as a force that acts in parallel with the second direction. The 2-1 force (F21) can be decomposed into a first component (F211) and a second component (F212). The 2-3 force (F23) can be decomposed into a first component (F231) and a second component (F232). The 2-2 force (F22) can be understood as a force that acts in parallel with the second direction.

[0129] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking portion (221c) of the first cam member (221) and the second locking portion (222c) of the second cam member (222) are engaged with each other, so that the first component (F111) of the 1-1 force (F11) and the first component (F211) of the 2-1 force (F21) can cancel each other out. In addition, the first component (F111) of the 1-1 force (F11) and the first component (F211) of the 2-1 force (F21) can cancel each other out. In addition, the first component (F131) of the 1-3 force (F13) and the first component (F231) of the 2-3 force (F23) can cancel each other out. The sum of the second component (F112) of the first-first force (F11), the second component (F132) of the first-second force (F12), and the second component (F13) of the first-third force (F13) may be 0. In addition, the sum of the second component (F212) of the second-first force (F21), the second component (F232) of the second-second force (F22), and the second-third force (F23) may be 0. Accordingly, the rotation of the first cam member (221) may be limited by the second cam member (222), and the rotation of the second cam member (222) may be limited by the first cam member (221).

[0130] Fig. 12 illustrates an operation process of a cam member (220') of a hinge assembly according to a comparative embodiment. The foldable electronic device of the comparative embodiment may be substantially the same as the foldable electronic device (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described with reference to Figs. 1 to 11, except that one cam member (220') contacts both a first arm (e.g., a first driving cam portion (273) of Fig. 8) and a second arm (e.g., a second driving cam portion (275) of Fig. 8).

[0131] FIG. 13 is a graph showing, according to angle, a repulsive force generated during the unfolding process of a foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and a foldable electronic device according to the comparative embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12. The X-line illustrated in FIG. 13 is a graph corresponding to the comparative embodiment, and the Y-line is a graph corresponding to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] The 'angle' illustrated in the graph of FIG. 13 may include the angle formed by the first housing (110, see FIG. 3) and the second housing (120, see FIG. 3) of the foldable electronic device (100). The 'repulsive force' illustrated in the graph of FIG. 13 may be proportional to the force applied to the foldable electronic device (100) during the process of folding or unfolding the foldable electronic device (100). As an example, the 'repulsive force' may include the repulsive force by the flexible display (130, see FIG. 1) and the repulsive force by the elastic body (280, see FIG. 3).

[0133] Referring to FIG. 12, the cam member (220') of the comparative example may include a first driven cam portion (221a') configured to contact a first driving cam portion (273) of a first arm (271, see FIG. 4) and a second driven cam portion (222a') configured to contact a second driving cam portion (275) of a second arm (272, see FIG. 4).

[0134] When a difference occurs in the rotation angles of the first gear (261) and the second gear (262) described with reference to FIG. 7, a difference occurs in the rotation angles of the first arm (271, see FIG. 4) and the second arm (272, see FIG. 4), so that the distance that the first driven cam part (221a') moves along the first shaft (211) may be longer than the distance that the second driven cam part (222a') moves along the second shaft (212). At this time, the cam member (220') may contact one of the first driving cam part (273) and the second driving cam part (275) but not the other. FIG. 12 illustrates a case where the cam member (220') contacts the first driving cam part (273) but does not contact the second driving cam part (275) and a gap (I) is formed therebetween. Accordingly, in the case of the comparative example, since neither the first driven cam part (221a') nor the second driven cam part (222a') contacts the first driving cam part (273) nor the second driving cam part (275), a feeling of incongruity or a collision between parts may occur during the process of folding or unfolding the foldable electronic device (100).

[0135] Referring to Fig. 13, in the case of the X-diagram representing the comparative example, it can be confirmed that the repulsive force changes rapidly, and in the case of the Y-diagram representing the embodiment of the present disclosure, it can be confirmed that the repulsive force changes relatively gradually compared to the X-diagram. Therefore, since the first cam member (221, see Fig. 8) and the second cam member (222, see Fig. 8) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are engaged to enable relative movement with respect to each other along the first shaft (211) or the second shaft (212), the occurrence of the above-described foreign feeling can be reduced.

[0136] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device (100) illustrating a pad (166) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 14, a foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a pad (166). The pad (166) may be positioned between the hinge cover (165) and the first locking portion (221c) of the first cam member (221). The pad (166) may be positioned between the hinge cover (165) and the second locking portion (222c) of the second cam member (222). The pad (166) may be supported by the inner surface of the hinge cover (165). As an example, the pad (166) may be attached to the inner surface of the hinge cover (165).

[0138] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, during the operation of the hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 4), even if the first cam member (221) and the second cam member (222) are separated from each other and collide with a surrounding structure (e.g., a hinge cover (165)), the collision and noise can be mitigated by the pad (166). As an example, the pad (166) can be formed of a urethane material.

[0139] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of cam members (1221, 1222) showing a state in which the cam members (1221, 1222) are interlocked with each other according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the cam members (1221, 1222) taken along the line BB' shown in FIG. 15.

[0140] The description of the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 (e.g., the first cam member (221), the second cam member (222), the projections (221d, 221e, 221f) of the first cam member (221), the first connecting portion (221b), the first locking portion (221c), the rib (221r), the projections (222d, 222e, 222f) of the second cam member (222), the second connecting portion (222b), the second locking portion (222c), or the groove (222g)) is the same as the description of the components with the same names shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 (e.g., the first cam member (1221), the second cam member (1222), the projections (1221d, 1221e, 1221f) of the first cam member (1221), the first connecting portion (221b), the first locking portion (221c), the rib (221r), the projections (222d, 222e, 222f) of the second cam member (222), the second connecting portion (222b), the second locking portion (222c), or the groove (222g)). The same can be applied substantially to the projections (1222d, 1222e, 1222f) of the part (1221b), the first locking part (1221c), the rib (1221r), the second cam member (1222), the second connecting part (1222b), the second locking part (1222c), or the groove (1222g)) within a range where they are not arranged with each other.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a first locking portion (1221c) and a second locking portion (1222c) may be engaged with each other. The first locking portion (1221c) may include a rib (1221r). The first locking portion (1221c) may be referred to as a protruding portion (1221c). The rib (1221r) of the protruding portion (1221c) may be defined in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211, see FIG. 4) and may have a width (W3) smaller than a predetermined length (W4) of a groove (1222g). The rib (1221r) may be spaced apart from the groove (1222g) in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211).

[0142] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second locking portion (1222c) may include a groove (1222g) configured to insert a rib (1221r). The second locking portion (1222c) may be referred to as a recessed portion (1222c). The recessed portion (1222c) may include a groove (1222g) that extends along the second shaft (212, see FIG. 4) by a predetermined length (W4). During the operation of the hinge assembly (200, see FIG. 4), the rib (1221r) may move along the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211, see FIG. 4) within the groove (1222g).

[0143] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of cam members (2221, 2222) showing a state in which the cam members (2221, 2222) are separated from each other, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] The description of the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 (e.g., the first cam member (221), the second cam member (222), the first driven cam portion (221a) of the first cam member (221), the first connecting portion (221b), the first locking portion (221c), the second driven cam portion (222a) of the second cam member (222), the second connecting portion (222b), the first hole (221h), the second hole (222h), or the second locking portion (222c)) is the same as the description of the components with the same names shown in FIG. 17 (e.g., the first cam member (2221), the second cam member (2222), the first driven cam portion (2221a) of the first cam member (2221), the first connecting portion (2221b), the first locking portion (2221c), the second driven cam portion (2221) of the second cam member (2222) It can be applied substantially equally to the cam portion (2222a), the second connecting portion (2222b), the first hole (2221h), the second hole (2222h), or the second locking portion (2222c) within a range where they are not arranged with each other.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 17, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a hinge assembly (200) may include a pin (2223) coupled to a first cam member (2221) and a second cam member (2222). The pin (2223) may extend along the first shaft (211, see FIG. 4). The pin (2223) may be inserted into the first cam member (2221) and the second cam member (2222). The pin (2223) may be inserted into the first locking portion (2221c) or may pass through the first opening (2221o) of the first locking portion (2221c). The pin (2223) may be inserted into the second locking portion (2222c) or may pass through the second opening (2222o) of the second locking portion (2222c).

[0146] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking portion (2221c) may include a first surface (2221k) facing a second surface (2222k) of the second locking portion (2222c). The first surface (2221k) of the first locking portion (2221c) and the second surface (2222k) of the second locking portion (2222c) may be adjacent to each other.

[0147] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (2221) may be limited in rotation about the first shaft (211) by a first shaft (211, see FIG. 4) and a pin (2223). The second cam member (2222) may be limited in rotation about the second shaft (212) by a second shaft (212, see FIG. 4) and a pin (2223).

[0148] FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of cam members (3221, 3222) showing the cam members (3221, 3222) separated from each other, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0149] The description of the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 (e.g., the first cam member (221), the second cam member (222), the first driven cam portion (221a) of the first cam member (221), the first connecting portion (221b), the first locking portion (221c), the second driven cam portion (222a) of the second cam member (222), the second connecting portion (222b), the first hole (221h), the second hole (222h), or the second locking portion (222c)) is the same as the description of the components with the same names shown in FIG. 18 (e.g., the first cam member (3221), the second cam member (3222), the first driven cam portion (3221a) of the first cam member (3221), the first connecting portion (3221b), the first locking portion (3221c), the second driven cam portion (3221) of the second cam member (3222) It can be applied substantially equally to the cam portion (3222a), the second connecting portion (3222b), the first hole (3221h), the second hole (3222h), or the second locking portion (3222c) within a range where they are not arranged with each other.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 18, a hinge assembly (200) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include pins (3223) coupled to a first cam member (3221) and a second cam member (3222). The plurality of pins (3223) may include a first pin and a second pin spaced apart from the first pin in a direction orthogonal to an axial direction (e.g., a Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211) (e.g., an X-axis direction or a Z-axis direction). The plurality of pins (3223) may extend along the first shaft (211, see FIG. 4). The plurality of pins (3223) may be inserted into the first cam member (3221) and the second cam member (3222). A plurality of pins (3223) can be inserted into the first locking portion (3221c) or pass through the first openings (3221o) of the first locking portion (3221c). A plurality of pins (3223) can be inserted into the second locking portion (3222c) or pass through the second openings (3222o) of the second locking portion (3222c).

[0151] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (3221) may be limited in rotation about the first shaft (211, see FIG. 4) and a plurality of pins (3223). The second cam member (3222) may be limited in rotation about the second shaft (212, see FIG. 4) and a plurality of pins (3223).

[0152] FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of cam members (4221, 4222) showing a state in which the cam members (4221, 4222) are separated from each other, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] The description of the components described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 (e.g., the first cam member (221), the second cam member (222), the first driven cam portion (221a) of the first cam member (221), the first connecting portion (221b), the first locking portion (221c), the second driven cam portion (222a) of the second cam member (222), the second connecting portion (222b), the first hole (221h), the second hole (222h), or the second locking portion (222c)) is the same as the description of the components with the same names shown in FIG. 19 (e.g., the first cam member (4221), the second cam member (4222), the first driven cam portion (4221a) of the first cam member (4221), the first connecting portion (4221b), the first locking portion (4221c), the second driven cam portion (4221) of the second cam member (4222) It can be applied substantially equally to the cam portion (4222a), the second connecting portion (4222b), the first hole (4221h), the second hole (4222h), or the second locking portion (4222c) within a range where they are not arranged with each other.

[0154] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking portion (4221c) may include a recessed portion (4221g) that is recessed in the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211). The second locking portion (4222c) may include a protruding portion (4222r) configured to be inserted into the recessed portion (4221g). The protruding portion (4222r) may move along the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the first shaft (211, see FIG. 4) within the recessed portion (4221g).

[0155] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion (4221g) and the protruding portion (4222r) may be engaged with each other to limit rotation of the first cam member (4221) relative to the first shaft (211, see FIG. 4). The recessed portion (4221g) and the protruding portion (4222r) may be engaged with each other to limit rotation of the second cam member (4222) relative to the second shaft (212, see FIG. 4).

[0156] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion (4221g) may at least partially cover a side surface of the protruding portion (4222r) facing the first shaft (211) or the second shaft (212). The recessed portion (4221g) may engage the side surface of the protruding portion (4222r) to limit rotation of the first cam member (4221).

[0157] Two meshed gears can form backlash between their tooth flanks to minimize damage to the gear teeth. However, in the case of a gear train including multiple gears (e.g., four), the backlash between the multiple gears can accumulate, resulting in different rotational angles of the two spaced-apart gears. As a result, structures linked to the two spaced-apart gears (e.g., shafts, cam members, etc.) may not operate smoothly, and a foreign sensation may be transmitted to the user during the folding and / or unfolding process of the hinge assembly. Therefore, much research is being conducted on the structure of the hinge assembly that can improve the foreign sensation.

[0158] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure may be to provide a hinge assembly structure that can improve the heterogeneity that occurs during operation of the hinge assembly due to the accumulation of the above-mentioned backlash.

[0159] The problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0160] An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can improve the sense of incongruity that occurs during the operation of a hinge assembly by separately configuring a member linked to two gears having different rotation angles due to the backlash.

[0161] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0162] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device (100) may include a first housing (110) and a second housing (120).

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device (100) may include a hinge assembly (200) configured to rotate the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0164] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device (100) may include a flexible display (130) disposed in the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0165] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a gear train (260) including a first gear (261) configured to rotate in a first rotational direction, and a second gear (262) configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0166] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first shaft (211) connected to the first gear (261).

[0167] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a second shaft (212) connected to the second gear (262) and extending along the first shaft (211).

[0168] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first arm (271) coupled to the first shaft (211) so as to rotate together with the first shaft (211).

[0169] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first arm (271) may be configured to rotate the first housing (210).

[0170] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a second arm (272) coupled to the second shaft (212) so as to rotate together with the second shaft (212).

[0171] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second arm (272) may be configured to rotate the second housing (120).

[0172] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a first cam member (221; 1221; 2221; 3221; 4221) that contacts the first arm (271) so as to move along the first shaft (211) while the first arm (271) is rotated.

[0173] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may include a second cam member (222; 1222; 2222; 3222; 4222) that contacts the second arm (272) to move along the second shaft (212) while the second arm (272) is rotated.

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member (222; 1222; 2222; 3222; 4222) can be interlocked with the first cam member (221).

[0175] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221; 1221; 2221; 3221; 4221) can move relative to the second cam member (222; 1222; 2222; 3222; 4222) along the first shaft (211).

[0176] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a protruding portion (221c).

[0177] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member (222) may include a recessed portion (222c) configured to receive the protruding portion (221c).

[0178] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion (222c) can be interlocked with the protruding portion (221c) to limit rotation of the first cam member (221) relative to the first shaft (211).

[0179] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sunken portion (222c) can be sunken in a direction from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212).

[0180] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion (221c) may protrude in a direction from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212).

[0181] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion (222c) may include a groove (222g) extending along the second shaft (212).

[0182] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the groove (222g) may have a longitudinal end (222o) that is open to the outside.

[0183] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion (1222c) may include a groove (1222g) extending along the second shaft (212) by a predetermined length (W4).

[0184] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion (1221c) is defined in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211) and may have a width (W3) smaller than the predetermined length (W4).

[0185] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the protruding portion (1221c) may include a rib (1221r) spaced apart from the groove (1222g) in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211).

[0186] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a first driven cam portion (221a) facing and in contact with a first driving cam portion (274) of the first arm (271).

[0187] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a first connecting portion (221b) extending from the first driven cam portion (221a) toward the second cam member (222).

[0188] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a first locking portion (221c) that is connected to the first connecting portion (221b) and engages with the second locking portion (222c) of the second cam member (222).

[0189] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first shaft (211) can penetrate the first driven cam portion (221a) and the connecting portion (221b).

[0190] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking portion (221c) may be positioned between the first shaft (211) and the second shaft (212).

[0191] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the width (T2) of the first locking portion (221c) defined in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211) may be greater than the width (T1) of the first connecting portion (221b).

[0192] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a rib (221r) that protrudes in a first direction from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212) and extends along the first shaft (211).

[0193] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member (222) may include a groove (222g) that is recessed in the first direction, into which the rib (221r) is inserted, and extends along the second shaft (212).

[0194] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first gap (G1) between a protruding end (221p) of the rib (221r) and the groove (222g) may be greater than a second gap (G2, G3) between a side surface (221k) of the rib (221r) and the groove (222g).

[0195] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (221) may include a first driven cam portion (221a) that includes a plurality of projections (221d, 221e, 221f) that protrude along the first shaft (211) toward the first driving cam portion (273) of the first arm (271) and engage with the first driving cam portion (273).

[0196] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the length (GL) of the groove (222g) extended along the second shaft may be greater than the height (H1) of the plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f) protruding along the first shaft (211).

[0197] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (4221) may include a first driven cam portion (4221a) that contacts the first driving cam portion (273) of the first arm (271).

[0198] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first cam member (4221) may include a recessed portion (4221g) recessed in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211).

[0199] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member (4222) may include a second driven cam portion (4222a) that contacts the second driving cam portion (275) of the second arm (272).

[0200] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cam member (4222) may include a protruding portion (4222r) that is inserted into the recessed portion (4221g) and is movable along the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211) within the recessed portion (4221g).

[0201] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the sunken portion (4221g) and the protruding portion (4222r) can be engaged with each other to limit rotation of the first cam member (4221) relative to the first shaft (211).

[0202] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion (4221g) may at least partially cover a side surface of the protruding portion (4222r) facing the first shaft (211) or the second shaft (212).

[0203] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recessed portion (4221g) can engage with the side surface of the protruding portion (4222r) to limit rotation of the first cam member (4221).

[0204] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (200) may extend along the first shaft (211) and include at least one pin (2223; 3223) inserted into the first cam member (2221; 3221) and the second cam member (2222; 3222).

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the pin (3223) may include a first pin and a second pin spaced apart from the first pin in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the first shaft (211).

[0206] Although the detailed description of this document has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this document.

Claims

1. In foldable electronic devices, First housing (110); Second housing (120); A hinge assembly (200) configured to rotate the first housing (110) and the second housing (120); and It includes a flexible display (130) arranged in the first housing (110) and the second housing (120), The above hinge assembly (200): A gear train (260) comprising a first gear (261) configured to rotate in a first rotational direction, and a second gear (262) configured to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction; A first shaft (211) connected to the first gear (261); A second shaft (212) connected to the second gear (262) and extending along the first shaft (211); A first arm (271) coupled to the first shaft (211) so as to rotate together with the first shaft (211) and configured to rotate the first housing (210); A second arm (272) coupled to the second shaft (212) so as to rotate together with the second shaft (212) and configured to rotate the second housing (120); A first cam member (221; 1221; 2221; 3221; 4221) that contacts the first arm (271) so as to move along the first shaft (211) while the first arm (271) rotates; and A second cam member (222; 1222; 2222; 3222; 4222) that contacts the second arm (272) and interlocks with the first cam member (221) so as to move along the second shaft (212) while the second arm (272) rotates, The above first cam member (221; 1221; 2221; 3221; 4221) is A foldable electronic device movable relative to the second cam member (222; 1222; 2222; 3222; 4222) along the first shaft (211).

2. In paragraph 1, The above first cam member (221) includes a protruding portion (221c), The above second cam member (222) is A foldable electronic device comprising a recessed portion (222c) configured to accommodate the protruding portion (221c) and interlocked with the protruding portion (221c) to limit rotation of the first cam member (221) relative to the first shaft (211).

3. In paragraph 2, The above-mentioned sunken portion (222c) is sunken in the direction from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212), The above protruding portion (221c) is a foldable electronic device that protrudes in a direction from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212).

4. In paragraph 3, The above sunken portion (222c) is A foldable electronic device including a groove (222g) extending along the second shaft (212) and having a longitudinal end (222o) open to the outside.

5. In paragraph 3, The above sunken portion (1222c) is It includes a groove (1222g) extended by a predetermined length (W4) along the second shaft (212), The above protruding portion (1221c) is A foldable electronic device having a rib (1221r) defined in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211) and having a width (W3) smaller than the predetermined length (W4) and spaced apart from the groove (1222g) in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211).

6. In either paragraph 1 or paragraph 5, The above first cam member (221): A first driven cam portion (221a) facing and in contact with the first driving cam portion (274) of the first arm (271); A first connecting portion (221b) extending from the first driven cam portion (221a) toward the second cam member (222); and A foldable electronic device comprising a first locking portion (221c) connected to the first connecting portion (221b) and interlocked with a second locking portion (222c) of the second cam member (222).

7. In paragraph 6, The above first shaft (211) is Penetrating through the first driven cam part (221a) and the connecting part (221b), The above first locking part (221c) is A foldable electronic device positioned between the first shaft (211) and the second shaft (212).

8. In paragraph 7, A foldable electronic device in which the width (T2) of the first locking portion (221c) defined in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211) is greater than the width (T1) of the first connecting portion (221b).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above first cam member (221) is It includes a rib (221r) protruding in a first direction from the first shaft (211) toward the second shaft (212) and extending along the first shaft (211), The above second cam member (222) is A foldable electronic device comprising a groove (222g) that is sunken in the first direction, into which the rib (221r) is inserted, and extends along the second shaft (212).

10. In paragraph 9, A foldable electronic device in which a first gap (G1) between a protruding end (221p) of the rib (221r) and the groove (222g) is greater than a second gap (G2, G3) between a side surface (221k) of the rib (221r) and the groove (222g).

11. In paragraph 9, The above first cam member (221) is It includes a first driven cam portion (221a) that protrudes toward the first driving cam portion (273) of the first arm (271) along the first shaft (211) and includes a plurality of projections (221d, 221e, 221f) that engage with the first driving cam portion (273). A foldable electronic device in which the length (GL) of the groove (222g) extended along the second shaft is greater than the height (H1) of the plurality of protrusions (221d, 221e, 221f) protruding along the first shaft (211).

12. In paragraph 1, The above first cam member (4221) is A first driven cam portion (4221a) in contact with the first driving cam portion (273) of the first arm (271); and Including a recessed portion (4221g) that is recessed in the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211), The above second cam member (4222) is A second driven cam portion (4222a) in contact with the second driving cam portion (275) of the second arm (272); and A foldable electronic device including a protruding portion (4222r) inserted into the recessed portion (4221g) and movable along the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (211) within the recessed portion (4221g).

13. In paragraph 12, The above sunken part (4221g) and protruding part (4222r) are A foldable electronic device interlocked with each other to limit the rotation of the first cam member (4221) based on the first shaft (211).

14. In paragraph 13, The above sunken part (4221g) is A foldable electronic device that at least partially covers the side surface of the protruding portion (4222r) facing the first shaft (211) or the second shaft (212) and engages with the side surface of the protruding portion (4222r) to limit rotation of the first cam member (4221).

15. In paragraph 1, The above hinge assembly (200) is A foldable electronic device further comprising at least one pin (2223; 3223) extending along the first shaft (211) and inserted into the first cam member (2221; 3221) and the second cam member (2222; 3222).

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