Electronic device comprising structure for protecting edge of flexible display

Abstract

A multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may comprise: a housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing; a first hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing to the second housing; and a second hinge assembly rotatably connecting the second housing to the third housing and being wider than the first hinge assembly. The multi-foldable electronic device may comprise: a flexible display including a second portion supported by the second housing, a third portion supported by the third housing, and a second folding portion between the second portion and the third portion; and a cover disposed in a partial area of the flexible display so as to prevent the introduction of foreign substances from the outside. The cover can include an elastic member, and a rigid member coupled to a partial area of the elastic member.

Description

An electronic device comprising a structure for protecting the edges of a flexible display

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a structure for protecting an edge of a flexible display.

[0002] As user demands diversify, electronic devices may include a structure that allows the display to be deformable for displaying content. For example, an electronic device may include a foldable, flexible display. To reduce damage to the edges of the deformable display due to external impact, the electronic device may require a structure to protect the edges of the display.

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

[0004] A multi-foldable electronic device is disclosed. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second hinge assembly rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing and having a wider width than the first hinge assembly. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a flexible display including a first portion supported by the first housing, a second portion supported by the second housing, a third portion supported by the third housing, a first folding portion between the first portion and the second portion, and a second folding portion between the second portion and the third portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a cover disposed on at least a portion of the flexible display and configured to prevent foreign matter from entering from the outside. The cover may include an elastic member and a rigid member coupled to a portion of the elastic member.

[0005] A multi-foldable electronic device is disclosed. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second hinge assembly rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing and having a wider width than the first hinge assembly. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a flexible display including a first portion supported by the first housing, a second portion supported by the second housing, a third portion supported by the third housing, a first folding portion, and a second folding portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may include an elastic member disposed on a portion of an edge of the second portion, a portion of an edge of the third portion, and an edge of the second folding portion on the second hinge assembly disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a rigid member that is coupled to the elastic member so as to be positioned on the part of the edge of the second part and the part of the edge of the third part, and has a rigidity greater than that of the elastic member.

[0006] A multi-foldable electronic device is disclosed. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second hinge assembly rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing and having a wider width than the first hinge assembly. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a flexible display including a first portion supported by the first housing, a second portion supported by the second housing, a third portion supported by the third housing, a first folding portion that is at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly and extends from the first portion to the second portion, and a second folding portion that is at least partially deformable by the second hinge assembly and extends from the second portion to the third portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first elastic member disposed on at least a portion of the first portion, at least a portion of the second portion, and an edge of the first folding portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second elastic member disposed on at least another portion of the second portion, at least a portion of the third portion, and an edge of the second folding portion, the second elastic member having a longer length than the first elastic member. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first protective member coupled to the first hinge assembly and including a first protrusion positioned at least partially over the first elastic member. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second protective member coupled to the second hinge assembly and including a second protrusion positioned at least partially over the second elastic member and having a larger width than the first protrusion.

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

[0008] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0009] Figure 2b illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0010] FIG. 3A is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state with the flexible display removed.

[0011] FIG. 3b is a rear view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state with the back cover and display removed.

[0012] FIG. 4A illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary first state.

[0013] FIG. 4b is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device taken along line A-A' of FIG. 4a.

[0014] Figures 4c and 4d illustrate a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary second state.

[0015] Figures 4e and 4f illustrate a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary first state.

[0016] FIG. 5A is a partially exploded perspective view of an electronic device in an exemplary first state.

[0017] FIGS. 5b and 5c illustrate portions of an exemplary electronic device within an exemplary first state.

[0018] FIG. 5d illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary second state.

[0019] Figures 5e, 5f, and 5g illustrate portions of exemplary electronic devices.

[0020] Figure 5h illustrates an elastic member of an exemplary electronic device.

[0021] Figures 6a and 6b illustrate a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary first state.

[0022] Figure 6c is a partially exploded perspective view of an electronic device in an exemplary first state.

[0023] FIG. 6d illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary first state.

[0024] FIG. 6e is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device in an exemplary first state taken along line B-B' of FIG. 6a.

[0025] FIG. 6f is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device in an exemplary first state taken along line C-C' of FIG. 6b.

[0026] FIG. 6g is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device in an exemplary first state taken along line D-D' of FIG. 6d.

[0027] Figure 6h is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device in an exemplary first state.

[0028] FIG. 7A illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary second state.

[0029] Figure 7b illustrates a protective member of an exemplary electronic device.

[0030] Figure 8 illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary second state.

[0031] FIG. 9A is a side view of an electronic device in an exemplary third state.

[0032] FIG. 9b illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary second state.

[0033] Figure 10 illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device.

[0034] The terms used in this disclosure are used merely to describe specific examples and are not intended to limit other examples. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Terms and words used in this disclosure, including technical or scientific terms, may have substantially the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art. Terms commonly defined in dictionaries may be interpreted in the context to have substantially the same or similar meaning in the relevant technical field. However, unless otherwise defined in this disclosure, such terms should not be construed as idealistic or overly formal, and even if a term is defined in this disclosure, such terms should not be construed to exclude examples of this disclosure depending on a particular situation.

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

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

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

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

[0039] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0040] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0041] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0042] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

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

[0044] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0045] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0046] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0047] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

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

[0049] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

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

[0051] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0052] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0053] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

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

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

[0056] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

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

[0058] Figure 2a illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Figure 2b illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, an electronic device (101) includes a housing (200), a flexible display (240), a first hinge assembly (250), and a second hinge assembly (260). The housing (200) includes a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). The housing (200) may be referred to as a foldable housing in that it includes multiple housing parts (210, 220, 230) and can be folded multiple times. The electronic device (101) may be referred to as a multi-foldable electronic device in that it includes a housing (200) and / or a flexible display (240) that can be folded multiple times. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0060] The first housing part (210) is rotatably coupled to the second housing part (220) by the first hinge assembly (250). The second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) are rotatable with respect to the first hinge assembly (250). While the first housing part (210) rotates with respect to the first hinge assembly (250), the second housing part (220) rotates with respect to the first hinge assembly (250). For example, when the second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) rotate with respect to the first hinge assembly (250), the angular displacement of the second housing part (220) may be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the first housing part (210).

[0061] The third housing part (230) is rotatably coupled to the second housing part (220) by the second hinge assembly (260). The second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) are rotatable with respect to the second hinge assembly (260). While the second housing part (220) rotates with respect to the second hinge assembly (260), the third housing part (230) rotates with respect to the second hinge assembly (260). For example, when the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) rotate with respect to the second hinge assembly (260), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (220) may be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the third housing part (230).

[0062] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) are operable to change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) provide (or enable) a first state (101a) of the electronic device (101) (or a first state (101a) of the housing (200)). The first state (101a) of the electronic device (101) (or the first state (101a) of the housing (200)) can be described as an unfolded state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)). Within the first state (101a), the front surface of the first housing part (210), the front surface of the second housing part (220), and the front surface of the third housing part (230) define the front surface of the electronic device (101). Within the first state (101a), the front of the first housing part (210), the front of the second housing part (220), and the front of the third housing part (230) face the same direction. Within the first state (101a), the electronic device (101) provides a large display area of ​​the flexible display (240) to the user.

[0063] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) provide a second state (101b) of the electronic device (101) (or a second state (101b) of the housing (200)). The second state (101b) of the electronic device (101) (or the second state (101b) of the housing (200)) can be described as a multi-folded state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)). Within the second state (101b), the front surface of the first housing part (210) and the front surface of the second housing part (220) face opposite directions, and the front surface of the second housing part (220) and the front surface of the third housing part (230) face opposite directions. Within the second state (101b), the front surface of the first housing part (210) and the front surface of the third housing part (230) face the same direction. For example, within the second state (101b), the front of the second housing part (220) faces the front of the first housing part (210), and the front of the third housing part (230) faces the rear of the first housing part (210). Within the second state (101b), the electronic device (101) is folded to enhance portability.

[0064] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) provide a third state of the electronic device (101). The third state of the electronic device (101) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (101) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folded state or a semi-folded state). For example, within the third state, the front surface of the second housing part (220) and the front surface of the third housing part (230) face the same direction, and the front surface of the first housing part (210) and the front surface of the second housing part (220) face opposite directions. For example, within the third state, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are folded, and the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) are unfolded.

[0065] A flexible display (240) at least partially defines the exterior of the electronic device (101). The flexible display (240) is partially disposed within the housing (200). The flexible display (240) defines the front surface of the electronic device (101). The flexible display (240) includes a first unbendable portion (241), a second unbendable portion (242), a third unbendable portion (243), a first bendable portion (244), and a second bendable portion (245). The first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) is disposed on the front surface of the first housing part (210). The second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) is disposed on the front surface of the second housing part (220). The third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240) is disposed on the front side of the third housing part (230). The first bendable part (244) of the flexible display (240) is disposed between the first unbendable part (241) and the third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the first bendable part (244) of the flexible display (240) is disposed on the first hinge assembly (250) connecting the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The second bendable part (245) of the flexible display (240) is disposed between the second unbendable part (242) and the third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) is placed on the second hinge assembly (260) connecting the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230).

[0066] In the first state (101a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (240) can be seen from the front of the housing (200). For example, the first unbendable portion (241), the second unbendable portion (242), the third unbendable portion (243), the first bendable portion (244), and the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) are visually exposed. The electronic device (101) provides a user with a large display area including the first unbendable portion (241), the second unbendable portion (242), the third unbendable portion (243), the first bendable portion (244), and the second bendable portion (245). In the second state (101b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) can be invisible. For example, the first unbendable portion (241), the second unbendable portion (242), the third unbendable portion (243), the first bendable portion (244), and the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) may not be visually exposed. In the third state, the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may be partially visible from the front of the third housing part (230). For example, the third unbendable portion (243) is visually exposed, and the first unbendable portion (241) and the second unbendable portion (242) are not visually exposed.

[0067] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen in a first state (101a) of the electronic device (101), all parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245) of the flexible display (240) are activated. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen in a second state (101b), all parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245) of the flexible display (240) are deactivated. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen in a third state of the electronic device (101), the third unbendable part (243) is activated and other parts (241, 242, 244, 245) of the flexible display (240) are deactivated.

[0068] Within the first state (101a), the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240), the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240), and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) face substantially the same direction. Within the first state (101a), the first bendable portion (244) and the second bendable portion (245) are arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (241), the second unbendable portion (242), and the third unbendable portion (243).

[0069] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) provide a second state (101b) of the electronic device (101). Within the second state (101b), the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) faces the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240), and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) faces the back of the first housing part (210). Within the second state (101b), the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) is folded such that the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) and the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) face different directions. In the second state (101b), the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) is folded so that the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) face different directions.

[0070] Within the second state (101b), the first housing part (210) is disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). Within the second state (101b), the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) disposed on the second hinge assembly (260) is partially directed toward the side of the first housing part (210).

[0071] FIG. 3A is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state with the flexible display removed. FIG. 3B is a rear view of the exemplary electronic device in a first state with the back cover and display removed.

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device (101) includes a first hinge assembly (250) and a second hinge assembly (260). A first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (250) is narrower than a second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (260). A difference between the first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (250) and the second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (260) is equal to or greater than a thickness of the first housing part (210). For example, the second hinge assembly (260) has a second width (w2) that is wider than the first width (w1) so that the first housing part (210) is disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) according to the second state (101b). The first hinge assembly (250) may be referred to as a narrow hinge assembly in that it has a narrower width than the second hinge assembly (260). The second hinge assembly (260) may be referred to as a wide hinge assembly in that it has a wider width than the first hinge assembly (250).

[0073] A first hinge assembly (250) includes a first set of gears (251), a first hinge plate (252), and a second hinge plate (253). The first hinge plate (252) is coupled to a first support portion (211) of a first housing part (210). The second hinge plate (253) is coupled to a second support portion (221) of a second housing part (220). The gears included in the first set of gears (251) are configured to rotate the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253). For example, the gears included in the first set of gears (251) rotate the second hinge plate (253) (or the second housing part (220)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (210)). After the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (210)) is rotated, the gears included in the first set of gears (251) rotate in accordance with the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (210)). The second hinge plate (253) (or the second housing part (220)) rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) in accordance with the rotation of the gears included in the first set of gears (251).

[0074] The second hinge assembly (260) includes a second set of gears (261), a third hinge plate (262), a fourth hinge plate (263), and a support plate (264). The third hinge plate (262) is coupled to a second support portion (221) of the second housing part (220). The fourth hinge plate (263) is coupled to a third support portion (231) of the third housing part (230). The gears included in the second set of gears (261) are configured to rotate the third hinge plate (262) and the fourth hinge plate (263). For example, the gears included in the second set of gears (261) rotate the fourth hinge plate (263) (or the third housing part (230)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (220)). After the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (220)) is rotated, the gears included in the second set of gears (261) rotate according to the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (220)). The fourth hinge plate (263) (or the third housing part (230)) rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) according to the rotation of the gears included in the second set of gears (261).

[0075] The electronic device (101) includes a first printed circuit board (271), a second printed circuit board (272), and a third printed circuit board (273).

[0076] A first printed circuit board (271) is disposed on a first support portion (211) of a first housing part (210). Hardware components within the first housing part (210) are disposed on the first printed circuit board (271). A second printed circuit board (272) is disposed on a second support portion (221) of the second housing part (220). A third printed circuit board (273) is disposed on a third support portion (231) of a third housing part (230). Hardware components within the third housing part (230) are disposed on the third printed circuit board (273).

[0077] The hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (271) can support or operate independently of the hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (272) and / or the hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (273).

[0078] The hardware components arranged on the second printed circuit board (272) can support or operate independently of the hardware components arranged on the first printed circuit board (271) or the third printed circuit board (273). The hardware components arranged on the second printed circuit board (272) include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0079] Hardware components arranged on the third printed circuit board (273) include at least one processor including a processing circuit, a memory including one or more storage media, a communication circuit, and a rear camera (275). The rear camera (275) is exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the second housing part (220).

[0080] The electronic device (101) further includes batteries. Each of the batteries is attached to support parts (211, 221, 231) included in the housing parts (210, 220, 230). The support parts (211, 221, 231) support rechargeable batteries.

[0081] As an example of the arrangement of hardware components, the rear camera (275) and the second printed circuit board (272) are arranged in the third housing part (230), and the third printed circuit board (273) is arranged in the second housing part (220).

[0082] Although the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) are shown as rotating in opposite directions with respect to the second housing part (220), this is not limited thereto. For example, during the change from the first state (101a) to the second state (101b), the first housing part (210) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (220). As the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) within the second state may be visually exposed.

[0083] FIG. 4A illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary first state. FIG. 4B is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary electronic device taken along line A-A' of FIG. 4A. FIGS. 4C and 4D illustrate a portion of the electronic device in an exemplary second state. FIGS. 4E and 4F illustrate a portion of the electronic device in an exemplary first state.

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, and 4F, the electronic device (101) includes a housing (200), a flexible display (240), a first hinge assembly (250), and a second hinge assembly (260). The housing (200) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). The first hinge assembly (250) may rotatably connect the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The second hinge assembly (260) rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The width of the second hinge assembly (260) (e.g., width (w2) of FIG. 3a) is wider than the width of the first hinge assembly (250) (e.g., width (w1) of FIG. 3a).

[0085] The flexible display (240) may be referred to as a display stack or display structure in which a plurality of layers are combined. For example, the flexible display (240) includes a cover glass, which is the uppermost layer exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The cover glass may be at least partially deformable or may include one or more curved portions. For example, the flexible display (240) may include a polarizing plate attached under the cover glass, one or more adhesive layers, a display panel, and one or more support layers. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the flexible display (240) may include a stack structure of a plurality of layers including at least partially deformable regions.

[0086] The flexible display (240) includes a first unbendable portion (e.g., the first unbendable portion (241) of FIG. 2A) supported by a first housing part (210), a second unbendable portion (242) supported by a second housing part (220), a third unbendable portion (243) supported by a third housing part (230), a first bendable portion (244) that is at least partially deformable by a first hinge assembly (250) and extends from the first unbendable portion (241) to the second unbendable portion (242), and a second bendable portion (245) that is at least partially deformable by a second hinge assembly (260) and extends from the second unbendable portion (242) to the third unbendable portion (243). When an element is referred to as an "unbendable portion" of a flexible display (240) within this document, it may mean that the element referred to as the unbendable portion is a portion of the flexible display (240) that substantially maintains its shape (e.g., a flat shape) or is not deformed while the electronic device (101) performs a folding operation to change its state. Furthermore, when an element is referred to as a "bendable portion" of the flexible display (240) within this document, it may mean that the element referred to as the bendable portion is a portion of the flexible display (240) that is bent or at least partially deformed while the electronic device (101) performs a folding operation to change its state. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B together, the first unbendable portion (241) is coupled to the first housing part (210). The second unbendable portion (242) can be coupled to the second housing part (220). The third unbendable portion (243) is coupled to the third housing part (230). For example, the first unbendable portion (241) is at least partially surrounded by the first housing part (210).One side of the first unbendable part (241) is connected to the first bendable part (244). The second unbendable part (242) is at least partially surrounded by the second housing part (220). One side of the second unbendable part (242) is connected to the first bendable part (244), and the other side of the second unbendable part (242), opposite to the one side, is connected to the second bendable part (245). The third unbendable part (243) is at least partially surrounded by the third housing part (230). One side of the third unbendable part (243) is connected to the second bendable part (245).

[0087] For example, at least a portion of the first hinge assembly (250) (e.g., the first hinge plate (252) of FIG. 3A) is coupled to the first housing part (210). The remaining portion of the first hinge assembly (250) (e.g., the second hinge plate (253) of FIG. 3A) is coupled to the second housing part (220). The first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) extends from one side of the first unbendable portion (241) upwardly across the first hinge assembly (250) to one side of the second unbendable portion (242). At least a portion of the second hinge assembly (260) (e.g., the third hinge plate (262) of FIG. 3A) is coupled to the second housing part (220). The remaining portion of the second hinge assembly (260) (e.g., the fourth hinge plate (263) of FIG. 3A) is coupled to the third housing part (230). The second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) extends upward across the second hinge assembly (260) from the opposite side of the second unbendable portion (242) to the third unbendable portion (243).

[0088] For example, the first bendable portion (244) is at least partially disposed over the first hinge assembly (250). The second bendable portion (245) is at least partially disposed over the second hinge assembly (260). For example, the first hinge assembly (250) is partially covered by the first bendable portion (244). The second hinge assembly (260) is partially covered by the second bendable portion (245). For example, since the width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (250) is smaller than the width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (260), the width of the first bendable portion (244) positioned over the first hinge assembly (250) may be smaller than the width of the second bendable portion (245) positioned over the second hinge assembly (260). For example, the length of the first bendable portion (244) extending from the first unbendable portion (241) to one side of the second unbendable portion (242) is smaller than the length of the second bendable portion (245) extending from the other side of the second unbendable portion opposite the one side to the third unbendable portion (243). For example, the size of the area of ​​the first bendable portion (244) visible from the outside of the electronic device (101) in a first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A) that can be referred to as the unfolded state of the housing (200) is smaller than the size of the area of ​​the second bendable portion (245) visible from the outside of the electronic device (101) in the unfolded state of the housing (200). However, embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited to the examples described above.

[0089] For example, the first unbendable portion (241) is rotatable relative to the second unbendable portion (242) along the first housing part (210) which is rotated relative to the second housing part (220) by the first hinge assembly (250). The first bendable portion (244) extending from the first unbendable portion (241) to the second unbendable portion (242) is at least partially deformed (or bent or unfolded) through the first unbendable portion (241) which is rotated relative to the second unbendable portion (242) by the first hinge assembly (250). For example, the third unbendable portion (243) is rotatable relative to the second unbendable portion (242) along with the third housing part (230), which is rotated relative to the second housing part (220) by the second hinge assembly (260). The second bendable portion (245), which extends from the second unbendable portion (242) to the third unbendable portion (243), is at least partially deformed (or bent or unfolded) through the third unbendable portion (243) being rotated relative to the second unbendable portion (242) by the second hinge assembly (260). However, it should be appreciated that the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited to the examples described above, and that the rotation of one element relative to another is for convenience of describing the rotation of one element relative to the other. For example, “the first unbendable portion (241) that is rotated relative to the second unbendable portion (242)” may mean “the second unbendable portion (242) that is rotated relative to the first unbendable portion (241).” For example, “the third unbendable portion (243) that is rotated relative to the second unbendable portion (242)” may mean “the second unbendable portion (242) that is rotated relative to the third unbendable portion (243).” However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited by the embodiments described above.

[0090] The housing (200) includes decorative members for protecting the edge of the flexible display (240). For example, the first housing part (210) includes a first decorative member (215) arranged along the edge of the first unbendable part (241) of the flexible display (240). The second housing part (220) includes a second decorative member (225) arranged along the edge of the second unbendable part (242) of the flexible display (240). The third housing part (230) includes a third decorative member (235) arranged along the edge of the third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the first decorative member (215) at least partially covers the edge of the first unbendable part (241). The second decorative member (225) at least partially covers the edge of the second unbendable portion (242). The third decorative member (235) at least partially covers the edge of the third unbendable portion (243). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the housing (200) may include a plurality of decorative members for protecting the edges of each of the regions (241, 242, 243) of the flexible display (240).

[0091] The housing (200) may require a structure in which the decorative members (215, 225, 235) are omitted at positions corresponding to each of the foldable regions (244, 245) in order to provide deformation of the foldable regions (244, 245) as the state of the housing (200) (or the electronic device (101)) changes. Since the decorative members (215, 225, 235) are not arranged at positions corresponding to each of the foldable regions (244, 245), foreign substances may be introduced from the outside of the electronic device (101) through the gap between the first bendable portion (244) and the housing parts (210, 220) or the gap between the second bendable portion (245) and the housing parts (220, 230). A structure for providing deformation of the above foldable areas (244, 245) and reducing the inflow of foreign substances through the above foldable areas (244, 245) is described below.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the electronic device (101) includes an elastic member (410) disposed on at least a portion of a second unbendable portion (242) of a flexible display (240), at least a portion of a third unbendable portion (243), and an edge of a second bendable portion (245). For example, the elastic member (410) is disposed on the second unbendable portion (242), the third unbendable portion (243), and the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) along an edge of the flexible display (240). For example, the elastic member (410) covers an edge of the second bendable portion (245), a portion of an edge of the second unbendable portion (242), and a portion of an edge of the third unbendable portion (243). For example, a portion of the elastic member (410) (e.g., the third portion (413)) may be visible from the outside of the electronic device (101) by being placed on the second bendable portion (245). Another portion of the elastic member (410) (e.g., a portion of the first portion (411) and a portion of the second portion (412)) is covered by the decorative members (225, 235) of the housing (200).

[0093] For example, the elastic member (410) includes a resilient elastic material (e.g., rubber). The elastic member (410) can be deformed along the second bendable portion (245) that is at least partially deformed by the third unbendable portion (243) that is rotated relative to the second unbendable portion (242). For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B together, while the electronic device (101) changes from the first state (101a) to the second state (101b), the elastic member (410) is at least partially bent or deformed along the second bendable portion (245) that is bent. The elastic member (410) is at least partially unfolded or deformed along the second bendable portion (245) that is unfolded while the electronic device (101) changes from the second state (101b) to the first state (101a). The elastic member (410) is restored so that the shape of the elastic member (410) becomes substantially the same as the shape of the elastic member (410) in the first state (101a) before changing to the second state (101b) while the electronic device (101) changes from the second state (101b) to the first state (101a).

[0094] For example, the elastic member (410) includes a first part (411) disposed on at least a portion of a second unbendable part (242) of a flexible display (240), and a second part (412) disposed on a third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the first part (411) is at least partially covered by a second decorative part (225) of a second housing part (220) coupled with the second unbendable part (242). The second part (412) is at least partially covered by a third decorative part (235) of a third housing part (230) coupled with the third unbendable part (243). For example, at least a portion of the first part (411) is disposed under the second decorative part (225) and is thus covered by the second decorative part (225). At least a portion of the second portion (412) is disposed below the third decorative member (235) and is thereby covered by the third decorative member (235). For example, the first portion (411) is at least partially interposed between the second decorative member (225) and the second unbendable portion (242), thereby reducing the inflow of foreign substances through the gap between the second decorative member (225) and the second unbendable portion (242). The second portion (412) is at least partially interposed between the third decorative member (235) and the third unbendable portion (243), thereby reducing the inflow of foreign substances through the gap between the third decorative member (235) and the third unbendable portion (243). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) includes an elastic member (410) disposed on the second bendable portion (245), the second unbendable portion (242), and the third unbendable portion (243) along the edge of the flexible display (240), thereby reducing the inflow of foreign substances from the outside through the gap between the second bendable portion (245) and the housing (200).The elastic member (410) includes a first part (411) disposed on the second unbendable part (242) and a second part (412) disposed on the third unbendable part (243), thereby reducing the elastic member (410) from being detached from the flexible display (240) due to deformation of the foldable area (245). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and additional elastic members (elastic members (430) distinct from the elastic members (410)) disposed on the first bendable portion (244) and the first unbendable portion (241) and the second unbendable portion (242) around the first bendable portion (244) can be exemplarily illustrated and described through FIGS. 4C and 4E, and the electronic device (101) can include a plurality of elastic members disposed on the edges of the foldable regions (244, 245).

[0095] The electronic device (101) includes a protective member (420) including a protrusion (425) for guiding deformation of the second bendable portion (245) so that the second bendable portion (245) is deformed into a designated shape as the state of the electronic device (101) (or housing (200)) changes. For example, the protective member (420) is coupled to a second hinge assembly (260) disposed below the second bendable portion (245). At least a portion of the protective member (420) is disposed along an edge of the second bendable portion (245) so as to be visible from the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, the protective member (420) faces a side surface of the second bendable portion (245). The protective member (420) is disposed substantially parallel to the side surface of the second bendable portion (245) in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A). For example, the protrusion (425) of the protective member (420) is disposed on the second bendable portion (245). The protrusion (425) is disposed on, for example, the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) disposed on the second bendable portion (245). For example, the protrusion (425) partially covers the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) disposed on the second bendable portion (245).

[0096] For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B together, the second bendable portion (245) is at least partially bent while the electronic device (101) changes from the first state (101a) to the second state (101b). The protrusion (425) of the protective member (420) guides the elastic member (410) (or the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410)) under the protrusion (425) and / or the second bendable portion (245) to change into a designated shape (e.g., from a flat shape to a U shape). For example, the protrusion (425) of the protective member (420) guides deformation of the elastic member (410) and the second bendable portion (245) by pressing the elastic member (410) and the second bendable portion (245) below the protrusion (425) downward (e.g., in the -z direction) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. For example, the protrusion (425) of the protective member (420) guides deformation of the second bendable portion (245) and / or the elastic member (410) by reducing irregular shape changes (e.g., protrusion deformation) of the elastic member (410) due to deformation of the second bendable portion (245) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. The electronic device (101) includes a protective member (420) disposed along the edge of the second bendable portion (245) and including a protrusion (425), thereby reducing damage to the second bendable portion (245) due to external impact and guiding deformation of the second bendable portion (245) and the elastic member (410).However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and an additional protective member (another protective member (440) distinct from the protective member (420)) disposed on the first bendable portion (244) may be exemplarily illustrated and described through FIGS. 4C and 4E, and the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of protective members disposed along the edges of the foldable regions (244, 245).

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 4c, 4d, 4e, and 4f, the electronic device (101) includes another elastic member (430) disposed on an edge of a first bendable portion (244) that is at least partially bent by a first hinge assembly (250), a portion of a first unbendable portion (241) connected to one side of the first bendable portion (244), and at least a portion of a second unbendable portion (242) connected to the other side of the first bendable portion (244) opposite the one side. A length (l2) of the elastic member (410) disposed on the second bendable portion (245) is longer than a length (l1) of the other elastic member (430) disposed on the first bendable portion (244). For example, since the width (e.g., width (w2) of FIG. 3a) of the second hinge assembly (260) configured to deform the second bendable portion (245) is greater than the width (e.g., width (w1) of FIG. 3a) of the first hinge assembly (250) configured to deform the first bendable portion (244), the width (or area) of the second bendable portion (245) is greater than the width (or area) of the first bendable portion (244). Since the width of the second bendable portion (245) is greater than the width of the first bendable portion (244), the length (l2) of the elastic member (410) disposed on the edge of the second bendable portion (245) is longer than the length (l1) of the other elastic member (430) disposed on the first bendable portion (244).

[0098] For example, in order to provide deformation to the foldable regions (244, 245) as the state of the electronic device (101) changes, the decorative members (215, 225, 235) may be omitted at positions corresponding to each of the foldable regions (244, 245). The edge of the first bendable portion (244) on which the first decorative member (215) and the second decorative member (225) are not arranged is shorter than the edge of the second bendable portion (245) on which the second decorative member (225) and the third decorative member (235) are not arranged. The length of another elastic member (430) for preventing or reducing foreign substances from entering through the gap between the housing (200) including the decorative members (215, 225, 235) and the first bendable portion (244) is shorter than the length of the elastic member (410) for preventing or reducing foreign substances from entering through the gap between the housing (200) and the second bendable portion (245). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0099] The electronic device (101) includes another protective member (440) disposed along an edge of the first bendable portion (244) and including another protrusion (445) disposed over the first bendable portion (244). A width (d1) of the other protrusion (445) is smaller than a width (d2) of a protrusion (425) of the protective member (420) disposed along an edge of the second bendable portion (245). For example, the protective member (420) is coupled to a second hinge cover (265) of a second hinge assembly (260). The other protective member (440) is coupled to a first hinge cover (255) of a first hinge assembly (250). For example, since the width of the second bendable portion (245) is wider than the width of the first bendable portion (244), the protrusion (425) of the protective member (420) positioned on the second bendable portion (245) to guide deformation of the second bendable portion (245) has a wider width than the other protrusion (445) of the other protective member (440) positioned on the first bendable portion (244) to guide deformation of the first bendable portion (244). For example, in order to provide deformation to the foldable areas (244, 245) as the state of the electronic device (101) changes, the decorative members (215, 225, 235) are omitted at positions corresponding to each of the foldable areas (244, 245). The edge of the first bendable portion (244) where the first decorative member (215) and the second decorative member (225) are not arranged is shorter than the edge of the second bendable portion (245) where the second decorative member (225) and the third decorative member (235) are not arranged. The width of the other protective member (440) arranged between the first decorative member (215) and the second decorative member (225) is smaller than the width of the protective member (420) arranged between the second decorative member (225) and the third decorative member (235). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 4c and 4d, the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) includes a planar portion (401) having a substantially perpendicular and flat shape with respect to the second unbendable portion (242) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) in a multi-folded state (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2a) of the electronic device (or housing (200)), a first deformable portion (402) that is bent by the second hinge assembly (260) and extends from the planar portion (401) to the second unbendable portion (242), and a second deformable portion (403) that is bent by the second hinge assembly (260) and extends from the planar portion (401) to the third unbendable portion (243).

[0101] The third part (413) of the elastic member (410) is disposed on the flat part (401) of the second bendable part (245). The elastic member (410) includes a first connecting part (414) connecting the first part (411) disposed on the second unbendable part (242) and the third part (413), and a second connecting part (415) connecting the second part (412) disposed on the third unbendable part (243) and the third part (413). The first connecting part (414) is disposed on the first deformable part (402) of the second bendable part (245). The second connecting part (415) is disposed on the second deformable part (403) of the second bendable part (245).

[0102] For example, the first part (411), the second part (412), and the third part (413) of the elastic member (410) are parts that maintain a substantially planar shape while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. The first connecting part (414) and the second connecting part (415) of the elastic member (410) are parts that are configured to be deformed while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. For example, the connecting parts (414, 415) of the elastic member (410) are parts that are bent while the state of the electronic device (101) changes from a first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A) to a second state (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2A), or are parts that are unfolded while the electronic device (101) changes from the second state to the first state. For example, the connecting portions (414, 415) of the elastic member (410) are portions configured to form a curved surface by expanding or contracting while the third hinge plate (262) and the fourth hinge plate (263) of the second hinge assembly (260) are rotated with respect to the second hinge cover (265). The elastic member (410) guides the second bendable portion (245) to be deformed while the state of the electronic device (101) changes by including the connecting portions (414, 415) and reduces the inflow of foreign substances through the gap between the second bendable portion (245) and the housing (200).

[0103] For example, the other elastic member (430) includes a fourth part (431) disposed on the first unbendable part (241), a fifth part (432) disposed on the second unbendable part (242), and a third connecting part (433) extending from the fourth part (431) to the fifth part (432) and disposed on the first bendable part (244). For example, the fourth part (431) and the fifth part (432) of the other elastic member (430) are parts that maintain a substantially planar shape while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. The third connecting part (433) of the other elastic member (430) is parts that are configured to be deformed while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. For example, the third connecting portion (433) of the other elastic member (430) is a portion that is bent while the state of the electronic device (101) changes from a first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A) to a second state (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2A), or is unfolded while the electronic device (101) changes from the second state to the first state. For example, the third connecting portion (433) of the other elastic member (430) is a portion that is configured to form a curved surface by expanding or contracting while the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) of the first hinge assembly (250) are rotated with respect to the first hinge cover (255). Another elastic member (430) guides the first bendable portion (244) to be deformed while the state of the electronic device (101) changes by including a third connecting portion (433), thereby reducing the inflow of foreign substances through the gap between the first bendable portion (244) and the housing (200).

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 4E and 4F, when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the z direction), the electronic device (101) includes a plurality of boundary axes (h1, h2, h3, h4). For example, the first boundary axis (h1) is an axis corresponding to a boundary between the first unbendable portion (241) and the first bendable portion (244) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. The first boundary axis (h1) is, for example, a boundary where the first bendable portion (244) and the first unbendable portion (241) meet in a second state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2B). The second boundary axis (h2) is an axis corresponding to the boundary between the first bendable portion (244) and the second unbendable portion (242) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. The second boundary axis (h2) is, for example, a boundary where the first bendable portion (244) and the second unbendable portion (242) meet in the second state (101b) of the electronic device (101). For example, the first bendable portion (244) is deformed between the first boundary axis (h1) and the second boundary axis (h2) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. For example, the third boundary axis (h3) is an axis corresponding to the boundary between the second unbendable portion (242) and the second bendable portion (245) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. The third boundary axis (h3) is, for example, a boundary where the second bendable portion (245) and the second unbendable portion (242) meet in the second state (101b) of the electronic device (101). The fourth boundary axis (h4) is an axis corresponding to the boundary between the second bendable portion (245) and the third unbendable portion (243) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above.The fourth boundary axis (h4) is, for example, a boundary where the second bendable portion (245) and the third unbendable portion (243) meet in the second state (101b) of the electronic device (101). For example, the second bendable portion (245) is deformed between the third boundary axis (h3) and the fourth boundary axis (h4) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. For example, the distance between the third boundary axis (h3) and the fourth boundary axis (h4) is greater than the distance between the first boundary axis (h1) and the second boundary axis (h2).

[0105] Referring again to FIG. 4d, unlike the first bendable portion (244) in FIG. 4c, the second bendable portion (245) may include a flat portion (401) or have a width greater than that of the first bendable portion (244) to form a space (S) for accommodating the first housing part (210) in a second state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2b, a multi-folded state). Referring to FIGS. 4E and 4F together, since the length (l2) of the elastic member (410) disposed on the second bendable portion (245) is longer than the length (l1) of the other elastic member (430) disposed on the first bendable portion (244), the area of ​​the elastic member (410) exposed to the external impact of the electronic device (101) (or the length of the edge of the flexible display (240) covered by the elastic member (410)) is greater than the area of ​​the other elastic member (430) exposed to the external impact (or the length of the edge of the flexible display (240) covered by the other elastic member (430)). For example, since the width of the second bendable portion (245) is greater than the width of the first bendable portion (244), the flat areas (400A, 400B) of the flexible display (240) under the elastic member (410) exposed from the decorative members (225, 235) may be damaged by an external impact of the electronic device (101) and / or a change in the state of the electronic device (101). For example, the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) attached on the flat portion (401) of the second bendable portion (245) may not sufficiently protect the flat portion (401) from an external impact of the electronic device (101) or may cause damage to the flat portion (401) due to deformation of the first deformable portion (402) and the second deformable portion (403).The electronic device (101) may require a structure to protect the flat areas (e.g., area (400A), area (400B), flat portion (401)) of the flexible display (240) disposed on the second hinge assembly (260). The structure is described through the illustration in FIG. 5A and below.

[0106] FIG. 5A is a partially exploded perspective view of an electronic device in an exemplary first state. FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C illustrate a portion of the electronic device in an exemplary first state. FIG. 5D illustrates a portion of the electronic device in an exemplary second state. FIG. 5E, FIG. 5F, and FIG. 5G illustrate a portion of the electronic device in an exemplary second state. FIG. 5H illustrates an elastic member of the electronic device in an exemplary state.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, and 5G, the electronic device (101) includes a housing (200) including a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) includes a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2A) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (260) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a wider width (e.g., the width (w2) of FIG. 3A) than the first hinge assembly (250). The electronic device (101) includes a first unbendable portion (e.g., the first unbendable portion (241) of FIG. 2a) supported by the first housing part (210), a second unbendable portion (242) supported by the second housing part (220), a third unbendable portion (243) supported by the third housing part (230), a first bendable portion (e.g., the first bendable portion (244) of FIG. 2a) that is at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly (250) and extends from the first unbendable portion (241) to the second unbendable portion (242), and a second bendable portion (245) that is at least partially deformable by the second hinge assembly (260) and extends from the second unbendable portion (242) to the third unbendable portion (243). A flexible display (240) is included. The electronic device (101) includes an elastic member (410) disposed on at least a portion of the second unbendable portion (242), at least a portion of the third unbendable portion (243), and an edge of the second bendable portion (245).However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) illustrated and described in FIGS. 5A to 5D may include configurations illustrated and described in FIGS. 4A to 4F (e.g., another elastic member (430), another protective member (440)). Hereinafter, descriptions of overlapping configurations having the same reference numerals as those illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 4F are omitted.

[0108] The protective member (420) is fastened to the second hinge cover (265) of the second hinge assembly (260). The protective member (420) is, for example, seated in a seating groove (265a) of the second hinge cover (265) formed along an edge of the second bendable portion (245). The protrusion (425) of the protective member (420) is at least partially disposed on the flat portion (401) of the second bendable portion (245). For example, the protrusion (425) is disposed on the third portion (413) that is disposed on the flat portion (401) of the elastic member (410). The protrusion (425) is configured to be positioned at least partially above the flat portion (401) to reduce the flat portion (401) and / or the third portion (413) from being separated from the second hinge assembly (260) as the deformable portions (402, 403) of the second bendable portion (245) are deformed and to guide the deformation of the deformable portions (402, 403).

[0109] The electronic device (101) includes at least one rigid member (510) coupled with an elastic member (410). The at least one rigid member (510) includes a first rigid member (511) coupled on a first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) that is attached to at least a portion of a second unbendable portion (242). The at least one rigid member (510) includes a second rigid member (512) coupled on a second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) that is coupled to at least a portion of a third unbendable portion (243). For example, the rigidity of the at least one rigid member (510) is greater than the rigidity of the elastic member (410). The properties of a material forming the at least one rigid member (510) are different from the properties of a material forming the elastic member (410). For example, at least one rigid member (510) includes a material having relatively high rigidity with respect to the elastic member (410). For example, at least one rigid member (510) may include, but is not limited to, a metal, a polymer sheet including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polycarbonate (PC), a coating material including acrylic or polyurethane, a rubber having relatively high hardness than the elastic member (410), and / or silicone.

[0110] For example, the elastic member (410) and at least one rigid member (510) coupled with the elastic member (410) may be referred to as a cover for protecting the edge of the flexible display (240). The cover may be deformed according to the deformation of the second bendable portion (245) through the elastic force and / or restoring force of the elastic member (410). The cover guides the deformation of the second unbendable portion (245) through the at least one rigid member (510) coupled with the elastic member (410). The cover protects the edges of the second unbendable portion (242) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240), which are connected to the second bendable portion (245) and the second bendable portion (245), from external impact through the at least one rigid member (510) coupled with the elastic member (410). The cover may be referred to as a dust cover for preventing the inflow of foreign substances from the outside, but the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0111] Referring also to FIG. 6h, the at least one rigid member (510) includes a first rigid member (511) attached below a first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) attached to at least a portion of the second unbendable portion (242). The at least one rigid member (510) includes a second rigid member (512) attached below a second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) attached to at least a portion of the third unbendable portion (243).

[0112] For example, the first rigid member (511) is disposed on the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) by being attached to the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410). The first rigid member (511) is disposed along an edge of the second unbendable portion (242). For example, the first rigid member (511) is positioned at least partially between the second unbendable portion (242) and the second decorative member (225). The first rigid member (511) is disposed between the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) and the second decorative member (225). For example, the first rigid member (511) is covered by the second decorative member (225). For example, the second rigid member (512) is disposed on the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) by being attached to the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410). The second rigid member (512) is disposed along an edge of the third unbendable portion (243). For example, the second rigid member (512) is positioned at least partially between the third unbendable portion (243) and the third decorative member (235). The second rigid member (512) is disposed between the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) and the third decorative member (235). For example, the second rigid member (512) is covered by the third decorative member (235). However, embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and at least one rigid member (510) may include one or more rigid members attached to at least one of the first portion (411) and the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410).The electronic device (101) includes at least one rigid member (510) attached on an elastic member (410), thereby guiding deformation of the second bendable portion (245) while the state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) changes and reducing damage to the second unbendable portion (242) and / or the third unbendable portion (243) connected to the second bendable portion (245) due to deformation of the second bendable portion (245).

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 5a, 5e, 5f, and 5g, the thickness (t3) of the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) is greater than the thickness (t1) of the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) and the thickness (t2) of the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410). For example, the thickness (t3) of the third portion (413) (or the third horizontal portion (413a)) disposed on the front surface (401a) of the flat portion (401) of the second bendable portion (245) is greater than the thickness (t1) of the first portion (411) (or the first horizontal portion (411a)) disposed on the front surface (242a) of the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240). For example, the thickness (t3) of the third part (413) (or the third horizontal part (413a)) disposed on the front surface (401a) of the flat part (401) of the second bendable part (245) is greater than the thickness (t2) of the second part (412) (or the second horizontal part (412a)) disposed on the front surface (243a) of the third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240).

[0114] For example, the elastic member (410) includes at least one step structure (417) to provide a space for at least one rigid member (510) to be attached. For example, the first part (411) of the elastic member (410) includes a first step structure (417a) to form a seating portion for attachment of the first rigid member (511). The second part (412) of the elastic member (410) includes a second step structure (417b) to form a seating portion for attachment of the second rigid member (512). By the step structures (417a, 417b), the thickness (t1) of the first part (411) and the thickness (t2) of the second part (412) are smaller than the thickness (t3) of the third part (413) attached to the flat part (401).

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5E, 5F, and 5G, the thickness (t3) of the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) is greater than the thickness (t4) of the first rigid member (511) and the thickness (t5) of the second rigid member (512). For example, at least one rigid member (510) is attached in a thin film shape on the elastic member (410) to provide deformation of the first deformable portion (402) and the second deformable portion (403) of the second bendable portion (245) while the state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) changes. The thickness (t3) of the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) disposed on the flat portion (401) is greater than the thickness (t4) of the first rigid member (511) disposed on the first portion (411). The thickness (t3) of the third portion (413) may be greater than the thickness (t5) of the second rigid member (512) disposed on the second portion (412). For example, the thickness (t4) of the first rigid member (511) and the thickness (t5) of the second rigid member (512) are substantially the same, but are not limited thereto.

[0116] For example, the sum of the thickness (t4) of the first rigid member (511) and the thickness (t1) of the first part (411) corresponds to the thickness (t3) of the third part (413). The height of the first step structure (417a) of the first part (411) configured to form a seating portion for the first rigid member (511) corresponds to the thickness (t4) of the first rigid member (511). For example, the sum of the thickness (t5) of the second rigid member (512) and the thickness (t2) of the second part (412) corresponds to the thickness (t3) of the third part (413). The height of the second step structure (417b) of the second part (412) configured to form a seating portion for the second rigid member (512) corresponds to the thickness (t5) of the second rigid member (512). For example, the first rigid member (511), the second rigid member (512), the third portion (413), the first connecting portion (414), and the second connecting portion (415) form a continuous surface, but are not limited thereto.

[0117] At least one rigid member (510) is attached to the elastic member (410) via an adhesive material or double injection molding. For example, at least one rigid member (510) is attached to at least one mounting portion formed by at least one step structure (417) of the elastic member (410) via an adhesive material (e.g., an adhesive or adhesive tape). For example, at least one rigid member (510) is formed integrally with the elastic member (410) via a double injection molding process. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0118] The first rigid member (511) includes a first opening (511a) extending along an edge of the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240). The second rigid member (512) includes a second opening (512a) extending along an edge of the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240). A second decorative member (225) covering the edge of the second unbendable portion (242) together with an elastic member (410) is coupled to the first opening (511a). A third decorative member (235) covering the edge of the third unbendable portion (243) together with an elastic member (410) is coupled to the second opening (512a).

[0119] The second decorative member (225) includes a first fastening structure (225a) (or a hook structure) for fastening to the first opening (511a) of the first rigid member (511). The third decorative member (235) includes a second fastening structure (235a) (or a hook structure) for fastening to the second opening (512a) of the second rigid member (512). For example, the first fastening structure (225a) is at least partially positioned within the first opening (511a), thereby slidably coupling the second decorative member (225) to the first rigid member (511) (or the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410). The second fastening structure (235a) is positioned at least partially within the second opening (512a) to slidably connect the third decorative member (235) to the second rigid member (512) (or the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0120] For example, the elastic member (410) includes at least one other opening (418) formed at a position corresponding to the openings (511a, 512a) of the rigid members (511, 512). For example, the first part (411) of the elastic member (410) includes a third opening (418a) that overlaps with the first opening (511a) of the first rigid member (511) and is connected to the first opening (511a). For example, the second part (412) of the elastic member (410) includes a fourth opening (418b) that overlaps with the second opening (512a) of the second rigid member (512) and is connected to the second opening (512a). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0121] For example, at least one rigid member (510) is slidably coupled to the decorative members (225, 235) through the openings (511a, 512a). For example, as the state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) changes, the connecting parts (414, 415) of the elastic member (410) attached to the deformable parts (402, 403) of the second bendable part (245) can be deformed. As the first connecting part (414) is deformed, the first part (411) connected to the first connecting part (414) slides relative to the second decorative member (225). As the second connecting part (415) is deformed, the second part (412) connected to the second connecting part (415) slides relative to the third decorative member (235). The first rigid member (511) disposed on the first portion (411) provides flexibility of the first connection portion (414) by including a first opening (511a) that is slidable with respect to the second decorative member (225). The second rigid member (512) disposed on the second portion (412) can provide flexibility of the second connection portion (415) by including a second opening (512a) that is slidable with respect to the third decorative member (235).

[0122] The elastic member (410) includes one or more slits (416) for guiding deformation of the elastic member (410) according to deformation of the second bendable portion (245). For example, the one or more slits (416) are formed at connecting portions (414, 415) of the elastic member (410) that deform together with the second bendable portion (245) as the second bendable portion (245) deforms. For example, the one or more slits (416) are formed to face the first deformable portion (402) and / or the second deformable portion (403) of the second bendable portion (245). For example, the one or more slits (416) are configured to change size while the state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) changes. For example, one or more slits (416) may be configured to increase in size along the bendable connecting portions (414, 415) while the electronic device (101) changes from a first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A) to a second state (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2B). The one or more slits (416) may be configured to decrease in size along the unfolded connecting portions (414, 415) while the electronic device (101) changes from the second state to the first state.

[0123] For example, the first connecting portion (414) of the elastic member (410) includes a first slit (416a) for guiding deformation of the first deformable portion (402) of the second bendable portion (245). For example, the second connecting portion (415) of the elastic member (410) includes a second slit (416b) for guiding deformation of the second deformable portion (403) of the second bendable portion (245). For example, the first slit (416a) faces the side surface (402b) of the first deformable portion (402). The second slit (416b) faces the side surface (403b) of the second deformable portion (403). However, embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the elastic member (410) includes one or more slits (416) for guiding and / or providing deformation of the elastic member (410) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 5a and 5h, the elastic member (410) includes horizontal portions (411a, 412a, 413a, 414a, 415a) (or flange portions) disposed on the front surface of the flexible display (240) and vertical portions (411b, 412b, 413b, 414b, 415b) (or web portions) extending from each of the horizontal portions (411a, 412a, 413a, 414a, 415a) and disposed on the side surface of the flexible display (240). A first slit (416a) is formed in the fourth vertical portion (414b) of the first connecting portion (414). The second slit (416b) is formed in the fifth vertical portion (415b) of the second connecting portion (415). For example, the elastic member (410) may have a cantilever shape (or T-beam shape) in the first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2a) of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) by including horizontal portions (411a, 412a, 413a, 414a, 415a) and vertical portions (411b, 412b, 413b, 414b, 415b) extending perpendicularly to the horizontal portions (411a, 412a, 413a, 414a, 415a).

[0125] For example, referring to FIGS. 5a, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, and 5h, the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) includes a first horizontal portion (411a) disposed on the front surface (242a) of the second unbendable portion (242) and a first vertical portion (411b) disposed on the side surface (242b) of the second unbendable portion (242). For example, the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) includes a second horizontal portion (412a) disposed on the front surface (243a) of the third unbendable portion (243) and a second vertical portion (412b) disposed on the side surface (243b) of the third unbendable portion (243). For example, the third part (413) of the elastic member (410) includes a third horizontal part (413a) disposed on the front surface (401a) of the flat part (401) and a third vertical part (413b) disposed on the side surface (401b) of the flat part (401). For example, the first connecting part (414) of the elastic member (410) includes a fourth horizontal part (414a) disposed on the front surface (402a) of the first deformable part (402) and a fourth vertical part (414b) disposed on the side surface (402b) of the first deformable part (402). For example, the second connecting portion (415) of the elastic member (410) includes a fifth horizontal portion (415a) disposed on the front surface (403a) of the second deformable portion (403) and a fifth vertical portion (415b) disposed on the side surface (403b) of the second deformable portion (403). However, the embodiment supported by the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the elastic member (410) may include a horizontal portion disposed on the front surface of the flexible display (240) and a vertical portion extending from the horizontal portion and disposed on the side surface of the flexible display (240). The elastic member (410) may reduce damage to the side surface of the flexible display (240) due to external impact by including vertical portions (411b, 412b, 413b, 414b, 415b).

[0126] For example, one or more slits (416) for guiding deformation of the elastic member (410) are formed in the fourth vertical portion (414b) and / or the fifth vertical portion (415b). For example, the first slit (416a) is formed in the fourth vertical portion (414b) of the first connecting portion (414). The second slit (416b) is formed in the fifth vertical portion (415b) of the second connecting portion (415). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0127] The electronic device (101) requires a structure for reducing damage to a flat portion (401) of a second bendable portion (245) and a first unbendable portion (241) and a second unbendable portion (242) adjacent to the second bendable portion (245) and having a flat shape, and guiding deformation of the second bendable portion (245) by using at least one rigid member (510) attached to an elastic member (410). The structure is described through the illustration and description of FIG. 6A and below.

[0128] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary first state. FIG. 6C is a partial exploded perspective view of the electronic device in the exemplary first state. FIG. 6D illustrates a portion of the electronic device in the exemplary first state. FIG. 6E is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device in the exemplary first state taken along line B-B' of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6F is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device in the exemplary first state taken along line C-C' of FIG. 6B. FIG. 6G is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device in the exemplary first state taken along line D-D' of FIG. 6D. FIG. 6H is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device in the exemplary first state.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G, and 6H, the electronic device (101) includes a housing (200) including a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) includes a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2A) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (260) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a wider width (e.g., the width (w2) of FIG. 3A) than the first hinge assembly (250). The electronic device (101) includes a first unbendable portion (e.g., the first unbendable portion (241) of FIG. 2a) supported by the first housing part (210), a second unbendable portion (242) supported by the second housing part (220), a third unbendable portion (243) supported by the third housing part (230), a first bendable portion (e.g., the first bendable portion (244) of FIG. 2a) that is at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly (250) and extends from the first unbendable portion (241) to the second unbendable portion (242), and a second bendable portion (245) that is at least partially deformable by the second hinge assembly (260) and extends from the second unbendable portion (242) to the third unbendable portion (243). A flexible display (240) is included. The electronic device (101) includes an elastic member (410) attached to at least a portion of the second unbendable portion (242), at least a portion of the third unbendable portion (243), and an edge of the second bendable portion (245).However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) illustrated and described in FIGS. 6A to 6E includes configurations illustrated and described in FIGS. 4A to 5H (e.g., another elastic member (430), another protective member (440), fastening structures (225a, 235a)). Hereinafter, descriptions of overlapping configurations having the same reference numerals as those illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 5D are omitted.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6E, unlike those illustrated in FIGS. 5A to 5D, at least one rigid member (510) overlaps the first portion (411) and the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the z direction). For example, the first rigid member (511) covers the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. The second rigid member (512) covers the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. For example, the first rigid member (511) extends to the third boundary axis (h3) of the second hinge assembly (260) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. At least a portion of the first rigid member (511) extends to the third boundary axis (h3), thereby being at least partially exposed to the outside of the second decorative member (225).

[0131] For example, the second rigid member (512) extends to the fourth boundary axis (h4) of the second hinge assembly (260) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. At least a portion of the second rigid member (512) is extended to the fourth boundary axis (h4) and thus is at least partially exposed to the outside of the third decor member (235). For example, the first rigid member (511) is extended to the boundary between the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) and the first connecting portion (414), and thus is at least partially disposed on the third hinge plate (262) of the second hinge assembly (260). For example, the second rigid member (512) is disposed at least partially on the fourth hinge plate (263) of the second hinge assembly (260) by extending to a boundary between the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) and the second connecting portion (415). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and at least one rigid member (510) extends to a position corresponding to the boundary axes (h3, h4) of the second hinge assembly (260) on the elastic member (410), thereby guiding deformation of the second bendable portion (245) and reducing damage to the second unbendable portion (242) and the third unbendable portion (243) due to the deformation of the second bendable portion (245).

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 6B, 6C, and 6F, unlike FIGS. 5A to 5D, at least one rigid member (510) further includes a third rigid member (513) attached on a third portion (413) of the elastic member (410). For example, the third rigid member (513) is at least partially disposed on the second bendable portion (245). The third rigid member (513) is disposed between the first rigid member (511) and the second rigid member (512), for example, within a first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A) of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)). For example, the third rigid member (513) covers the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the z direction). The third rigid member (513) extends from the boundary between the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) and the first connecting portion (414) to the boundary between the third portion (413) and the second connecting portion (415) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above.

[0133] For example, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 5a, as illustrated in FIG. 6c, the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) includes a third step structure (417c) and a fourth step structure (417d) for accommodating a third rigid member (513). The third step structure (417c) overlaps with the third boundary axis (h3) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above (e.g., when viewed in the z direction). The fourth step structure (417d) overlaps with the fourth boundary axis (h4) when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above. For example, the thicknesses of each of the rigid members (511, 512, 513) may be substantially the same. The heights of the step structures (417a, 417b, 417c, 417d) of the elastic members (410) for accommodating each of the rigid members (511, 512, 513) are substantially the same. However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0134] For example, the third rigid member (513) is at least partially disposed below the protrusion (425) of the protective member (420). Although not shown, the third rigid member (513) includes an opening for engaging with the protrusion (425). For example, the third rigid member (513) is at least partially interposed between the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) and the protrusion (425) of the protective member (420).

[0135] For example, the length of the third rigid member (513) is shorter than the length of the first rigid member (511) and the length of the second rigid member (512). For example, the length of the first portion (411) and / or the length of the second portion (412) is longer than the length of the third portion (413). The length of the first rigid member (511) attached on the first portion (411) and / or the length of the second rigid member (512) attached on the second portion (412) is longer than the length of the third rigid member (513) attached on the third portion (413). For example, the first rigid member (511) may be attached on the first horizontal portion (411a) of the first portion (411). The second rigid member (512) is attached on the second horizontal portion (412a) of the second portion (412). The third rigid member (513) is attached on the third horizontal portion (413a) of the third portion (413). The rigid members (511, 512, 513) are attached on the horizontal portions (411a, 412a, 413a), respectively, so that they are arranged substantially on the same plane within the first state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto. At least one rigid member (510) includes a third rigid member (513) attached to a third portion (413) of an elastic member (410), thereby guiding deformation of the second bendable portion (245) and reducing damage to the planar portion (401) of the second bendable portion (245) due to the deformation of the second bendable portion (245).

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 6d and 6g, the electronic device (101) includes all of the structures of at least one rigid member (510) attached to the elastic member (410), as illustrated and described in FIGS. 6a, 6b, 6c, 6e, and 6f. For example, the at least one rigid member (510) includes a first rigid member (511) extending to a third boundary axis (h3), a second rigid member (512) extending to a fourth boundary axis (h4), and a third rigid member (513) covering a planar portion (401) of the second bendable portion (245), when viewing the flexible display (240) from above. For example, when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above, the first rigid member (511) at least partially overlaps the third hinge plate (262) of the second hinge assembly (260). When the flexible display (240) is viewed from above, the second rigid member (512) at least partially overlaps the fourth hinge plate (263) of the second hinge assembly (260). When the flexible display (240) is viewed from above, the third rigid member (513) overlaps the second hinge cover (265) of the second hinge assembly (260). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) includes at least one rigid member (510) arranged along an edge of a flat portion (401) of the second bendable portion (245) and an edge of areas (241, 242) around the second bendable portion (245), thereby protecting the flat areas (e.g., areas (400A, 400B) of FIG. 4d) around the second bendable portion (245) from external impact and guiding deformation of the second bendable portion (245) while the state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) changes.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 6h, unlike what is illustrated and described in FIGS. 6a to 6g, at least one rigid member (510) is disposed between the elastic member (410) and the flexible display (240). For example, the at least one rigid member (510) is covered by the elastic member (410). The at least one rigid member (510) includes, for example, a first rigid member (511) disposed between a first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) and a second unbendable portion (242). The at least one rigid member (510) includes a second rigid member (512) disposed between a second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) and a third unbendable portion (243). The at least one rigid member (510) includes a third rigid member (513) disposed between the third portion (413) of the elastic member (410) and the flat portion (401). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0138] Fig. 7a illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary second state. Fig. 7b illustrates a protective member of the exemplary electronic device.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the electronic device (101) includes a housing (200) including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) includes a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2A) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (260) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a wider width (e.g., the width (w2) of FIG. 3A) than the first hinge assembly (250). The electronic device (101) comprises a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display of FIG. 2A) including a first unbendable portion (241) supported by the first housing part (210), a second unbendable portion (242) supported by the second housing part (220), a third unbendable portion (243) supported by the third housing part (230), a first bendable portion (e.g., the first bendable portion (244) of FIG. 2A) that is at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly (250) and extends from the first unbendable portion (241) to the second unbendable portion (242), and a second bendable portion (245) that is at least partially deformable by the second hinge assembly (260) and extends from the second unbendable portion (242) to the third unbendable portion (243). The electronic device (101) includes an elastic member (410) disposed on at least a portion of the second unbendable portion (242), at least a portion of the third unbendable portion (243), and an edge of the second bendable portion (245).However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) illustrated and described in FIGS. 7A and 7B may include configurations illustrated and described in FIGS. 4A to 6F (e.g., another elastic member (430), another protective member (440), at least one rigid member (510)). Hereinafter, descriptions of overlapping configurations having the same reference numerals as those illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 6H are omitted.

[0140] The electronic device (101) includes a protective member (420) coupled to a second hinge cover (265) of a second hinge assembly (260) and including a protrusion (425) positioned at least partially over a second bendable portion (245). The protective member (420) includes an elastic member (710) that is deformable and faces the first housing part (210) within a second state of the housing (200) (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2b). For example, the elastic member (710) forms at least a portion of the protrusion (425) of the protective member (420). The elastic portion (710) forms at least a portion of one side of the protective member (420) facing the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) within a second state (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2A) that may be referred to as a multi-folded state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)). For example, the elastic portion (710) may be a portion of the protective member (420) that is closest to the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) within the second state of the electronic device (101).

[0141] For example, the protective member (420) includes a first fastening portion (421) coupled to the second housing part (220) and a second fastening portion (422) coupled to the third housing part (230). The first fastening portion (421) is disposed within the second housing part (220) and is thus covered by the second housing part (220). The second fastening portion (422) is disposed within the third housing part (230) and can be covered by the third housing part (230). The elastic portion (710) of the protective member (420) is formed between the first fastening portion (421) and the second fastening portion (422) and is thus at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) while the state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) is changed. For example, the elastic portion (710) is configured to come into contact with the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) within the second state of the electronic device (101). The elastic portion (710) may include, but is not limited to, rubber and / or sponge, for example. The protective member (420) may, by including the elastic portion (710), reduce damage to the first housing part (210) due to friction between the protective member (420) and the first housing part (210) while the state of the electronic device (101) is changed.

[0142] Figure 8 illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary second state.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 8, the electronic device (101) includes a housing (200) including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A), and a third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) includes a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2A) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (260) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a wider width (e.g., the width (w2) of FIG. 3A) than the first hinge assembly (250). The electronic device (101) comprises a first unbendable portion (e.g., the first unbendable portion (241) of FIG. 2a) supported by the first housing part (210), a second unbendable portion (e.g., the second unbendable portion (242) of FIG. 2a) supported by the second housing part (220), a third unbendable portion (e.g., the third unbendable portion (243) of FIG. 2a) supported by the third housing part (230), a first bendable portion (e.g., the first bendable portion (244) of FIG. 2a) at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly (250) and extending from the first unbendable portion (241) to the second unbendable portion (242), and a second hinge assembly (260) at least partially deformable by the second unbendable portion (242). A flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 2A) including a second bendable portion (245) extending to the third unbendable portion (243) is included. The electronic device (101) includes an elastic member (410) disposed on at least a portion of the second unbendable portion (242), at least a portion of the third unbendable portion (243), and an edge of the second bendable portion (245).However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) illustrated and described in FIGS. 7A and 7B may include configurations illustrated and described in FIGS. 4A to 7B (e.g., another elastic member (430), another protective member (440), at least one rigid member (510), and an elastic portion (710)). Hereinafter, descriptions of overlapping configurations having the same reference numerals as those illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 7B are omitted.

[0144] The elastic member (410) is configured to be at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) so as to come into contact with the first housing part (210) within the second state of the housing (200) (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2b), thereby spacing the first housing part (210) from the second bendable portion (245). For example, at least a portion of the elastic member (410) is configured to be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) through a gap between the housing (200) and the flexible display (240). For example, the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) is disposed along the first deformable portion (e.g., the first deformable portion (402) of FIG. 4d) of the second bendable portion (245), thereby being partially exposed to the outside of the second decor member (225). For example, the second part of the elastic member (410) (e.g., the second part (412) of FIG. 4a) is disposed along the second deformable part of the second bendable part (245) (e.g., the second deformable part (403) of FIG. 4d) so as to be partially exposed to the outside of the third decorative member (e.g., the third decorative member (235) of FIG. 4a).

[0145] For example, within a second state (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2b) of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)), the first portion (411) of the elastic member (410) is configured to come into contact with the first housing part (210) and / or the first unbendable portion (241), thereby separating the first housing part (210) and / or the first unbendable portion (241) from the second bendable portion (245). For example, although not shown, within the second state of the electronic device (101), the second portion (412) of the elastic member (410) is configured to come into contact with the first housing part (210), thereby separating the first housing part (210) from the second bendable portion (245). However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and for example, the elastic member (410) is configured to come into contact with the first housing part (210) and / or the first unbendable portion (241) while the state of the electronic device (101) is changed from a first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A) to a second state (e.g., the second state (101b) of FIG. 2B), thereby mitigating the impact transmitted from the first housing part (210) to the second bendable portion (245). The elastic member (410) is at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101), thereby reducing damage to the second bendable portion (245) by the first housing part (210).

[0146] Figure 9a is a side view of an electronic device in an exemplary third state. Figure 9b illustrates a portion of an electronic device in an exemplary second state.

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the electronic device (101) includes a housing (200) including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2A) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (e.g., the second hinge assembly (260) of FIG. 2A) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a wider width (e.g., the width (w2) of FIG. 3A) than the first hinge assembly (250). The electronic device (101) comprises a flexible first unbendable portion (241) supported by the first housing part (210), a second unbendable portion (242) supported by the second housing part (220), a third unbendable portion (243) supported by the third housing part (230), a first bendable portion (e.g., the first bendable portion (244) of FIG. 2a) that is at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly (250) and extends from the first unbendable portion (241) to the second unbendable portion (242), and a second bendable portion (e.g., the second bendable portion (245) of FIG. 2a) that is at least partially deformable by the second hinge assembly (260) and extends from the second unbendable portion (242) to the third unbendable portion (243). A display (e.g., a flexible display (240) of FIG. 2a) is included. The electronic device (101) includes an elastic member (e.g., an elastic member (410) of FIG. 4a) disposed on at least a portion of the second unbendable portion (242), at least a portion of the third unbendable portion (243), and an edge of the second bendable portion (245).However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) illustrated and described in FIGS. 9A and 9B may include configurations illustrated and described in FIGS. 4A to 8 (e.g., another elastic member (430), another protective member (440), at least one rigid member (510), and an elastic portion (710)). Hereinafter, descriptions of overlapping configurations having the same reference numerals as those illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 8 are omitted.

[0148] The third state of the electronic device (101) or the housing (200) is a state in which the first housing part (210) is folded with respect to the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) is unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220), as illustrated in FIG. 9A. For example, the third state is a state in which the first unbendable part (241) of the flexible display (240) faces the second unbendable part (242), and the second unbendable part (242) and the third unbendable part (243) are substantially positioned on the same plane. For example, the third state is a state in which the first bendable part (244) is bent, and the second bendable part (245) is unfolded. The third state is, but is not limited to, a single folded state or semi-folded state of the electronic device (101), unlike the second state of the electronic device (101) referred to as a multi-folded state illustrated in FIG. 9b, in that only the first housing part (210) is folded with respect to the second housing part (220).

[0149] The first housing part (210) includes a buffer member (810) configured to be in contact with the second housing part (220) or the second unbendable part (242) within the second state of the electronic device (101). The first housing part (210) reduces damage to the electronic device (101) due to friction between the first unbendable part (241) and the second unbendable part (242) (or friction between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220)) while the state of the electronic device (101) is changed by including the buffer member (810).

[0150] The protective member (420) is configured to be in contact with the buffer member (810). The protective member (420) includes, for example, a guide surface (423) for guiding movement of the first housing part (210) through the buffer member (810). The guide surface (423) is at least partially formed by a first fastening portion (421) of the protective member (420) that is slidably coupled to the first housing part (210) and a second fastening portion (422) of the protective member (420) that is slidably coupled to the second housing part (220).

[0151] For example, when referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B sequentially, during the change from the third state to the second state, the guide surface (423) moves away from the buffer member (810) along with the protective member (420) moving along the third housing part (230) rotating relative to the second housing part (220). As the guide surface (423) moves away from the buffer member (810), the buffer member (810) comes into contact with the second housing part (220) or the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240). For example, when referring to FIGS. 9B and 9A sequentially, during the change from the second state to the third state, the guide surface (423) comes into contact with the buffer member (810) along with the protective member (420) moving along the third housing part (230) rotating relative to the second housing part (220). The above guide surface (423) is configured to form a gap between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) by lifting the buffer member (810). The above guide surface (423) is configured to allow a user of the electronic device (101) to easily unfold the first housing part (210) relative to the second housing part (220) by lifting the first housing part (210) together with the buffer member (810) while changing from the second state to the third state.

[0152] Figure 10 illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 10, an electronic device (101) includes a housing (200) including a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A), and a third housing part (e.g., the third housing part (230) of FIG. 2A). The electronic device (101) includes a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2A) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (260) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a wider width (e.g., the width (w2) of FIG. 3A) than the first hinge assembly (250). The electronic device (101) comprises a first unbendable portion (e.g., the first unbendable portion (241) of FIG. 2a) supported by the first housing part (210), a second unbendable portion (e.g., the second unbendable portion (242) of FIG. 2a) supported by the second housing part (220), a third unbendable portion (e.g., the third unbendable portion (243) of FIG. 2a) supported by the third housing part (230), a first bendable portion (e.g., the first bendable portion (244) of FIG. 2a) at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly (250) and extending from the first unbendable portion (241) to the second unbendable portion (242), and a second hinge assembly (260) at least partially deformable by the second unbendable portion (242). A flexible display (240) is provided, which includes a second bendable portion (245) extending to the third unbendable portion (243). The electronic device (101) includes an elastic member (410) disposed on at least a portion of the second unbendable portion (242), at least a portion of the third unbendable portion (243), and an edge of the second bendable portion (245).However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) illustrated and described in FIG. 10 may include configurations illustrated and described in FIGS. 4A to 9B (e.g., another elastic member (430), another protective member (440), at least one rigid member (510), and an elastic portion (710)). Hereinafter, descriptions of overlapping configurations having the same reference numerals as those illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 9B are omitted.

[0154] The elastic member (410) includes a horizontal portion (1010) disposed on the front surface of the flexible display (240) and a vertical portion (1020) disposed on the side surface of the flexible display (240). The electronic device (101) includes additional elastic parts (1030) disposed on the elastic member (410) to support the elastic member (410). For example, the additional elastic parts (1030) include a first elastic part (1031) interposed between the protrusion (425) of the protective member (420) and the horizontal portion (1010), and a second elastic part (1032) disposed on the horizontal portion (1010) and the vertical portion (1020) to support the horizontal portion (1010). For example, the additional elastic parts (1030) are formed of a different material from the elastic member (410). For example, the additional elastic parts (1030) are formed integrally with the elastic member (410). The additional elastic parts (1030) are attached to the elastic member (410) by, for example, an adhesive material or double injection, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) includes the additional elastic parts (1030) for supporting the elastic member (410), thereby reducing the breakage of the elastic member (410) while the state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) changes.

[0155] As described above, a multi-foldable electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a foldable housing (e.g., housing (200) of FIG. 2A) including a first housing (e.g., first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing (e.g., second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A), and a third housing (e.g., third housing part (230) of FIG. 2A). The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2A) that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second hinge assembly (e.g., the second hinge assembly (260) of FIG. 2a) that rotatably connects the second housing and the third housing and has a wider width (e.g., w2 of FIG. 3a) than the first hinge assembly. The multi-foldable electronic device comprises a flexible display (e.g., a first unbendable portion (241) of FIG. 2A) supported by the first housing, a second unbendable portion (242) of FIG. 2A) supported by the second housing, a third unbendable portion (e.g., a third unbendable portion (243) of FIG. 2A) supported by the third housing, a first bendable portion (e.g., a first bendable portion (244) of FIG. 2A) at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly and extending from the first unbendable portion to the second unbendable portion, and a second bendable portion (e.g., a second bendable portion (245) of FIG. 2A) at least partially deformable by the second hinge assembly and extending from the second unbendable portion to the third unbendable portion. It may include a flexible display (240) of 2a.The multi-foldable electronic device may include an elastic member (e.g., an elastic member (410) of FIG. 4A) attached to at least a portion of the second unbendable portion, at least a portion of the third unbendable portion, and an edge of the second bendable portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first rigid member (e.g., a first rigid member (511) of FIG. 5A) attached to a first portion of the elastic member (e.g., a first portion (411) of FIG. 4A) attached to at least a portion of the second unbendable portion, and a second rigid member (e.g., a second rigid member (512) of FIG. 5A) attached to a second portion of the elastic member (e.g., a second portion (412) of FIG. 4A) attached to at least a portion of the third unbendable portion.

[0156] For example, the second bendable portion may include a planar portion (e.g., a planar portion (401) in FIG. 4d) that is substantially perpendicular and flat to the second unbendable portion and the third unbendable portion within the multi-folded state of the housing (e.g., the second state (101b) in FIG. 2b). The second bendable portion may include a first deformable portion (e.g., a first deformable portion (402) in FIG. 4d) that is bent by the second hinge assembly and extends from the planar portion to the second unbendable portion within the multi-folded state of the housing, and a second deformable portion (e.g., a second deformable portion (403) in FIG. 4d) that is bent by the second hinge assembly and extends from the planar portion to the third unbendable portion. The elastic member may further include a third portion (e.g., the third portion (413) of FIG. 4a) attached to the flat portion.

[0157] For example, the thickness of the third portion of the elastic member (e.g., t3 in FIG. 5a) may be greater than the thickness of the first portion of the elastic member (e.g., t1 in FIG. 5a) and the thickness of the second portion of the elastic member (e.g., t2 in FIG. 5a).

[0158] For example, the thickness of the third portion of the elastic member may be greater than the thickness of the first rigid member (e.g., t4 in FIG. 5a) and the thickness of the second rigid member (e.g., t5 in FIG. 5a).

[0159] For example, the multi-foldable electronic device may further include a third rigid member (e.g., the third rigid member (513) of FIG. 6B) attached to the third portion. The length of the third rigid member may be smaller than the length of the first rigid member and the length of the second rigid member.

[0160] For example, the elastic member may include a first connecting portion that connects the third portion and the first portion, is attached to the first deformable portion, and includes a first slit (e.g., the first slit (416a) of FIG. 5A) for guiding deformation of the first deformable portion. The elastic member may further include a second connecting portion that connects the third portion and the second portion, is attached to the second deformable portion, and includes a second slit (e.g., the second slit (416b) of FIG. 5A) for guiding deformation of the second deformable portion.

[0161] For example, the first connecting portion may include a first protective portion (e.g., the fourth vertical portion (414b) of FIG. 5A) attached to a side surface of the first deformable portion and having the first slit formed therein. The second connecting portion may include a second protective portion (e.g., the fifth vertical portion (415b) of FIG. 5A) attached to a side surface of the second deformable portion and having the second slit formed therein.

[0162] For example, the first hinge assembly may include a first hinge cover (e.g., the first hinge cover (255) of FIG. 4c) configured to be at least partially exposed to the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device. The second hinge assembly may include a second hinge cover (e.g., the second hinge cover (265) of FIG. 4d) configured to be at least partially exposed to the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device. The multi-foldable electronic device may further include a protective member (e.g., the protective member (420) of FIG. 4a) coupled to the second hinge cover and including a protrusion (e.g., the protrusion (425) of FIG. 4a) positioned at least partially over the second bendable portion.

[0163] For example, the protective member may further include a deformable elastic portion (e.g., elastic portion (710) of FIG. 7A) facing the first housing within the multi-folded state of the housing.

[0164] For example, the multi-foldable electronic device may further include at least a portion of the first unbendable portion, at least another portion of the second unbendable portion, and another elastic member (e.g., another elastic member (430) of FIG. 4c) attached to an edge of the first bendable portion. A length of the other elastic member (e.g., l1 of FIG. 4e) may be smaller than a length of the elastic member (e.g., l2 of FIG. 4f).

[0165] For example, the multi-foldable electronic device may further include another protective member (e.g., another protective member (440) of FIG. 4c) coupled to the first hinge cover and including another protrusion (e.g., another protrusion (445) of FIG. 4c) positioned at least partially over the first bendable portion. A width of the other protrusion (e.g., d1 of FIG. 4e) may be smaller than a width of the protrusion (e.g., d2 of FIG. 4f).

[0166] For example, at least one of the first rigid member and the second rigid member can be attached to the elastic member using an adhesive material or double injection.

[0167] For example, the elastic member may be configured to separate the first housing from the second bendable portion by being at least partially exposed to the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device so as to contact the first housing within the multi-folded state of the housing.

[0168] For example, the first rigid member may include a first opening extending along an edge of the second unbendable portion (e.g., the first opening (511a) of FIG. 5A). The second rigid member may include a second opening extending along an edge of the third unbendable portion (e.g., the second opening (512a) of FIG. 5A). The housing may further include a first decor member (e.g., the second decor member (225) of FIG. 4A) coupled to the first opening and covering the edge of the second unbendable portion together with the elastic member, and a second decor member (e.g., the third decor member (235) of FIG. 4A) coupled to the second opening and covering the edge of the third unbendable portion together with the elastic member.

[0169] For example, the elastic member may have a cantilever shape.

[0170] As described above, the multi-foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second hinge assembly rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing and having a wider width than the first hinge assembly. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a flexible display including a first unbendable portion supported by the first housing, a second unbendable portion supported by the second housing, a third unbendable portion supported by the third housing, a first bendable portion that is at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly and extends from the first unbendable portion to the second unbendable portion, and a second bendable portion that is at least partially deformable by the second hinge assembly and extends from the second unbendable portion to the third unbendable portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first elastic member (e.g., another elastic member (430) of FIG. 4C) attached to an edge of the first unbendable portion, the second unbendable portion, and the first bendable portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second elastic member (e.g., elastic member (410) of FIG. 4a) attached to an edge of the second unbendable portion, the third unbendable portion, and the second elastic member having a longer length (e.g., l2 of FIG. 4f) than the first elastic member. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first protective member (e.g., another protective member (440) of FIG. 4c) coupled to the first hinge assembly and including a first protrusion (e.g., another protrusion (445) of FIG. 4c) positioned at least partially over the first elastic member.The multi-foldable electronic device may include a second protective member (e.g., protective member (420) of FIG. 4a) coupled to the second hinge assembly and including a second protrusion (e.g., protrusion (425) of FIG. 4a) that is at least partially positioned over the second elastic member and has a width greater than that of the first protrusion (e.g., d2 of FIG. 4f).

[0171] For example, the second elastic member may include a first portion attached to the second unbendable portion, a second portion attached to the third unbendable portion, and a third portion attached to the second bendable portion. The multi-foldable electronic device may further include at least one rigid member attached to at least one of the first portion and the second portion.

[0172] For example, the second bendable portion may include a planar portion, to which the third portion of the elastic member is attached, within the multi-folded state of the housing and having a substantially perpendicular and flat shape with respect to the second unbendable portion and the third unbendable portion. The second bendable portion may include a first deformable portion that is bent by the second hinge assembly and extends from the planar portion to the second unbendable portion, and a second deformable portion that is bent by the second hinge assembly and extends from the planar portion to the third unbendable portion. The second protrusion of the second protective member may be positioned on the planar portion of the second bendable portion.

[0173] For example, the second protective member may further include an elastic portion that is deformable and faces the first housing within the multi-folded state of the housing.

[0174] For example, the elastic member may be configured to separate the first housing from the second bendable portion by being at least partially exposed to the exterior of the multi-foldable electronic device so as to contact the first housing within the multi-folded state of the housing.

[0175] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0176] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0177] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0178] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0180] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In a multi-foldable electronic device, A housing comprising a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing; A first hinge assembly that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing; A second hinge assembly that rotatably connects the second housing and the third housing and has a wider width than the first hinge assembly; A flexible display including a first part supported by the first housing, a second part supported by the second housing, and a third part supported by the third housing; and A cover is placed in a part of the above flexible display and includes a cover to prevent foreign substances from entering from the outside. The above cover, elastic member; and comprising a rigid member coupled to a portion of the elastic member; Multi-foldable electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, The flexible display includes a first folding portion between the first portion and the second portion and a second folding portion between the second portion and the third portion, The above rigid member is, A first rigid member disposed on the first elastic portion of the elastic member corresponding to the second portion; and A second rigid member is disposed on the second elastic portion of the elastic member corresponding to the third portion, The second folding portion, within the multi-folding state of the housing: A planar region having a substantially perpendicular and substantially flat shape with respect to the second portion and the third portion; a first curved area that is bent by the second hinge assembly and extends from the flat area to the second portion; and A second curved area is bent by the second hinge assembly and extends from the flat area to the third portion, The above elastic member is, Including a third elastic part disposed on the above-mentioned plane area, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

3. In paragraph 2, The first folding portion is at least partially deformable by the first hinge assembly and extends from the first portion to the second portion, The second folding portion is at least partially deformable by the second hinge assembly and extends from the second portion to the third portion, The thickness of the third elastic portion of the elastic member is: The thickness of the first elastic portion of the elastic member is greater than the thickness of the second elastic portion of the elastic member, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

4. In paragraph 2 or 3, The thickness of the third elastic portion of the elastic member is: The thickness of the first rigid member is greater than the thickness of the second rigid member, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

5. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 4, The above rigid member is, Further comprising a third rigid member disposed on the third elastic portion of the elastic member, The length of the third rigid member is The length of the first rigid member is smaller than the length of the second rigid member, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

6. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 5, The above elastic member is, A first connecting portion connecting the third elastic portion and the first elastic portion, attached to the first curved area, and including a first slit for guiding deformation of the first curved area; and A second connecting portion that connects the third elastic portion and the second elastic portion, is attached to the second curved area, and includes a second slit for guiding deformation of the second curved area. Multi-foldable electronic devices.

7. In paragraph 6, The above first connecting part is, A first protective portion is attached to a side of the first curved area and has the first slit formed therein, The above second connecting part, A second protective portion attached to the side of the second curved area and having the second slit formed therein, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, a first hinge cover at least partially surrounding the first hinge assembly; and a second hinge cover at least partially surrounding the second hinge assembly; and Further comprising a protective member coupled to the second hinge cover and including a protrusion positioned at least partially above the second folding portion; Multi-foldable electronic devices.

9. In paragraph 8, The above protective member is, Further comprising a deformable elastic portion facing the side of the first housing within the multi-folding state of the housing; Multi-foldable electronic devices.

10. In paragraph 8, Further comprising another elastic member disposed on the first part, the second part, and the first folding part, The length of the other elastic member is, Less than the length of the above elastic member, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

11. In paragraph 10, further comprising another protective member coupled to the first hinge cover and including another protrusion positioned at least partially over the first folding portion; The width of the other protrusion above is, smaller than the width of the above protrusion, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above rigid member is, Attached to the above elastic member through adhesive material, injection molding, or double injection, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The above elastic member is, Within the multi-folded state of the housing, the first housing is configured to be separated from the second folding portion by being at least partially exposed to the outside of the multi-foldable electronic device so as to come into contact with the first housing. Multi-foldable electronic devices.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above rigid member is, a first rigid member comprising a first opening extending along an edge of the second portion; and a second rigid member including a second opening extending along an edge of the third portion; The above housing, A first fastening structure coupled to the first opening, and a first decorative member covering the edge of the second portion together with the elastic member; and A second fastening structure coupled to the second opening, further comprising a second decorative member covering the edge of the third portion together with the elastic member. Multi-foldable electronic devices.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The above elastic member is, Supported by a cantilever beam, Multi-foldable electronic devices.

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