Electronic device including housing with marker and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

This foldable electronic device comprises a housing, which may include: a first housing part including a bracket, which includes a marker, and a sidewall, which is disposed at the edge of the bracket; and a second housing part rotatably coupled to the first housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable display disposed on the bracket of the first housing part and spaced apart from the sidewall of the first housing part. The marker may be disposed between a corner portion of the sidewall and a corner portion of the foldable display facing the corner portion of the sidewall.

Description

Electronic device including a housing having a marker and method for manufacturing the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a housing having a marker and a method of manufacturing the same.

[0002] A display and a housing of a portable electronic device can be assembled by compression. The display and the housing are each mounted on jigs, and the jigs are pressed against each other so that the display and the housing can be assembled. During the assembly and product inspection of the display and the housing, the display and the housing can be positioned at designated locations using identification marks, such as markers.

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

[0004] A foldable electronic device may include a housing. The housing may include a first housing part and a second housing part rotatably coupled to the first housing part. The first housing part may include a bracket and a side wall. The bracket may include a marker. The side wall may be disposed at an edge of the bracket. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable display. The foldable display may be disposed on the bracket of the first housing part and spaced apart from the side wall of the first housing part. The marker may be disposed between a corner portion of the side wall and a corner portion of the foldable display facing the corner portion of the side wall.

[0005] A method for manufacturing a foldable electronic device may include an operation of placing a housing of the foldable electronic device on a first jig. The method may further include an operation of identifying that the housing is placed in a designated area on the first jig based on obtaining an image including a marker located at a corner portion of a bracket of the housing through an optical device. The method for manufacturing the foldable electronic device may further include an operation of placing a foldable display of the foldable electronic device on a second jig. The method for manufacturing the foldable electronic device may further include an operation of identifying that the foldable display is placed in a designated area on the second jig based on obtaining an image of a corner portion of the foldable display through an optical device. The method for manufacturing the foldable electronic device may further include an operation of moving the second jig on the first jig so that the foldable display comes into contact with the bracket. The method for manufacturing the foldable electronic device may further include an operation of pressing the first jig and the second jig to compress the foldable display to the bracket. The method for manufacturing the above foldable electronic device may further include an operation of acquiring an image of a corner portion of the bracket to which the foldable display is attached through an optical device to identify the corner portion of the foldable display and the marker.

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

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

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

[0009] FIG. 2 is an exemplary plan view of an electronic device including a housing having a marker, according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a housing having a marker, according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view showing an exemplary arrangement of a corner portion of a display and a marker, according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figures 5a, 5b, and 5c illustrate the shapes of exemplary markers.

[0013] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view showing an exemplary arrangement of markers according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an electronic device including a protective member covering a portion of an edge of a display.

[0015] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a manufacturing process of a foldable electronic device.

[0016] Figure 9a is a drawing showing an exemplary process for placing a display on a jig.

[0017] Figure 9b is a drawing showing an exemplary process for placing a housing on a jig.

[0018] Figure 9c is a drawing showing a process for inspecting the assembly status of a housing in which a display is assembled.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment, FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 1C is an exploded view of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (110), a second housing part (120), and a foldable display (130). The electronic device (101) may be referred to as a foldable electronic device at the point where it folds around the folding axis (137).

[0022] The electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (110), a second housing part (120), a hinge structure (160), a foldable display (130), a printed circuit board (150), a display (135), and / or a back plate (190). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of the components or additionally include other components.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first housing part (110) may define a portion of an outer surface of the electronic device (101). The first housing part (110) may define a first side surface (111), a second side surface (112) spaced apart from and opposite the first side surface (111), and a first side surface of a first side wall (113) surrounding at least a portion of the first side surface (111) and the second side surface (112). In one embodiment, the first housing part (110) may provide a space defined by the first side surface (111), the second side surface (112), and the first side surface as a space for arranging components of the electronic device (101).

[0024] In one embodiment, the second side wall (123) may be pivotally connected to the first side wall (113) via a hinge structure (160) disposed on a hinge cover (165). The hinge structure (160) may include a hinge module and hinge plates (166, 167). The hinge plates may include a first hinge plate (166) and a second hinge plate (167), and the first hinge plate (166) may be connected to the first housing part (110), and the second hinge plate (167) may be connected to the second housing part (120).

[0025] In one embodiment, the second housing part (120) may include a third face (121), a fourth face (122) facing and spaced from the third face (121), and a second side wall (123) surrounding at least a portion of the third face (121) and the fourth face (122). The second housing part (120) may provide a space defined by the third face (121), the fourth face (122), and the second side of the second side wall (123) as a space for arranging components of the electronic device (101).

[0026] In one embodiment, the foldable display (130) may include a window exposed to the outside. The window may protect the surface of the foldable display (130) and may be formed of a transparent material to transmit visual information provided from the foldable display (130) to the outside. The window may include a glass material such as ultra-thin glass (UTG) or a polymer material such as polyimide (PI).

[0027] In one embodiment, the foldable display (130) may form at least a portion of a first side (111) of the first housing part (110) (e.g., a front side of the first housing part (110)) and a third side (121) of the second housing part (120) (e.g., a front side of the second housing part (120)). The foldable display (130) may be disposed on the first side (111) of the first housing part (110) and the third side (121) of the second housing part (120) across a hinge structure (160) within a hinge cover (165). The foldable display (130) may be configured to bend within a folded state of the electronic device (101) by the hinge structure (160). The foldable display (130) may include a first display area (131), a second display area (132), and a third display area (133). For example, the foldable display (130) may include a first display area (131) disposed on a first surface (111) of a first housing, a second display area (132) disposed on a third surface (121) of a second housing, and a third display area (133) between the first display area (131) and the second display area (132). The foldable display (130) may be supported by a first bracket (170) of the first housing part (110) and a second bracket (180) of the second housing part (120).

[0028] According to one embodiment, the foldable display (130) may include an opening formed in a portion of the screen display area, or a support member (e.g., a bracket) that supports the foldable display (130) may include a recess or an opening. The electronic device (101) may include at least one camera aligned with the recess or the opening. For example, the first display area (131) may further include at least one camera (136) that can acquire an image from the outside through a portion of the first display area (131). According to one embodiment, at least one camera (136) may be included on the rear surface of the foldable display (130) corresponding to the first display area (131) or the second display area (132) of the foldable display (130). For example, the at least one camera (136) may be disposed below the foldable display (130) and may be surrounded by the foldable display (130). At least one camera (136) may be an under-display camera (UDC) that is covered by the foldable display (130) and is not exposed to the outside. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the foldable display (130) may include an opening that exposes at least one camera (136) to the outside. In one embodiment, the camera (136) may acquire images of the external environment and / or external objects through the opening.

[0029] In one embodiment, the fourth side (122) of the second housing part (120) may further include at least one camera (134) and display (135) exposed through a portion of the fourth side (122).

[0030] In one embodiment, the hinge structure (160) may be configured to pivotally connect a first bracket (170) forming a first housing part (110) and a second bracket (180) forming a second housing part (120).

[0031] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be in one of a folded state, an unfolded state, or an intermediate state. The folded state may be a state in which the first surface (111) of the first housing part (110) and the third surface (121) of the second housing part (120) face each other. In the folded state, the direction in which the first surface (111) faces and the direction in which the third surface (121) faces may be opposite to each other. The unfolded state may be a state in which the first surface (111) of the first housing part (110) and the third surface (121) of the second housing part (120) are substantially continuous planes. In the unfolded state, the direction in which the first surface (111) faces and the direction in which the third surface (121) faces may be the same. The intermediate state may be a state between the unfolded state and the folded state. In the intermediate state, the direction in which the first side (111) faces and the direction in which the third side (121) faces may be different.

[0032] In one embodiment, while the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the hinge cover (165) surrounding the hinge structure (160) may be at least partially exposed between the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120). In another embodiment, while the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (165) may be covered by the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120).

[0033] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can be folded about a folding axis (137) passing through the hinge cover (165) or the hinge structure (160). For example, the hinge structure (160) within the hinge cover (165) can be positioned between the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) of the electronic device (101) to enable the electronic device (101) to be bent, curved, or folded. For example, the first housing part (110) can be connected to the second housing part (120) through the hinge structure (160) positioned within the hinge cover (165) and can be rotated about the folding axis (137).

[0034] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can be folded such that the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) face each other by rotating about the folding axis (137). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can be folded such that the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) cover or overlap each other.

[0035] The hinge structure (160) may include a hinge module and hinge plates (166, 167). The hinge module may include a hinge gear (162, 163) that enables the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) to pivot.

[0036] The first housing part (110) may include a first bracket (170), and the second housing part (120) may include a second bracket (180). The first bracket (170) may be partially surrounded by the first side wall (113), and the second bracket (180) may be partially surrounded by the second side wall (123). The first bracket (170) may be formed integrally with the first side wall (113), and the second bracket (180) may be formed integrally with the second side wall (123). According to one embodiment, the first bracket (170) may be formed separately from the first side wall (113), and the second bracket (180) may be formed separately from the second side wall (123). The first side wall (113) and the second side wall (123) may be formed of a metallic material, a non-metallic material, or a combination thereof. For example, the first side wall (113) may include a conductive portion (118) and a non-conductive portion (119). The conductive portion (118) may be used as a radiator of the antenna.

[0037] One side of the first bracket (170) can be coupled with the rear plate (190), and the other side of the first bracket (170) can be coupled with the foldable display (130). One side of the second bracket (180) can be coupled with the display (135), and the other side of the second bracket (180) can be coupled with the foldable display (130).

[0038] A printed circuit board (150) and a battery may be placed in the space between the surface formed by the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180) and the surface formed by the display (135) and the rear plate (190). The printed circuit board (150) may be separated so that it may be placed in each of the first bracket (170) of the first housing part (110) and the second bracket (180) of the second housing part (120). Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device (101) may be placed on the printed circuit board (150).

[0039] FIG. 2 is an exemplary plan view of an electronic device including a housing having a marker, according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of an electronic device including a housing having a marker, according to one embodiment.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 2, the electronic device (101) (or foldable electronic device) may include a housing including a first housing part (110) and a second housing part (120), and a display (130) (or foldable display).

[0041] The first housing part (110) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (120). For example, a hinge structure (160) (e.g., the hinge structure (160) of FIG. 1C) can rotatably couple the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120).

[0042] The first housing part (110) may include a first side wall (113) and a first bracket (170). The first bracket (170) may be coupled with a first hinge plate (166) of the hinge structure (160). The first side wall (113) may be positioned along at least a portion of an edge of the first bracket (170). The second housing part (120) may include a second side wall (123) and a second bracket (180). The second bracket (180) may be coupled with a second hinge plate (167) of the hinge structure (160). The second side wall (123) may be positioned along at least a portion of an edge of the second bracket (180). The first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180) can be coupled to corresponding hinge plates (166, 167) so as to be rotatably coupled with respect to the hinge structure (160).

[0043] The display (130) may be placed on the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180). For example, the display (130) may be attached to one surface of the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180) via an adhesive member. The adhesive member may include a waterproof tape, an adhesive tape, an adhesive, or a double-sided tape. The display (130) may be spaced apart from the first side wall (113). The display (130) may be spaced apart from the second side wall (123). For example, the display (130) may be placed on one surface of the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180) that is surrounded by the first side wall (113) and the second side wall (123), and may not be in contact with the first side wall (113) and the second side wall (123).

[0044] The first bracket (170) and / or the second bracket (180) may include a marker (M). The marker (M) may be a groove formed from one surface of the first bracket (170) and / or the second bracket (180) by a laser. The marker (M) may be placed in at least one corner portion among the corner portions (C1, C2, C3, C4) of the electronic device (101). The marker (M) included in the first bracket (170) may be placed between the corner portions (C1, C2) of the first side wall (113) and the corner portion of the display (130) facing the corner portion of the first side wall (113). The marker (M) included in the second bracket (180) may be placed between the corner portions (C3, C4) of the second side wall (123) and the corner portions of the display (130) facing the corner portions of the second side wall (123). The marker (M) may be placed between the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123) and be visible. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a material may be placed in the gap between the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123) where the marker (M) is placed. For example, the material may include a buffering material that reduces external impact, a sealing member that reduces the inflow of external foreign substances, or a combination thereof.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 3, the display (130) may include a cover layer (301) and a plurality of layers (310). The cover layer (301) may define the outer surface of the electronic device (101) or the outer surface of the display (130). The cover layer (301) may be positioned at the outermost portion of the display (130). The cover layer (301) may be exposed or visible to the outside.

[0046] The cover layer (301) can protect the plurality of layers (310) of the display (130). The cover layer (301) can be referred to as a protective layer in terms of protecting the plurality of layers (310). The cover layer (301) can include a transparent material. For example, the cover layer (301) can include glass, ultra-thin glass (UTG), or a transparent polymer. The cover layer (301) can be referred to as a transparent layer in terms of including the transparent material. The cover layer (301) can transmit light emitted from the plurality of layers (310) to the outside of the electronic device (101). The cover layer (301) can function as a cover glass or a window. The cover layer (301) can define at least a portion of the front surface of the electronic device (101).

[0047] The plurality of layers (310) may include a display panel for driving the display (130). For example, the plurality of layers (310) may include layers that function as a transparent member, a polarizer, a color filter, a pixel layer, a touch panel (or a touch pattern), a digitizer, and / or a thin film transistor. The plurality of layers (310) may be attached to each other by an adhesive or an adhesive layer. The polarizer may reduce the amount of light reflected within the display (130) after being incident from the outside of the electronic device (101). As the amount of light reflected within the display (130) is reduced by the polarizer, the visibility of the display (130) may be improved. To improve visibility, the display (130) may include a color filter instead of a polarizer. Without being limited thereto, the display (130) may include both a polarizer and a color filter. The pixel layer may be configured to provide visual information to the outside. The pixel layer may be configured to emit light of a specified color from each pixel. The pixel layer may be configured to operate by a thin film transistor. The touch panel or digitizer may be configured to receive external input transmitted through the surface of the display (130).

[0048] The distance between the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123) may be approximately 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm. The distance between the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123) may vary depending on the slip direction of the display (130). When the electronic device (101), which is a foldable electronic device, is folded, the display (130) including a plurality of layers may have a large curvature in the outermost layer (e.g., a cover layer) of the display (130) and a small curvature in the layers of the display (130) facing the inside of the electronic device. As the layers have different curvatures, the outermost layer may move more in the vertical direction with respect to the folding axis than the other layers. To reduce interference between the display (130) and the sidewall (113, 123) due to slip, the distance between a portion (or edge) of the sidewall (113, 123) perpendicular to the slip direction and the display (130) may be greater than the distance between another portion (or another edge) of the sidewall (113, 123) and the display (130). For example, the distance between the display (130) and another portion (or another edge) of the sidewall (113, 123) may be approximately 0.15 mm to 0.3 mm. The distance between the display (130) and a portion (or edge) of the sidewall (113, 123) may be approximately 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm.

[0049] To reduce the distance between the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123), the display (130) may omit a marker displayed on one of the plurality of layers (e.g., a lattice layer). By omitting the marker of the display (130), the display (130) can be positioned closer to the side walls (113, 123). By making the appearance of the side surface of the display (130) uniform overall, the distance between the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123) is substantially uniform, and the display (130) can be positioned closer to the side walls (113, 123).

[0050] The display (130) may include a plurality of layers (310) and a cover layer (301) laminated on the plurality of layers (310). After the plurality of layers (310) and the cover layer (301) are laminated, they may be cut along a designated outer shape. The plurality of layers (310) may be aligned with the cover layer (301). As the plurality of layers (310) and the cover layer (301) are cut along the designated outer shape, the cover layer (301) may have the same outer shape as some of the layers among the plurality of layers (310). For example, the width of the cover layer (301) may be the same as the width of some of the layers among the plurality of layers (310). The width of the cover layer (301) may be wider than the widths of other layers among the plurality of layers (310).

[0051] The appearance of some of the layers among the plurality of layers (310) may be aligned with the appearance of the cover layer (301). For example, the appearance of some of the layers among the plurality of layers (310) may be consistent with the appearance of the cover layer (301) when the display (130) is viewed from above. For example, some of the layers among the plurality of layers (310) may completely overlap the cover layer (301) when the display is viewed from above. Other layers among the plurality of layers (310) may have boundaries that are biased from the side of the display (130) toward the inside of the display (130). For example, other layers among the plurality of layers (310) may be recessed inward from the side of the display (130).

[0052] The marker (M) may be formed on the first bracket (170) and / or the second bracket (180). The marker (M) may be positioned between the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123) at a corner portion of the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123). The marker (M) may be positioned between the display (130) and the side walls (113, 123) that are parallel to the slip direction of the display (130). For example, the marker (M) may be positioned in an area that is not covered by the display (130). The marker (M) may be positioned in an area other than an area that may be covered by the slip of the display (130). The marker (M) may be a groove formed through laser etching on the first bracket (170) and / or the second bracket (180). The marker (M) may be circular with a diameter of approximately 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm. The marker (M) may be positioned between the side surface of the display (130) and the first side wall (113) (or the second side wall (123)). For example, the marker (M) may be positioned between the display (130) and the first side wall (113) (or the second side wall (123)). After the display (130) is assembled to the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120), the marker (M) positioned between the display (130) and the side wall of the housing (e.g., the first side wall (113) or the second side wall (123)) may be visually identified. Based on the positional relationship between the identified marker (M) and the display (130), the assembly state of the display (130) may be determined. The shape of the marker (M) can be formed in various ways, and the shape of the marker (M) is described later through FIGS. 5a, 5b, and 5c.

[0053] The process of determining the assembly status of the display (130) is explained through Fig. 4.

[0054] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view illustrating an exemplary arrangement of a corner portion of a display and a marker according to one embodiment. FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C illustrate the shapes of exemplary markers. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view illustrating an exemplary arrangement of markers according to one embodiment.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, corner portions (C1, C2, C3, C4) of the display (130) may be rounded. Corner portions (C1, C2) of the first housing part (110) may be rounded. Corner portions (C3, C4) of the second housing part (120) may be rounded. Corner portions (C1, C2) of the first housing part (110) and corner portions (C3, C4) of the second housing part (120) may face corresponding corner portions (C1, C2, C3, C4) of the display (130).

[0056] The display (130) may include an active area (130a) and a non-active area (130b). The active area (130a) may be surrounded by the non-active area (130b). The active area (130a) may include pixels. For example, the active area (130a) may be an area in which light for visual information is provided to the outside through the light-emitting layer of the display (130). The corners of the active area (130a) may be rounded. The corners of the non-active area (130b) may be rounded to correspond to the corners of the active area (130a). Wires for pixels arranged in the active area may be arranged in the non-active area (130b). The non-active area (130b) may be visually obscured by an opaque material applied to a window or cover layer of the display. For example, the wires arranged in the non-active area (130b) may be obscured by the opaque material.

[0057] In order to identify the assembly state or adhesion state of the display (130) disposed in the housing including the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120), a reference point of the display (130) for comparison with the position of the marker (M) may be required. The intersection of virtual lines (e1, e2) extending from an edge toward a corner of an edge of an active area (130a) of the display (130) may become the reference point (dM) of the display (130). The marker (M) may be disposed within a specified distance from the reference point (dM) of the display (130). For example, the marker (M) may be disposed within a specified distance from the intersection of two edges of the active area (130a) toward a corner of the active area (130a). The specified distance may be within the field of view of an optical device (e.g., a camera) that inspects the assembly state of the display (130) and the housing.

[0058] The marker (M) may be formed so as to distinguish a portion of the first bracket (170) and a portion of the second bracket (180) around the marker (M). For example, the marker (M) may be a groove formed from one surface of the first bracket (170) or one surface of the second bracket (180). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the marker (M) may be formed in various shapes or methods. The marker (M) may be a protrusion protruding from one surface of the first bracket (170) or one surface of the second bracket (180). The material of the marker (M) may be different from the material of the first bracket (170) and the material of the second bracket (180) around the marker (M). For example, the marker (M) may be a non-conductive material (e.g., a polymer). The first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180) may include a conductive portion including a conductive material (e.g., metal) and a non-conductive portion including a non-conductive material. The marker (M) may be part of the non-conductive portion, and the marker (M) may be formed by double injection molding. The color of the marker (M) may be different from the material of the first bracket (170) and the color of the second bracket (180) around the marker (M).

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, the marker (M) may be formed in various shapes. The marker (M) may have various shapes that can be placed in the gap between the side surface of the display (130) and the first side wall (113) or the gap between the side surface of the display (130) and the second side wall (123). For example, the marker may be circular with a diameter of 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm. For example, the marker (M-1) may be placed in a square shape. The length of the diagonal of the marker (M-1) may be smaller than the distance between the side surface of the display (130) and the first side wall (113) or the distance between the side surface of the display (130) and the second side wall (123). For example, the length of the diagonal of the marker (M-1) may be 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm. For example, the marker (M-2) may be arranged in a rhombus shape. When the major axis and minor axis of the rhombus are different from each other, the length of the diagonal line passing through the major axis of the marker (M-2) may be less than the distance between the side surface of the display (130) and the first side wall (113) or the distance between the side surface of the display (130) and the second side wall (123). For example, the length of the diagonal line passing through the major axis of the marker (M-2) may be approximately 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm. For example, the marker (M-3) may be in a triangular shape. The longest height among the heights of the triangle may be less than the distance between the side surface of the display (130) and the first side wall (113) or the distance between the side surface of the display (130) and the second side wall (123).

[0060] The marker (M) may also have a circular or polygonal shape. The longest length of a line segment crossing the interior of the marker (M) (e.g., the diameter of a circle or the longest diagonal of a polygon) may be less than the distance between the side surface of the display (130) and the first side wall (113) or the distance between the side surface of the display (130) and the second side wall (123).

[0061] The marker (M) may be placed at at least one corner portion among the corner portions of the electronic device (101). For example, the marker (M) may be placed at the first housing part (110) or the second housing part (120). The marker (M) may be placed at one corner portion of the first housing part (110) and one corner portion of the second housing part (120). The marker (M) may be placed at four corner portions of the housing including the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120).

[0062] Referring to FIG. 6, the marker (M) may be disposed on the side walls (113, 123) instead of being disposed on the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180). For example, the marker (M) may be disposed on the side walls (113, 123) located at the corner portions of the first housing part (110) and / or the second housing part (120). The marker (M') disposed on the side walls (113, 123) may also be disposed within a specified distance from the reference point (dM) of the display (130), which is the intersection of virtual lines (e1, e2) extending from the edge of the active area (130a) of the display (130) toward the corner portion. For example, the marker (M') may be disposed within a specified distance from the intersection of two edges of the active area (130a) toward the corner portion of the active area (130a). The above-specified distance may be within the field of view range of an optical device (e.g., a camera) that inspects the assembly status of the display (130) and the housing.

[0063] According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (101) can omit a structure (e.g., a cover (710) to be described later in FIG. 7) covering the space between the display (130) and the side walls by reducing the distance between the display (130) and the first side wall (113) of the first bracket (170) and the second side wall (123) of the second bracket (180). By omitting the cover, the material cost of the electronic device can be reduced. By reducing the distance between the display (130) and the side walls, the area other than the active area (130a) of the display (130) on the front surface of the electronic device (101) can be reduced. By reducing the inactive area (130b), the design of the electronic device (101) can be improved.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an electronic device including a protective member covering a portion of an edge of a display.

[0065] The electronic device (700) may include a display (730), a first side wall (113), a second side wall (123), a first bracket (170), a second bracket (180), and a cover (710). Among the layers constituting the display (730), one layer (730-1) may include a first marker (M-1'), and the first bracket (170) or the second bracket (180) may include a second marker (M-2'). The display (730) may include a layer (730-1) that functions as a lattice plate. The layer (730-1) may reinforce the rigidity of the display (730). The layer (730-1) may include a metal layer having rigidity or a composite material (e.g., carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP)). The layer (730-1) may include a plurality of slits within the bendable portion around the folding axis (137) to provide bending of the display (730) along the folding axis (e.g., the folding axis (137) of FIG. 1A) while reinforcing the rigidity of the display (730). The layer (730-1) may protrude from the edge of the display (730). The layer (730-1) may include a portion protruding outside the boundary of the outermost layer of the display (730). The first marker (M-1') may be disposed on the protruding portion.

[0066] By comparing the positions of the first marker (M-1') and the second marker (M-2'), the assembled state of the housing and the display (730) can be identified. In order to identify the first marker (M-1') and the second marker (M-2'), the display (730) can be spaced relatively far from the first side wall (113) or the second side wall (123). The cover (710) can extend from the first side wall (113) (or the second side wall (123)) to the edge of the display (730) to cover the spaced-off space. The cover (710) can be formed to cover a portion of the edge of the display (730). The cover (710) can be referred to as a trim or a decor in terms of being a decoration placed on the edge of the display (730).

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 7, comparing the electronic device (700) of FIG. 7 with the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3, the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) of the electronic device (101) may omit the cover (710). For example, the first housing part (110) may omit the cover (e.g., cover (710) of FIG. 7) extending from the side wall (113) of the first housing part (110) onto the edge portion of the display (130). The second housing part (120) may omit the cover (e.g., cover (710) of FIG. 7) extending from the side wall (123) of the second housing part (120) onto the edge portion of the display (130).

[0068] In order to omit the cover, the display (130) of the electronic device (101) may omit a portion protruding from the side wall of the foldable display including the first marker (M-1') corresponding to the marker. For example, the display (130) may include a layer (or lattice plate) in which the marker is omitted. The layer (or lattice plate) not including the marker may have the same appearance as the cover layer (301) of the display (130). For example, the layer (or lattice plate) may be completely overlapped by the cover layer (301) of the display (130). Since the display (130) does not include markers, it may not include layers protruding beyond the outer surface of the cover layer (301), thereby reducing the distance between the cover layer (301) of the display (130) and the first side wall (113) (or the second side wall (123)). The electronic device (101) can increase the area of ​​the active area of ​​the display (130) by omitting the cover (710) and can improve the aesthetics by minimizing the inactive area and the mechanism outside the display (130).

[0069] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the manufacturing process of a foldable electronic device. Figure 9a is a diagram illustrating an exemplary process for placing a display on a jig. Figure 9b is a diagram illustrating an exemplary process for placing a housing on a jig. Figure 9c is a diagram illustrating a process for inspecting the assembly status of a housing into which a display is assembled.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9A, a method for manufacturing an electronic device or a method for inspecting a housing and a display may include an operation (801) of placing a display (130) on a first jig (901) and inspecting the position of the display.

[0071] For example, the display (130) of the electronic device may be placed on the first jig (901). Before the display (130) is mounted on the first jig (901), an edge portion of the display (130) of the electronic device may be cut. For example, an edge portion of a plurality of stacked layers of the display (130) may be cut so that the outermost layer (e.g., glass or a protective layer) of the display (130) may form an outline of the display.

[0072] The optical device (991) can obtain an image of the display (130) placed on the first jig (901). For example, the optical device (991) can obtain an image including a corner portion of the display (130) through an opening (O) in the first jig (901). Based on the image of the corner portion of the display (130) obtained through the optical device (991), the position of the display (130) placed within a designated area on the first jig (901) can be identified. For example, if the corner portion of the display (130) is located within the opening (O) in the image of the optical device (991), the position of the display (130) can be within the designated area. For example, based on the fact that the reference point of the display (e.g., the reference point (dM) of FIG. 4), which is the intersection of virtual lines (e1, e2 of FIG. 4) extending from edges toward the corner portion of the active area (130a) of the display (130), is confirmed through the opening (O), it can be identified that the position of the display (130) is located within the designated area.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9B, a method for manufacturing an electronic device or a method for inspecting a housing and a display may include an operation (803) of placing a housing on a second jig (902) and inspecting a position of the housing. The housing placed on the second jig (902) may include a first housing part (110) and a second housing part (120). The housing may include a marker (M) placed on at least one of two corners of a first bracket (170) of the first housing part (110) and two corners of a second bracket (180) of the second housing part (120). The marker (M) may be placed on at least one of two corners of the first housing part (110) that are farther from the folding axis (137). The marker (M) may be placed on at least one of two corners of the second housing part (120) that are farther from the folding axis (137). A groove, which is the marker (M), can be formed in the corner portion of the brackets (170, 180) included in the housing of the electronic device by means of a laser.

[0074] A housing of an electronic device having a marker (M) formed on a second jig (902) can be placed. By acquiring an image including a marker (M) located at a corner portion of a bracket of the housing through an optical device (992), it is possible to identify that the housing is placed in a designated area on the second jig (902). For example, the optical device (992) can acquire an image of a first housing part (110) or a second housing part (120) placed on the second jig (902). For example, the optical device (992) can acquire an image including a marker (M) located at a corner portion of the first housing part (110) or the second housing part (120) placed on the second jig (902). Based on the image of the corner portion of the housing acquired through the optical device (992), the position of the housing including the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) placed within a designated area on the second jig (902) can be identified. The housing can be identified as being placed at the designated position through the position of the marker (M) and the marker indicated on the second jig (902) in the image acquired through the optical device (992). If the distance between the marker (M) indicated on the first bracket (170) or the second bracket (180) of the housing and the marker indicated on the second jig (902) is within the designated distance, the housing can be identified as being placed at the designated position.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 8, a method of manufacturing an electronic device or a method of inspecting a housing and a display may include an operation (805) of pressing a display into a housing.

[0076] The first jig (901) can be moved on the second jig (902) so that the display (130) comes into contact with the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180). The first jig (901) and the second jig (902) can be rotatably coupled to each other. For example, the first jig (901) and the second jig (902) can be hinge-coupled. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first jig (901) and the second jig (902) can be separated, and the first jig (901) can be moved to a designated position of the second jig (902) by the device. The display (130) placed on the first jig (901) can be placed to face the housing placed on the second jig (902). By applying pressure to the first jig (901) and the second jig (902), the display (130) can be pressed onto the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180).

[0077] An adhesive (or adhesive tape) may be placed between the display (130) and the first bracket (170) and between the display (130) and the second bracket (180). By the pressing, the display (130) may be attached to the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180).

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9c, a method for manufacturing an electronic device or a method for inspecting a housing and a display may include an operation (807) of inspecting an assembly state by identifying a marker of a housing and a corner portion of an active area of ​​a display.

[0079] Based on acquiring an image of a corner portion of the bracket (170 or 180) (or the first housing part (110) or the second housing part (120)) to which the display (130) is attached through an optical device, the corner portion of the display (130) and the marker (M) can be identified. For example, based on identifying the presence of the marker (M) and a reference point (dM), which is an intersection of imaginary lines (e1, e2) of two edges of the active area of ​​the display (130) toward the corner portion, in the acquired image, the assembly state of the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180) and the display (130) can be identified. For example, the assembly state of the display (130) and the first bracket (170) and the second bracket (180) can be identified based on identifying whether the reference point (dM), which is the intersection point, and the marker (M) are arranged within the field of view range (f) of the optical device (C). It can be known that the display (130) is arranged in the designated area of ​​the first bracket (170) of the first housing part (110) and the second bracket (180) of the second housing part (120) based on identifying whether the reference point (dM), which is the intersection point, and the marker (M) are arranged within the field of view range (f) of the optical device (C).

[0080] Operation 805 of pressing the display onto the housing can be performed after operation 807. For example, operation 807 can be performed after placing the first jig (901) on which the display (130) is placed on the second jig (902) on which the housing is placed, and removing the first jig (901). After operation 807 is performed, when the display (130) is placed at a designated position, the first jig (901) can be placed again on the housing on which the display (130) is placed and pressed.

[0081] According to the above-described embodiment, the method for manufacturing an electronic device and the method for inspecting a display and a housing can reduce the attachment tolerance or the assembly tolerance by using the same reference used when attaching the display to the housing and the reference used when inspecting after assembly (e.g., the marker (M) and the reference point (dM)).

[0082] The technical tasks to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this document pertains.

[0083] According to the above-described embodiment, a foldable electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1A) may include a housing. The housing may include a first housing part (e.g., first housing part (110) of FIG. 1A) and a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (120) of FIG. 1A) rotatably coupled to the first housing part. The first housing part may include a bracket (e.g., first bracket (170) of FIG. 3) including a marker (e.g., marker (M) of FIG. 3) and a side wall (e.g., side wall (113) of FIG. 3) disposed at an edge of the bracket. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable display (e.g., display (130) of FIG. 3). The foldable display may be disposed on the bracket of the first housing part and spaced apart from a side wall of the first housing part. The marker may be placed between a corner portion of the side wall and a corner portion of the foldable display facing the corner portion of the side wall.

[0084] To omit the decorative cover, the display of the electronic device may omit a portion protruding from the sidewall of the foldable display for a mark corresponding to a marker included in the bracket. For example, the display may include a layer (or lattice plate) that omits the marker. For example, the layer (or lattice plate) may be completely overlapped by the cover layer of the display. Since the display does not include the marker, it may not include layers that protrude beyond the periphery of the cover layer. Omitting the marker may reduce the distance between the cover layer of the display and the sidewall of the bracket. By omitting the cover, the electronic device may increase the area of ​​the active area of ​​the display and improve aesthetics by minimizing inactive areas and structures at the periphery of the display.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the foldable display may further include a plurality of layers (e.g., a plurality of layers (310) of FIG. 3) and a cover layer (e.g., a cover layer (301) of FIG. 3) defining an outer surface of the foldable display. The cover layer may have the same outer surface as some of the layers of the plurality of layers.

[0086] In one embodiment, the cover layer may be equal to or wider than a width of each of the plurality of layers.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the foldable display may further include a plurality of layers (e.g., a plurality of layers (310) of FIG. 3) and a cover layer (e.g., a cover layer (301) of FIG. 3) defining an outer surface of the foldable display. Some of the plurality of layers may be arranged to have a boundary that is biased from a side surface of the foldable display toward an interior surface of the foldable display. The remaining layers of the plurality of layers may be aligned with an outer surface of the cover layer.

[0088] In one embodiment, the distance between the side wall and the display may be 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm.

[0089] In one embodiment, the first housing part may omit a cover extending from the side wall to an edge portion of the display. The foldable display may omit a portion protruding from the side wall of the foldable display, including a structure corresponding to the marker.

[0090] According to one embodiment, a corner portion of the foldable display may be rounded. A corner portion of the side wall of the first housing part may be rounded.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the foldable display may include pixels arranged within an active area (e.g., an active area (130a) of FIG. 3) surrounded by an inactive area (e.g., an inactive area (130b) of FIG. 3). The active area at a corner of the foldable display may be rounded.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the marker may be positioned within a specified distance from the intersection of two edges of the active area toward a corner portion of the active area.

[0093] In one embodiment, the bracket may be a first bracket, the side wall may be a first side wall, and the second housing part may include a second bracket (e.g., the second bracket (180) of FIG. 2) that supports the foldable display together with the first bracket and includes a marker. The second housing part may further include a second side wall (e.g., the second side wall (123) of FIG. 3) that is spaced apart from the foldable display and is disposed at an edge of the second bracket. The marker of the second bracket may be disposed between a corner portion of the second side wall and a corner portion of the foldable display adjacent to the corner portion of the second side wall.

[0094] In one embodiment, the marker may be a groove formed from one surface of the bracket or a protrusion protruding from one surface of the bracket.

[0095] In one embodiment, the material of the marker may be different from the material of the portion of the bracket excluding the marker.

[0096] In one embodiment, the color of the marker may be different from the color of a portion of the bracket other than the marker.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device may further include an additional marker disposed between another corner portion of the side wall and another corner portion of the foldable display adjacent to the other corner portion of the side wall.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the foldable display may include a plurality of stacked layers (e.g., a plurality of layers (310) of FIG. 3) and a cover layer (e.g., a cover layer (301) of FIG. 3) disposed on the plurality of layers. The plurality of layers may be covered by the cover layer when the foldable display is viewed from above.

[0099] According to the above-described embodiment, a method for manufacturing a foldable electronic device may include an operation of placing a foldable display (e.g., a display (130) of FIG. 9A) of the foldable electronic device on a first jig (e.g., a first jig (901) of FIG. 9A).

[0100] The method for manufacturing the foldable electronic device may further include an operation of identifying that the foldable display is placed in a designated area on the first jig based on obtaining an image of a corner portion of the foldable display through an optical device (e.g., the optical device (991) of FIG. 9A).

[0101] The method for manufacturing the above foldable electronic device may further include an operation of placing a housing of the foldable electronic device (e.g., the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120) of FIG. 9b) on a second jig (e.g., the second jig (902) of FIG. 9b).

[0102] The method for manufacturing the foldable electronic device may further include an operation of identifying that the housing is placed in a designated area on the second jig based on obtaining an image including a marker located at a corner portion of a bracket of the housing through an optical device (e.g., an optical device (992) of FIG. 9b).

[0103] According to the above-described embodiment, the method for manufacturing an electronic device and the method for inspecting a display and a housing can reduce the attachment tolerance or the assembly tolerance by using the same criteria when attaching the display to the housing and when inspecting after assembly.

[0104] The method for manufacturing the above foldable electronic device may further include an operation of moving the first jig on the second jig so that the foldable display comes into contact with the bracket.

[0105] The method for manufacturing the above foldable electronic device may further include an operation of pressing the first jig and the second jig to press the foldable display onto the bracket.

[0106] The method for manufacturing the above foldable electronic device may further include an operation of acquiring an image of a corner portion of the bracket to which the foldable display is attached, through an optical device (e.g., the optical device (C) of FIG. 9C), in order to identify the corner portion of the foldable display and the marker.

[0107] The method for manufacturing the above foldable electronic device may further include an operation of forming a groove, which is the marker, at a corner of a bracket included in a housing of the above foldable electronic device using a laser.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the method for manufacturing the foldable electronic device may further include an operation of obtaining the foldable display by cutting edge portions of the plurality of stacked layers before placing the foldable display on the first jig.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the method for manufacturing the foldable electronic device may further include an operation of identifying an assembly state of the bracket based on identifying the presence of the marker and an intersection of virtual extension lines of two edges of the active area of ​​the foldable display toward the corner portion within the acquired image.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the method may further include an operation of identifying an assembly state of the foldable display and the bracket based on identifying whether the intersection and the marker are positioned within the field of view range of the optical device.

[0111] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0112] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0113] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an electronic device (1001) within a network environment (1000) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 10, in the network environment (1000), the electronic device (1001) may communicate with the electronic device (1002) via a first network (1098) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (1004) or the server (1008) via a second network (1099) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1001) may communicate with the electronic device (1004) via the server (1008). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1001) may include a processor (1020), a memory (1030), an input module (1050), an audio output module (1055), a display module (1060), an audio module (1070), a sensor module (1076), an interface (1077), a connection terminal (1078), a haptic module (1079), a camera module (1080), a power management module (1088), a battery (1089), a communication module (1090), a subscriber identification module (1096), or an antenna module (1097). In some embodiments, the electronic device (1001) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (1078)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (1076), camera module (1080), or antenna module (1097)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (1060)).

[0114] The processor (1020) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (1040)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (1001) connected to the processor (1020) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1020) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (1076) or a communication module (1090)) in a volatile memory (1032), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (1032), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (1034). According to one embodiment, the processor (1020) may include a main processor (1021) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (1023) (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 (1021). For example, when the electronic device (1001) includes the main processor (1021) and the auxiliary processor (1023), the auxiliary processor (1023) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (1021) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (1023) may be implemented separately from the main processor (1021) or as a part thereof.

[0115] The auxiliary processor (1023) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., the display module (1060), the sensor module (1076), or the communication module (1090)) of the electronic device (1001), for example, on behalf of the main processor (1021) while the main processor (1021) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (1021) while the main processor (1021) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1023) (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 (1080) or a communication module (1090)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1023) (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 (1001) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (1008)). 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.

[0116] The memory (1030) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor (1020) or the sensor module (1076)) of the electronic device (1001). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., the program (1040)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (1030) can include volatile memory (1032) or non-volatile memory (1034).

[0117] The program (1040) may be stored as software in memory (1030) and may include, for example, an operating system (1042), middleware (1044), or an application (1046).

[0118] The input module (1050) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (1001) (e.g., a processor (1020)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1001). The input module (1050) 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).

[0119] The audio output module (1055) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (1001). The audio output module (1055) 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.

[0120] The display module (1060) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1001). The display module (1060) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (1060) 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.

[0121] The audio module (1070) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (1070) can acquire sound through the input module (1050), output sound through the sound output module (1055), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (1001).

[0122] The sensor module (1076) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (1001) 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 (1076) 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.

[0123] The interface (1077) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (1001) to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1002)). In one embodiment, the interface (1077) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0124] The connection terminal (1078) may include a connector through which the electronic device (1001) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1002)). In one embodiment, the connection terminal (1078) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0125] The haptic module (1079) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (1079) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0126] The camera module (1080) can capture still images and videos. In one embodiment, the camera module (1080) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0127] The power management module (1088) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (1001). According to one embodiment, the power management module (1088) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0128] A battery (1089) may power at least one component of the electronic device (1001). In one embodiment, the battery (1089) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0129] The communication module (1090) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (1001) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002), electronic device (1004), or server (1008)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1090) may operate independently from the processor (1020) (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 (1090) may include a wireless communication module (1092) (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 (1094) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with an external electronic device (1004) via a first network (1098) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (1099) (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 may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (1092) may use subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (1096) to verify or authenticate the electronic device (1001) within a communication network such as the first network (1098) or the second network (1099).

[0130] The wireless communication module (1092) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimizing terminal power and connecting multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (1092) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (1092) may 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 (1092) may support various requirements specified in the electronic device (1001), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1004)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (1099)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (1092) 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.

[0131] The antenna module (1097) 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 (1097) 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 (1097) 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 (1098) or the second network (1099), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (1090). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (1090) 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 (1097).

[0132] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (1097) 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.

[0133] 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)).

[0134] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (1001) and an external electronic device (1004) via a server (1008) connected to a second network (1099). Each of the external electronic devices (1002 or 1004) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (1001). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (1001) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (1002, 1004, or 1008). For example, when the electronic device (1001) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (1001) 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 (1001). The electronic device (1001) 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 (1001) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (1004) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (1008) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (1004) or server (1008) may be included within the second network (1099). The electronic device (1001) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart homes, smart cities, smart cars, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0135] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0136] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0137] 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).

[0138] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (1040)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (1036) or an external memory (1038)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (1001)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (1020)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (1001)) 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.

[0139] 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 product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0140] 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 foldable electronic devices, Housing, said housing, A first housing part comprising a bracket including a marker and a side wall disposed on an edge of the bracket, and comprising a second housing part rotatably coupled to the first housing part; and A foldable display is disposed on the bracket of the first housing part and is spaced apart from the side wall of the first housing part, The marker is positioned between a corner portion of the side wall and a corner portion of the foldable display facing the corner portion of the side wall. Foldable electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, The above foldable display, defining a plurality of layers and an outer surface of the foldable display, and further including a cover layer disposed on the plurality of layers; The above cover layer has the same appearance as some layers of the plurality of layers. Foldable electronic devices.

3. In paragraph 2, The area of ​​the above cover layer is The width of each of the above multiple layers is equal to or wider than that of the other, Foldable electronic devices.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above foldable display, Further comprising a cover layer defining the outer surface of the foldable display and a plurality of layers, Some of the above multiple layers, It is arranged so as to have a boundary that is biased from the side of the foldable display toward the inside of the foldable display, The boundaries of the remaining layers among the above multiple layers are, Aligned with the appearance of the above cover layer, Foldable electronic devices.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The distance between the side wall and the foldable display is 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm, Foldable electronic devices.

6. In paragraph 5, The first housing part omits the cover extending from the side wall to the edge portion of the foldable display, The above foldable display omits a portion protruding from one side of the foldable display including a structure corresponding to the marker. Foldable electronic devices.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The corner part of the above foldable display is, Round, The corner portion of the side wall of the first housing part is, rounded, Foldable electronic devices.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above foldable display, Contains pixels located within an active area surrounded by an inactive area, The active area of ​​the corner of the above foldable display is, rounded, Foldable electronic devices.

9. In paragraph 8, The above marker is, located within a specified distance from the intersection of two edges of the active area toward the corner portion of the active area; Foldable electronic devices.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above bracket is a first bracket, and the above side wall is a first side wall, The above second housing part, A second bracket supporting the foldable display together with the first bracket and including a marker; a second side wall spaced apart from the foldable display and positioned at an edge of the second bracket; The marker of the second bracket is positioned between a corner portion of the second side wall and a corner portion of the foldable display adjacent to the corner portion of the second side wall. Foldable electronic devices.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above marker is, Including a groove formed from one side of the bracket or a protrusion protruding from one side of the bracket, Foldable electronic devices.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The material of the above marker is: A material different from that of the part of the bracket except for the marker above, Foldable electronic devices.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The color of the above marker is, Different from the color of the part of the above bracket excluding the above marker, Foldable electronic devices.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, Further comprising an additional marker disposed between another corner portion of said side wall and another corner portion of said foldable display adjacent to said other corner portion of said side wall; Foldable electronic devices.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The above foldable display, It comprises a plurality of stacked layers and a cover layer disposed on the plurality of layers, The above plurality of layers, when looking at the foldable display from above, covered by the above cover layer, Foldable electronic devices.

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