Foldable electronic device including motor and operating method thereof

Abstract

A foldable electronic device according to an embodiment comprises: a first housing including a first motor; a second housing including a second motor; a hinge housing provided between the first housing and the second housing; a flexible display disposed on the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge housing; and a hinge module provided in the hinge housing so as to provide a first rotary shaft configured to receive power from the first motor so that the first housing rotates with respect to the hinge housing, and a second rotary shaft configured to receive power from the second motor so that the second housing rotates with respect to the hinge housing.

Description

Foldable electronic device including a motor and method of operating the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a foldable electronic device including a motor and a method of operating the same.

[0002] The form factors of electronic devices are gradually evolving beyond the uniform rectangular shape and into diverse forms. Electronic devices can have a flexible structure that allows for portability and the use of large-screen displays. For example, a foldable structure can be implemented that folds around a folding axis. An electronic device with a foldable structure can be implemented, for example, by including multiple housings connected by a hinge structure and foldable relative to one another.

[0003] Users can directly unfold or fold the foldable electronic device using a part of their body (e.g., their hands). Meanwhile, when unfolding or folding the foldable electronic device, the flexible display may exert a repulsive force, and this repulsive force may vary in magnitude depending on the folding angle.

[0004] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include a first housing including a first motor and a second housing including a second motor. The foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include a hinge housing provided between the first housing and the second housing, a flexible display disposed on the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge housing, and a hinge module provided on the hinge housing, the hinge module providing a first rotation axis that receives power from the first motor to rotate the first housing relative to the hinge housing, and a second rotation axis that receives power from the second motor to rotate the second housing relative to the hinge housing. The foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include at least one sensor and a processor for determining a folding angle of the foldable electronic device. The processor according to one embodiment may control outputs applied to the first motor and the second motor. The foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include a memory that stores at least one instruction executable by the processor. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may cause the foldable electronic device to rotate the first housing and the second housing by driving the first motor and the second motor based on a first output value in response to detecting a folding command or an unfolding command. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may determine a folding angle of the foldable electronic device from at least one sensor. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may change an output applied to the first motor and the second motor to a second output value corresponding to the folding angle determined from the first output value. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may drive the first motor and the second motor based on the second output value.

[0005] A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of rotating a first housing and a second housing by driving a first motor and a second motor based on a first output value in response to detecting a folding command or an unfolding command. A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of checking a folding angle of the foldable electronic device from at least one sensor. A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of changing an output applied to the first motor and the second motor from the first output value to a second output value corresponding to the checked folding angle. A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of driving the first motor and the second motor based on the second output value.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates a motor and hinge module of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 4 illustrates the operations of the hinge module according to motor rotation, according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates a state of a hinge module when an electronic device according to one embodiment is in an unfolded state.

[0011] FIG. 6 illustrates the state of the hinge module when the electronic device according to one embodiment is in an intermediate state.

[0012] FIG. 7 illustrates a state of a hinge module when an electronic device according to one embodiment is in a folded state.

[0013] FIG. 8 illustrates the direction of the repulsive force by a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 9 illustrates measurements of the repulsive force according to the folding angle of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] Fig. 10 is a flowchart of an operating method of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 11 illustrates threshold values ​​that are set differently for each motor load.

[0017] Figure 12 shows threshold values ​​according to folding angle at different temperatures.

[0018] Figure 13 shows a control block diagram for the motor and motor control unit.

[0019] Figure 14 is a flowchart of an operating method of an electronic device that operates based on motor temperature.

[0020] Figure 15 is a flowchart of an operation method of an electronic device that updates an automatic opening / closing model based on a user's usage pattern.

[0021] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0022] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The advantages and features of the present invention, and methods for achieving them, will become clear with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the attached drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0023] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein may be used in their common sense to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not to be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. In this specification, singular forms also include plural forms, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0024] The terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" as used in the specification do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, steps, operations and / or elements.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a foldable electronic device (100) (hereinafter, electronic device (100)) may include a foldable housing (102) (hereinafter, housing (102)) for accommodating a component of the electronic device (100) (e.g., hinge module (180) of FIG. 3), and a flexible or foldable display (130) (hereinafter, display (130)) disposed within a space formed by the housing (102).

[0027] According to one embodiment, the housing (102) may include a first housing (110) and a second housing (120).

[0028] According to one embodiment, the first housing (110) and / or the second housing (120) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (100). According to one embodiment, the surface on which the display (130) is visually exposed is defined as the front surface (e.g., the first front surface (110a) and the second front surface (120a)) of the electronic device (100) and / or the housing (102). And, the surface opposite to the front surface is defined as the back surface (e.g., the first back surface (110b) and the second back surface (120b)) of the electronic device (100). In addition, the surface surrounding at least a portion of the space between the front surface and the back surface is defined as the side surface (e.g., the first side surface (110c) and the second side surface (120c)) of the electronic device (100).

[0029] According to one embodiment, a key input device (111) for receiving a folding command or an unfolding command from a user may be provided on the side of the electronic device (100). A motor for automatically implementing folding or unfolding may be provided in the foldable electronic device (100) according to the disclosure, and the user may fold or unfold the electronic device (100) by operating the key input device (111).

[0030] According to one embodiment, a first button (112) and / or a second button (113) may be provided on a side of the electronic device (100). For example, the first button (112) may be a power input button. For example, the second button (112) may be a volume control button.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the first housing (110) can rotate with respect to the second housing (120) using a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module (180) of FIG. 3). Accordingly, the electronic device (100) can be changed into a folded state (e.g., FIG. 2) or an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 1). In the folded state, the first front surface (110a) can face the second front surface (120a), and in the unfolded state, the direction in which the first front surface (110a) faces can be the same as the direction in which the second front surface (120a) faces. For example, in the unfolded state, the first front surface (110a) can be positioned on substantially the same plane as the second front surface (120a). In one embodiment, the first housing (110) can provide relative motion to the second housing (120), and the second housing (120) can provide relative motion to the first housing (110). In this case, the relative motion can be implemented through manual operation of the user, or can be implemented by motor power through operation of the user's key input device (111).

[0032] According to one embodiment, the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may be arranged on both sides with respect to the folding axis (A) as the center, and may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis (A). As described below, the angle between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may be changed depending on whether the state of the electronic device (100) is an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state. According to one embodiment, the folding axis (A) may be a virtual axis located between (e.g., in the middle) the first rotation axis (e.g., 1808-1 of FIG. 4) and the second rotation axis (e.g., 1808-2 of FIG. 4). In one embodiment, the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) can rotate about different folding axes with respect to the hinge module (180). For example, the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) can be each rotatably coupled to the hinge module (180) and can rotate about the folding axis (A) or about different folding axes, thereby rotating between a position where they are connected to each other and an inclined position with respect to each other or a position where they are unfolded parallel to each other.

[0033] In the present disclosure, the phrase "positioned parallel to each other" or "extending parallel to each other" may mean a state in which two structures (e.g., housing structures (110, 120)) are at least partially positioned next to each other, or a state in which at least portions positioned next to each other are arranged in parallel. In some embodiments, the phrase "positioned parallel to each other" may mean that two structures are positioned next to each other in a parallel direction or the two structures are arranged so that they face the same direction. Although expressions such as "parallel" and "parallel" may be used in the detailed description below, this can be easily understood according to the shape or arrangement relationship of the structures with reference to the attached drawings, etc.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a hinge housing (140). The hinge housing (140) may be disposed between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). According to one embodiment, the hinge housing (140) may be covered by a portion of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) or may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (100) depending on the state of the electronic device (100). According to one embodiment, the hinge housing (140) may protect a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module (180) of FIG. 3) from an external impact of the electronic device (100). According to one embodiment, the hinge housing (140) may be interpreted as a hinge cover for protecting the hinge module (180).

[0035] According to one embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may vary depending on whether the state of the electronic device (100) is an extended state (flat state, unfolded state) (or opened state), a folded state (or closed state), or an intermediate state.

[0036] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 1, when the electronic device (100) is in an unfolded state, the hinge housing (140) may be covered by the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) and not exposed. As another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, when the electronic device (100) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the hinge housing (140) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). As another example, when the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) are in an intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the hinge housing (140) may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than that in the fully folded state. In one embodiment, the hinge housing (140) may include a curved surface.

[0037] In one embodiment, the display (130) may be a flexible display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. For example, the display (130) may be configured to vary in response to the relative movement of the second housing (120) with respect to the first housing (110). According to one embodiment, the display (130) may include a folding area (133), a first display area (131) disposed on one side (e.g., above (in the +Y direction) of the folding area (133) illustrated in FIG. 1) with respect to the folding area (133), and a second display area (132) disposed on the other side (e.g., below (in the -Y direction) of the folding area (133) illustrated in FIG. 1). According to one embodiment, the folding area (133) may be positioned on a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module (180) illustrated in FIG. 3). According to one embodiment, the first display area (131) may be disposed on the first housing (110), and the second display area (132) may be disposed on the second housing (120). According to one embodiment, the display (130) may be accommodated in the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0038] However, the division of regions of the display (130) illustrated in FIG. 1 is exemplary, and the display (130) may be divided into a plurality of regions (for example, four or more or two) depending on the structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the regions of the display (130) may be divided by a folding region (133) extending parallel to the X-axis or a folding axis (A-axis), but in other embodiments, the display (130) may be divided into regions based on another folding region (for example, a folding region parallel to the Y-axis) or another folding axis (for example, a folding axis parallel to the Y-axis). According to one embodiment, the display (130) may be combined with or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer configured to detect a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a rear display (134). The rear display (134) may be arranged to face a different direction than the display (130). For example, the display (130) may be visually exposed through the front side of the electronic device (100) (e.g., the first front side (110a) and / or the second front side (120a)), and the rear display (134) may be visually exposed through the rear side of the electronic device (100) (e.g., the first rear side (110b)).

[0040] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include at least one camera (104, 106) and a flash (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a front camera (104) exposed through a front side (e.g., a first front side (110a)) and / or a rear camera (106) exposed through a rear side (e.g., a first rear side (110b)). The camera (104, 106) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, a flash, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (108) may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (an infrared camera, a wide-angle lens, and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be arranged on one side of the electronic device (100).

[0041] Hereinafter, the operation of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) and each area of ​​the display (130) according to the operating state (e.g., extended state and folded state) of the electronic device (100) will be described.

[0042] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (100) is in an extended state (e.g., the state of FIG. 1), the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) form an angle of 180 degrees, and the first front surface (110a) and the second front surface (120a) of the display may be arranged to face the same direction, for example, to display the screen in a direction parallel to each other. In addition, the folding region (133) may form the same plane as the first front surface (110a) and the second front surface (120a). In describing various embodiments of the present disclosure, the state of the electronic device (100) being an “extended state” may mean a “fully extended state” in which the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) of the electronic device form an angle of 180 degrees.

[0043] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (100) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may be arranged to face each other. For example, when the electronic device (100) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the first front surface (110a) and the second front surface (120a) of the display (130) may form a narrow angle (e.g., between 0 and 10 degrees) with each other and face each other. When the electronic device (100) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the folding area (133) may form a curved surface having at least a predetermined curvature. The state of the electronic device (100) being a “closed state” may mean a state in which the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) of the electronic device form an angle of 0 degrees or an angle within 10 degrees.

[0044] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (100) is in an intermediate state, the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may be arranged to form a certain angle with respect to each other, for example, a 90 degree or 120 degree angle. For example, in the intermediate state, the first front surface (110a) and the second front surface (120a) of the display (130) may form an angle that is greater than the angle in the folded state and less than the angle in the unfolded state. The folding area (133) may be formed as a curved surface having at least a certain curvature, and the curvature at this time may be less than that in the folded state. The state of the electronic device (100) being an “intermediate state” may mean a state in which the angle formed by the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) in the “open state” is between the angle formed by the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) in the “closed state”.

[0045] Meanwhile, as described in FIGS. 3 and 4 below, an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include motors (1800-1, 1800-2), and the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may automatically rotate about the folding axis (A) or different folding axes depending on the power transmitted from the motors (1800-1, 1800-2). The motors (1800-1, 1800-2) may be provided based on a rack and pinion gear design or a direct drive design within the hinge module (180). A more specific design within the hinge module (180) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4 to 7.

[0046] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a key input device (111) for receiving a folding command or an unfolding command from a user. The key input device (111) according to one embodiment may be provided on either a side of the first housing or a side of the second housing. The electronic device (100) may change the folding state of the electronic device (100) based on the folding command or the unfolding command. For example, when the electronic device (100) is in a folded state, the user may operate the electronic device (100) to enter an extended state or an intermediate state through an input to the key input device (111). Additionally, the user can operate the electronic device (100) to be in a folded state by inputting the key input device (111) when the electronic device (100) is in an extended state or an intermediate state. Additionally, the user can operate the electronic device (100) to be in an intermediate state by inputting the key input device (111) when the electronic device (100) is in an extended state.

[0047] Meanwhile, the user can change the folding state of the electronic device (100) through inputs other than those inputted through the key input device (111). For example, the user can change the folding state of the electronic device (100) through a long click or long touch on the first button (112) provided on the side of the first housing (110).

[0048] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may receive an unfolding command through a gesture input to the external display (rear display, 134) in a folded state. For example, when a user inputs a gesture such as a tap, double tap, swipe, pinch in, or pinch out to the rear display (134), the electronic device (100) may transition from a folded state to an extended state or an intermediate state.

[0049] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a microphone for recognizing a voice from a user. The electronic device (100) may perform voice recognition through the microphone and change the folding state of the electronic device (100) based on the user's voice.

[0050] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a fingerprint sensor (not shown). According to one embodiment, the fingerprint sensor may be provided to overlap a first button (112) provided on a side of the housing (102). In one embodiment, when authentication is completed for a fingerprint recognized by the fingerprint sensor, an unfolding command or a folding command may be generated to change the folding state of the electronic device (100).

[0051] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can change the folding state of the electronic device (100) based on face authentication. The electronic device (100) according to one embodiment can include a front camera (104) exposed through the front (e.g., the first front (110a)) and / or a rear camera (106) exposed through the rear (e.g., the first rear (110b)). For example, when face authentication is completed through the rear camera (106) in the folded state of the electronic device (100), an unfolding command can be generated. For example, when face authentication is completed through the front camera (104) in the extended state or the intermediate state of the electronic device (100), a folding command can be generated.

[0052] FIG. 3 illustrates a motor and hinge module of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0053] According to one embodiment, a hinge module (180) may be connected to a first motor (1800-1) provided in a first housing (110) and a second motor (1800-2) provided in a second housing (120) and may receive power from the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2). The detailed configuration and operation of the hinge module (180) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 to 7. According to one embodiment, the hinge housing (140) may protect the hinge module (180) from external impact of the electronic device (100).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) may include stepper motors. The stepper motor may rotate by a certain angle according to an external signal. When a processor (motor control unit 1320 of FIG. 13) that controls the motor specifies a desired position, the stepper motor may require a pulse signal corresponding to the position. The pulse signal may be generated using the motor control unit 1320, and the motor control unit 1320 may sense a load applied to the stepper motor. The motor control unit 1320 according to one embodiment may supply torque and rotational speed required when using the stepper motor, and voltage and / or current corresponding thereto. For example, the processor (e.g., motor control unit 1320 of FIG. 13) may include a portion that generates a pulse signal and a DRIVER IC that supplies power for driving the motor according to the generated pulse signal. The processor can control the rotation angle of the motor according to the number of generated pulse signals, and can control the rotation speed according to the frequency of the pulse signals. The DRIVER IC can supply a voltage (or current) corresponding to the torque and rotation speed required when driving the step motor. The electronic device (100) according to one embodiment can include at least one sensor for detecting a folding state of the electronic device (100). The electronic device (100) according to one embodiment can detect the folding state of the electronic device (100) through at least one sensor. The at least one sensor can include a hall sensor (202) and / or an inertial sensor (204, 206).

[0055] For example, the Hall sensor (202) may generate data used to calculate the direction in which a force is applied to the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) and / or the angle between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120), or to determine whether the electronic device (100) is opened or closed. According to one embodiment, the Hall sensor (202) may be disposed in the internal space of the first housing (110) or the second housing (120). For example, the Hall sensor (202) may measure the strength of a magnetic field and generate data corresponding to the measured strength of the magnetic field.

[0056] For example, the inertial sensors (204, 206) may generate data used to calculate the direction in which a force is applied to the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) and / or the angle between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120), or to determine whether the electronic device (100) is opened or closed. According to one embodiment, the inertial sensors (204, 206) may include a first inertial sensor (204, e.g., an acceleration sensor and / or a gyro sensor) disposed in the internal space of the first housing (110) to generate data corresponding to the position and / or movement (e.g., angular velocity and / or acceleration of six or nine axes) of the first housing (110), and a second inertial sensor (206) disposed in the internal space of the second housing (120) to generate data corresponding to the position and / or movement of the second housing (120).

[0057] A processor (1720 of FIG. 17) according to one embodiment can calculate a folding angle between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) based on data received from the Hall sensor (202) and / or the inertial sensor (204, 206).

[0058] An electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a magnet (208). The magnet (208) may be provided at one end of the first housing (110) to exert an attractive force on one end of the second housing (120). Unlike the drawing, the magnet (208) may be provided at one end of the second housing (120) to exert an attractive force on one end of the first housing (110). In one embodiment, the magnet (208) may be provided at one end of the first housing (110) or one end of the second housing (120), or may be provided symmetrically with respect to one end of the first housing (110) and one end of the second housing (120). The electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may be more firmly maintained in a folded state by the attractive force generated by the magnet (208).

[0059] FIG. 4 illustrates operations of a hinge module according to motor rotation, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 illustrates a state of a hinge module when an electronic device according to one embodiment is in an unfolded state, FIG. 6 illustrates a state of a hinge module when an electronic device according to one embodiment is in an intermediate state, and FIG. 7 illustrates a state of a hinge module when an electronic device according to one embodiment is in a folded state.

[0060] A hinge module (180) according to one embodiment comprises a motor frame (1802) for fixing a motor (1800-1, 1800-2 of FIG. 3, hereinafter, 1800), a rack (1804) for converting the rotation of the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) into a linear motion, a pinion gear (1806) to which the rotation of the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) is directly transmitted and which is meshed with the rack (1804), a link (1808) for maintaining the mid-plate (1812) at a constant interval and allowing the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) to rotate about different folding axes, a pin (1818) which is a component for connecting the rack (1804) and the link (1808) / the link (1808) and the mid-plate (1812), or a component for fixing the pin (1818). It may include an e-ring (1816). The mid plate (1812) may be covered by a hinge housing (1810).

[0061] According to one embodiment, the first motor (1800-1) provided in the first housing (110) and the second motor (1800-2) provided in the second housing (120) can rotate in different directions to rotate the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) about different folding axes.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the rack (1804) can perform linear movement according to the rotation of the motors (1800-1, 1800-2). The hinge module (180) according to one embodiment basically follows a rack and pinion gear structure, and the rack (1804) meshed with the pinion gear (1806) can perform linear movement according to the rotation of the pinion gear (1806).

[0063] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (100) can be confirmed to move from an extended state (D3) to an intermediate state (D2) to a folded state (D1). With respect to the first housing (110), when changing from D3 to D1, the pinion gear (1806-1) rotates clockwise, thereby pushing the rack (1804-1) toward the hinge housing (1810), and as a reaction, the front is pushed outward from the first housing (110). Accordingly, the link (1808) can rotate about the folding axis. Consequently, the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) can rotate about different folding axes due to the reaction provided by the rack (1804).

[0064] An electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a pinion gear (1806) connected to a motor (1800-1, 1800-2) and a rack (1804) that converts a rotational motion of the pinion gear (1806) into a linear motion. FIG. 5 illustrates an extended state of the electronic device (100), FIG. 6 illustrates an intermediate state of the electronic device (100), and FIG. 7 illustrates a folded state of the electronic device (100).

[0065] FIG. 8 illustrates the direction of the repulsive force by a flexible display according to one embodiment.

[0066] Since a flexible display (e.g., a flexible or foldable display (130) of FIG. 1) has its own elasticity, when it is formed into a flat surface and then curved, a repulsive force may act to restore it to its original flat state. The repulsive force may become stronger or weaker depending on the physical properties of the flexible display (130) or external conditions. When the flexible display (130) is deformed, the repulsive force acts as a kind of resistance, and thus may hinder the smooth folding / unfolding operation of the electronic device (100).

[0067] If the repulsive force is ignored, the electronic device (100) causes the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) to rotate at a constant speed when the motors (1800-1, 1800-2) output a constant torque. However, in reality, since a repulsive force acts on the flexible display (130), the rotation speed of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may increase or decrease at a specific folding angle. If the repulsive force is severe, the folding / unfolding operation may stop or the folding / unfolding operation may be processed instantaneously.

[0068] According to one embodiment, a flexible display (130) may exert a repulsive force in a direction opposite to the rotational direction of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) during a folding operation of the electronic device (100). For example, the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) may act as resistance during the folding operation.

[0069] According to one embodiment, a flexible display (130) may exert a repulsive force in the same direction as the rotational direction of the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) during an unfolding operation of the foldable device. For example, the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) may serve to accelerate rotation during the unfolding operation.

[0070] As described above, the repulsive force varies depending on the physical properties or external conditions of the flexible display (130), and may vary depending on the degree of bending of the flexible display (130) when the physical properties or external conditions are the same. For example, the repulsive force may have different magnitudes depending on the folding angle of the foldable electronic device (100). In this regard, a description will be given with reference to FIG. 9.

[0071] For example, the repulsive force may include the elasticity of the flexible display (130) and the folding resistance due to the joining member included in the hinge module (180).

[0072] FIG. 9 illustrates measurements of the repulsive force according to the folding angle of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 9, the x-axis represents the folding angle of a flexible display (e.g., the flexible or foldable display (130) of FIG. 1), and the y-axis represents the magnitude of the repulsive force acting on the flexible display (130). Roughly speaking, the flexible display (130) forms a flat surface in the unfolded state (180°) and then forms a curved surface in the process of being transformed into the folded state (0°), and the repulsive force that tries to flatten it to its original state gradually increases.

[0074] For example, when an electronic device (100) performs an unfolding operation from a folded state, a large repulsive force is generated, but the repulsive force may weaken as the unfolding operation progresses. In addition, when the device approaches the unfolded state, the repulsive force may be minimized because the flexible display (130) returns to its original state.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may adjust the output value of a motor (e.g., motors 1800-1 and 1800-2 of FIG. 3) that rotates the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) according to the folding angle when performing an unfolding operation. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may drive the motor with a lower torque as the folding angle increases during the unfolding operation. For example, when the motor is sequentially driven according to a first output value and a second output value during the unfolding operation, the second output value may be a value smaller than the first output value.

[0076] For example, when an electronic device (100) performs a folding operation from an unfolded state, a small repulsive force is generated, but as the folding operation progresses, the repulsive force may become stronger. In addition, when the device approaches a folded state, the repulsive force may become maximum because the flexible display (130) has a tendency to recover from a bent state.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can adjust the output value of the motor that rotates the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) according to the folding angle when performing a folding operation. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can drive the motor with a higher torque as the folding angle decreases during the folding operation. For example, when the motor is sequentially driven according to the second output value and the first output value during the folding operation, the first output value may be a value greater than the second output value.

[0078] Meanwhile, the torque required for motor operation can be determined by the force applied to the motor's load and the rotational radius. The rotational radius is the vertical distance from the center of rotation and indicates how far the force is applied from the object's center of rotation. As the rotational radius increases, the magnitude of the torque also increases. This can be expressed mathematically as "T = F * r" (excluding factors such as the coefficient of friction).

[0079] For example, when the flexible display (130) is folded at a folding angle of about 20˚ at room temperature (25°C), assuming that the flexible display repulsive force is about 1.5 N and the distance from the rotation center (rotation axis) of the electronic device (100) to the end of the housing of the rotating electronic device is about 79 mm, the torque of the motor required when only the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) is considered can be estimated to be about 118.5 N mm (1.5 N * 79 mm). When the flexible display (130) is unfolded at a folding angle of about 160˚ at room temperature (25℃), assuming that the flexible display's repulsive force is about 0.7 N and the distance from the center of rotation (rotation axis) of the electronic device to the end of the housing of the rotating electronic device is about 79 mm, the torque of the motor required when only the repulsive force of the display is considered is about 55.3 Nmm. It can be confirmed that as the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) gradually decreases when transformed from a 0˚ (folded state) shape to a 180˚ (unfolded state), the required torque of the motor also gradually decreases.

[0080] It can be confirmed that the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) gradually increases as the temperature gradually decreases, with the repulsive force being approximately 1.0 N when the folding angle is 60° at room temperature (25°C), approximately 1.5 N at 0°C, approximately 1.8 N at -10°C, and approximately 2.2 N at -20°C.

[0081] When the folding angle is 60° at room temperature (25°C), the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) is approximately 1.0 N, and assuming that the distance from the rotation center (rotation axis) of the electronic device to the end of the housing of the rotating electronic device is approximately 79 mm, the torque of the motor required when only the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) is taken into account can be estimated to be approximately 79 N mm. When the folding angle is 60° at 0°C, the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) is approximately 1.5 N, and assuming that the distance from the rotation center (rotation axis) of the electronic device to the end of the housing of the rotating electronic device is approximately 79 mm, the torque of the motor required when only the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) is taken into account can be estimated to be approximately 118.5 N mm. Assuming that the repulsive force acting on the flexible display (130) at a folding angle of 60˚ at -10℃ is about 1.8N and the distance from the rotation center (rotation axis) of the electronic device to the end of the housing of the rotating electronic device is about 79mm, the torque of the motor required when only the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) is taken into account can be estimated to be about 142.2Nmm. Assuming that the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) at a folding angle of 60˚ at -20℃ is about 2.2N and the distance from the rotation center (rotation axis) of the electronic device to the end of the housing of the rotating electronic device is about 79mm, the torque of the motor required when only the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) is taken into account can be estimated to be about 173.8Nmm.

[0082] The expected torque of the motor to change the folding angle of the flexible display (130) to 60˚ is about 79 Nmm at room temperature (25°C), about 118.5 Nmm at 0°C, about 142.2 Nmm at -10°C, and about 173.8 Nmm at -20°C. As the temperature gradually decreases, the torque of the motor is also expected to gradually increase.

[0083] Fig. 10 is a flowchart (1000) of an operating method of an electronic device according to one embodiment. Fig. 11 illustrates threshold values ​​set differently for each motor load, and Fig. 12 illustrates threshold values ​​according to a folding angle at each temperature. The operating method according to Fig. 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 11 and 12.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can control the output (or torque) of the motor (1800 in FIG. 3) to prevent the folding / unfolding operation from being degraded by the repulsive force of the flexible display (130).

[0085] According to one embodiment, in operation 1002, the electronic device (100) may receive a folding command or an unfolding command. For example, the user may input a command for automatic folding or unfolding through the key input device (111). As previously described, the user may change the folding state of the electronic device (100) through inputs in other ways than through inputs through the key input device (111).

[0086] According to one embodiment, in operation 1004, the foldable electronic device (100) may detect an ambient temperature. The electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a temperature sensor (not shown) that detects the ambient temperature. The electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may determine whether to set the output of the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) to a relatively high value or a relatively low value based on the ambient temperature.

[0087] According to one embodiment, in operation 1006, the electronic device (100) may drive the motors (1800-1, 1800-2) in response to a folding command or an unfolding command. For example, the foldable electronic device (100) may control the supply of current and / or current according to a set torque or a set rotational speed to the first motor (1800-1) and / or the second motor (1800-2).

[0088] According to one embodiment, in operation 1008, the foldable electronic device (100) may periodically detect the load applied to the motors (1800-1, 1800-2). The electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may distinguish a plurality of threshold ranges according to the load, set currents (or voltages) corresponding thereto, generate a table, and store the table in a memory (1630 of FIG. 16). The electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a memory (1630 of FIG. 16) in which a table in which currents (or voltages) corresponding to a plurality of threshold ranges according to the load are respectively set is stored.

[0089] In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can determine, in operation 1010, whether the load detected from the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) reaches a value assigned to a table stored in a memory (1630 of FIG. 16).

[0090] In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may periodically detect the load of the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) in operation 1012, and control the output of the motor based on reaching (1010) a threshold value corresponding to the load stage. For example, the foldable electronic device (100) may control the motors (1800-1, 1800-2), respectively. The relationship between the load, the threshold value, and the output value of the motor will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0091] First, in Fig. 11, the x-axis represents the load detected from the motors (1800-1, 1800-2), and the y-axis represents the threshold value (THD) ranging from 0 to 255. Referring to Fig. 11, the table stored in the memory (1630) may include threshold values ​​according to the load size of the motors (1800-1, 1800-2). For example, the threshold values ​​according to the load of the motors (1800-1, 1800-2) may be set from THD 161 to THD 168.

[0092] For example, each threshold value can be distinguished as THD 161 when the load applied to the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) is 30%, THD 162 when it is 40%, THD 163 when it is 50%, THD 164 when it is 55%, THD 165 when it is 60%, THD 166 when it is 70%, THD 167 when it is 80%, and THD 168 when it is 90%. When the electronic device (100) according to one embodiment detects that the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) corresponds to any one of the set threshold values, it can recognize the load of the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) corresponding to the threshold value and control the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) to provide an output value necessary to overcome the load. If the number of threshold values ​​(THD) set based on the load of the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) is too high, the sensor may react sensitively to small changes, which may result in reduced accuracy and a deterioration in the user's perceived quality. Therefore, setting an appropriate number of threshold values ​​(THD) may be necessary.

[0093] In one embodiment, a threshold value (THD) may be set for each folding angle, and when the load of the motor reaches the threshold value at a specific folding angle, the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) may be controlled to provide the output value required to overcome the load. This will be described with reference to FIG. 12.

[0094] First, in Fig. 12, the x-axis represents the folding angle of the foldable electronic device (e.g., 100 in Fig. 1), and the y-axis represents the output of the motor.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can detect the ambient temperature and the load on the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) when it switches from an unfolded state (180˚) to a folded state (0˚) or when it switches from a folded state (0˚) to an unfolded state (180˚). According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can change the motor output to an appropriate value when the threshold value (THD 161, THD 162, THD 163, THD 164, THD 165, THD 166, THD 167, THD 168) corresponding to the ambient temperature and / or the load of the motor is reached.

[0096] For example, in the process of transitioning from the unfolded state (180˚) to the folded state (0˚), the foldable electronic device (100) can detect that the temperature is room temperature (25℃) and start the folding operation by setting the initial output value of the motor to 30% (threshold value: THD 161). The foldable electronic device (100) can distinguish the threshold ranges as THD 161-1 and THD 163-1 at room temperature (25℃). For example, when the load applied to the motor due to the folding operation gradually increases and the threshold value reaches THD 161-1, the output value of the motor can be increased to 50%, and when the threshold value reaches THD 163-1, the output of the motor can be increased to 60%. Thereafter, when the folding angle reaches about 10˚, the output of the motor can be gradually reduced or blocked through a plurality of sensors (e.g., inertial sensors, hall sensors, etc.).

[0097] As another example, when the foldable electronic device (100) is converted from an unfolded state (180˚) to a folded state (0˚) at -20°C instead of room temperature, the folding operation can be started with the initial output value of the motor set to 55% (threshold: THD 164). The foldable electronic device (100) can distinguish threshold ranges of THD 164-1, THD 166-1, and 167-1 at -20°C. For example, when the load applied to the motor due to the folding operation gradually increases and the threshold value reaches THD 164-1, the output value of the motor can be increased to 70%, when the threshold value reaches THD 166-1, the output value of the motor can be increased to 80%, and when the threshold value reaches the THD 167-1 threshold, the output value of the motor can be increased to 90% of the motor output. In one embodiment, the number of threshold values ​​for each temperature can be set differently. For example, as shown in Fig. 12, it can be applied differently, such as at room temperature (25°C, THD 161-1, THD 163-1) and -20°C (THD 164-1, THD 166-1, 167-1).

[0098] A foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment can control the output of a motor whenever a threshold corresponding to a load step is reached (operation 1012).

[0099] In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may determine whether folding or unfolding is completed in operation 1014. If folding or unfolding is not completed, the device may proceed to operation 1016. If folding or unfolding is completed, the foldable electronic device (100) may stop driving the motor in operation 1018. In one embodiment, if operation 1016 is omitted, the device may return to operation 1008 if folding or unfolding is not completed.

[0100] In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can determine whether the number of control operations for motor driving has reached a predetermined number (n) in operation (1016). In one embodiment, if the number of control operations for motor driving has not reached the predetermined number (n), the foldable electronic device (100) can increase the number of motor driving control operations by +1 during the folding or unfolding operation and perform the operation again from operation 1008 until folding or unfolding is completed. If the number of motor driving control operations (the number of times the output value of the motor has changed) satisfies the predetermined number (n), the foldable electronic device (100) can stop the operation of the motors (1800-1, 1800-2) in operation 1018. In this case, damage to the motors (1800-1, 1800-2) can be prevented.

[0101] A foldable electronic device (100 in FIG. 1) according to one embodiment may include a first housing (110) including a first motor (1800-1) and a second housing (120) including a second motor (1800-2). A foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a hinge housing (140) provided between a first housing (110) and a second housing (120), a flexible display (130) disposed on the first housing (110), the second housing (120), and the hinge housing (140), and a hinge module (180) provided on the hinge housing (140) and providing a first rotation axis that receives power from a first motor (1800-1) to rotate the first housing (110) relative to the hinge housing (140) and a second rotation axis that receives power from a second motor to rotate the second housing (120) relative to the hinge housing (140). The foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include at least one sensor and processor (e.g., 1620 of FIG. 16) for checking a folding angle of the foldable electronic device (100). At least one sensor may include a Hall sensor (202) and / or an inertial sensor (204, 206). The processor (1620) according to one embodiment may control outputs applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor. The foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a memory (1630) that stores at least one instruction executable by the processor (1620). The at least one instruction according to one embodiment may cause the foldable electronic device (100) to rotate the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) by driving the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) based on a first output value in response to detecting a folding command or an unfolding command. The at least one instruction according to one embodiment may determine a folding angle of the foldable electronic device (100) from at least one sensor.At least one instruction according to one embodiment may change the output applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) to a second output value corresponding to the folding angle identified from the first output value. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may drive the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) based on the second output value.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can periodically detect the load applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2). According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can change the output applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) when the detected load reaches a threshold value according to the load size. The output values ​​of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) according to the temperature can be referred to FIG. 12.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can periodically detect the load applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2). According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device can change the output applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) when the detected load reaches a threshold corresponding to the folding angle and the ambient temperature.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can count the number of times the output value applied to the motor changes. According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) can stop the operation of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-1) when the counted number reaches a predetermined number. Accordingly, motor damage can be prevented.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may stop driving the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-1) when the folding angle reaches a predetermined angle during the folding operation of the foldable device. For example, the predetermined angle may be 10°. As described above, the foldable electronic device (100) includes a magnet (208, FIG. 3), and when the folded state is approached by the attractive force generated by the magnet (208), the driving force of the motor is not required, so the driving of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-1) may stop.

[0106] Figure 13 shows a control block diagram for the motor and motor control unit.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may have limitations in the internal space due to the mounting of the motors (1800-1, 1800-2). Unlike the case illustrated in FIG. 13, the foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may have each of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) controlled by different motor control units, and as illustrated in FIG. 13, each of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) may be controlled by one motor control unit (1320). For example, considering the mounting space of the foldable electronic device (100), it may be advantageous to control the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) by one motor control unit (1320).

[0108] Meanwhile, the following differences may occur depending on the number of motor control units.

[0109] For example, in the case where there are two motor control units, each motor control unit can supply voltage / current of 20 V / 1.6 A to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2). In the case where there is one motor control unit, the motor control unit (1320) can supply voltage / current of 20 V / 0.8 A, so that the power supplied to each of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) can be less than when there are two motor control units.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 13, when there is one motor control unit (1320), the motor control unit (1320) according to one embodiment can detect both the load applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the load applied to the second motor (1800-2). Therefore, the motor control unit (1320) can set the currents supplied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) to be different from each other in consideration of the loads applied to each of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2). In addition, according to one embodiment, the motor control unit (1320) can set the currents supplied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) to be different from each other in consideration of the weight of the first housing (110) and the weight of the second housing (120). For example, heavier components (e.g., batteries) may be placed in the second housing (120) than in the first housing (110), and therefore, greater motor rotational power may be required in the second housing (120). Accordingly, the motor control unit (1320) according to one embodiment may supply greater current to the second motor (1800-2) than to the first motor (1800-1). For example, if there is one motor control unit (1320) than two, the allowable range of voltage and / or current that can be supplied to the motor is smaller, so if the load of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) increases due to the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) or an external factor (e.g., magnetic force, etc.) and the folding / unfolding operation deteriorates, the motor control unit (1320) can stop the operation of the second motor (1800-2) and add the output of the second motor (1800-2) to the output of the first motor (1800-1). After the first housing (110) moves a predetermined distance relative to the rotation axis, the motor control unit (1320) stops the operation of the first motor (1800-1) and adds the output of the first motor (1800-1) to the output of the second motor (1800-2), so that the second housing (120) can move a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance can be determined, for example, based on the structure of the motor drive unit inside the hinge housing.The foldable electronic device (100) can prevent the folding / unfolding operation from being degraded by the repulsive force of the flexible display (130) or external factors (e.g., magnetic force, etc.) while repeating the above operation.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the motor control unit (1320) may control the output of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) differently. This is because the loads applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) may be different due to the difference in weight between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) of the foldable electronic device (100). The motor control unit (1320) may improve the perceived quality by adjusting the voltage and / or current of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) according to a plurality of load critical ranges, and may reduce power consumption by reducing unnecessary voltage and / or current.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may include a first temperature sensor (1301-1) and a second temperature sensor (1301-2). According to one embodiment, the first temperature sensor (1301-1) may be disposed adjacent to the first motor (1800-1), and the second temperature sensor (1301-2) may be disposed adjacent to the second motor (1800-2). For example, the first temperature sensor (1301-1) and the second temperature sensor (1301-2) may measure the temperatures of the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2), respectively, to determine whether the motors are overheated. According to one embodiment, the motor control unit (1320) can set the current supplied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) based on the motor temperature detected by the first temperature sensor (1301-1) and the second temperature sensor (1301-2). For example, the motor control unit (1320) can set the current supplied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) to be different from each other based on the motor temperature detected by the first temperature sensor (1301-1) and the second temperature sensor (1301-2).

[0113] FIG. 14 is a flowchart (1400) of an operating method of a foldable electronic device (100 in FIG. 1) that operates based on motor temperature.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may control the output (or torque) of the motor (1800 in FIG. 3) to prevent the folding / unfolding operation from being degraded by the repulsive force of the flexible display (130), and may control the output of the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) to prevent the motor from overheating.

[0115] According to one embodiment, in operation 1402, the foldable electronic device (100) may receive a folding command or an unfolding command. For example, a user may input a command for automatic folding or unfolding through a key input device (111 of FIG. 3). As previously described, the user may change the folding state of the foldable electronic device (100) through inputs in other ways in addition to inputs through the key input device (111).

[0116] According to one embodiment, in operation 1404, the foldable electronic device (100) may detect a motor temperature and / or an ambient temperature in response to a folding command or an unfolding command. For example, the foldable electronic device (100) may obtain first temperature information at the time when folding or unfolding begins, and the first temperature information may be compared with second temperature information obtained after folding or unfolding has progressed to a certain degree. For example, the first temperature information may be defined as the motor temperature at the time when folding or unfolding begins, or may be defined as a difference value between the motor temperature and the ambient temperature at the time when folding or unfolding begins.

[0117] According to one embodiment, in operation 1406, the foldable electronic device (100) may drive the motors (1800-1, 1800-2) in response to a folding command or an unfolding command. For example, the processor (1320 of FIG. 13 or 1720 of FIG. 17) may control the supply of current and / or current according to a set torque or a set rotation speed to the first motor (1800-1) and / or the second motor (1800-2).

[0118] According to one embodiment, in operation 1408, the foldable electronic device (100) may detect a motor temperature and / or an ambient temperature during a folding operation or an unfolding operation. For example, the foldable electronic device (100) may acquire second temperature information at a point in time when folding or unfolding starts and a certain period of time has elapsed, and the second temperature information corresponds to a temperature acquired after folding or unfolding has progressed to a certain level. For example, the second temperature information may be information reflecting heat generated by the operation of the motor. The second temperature information may be defined as the motor temperature at a point in time when folding or unfolding starts and a certain period of time has elapsed, or may be defined as a difference value between the motor temperature and the ambient temperature at a point in time when folding or unfolding starts and a certain period of time has elapsed.

[0119] In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (100) may acquire a temperature difference value between the first temperature information and the second temperature information in operation 1410, after acquiring first temperature information and second temperature information. If the output of the motor is increased despite the load applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) being large and overheating, an overload may occur in the motor, which may shorten the lifespan of the motor or cause a malfunction. Therefore, the foldable electronic device (100) in one embodiment may check whether the temperature difference value acquired in operation 1412 is greater than a predetermined temperature difference value. In operation 1414, the foldable electronic device (100) may lower the motor output if the acquired temperature difference value is greater than the predetermined temperature difference value. Therefore, motor overload due to overheating may be prevented.

[0120] In operation 1412, the foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may proceed to operation 1406 if the acquired temperature difference value is not greater than the determined temperature difference value.

[0121] In operation 1416, the foldable electronic device (100) can check whether the number of control operations for motor driving has reached a predetermined number. If the number of control operations for motor driving has not reached the predetermined number, the foldable electronic device (100) can increase the number of control operations for motor driving by +1 and perform operation 1410 again until folding or unfolding is completed during the folding or unfolding operation.

[0122] If the number of motor drive control operations (the number of times the output value of the motor is changed) reaches a predetermined number, the foldable electronic device (100) can stop driving the motor (1800-1, 1800-2) in operation 1418 to prevent damage to the motor (1800-1, 1800-2).

[0123] FIG. 15 is a flowchart (1500) of an operating method of a foldable electronic device that updates an automatic opening / closing model based on a user's usage pattern.

[0124] In operation 1502, a foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may receive user usage pattern data. For example, the user usage pattern data may include a manual opening / closing method in which a user manually operates folding or unfolding, and an automatic opening / closing method in which folding or unfolding is performed via a motor by the user operating a key input device (111), etc.

[0125] In one embodiment, user usage pattern data may be accumulated when the user uses a manual opening / closing method. For example, the foldable electronic device (100) may store the rotation speed when the user folds or unfolds the device. Additionally, the foldable electronic device (100) may remember the final folding angle when the user completes folding or unfolding. For example, the foldable electronic device (100) may learn external factors (e.g., temperature, ambient brightness, etc.) and the user's usage patterns and preferences.

[0126] In operation 1504, the foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may update an automatic opening / closing model based on usage pattern data. For example, the foldable electronic device (100) may continuously learn and update the user's usage patterns and preferences from a large amount of data acquired through a plurality of sensors. The foldable electronic device (100) may be capable of self-predicting and controlling based on the learned patterns, and may continuously update based on new data to improve accuracy. This learning may be performed within the foldable electronic device (100) itself, where artificial intelligence is performed, or may be performed and transmitted to the foldable electronic device through a separate server and / or system.

[0127] In operation 1504, the user pattern data may include information about the application being executed by the user. For example, when the user uses a video playback application, the foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may remember the folding angle at which the video playback application is executed. For example, when the user uses a translation (or interpretation) application, the foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may remember the folding angle frequently used by the user so that the other party can check the translated content through the external display (rear display, 134 of FIG. 1).

[0128] According to one embodiment, when a specific application or a specific function is executed, the foldable electronic device (100) may obtain first information including at least one of load data applied to the motor according to the posture of the foldable electronic device (100), voltage data and / or current data, or internal temperature when driving the motor for folding or unfolding. When the specific application or the specific function is executed again, the foldable electronic device (100) may obtain a previous (past) average value including at least one of load data applied to the motor, voltage data and / or current data, or internal temperature as second information. For example, when a difference between the first information and the second information is lower than a threshold, the foldable electronic device (100) may update the automatic opening / closing model based on the first information.

[0129] In operation 1506, the foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may receive a folding command or an unfolding command.

[0130] When a folding or unfolding command is received, in operation 1508, the foldable electronic device (100) may control the motor based on the updated automatic opening / closing model. For example, the foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may control the torque, rotation speed, or folding angle of the motor in various ways based on the updated model.

[0131] For example, the foldable electronic device (100) can remember the speed at which the user manually performs a folding or unfolding operation, and when the user inputs a folding command or an unfolding command through the key input device (111), the foldable electronic device (100) can control the motor to operate at the remembered speed. As another example, when the user manually performs an unfolding operation, if the unfolding state is not 180 degrees, the foldable electronic device (100) can remember this habit, and when the user inputs an unfolding command through the key input device (111), the foldable electronic device can perform an unfolding operation at the remembered folding angle.

[0132] According to one embodiment, when a user executes a specific application, the foldable electronic device (100) can control a motor so that the specific application is executed at a memorized folding angle. For example, when a user executes a translation application, the foldable electronic device (100) can control a motor in response to the execution of the translation application to change the folding angle to 90 degrees.

[0133] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an electronic device (1601) within a network environment (1600) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 16, in the network environment (1600), the electronic device (1601) may communicate with the electronic device (1602) via a first network (1698) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (1604) or the server (1608) via a second network (1699) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (1601) may communicate with the electronic device (1604) via the server (1608). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1601) may include a processor (1620), a memory (1630), an input module (1650), an audio output module (1655), a display module (1660), an audio module (1670), a sensor module (1676), an interface (1677), a connection terminal (1678), a haptic module (1679), a camera module (1680), a power management module (1688), a battery (1689), a communication module (1690), a subscriber identification module (1696), or an antenna module (1697). In some embodiments, the electronic device (1601) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (1678)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (1676), camera module (1680), or antenna module (1697)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (1660)).

[0134] The processor (1620) may control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (1601) connected to the processor (1620) by executing, for example, software (e.g., a program (1640)), and may perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1620) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (1676) or a communication module (1690)) in a volatile memory (1632), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (1632), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (1634). According to one embodiment, the processor (1620) may include a main processor (1621) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (1623) (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 (1621). For example, when the electronic device (1601) includes the main processor (1621) and the auxiliary processor (1623), the auxiliary processor (1623) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (1621) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (1623) may be implemented separately from the main processor (1621) or as a part thereof.

[0135] The auxiliary processor (1623) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., the display module (1660), the sensor module (1676), or the communication module (1690)) of the electronic device (1601), for example, on behalf of the main processor (1621) while the main processor (1621) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (1621) while the main processor (1621) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1623) (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 (1680) or a communication module (1690)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1623) (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 (1601) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (1608)). 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.

[0136] The memory (1630) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor (1620) or the sensor module (1676)) of the electronic device (1601). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., the program (1640)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (1630) can include volatile memory (1632) or non-volatile memory (1634).

[0137] The program (1640) may be stored as software in memory (1630) and may include, for example, an operating system (1642), middleware (1644), or an application (1646).

[0138] The input module (1650) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (1601) (e.g., a processor (1620)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1601). The input module (1650) 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).

[0139] The audio output module (1655) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (1601). The audio output module (1655) 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.

[0140] The display module (1660) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1601). The display module (1660) 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 (1660) 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.

[0141] The audio module (1670) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa. According to one embodiment, the audio module (1670) can acquire sound through the input module (1650), output sound through the sound output module (1655), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (1601).

[0142] The sensor module (1676) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (1601) 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 (1676) 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.

[0143] The interface (1677) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (1601) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1602)). In one embodiment, the interface (1677) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0144] The connection terminal (1678) may include a connector through which the electronic device (1601) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1602)). In one embodiment, the connection terminal (1678) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0145] The haptic module (1679) 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 (1679) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0146] The camera module (1680) can capture still images and videos. In one embodiment, the camera module (1680) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0147] The power management module (1688) can manage the power supplied to the electronic device (1601). According to one embodiment, the power management module (1688) can be implemented as at least a part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0148] A battery (1689) may power at least one component of the electronic device (1601). In one embodiment, the battery (1689) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0149] The communication module (1690) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (1601) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602), electronic device (1604), or server (1608)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1690) may operate independently from the processor (1620) (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 (1690) may include a wireless communication module (1692) (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 (1694) (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 (1604) via a first network (1698) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (1699) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a local area network or a wide area network)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (1692) may use subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (1696) to identify or authenticate the electronic device (1601) within a communication network such as the first network (1698) or the second network (1699).

[0150] The wireless communication module (1692) 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 communications (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (1692) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (1692) may support various technologies for securing performance in high-frequency bands, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (1692) may support various requirements specified in the electronic device (1601), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1604)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (1699)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (1692) may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB implementation, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC implementation, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC implementation.

[0151] The antenna module (1697) 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 (1697) 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 (1697) 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 (1698) or the second network (1699), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (1690). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (1690) and the 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 (1697).

[0152] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (1697) 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.

[0153] 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)).

[0154] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (1601) and an external electronic device (1604) via a server (1608) connected to a second network (1699). Each of the external electronic devices (1602 or 1604) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (1601). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (1601) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (1602, 1604, or 1608). For example, when the electronic device (1601) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (1601) 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 (1601). The electronic device (1601) 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 (1601) may provide an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (1604) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (1608) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (1604) or server (1608) may be included within the second network (1699). The electronic device (1601) 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.

[0155] A foldable electronic device (100 of FIG. 1) according to one embodiment may include a first housing (110 of FIGS. 1 and 2) including a first motor (1800-1 of FIG. 3) and a second housing (120 of FIGS. 1 and 2) including a second motor (1800-2 of FIG. 3). A foldable electronic device (100 in FIG. 1) according to one embodiment may include a hinge housing (140 in FIG. 3) provided between a first housing (110) and a second housing (120), a flexible display (130 in FIG. 1) disposed on the first housing (110), the second housing (120) and the hinge housing (140), and a hinge module (180 in FIG. 3) provided on the hinge housing (140) and providing a first rotation axis that receives power from a first motor (1800-1) to rotate the first housing (110) relative to the hinge housing (140) and a second rotation axis that receives power from a second motor (1800-2) to rotate the second housing (120) relative to the hinge housing (140). A foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include at least one sensor and a processor (1620 of FIG. 16) for checking a folding angle of the foldable electronic device. The processor (120) according to one embodiment may control outputs applied to a first motor (1800-1) and a second motor (1800-2). A foldable electronic device (100) according to one embodiment may include a memory (1630 of FIG. 16) for storing at least one instruction executable by the processor (1620). The at least one instruction according to one embodiment may cause the foldable electronic device (100) to: rotate the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) by driving the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) based on a first output value in response to detecting a folding command or an unfolding command. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may determine a folding angle of a foldable electronic device from at least one sensor.At least one instruction according to one embodiment may change the output applied to the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) to a second output value corresponding to the folding angle identified from the first output value. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may drive the first motor (1800-1) and the second motor (1800-2) based on the second output value.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (130 of FIG. 1) may exert a repulsive force in a direction opposite to the rotational direction of the first housing and the second housing during a folding operation of the foldable electronic device. According to one embodiment, the flexible display may exert a repulsive force in the same direction as the rotational direction of the first housing and the second housing during an unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the memory may store a table in which threshold values ​​are assigned based on the load size of each of the first motor and the second motor. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may periodically detect the load applied to the first motor and the second motor, and change the output applied to the first motor and the second motor when the detected load reaches the threshold value based on the load size.

[0158] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device may further include a temperature sensor for detecting an ambient temperature of the foldable electronic device. According to one embodiment, a memory may store a table in which threshold values ​​are assigned based on a folding angle and an ambient temperature. According to one embodiment, at least one instruction may periodically detect a load applied to a first motor and a second motor, and change an output applied to the first motor and the second motor when the detected load reaches a threshold value corresponding to the folding angle and the ambient temperature.

[0159] At least one instruction according to one embodiment may count the number of times the applied output of the motor changes, and stop driving of the first motor and the second motor when the counted number reaches a predetermined number.

[0160] According to one embodiment, in an unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device, the second output value may be less than the first output value.

[0161] According to one embodiment, in a folding operation of a foldable electronic device, the second output value may be greater than the first output value.

[0162] At least one instruction according to one embodiment may stop driving of the first motor and the second motor when the folding angle identified in the folding operation of the foldable device reaches a predetermined angle.

[0163] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include a key input device provided on one of a side of the first housing or a side of the second housing for receiving a folding command or an unfolding command from a user.

[0164] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an external display provided in the first housing. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may receive an unfolding command or a folding command based on a user's gesture with respect to the external display.

[0165] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include a microphone for receiving voice input from a user. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may receive an unfolding command or a folding command based on the user's voice.

[0166] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include a fingerprint sensor. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may generate an unfolding command or a folding command when authentication is completed for a fingerprint recognized by the fingerprint sensor.

[0167] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include a rear camera provided in the first housing. At least one instruction according to one embodiment may generate an unfolding command when authentication is completed for a face recognized by the rear camera.

[0168] A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of rotating a first housing and a second housing by driving a first motor and a second motor based on a first output value in response to detecting a folding command or an unfolding command. A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of checking a folding angle of the foldable electronic device from at least one sensor. A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of changing an output applied to the first motor and the second motor from the first output value to a second output value corresponding to the checked folding angle. A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of driving the first motor and the second motor based on the second output value.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device may further include a flexible display disposed on the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge housing. According to one embodiment, the flexible display may exert a repulsive force in a direction opposite to the rotational direction of the first housing and the second housing during a folding operation of the foldable electronic device. According to one embodiment, the flexible display may exert a repulsive force in a direction identical to the rotational direction of the first housing and the second housing during an unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device.

[0170] A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of periodically detecting a load applied to a first motor and a second motor, and an operation of changing an output applied to the first motor and the second motor when the detected load reaches a threshold value according to a load size.

[0171] A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of periodically detecting a load applied to a first motor and a second motor and an ambient temperature, and an operation of changing an output applied to the first motor and the second motor when the detected load reaches a threshold corresponding to a folding angle and the ambient temperature.

[0172] A method of operating a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may further include an operation of counting the number of times an applied output of a motor is changed and an operation of stopping driving of a first motor and a second motor when the counted number reaches a predetermined number.

[0173] According to one embodiment, in an unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device, the second output value may be less than the first output value.

[0174] According to one embodiment, in a folding operation of a foldable electronic device, the second output value may be greater than the first output value.

[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, wearable 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 (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 (1640)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (1636) or an external memory (1638)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (1601)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (1620)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (1601)) 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 a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created 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 foldable electronic devices, 1st housing; Second housing; A hinge housing including a hinge provided between the first housing and the second housing to enable rotation with respect to each other; At least one motor; A flexible display disposed on the hinge housing; At least one sensor for detecting a folding angle between the first housing and the second housing; at least one processor; and A memory storing at least one instruction executable collectively or individually by at least one processor; The at least one instruction causes the foldable electronic device to: When a folding command for the foldable electronic device is detected, the at least one motor is driven and a folding operation is performed to rotate the first housing relative to the second housing using the hinge, While the above folding operation is performed, the folding angle is checked using the at least one sensor, While the above folding operation is performed, an output value adjusted based on the folding angle is applied to at least one motor, A foldable electronic device that terminates the folding operation when the folding angle reaches a predetermined angle.

2. In paragraph 1, As the folding operation progresses, the output value applied to the at least one motor is adjusted based on the magnitude of the repulsive force associated with the foldable electronic device, A foldable electronic device wherein the above repulsive force varies depending on the folding angle.

3. In paragraph 2, The above repulsive force is, Including the elasticity generated in the above flexible display, The above elasticity is, It varies depending on the folding angle or ambient temperature of the above flexible display, The above memory is, A foldable electronic device storing information about elasticity generated in the flexible display and information about repulsive force generated in the foldable electronic device.

4. In paragraph 1, At least one motor above, A foldable electronic device comprising a first motor disposed in the first housing and a second motor disposed in the second housing.

5. In paragraph 1, The above flexible display, In the folding operation of the above foldable electronic device, a repulsive force is applied in the direction opposite to the rotational direction of the first housing and the second housing, A foldable electronic device in which, in an unfolding operation of the above foldable electronic device, a repulsive force is applied in the same direction as the rotational direction of the first housing and the second housing.

6. In paragraph 1, The above memory is, Store a table in which threshold values ​​are assigned according to the load size of each of the first motor and the second motor, At least one of the above instructions, Periodically detecting the load applied to the first motor and the second motor, A foldable electronic device that changes the output applied to the first motor and the second motor when the detected load reaches a threshold value for each load size.

7. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the ambient temperature of the foldable electronic device; The above memory is, Store a table in which threshold values ​​are assigned for the above folding angle and the above ambient temperature, At least one of the above instructions, Periodically detecting the load applied to the first motor and the second motor, A foldable electronic device that changes the output applied to the first motor and the second motor when the detected load reaches a threshold corresponding to the folding angle and the ambient temperature.

8. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above instructions, Counting the number of times the applied output of the above motor changes, A foldable electronic device that stops driving the first motor and the second motor when the counted number reaches a predetermined number.

9. In paragraph 5, A foldable electronic device wherein the second output value is smaller than the first output value in the unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device.

10. In paragraph 5, A foldable electronic device wherein the second output value is greater than the first output value in the folding operation of the foldable electronic device.

11. In paragraph 10, At least one of the above instructions, A foldable electronic device that stops driving the first motor and the second motor when the folding angle confirmed in the folding operation of the foldable electronic device reaches a predetermined angle.

12. In paragraph 1, A foldable electronic device further comprising a key input device provided on one of the side of the first housing or the side of the second housing for receiving an input of the folding command or the unfolding command from a user.

13. In paragraph 1, Further comprising an external display provided in the first housing; At least one of the above instructions, A foldable electronic device that receives an unfolding command or a folding command based on a user's gesture toward the external display.

14. In paragraph 1, further comprising a microphone for receiving voice input from a user; At least one of the above instructions, A foldable electronic device that receives the unfolding command or folding command based on the user's voice.

15. In paragraph 1, Including a fingerprint sensor; At least one of the above instructions, A foldable electronic device that generates the unfolding command or the folding command when authentication is completed for a fingerprint recognized from the fingerprint sensor.

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