Foldable electronic device including magnets

Abstract

This foldable electronic device comprises: a foldable housing including a first housing part and a second housing part; a hinge assembly which rotatably connects the first housing part and the second housing part and includes hinge plates including a first magnet; and a flexible display. The flexible display includes: a display panel including a bending portion configured to be bent by rotation of the first housing part and the second housing part; a support plate disposed under the bending portion of the display panel and including a portion including a plurality of slits; and a second magnet overlapping the bending portion and the portion of the support plate and paired with the first magnet.

Description

Foldable electronic devices containing magnets

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

[0002] An electronic device may include housing parts that are rotatably coupled to each other and a flexible display. At least a portion of the flexible display may be bent depending on the rotation of the housing parts.

[0003] Unlike permanent magnets, electromagnets can be magnetized based on the application of current. In the absence of current, an electromagnet is not magnetized or is magnetized less strongly. Therefore, even if an electromagnet is placed adjacent to one or more permanent magnets, no or reduced attractive force may be generated. When current is applied to an electromagnet, it can induce a stronger attractive force with adjacent magnets.

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

[0005] A foldable electronic device is provided. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing including a first housing part and a second housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly including hinge plates rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part. Each of the hinge plates may include a first magnet. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display. The flexible display may include a display panel including a first planar portion, a second planar portion, and a bending portion positioned between the first planar portion and the second planar portion and configured to bend by rotation of the first housing part and the second housing part. The flexible display may include a support plate disposed under the display panel to support the display panel. The support plate may include a first portion disposed under the first flat portion of the display panel, a second portion disposed under the second flat portion of the display panel, and a third portion disposed under the bending portion of the display panel and including a plurality of slits. The flexible display may include a second magnet overlapping the bending portion and the third portion and paired with the first magnet. An attractive force between the first magnet and the second magnet may be generated based on an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device.

[0006] A foldable electronic device is provided. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing including a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly including first hinge plates rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part. Each of the first hinge plates may include a first magnet. The foldable electronic device may include a second hinge assembly including second hinge plates rotatably connecting the second housing part and the third housing part. Each of the second hinge plates may include a second magnet. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display. The flexible display may include a display panel including a first bending portion configured to bend by rotation of the first housing part and the second housing part, and a second bending portion configured to bend by rotation of the second housing part and the third housing part. The flexible display may include a support plate disposed under the display panel to support the display panel. The support plate may include a first portion disposed under the first bending portion and including a plurality of first slits, and a second portion disposed under the second bending portion and including a plurality of second slits. The flexible display may include a third magnet disposed between the first bending portion and the first portion and overlapping the first magnet. The flexible display may include a fourth magnet disposed between the second bending portion and the second portion and overlapping the second magnet. An attractive force between the first magnet and the third magnet may be generated based on a first unfolded state in which the first housing part and the second housing part are unfolded from each other.The attractive force between the second magnet and the fourth magnet can be caused based on a second unfolded state in which the second housing part and the third housing part are unfolded from each other.

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

[0008] FIG. 2A illustrates an example of an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2b illustrates an example of a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2c is an exploded view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment, taken along line A-A' of FIG. 2a.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating components of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to control the supply of current to an electromagnet.

[0014] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E illustrate arrangement structures of second magnets according to various embodiments.

[0015] Figure 6f is a plan view of the support plate illustrated in Figure 6e.

[0016] FIGS. 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d illustrate arrangement structures of the first magnet according to various embodiments.

[0017] Figure 7e illustrates various shapes of the pattern of the second magnet illustrated in Figure 7d.

[0018] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment including a flexible printed circuit board connected to an electromagnet.

[0019] FIG. 9A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment including a cushion.

[0020] FIG. 9b illustrates a back surface of a flexible display of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment including a cushion.

[0021] Figure 10a illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device.

[0022] Figure 10b illustrates an example of a second state of the electronic device.

[0023] Figure 10c illustrates an example of a third state of the electronic device.

[0024] Figure 11a is a plan view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed.

[0025] Figure 11b is a rear view of the electronic device with the back cover and display removed.

[0026] FIG. 12 illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIGS. 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e, and 13f illustrate arrangement structures of the first magnet according to various embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating components of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to control the supply of current to a first electromagnet.

[0030] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to control the supply of current to a second electromagnet.

[0031] FIGS. 17, 18, and 19 illustrate folding and unfolding operations of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0034] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0035] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0036] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0037] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0038] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0039] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0040] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0041] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0042] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0043] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0044] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0045] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0046] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0047] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0048] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0049] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0050] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0051] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0052] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0053] 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)).

[0054] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0055] FIG. 2A illustrates an example of an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2B illustrates an example of a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2C is an exploded view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 described above may include a foldable electronic device (200). The foldable electronic device (200) may include a foldable housing (201), a flexible display (230) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1, the first display), or one or more cameras (240).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may define the exterior surface of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the foldable housing (201) may be a physical exterior surface of the foldable electronic device (200) that is exposed to the outside and may accommodate components disposed inside the foldable electronic device (200). At least some of the components for implementing the function of the foldable electronic device (200) may be disposed inside the foldable housing (201). According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a hinge assembly (250).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may include a first surface (211), a second surface (212) opposite the first surface (211), and a first side surface (213) (side exterior surface) that at least partially surrounds an edge of the first surface (211) and an edge of the second surface (212). For example, the first surface (211) may be referred to as a front exterior surface of the first housing part (210), and the second surface (212) may be referred to as a rear exterior surface of the first housing part (210). The first side surface (213) may be connected to a periphery of the first surface (211) and an edge of the second surface (212). The first surface (211), the second surface (212), and the first side surface (213) may form an interior space of the first housing part (210). For example, at least one component may be placed within a space surrounded by the first surface (211), the second surface (212), and the first side surface (213).

[0059] For example, the second housing part (220) may include a third face (221), a fourth face (222) opposite the third face (221), and a second side (223) that at least partially surrounds an edge of the third face (221) and an edge of the fourth face (222). For example, the third face (221) may be referred to as a front side of the second housing part (220), and the fourth face (222) may be referred to as a back side of the second housing part (220). The second side (223) may be connected to an edge of the third face (221) and an edge of the fourth face (222). The third face (221), the fourth face (222), and the second side (223) may form an interior space of the second housing part (220). For example, at least one component may be placed within a space surrounded by the third side (221), the fourth side (222), and the second side (223).

[0060] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may be configured to display visual information. For example, the flexible display (230) may include a display area including a plurality of pixels. For example, the active area may be referred to as an active area that displays visual information. For example, the flexible display (230) may define at least a portion of the front surface of the foldable housing (201). For example, the flexible display (230) may at least partially form the first surface (211) and the third surface (221).

[0061] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a first display area (231), a second display area (232), and a third display area (233) disposed between the first display area (231) and the second display area (232). The foldable electronic device (200) may further include a sub-display (235) distinct from the flexible display (230). The sub-display (235) may at least partially form the fourth side (222) of the second housing part (220). The sub-display (235) may be referred to as a cover display or a second display.

[0062] According to one embodiment, one or more cameras (240) may be configured to acquire an image based on receiving light from a subject outside the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the one or more cameras (240) may include first cameras (241), second cameras (242), and / or third cameras (243). For example, the first cameras (241) may be disposed within the first housing part (210). For example, the first housing part (210) may include at least one opening (241a) that overlaps the first cameras (241) when the foldable electronic device (200) is viewed from above. The first cameras (241) may acquire an image based on receiving light from the outside of the foldable electronic device (200) through the at least one opening (241a). The first cameras (241) may face the rear side of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0063] According to one embodiment, the second camera (242) may be disposed within the second housing part (220). The second housing part (220) may include at least one opening (242a) that overlaps the second camera (242) when the foldable electronic device (200) is viewed from above. The second camera (242) may acquire an image based on receiving light from the outside of the foldable electronic device (200) through the at least one opening (242a). The second camera (242) may face the rear side of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0064] According to one embodiment, the third camera (243) may be positioned within the first housing part (210). For example, the first display area (231) of the flexible display (230) may include at least one opening that overlaps the third camera (243) when the flexible display (230) is viewed from above. The third camera (243) may acquire an image based on receiving light from the outside of the flexible display (230) through the at least one opening. The third camera (243) may face the front side of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) may be positioned below (e.g., in the -z direction) the flexible display (230) or the sub-display (235). For example, the second camera (242) and / or the third camera (243) may include an under-display camera (UDC) and / or a punch-hole camera.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be rotatably coupled. For example, the second housing part (220) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing part (210) via a hinge assembly (250).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) can rotatably connect the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The hinge assembly (250) can be disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) of the foldable electronic device (200) so that the foldable electronic device (200) can be folded. The hinge assembly (250) can change the foldable electronic device (200) from an unfolded state to a folded state. The hinge assembly (250) can change the foldable electronic device (200) from a folded state to an unfolded state. For example, the hinge assembly (250) can maintain the foldable electronic device (200) in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the unfolded state may be referred to as a state in which the first direction toward which the first display area (231) faces and the second direction toward which the second display area (232) faces are substantially the same. The folded state may be referred to as a state in which the first direction is substantially opposite to the second direction. When the foldable electronic device (200) is in the folded state, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be covered or overlapped.

[0069] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state and an intermediate state, the first direction and the second direction may be different from each other. For example, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first direction and the second direction may be opposite to each other. For example, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an intermediate state, the first direction may form an angle (e.g., an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees) with respect to the second direction.

[0070] For example, the foldable electronic device (200) may include at least one conductive portion (214a, 224a) and at least one non-conductive portion (214b, 224b) included within the first side (213) and / or the third side (223). For example, the at least one conductive portion (214a, 224a) may be separated from other conductive portions within the first side (213) and / or the third side (223) by being in contact with the at least one non-conductive portion (214b, 224b). In one embodiment, the at least one conductive portion (214a, 224a) may operate as an antenna radiator to be used for communication with an external electronic device.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 2C, the hinge assembly (250) may include a hinge cover (251), a first hinge plate (252), a second hinge plate (253), and a plurality of hinge modules (254). The hinge cover (251) may at least partially surround the components of the hinge assembly (250) and form an outer surface of the hinge assembly (250). The hinge cover (251) may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (200) through a space between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state. When the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (251) may be covered by the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) and may not be exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0072] In one embodiment, the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) are operatively coupled to the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), respectively, thereby rotatably connecting the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). For example, the first hinge plate (252) may be operatively coupled to the first bracket (215) of the first housing part (210), and the second hinge plate (253) may be operatively coupled to the second bracket (227) of the second housing part (220). As the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) are operatively coupled to the first bracket (215) and the second bracket (227), respectively, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) can be rotated according to the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the plurality of hinge modules (254) can rotate the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253). For example, the plurality of hinge modules (254) can include gears that are interlocked with each other and can rotate. The first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) can rotate based on the rotational motion of the gears of the plurality of hinge modules (254).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may include a first bracket (215) and a rear cover (216). The first bracket (215) may be disposed inside the first housing part (210) and may support at least one component disposed inside the first housing part (210). The rear cover (216) may at least partially form the second surface (212) of the first housing part (210). For example, the second housing part (220) may include a second bracket (227). The second bracket (227) may be disposed inside the second housing part (220) and may support at least one component disposed inside the second housing part (220). For example, the sub-display (235) may be disposed below (e.g., in the -z direction) the second bracket (227).

[0075] A foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include, in addition to the one or more cameras (240) described above, a plurality of electronic components for implementing various functions. For example, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first printed circuit board (261), a second printed circuit board (262), a flexible printed circuit board (263), and / or a battery (189). The electronic components described above are merely exemplary and are not limited thereto.

[0076] For example, the first printed circuit board (261) and the second printed circuit board (262) may each provide electrical connections between components within the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the first printed circuit board (261) may be disposed within the first housing part (210), and the second printed circuit board (262) may be disposed within the second housing part (220). The first printed circuit board (261) may provide electrical connections between electronic components disposed within the first housing part (210). The second printed circuit board (262) may provide electrical connections between electronic components disposed within the second housing part (220). The flexible printed circuit board (263) may electrically connect the first printed circuit board (261) and the second printed circuit board (262). For example, a flexible printed circuit board (263) may extend from a first printed circuit board (261) across the hinge assembly (250) to a second printed circuit board (262). For example, the flexible printed circuit board (263) may at least partially overlap the hinge assembly (250).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the battery (189) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the foldable electronic device (200), and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery and / or a rechargeable secondary battery.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a plurality of antennas (ANT1, ANT2, ANT3, or ANT4) to be used for communication with an external electronic device. For example, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a main antenna (ANT1), a sub antenna (ANT2), an ultra-wide band (UWB) antenna (ANT3), and / or an antenna for short-range wireless communication (ANT4). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0079] Hereinafter, one or more components to be described with reference to the drawings may be implemented together with the components of the foldable electronic device (200) described with reference to FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 2c. The same reference numerals are assigned to the same components as those described above, and any redundant descriptions may be omitted.

[0080] In this disclosure, relative terms such as "above" and "below" may be used to describe relative positions between components. For example, if the foldable electronic device (200) illustrated in the drawing is flipped over, "above" and "below" may be interchanged.

[0081] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 3, a foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a foldable housing (201), a hinge assembly (250), a flexible display (230), a first magnet (330), and a second magnet (340). The components described with reference to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C may be substantially the same as the components described below, and overlapping descriptions may be omitted or briefly described. The same reference numerals may be assigned to the same components as the components described above.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may include a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). A hinge assembly (250) may rotatably connect the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). For example, the first housing part (210) may be coupled with a first hinge plate (252), and the second housing part (220) may be coupled with a second hinge plate (253).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a display panel (310) and a support plate (320).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the display panel (310) may include a plurality of pixels for providing visual information. The display panel (310) may be electrically connected to a display driving circuit. The display driving circuit may be configured to display visual information through the display panel (310) by controlling a plurality of pixels disposed within the display panel (310). A window (e.g., cover glass) (301) for protecting the display panel (310) may be disposed on the display panel (310). The window (301) may be attached to the front surface of the display panel (310) via adhesive layers (302).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the display panel (310) may include a first planar portion (311), a second planar portion (312), and a bending portion (313). The first planar portion (311) may be supported by the first housing part (210). The second planar portion (312) may be supported by the second housing part (220). The bending portion (313) may be positioned between the first planar portion (311) and the second planar portion (312).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the support plate (320) may be disposed below (e.g., in the -z direction) the display panel (310) to support the display panel (310). The support plate (320) may provide rigidity to the flexible display (230) by supporting the display panel (310). According to one embodiment, the support plate (320) may include a first portion (321) disposed below a first planar portion (311) of the display panel (310), a second portion (322) disposed below a second planar portion (312), and a third portion (323) disposed below a bending portion (313) of the display panel (310). The third portion (323) may be disposed between the first portion (321) and the second portion (322).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the third portion (323) may include a plurality of slits (324) so ​​as to be bendable together with the bending portion (313). For example, when the display panel (310) is bent and a tensile force is applied to the plurality of slits (324), the plurality of slits (324) may be deformed in response to the tensile force. By the deformation of the plurality of slits (324), the third portion (323) of the support plate (320) may be bent together with the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310). The plurality of slits (324) may be referred to as a lattice pattern or lattice structure in terms of forming a lattice within the third portion (323).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310) may be configured to bend by the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are disposed on substantially the same plane, the bending portion (313) may be substantially flat. As the foldable electronic device (200) changes from the unfolded state to the folded state, the bending portion (313) may be at least partially bent. As the bending portion (313) is at least partially bent, stress may be applied to the bending portion (313). The stress may cause a crease in the bending portion (313). If a crease occurs within the bending portion (313), the crease may be visible to the user within the unfolded state of the flexible display (230), which may affect the visibility of the flexible display (230) and degrade the user experience.

[0090] A foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a first magnet (330) disposed within hinge plates (252, 253) of a hinge assembly (250) and a second magnet (340) disposed within a flexible display (230) to reduce creases occurring within a bending portion (313). The first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) may be paired with each other. The first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) may be a film formed of a magnetic material or a film to which magnetic powder is added, but are not limited thereto.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a protective film (303) for protecting the display panel (310). The second magnet (340) may be disposed between the protective film (303) and the third portion (323) of the support plate (320). For example, the second magnet (340) may be disposed below the protective film (303) (e.g., in the -z direction) and above the third portion (323) (e.g., in the +z direction). As the second magnet (340) is disposed above the third portion (323), the second magnet (340) may be bent together with the bending portion (313) when the bending portion (313) is bent. The second magnet (340) may be flexible. A cushion (305) may be placed below the third portion (323) of the support plate (320) to alleviate the impact applied to the bending portion (313). The cushion (305) may overlap the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340). The cushion (305) may be formed of a substantially opaque material. Since the cushion (305) is formed of a substantially opaque material, the second magnet (340) may not be visible from the outside. When the second magnet (340) is placed between the protective film (303) and the third portion (323), the adhesive layer (304) may be placed on substantially the same plane as the second magnet (340) to compensate for the step caused by the thickness of the second magnet (340) (e.g., the second thickness). The adhesive layer (304) may be disposed between the protective film (303) and the first portion (321) of the support plate (320) and between the protective film (303) and the second portion (322) of the support plate (320). The first thickness of the adhesive layer (304) may correspond to the second thickness of the second magnet (340). As the first thickness corresponds to the second thickness, a step difference caused by the second magnet (340) may be compensated for.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) may be arranged to overlap each other within the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200). Within the unfolded state, an attractive force may be applied between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340), and the crease may be alleviated or eliminated by the attractive force. For example, the bending portion (313) may be pulled downward (e.g., in the -z direction) by the attractive force, thereby unfolding the portion where the crease has occurred or reducing the crease. According to one embodiment, at least one of the first magnet (330) or the second magnet (340) may correspond to an electromagnet (e.g., an electromagnet (440) of FIG. 4). An electromagnet may be magnetized only when a current is applied. An electromagnet may be distinguished from a permanent magnet, which always forms a magnetic field. For example, if the first magnet (330) corresponds to an electromagnet, the second magnet (340) may correspond to a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. Conversely, if the second magnet (340) corresponds to an electromagnet, the first magnet (330) may correspond to a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. According to one embodiment, the electromagnet can alleviate or eliminate the crease of the bending portion (313) by being magnetized only within the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200). The force between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) to alleviate or eliminate the crease has been described as an attractive force, but the force may also be a repulsive force. As the electromagnet is magnetized, a repulsive force can be applied between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340), and by the repulsive force, the crease of the bending portion (313) can be reduced, alleviated, or eliminated.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the hinge plates (252, 253) of the hinge assembly (250) may include a first magnet (330). For example, the first magnet (330) may form a portion of the hinge plate, but is not limited thereto. Various examples of the first magnet (330) will be described below with reference to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, and 6F. According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may include a support bar (255) for supporting a portion of the bending portion (313). The first magnet (330) may be included in the support bar (255) as well as the hinge plates (252, 253), or may be disposed on the support bar (255).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a second magnet (340) paired with a first magnet (330). The second magnet (340) may overlap a third portion (323) including a plurality of slits (324). The overlapping of the second magnet (340) with the third portion (323) may include a structure in which the second magnet (340) is disposed above the third portion (323), a structure in which the second magnet (340) is disposed below the third portion (323), or a structure in which the second magnet (340) is disposed within the third portion (323). Various examples of arrangement structures of the second magnet (340) will be described below with reference to FIGS. 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may be configured to supply current to the electromagnet based on identifying the unfolded state. For example, if the first magnet (330) corresponds to an electromagnet and the second magnet (340) corresponds to a permanent magnet, when current is supplied to the first magnet (330), the first magnet (330) may be magnetized and thus may have magnetism. An attractive force may be induced between the magnetized first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340), which corresponds to a permanent magnet. The attractive force may alleviate or eliminate a crease induced in the bending portion (313) by pulling the bending portion (313) flat. The foldable electronic device (200) may be configured to stop supplying current to the electromagnet based on identifying the folded state. When the current supply is cut off, the magnetism of the electromagnet disappears, so the attractive force can be eliminated. If the attractive force is generated even when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state, damage to the flexible display (230) due to the attractive force may occur. To prevent or reduce the damage, the foldable electronic device (200) can cut off the current supply to the electromagnet based on identifying the folded state or intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0096] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating components of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 4, a foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a sensor (410), a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1), at least one processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1), a battery (e.g., the battery (189) of FIG. 1), a power management circuit (420), a driver integrated circuit (430), and an electromagnet (440). As described above, the electromagnet (440) may be at least one of the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340). For example, the first magnet (330) may correspond to the electromagnet (440), the second magnet (340) may correspond to the electromagnet (440), or both the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) may correspond to the electromagnet (440).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the sensor (410) may be used to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the sensor (410) may be configured to provide data representing angle information between a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 3) and a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 3) to at least one processor (120). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (200) (e.g., an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state) based on the data received from the sensor (410). For example, the sensor (410) may include, but is not limited to, a Hall sensor.

[0099] Any function or operation described herein may be processed by at least one processor (120). According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may include a processing circuit. At least one processor (120) may include, but is not limited to, an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)) and / or a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem). At least one processor (120) may include a graphics processing unit (e.g., a GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth chip®, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display drive integrated circuit (DDI), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an integrated circuit (IC), or a similar circuit.

[0100] According to one embodiment, when the sensor (410) transmits data representing angle information between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) to at least one processor (120), the at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (200) based on the data. For example, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) when the angle between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) identified from the data is within a first angle range (e.g., about 175 degrees to about 185 degrees). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200) when an angle between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) identified from the data falls within a second angular range (e.g., from about 5 degrees to about 175 degrees). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) when an angle between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) identified from the data falls within a third angular range (e.g., from about 0 degrees to about 5 degrees). The numerical values ​​of the above-described angular ranges are merely exemplary, and embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the memory (130) may include one or more storage media for storing instructions. Each of the flow charts described below may be performed by executing computer-executable instructions by at least one processor (120).

[0102] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the operation of the foldable electronic device (200). Any function or operation described in the present disclosure may be processed by one processor or a combination of processors. One processor or a combination of processors may include, as a circuit that performs processing, an application processor (AP, eg, a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, eg, a modem), a graphics processing unit (eg, a GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (eg, an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth™ chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor (410) controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display drive integrated circuit (DDI), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an IC, or a similar circuit.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may be configured to provide power for the operation of electronic components of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the battery (189) may include a rechargeable secondary battery.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the power management circuit (420) (PMIC, power management integrated circuitry) may be configured to control charging and discharging of the battery (189). For example, the power management circuit (420) may be configured to charge the battery (189) using power supplied from an external power source. The power management circuit (420) may select a charging method (e.g., normal charging or rapid charging) based on at least some of the type of the external power source (e.g., power adapter, USB, or wireless charging), the amount of power that can be supplied from the external power source (e.g., about 20 watts or more), or the properties of the battery (189), and may charge the battery (189) using the selected charging method. For example, the external power source may be wiredly connected to the foldable electronic device (200) through a connection terminal (e.g., the connection terminal of FIG. 1), or wirelessly connected through an antenna module. The power management circuit (420) can generate a plurality of powers having different voltages or current levels by adjusting the voltage level or current level of the power supplied from the battery (189). The power management circuit (420) can adjust the power of the battery (189) to a voltage or current level suitable for each of the components included in the foldable electronic device (200). The power management circuit (420) can measure usage status information for the battery (189) (e.g., capacity, number of charge / discharge cycles, voltage, or temperature of the battery (189).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the driver integrated circuit (430) may be electrically connected to an electromagnet (440). The driver integrated circuit (430) may be configured to supply current provided from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) via the power management circuit (420). For example, a switch circuit (450) may be disposed between the driver integrated circuit (430) and the electromagnet (440), and whether or not to supply current to the electromagnet (440) may be determined based on the state of the switch circuit (450). For example, when the switch circuit (450) is in a closed state, the driver integrated circuit (430) and the electromagnet (440) are electrically connected, so that current may be supplied to the electromagnet (440) via the driver integrated circuit (430). For example, when the switch circuit (450) is in an open state, the driver integrated circuit (430) and the electromagnet (440) are electrically disconnected, so that current may not be supplied to the electromagnet (440).

[0106] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (200) through the sensor (410) and, based on the identified state of the foldable electronic device (200), control whether to supply current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control whether to supply current to the electromagnet (440) by controlling the driver integrated circuit (430).

[0107] Below, the operation of controlling the supply of current to the electromagnet (440) by at least one processor (120) is described.

[0108] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to control the supply of current to an electromagnet.

[0109] The operations of FIG. 5 may be referred to as operations caused by a foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (200) of FIG. 3) when instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 4) are executed by at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor (120) of FIG. 4).

[0110] Referring to FIG. 5, in operation 501, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (200) through a sensor (e.g., sensor (410) of FIG. 4).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the sensor (410) may be configured to provide data indicating a state of the foldable electronic device (200) to at least one processor (120). For example, the at least one processor (120) may provide data indicating angle information between a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 3) and a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 3) to the at least one processor (120). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to receive the data from the sensor (410) and identify a state of the foldable electronic device (200) based on the data. For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) when an angle between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) identified from the data falls within a first angular range (e.g., from about 175 degrees to about 185 degrees). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200) when an angle between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) identified from the data falls within a second angular range (e.g., from about 5 degrees to about 175 degrees). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) when an angle between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) identified from the data falls within a third angle range (e.g., from about 0 degrees to about 5 degrees).

[0112] In operation 503, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to determine whether the foldable electronic device (200) has identified an unfolded state.

[0113] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may be configured to determine whether the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) has been identified in order to determine whether a condition for supplying current to an electromagnet (e.g., an electromagnet (440) of FIG. 4) is satisfied. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (200) is the unfolded state, operation 505 may be performed. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (200) is not the unfolded state, operation 507 may be performed. Here, if the state of the foldable electronic device (200) is not the unfolded state, it may be referred to as a case where a folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) or an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200) has been identified.

[0114] At operation 505, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control a driver integrated circuit (e.g., the driver integrated circuit (430) of FIG. 4) to provide current from a battery (e.g., the battery (189) of FIG. 4) to an electromagnet (440) based on identifying an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0115] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may magnetize the electromagnet (440) based on identifying the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to supply current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) for magnetizing the electromagnet (440). For example, the driver integrated circuit (430) may be controlled by the at least one processor (120) to supply current supplied from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) via the power management circuit (420). For example, the driver integrated circuit (430) can electrically connect the driver integrated circuit (430) and the electromagnet (440) by controlling a switch circuit (e.g., the switch circuit (450) of FIG. 4), and current can be provided from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) through the power management circuit (420), the driver integrated circuit (430), and the switch circuit (450).

[0116] According to one embodiment, as current is supplied to the electromagnet (440), the electromagnet (440) may be magnetized. When the electromagnet (440) is magnetized, an attractive force may be induced between a first magnet (e.g., the first magnet (330) of FIG. 3) and a second magnet (e.g., the second magnet (340) of FIG. 3). For example, when the first magnet (330) corresponds to the electromagnet (440) and the second magnet (340) corresponds to a permanent magnet, as the first magnet (330), which is the electromagnet (440), is magnetized, an attractive force may be induced between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200), the bending portion (313) may be substantially flat. The above-described force can relieve or eliminate the crease by pulling the bending portion (e.g., the bending portion (313) of FIG. 3) of a substantially flat display panel (e.g., the display panel (310) of FIG. 3).

[0117] At operation 507, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to prevent current from being provided from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) based on identifying a folded state or an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0118] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may not magnetize the electromagnet (440) based on identifying a folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) or an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200) that is different from an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to not provide current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) (or to refrain from providing current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440)) so as not to magnetize the electromagnet (440). For example, the driver integrated circuit (430) may be controlled by the at least one processor (120) to not provide current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) via the power management circuit (420). For example, the driver integrated circuit (430) can control the switch circuit (450) to electrically disconnect the driver integrated circuit (430) and the electromagnet (440). As the driver integrated circuit (430) and the electromagnet (440) are electrically disconnected, current cannot be supplied from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440), and thus the electromagnet (440) may not be magnetized.

[0119] According to one embodiment, since no current is supplied to the electromagnet (440), the electromagnet (440) cannot be magnetized. If the electromagnet (440) is not magnetized, an attractive force between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) may not be induced. For example, if the first magnet (330) corresponds to the electromagnet (440) and the second magnet (340) corresponds to a permanent magnet, since the first magnet (330), which is the electromagnet (440), is not magnetized, an attractive force between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) may not be induced. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) or an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200), the bending portion (313) may be at least partially bent. If a force is generated while the bending portion (313) is at least partially bent, damage to the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (230) of FIG. 3) may occur. In order to prevent or reduce damage to the flexible display (230), the foldable electronic device (200) may not provide current to the electromagnet (440) while in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) or in an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0120] After operation 505, operation 509 may be performed. In operation 509, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to determine whether the foldable electronic device (200) has identified a folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) or an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (200) is the folded state or the intermediate state, operation 507 may be performed. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (200) is not the folded state or the intermediate state, operation 505 may be performed again. Here, whether the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) or the intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200) has been identified may be referred to as a case where the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) has not been identified.

[0121] According to one embodiment, when the state of the foldable electronic device (200) is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state or an intermediate state, operation 507 may be performed. In operation 507, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (430) so that current is not provided from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440). Since the state of the foldable electronic device (200) is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state or an intermediate state, the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310) may be at least partially bent. In this case, at least one processor (120) may be configured to demagnetize the electromagnet (440) to prevent or reduce damage to the flexible display (230).

[0122] According to one embodiment, when the state of the foldable electronic device (200) is maintained in the unfolded state, operation 505 may be performed. In operation 505, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to provide current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440). Since the state of the foldable electronic device (200) is maintained in the unfolded state, the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310) may be substantially flat. In this case, at least one processor (120) may be configured to maintain the magnetization of the electromagnet (440) to reduce and / or eliminate the crease of the bending portion (313).

[0123] As described above, the foldable electronic device (200) may be configured to induce an attractive force between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) based on the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in the unfolded state, an attractive force may be induced between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340). In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200), the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310) may be substantially flat without being bent. As the substantially flat bending portion (313) is pulled by the attractive force between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340), the crease may be eliminated. According to one embodiment, the quality of visual information displayed through the flexible display (230) can be enhanced by alleviating and / or eliminating the crease within the bending portion (313).

[0124] Figures 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, and 6e illustrate arrangement structures of the second magnet according to various embodiments. Figure 6f is a plan view of the support plate illustrated in Figure 6e.

[0125] The second magnet (340) illustrated in FIG. 3 may be positioned between the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310) and the third portion (323) of the support plate (320), as described above, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 6A, the second magnet (340) may be disposed within the protective film (303) disposed below the display panel (310) (e.g., in the -z direction). For example, the second magnet (340) may be disposed within a portion of the entire area of ​​the protective film (303) that is in contact with the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310). Since the portion of the protective film (303) that is in contact with the bending portion (313) overlaps with the third portion (323) of the support plate (320), the second magnet (340) may overlap with the third portion (323). For example, by forming the portion of the protective film (303) that is in contact with the bending portion (313) with magnetic materials, the second magnet (340) may be disposed within the protective film (303).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 6B, the second magnet (340) may be positioned under the third portion (323) of the support plate (320). For example, the second magnet (340) may form at least a portion of a cushion (305) for alleviating impact applied to the bending portion (313) under the third portion (323) of the support plate (320). In this case, the second magnet (340) may include an elastic material so as to alleviate impact applied to the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 6C, the second magnet (340) may be disposed within the third portion (323) of the support plate (320). For example, the second magnet (340) may form at least a portion of the third portion (323) including a plurality of slits (324). The plurality of slits (324) may be formed by perforating a portion of the third portion (323) through laser processing. For example, by forming the third portion (323) with a magnetic material, the support plate (320) including the second magnet (340) may be manufactured. To form the plurality of slits (324), a portion of the third portion (323) may be perforated through laser processing, thereby forming the plurality of slits (324). The plurality of slits (324) may penetrate the second magnet (340). The second magnet (340) may form at least a portion of the area of ​​the third portion (323) excluding the plurality of slits (324). Since the third portion (323) bends together with the bending portion (313) when the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310) is bent, the second magnet (340) may have flexibility so as to be bent together with the bending portion (313).

[0129] Referring to FIG. 6D, the support plate (320) may include a first layer (610) and a second layer (620) that are stacked on each other. For example, the second layer (620) may be stacked on top of the first layer (610) (e.g., in the +z direction). The second magnet (340) may be positioned within the first layer (610). For example, the second magnet (340) may form at least a portion of the first layer (610). For example, the support plate (320) may be manufactured by stacking the first layer (610) and the second layer (620) before the formation of the plurality of slits (324). After the first layer (610) and the second layer (620) are laminated, a plurality of slits (324) may be formed by perforating a portion of the third portion (323) through laser processing to form a plurality of slits (324). The plurality of slits (324) may penetrate the first layer (610) and the second layer (620).

[0130] Referring to FIG. 6E, the second magnet (340) may be disposed within the third portion (323). For example, the third portion (323) may include openings forming a plurality of slits (324) and portions filled with a magnetic material forming the second magnet (340). Referring to FIG. 6F, the portions filled with the magnetic material may be disposed to bypass the plurality of slits (324). In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 6E and 6F, a portion of the third portion (323) may be the second magnet (340) disposed to bypass the plurality of slits (324), and another portion of the third portion (323) may not include a magnetic material. In addition, various embodiments regarding the arrangement structure of the second magnet (340) may be possible.

[0131] Figures 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d illustrate arrangement structures of the first magnet according to various embodiments. Figure 7e illustrates various shapes of the pattern of the second magnet illustrated in Figure 7d.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may include a support bar (255) disposed between the hinge plates (252, 253). For example, the support bar (255) may be disposed between the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253). The support bar (255) disposed between the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) may be configured to support a portion of a bending portion (e.g., a bending portion (313) of FIG. 3) of a display panel (e.g., a display panel (310) of FIG. 3). As described above, the hinge plates (252, 253) and the support bar (255) may include a first magnet (330).

[0133] Referring to FIG. 7A, the first magnet (330) may be placed on the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the support bar (255). For example, the first magnet (330) may be a magnetic film or sheet. The first magnet (330) may be formed by attaching the magnetic film or sheet to the upper surface of each of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the upper surface of the support bar (255).

[0134] Referring to FIG. 7B, the first magnet (330) may be included in a pattern form within the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the support bar (255). For example, when manufacturing the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the support bar (255), the first magnet (330) may be formed by magnetizing a portion of each of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or a portion of the support bar (255). For example, the first magnet (330) may be formed by removing a portion of the upper surface of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the upper surface of the support bar (255) to form a groove, and filling the groove with a magnetic material. For example, the first magnet (330) can be formed by bonding to the upper surfaces of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the upper surface of the support bar (255). The first magnet (330) can be bonded through a bonding process such as thermal bonding or bonding. In order to secure bonding force of the first magnet (330) to the upper surfaces of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the upper surface of the support bar (255), the bonding surface of the first magnet (330) can include a concavo-convex portion (710). The concavo-convex portion (710) can improve the bonding force by expanding the area of ​​the bonding surface.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 7c, the first magnet (330) may be formed on the lower surface of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the lower surface of the support bar (255). For example, the first magnet (330) in the form of a plate including a magnetic material may be attached on the lower surface of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the lower surface of the support bar (255).

[0136] Referring to FIG. 7d, the first magnet (330) may be disposed on the lower surface of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the lower surface of the support bar (255). For example, the first magnet (330) may be patterned on the lower surface of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the lower surface of the support bar (255). The first magnet (330) may have a certain pattern shape. The first magnet (330) may be implemented in various shapes depending on the area or shape of the hinge plates (252, 253) and / or the support bar (255).

[0137] Referring to FIG. 7E, various patterns of the first magnet (330) are illustrated. For example, the first magnet (330) may have a first shape (701) that extends circularly along concentric circles. For example, the first magnet (330) may have a second shape (702) that extends linearly along squares. For example, the first magnet (330) may have a third shape (703) that extends linearly along rectangles. For example, the first magnet (330) may have a fourth shape (704) that is a circular ring shape. For example, the first magnet (330) may have a fifth shape (705) that is a square ring shape with rounded corners. For example, the first magnet (330) may have a sixth shape (706) of a rectangular ring shape with rounded corners. In addition, various embodiments regarding the arrangement structure and shape of the first magnet (330) may be possible.

[0138] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment including a flexible printed circuit board connected to an electromagnet.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 8A, a foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a flexible printed circuit board (810). The flexible printed circuit board (810) may be flexible. The flexible printed circuit board (810) may include a conductive layer. The flexible printed circuit board (810) may be configured to provide electrical connections for electronic components using wires formed on the conductive layer. For example, the flexible printed circuit board (810) may be connected to a first printed circuit board (261) and a second printed circuit board (262).

[0140] According to one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (810) may be configured to electrically connect a battery (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 4) and an electromagnet (e.g., electromagnet (440) of FIG. 4). At least one of the first magnet (330) or the second magnet (340) may correspond to an electromagnet. For example, connectors of the flexible printed circuit board (810) may be electrically connected to the battery and the electromagnet. Current provided from the battery to the electromagnet may be provided through the flexible printed circuit board (810).

[0141] FIG. 8A illustrates an embodiment in which the first magnet (330) included in the hinge plates (252, 253) corresponds to an electromagnet, and the second magnet (340) included in the flexible display (230) corresponds to a permanent magnet. According to one embodiment, a flexible printed circuit board (810) may be configured to electrically connect a battery and the first magnet (330). The flexible printed circuit board (810) may be connected to each of the battery and the first magnet (330). When the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, current may be provided from the battery to the electromagnet (e.g., the first magnet (330)) to magnetize the electromagnet. The current provided from the battery to the electromagnet may be provided to the electromagnet through the flexible printed circuit board (810).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the first magnet (330) may include a magnet (330a) included in the first hinge plate (252) and a magnet (330b) included in the second hinge plate (253). When the first magnet (330) corresponds to an electromagnet, the flexible printed circuit board (810) may be connected to both the magnet (330a) included in the first hinge plate (252) and the magnet (330b) included in the second hinge plate (253). Since the flexible printed circuit board (810) is flexible, it may be arranged to cross between the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253). The flexible printed circuit board (810) can be connected to both the magnet (330a) included in the first hinge plate (252) and the magnet (330b) included in the second hinge plate (253) by being at least partially bent. For example, the flexible printed circuit board (810) can include connectors coupled to the magnet (330a) and the magnet (330b). The connectors can be coupled to the first magnet (330) by penetrating grooves formed on the lower surfaces of the hinge plates (252, 253). For example, the connectors can be brought into contact with the first magnet (330) through an anisotropic conductive film (ACF).

[0143] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, current may be supplied from the flexible printed circuit board (810) to an electromagnet (e.g., a first magnet (330)). By supplying the current, an attractive force (or repulsive force) may be induced between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) corresponding to the electromagnet. The attractive force (or repulsive force) may pull the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310) downward (e.g., in the -z direction), thereby alleviating and / or eliminating a crease within the bending portion (313).

[0144] FIG. 8B illustrates an embodiment in which the first magnet (330) included in the hinge plates (252, 253) corresponds to a permanent magnet, and the second magnet (340) included in the flexible display (230) corresponds to an electromagnet. According to one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (810) may be configured to electrically connect the battery and the second magnet (340). The flexible printed circuit board (810) may be connected to each of the battery and the second magnet (340). When the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, current may be provided from the battery to the electromagnet (e.g., the second magnet (340)) to magnetize the electromagnet. The current provided from the battery to the electromagnet may be provided to the electromagnet through the flexible printed circuit board (810). The flexible printed circuit board (810) can be extended from the battery toward the second magnet (340) by at least partially bending.

[0145] FIG. 9A illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment including a cushion. FIG. 9B illustrates a rear surface of a flexible display of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment including a cushion.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 9A, a foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a cushion (305). The cushion (305) may be positioned under the third portion (323) of the support plate (320) to alleviate impact applied to the bending portion (313). Since the cushion (305) is positioned under the third portion (323) of the support plate (320), the cushion (305) may be positioned above (e.g., in the +z direction) the hinge plates (252, 253) and the support bar (255). The cushion (305) may be configured to absorb impact and thereby reduce damage to the bending portion (313). The cushion (305) may be disposed between the rigid hinge plates (252, 253) and the support bar (255) and the flexible bending portion (313) to reduce damage to the bending portion (313). For example, the cushion (305) may include an elastic material (e.g., rubber, polyurethane, pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), etc.). In one embodiment, the cushion (305) may be disposed to overlap the first magnet (330). In one embodiment, the cushion (305) may be disposed on the first magnet (330) to reduce the magnetic material forming the first magnet (330) from being detached.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 9B, the cushion (305) may be positioned to overlap with the second magnet (340). As described above, since the cushion (305) also overlaps with the first magnet (330), it may be positioned to overlap with both the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340). In one embodiment, the cushion (305) may prevent the magnetic material separated from the first magnet (330) or the second magnet (340) from reaching the back surface of the display panel (310). For example, when the magnetic material comes into contact with the back surface of the display panel (310), the display panel (310) may be damaged due to the frictional force between the display panel (310) and the magnetic material. The cushion (305) is placed under the third part (323) to prevent the magnetic material from reaching the display panel (310).

[0148] As described above, the foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (200) of FIG. 3) can alleviate or eliminate the creasing of the bending portion (e.g., the bending portion (313) of FIG. 3) based on a magnetic force applied in the unfolded state. Although the foldable electronic device (200) described above has been described as including a foldable housing (e.g., the foldable housing (201) of FIG. 3) including a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 3) and a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 3), embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. A foldable housing (e.g., foldable housing (1001) of FIG. 10A) of a foldable electronic device (e.g., foldable electronic device (1000) of FIG. 10A) described below may further include a third housing part (e.g., third housing part (1030) of FIG. 10A) in addition to a first housing part (e.g., first housing part (1010) of FIG. 10A) and a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (1020) of FIG. 10A).

[0149] Hereinafter, a foldable electronic device (1000) including a foldable housing (1001) including a first housing part (1010), a second housing part (1020), and a third housing part (1030) is described. The foldable electronic device (1000) may be referred to as an electronic device.

[0150] Fig. 10a illustrates an example of a first state of an electronic device. Fig. 10b illustrates an example of a second state of an electronic device. Fig. 10c illustrates an example of a third state of an electronic device.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C, an electronic device (1000) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a foldable housing (1001), a flexible display (1040), a first hinge assembly (1050), a second hinge assembly (1060), and a display (1070). The foldable housing (1001) may include a first housing part (1010), a second housing part (1020), and a third housing part (1030).

[0152] The first housing part (1010) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (1020) by the first hinge assembly (1050). The second housing part (1020) and the first housing part (1010) can be rotated with respect to the first hinge assembly (1050). While the first housing part (1010) is rotated with respect to the first hinge assembly (1050), the second housing part (1020) can be rotated with respect to the first hinge assembly (1050). For example, when the second housing part (1020) and the first housing part (1010) are rotated with respect to the first hinge assembly (1050), the angular displacement of the second housing part (1020) can be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the first housing part (1010).

[0153] The third housing part (1030) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (1020) by the second hinge assembly (1060). The second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) can rotate with respect to the second hinge assembly (1060). While the second housing part (1020) rotates with respect to the second hinge assembly (1060), the third housing part (1030) can rotate with respect to the second hinge assembly (1060). For example, when the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) rotate with respect to the second hinge assembly (1060), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (1020) can be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the third housing part (1030).

[0154] The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) can provide (or enable) a first state (1000a) of the electronic device (1000) (or a first state (1000a) of the foldable housing (1001)). The first state (1000a) of the electronic device (1000) (or the first state (1000a) of the foldable housing (1001)) can be described as an unfolded state (or an unfolded state) of the electronic device (1000) (or the foldable housing (1001)). Within the first state (1000a), the front surface of the first housing part (1010), the front surface of the second housing part (1020), and the front surface of the third housing part (1030) can define the front surface of the electronic device (1000). Within the first state (1000a), the front surface of the first housing part (1010), the front surface of the second housing part (1020), and the front surface of the third housing part (1030) can face the same direction. Within the first state (1000a), the electronic device (1000) can provide a large display area of ​​the flexible display (1040) to the user.

[0155] The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) can provide a second state (1000b) of the electronic device (1000). The second state (1000b) of the electronic device (1000) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (1000) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folding state or a half folding state). For example, within the second state (1000b), the front surface of the second housing part (1020) and the front surface of the third housing part (1030) may face the same direction, and the front surface of the first housing part (1010) and the front surface of the second housing part (1020) may face opposite directions. For example, within the second state (1000b), the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) can be folded, and the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) can be unfolded. Within the second state (1000b), the electronic device (1000) can provide visual information through a portion of the flexible display (1040) (e.g., the third display area (1040c)).

[0156] The electronic device (1000) can change from the first state (1000a) to the third state (1000c) through the second state (1000b). The electronic device (1000) can change from the first state (1000a), which is an unfolded state, to the second state (1000b), which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (1000) can change from the first state (1000a), in which the first housing part (1010), the second housing part (1020), and the third housing part (1030) face the same direction, to the second state (1000b), in which the front side of the first housing part (1010) faces the front side of the second housing part (1020). The electronic device (1000) can change from a second state (1000b), which is a partially unfolded state, to a third state (1000c), which is a folded state. For example, when changing from the second state (1000b) to the third state (1000c), the folded first housing part (1010) and second housing part (1020) can be placed on the third housing part (1030).

[0157] The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) can provide a third state (1000c) of the electronic device (1000) (or a third state (1000c) of the foldable housing (1001)). The third state (1000c) of the electronic device (1000) (or the third state (1000c) of the foldable housing (1001)) can be described as a folded state (or a folding state or a multi-folding state) of the electronic device (1000) (or the foldable housing (1001)). Within the third state (1000c), the front surface of the first housing part (1010) and the front surface of the second housing part (1020) can face opposite directions, and the front surface of the second housing part (1020) and the front surface of the third housing part (1030) can face opposite directions. Within the third state (1000c), the front of the first housing part (1010) and the front of the third housing part (1030) may face the same direction. For example, within the third state (1000c), the front of the second housing part (1020) may face the front of the first housing part (1010), and the front of the third housing part (1030) may face the back of the first housing part (1010). Within the third state (1000c), the back of the second housing part (1020) may be exposed to the outside. The display (1070) may be disposed on the back of the second housing part (1020). Within the third state (1000c), the back of the third housing part (1030) may be exposed to the outside. The camera (1075) may be disposed on the back of the third housing part (1030). Within the third state (1000c), the electronic device (1000) can be folded to improve portability and provide visual information through a display (1070) disposed on the rear of the second housing (1020).

[0158] The electronic device (1000) may further include a key button (1039). The key button (1039) may be exposed from a structure (e.g., an opening) formed on a side surface of the third housing part (1030) and may partially protrude outside the electronic device (1000). The key button (1039) may provide a physical input to a processing circuit inside the electronic device (1000) by pressure transmitted from the outside. The key button (1039) may not be included in the electronic device (1000) and may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key displayed on a flexible display (1040) or a display (1070).

[0159] The key button (1039) may be positioned on the side of the third housing part (1030) so as to be exposed to the outside in the third state (1000c). As the key button (1039) is positioned on the side of the third housing part (1030), it may be positioned in the direction in which the side of the third housing (1030) faces. Even if the display (1070) in the third state (1000c) is changed to the first state (1000a) by a user looking at it, the position of the key button (1039) positioned on the side of the third housing (1030) may not move. For example, referring to FIG. 10a, in the first state (1000a), when the flexible display (1040) is viewed from above, the key button (1039) may be positioned on the right side. Referring to FIG. 10b, in the third state (1000c), when the display (1070) is viewed from above, the key button (1039) may be placed on the right side.

[0160] A flexible display (1040) can at least partially define the exterior appearance of the electronic device (1000). The flexible display (1040) can be partially disposed within the foldable housing (1001). The flexible display (1040) can define the front surface of the electronic device (1000). The flexible display (1040) can include a first planar portion (1041), a second planar portion (1042), a third planar portion (1043), a first bending portion (1044), and a second bending portion (1045). The first planar portion (1041) of the flexible display (1040) can be disposed on the front surface of the first housing part (1010). The second planar portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040) can be disposed on the front surface of the second housing part (1020). The third flat portion (1043) of the flexible display (1040) may be disposed on the front side of the third housing part (1030). The first bending portion (1044) of the flexible display (1040) may be disposed between the first flat portion (1041) and the third flat portion (1043) of the flexible display (1040). For example, the first bending portion (1044) of the flexible display (1040) may be disposed on the first hinge assembly (1050) connecting the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020). The second bending portion (1045) of the flexible display (1040) may be disposed between the second flat portion (1042) and the third flat portion (1043) of the flexible display (1040). For example, the second bending portion (1045) of the flexible display (1040) may be placed on the second hinge assembly (1060) connecting the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030).

[0161] The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) can provide a first state (1000a) of the electronic device (1000). The first planar portion (1041) of the flexible display (1040), the second planar portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040), and the third planar portion (1043) of the flexible display (1040) can face substantially the same direction. Within the first state (1000a), the first bending portion (1044) and the second bending portion (1045) can be arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first planar portion (1041), the second planar portion (1042), and the third planar portion (1043).

[0162] The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) can provide a second state (1000b) of the electronic device (1000). Within the second state (1000b), the first planar portion (1041) of the flexible display (1040) can face the second planar portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040), and the third planar portion (1043) of the flexible display (1040) can face the same direction as the second planar portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040). For example, the second planar portion (1042) and the third planar portion (1043) can be arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane.

[0163] In the second state (1000b), the first bending portion (1044) of the flexible display (1040) is bent by the first hinge assembly (1050), so that the first bending portion (1044) of the flexible display (1040) can be folded so that the first flat portion (1041) of the flexible display (1040) and the second flat portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040) face different directions.

[0164] In the second state (1000b), the second bending portion (1045) of the flexible display (1040) is maintained in an unfolded state by the second hinge assembly (1060), so that the second bending portion (1045) of the flexible display (1040) can unfold so that the second flat portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040) and the third flat portion (1043) of the flexible display (1040) face the same direction.

[0165] The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) can provide a third state (1000c) of the electronic device (1000). Within the third state (1000c), the second planar portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040) can face the first planar portion (1041) of the flexible display (1040), and the third planar portion (1043) of the flexible display (1040) can face the back of the first housing part (1010).

[0166] In the third state (1000c), the first bending portion (1044) of the flexible display (1040) is bent by the first hinge assembly (1050), so that the first bending portion (1044) of the flexible display (1040) can be folded so that the first flat portion (1041) of the flexible display (1040) and the second flat portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040) face different directions.

[0167] In the third state (1000c), the second bending portion (1045) of the flexible display (1040) is bent by the second hinge assembly (1060), so that the second bending portion (1045) of the flexible display (1040) can be folded such that the second flat portion (1042) of the flexible display (1040) and the third flat portion (1043) of the flexible display (1040) face different directions. The second bending portion (1045) may further include a first deformable portion (1045a), a second deformable portion (1045b), and a flat portion (1045c). The first deformable portion (1045a) may be disposed between the flat portion (1045c) and the second flat portion (1042), and the second deformable portion (1045b) may be disposed between the flat portion (1045c) and the third flat portion (1043). The flat portion (1045c) may be disposed between the first deformable portion (1045a) and the second deformable portion (1045b). The flat portion (1045c) may be supported by a support plate (e.g., the support plate (1164) of FIG. 11a) that is distinct from the hinge plates of the second hinge assembly (1060) (e.g., the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163) of FIG. 11a). Regardless of the state of the electronic device (1000), the flat portion (1045c) may remain flat. The first deformable portion (1045a) and the second deformable portion (1045b) can be unfolded in the first state (1000a) and the second state (1000b), and in the third state (1000c), the first deformable portion (1045a) and the second deformable portion (1045b) can be bent so that the second planar portion (1042) and the third planar portion (1043) face different directions. In the third state (1000c), the first housing part (1010) can be disposed between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030).Within the third state (1000c), the second bending portion (1045) of the flexible display (1040) disposed on the second hinge assembly (1060) may be partially directed toward the side surface (1010c) of the first housing part (1010).

[0168] The display area of ​​the flexible display (1040) may include a first display area (1040a), a second display area (1040b), and a third display area (1040c). The display area represents an area that can provide visual information from the flexible display (1040). In the first state (1000a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (1040) may be visible from the front of the foldable housing (1001). For example, in the first state (1000a), the first display area (1040a), the second display area (1040b), and the third display area (1040c) of the flexible display (1040) may be visually exposed. The electronic device (1000) can provide a user with a large display area including a first display area (1040a), a second display area (1040b), and a third display area (1040c).

[0169] Within the second state (1000b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (1040) may be partially visible from the front of the third housing part (1030). For example, the third display area (1040c) may be visually exposed, and the first display area (1040a) and the second display area (1040b) may not be visually exposed.

[0170] Within the third state (1000c), the display area of ​​the flexible display (1040) may not be visible. For example, within the third state (1000c), the first display area (1040a), the second display area (1040b), and the third display area (1040c) of the flexible display (1040) may not be visually exposed.

[0171] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (1040) is used to display a screen within a first state (1000a) of the electronic device (1000), the first display area (1040a), the second display area (1040b), and the third display area (1040c) of the flexible display (1040) may be activated. As a non-limiting example, within a third state (1000c), the first display area (1040a), the second display area (1040b), and the third display area (1040c) of the flexible display (1040) may be deactivated. As a non-limiting example, in a second state (1000b) of the electronic device (1000), when the flexible display (1040) is used to display a screen, the third display area (1040c) may be activated, and the first display area (1040a) and the second display area (1040b) of the flexible display (1040) may be deactivated.

[0172] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (1040) is used to display a screen within a first state (1000a) of the electronic device (1000), the first display area (1040a), the second display area (1040b), and the third display area (1040c) of the flexible display (1040) can display visual information. As a non-limiting example, within the third state (1000c), the first display area (1040a), the second display area (1040b), and the third display area (1040c) of the flexible display (1040) can provide a black image. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (1040) is used to display a screen within the second state (1000b) of the electronic device (1000), the third display area (1040c) may provide visual information, and the first display area (1040a) and the second display area (1040b) of the flexible display (1040) may provide a black image.

[0173] Figure 11a is a plan view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed. Figure 11b is a rear view of the electronic device with the back cover and display removed.

[0174] Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B , the electronic device (1000) may include a first hinge assembly (1050) and a second hinge assembly (1060). A first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (1050) may be narrower than a second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (1060). A difference between the first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (1050) and the second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (1060) may be equal to or greater than a thickness of the first housing part (1010). For example, the second hinge assembly (1060) may have a second width (w2) that is wider than the first width (w1) such that the first housing part (1010) is positioned between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) according to the third state (1000c). The first hinge assembly (1050) may be referred to as a narrow hinge structure in terms of having a narrower width than the second hinge assembly (1060). The second hinge assembly (1060) may be referred to as a wide hinge structure in terms of having a wider width than the first hinge assembly (1050).

[0175] A first hinge assembly (1050) may include a first set of gears (1151), a first hinge plate (1152), and a second hinge plate (1153). The first hinge plate (1152) may be coupled to a first support portion (1011) of a first housing part (1010). The second hinge plate (1153) may be coupled to a second support portion (1021) of a second housing part (1020). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (1151) may be configured to rotate the first hinge plate (1152) and the second hinge plate (1153). For example, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (1151) can rotate the second hinge plate (1153) (or the second housing part (1020)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (1152) (or the first housing part (1010)). After the first hinge plate (1152) (or the first housing part (1010)) is rotated, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (1151) can be rotated in accordance with the rotation of the first hinge plate (1152) (or the first housing part (1010)). The second hinge plate (1153) (or the second housing part (1020)) can rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (1152) according to the rotation of the gears included in the first set of gears (1151). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (1151) can include a first gear (g11), a second gear (g12), a third gear (g13), and a fourth gear (g14). The first gear (g11) can be arranged adjacent to the first hinge plate (1152), and the fourth gear (g14) can be arranged adjacent to the second hinge plate (1153). The second gear (g12) and the third gear (g13) can be arranged between the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14).The first gear (g11), the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13), and the fourth gear (g14) can be sequentially meshed. According to the rotation of the first gear (g11) in the first rotation direction (e.g., clockwise), the second gear (g12) meshed with the first gear (g11) can be rotated in the second rotation direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the second gear (g12) in the second rotation direction, the third gear (g13) meshed with the second gear (g12) can be rotated in the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the third gear (g13) in the first rotation direction, the fourth gear (g14) can be rotated in the second rotation direction. As the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14) rotate in different directions, the first housing part (1010) connected to the first hinge plate (1152) and the second housing part (1020) connected to the second hinge plate (1153) can be folded or unfolded.

[0176] A second hinge assembly (1060) may include a second set of gears (1161), a third hinge plate (1162), a fourth hinge plate (1163), and a support plate (1164). The third hinge plate (1162) may be coupled to a second support portion (1021) of a second housing part (1020). The fourth hinge plate (1163) may be coupled to a third support portion (1031) of a third housing part (1030). The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1161) may be configured to rotate the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163). For example, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1161) can rotate the fourth hinge plate (1163) (or the third housing part (1030)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (1162) (or the second housing part (1020)). After the third hinge plate (1162) (or the second housing part (1020)) is rotated, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1161) can be rotated in accordance with the rotation of the third hinge plate (1162) (or the second housing part (1020)). The fourth hinge plate (1163) (or the third housing part (1030)) can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (1162) according to the rotation of the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1161).

[0177] The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (1161) may include a first gear (g21), a second gear (g22), a third gear (g23), a fourth gear (g24), a fifth gear (g25), and a sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21) may be arranged adjacent to the third hinge plate (1162), and the sixth gear (g26) may be arranged adjacent to the fourth hinge plate (1163). The second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), and the fifth gear (g25) may be arranged between the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21), the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), the fifth gear (g25), and the sixth gear (g26) can be sequentially meshed. According to the rotation of the first rotation direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g21), the second gear (g22) meshed with the first gear (g21) can be rotated in a second rotation direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the second rotation direction of the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23) meshed with the second gear (g22) can be rotated in the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the first rotation direction of the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the second rotation direction. According to the rotation of the fourth gear (g24) in the second rotation direction, the fifth gear (g25) meshed with the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the fifth gear (g25) in the first rotation direction, the sixth gear (g26) meshed with the fifth gear (g25) can be rotated in the second rotation direction. As the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26) rotate in different directions, the second housing part (1020) connected to the third hinge plate (1162) and the third housing part (1030) connected to the fourth hinge plate (1163) can be folded or unfolded.

[0178] The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) may further include a spiral structure. The spiral structure may include a spiral groove formed on each hinge plate or a rotating member connected to the hinge plate, and a moving member sliding along the spiral groove. The hinge plates connected to the hinge assembly may be configured to rotate at substantially the same angular displacement through the spiral structure.

[0179] The electronic device (1000) may include a first printed circuit board (1171), a second printed circuit board (1172), and a third printed circuit board (1173).

[0180] A first printed circuit board (1171) may be placed on a first support portion (1011) of a first housing part (1010). Hardware components within the first housing part (1010) may be placed on the first printed circuit board (1171). A second printed circuit board (1172) may be placed on a second support portion (1021) of a second housing part (1020). A third printed circuit board (1173) may be placed on a third support portion (1031) of a third housing part (1030). Hardware components within the third housing part (1030) may be placed on the third printed circuit board (1173).

[0181] The hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (1171) can support or operate independently of the hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (1172) and / or the hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (1173).

[0182] The hardware components arranged on the second printed circuit board (1172) may support or operate independently of the hardware components arranged on the first printed circuit board (1171) or the third printed circuit board (1173). The hardware components arranged on the second printed circuit board (1172) may include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0183] Hardware components arranged on the third printed circuit board (1173) may include at least one processor including a processing circuit (e.g., an application processor (AP), a communication processor (CP)), a memory including one or more storage media, a communication circuit, and a rear camera (1075). The rear camera (1075) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the second housing part (1020).

[0184] The electronic device (1000) may further include a sub-printed circuit board (1175) and flexible printed circuit boards (1180, 1190). The sub-printed circuit board (1175) may be disposed on at least some of the first housing part (1010), the second housing part (1020), and the third housing part (1030). The flexible printed circuit boards (1180, 1190) may include a first flexible printed circuit board (1180) and a second flexible printed circuit board (1190). The first flexible printed circuit board (1180) may electrically connect the printed circuit boards disposed on each of the housing parts (1010, 1020, 1030). The second flexible printed circuit board (1190) can connect the printed circuit board and the sub-printed circuit board (1175) within the housing part in which the sub-printed circuit board (1175) is placed by the second flexible printed circuit board (1190).

[0185] Components within the electronic device (1000) may be connected to at least one processor within a third printed circuit board (1173) via flexible printed circuit boards (1180, 1190). For example, a signal received from an antenna disposed in the third housing part (1030) may be transmitted to the third printed circuit board (1173) on which at least one processor (e.g., an AP or CP) is disposed via a signal path (a) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (1180). A driving circuit for a flexible display (1040) disposed within the first housing part (1010) may be connected to the third printed circuit board (1173) on which at least one processor (e.g., an AP) is disposed via a signal path (b) provided by the sub-printed circuit board (1175) and the first flexible printed circuit board (1180). A driving circuit for a display (1070) connected to a sub-printed circuit board (1175) disposed on a second housing part (1020) may be electrically connected to a third printed circuit board (1173) on which at least one processor (e.g., AP) is disposed via a signal path (c) provided by the sub-printed circuit board (1175) and the first flexible printed circuit board (1180) and the second flexible printed circuit board (1190).

[0186] The electronic device (1000) may further include batteries. Each of the batteries may be attached to support portions (1011, 1021, 1031) included in the housing parts (1010, 1020, 1030). The support portions (1011, 1021, 1031) may support rechargeable batteries.

[0187] The arrangement of hardware components is exemplary, and differently from the above, the rear camera (1075) and the second printed circuit board (1172) may be arranged in the third housing part (1030), and the third printed circuit board (1173) may be arranged in the second housing part (1020).

[0188] The first housing part (1010) and the third housing part (1030) are shown as rotating in opposite directions with respect to the second housing part (1020), but are not limited thereto. For example, during the change from the first state (1000a) to the third state (1000c), the first housing part (1010) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (1020), and the third housing part (1030) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (1020). As the first housing part (1010) and the third housing part (1030) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (1040) within the second state may be visually exposed.

[0189] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines BB' and C-C' of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0190] Hereinafter, magnets for alleviating and / or eliminating the creases of the first bending portion (1214) and the second bending portion (1215) of the foldable electronic device (1000) are described. The foldable electronic device (1000) described below may be substantially the same as the foldable electronic device described above (e.g., the foldable electronic device (200) of FIG. 3) except that it includes two bending portions (1214, 1215) and four magnets (1231, 1232, 1233, 1234).

[0191] Referring to FIG. 12, according to one embodiment, a foldable housing (1001) may include a first housing part (1010), a second housing part (1020), and a third housing part (1030). A first hinge assembly (1050) may rotatably connect the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020). The first hinge assembly (1050) may include hinge plates (e.g., a first hinge plate (1152) and a second hinge plate (1153)). For example, the first housing part (1010) may be coupled with the first hinge plate (1152), and the second housing part (1020) may be coupled with the second hinge plate (1153). The second hinge assembly (1060) can rotatably connect the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030). The second hinge assembly (1060) can include hinge plates (e.g., the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163)). For example, the second housing part (1020) can be coupled with the third hinge plate (1162), and the third housing part (1030) can be coupled with the fourth hinge plate (1163).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (1040) may include a display panel (1210) and a support plate (1220). The display panel (1210) may include a first planar portion (1211), a second planar portion (1212), a third planar portion (1213), a first bending portion (1214), and a second bending portion (1215). The first planar portion (1211) may be a portion of the flexible display (1040) supported by the first housing part (1010). The second planar portion (1212) may be a portion of the flexible display (1040) supported by the second housing part (1020). The third planar portion (1213) may be a portion of the flexible display (1040) supported by the third housing part (1030). The first bending portion (1214) may be arranged between the first planar portion (1211) and the second planar portion (1212) and configured to be bent by rotation of the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020). The second bending portion (1215) may be arranged between the second planar portion (1212) and the third planar portion (1213) and configured to be bent by rotation of the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030).

[0193] According to one embodiment, the support plate (1220) may include a first portion (1221) and a second portion (1222). The first portion (1221) may be disposed below the first bending portion (1214) and may include a plurality of first slits (1223). The second portion (1222) may be disposed below the second bending portion (1215) and may include a plurality of second slits (1224). Based on the rotation of the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020), the shapes of the plurality of first slits (1223) may be deformed, and by the deformation of the shapes of the plurality of first slits (1223), the first portion (1221) may be bent together with the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020). Based on the rotation of the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030), the shape of the plurality of second slits (1224) can be deformed, and by the deformation of the shape of the plurality of second slits (1224), the second part (1222) can be bent together with the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030). The support plate (1220) can include a third part (1225) disposed below (e.g., in the -z direction) the first planar part (1211), a fourth part (1226) disposed below the second planar part (1212), and a fifth part (1227) disposed below the third planar part (1213). The first part (1221) can be positioned between the third part (1225) and the fourth part (1226), and the second part (1222) can be positioned between the fourth part (1226) and the fifth part (1227).

[0194] In one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (1050) may include a first magnet (1231). Each of the hinge plates (1152, 1153) of the first hinge assembly (1050) may include a first magnet (1231). For example, the first hinge plate (1152) and the second hinge plate (1153) may include a first magnet (1231). To support the first bending portion (1214), a first support bar (1154) may be positioned below (e.g., in the -z direction) the first bending portion (1214). The first support bar (1154) may also include a first magnet (1231).

[0195] In one embodiment, the second hinge assembly (1060) may include a second magnet (1232). Each of the hinge plates (1162, 1163) of the second hinge assembly (1060) may include a second magnet (1232). For example, the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163) may include a second magnet (1232). To support the second bending portion (1215), a second support bar (1164) may be positioned below (e.g., in the -z direction) the second bending portion (1215). The second support bar (1164) may also include a second magnet (1232).

[0196] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (1040) may include a third magnet (1233) and a fourth magnet (1234). The third magnet (1233) may be paired with the first magnet (1231), and the fourth magnet (1234) may be paired with the second magnet (1232). For example, the support plate (1220) may include the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234). The third magnet (1233) may be positioned between the first bending portion (1214) of the display panel (1210) and the first portion (1221) including the plurality of first slits (1223). The fourth magnet (1234) may be positioned between the second bending portion (1215) of the display panel (1210) and the second portion (1222) including the plurality of second slits (1224). When a protective film (1203) is attached under the display panel (1210), the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be in contact with the protective film (1203). However, in embodiments of the present disclosure, the positions of the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234) are not limited to the positions described above. For example, the descriptions regarding the placement position of the second magnet (e.g., the second magnet (340) of FIG. 3) described with reference to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E can be substantially equally applied to the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234) of FIG. 12. For example, the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234) can be placed within the protective film (1203), as illustrated in FIG. 6A. For example, the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234) can be placed below (e.g., in the -z direction) the support plate (1220), as illustrated in FIG. 6B. The third magnet (1233) can be placed under the first part (1221), and the fourth magnet (1234) can be placed under the second part (1222).For example, the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234) may form a portion of the first portion (1221) and a portion of the second portion (1222), as illustrated in FIG. 6C. The third magnet (1233) may form a portion of the first portion (1221), and the fourth magnet (1234) may form a portion of the second portion (1222). For example, the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234) may form a portion of the layers forming the support plate (1220), as illustrated in FIG. 6D. For example, the third magnet (1233) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be disposed within the first portion (1221) and the second portion (1222), as illustrated in FIG. 6E. The third magnet (1233) may be placed within the first portion (1221), and the fourth magnet (1234) may be placed within the second portion (1222). In addition to these, various embodiments may be possible.

[0197] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1000) may be configured to induce an attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) and / or an attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) based on a state of the foldable electronic device (1000). In the case of the foldable electronic device (1000) illustrated in FIG. 12, since it includes a first bending portion (1214) and a second bending portion (1215), the flexible display (1040) can be bent at both portions. The foldable electronic device (1000) can alleviate and / or eliminate a crease within the first bending portion (1214) by inducing an attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) while the first bending portion (1214) is in a flat state. The foldable electronic device (1000) can alleviate and / or eliminate creases within the second bending portion (1215) by causing an attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) while the second bending portion (1215) is in a flat state.

[0198] The structures of the foldable electronic device (1000) including three housing parts may vary. The structures of the foldable electronic device (1000) will be described later with reference to FIGS. 17, 18, and 19. For example, the sizes of the first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) may be different or the same. In the case of the foldable electronic device (1000) having a structure in which one of the three housing parts is positioned between the other two housing parts in a folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the width of the second hinge assembly (1060) may be greater than the width of the first hinge assembly (1050). The first hinge assembly (1050) may be referred to as a narrow hinge in terms of having a relatively narrow width, and the second hinge assembly (1060) may be referred to as a wide hinge in terms of having a relatively wide width.

[0199] In the following description, for convenience of explanation, the states resulting from the rotation of the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) may be referred to as a first unfolded state, a first folded state, and a first intermediate state, and the states resulting from the rotation of the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) may be referred to as a second unfolded state, a second folded state, and a second intermediate state. The first unfolded state may be referred to as a state in which the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) are unfolded so that the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) are arranged on substantially the same plane. The first folded state may be referred to as a state in which the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) are folded so that the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) are arranged to be covered or overlapped. The first intermediate state may be referred to as intermediate states between the first folded state and the first unfolded state. The second unfolded state may be referred to as a state in which the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) are unfolded so that the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) are arranged on substantially the same plane. The second folded state may be referred to as a state in which the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) are folded so that the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) are arranged to be covered or overlapped. The second intermediate state may be referred to as an intermediate state between the second folded state and the second unfolded state.

[0200] FIGS. 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e, and 13f illustrate arrangement structures of the first magnet according to various embodiments.

[0201] Although the second hinge assembly (1060) and the second magnet (1232) of FIG. 12 are illustrated in FIGS. 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, 13e, and 13f, the descriptions below regarding the second hinge assembly (1060) and the second magnet (1232) may be substantially equally applicable to the first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (1050) of FIG. 12) and the first magnet (e.g., the first magnet (1231) of FIG. 12).

[0202] Referring to FIG. 13A, the second magnet (1232) may be positioned within the second support bar (1164) between the hinge plates (1162, 1163). For example, the second hinge assembly (1060) may include the second support bar (1164) positioned between the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163). The second magnet (1232) may be positioned within the second support bar (1164) in a patterned manner.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 13B, the second magnet (1232) may form at least a portion of the second support bar (1164) between the hinge plates (1162, 1163). For example, the second hinge assembly (1060) may include the second support bar (1164) disposed between the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163). The second magnet (1232) may at least partially form the second support bar (1164). For example, the second support bar (1164) may be formed of a magnetic material and thus may include the second magnet (1232).

[0204] Referring to FIG. 13C, the second magnet (1232) may be positioned within the hinge plates (1162, 1163). For example, the second hinge assembly (1060) may include a third hinge plate (1162) and a fourth hinge plate (1163). The second magnet (1232) may be positioned in a pattern within the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163). When an opening or structure is positioned within the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163), the patterned second magnet (1232) may bypass the opening or structure.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 13d, the second magnet (1232) may form at least a portion of the hinge plates (1162, 1163). For example, the second hinge assembly (1060) may include a third hinge plate (1162) and a fourth hinge plate (1163). The second magnet (1232) may at least partially form the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163). A portion of the second magnet (1232) may be arranged within the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163) in a patterned manner. When an opening or structure is located within the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163), the part of the second magnet (1232) in the pattern shape can bypass the opening or structure.

[0206] Referring to FIG. 13E, the second magnet (1232) may be positioned within the hinge plates (1162, 1163) and the second support bar (1164). For example, the second hinge assembly (1060) may include a third hinge plate (1162), a fourth hinge plate (1163), and a second support bar (1164) positioned between the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163). The second magnet (1232) may be positioned in a pattern shape within the third hinge plate (1162), the fourth hinge plate (1163), and the second support bar (1164).

[0207] Referring to FIG. 13F, the second magnet (1232) may at least partially form the hinge plates (1162, 1163) and the second support bar (1164). For example, the second hinge assembly (1060) may include a third hinge plate (1162), a fourth hinge plate (1163), and a second support bar (1164) between the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163). The second magnet (1232) may at least partially form the third hinge plate (1162), the fourth hinge plate (1163), and the second support bar (1164). A portion of the second magnet (1232) may be arranged within the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163) in a patterned manner. When an opening or structure is located within the third hinge plate (1162) and the fourth hinge plate (1163), a portion of the second magnet (1232) in the form of a pattern may bypass the opening or structure. In addition, various embodiments may be possible.

[0208] FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating components of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0209] Referring to FIG. 14, a foldable electronic device (1000) according to one embodiment may include a first sensor (1410), a second sensor (1420), a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1), at least one processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1), a battery (e.g., the battery (189) of FIG. 1), a power management circuit (1430), a driver integrated circuit (1440), a first electromagnet (1451), and a second electromagnet (1452).

[0210] The components illustrated in FIG. 4 may be substantially identical to the components illustrated in FIG. 14. Comparing FIG. 4 and FIG. 14, the foldable electronic device (200) of FIG. 4 and the foldable electronic device (1000) of FIG. 14 may be substantially identical, except for the difference in that they include two sensors and two electromagnets. The descriptions described with reference to FIG. 4 may be substantially identically applied to the components illustrated in FIG. 14, and any redundant descriptions may be omitted.

[0211] According to one embodiment, the first sensor (1410) and the second sensor (1420) can be used to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the first sensor (1410) may be used to identify a first folded state, a first unfolded state, or a first intermediate state based on the rotation of the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020). For example, the first sensor (1410) may be configured to provide data representing angle information between the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) to at least one processor (120). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify the first unfolded state, the first folded state, or the first intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) based on the data received from the sensor (410).

[0213] According to one embodiment, the second sensor (1420) may be used to identify a second folded state, a second unfolded state, or a second intermediate state based on the rotation of the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030). For example, the second sensor (1420) may be configured to provide data representing angle information between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) to at least one processor (120). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify the second unfolded state, the second folded state, or the second intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) based on the data received from the sensor (410).

[0214] Depending on the structure of the foldable housing (1001) of the foldable electronic device (1000), the order in which the foldable housing (1001) is folded or unfolded may be determined. Differences depending on the structure of the foldable housing (1001) will be described later.

[0215] According to one embodiment, the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may be induced based on a first unfolded state in which the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) unfold from each other. For example, within the first unfolded state, the first bending portion (1214) may be substantially flat. When the first bending portion (1214) is substantially flat, the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may be induced. By the attractive force, the first bending portion (1214) is pulled, thereby alleviating and / or eliminating a crease within the first bending portion (1214).

[0216] According to one embodiment, the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be induced based on a second unfolded state in which the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) unfold from each other. For example, within the second unfolded state, the second bending portion (1215) may be substantially flat. When the second bending portion (1215) is substantially flat, the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be induced. By this attractive force, the second bending portion (1215) is pulled, thereby alleviating and / or eliminating a crease within the second bending portion (1215).

[0217] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may be a first electromagnet (1451) electrically connected to the battery (189). At least one of the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be a second electromagnet (1452) electrically connected to the battery (189). The first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) may be magnetized when current is supplied from the battery (189). In a non-magnetized state, the first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) do not generate an attractive force.

[0218] According to one embodiment, the first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) may be electrically connected to a driver integrated circuit (1440). The driver integrated circuit (1440) may be configured to supply current provided from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) and / or the second electromagnet (1452) via a power management circuit (1430). For example, a first switch circuit (1461) may be disposed between the driver integrated circuit (1440) and the first electromagnet (1451), and a second switch circuit (1462) may be disposed between the driver integrated circuit (1440) and the second electromagnet (1452). The driver integrated circuit (1440) can supply current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) or not supply current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) by controlling the first switch circuit (1461). The driver integrated circuit (1440) can supply current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) or not supply current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) by controlling the second switch circuit (1462). At least one processor (120) can be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440).

[0219] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (1000) through the first sensor (1410) and the second sensor (1420), and control whether to supply current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) and / or the second electromagnet (1452) based on the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control whether to supply current to the first electromagnet (1451) and / or the second electromagnet (1452) by controlling the driver integrated circuit (1440).

[0220] Hereinafter, an operation of controlling the supply of current to the second electromagnets (1452) by at least one processor (120) is described. The order in which the foldable housing (1001) is folded or unfolded may vary depending on the structure of the foldable housing (1001), but the operation of controlling the first electromagnet (1451) and / or the second electromagnet (1452) may be substantially the same regardless of the structure of the foldable housing (1001).

[0221] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to control the supply of current to a first electromagnet.

[0222] The operations of FIG. 15 may be referred to as operations caused by a foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (1000) of FIG. 14) when instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 14) are executed by at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor (120) of FIG. 14).

[0223] Referring to FIG. 15, in operation 1501, instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (1000) through a first sensor (e.g., the first sensor (1410) of FIG. 14).

[0224] According to one embodiment, the first sensor (1410) may be configured to provide data representing a state (e.g., a first unfolded state, a first folded state, and a first intermediate state) of the foldable electronic device (1000) to at least one processor (120). For example, the at least one processor (120) may provide data representing angle information between a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (1010) of FIG. 12) and a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (1020) of FIG. 12) to the at least one processor (120). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to receive the data from the first sensor (1410) and identify the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) based on the data. For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) when an angle between the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) identified from the data falls within a first angular range (e.g., from about 175 degrees to about 185 degrees). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a first intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) when an angle between the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) identified from the data falls within a second angular range (e.g., from about 5 degrees to about 175 degrees). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a first folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) when an angle between the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) identified from the data falls within a third angle range (e.g., from about 0 degrees to about 5 degrees). The numerical values ​​of the angle ranges described above are merely exemplary, and embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0225] At operation 1503, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to determine whether the foldable electronic device (1000) has identified a first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0226] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may be configured to determine whether a first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) has been identified in order to determine whether a condition for supplying current to the first electromagnet (1451) is satisfied. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is the first unfolded state, operation 1505 may be performed. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is a state that is distinct from the first unfolded state, operation 1507 may be performed. Here, if the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is a state that is distinct from the first unfolded state, it may be referred to as a case where the first folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or the first intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) has been identified.

[0227] At operation 1505, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control a driver integrated circuit (e.g., the driver integrated circuit (1440) of FIG. 14) to provide current from a battery (e.g., the battery (189) of FIG. 14) to a first electromagnet (e.g., the first electromagnet (1451) of FIG. 14)) based on identifying a first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0228] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may magnetize the first electromagnet (1451) based on identifying the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to supply current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) for magnetizing the first electromagnet (1451). For example, the driver integrated circuit (1440) may be controlled by the at least one processor (120) to supply current supplied from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) via the power management circuit (1430). For example, the driver integrated circuit (1440) can control the first switch circuit (e.g., the first switch circuit (1461) of FIG. 14) to electrically connect the driver integrated circuit (1440) and the first electromagnet (1451), and current can be provided from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) through the power management circuit (1430), the driver integrated circuit (1440), and the first switch circuit (1461).

[0229] According to one embodiment, as current is supplied to the first electromagnet (1451), the first electromagnet (1451) may be magnetized. When the first electromagnet (1451) is magnetized, an attractive force may be induced between the first magnet (e.g., the first magnet (1231) of FIG. 12) and the third magnet (e.g., the third magnet (1233) of FIG. 12). For example, when the first magnet (1231) corresponds to the first electromagnet (1451) and the third magnet (1233) corresponds to a permanent magnet, as the first magnet (1231), which is the first electromagnet (1451), is magnetized, an attractive force may be induced between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233). In the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) may be substantially flat. The force may alleviate or eliminate the crease by pulling the first bending portion (1214) of the substantially flat display panel (1210).

[0230] At operation 1507, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to prevent current from being provided from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) based on identifying a state (e.g., a first unfolded state or a first intermediate state) distinct from a first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0231] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may not magnetize the first electromagnet (1451) based on identifying a first folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or a first intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) that is different from the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to not provide current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) (or to refrain from providing current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451)) so as not to magnetize the first electromagnet (1451). For example, the driver integrated circuit (1440) may not provide current provided from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) through the power management circuit (1430) by being controlled by at least one processor (120). For example, the driver integrated circuit (1440) may control the first switch circuit (1461) to electrically disconnect the driver integrated circuit (1440) and the first electromagnet (1451). Since the driver integrated circuit (1440) and the first electromagnet (1451) are electrically disconnected, current cannot be provided from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451), and thus the first electromagnet (1451) may not be magnetized.

[0232] According to one embodiment, since no current is supplied to the first electromagnet (1451), the first electromagnet (1451) cannot be magnetized. If the first electromagnet (1451) is not magnetized, an attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may not be induced. For example, if the first magnet (1231) corresponds to the first electromagnet (1451) and the third magnet (1233) corresponds to a permanent magnet, since the first magnet (1231), which is the first electromagnet (1451), is not magnetized, an attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may not be induced. In the first folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or the first intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (e.g., the first bending portion (1214) of FIG. 12) may be at least partially bent. If a force is generated in the at least partially bent state of the first bending portion (1214), damage to the flexible display (1040) may be caused. In order to prevent or reduce damage to the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (1040) of FIG. 12), the foldable electronic device (1000) may not provide current to the first electromagnet (1451) in the first folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or the first intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0233] After operation 1505, operation 1509 may be performed. In operation 1509, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to determine whether it has identified a state distinct from the first unfolded state (e.g., a first folded state or a first intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000). For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is the first folded state or the first intermediate state, operation 1507 may be performed. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is not a state distinct from the first unfolded state but is the first unfolded state, operation 1505 may be performed again. Here, whether the first folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or the first intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is identified may be referred to as the case where the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is not identified.

[0234] According to one embodiment, when the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is changed from the first unfolded state to the first folded state or the first intermediate state, operation 1507 may be performed. In operation 1507, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) so that current is not provided from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451). Since the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is changed from the first unfolded state to the first folded state or the first intermediate state, the first bending portion (1214) of the display panel (1210) may be at least partially bent. In this case, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to release the magnetization of the first electromagnet (1451) to prevent or reduce damage to the flexible display (1040).

[0235] According to one embodiment, when the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is maintained in the first unfolded state, operation 1505 may be performed. In operation 1505, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to provide current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451). Since the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is maintained in the first unfolded state, the first bending portion (1214) of the display panel (1210) may be substantially flat. In this case, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to maintain the magnetization of the first electromagnet (1451) to reduce and / or eliminate creasing of the first bending portion (1214).

[0236] As described above, the foldable electronic device (1000) may be configured to cause an attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) based on the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000). In the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) of the display panel (1210) may be substantially flat without being bent. As the substantially flat first bending portion (1214) is pulled by the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233), the crease may be eliminated. According to one embodiment, as the crease within the first bending portion (1214) is alleviated and / or eliminated, the quality of visual information displayed through the flexible display (1040) may be enhanced.

[0237] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention to control the supply of current to a second electromagnet.

[0238] The operations of FIG. 16 may be substantially the same as the operations of FIG. 15 if differences according to the magnets to be controlled are controlled. For example, the operations of FIG. 15 are operations for controlling the first electromagnet (1451), which is at least one of the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233), to alleviate and / or eliminate the crease of the first bending portion (1214), and the operations of FIG. 16 are operations for controlling the second electromagnet (1452), which is at least one of the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234), to alleviate and / or eliminate the crease of the second bending portion (1215). The operations of FIG. 16 may be performed independently of the operations of FIG. 15. The operations of FIG. 16 may be referred to as operations caused by the foldable electronic device (1000) when instructions stored in the memory (130) are executed by at least one processor (120).

[0239] Referring to FIG. 16, in operation 1601, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (1000) through the second sensor (1420).

[0240] According to one embodiment, the second sensor (1420) may be configured to provide data representing a state of the foldable electronic device (1000) (e.g., a second unfolded state, a second folded state, and a second intermediate state) to at least one processor (120). For example, the at least one processor (120) may provide data representing angle information between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) to the at least one processor (120). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to receive the data from the second sensor (1420) and identify the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) based on the data. For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) when an angle between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) identified from the data falls within a first angular range (e.g., from about 175 degrees to about 185 degrees). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a second intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) when an angle between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) identified from the data falls within a second angular range (e.g., from about 5 degrees to about 175 degrees). For example, at least one processor (120) may be configured to identify a second folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) when an angle between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) identified from the data falls within a third angle range (e.g., from about 0 degrees to about 5 degrees). The numerical values ​​of the angle ranges described above are merely exemplary, and embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0241] At operation 1603, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to determine whether the foldable electronic device (1000) has identified a second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0242] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may be configured to determine whether a second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is identified in order to determine whether a condition for supplying current to the second electromagnet (1452) is satisfied. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is the second unfolded state, operation 1605 may be performed. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is a state that is distinct from the second unfolded state, operation 1607 may be performed. Here, if the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is a state that is distinct from the second unfolded state, it may be referred to as a case where the second folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or a second intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is identified.

[0243] At operation 1605, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to provide current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) based on identifying a second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0244] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may magnetize the second electromagnet (1452) based on identifying the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to supply current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) for magnetizing the second electromagnet (1452). For example, the driver integrated circuit (1440) may be controlled by the at least one processor (120) to supply current supplied from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) via the power management circuit (1430). For example, the driver integrated circuit (1440) can control the second switch circuit (1462) to electrically connect the driver integrated circuit (1440) and the second electromagnet (1452), and current can be provided from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) through the power management circuit (1430), the driver integrated circuit (1440), and the second switch circuit (1462).

[0245] According to one embodiment, as current is supplied to the second electromagnet (1452), the second electromagnet (1452) may be magnetized. When the second electromagnet (1452) is magnetized, an attractive force may be induced between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234). For example, when the second magnet (1232) corresponds to the second electromagnet (1452) and the fourth magnet (1234) corresponds to a permanent magnet, when the second magnet (1232), which is the second electromagnet (1452), is magnetized, an attractive force may be induced between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234). In the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the second bending portion (1215) may be substantially flat. The above force can relieve or eliminate the crease by pulling the second bending portion (1215) of the substantially flat display panel (1210).

[0246] At operation 1607, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to prevent current from being provided from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) based on identifying a state (e.g., a second unfolded state or a second intermediate state) distinct from the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0247] According to one embodiment, at least one processor (120) may not magnetize the second electromagnet (1452) based on identifying a second folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or a second intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) that is different from the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000). The at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to not provide current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) (or to refrain from providing current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452)) so as not to magnetize the second electromagnet (1452). For example, the driver integrated circuit (1440) may not provide current provided from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) through the power management circuit (1430) by being controlled by at least one processor (120). For example, the driver integrated circuit (1440) may control the second switch circuit (1462) to electrically disconnect the driver integrated circuit (1440) and the second electromagnet (1452). Since the driver integrated circuit (1440) and the second electromagnet (1452) are electrically disconnected, current cannot be provided from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452), and thus the second electromagnet (1452) may not be magnetized.

[0248] According to one embodiment, since no current is supplied to the second electromagnet (1452), the second electromagnet (1452) cannot be magnetized. If the second electromagnet (1452) is not magnetized, an attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may not be induced. For example, if the second magnet (1232) corresponds to the second electromagnet (1452) and the fourth magnet (1234) corresponds to a permanent magnet, since the second magnet (1232), which is the second electromagnet (1452), is not magnetized, an attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may not be induced. In the second folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or the second intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the second bending portion (1215) may be at least partially bent. If a force is generated in the at least partially bent state of the second bending portion (1215), damage to the flexible display (1040) may occur. In order to prevent or reduce damage to the flexible display (1040), the foldable electronic device (1000) may not provide current to the second electromagnet (1452) in the second folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or the second intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0249] After operation 1605, operation 1609 may be performed. In operation 1609, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to determine whether it has identified a state distinct from the second unfolded state (e.g., a second folded state or a second intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000). For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is the second folded state or the second intermediate state, operation 1607 may be performed. For example, if the identified state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is not a state distinct from the second unfolded state but is the second unfolded state, operation 1605 may be performed again. Here, whether the second folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) or the second intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is identified may be referred to as the case where the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is not identified.

[0250] According to one embodiment, when the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is changed from the second unfolded state to the second folded state or the second intermediate state, operation 1607 may be performed. In operation 1607, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) so that current is not provided from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452). Since the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is changed from the second unfolded state to the second folded state or the second intermediate state, the second bending portion (1215) of the display panel (1210) may be at least partially bent. In this case, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to demagnetize the second electromagnet (1452) to prevent or reduce damage to the flexible display (1040).

[0251] According to one embodiment, when the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is maintained in the second unfolded state, operation 1605 may be performed. In operation 1605, at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to provide current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452). Since the state of the foldable electronic device (1000) is maintained in the second unfolded state, the second bending portion (1215) of the display panel (1210) may be substantially flat. In this case, the at least one processor (120) may be configured to maintain the magnetization of the second electromagnet (1452) to reduce and / or eliminate creasing of the second bending portion (1215).

[0252] As described above, the foldable electronic device (1000) may be configured to cause an attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) based on the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000). In the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the second bending portion (1215) of the display panel (1210) may be substantially flat without being bent. As the substantially flat second bending portion (1215) is pulled by the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234), the crease may be eliminated. According to one embodiment, as the crease within the second bending portion (1215) is alleviated and / or eliminated, the quality of visual information displayed through the flexible display (1040) may be enhanced.

[0253] FIGS. 17, 18, and 19 illustrate folding and unfolding operations of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments.

[0254] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 17, 18, and 19, the structures of the foldable housing (1001) may be different from each other. For example, the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18 may be distinguished depending on whether the housing part in which the main processor (e.g., application processor (AP)) is arranged is the first housing part (1010) or the second housing part (1020). For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 19, unlike the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18, the rotational direction of the first housing part (1010) with respect to the second housing part (1020) and the rotational direction of the third housing part (1030) may be the same.

[0255] Referring to FIG. 17, in a first state in which the housing parts of the foldable housing (1001) are completely folded, the first housing part (1010) may be positioned between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030). In the first state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (e.g., the first bending portion (1214) of FIG. 12) and the second bending portion (e.g., the second bending portion (1215) of FIG. 12) may be bent. In the first state of the foldable electronic device (1000), both the first electromagnet (e.g., the first electromagnet (1451) of FIG. 14) and the second electromagnet (e.g., the second electromagnet (1452) of FIG. 14) may not be magnetized. In the first state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the attractive force between the first magnet (e.g., the first magnet (1231) of FIG. 12) and the third magnet (e.g., the third magnet (1233) of FIG. 12) and the attractive force between the second magnet (e.g., the second magnet (1232) of FIG. 12) and the fourth magnet (e.g., the fourth magnet (1234) of FIG. 12)) may not be induced. The first state may correspond to the first folded state and the second folded state described above.

[0256] According to one embodiment, in the foldable electronic device (1000) in the first state, when the third housing part (1030) is rotated in a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) with respect to the second housing part (1020), the foldable electronic device (1000) may change from the first state to the second state. According to one embodiment, within the second state, the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) may be arranged parallel to each other, and the first housing part (1010) may be positioned above the second housing part (1020) (e.g., in the +z direction). Within the second state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) may be bent, and the second bending portion (1215) may be flat. In the first state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first electromagnet (1451) may not be magnetized, and the second electromagnet (1452) may be magnetized. In the second state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may not be induced, and the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be induced. The attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may alleviate and / or eliminate the crease within the second bending portion (1215). The second state may correspond to the first folded state and the second unfolded state described above.

[0257] According to one embodiment, in the foldable electronic device (1000) in the second state, when the first housing part (1010) is rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction with respect to the second housing part (1020), the foldable electronic device (1000) may change from the second state to a third state. Within the third state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) and the second bending portion (1215) may be flat. Within the third state of the foldable electronic device (1000), both the first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) may be magnetized. In the third state of the foldable electronic device (1000), an attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) and an attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be induced. By the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233), a crease in the first bending portion (1214) may be alleviated and / or eliminated. By the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234), a crease in the second bending portion (1215) may be alleviated and / or eliminated. The first state may correspond to the first unfolded state and the second unfolded state described above.

[0258] A user may use the foldable electronic device (1000) in various states other than the first state, the second state, and the third state. The foldable electronic device (1000) may be configured to control whether the first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) are magnetized based on the state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0259] For example, a user may use the foldable electronic device (1000) in a state in which the first housing part (1010) is rotated relative to the second housing part (1020). For example, the state may be a state in which an angle between the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) is within a second angular range (e.g., from about 5 degrees to about 175 degrees), and an angle between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) is within a first angular range (e.g., from about 175 degrees to about 185 degrees). The state may correspond to a first intermediate state and a first unfolded state. In the state, the first bending portion (1214) may be bent, and the second bending portion (1215) may be flat. As described above, at least one processor (120) may identify a first intermediate state via the first sensor (1410) and not magnetize the first electromagnet (1451). At least one processor (120) may identify a second unfolded state via the second sensor (1420) and magnetize the second electromagnet (1452). Within the state, the crease within the first bending portion (1214) may be alleviated and / or eliminated.

[0260] For example, a user may use the foldable electronic device (1000) in a state in which the third housing part (1030) is rotated relative to the second housing part (1020). For example, the state may be a state in which an angle between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) may be within a second angular range (e.g., from about 5 degrees to about 175 degrees), and an angle between the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) may be within a first angular range (e.g., from about 175 degrees to about 185 degrees). The state may correspond to a first unfolded state and a first intermediate state. In the state, the first bending portion (1214) may be flat, and the second bending portion (1215) may be bent. As described above, at least one processor (120) can identify a first unfolded state via the first sensor (1410) and magnetize the first electromagnet (1451). At least one processor (120) can identify a second intermediate state via the second sensor (1420) and not magnetize the second electromagnet (1452). Within the state, the crease within the second bending portion (1215) can be alleviated and / or eliminated.

[0261] Referring to FIG. 18, in a first state in which the housing parts of the foldable housing (1001) are completely folded, the first housing part (1010) may be positioned between the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030). In the first state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) and the second bending portion (1215) may be bent. In the first state of the foldable electronic device (1000), both the first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) may not be magnetized. In the first state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) and the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may not be induced. The first state may correspond to the first folding state and the second folding state described above.

[0262] According to one embodiment, in the foldable electronic device (1000) in the first state, when the third housing part (1030) is rotated in a first rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) with respect to the second housing part (1020), the foldable electronic device (1000) may change from the first state to the second state. According to one embodiment, within the second state, the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) may be arranged parallel to each other, and the first housing part (1010) may be positioned above the second housing part (1020) (e.g., in the +z direction). Within the second state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) may be bent, and the second bending portion (1215) may be flat. In the first state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first electromagnet (1451) may not be magnetized, and the second electromagnet (1452) may be magnetized. In the second state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may not be induced, and the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be induced. The attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may alleviate and / or eliminate the crease within the second bending portion (1215). The second state may correspond to the first folded state and the second unfolded state described above.

[0263] According to one embodiment, in the foldable electronic device (1000) in the second state, when the first housing part (1010) is rotated in a second rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction with respect to the second housing part (1020), the foldable electronic device (1000) may change from the second state to a third state. Within the third state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) and the second bending portion (1215) may be flat. Within the third state of the foldable electronic device (1000), both the first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) may be magnetized. In the third state of the foldable electronic device (1000), an attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) and an attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be induced. By the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233), a crease in the first bending portion (1214) may be alleviated and / or eliminated. By the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234), a crease in the second bending portion (1215) may be alleviated and / or eliminated. The first state may correspond to the first unfolded state and the second unfolded state described above.

[0264] Referring to FIG. 19, in a folded state in which the housing parts of the foldable housing (1001) are completely covered, the second housing part (1020) may be positioned between the first housing part (1010) and the third housing part (1030). The first hinge assembly (1050) and the second hinge assembly (1060) may have substantially the same width. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) and the second bending portion (1215) may be bent. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), both the first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) may not be magnetized. In the folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) and the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may not be induced. The folded state may correspond to the first folded state and the second folded state described above.

[0265] According to one embodiment, in the foldable electronic device (1000) in the first state, the first housing part (1010) can be rotated in a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) with respect to the second housing part (1020), and the third housing part (1030) can be rotated in the first rotational direction with respect to the second housing part (1020). By the rotation of the first housing part (1010) and the third housing part (1030), the foldable electronic device (1000) can be changed from a folded state to an unfolded state. In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), the first bending portion (1214) and the second bending portion (1215) can be flat. In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000), both the first electromagnet (1451) and the second electromagnet (1452) can be magnetized. In the third state of the foldable electronic device (1000), an attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) and an attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be induced. By the attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233), a crease in the first bending portion (1214) may be alleviated and / or eliminated. By the attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234), a crease in the second bending portion (1215) may be alleviated and / or eliminated. The first state may correspond to the first unfolded state and the second unfolded state described above.

[0266] A foldable electronic device (200) is provided. The foldable electronic device (200) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (200) may include a hinge assembly (250) including hinge plates (252, 253) that rotatably connect the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). Each of the hinge plates (252, 253) may include a first magnet (330). The foldable electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (230). The flexible display (230) may include a display panel (310) including a first planar portion (311), a second planar portion (312), and a bending portion (313) positioned between the first planar portion (311) and the second planar portion (312) and configured to bend by rotation of the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The flexible display (230) may include a support plate (320) disposed under the display panel (310) to support the display panel (310). The support plate (320) may include a first portion (321) disposed below the first flat portion (311) of the display panel (310), a second portion (322) disposed below the second flat portion (312) of the display panel (310), and a third portion (323) disposed below the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310) and including a plurality of slits (324). The flexible display (230) may include a second magnet (340) that overlaps the bending portion (313) and the third portion (323) and is paired with the first magnet (330).The attractive force between the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340) can be generated based on the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0267] According to one embodiment, the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) may be a state in which an angle between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) is within a specified angle range. In the unfolded state, the angle between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be such that a flat portion of the display is substantially flush with the ground. In the unfolded state, the angle between the first housing part and the second housing part may be 180 degrees. In the unfolded state, the angle between the first housing part and the second housing part may be between 175 degrees and 185 degrees. In the unfolded state, the display panel may be substantially flat. In the unfolded state, the display panel may be substantially flat, except for one or more wrinkles.

[0268] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include a battery (189). The foldable electronic device (200) may further include a sensor (410) for identifying the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200), the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200), and an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200) between the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) and the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200). The foldable electronic device (200) may further include a memory (130) including one or more storage media for storing instructions. The foldable electronic device (200) may further include at least one processor (120) including a processing circuit. At least one of the first magnet (330) or the second magnet (340) may be an electromagnet (440) electrically connected to the battery (189). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to identify a state of the foldable electronic device (200) through the sensor (410). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control whether to supply current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) based on the identified state of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0269] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include a driver integrated circuit (430) configured to control the supply of current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to identify the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) through the sensor (410). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to supply current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) based on identifying the unfolded state. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to identify the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) through the sensor (410). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to refrain from supplying current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) based on identifying the folded state or the intermediate state.

[0270] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include a flexible printed circuit board (810) configured to electrically connect the battery (189) and the electromagnet (440). The current provided from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) may be supplied from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440) through the flexible printed circuit board (810).

[0271] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a protective film (303) disposed between the display panel (310) and the support plate (320). The second magnet (340) may be disposed between the protective film (303) and the third portion (323) of the support plate (320).

[0272] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include an adhesive layer (304) disposed between the protective film (303) and the first portion (321) of the support plate (320) and between the protective film (303) and the second portion (322) of the support plate (320), and positioned substantially on the same plane as the second magnet (340). A first thickness of the adhesive layer (304) may correspond to a second thickness of the second magnet (340).

[0273] According to one embodiment, the second magnet (340) may be positioned below the third portion (323) of the support plate (320).

[0274] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include a cushion (305) disposed below the third portion (323) of the support plate (320) and overlapping the first magnet (330) and the second magnet (340).

[0275] According to one embodiment, the second magnet (340) may be placed within the third portion (323) of the support plate (320).

[0276] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may include a support bar (255) positioned below the third portion (323) of the support plate (320) so as to overlap with the bending portion (313) of the display panel (310). The support bar (255) may include the first magnet (330).

[0277] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may further include a third housing part (1030). The foldable electronic device (200) may further include another hinge assembly (1060) including other hinge plates (1162, 1163) that rotatably connect the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1030). Each of the other hinge plates (1162, 1163) may include a second magnet (1232). The display panel (310) may further include a third flat portion (1213) and another bending portion (1215) positioned between the second flat portion (312) and the third flat portion (1213) and configured to be bent by rotation of the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1030). The support plate (320) may further include a fourth portion (1227) disposed below the third flat portion (1213) of the display panel (310) and a fifth portion (1222) disposed below the other bending portion (1215) of the display panel (310) and including a plurality of other slits (1224). The flexible display (230) may further include a fourth magnet (1234) disposed below the other bending portion (1215) and paired with the third magnet (1232).

[0278] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include a battery (189). The foldable electronic device (200) may further include a first sensor (410) for identifying a first folded state in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are folded and a first unfolded state in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are unfolded. The foldable electronic device (200) may further include a second sensor (410) for identifying a second folded state in which the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1030) are folded and a second unfolded state in which the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1030) are unfolded. The foldable electronic device (200) may further include a memory (130) including one or more storage media for storing instructions. The foldable electronic device (200) may further include at least one processor (120) including a processing circuit. At least one of the first magnet (330) or the second magnet (340) may be a first electromagnet (1451) electrically connected to the battery (189). At least one of the second magnet (1232) or the fourth magnet (1234) may be a second electromagnet (1452) electrically connected to the battery (189). The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control whether to supply current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) based on the first unfolded state identified through the first sensor (410).The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control whether to supply current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) based on the second unfolded state identified through the second sensor (410).

[0279] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include a battery (189). The foldable electronic device (200) may further include a driver integrated circuit (430) configured to control the supply of current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to identify the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) through the first sensor (410). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to provide current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) based on identifying the first unfolded state. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to identify, through the sensor (410), a state of the foldable electronic device (200) that is distinct from the first unfolded state. The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to refrain from providing current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) based on identifying a state distinct from the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0280] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include a driver integrated circuit (430) configured to control the supply of current from the battery (189) to the electromagnet (440). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to identify the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200) through the second sensor (410). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to provide current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) based on identifying the second unfolded state. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to identify, through the sensor (410), a state distinct from the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (200) to control the driver integrated circuit (430) to refrain from providing current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) based on identifying a state distinct from the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0281] A foldable electronic device (1000) is provided. The foldable electronic device (1000) may include a foldable housing (1001) including a first housing part (1010), a second housing part (1020), and a third housing part (1030). The foldable electronic device (1000) may include a first hinge assembly (1050) including first hinge plates (1152, 1153) rotatably connecting the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020). Each of the first hinge plates (1152, 1153) may include a first magnet (1231). The foldable electronic device (1000) may include a second hinge assembly (1060) including second hinge plates (1162, 1163) that rotatably connect the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030). Each of the second hinge plates (1162, 1163) may include a second magnet (1232). The foldable electronic device (1000) may include a flexible display (1040). The flexible display (1040) may include a display panel (1210) including a first bending portion (1214) configured to bend by rotation of the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020), and a second bending portion (1215) configured to bend by rotation of the second housing part (1020) and the second housing part (1020). The flexible display (1040) may include a support plate (1220) disposed under the display panel (1210) to support the display panel (1210).The support plate (1220) may include a first portion (1221) disposed below the first bending portion (1214) and including a plurality of first slits (1223), and a second portion (1222) disposed below the second bending portion (1215) and including a plurality of second slits (1224). The flexible display (1040) may include a third magnet (1233) disposed between the first bending portion (1214) and the first portion (1221) and overlapping the first magnet (1231). The flexible display (1040) may include a fourth magnet (1234) disposed between the second bending portion (1215) and the second portion (1222) and overlapping the second magnet (1232). The attractive force between the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may be caused based on a first unfolded state in which the first housing part (1010) and the second housing part (1020) are unfolded from each other. The attractive force between the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be caused based on a second unfolded state in which the second housing part (1020) and the third housing part (1030) are unfolded from each other.

[0282] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1000) may further include a battery (189). The foldable electronic device (1000) may further include a first sensor (1410) for identifying the first unfolded state. The foldable electronic device (1000) may further include a second sensor (1420) for identifying the second unfolded state. The foldable electronic device (1000) may further include a memory (130) including one or more storage media for storing instructions. The foldable electronic device (1000) may further include at least one processor (120) including a processing circuit. At least one of the first magnet (1231) and the third magnet (1233) may be a first electromagnet (1451) electrically connected to the battery (189). At least one of the second magnet (1232) and the fourth magnet (1234) may be a second electromagnet (1452) electrically connected to the battery (189). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control whether to supply current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) based on the first unfolded state identified by the first sensor (1410). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control whether to supply current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) based on the second unfolded state identified by the second sensor (1420).

[0283] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1000) may further include a driver integrated circuit (1440) configured to control the supply of current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to identify the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) through the first sensor (1410). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to provide current from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) based on identifying the first unfolded state. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to identify, through the first sensor (1410), a state distinct from the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) so that current is not provided from the battery (189) to the first electromagnet (1451) based on identifying the state distinct from the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000).

[0284] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1000) may further include a driver integrated circuit (1440) configured to control the supply of current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to identify the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) through the second sensor (1420). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) to provide current from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) based on identifying the second unfolded state. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to identify the second folded state of the foldable electronic device (1000) through the sensor (410). The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (120), may cause the foldable electronic device (1000) to control the driver integrated circuit (1440) so that current is not provided from the battery (189) to the second electromagnet (1452) based on identifying the second folded state.

[0285] According to one embodiment, the third magnet (1233) may be disposed between the first bending portion (1214) of the display panel (1210) and the first portion (1221) of the support plate (1220). The fourth magnet (1234) may be disposed between the second bending portion (1215) of the display panel (1210) and the second portion (1222) of the support plate (1220).

[0286] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include: a foldable housing including a first housing part and a second housing part; a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part, the hinge assembly including at least one first magnet; and a flexible display including a display panel. The display panel includes a first planar portion, a second planar portion, and a bending portion, wherein the bending portion is disposed between the first planar portion and the second planar portion. The bending portion is configured to bend by rotation of the first housing part relative to the second housing part. The flexible display further includes a support plate disposed under at least the bending portion of the display panel, the support plate including at least one second magnet. The at least one first magnet and the at least one second magnet are configured such that an attractive force is exerted between the at least one first magnet and the at least one second magnet when the bending portion of the display panel is in an unfolded state.

[0287] At least one first magnet and at least one second magnet may be configured such that an attractive force between the at least one first magnet and the at least one second magnet when the bending portion of the display panel is in a folded state is reduced compared to an attractive force between the at least one first magnet and the at least one second magnet when the display panel is in an unfolded state.

[0288] The hinge assembly may be configured such that the second magnet and the first magnet are separated by a first distance when the bending portion of the display panel is in an unfolded state, and the hinge assembly may be further configured such that the second magnet and the first magnet are separated by a second distance when the bending portion of the display panel is in a folded state, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance.

[0289] In the unfolded state, the bending portion may be substantially flat. In the folded state, the bending portion of the display panel may be bent, for example, such that the first flat portion of the display panel faces the second flat portion of the display panel.

[0290] The first magnet and / or the second magnet may include an electromagnet, and the foldable electronic device may include a processor configured to supply current to the electromagnet when the bend portion of the display panel is in an unfolded state, wherein the electromagnet generates a magnetic field.

[0291] The support plate may be attached to the bending portion. The support plate may be bonded, glued or joined to the bending portion.

[0292] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0293] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0294] 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).

[0295] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (120) (e.g., the processor (120)) of a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0296] 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 temporarily stored or temporarily created in a device-readable storage medium, such as a memory (130) of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0297] 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.

[0298] It will be appreciated that all of the embodiments and their technical features described above can be combined with each other in any and all combinations, as long as there is no conflict between the two embodiments or features. That is, each and every combination of two or more of the embodiments described above is envisioned and encompassed by this disclosure. One or more features of any embodiment can be incorporated into another embodiment, providing a corresponding advantage or advantages.

Claims

1. In foldable electronic devices, A foldable housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part; A hinge assembly including hinge plates rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part, each of the hinge plates including a first magnet; and A flexible display, wherein the flexible display comprises: A display panel comprising a first planar portion, a second planar portion, and a bending portion positioned between the first planar portion and the second planar portion and configured to bend by rotation of the first housing part and the second housing part. A support plate including a first portion disposed under the display panel to support the display panel, a second portion disposed under the second flat portion of the display panel, and a third portion disposed under the bending portion of the display panel and including a plurality of slits, and A second magnet overlapping the above bending portion and the third portion and paired with the first magnet, The attractive force between the first magnet and the second magnet is Based on the unfolded state of the above foldable electronic device, Foldable electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, The unfolded state of the above foldable electronic device is, The angle between the first housing part and the second housing part is within a specified angle range, Foldable electronic devices.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, battery; A sensor for identifying the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device, the folded state of the foldable electronic device, and an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device between the folded state of the foldable electronic device and the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device; A memory including one or more storage media for storing instructions; and further comprising at least one processor comprising a processing circuit, At least one of the first magnet or the second magnet, Corresponds to an electromagnet electrically connected to the above battery, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the foldable electronic device to: Through the above sensor, the status of the foldable electronic device is identified, Based on the state of the identified foldable electronic device, causing control over whether or not to supply current from the battery to the electromagnet, Foldable electronic devices.

4. In paragraph 3, Further comprising a driver integrated circuit configured to control the supply of current from the battery to the electromagnet, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the foldable electronic device to: Through the above sensor, the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device is identified, Based on identifying the unfolding state, controlling the driver integrated circuit to supply current from the battery to the electromagnet, Through the above sensor, the folded state or the intermediate state of the foldable electronic device is identified, Controlling the driver integrated circuit to refrain from supplying current from the battery to the electromagnet based on identifying the folded state or the intermediate state, Foldable electronic devices.

5. In paragraph 4, Further comprising a flexible printed circuit board configured to electrically connect the battery and the electromagnet, The current provided from the battery to the electromagnet is From the above battery, through the above flexible printed circuit board, supplied to the above electromagnet, Foldable electronic devices.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above flexible display, Including a protective film disposed between the display panel and the support plate, The above second magnet is, Positioned between the protective film and the third part of the support plate, Foldable electronic devices.

7. In paragraph 6, The above flexible display, An adhesive layer disposed between the protective film and the first portion of the support plate and between the protective film and the second portion of the support plate, and positioned substantially on the same plane as the second magnet, The first thickness of the above adhesive layer is: Corresponding to the second thickness of the second magnet, Foldable electronic devices.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above second magnet is, Positioned below the third portion of the above support plate, Foldable electronic devices.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, Further comprising a cushion disposed under the third portion of the support plate and overlapping the first magnet and the second magnet. Foldable electronic devices.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above second magnet is, placed within the third portion of the above support plate, Foldable electronic devices.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The above hinge assembly, Including a support bar disposed under the third portion of the support plate so as to overlap with the bending portion of the display panel, The above support bar is, including the first magnet, Foldable electronic devices.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The above foldable housing, Including a third housing part, The above foldable electronic device, Further comprising another hinge assembly including other hinge plates rotatably connecting the second housing part and the third housing part, Each of the above other hinge plates includes a third magnet, The above display panel, Further comprising a third plane portion and another bending portion positioned between the second plane portion and the third plane portion, and configured to bend by rotation of the second housing part and the third housing part; The above support plate, Further comprising a fourth portion disposed below the third flat portion of the display panel and a fifth portion disposed below the other bending portion of the display panel and including a plurality of other slits, The above flexible display, further comprising a fourth magnet disposed below the other bending portion and paired with the third magnet; Foldable electronic devices.

13. In paragraph 12, battery; A first sensor for identifying a first unfolded state in which the first housing part and the second housing part are unfolded; A second sensor for identifying a second unfolding state in which the second housing part and the third housing part are unfolded; A memory including one or more storage media for storing instructions; and further comprising at least one processor comprising a processing circuit, At least one of the first magnet or the second magnet, Corresponds to the first electromagnet electrically connected to the above battery, At least one of the third magnet or the fourth magnet, Corresponds to the second electromagnet electrically connected to the above battery, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the foldable electronic device to: Based on the first unfolding state identified through the first sensor, controlling whether to supply current from the battery to the first electromagnet, Based on the second unfolding state identified through the second sensor, causing to control whether or not to supply current from the battery to the second electromagnet, Foldable electronic devices.

14. In paragraph 13, Further comprising a driver integrated circuit configured to control the supply of current from the battery to the first electromagnet and the second electromagnet, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the foldable electronic device to: Through the first sensor, the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device is identified, Based on identifying the first unfolding state, controlling the driver integrated circuit to provide current from the battery to the first electromagnet, Through the above sensor, a state distinct from the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device is identified, Controlling the driver integrated circuit to refrain from providing current from the battery to the first electromagnet based on identifying a state distinct from the first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device; Foldable electronic devices.

15. In paragraph 13 or 14, Further comprising a driver integrated circuit configured to control the supply of current from the battery to the electromagnet, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the foldable electronic device to: Through the second sensor, the second unfolding state of the foldable electronic device is identified, Based on identifying the second unfolding state, controlling the driver integrated circuit to provide current from the battery to the second electromagnet, Through the above sensor, a state distinct from the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device is identified, Controlling the driver integrated circuit to refrain from providing current from the battery to the second electromagnet based on identifying a state distinct from the second unfolded state of the foldable electronic device; Foldable electronic devices.

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