Electronic device and driving method thereof

Abstract

An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a first battery; a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery; a first power conversion circuit including a switching converter and a first switching element, which is arranged between a first output node connected to an output terminal of the switching converter and the first battery; a second power conversion circuit; a first flexible circuit board arranged between the first output node and a second battery node connected to the second battery; a first current limiting circuit arranged between the first flexible circuit board and the second battery node; and a processor, wherein, in response to a first trigger, the first switching element is controlled such that a first battery current flowing from the first output node to a first battery node connected to the first battery is lowered and, in response to a second trigger, the first current limiting circuit is controlled such that a second battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery node is lowered.

Description

Electronic device and method of driving the same

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an electronic device and a method of driving the same.

[0002] An electronic device (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet PC) can receive power from another electronic device (a power supply device (e.g., a power adapter)) via a wired cable (e.g., a USB cable) and charge a battery mounted on the electronic device using the received power. The electronic device can supply power from the battery or power received from the power supply device via the USB cable to a system (in other words, a load circuit) of the electronic device. The system is a general term for electronic components mounted on the electronic device that are driven using the supplied power, and may include, for example, a display, a processor, a speaker, a communication circuit, and a memory. The system can perform a given operation using the supplied power.

[0003] Foldable electronic devices are expected to be next-generation electronic devices that can increase the display area when unfolded, while reducing the volume when folded, thereby enhancing user convenience. The foldable electronic device may include a first housing and a second housing that are arranged to face each other when folded, and the display may include a first region corresponding to the first housing, a second region corresponding to the second housing, and a folding region formed between the first region and the second region.

[0004] In an electronic device, a power conversion circuit (or, alternatively, a charging circuit) can receive power through a power terminal (e.g., a VBUS pin) of a connector mounted on the electronic device. The power conversion circuit can convert and output current and / or voltage values ​​from the power input from the power terminal through the input terminal of the power conversion circuit. A battery and a system can share the output terminal of the power conversion circuit. For example, a battery and a system can receive power from a power conversion circuit through the output terminal of the power conversion circuit. The system can receive power from a battery through the output terminal of the power conversion circuit.

[0005] A current limiting circuit may be positioned between the battery and the output terminal of the power conversion circuit. The current limiting circuit can prevent power from being supplied (charged) to the battery or from being discharged from the battery. For example, the current limiting circuit can block the charging path from the output terminal to the battery when the voltage at the output terminal (e.g., the voltage input to the system terminal (Vsys)) exceeds a threshold value (e.g., 4.8 V).

[0006] A foldable electronic device may include multiple batteries, for example, a first battery disposed in a first housing and a second battery disposed in a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a current limiting circuit, one for each battery, to control current flow. If a single current limiting circuit is applied to each battery, heat generation may increase during the charging and discharging process of the battery, and the structure may become more complex.

[0007] 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.

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure can provide an electronic device and a driving method thereof that can reduce heat generation during the charging and discharging process of a battery and have a simple structure.

[0009] The technical problems to be achieved in the present disclosure are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention pertains from the description below.

[0010] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first power conversion circuit including a first battery, a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery, a switching converter, and a first switching element disposed between a first output node connected to an output terminal of the switching converter and the first battery, a second power conversion circuit for increasing a current input from an external device by a specified ratio and outputting it, and for decreasing a voltage input from the external device by the specified ratio and outputting it, a first flexible circuit board disposed between the first output node and a second battery node connected to the second battery, a first current limiting circuit disposed between the first flexible circuit board and the second battery node, a processor, and a memory storing instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: in response to a first trigger, control the first switching element to reduce a first battery current flowing from the first output node to a first battery node connected to the first battery, and in response to a second trigger, control the first current limiting circuit to reduce a first battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery. It can be controlled to lower the second battery current flowing to the node.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a driving method of an electronic device includes a first power conversion circuit including a first battery, a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery, a switching converter, and a first switching element disposed between a first output node connected to an output terminal of the switching converter and the first battery, a second power conversion circuit that increases a current input from an external device by a specified ratio and outputs it, and decreases a voltage input from the external device by the specified ratio and outputs it, a first flexible circuit board disposed between the first output node and a second battery node connected to the second battery, and a first current limiting circuit disposed between the first flexible circuit board and the second battery node, and the driving method of the electronic device may include an operation of controlling, in response to a first trigger, the first switching element to decrease a first battery current flowing from the first output node to the first battery node connected to the first battery, and an operation of controlling, in response to a second trigger, the first current limiting circuit to decrease a second battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery node. there is.

[0012] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, heat generation during the charging and discharging process of a battery can be reduced, and the structure can be simplified.

[0013] In addition, various effects may be provided, either directly or indirectly, through this document.

[0014] Other aspects, features and advantages according to specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the accompanying drawings and the corresponding description.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a fully unfolded state of a multi-foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an intermediate state of a multi-foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a fully folded state of a multi-foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a flat state or unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating the front of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a plan view illustrating the rear surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a folded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating an intermediate state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment in which a current limiting circuit is built into a battery pack.

[0027] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment in which a current limiting circuit is not arranged between the output terminal of the first power conversion circuit and the first battery.

[0028] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating the inside of a first power conversion circuit according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 15 is an exemplary diagram showing a second power conversion circuit connected to a second battery according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 16 is an exemplary diagram showing a second power conversion circuit connected between an output terminal of a first power conversion circuit and a first battery according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment including a first battery, a second battery, and a third battery.

[0032] FIG. 18 is an exemplary diagram illustrating various nodes to which a second power conversion circuit according to one embodiment may be connected.

[0033] FIG. 19 is an exemplary diagram illustrating various nodes to which a second power conversion circuit according to one embodiment may be connected.

[0034] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment in which a second battery and a third battery are connected via a flexible circuit board.

[0035] Fig. 21 is a waveform diagram showing the operation of a first switching element according to one embodiment.

[0036] Each of the embodiments described with reference to the drawings of this disclosure can be independently configured as a single embodiment. For example, the embodiments of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 can each be independently configured. Each of the embodiments described with reference to the drawings of this disclosure can operate independently as a single embodiment. For example, the embodiments of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 can each operate independently.

[0037] At least two embodiments described with reference to the drawings of the present disclosure may be combined and configured. For example, at least a portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1 and at least a portion of the embodiment of FIG. 2 may be combined and configured. At least two embodiments described with reference to the drawings of the present disclosure may be combined and operated. For example, at least a portion of the embodiment of FIG. 1 and at least a portion of the embodiment of FIG. 2 may be combined and operated.

[0038] When at least two embodiments described with reference to the drawings of the present disclosure are combined, at least some of the components and / or at least some of the operations included in each embodiment may be omitted. For example, when the embodiment of FIG. 1 and the embodiment of FIG. 2 are combined, at least some of the components and / or at least some of the operations included in the embodiment of FIG. 1 may be omitted, and at least some of the components and / or at least some of the operations included in the embodiment of FIG. 2 may be omitted.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the 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)).

[0040] 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.

[0041] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] A 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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).

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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).

[0058] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to 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.

[0059] 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)).

[0060] 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.

[0061] Electronic devices according to various embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0062] The various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure 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 the present disclosure, 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 the 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.

[0063] The term "module" used in various embodiments of the present disclosure 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, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0064] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more commands stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one command among the one or more commands 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 command called. The one or more commands 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.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0066] 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.

[0067] FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 are diagrams illustrating operating states of a multi-foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates a fully unfolded state of a multi-foldable electronic device (101). For example, FIG. 3 illustrates an intermediate state of a multi-foldable electronic device (101). For example, FIG. 4 illustrates a fully folded state of a multi-foldable electronic device (101).

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, and 4, the multi-foldable electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220) rotatably connected to the first housing (210) in a direction (e.g., in the x-axis direction) toward one side (e.g., right) of the first housing (210) with respect to a first folding axis (F1), and a third housing (230) rotatably connected to the first housing (210) in a direction (e.g., in the -x-axis direction) toward the other side (e.g., left) of the first housing (210) with respect to a second folding axis (F2). In one embodiment, the multi-foldable electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (240) arranged to be supported by at least a portion of the first, second, and third housings (210, 220, 230). In one embodiment, the multi-foldable electronic device (101) may include a sub-display (250) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0069] According to various embodiments, in a multi-foldable electronic device (101), in a fully unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the first side (211) of the first housing (210), the third side (221) of the second housing (220), and the fifth side (231) of the third housing (230) face in the same direction (e.g., the z-axis direction of FIG. 2), and the entire area of ​​the flexible display (240) can be used.

[0070] According to various embodiments, the multi-foldable electronic device (101) may be in an intermediate state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded in an in-folding manner, so that the first surface (211) of the first housing (210) and the third surface (221) of the second housing (220) may face each other. In this case, the flexible display (240) may be exposed so that only the area corresponding to the third housing (230) is visible from the outside.

[0071] According to various embodiments, when the multi-foldable electronic device (101) transitions from an intermediate state to a fully folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the third housing (230) may be folded in an infolding manner so that the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220) at least partially overlaps the second housing (220), so that the fifth side (231) of the third housing (230) may face the fourth side (222) of the third housing (230). In this case, the flexible display (240) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230), so that it may not be visible from the outside. In one embodiment, the multi-foldable electronic device (101) may help improve portability by having the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) sequentially stacked in a folded state.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the multi-foldable electronic device (101) may be arranged so that, in a folded state, the second side (212) of the first housing (210) and the sixth side (232) of the third housing (230) are visible from the outside. Accordingly, the sub-display (250) may also be arranged so that it is visible from the outside through the sixth side (232) of the third housing (230).

[0073] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an electronic device (101) in a flat state (or unfolding state) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a plan view illustrating a front side of an electronic device (101) in a flat state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a plan view illustrating a rear side of an electronic device (101) in a unfolding state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an electronic device (101) in a folded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an electronic device (101) in an intermediate state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0074] The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 5 to 9 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 9, an electronic device (101) (e.g., a portable communication device) may include a pair of housings (310, 320) (e.g., a foldable housing) that are rotatably coupled to face each other and foldable based on a hinge structure (e.g., a hinge device or a hinge module) of FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the hinge structure (340) may be arranged in the x-axis direction or the y-axis direction. In some embodiments, two or more hinge structures (340) may be arranged to fold in the same direction or in different directions. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first display (330) (e.g., a flexible display) arranged in an area formed by a pair of housings (310, 320). In one embodiment, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may be foldable. It may be arranged on both sides with respect to the axis (F) and may have a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (F). In one embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may vary depending on whether the state of the electronic device (101) is a flat state (or unfolding state), a folding state, or an intermediate state.

[0076] According to various embodiments, a pair of housings (310, 320) may include a first housing (310) (e.g., a first housing structure) coupled with a hinge structure (340) and a second housing (320) (e.g., a second housing structure) coupled with the hinge structure (340). In one embodiment, the first housing (310) may include, in an unfolded state, a first surface (311) (e.g., a front surface) facing in a front direction (e.g., a z-axis direction) and a second surface (312) (e.g., a rear surface) facing in a rear direction (e.g., a -z-axis direction) opposite to the first surface (311). In one embodiment, the second housing (320) may include a third surface (321) (e.g., front) facing the front direction (e.g., z-axis direction) and a fourth surface (322) (e.g., rear) facing the rear direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) in the unfolded state. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be operated in such a manner that, in the unfolded state, the first surface (311) of the first housing (310) and the third surface (321) of the second housing (320) face substantially the same first direction (e.g., z-axis direction), and in the folded state, the first surface (311) and the third surface (321) face each other. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be operated such that, in an unfolded state, the second side (312) of the first housing (310) and the fourth side (322) of the second housing (320) face substantially the same second direction (e.g., the -z-axis direction), and in a folded state, the second side (312) and the fourth side (322) face opposite directions. For example, in a folded state, the second side (312) may face the first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction), and the fourth side (322) may face the second direction (e.g., the -z-axis direction).

[0077] According to various embodiments, the first housing (310) may include a first side member (313) that at least partially forms an exterior of the electronic device (101) and a first rear cover (314) that is coupled to the first side member (313) and forms at least a portion of a second side (312) of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the first side member (313) may include a first side surface (313a), a second side surface (313b) that extends from one end of the first side surface (313a), and a third side surface (313c) that extends from the other end of the first side surface (313a). In one embodiment, the first side member (313) may be formed into a rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape through the first side surface (313a), the second side surface (313b), and the third side surface (313c).

[0078] According to various embodiments, the second housing (320) may include a second side member (323) that at least partially forms an exterior of the electronic device (101) and a second rear cover (324) that is coupled to the second side member (323) and forms at least a portion of a fourth side (322) of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the second side member (323) may include a fourth side member (323a), a fifth side member (323b) that extends from one end of the fourth side member (323a), and a sixth side member (323c) that extends from the other end of the fourth side member (323a). In one embodiment, the second side member (323) may be formed into a rectangular shape through the fourth side member (323a), the fifth side member (323b), and the sixth side member (323c). In one embodiment, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may be configured as a foldable housing (e.g., a foldable housing structure or a housing structure).

[0079] According to various embodiments, the pair of housings (310, 320) are not limited to the illustrated shapes and combinations, and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts. For example, in some embodiments, the first side member (313) may be formed integrally with the first rear cover (314), and the second side member (323) may be formed integrally with the second rear cover (324).

[0080] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101), in an unfolded state, may be connected to a second side (313b) of the first side member (313) and a fifth side (323b) of the second side member (323). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101), in an unfolded state, may be connected to a third side (313c) of the first side member (313) and a sixth side (323c) of the second side member (323). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101), in an unfolded state, may be configured such that the combined length of the second side (313b) and the fifth side (323b) is longer than the length of the first side (313a) and / or the fourth side (323a). Additionally, the combined length of the third side (313c) and the sixth side (323c) may be configured to be longer than the length of the first side (313a) and / or the fourth side (323a).

[0081] According to various embodiments, the first side member (313) and / or the second side member (323) may further include a polymer formed of metal (e.g., a conductive member or conductive region) or injected into the metal (e.g., a non-conductive member or non-conductive region). In one embodiment, the first side member (313) and / or the second side member (323) may also include at least one conductive portion (316 and / or 326) electrically segmented via at least one segment (3161, 3162, and / or 3261, 3262) formed of a polymer (e.g., a non-conductive portion or gap). In such a case, at least one conductive portion (316 and / or 326) may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a cellular communication circuit) included in the electronic device (101) (e.g., a wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) so as to be used as an antenna operating in at least one designated band (e.g., about 400 MHz to about 6000 MHz).

[0082] According to various embodiments, the first rear cover (314) and / or the second rear cover (324) may be formed by, for example, at least one or a combination of two of coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium).

[0083] According to various embodiments, the first display (330) may be arranged to extend from the first side (311) of the first housing (310) across the hinge structure (340) (e.g., a hinge module or hinge assembly) to at least a portion of the third side (321) of the second housing (320). For example, the first display (330) may include a first portion (330a) substantially corresponding to the first side (311), a second portion (330b) substantially corresponding to the third side (321), and a third portion (330c) (e.g., a bendable region) connecting the first portion (330a) and the second portion (330b) and corresponding to the hinge structure (340).

[0084] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include a first protective member (315) (e.g., a first cover, a first protective frame, a first protective cover, or a first decorative member) coupled along an edge of the first housing (310). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second protective member (325) (e.g., a second cover, a second protective frame, a second protective cover, or a second decorative member) coupled along an edge of the second housing (320). In one embodiment, the first protective member (315) and / or the second protective member (325) may be formed of a metal or polymer material. In one embodiment, the first protective member (315) and / or the second protective member (325) may be used as a decoration member. In one embodiment, the first display (330) may be positioned such that an edge of the first portion (330a) is interposed between the first housing (310) and the first protective member (315). In one embodiment, the first display (330) may be positioned such that an edge of the second portion (330b) is interposed between the second housing (320) and the second protective member (325). In one embodiment, the first display (330) may be positioned such that an edge of the first display (330) is protected by a protective cap (335) disposed in an area corresponding to the hinge structure (340). Accordingly, the first display (330) may be substantially protected from the outside at the edge. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge housing (341) (e.g., a hinge cover) that supports a hinge structure (340) and is exposed to the outside when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state and is positioned so as to be inserted into a first space (3101) of the first housing (310) and a second space (3201) of the second housing (320) so as to be invisible from the outside when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state. In some embodiments, the first display (330) may be positioned to extend from at least a portion of the second surface (312) to at least a portion of the fourth surface (322).In this case, the electronic device (101) can be folded so that the first display (330) can be exposed to the outside (out-folding method).

[0085] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include a second display (400) (e.g., a sub-display) disposed separately from the first display (330). In one embodiment, the second display (400) is disposed so as to be at least partially exposed on the second side (312) of the first housing (310), so as to replace the display function of the first display (330) when in a folded state, thereby displaying status information of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the second display (400) may be disposed so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover (314). In some embodiments, the second display (400) may be disposed on the fourth side (322) of the second housing (320). In such a case, the second display (400) may be disposed so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover (324).

[0086] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of an input device (303) (e.g., a microphone), an audio output device (301, 302), a sensor module (304), a camera device (305, 308), a key input device (306), or a connector port (307). In the illustrated embodiment, the input device (303) (e.g., a microphone), an audio output device (301, 302), a sensor module (304), a camera device (305, 308), a key input device (306), or a connector port (307) refers to a hole or shape formed in the first housing (310) or the second housing (320), but may also include an actual electronic component (e.g., an input device, an audio output device, a sensor module, or a camera device) disposed inside the electronic device (101) and operating through the hole or shape.

[0087] According to various embodiments, the input device (303) may include at least one microphone (303) disposed in the second housing (320). In some embodiments, the input device (303) may include a plurality of microphones (303) disposed so as to detect the direction of sound. In some embodiments, the plurality of microphones (303) may be disposed at appropriate locations in the first housing (310) and / or the second housing (320). In one embodiment, the audio output devices (301, 302) may include speakers (301, 302). In one embodiment, the speakers (301, 302) may include a call receiver (301) disposed in the first housing (310) and a speaker (302) disposed in the second housing (320). In some embodiments, the input device (303), the audio output device (301, 302), and the connector port (307) are disposed in a space provided in the first housing (310) and / or the second housing (320) of the electronic device (101), and can be exposed to the external environment through at least one hole formed in the first housing (310) and / or the second housing (320). In one embodiment, the at least one connector port (307) can be used to transmit and receive power and / or data with an external electronic device. In some embodiments, the at least one connector port (e.g., an ear jack hole) can also accommodate a connector (e.g., an ear jack) for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device. In some embodiments, the hole formed in the first housing (310) and / or the second housing (320) can be used in common for the input device (303) and the audio output device (301, 302). In some embodiments, the audio output device (301, 302) may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that operates without the holes formed in the first housing (310) and / or the second housing (320).

[0088] According to various embodiments, the sensor module (304) may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (101) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (304) may detect an external environment, for example, through a first surface (311) of the first housing (310). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may further include at least one sensor module arranged to detect the external environment through a second surface (312) of the first housing (310). In one embodiment, the sensor module (304) (e.g., an illuminance sensor) may be arranged under the first display (330) to detect the external environment through the first display (330). In one embodiment, the sensor module (304) may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an ambient light sensor, a proximity sensor, a biometric sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an ambient light sensor.

[0089] According to various embodiments, the camera devices (305, 308) may include a first camera device (305) (e.g., a front camera device) disposed on a first side (311) of the first housing (310) and a second camera device (308) disposed on a second side (312) of the first housing (310). The electronic device (101) may further include a flash (309) disposed near the second camera device (308). In one embodiment, the camera devices (305, 308) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (309) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, the camera devices (305, 308) may be arranged such that two or more lenses (e.g., a wide-angle lens, an ultra-wide-angle lens, or a telephoto lens) and image sensors are positioned on one side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a first side (311), a second side (312), a third side (321), or a fourth side (322)). In some embodiments, the camera devices (305, 308) may also include lenses and / or image sensors for time of flight (TOF).

[0090] According to various embodiments, the key input device (306) (e.g., a key button) may be disposed on a third side (313c) of the first side member (313) of the first housing (310). In some embodiments, the key input device (306) may be disposed on at least one of the other sides (313a, 313b) of the first housing (310) and / or the sides (323a, 323b, 323c) of the second housing (320). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may not include some or all of the key input devices (306), and the key input devices (306) that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key, on the first display (330). In some embodiments, the key input device (306) may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in the first display (330).

[0091] According to various embodiments, some of the camera devices (305, 308) (e.g., the first camera device (305)) or the sensor module (304) may be arranged to be exposed through the first display (330). For example, the first camera device (305) or the sensor module (304) may be arranged to be in contact with the external environment through an opening (e.g., a through hole) at least partially formed in the first display (330) in the internal space of the electronic device (101). In another embodiment, some of the sensor modules (304) may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the first display (330) in the internal space of the electronic device (101). For example, in this case, the opening may be omitted from the area of ​​the first display (330) that faces the sensor module (304).

[0092] Referring to FIG. 9, the electronic device (101) may be operated to maintain an intermediate state through the hinge structure (340). In this case, the electronic device (101) may control the first display (330) to display different contents on the display area corresponding to the first side (311) and the display area corresponding to the third side (321). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be operated in a substantially unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state of FIG. 5) and / or a substantially folded state (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 8) based on a certain inflection angle (e.g., the angle between the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) when in the intermediate state) through the hinge structure (340). For example, the electronic device (101) may be operated to transition to an unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state of FIG. 5) when a pressure is applied in the unfolding direction (R1 direction) from an intermediate state unfolded at a certain inflection angle through the hinge structure (340). For example, the electronic device (101) may be operated to transition to a closed state (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 8) when a pressure is applied in the folding direction (R2 direction) from an intermediate state unfolded at a certain inflection angle through the hinge structure (340). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be operated to maintain an unfolded state (not shown) at various angles through the hinge structure (340).

[0093] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include a conductive layer (3151) (e.g., a first conductive pattern or a first conductor) disposed between the first housing (310) and the first protective member (315). In one embodiment, the conductive layer (3151) may be disposed on the inner surface of the first protective member (315), and thus may not be visible from the outside. In one embodiment, the conductive layer (3151) may be electrically connected to a short-range wireless communication circuit (e.g., a wireless communication module (192) of FIG. 1) disposed in the inner space of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the short-range wireless communication circuit may be configured to transmit and / or receive a wireless signal in a frequency band of about 13.56 MHz through the conductive layer (3151). In one embodiment, the conductive layer (3151) may operate as a short-range communication antenna (NA1) (e.g., a first short-range communication antenna). In one embodiment, the short-range communication antenna (NA1) is arranged near the first side (313a) of the electronic device (101) along the longitudinal direction (e.g., ±x-axis direction) of the first side (313a), so as to form a wireless signal in a direction toward which the front surface (311) of the electronic device (101) faces (e.g., z-axis direction), in a direction toward which the side surface (313a) faces (e.g., y-axis direction), or in a direction between the front surface (311) and the side surface (313a) (e.g., a direction between the z-axis and the y-axis).

[0094] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include a conductive coil (390) (e.g., an antenna member) (e.g., a second conductive pattern or a second conductor) arranged to form a wireless signal in a rearward direction (e.g., a -z-axis direction) of the electronic device (101) when in an unfolded state. In one embodiment, the conductive coil (390) may be electrically connected to a short-range wireless communication circuit arranged in an internal space of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a second space (3201) of the second housing (320). In one embodiment, the short-range wireless communication circuit may be configured to transmit and / or receive a wireless signal in a frequency band of about 13.56 MHz through the conductive coil (390). In one embodiment, the conductive coil (390) may be operated as another short-range communication antenna (NA2) (e.g., a second short-range communication antenna).

[0095] An electronic device (101) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to form a wireless signal for short-range communication not only in the rear direction of the electronic device (101), but also in the front and / or side direction, thereby helping to improve the usability of the electronic device (101).

[0096] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the electronic device (101) of FIG. 10 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 5 to 9, or may include other embodiments of the electronic device.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 10, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 5 to 9) may include a first side member (313) (e.g., a first side frame), a second side member (323) (e.g., a second side frame), and a hinge structure (340) (e.g., a hinge module or a hinge assembly) that rotatably connects the first side member (213) and the second side member (223). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first extension member (3131) that extends at least partially from the first side member (313), or a second extension member (3231) that extends at least partially from the second side member (323). In one embodiment, the first extension member (3131) may include a first surface (3131a) facing the front direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the z-axis direction) and a second surface (3131b) facing in a direction opposite to the first surface (3131a) (e.g., the -z-axis direction). In one embodiment, the second extension member (3231) may include a third surface (3231a) facing in the front direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) and a fourth surface (3231b) facing in a direction opposite to the third surface (3231a) (e.g., the -z-axis direction). In one embodiment, the first extension member (3131) may be formed integrally with the first side member (313) or may be structurally coupled with the first side member (313). In one embodiment, the second extension member (3231) may be formed integrally with the second side member (323) or may be structurally connected to the second side member (323). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first display (330) arranged to be supported by a first surface (3131a) of the first extension member (3131) and a third surface (3231a) of the second extension member (3231).In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first rear cover (314) coupled with the first side member (313) and providing a first space (e.g., the first space (3101) of FIG. 6) between the first side member (313) and the second side member (323) and providing a second space (e.g., the second space (3201) of FIG. 6) between the second side member (313) and the fourth side member (3231b) of the second extension member (3231). In one embodiment, the first side member (313) and the first rear cover (314) may be formed integrally. In one embodiment, the second side member (323) and the second rear cover (324) may be formed integrally. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (310) of FIG. 5) (e.g., the first housing structure) provided through a first side member (313), a first extension member (3131), and a first rear cover (314). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second housing (e.g., the second housing (320) of FIG. 5) (e.g., the second housing structure) provided through a second side member (323), a second extension member (3231), and a second rear cover (324). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second display (400) positioned between the first rear cover (314) and the second side (3131b) of the first extension member (3131) so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover (314).

[0098] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include a first substrate (361) (e.g., a first printed circuit board (PCB) or a main printed circuit board), a camera assembly (363), a first battery (371), or a first bracket (351) disposed in a first space between a first side member (313) and a first rear cover (314). In one embodiment, the camera assembly (363) may include a plurality of camera devices (e.g., camera devices (305, 308) of FIGS. 5 and 8) and may be electrically connected to the first substrate assembly (361). In one embodiment, the first bracket (351) may provide a support structure and enhanced rigidity for supporting the first substrate (361) and / or the camera assembly (363).

[0099] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include a second substrate (362) (e.g., a second PCB or sub-printed circuit board), a conductive coil (390) (e.g., an antenna member), a second battery (372), or a second bracket (352) disposed in a second space between the second side member (323) and the second rear cover (324). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a wiring member (380) (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) that extends from the first substrate (361) across the hinge structure (340) to a plurality of electronic components (e.g., a second substrate (362), a second battery (372), or a conductive coil (390)) disposed between the second side member (323) and the second rear cover (324) and provides an electrical connection. In one embodiment, the conductive coil (390) may function as at least one of a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The conductive coil (390) may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0100] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge housing (341) (e.g., a hinge cover) that supports a hinge structure (340) and is exposed to the outside when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 8) and is positioned so as to be invisible from the outside by being introduced into the first space and / or the second space when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the unfolded state of FIG. 5).

[0101] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (101) may include a first protective member (315) coupled along an edge of the first side member (313). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second protective member (325) coupled along an edge of the second side member (323). In one embodiment, the first display (330) may have an edge of a first planar portion (e.g., the first portion (330a) of FIG. 9) protected by the first protective member (315). In one embodiment, the first display (330) may have an edge of a second planar portion (e.g., the second portion (330b) of FIG. 9) protected by the second protective member (325). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a protective cap (335) positioned to protect the edge of a flexible portion (e.g., the third portion (330c) of FIG. 9) corresponding to the hinge structure (340) of the first display (330). In some embodiments, the protective cap (335) and / or the protective members (315, 325) may be omitted.

[0102] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment.

[0103] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 11 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 5 to 10 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101).

[0104] Referring to FIG. 11, an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a power conversion circuit (510, 520) that receives a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) from an external device (e.g., a power adapter or a wireless power transmitter) through a charging interface (e.g., a connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1), a first battery (531) (e.g., the first battery (531) (371) of FIG. 10), a second battery (532) (e.g., the second battery (372) of FIG. 10), a first current limiting circuit (561), a second current limiting circuit (562), a first system (551), a second system (552), a first flexible circuit board (541), and a second flexible circuit board (542).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the power conversion circuit (510, 520) may include a first power conversion circuit (520) and a second power conversion circuit (510).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the first power conversion circuit (520) may include a switching converter (521) and a first switching element (522). According to one embodiment, the first power conversion circuit (520) may be connected to a power input node (N1) into which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input. According to one embodiment, the switching converter (521) of the first power conversion circuit (520) may adjust the power voltage (e.g., VBUS) to a specified voltage and output the adjusted voltage. According to one embodiment, the output terminal of the switching converter (521) may be defined as a first output node (N2) (e.g., a system node). For example, the switching converter (521) may adjust the power voltage (e.g., VBUS) to a specified voltage and output the adjusted voltage to the first output node (N2). According to one embodiment, the voltage output from the first power conversion circuit (520) may be used to charge the first battery (531) and the second battery (532), or may be used to drive the system (551, 552). According to one embodiment, the first power conversion circuit (520) may include a charging controller (not shown). According to one embodiment, the switching converter (521) may operate as the first power conversion circuit, and the first switching element (522) may be configured as a separate switching circuit.

[0107] According to one embodiment, a first output node (N2) connected to an output terminal of a switching converter (521) may be connected to a first system input node (N6) connected to a first system (551). According to one embodiment, a second system (552) may be connected to the first system input node (N6) via a first flexible circuit board (541). For example, a second system input node (N7) connected to the second system (552) may receive a specified voltage output from a first power conversion circuit (520) via the first flexible circuit board (541).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the term "system (551, 552)" may be used interchangeably with terms such as "load" or "load circuit". The system (551, 552) may be interpreted as including a plurality of parts or a plurality of components included in the electronic device (101). The system (551, 552) of the electronic device (101) may include components of the electronic device (101) described with reference to FIG. 1 as loads, and may include, for example, at least some of 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). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be a foldable electronic device (101), such as the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 5 to 10. The system (551, 552) may include a first system (551) (e.g., a first load circuit) disposed in a first housing (e.g., the first housing (310) of FIG. 5), and a second system (552) (e.g., a second load circuit) disposed in a second housing (e.g., the second housing (320) of FIG. 5).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the first switching element (522) can switch the connection of the first output node (N2) connected to the output terminal of the switching converter (521) with the first battery (531) and the second battery (532). The first switching element (522) can serve to switch the connection of the system (551, 552) and the batteries (531, 532). For example, the first switching element (522) can be configured to switch the connection of the first output node (N2) and the branch node (N3), and the branch node (N3) can be a node at which the electrical connection of the first battery (531) and the second battery (532) is branched. The second battery (532) can be connected to the branch node (N3) via the second flexible circuit board (542). For example, the branch node (N3) may form a path through which the first battery (531) and the second battery (532) are charged or discharged. In one embodiment, the first switching element (522) may be named a “battery switch (QBAT).” The first output node (N2) may be a path through which power is transmitted to the first system (551) and the second system (552).

[0110] According to one embodiment, the first power conversion circuit (520) may be a component integrated into an interface-integrated (IF) power management integrated circuit (PMIC). According to one embodiment, the first power conversion circuit (520) may include at least one inductor and / or at least one semiconductor device (e.g., a metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET)).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the first power conversion circuit (520) may be disposed in the first housing (310). For example, the first power conversion circuit (520) and the first battery (531) may be disposed in the first housing (310). The first battery (531) may be disposed in the first housing (310) together with the first power conversion circuit (520), and thus may be referred to as a “main battery,” and the second battery (532) may be referred to as a “sub-battery”, as it is disposed in the second housing (320).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected between a power input node (N1) into which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and a branch node (N3). According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be a direct charger that supports direct charging (hereinafter, “DC charging”) using a switched cap (capacitor) divider method. According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may include a power converter that lowers an input voltage input from an external device (e.g., a charger) by a specified ratio and outputs it, and increases an input current input from the external device by the specified ratio and outputs it. According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be a component integrated into a DC IC (direct charging integrated circuit). According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may include at least one capacitor and / or at least one semiconductor device (e.g., a metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET)). In one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may include a switched capacitor converter. In one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may include a 2:1 voltage divider that reduces the input voltage by half and increases the input current by two times. In various embodiments, the second power conversion circuit (510) is not limited to including a 2:1 voltage divider, but may be variously designed to include a 3:1 voltage divider that reduces the input voltage by one-third and increases the input current by three times, or a 4:1 voltage divider that reduces the input voltage by one-quarter and increases the input current by four times.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the first battery (531) may be disposed in the first housing (310). For example, a first battery node (N4) may be defined at an input terminal of the first battery (531), and the first battery (531) may be charged based on a voltage and current input to the first battery node (N4). For example, the first battery node (N4) may be a node connected to the first battery (531). The first battery node (N4) may be connected to a branch node (N3) connected to a first switching element (522) of the first power conversion circuit (520). According to one embodiment, a first current limiting circuit (561) may be disposed between the branch node (N3) and the first battery node (N4). The first current limiting circuit (561) may be configured to reduce a current flowing from the first power conversion circuit (520) to the first battery node (N4). For example, the first current limiting circuit (561) can block the charging path to prevent current from flowing from the branch node (N3) to the first battery (531) when the voltage of the branch node (N3) is above a threshold value (e.g., 4.8 V).

[0114] In one embodiment, the second battery (532) may be disposed in the second housing (320). For example, a second battery node (N5) may be defined at an input terminal of the second battery (532), and the second battery (532) may be charged based on a voltage and current input to the second battery node (N5). For example, the second battery node (N5) may be a node connected to the second battery (532). The second battery node (N5) may be connected to a branch node (N3) through a second flexible circuit board (542). In one embodiment, a second current limiting circuit (562) may be disposed between the second flexible circuit board (542) and the second battery node (N5). The second current limiting circuit (562) may be configured to reduce a current exceeding a rated current flowing to the second battery node (N5). For example, the second current limiting circuit (562) can block the charging path to prevent current from flowing to the second battery (532) based on specified conditions.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can bundle a dual battery including a first battery (531) and a second battery (532) into a single output, and then supply the bundled single output to a first system (551) and a second system (552) through a first switching element (522) of a first power conversion circuit (520). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the total current and voltage supplied to the first battery (531) and the second battery (532) through the first switching element (522) of the first power conversion circuit (520). Since the current distributed to each battery (531, 532) is determined according to the state of the first battery (531) and the second battery (532) and the impedance of the circuit, the electronic device (101) according to one embodiment can prevent a current exceeding the rating from being input to each of the first battery (531) and the second battery (532) by using the first current limiting circuit (561) and the second current limiting circuit (562).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have a current limiting circuit (561, 562) applied to each battery (531, 532) for current control for each of the first battery (531) and the second battery (532), which may increase heat generation and make the structure complex during the charging and discharging process of the batteries (531, 532).

[0117] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment in which a current limiting circuit is built into a battery pack.

[0118] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 12 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 11 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Hereinafter, only the embodiment of FIG. 12 that differs from the embodiment of FIG. 11 will be described. Accordingly, features not described in FIG. 12 will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 11.

[0119] The embodiment of FIG. 12, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 11, has a difference in that the first current limiting circuit (561) and the second current limiting circuit (562) are built into the battery pack. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 11, power output from the second battery (532), which is a sub-battery, must pass through the first flexible circuit board (541) and the second flexible circuit board (542) to be supplied to the second system (552), which may unnecessarily increase the resistance of the discharge path. In the embodiment of FIG. 12, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 11, the output voltage output from each battery pack (571, 572) can be directly connected to the system (551, 552).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the first output node (N2) may be a node connected to an output terminal of a power conversion circuit (e.g., the first power conversion circuit (520) and / or the second power conversion circuit (510)) and may be a path for transmitting power to the first system (551) and the second system (552). According to one embodiment, the first battery (531) and the first current limiting circuit (561) may be built into one battery pack (e.g., the first battery pack (571)). According to one embodiment, one battery pack (571) including the first battery (531) and the first current limiting circuit (561) may be directly connected to a first system input node (N6) connected to the first system (551). Accordingly, an output voltage output from the first battery (531) may be directly supplied to the first system (551) through the first system input node (N6).

[0121] In one embodiment, the second battery (532) and the second current limiting circuit (562) may be built into a single battery pack (e.g., a second battery pack (572)). In one embodiment, the single battery pack (572) including the second battery (532) and the second current limiting circuit (562) may be directly connected to a second system input node (N7) connected to a second system (552). Accordingly, an output voltage output from the second battery (532) may be directly supplied to the second system (552) via the second system input node (N7).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the current limiting circuits (561, 562) built into the battery packs (571, 572) may function as a protection circuit module (PCM). The first current limiting circuit (561) may be disposed in the first battery pack, and the second current limiting circuit (562) may be disposed in the second battery pack. For example, the first current limiting circuit (561) may be disposed in a protection circuit module located in the first battery pack. The second current limiting circuit (562) may be disposed in a protection circuit module located in the second battery pack.

[0123] According to one embodiment, since the current limiting circuit (562, 562) built into the battery pack (571, 572) of the electronic device (101) also functions as a PCM, the voltage of the battery pack (571, 572) may differ from the actual cell voltage of each battery, which may cause structural limitations.

[0124] FIG. 13 is a configuration diagram of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment in which a current limiting circuit is not arranged between the output terminal of the first power conversion circuit (520) and the first battery (531).

[0125] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 13 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 11 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Hereinafter, only the embodiment of FIG. 13 that differs from the embodiment of FIG. 11 will be described. Accordingly, features not described in FIG. 13 will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 11.

[0126] The embodiment of FIG. 13, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 11, has a difference in that the current limiting circuit connected to the first battery (531) is omitted, and the first switching element (522) of the first power conversion circuit (520) performs the role of the current limiting circuit instead. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 13, the first battery node (N4) connected to the first battery (531) can be directly connected to the first switching element (522).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the first switching element (522) can switch the connection between the first output node (N2) connected to the output terminal of the switching converter (521) and the first battery (531). For example, the first switching element (522) can be configured to switch the connection between the first output node (N2) and the first battery node (N4) connected to the first battery (531).

[0128] According to one embodiment, when the first switching element (522) is turned on, the voltage and / or current output from the switching converter (521) may be supplied to the first battery (531) through the first switching element (522). According to one embodiment, when the first switching element (522) is turned off, the voltage and / or current output from the switching converter (521) may be blocked and not supplied to the first battery (531). According to one embodiment, the first switching element (522) may be controlled by a charge controller or a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1). The first switching element (522) may be turned off in response to a first trigger. According to one embodiment, the first trigger may include a state in which a first battery current flowing from the first output node (N2) to the first battery node (N4) exceeds a specified first current. According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may turn off the first switching element (522) in response to the first trigger, and at this time, the first switching element (522) may function as a current limiting circuit.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected between a power input node (N1) into which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and a first system input node (N6). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be supplied to a first battery (531) via a first switching element (522). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be supplied to a second battery (532) via a first flexible circuit board (741). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be directly supplied to a first system (551) via the first system input node (N6).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can reduce heat generation during the charging and discharging process of the battery and have a simpler structure by reducing the number of current limiting circuits.

[0131] In one embodiment, the second battery (532) can be connected to the first output node (N2) (or the first system input node (N6)) via the first flexible circuit board (741). In one embodiment, the second battery (532) can be directly connected to the second system input node (N7) which is connected to the second system (552). Accordingly, the output voltage output from the second battery (532) can be directly supplied to the second system (552) via the second system input node (N7).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first output node (N2) may be a node connected to an output terminal of the first power conversion circuit (520) and / or the second power conversion circuit (510), and may be a path for transmitting power to the first system (551) and the second system (552).

[0133] According to one embodiment, a first current limiting circuit (562) may be arranged between a second battery node (N5) and a second system input node (N7). The first current limiting circuit (562) may be configured to reduce a current greater than a rated current flowing to the second battery node (N5). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may control the first current limiting circuit (562) to reduce a second battery current flowing to the second battery node (N5) in response to a second trigger. The second trigger may include a state in which a second battery current flowing from the first output node (N2) to the second battery node (N5) exceeds a designated second current. The processor (120) may control the first current limiting circuit (562) to cut off the second battery current in response to the second trigger.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the first flexible circuit board (741) may be positioned across a folding area where a first housing (e.g., the first housing (310) of FIG. 5) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (320) of FIG. 5) are joined.

[0135] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating the inside of a first power conversion circuit (520) according to one embodiment.

[0136] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 14 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 and FIG. 13 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Features not described in FIG. 14 will be replaced by the description of the embodiments of FIG. 1 and FIG. 13.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 14, a first power conversion circuit (520) according to one embodiment may include a switching converter (521), a first switching element (522), a gate driver (523) for driving the first switching element (522), and control logic (524) (e.g., limiter logic) for controlling the gate driver (523). Here, the control logic (524) may be controlled by a processor (120) of an electronic device (101).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the first switching element (522) may be configured as a metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET), and the gate driver (523) may control the gate voltage of the first switching element (522). For example, the gate driver (523) may drive the first switching element (522) based on a PWM (pulse width modulation) signal output from the control logic (524).

[0139] According to one embodiment, the control logic (524) is controlled by the processor (120), and the processor (120) can control the control logic (524) to turn off the first switching element (522) in response to the first trigger.

[0140] In one embodiment, the first trigger may include a state in which a first battery current flowing from the first output node (N2) to the first battery node (N4) exceeds a specified first current. In one embodiment, the processor (120) may turn off the first switching element (522) in response to the first trigger, wherein the first switching element (522) may function as a current limiting circuit.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the first current limiting circuit (562) may include control logic (not shown) and a gate driver (not shown). The first current limiting circuit (562) may be controlled by the processor (120).

[0142] FIG. 15 is an exemplary diagram showing a second power conversion circuit (510) connected to a second battery (532) according to one embodiment.

[0143] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 15 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 13 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Hereinafter, only the embodiment of FIG. 15 that differs from the embodiment of FIG. 13 will be described. Accordingly, features not described in FIG. 15 will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0144] The embodiment of FIG. 15, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 13, has a difference in that the second power conversion circuit (510) is connected between the power input node (N1) to which the power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and the second battery node (N5).

[0145] According to one embodiment, the output of the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected to the second battery node (N5) via the second flexible circuit board (742). For example, when the second power conversion circuit (510) is placed in a second housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2), the second flexible circuit board (742) may be placed between the second power conversion circuit (510) and a power input node (N1) to which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected between a power input node (N1) to which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and a second battery node (N5). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be directly supplied to the second battery (532) via the second battery node (N5).

[0147] FIG. 16 is an exemplary diagram in which a second power conversion circuit (510) according to one embodiment is connected between an output terminal of a first power conversion circuit (520) and a first battery (531).

[0148] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 16 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 13 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Hereinafter, only the embodiment of FIG. 16 that differs from the embodiment of FIG. 13 will be described. Accordingly, features not described in FIG. 16 will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0149] The embodiment of FIG. 16, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 13, has a difference in that the second power conversion circuit (510) is connected between the power input node (N1) to which the power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and the first battery node (N4).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected between a power input node (N1) to which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and a first battery node (N4). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be directly supplied to the first battery (531) via the first battery node (N4).

[0151] FIG. 17 is a configuration diagram of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment including a first battery (531), a second battery (532), and a third battery (533).

[0152] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 17 may be at least partially similar to the electronic devices (101) of FIGS. 2 to 4 and the electronic device (101) of FIG. 13, or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Hereinafter, only the embodiment of FIG. 17 that differs from the embodiment of FIG. 13 will be described. Accordingly, features not described in FIG. 17 will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0153] The embodiment of FIG. 17, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 13, has a difference in that it further includes a third battery (533) and a third system (553).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be a multi-foldable electronic device (101), such as the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 4. According to one embodiment, the systems (551, 552, 553) may include a first system (551) (e.g., a first load circuit) disposed in a first housing (e.g., the third housing (230) of FIG. 2), a second system (552) (e.g., a second load circuit) disposed in a second housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2), and a third system (553) (e.g., a third load circuit) disposed in a third housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 3). According to one embodiment, the system (551, 552, 553) may include a first system (551) (e.g., a first load circuit) disposed in a second housing (e.g., a first housing (210) of FIG. 2), a second system (552) (e.g., a second load circuit) disposed in a first housing (e.g., a third housing (230) of FIG. 2), and a third system (553) (e.g., a third load circuit) disposed in a third housing (e.g., a second housing (220) of FIG. 3).

[0155] According to one embodiment, a first system (551) may be connected to a first system input node (N6). For example, the first system (551) may receive converted voltage and current from a first power conversion circuit (520) through the first system input node (N6).

[0156] In one embodiment, a second system (552) may be connected to a second system input node (N7), and the second system input node (N7) may be connected to a first system input node (N6) via a first flexible circuit board (841). For example, the second system (552) may receive converted voltage and current from the first power conversion circuit (520) via the first flexible circuit board (841). In one embodiment, the first flexible circuit board (841) may be arranged to span a folding area where the first housing and the second housing are joined.

[0157] In one embodiment, a third system (553) may be connected to a third system input node (N9), and the third system input node (N9) may be connected to a second system input node (N7) via a second flexible circuit board (842). In one embodiment, the second flexible circuit board (842) may be positioned to span a folding area where the second housing and the third housing are joined.

[0158] In one embodiment, the first battery (531) may be named a “main battery” as it is disposed in the first housing together with the first power conversion circuit (520), the second battery (532) may be named a “first sub-battery” as it is disposed in the second housing, and the third battery (533) may be named a “second sub-battery” as it is disposed in the third housing.

[0159] In one embodiment, the first battery (531) may be disposed in the first housing. For example, a first battery node (N4) may be defined at an input terminal of the first battery (531), and the first battery (531) may be charged based on a voltage and current input to the first battery node (N4). For example, the first battery node (N4) may be a node connected to the first battery (531). In one embodiment, the first battery node (N4) may be directly connected to a first switching element (522) of a first power conversion circuit (520). The first switching element (522) of the first power conversion circuit (520) may not only switch the connection between the first battery (531) and the systems (551, 552, 553), but may also function as a current limiting circuit for the first battery (531).

[0160] In one embodiment, the second battery (532) may be disposed in the second housing. For example, a second battery node (N5) may be defined at an input terminal of the second battery (532), and the second battery (532) may be charged based on a voltage and current input to the second battery node (N5). In one embodiment, the second battery node (N5) may be connected to the second system (552) via a second system input node (N7), and a first current limiting circuit (562) may be disposed between the second battery node (N5) and the second system input node (N7). The first current limiting circuit (562) may limit the second battery current so that a current exceeding the rating is not input to the second battery (532).

[0161] In one embodiment, the third battery (533) may be disposed in the third housing. For example, a third battery node (N8) may be defined at an input terminal of the third battery (533), and the third battery (533) may be charged based on a voltage and current input to the third battery node (N8). In one embodiment, the third battery node (N8) may be connected to a third system (553) via a third system input node (N9), and a second current limiting circuit (563) may be disposed between the third battery node (N8) and the third system input node (N9). The second current limiting circuit (563) may limit the third battery current so that a current exceeding the rating is not input to the third battery (533).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may control the second current limiting circuit (563) to reduce the third battery current flowing to the third battery node (N8) in response to the third trigger. The third trigger may include a state in which the third battery current flowing from the first output node (N2) to the third battery node (N8) exceeds a designated third current. The processor (120) may control the second current limiting circuit (563) to cut off the third battery current in response to the third trigger.

[0163] FIG. 18 is an exemplary diagram illustrating various nodes to which a second power conversion circuit (510) according to one embodiment may be connected.

[0164] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 18 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 17 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Hereinafter, only the embodiment of FIG. 18 that differs from the embodiment of FIG. 17 will be described. Accordingly, features not described in FIG. 18 will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 17.

[0165] The embodiment of FIG. 18, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 17, has a difference in that it further includes a second power conversion circuit (510).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be a multi-foldable electronic device (101), such as the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2 to 4. The systems (551, 552, 553) may include a first system (551) (e.g., a first load circuit) disposed in a first housing (e.g., the third housing (230) of FIG. 2), a second system (552) (e.g., a second load circuit) disposed in a second housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2), and a third system (553) (e.g., a third load circuit) disposed in a third housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 3).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a power conversion circuit including a first power conversion circuit (520) and a second power conversion circuit (510).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the first power conversion circuit (520) may include a switching converter (521) and a first switching element (522). The first power conversion circuit (520) illustrated in FIG. 18 may be substantially identical to the first power conversion circuit (520) illustrated in FIG. 17. Therefore, the description of the first power conversion circuit (520) will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 17.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected between a power input node (N1) into which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and a first system input node (N6). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be supplied to a first battery (531) via a first switching element (522). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be supplied to a second battery (532) via a first flexible circuit board (841). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be supplied to a third battery (533) via the first flexible circuit board (841) and the second flexible circuit board (842). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) can be directly supplied to the first system (551) via the first system input node (N6). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) can be supplied to the second system (552) via the first flexible circuit board (841). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) can be supplied to the third system (553) via the first flexible circuit board (841) and the second flexible circuit board (842).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) is not limited to being connected between a power input node (N1) to which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and a first system input node (N6). For example, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected between the power input node (N1) and a second system input node (N7). For example, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected between the power input node (N1) and a third system input node (N9).

[0171] FIG. 19 is an exemplary diagram illustrating various nodes to which a second power conversion circuit (510) according to one embodiment may be connected.

[0172] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 19 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 18 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Hereinafter, only the embodiment of FIG. 19 that differs from the embodiment of FIG. 18 will be described. Accordingly, features not described in FIG. 19 will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 18.

[0173] The embodiment of FIG. 19, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 18, has a difference in that the second power conversion circuit (510) is connected between the power input node (N1) and the second battery node (N5).

[0174] According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected between a power input node (N1) to which a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) is input and a second battery node (N5). According to one embodiment, the voltage and current converted by the second power conversion circuit (510) may be directly supplied to the second battery (532) via the second battery node (N5).

[0175] According to one embodiment, the second power conversion circuit (510) may be disposed in the second housing together with the second battery (532). The second power conversion circuit (510) may be connected to the power input node (N1) via the third flexible circuit board (941). For example, the second power conversion circuit (510) may receive a power voltage (e.g., VBUS) via the third flexible circuit board (941).

[0176] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment in which a second battery (532) and a third battery (533) are connected via a flexible circuit board.

[0177] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 20 may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 17 or may include other embodiments of the electronic device (101). Hereinafter, only the embodiment of FIG. 20 that differs from the embodiment of FIG. 17 will be described. Accordingly, features not described in FIG. 20 will be replaced with the description of the embodiment of FIG. 17.

[0178] The embodiment of FIG. 20, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 17, has a difference in that the second battery (532) and the third battery (533) are tied to one output through the third flexible circuit board.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a third flexible circuit board (942) disposed between a second battery node (N5) connected to a second battery (532) and a third battery node (N8) connected to a third battery (533).

[0180] According to one embodiment, the third flexible circuit board (942) is configured to interconnect the second battery node (N5) and the third battery node (N8).

[0181] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may omit the current limiting circuit connected to the third battery (533) as the second battery (532) and the third battery (533) are bundled into a single output via the third flexible circuit board (942). For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 17, a current limiting circuit is disposed in each of the second battery (532) and the third battery (533), whereas the embodiment of FIG. 20 may use a single current limiting circuit (562) to block the supply of current exceeding the rated current to each of the second battery (532) and the third battery (533).

[0182] Fig. 21 is a waveform diagram showing the operation of a first switching element (522) according to one embodiment. For example, Fig. 21 may be a waveform diagram regarding the operation of the switching element illustrated in Figs. 13 to 20.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 21, a first switching element (e.g., the first switching element (522) of FIG. 13) according to one embodiment may perform functions of switching a connection between a battery (e.g., 531, 532 of FIG. 13) and a system (e.g., 551, 552 of FIG. 13), as well as functions of blocking a charging current and allowing a discharging operation. According to one embodiment, a condition under which a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) controls the first switching element (522) may include various conditions, and may be based on, for example, a difference between a voltage (e.g., a Vbat voltage) of a first battery node (e.g., a first battery node (N4) of FIG. 13) and a voltage (e.g., a Vsys voltage) of a first output node (e.g., a first output node (N2) of FIG. 13), or a battery current (e.g., an Ibat). For example, the condition for controlling the first switching element (522) may include a condition in which the battery current (e.g., Ibat) exceeds a specific value. According to one embodiment, the condition in which the processor (120) controls the first switching element (522) may include a condition in which the voltage (e.g., Vsys voltage) of the first output node (N2) decreases by a specific value or more compared to the voltage (e.g., Vbat voltage) of the first battery node (N4).

[0184] In Fig. 21, the vertical axis may represent the voltage of the first battery node (N4) (e.g., Vbat voltage), the voltage of the first output node (N2) (e.g., Vsys voltage), and the battery current (e.g., Ibat). In Fig. 21, the horizontal axis may represent time.

[0185] Referring to time point T1, the battery current (e.g., Ibat) exceeds a specific value, and the processor (120) may control the first switching element (522) in response to the event to perform current control. For example, the current may be limited so that the charging current does not exceed a specific value.

[0186] Referring to time point T2, the voltage of the first output node (N2) (e.g., Vsys voltage) has decreased by a certain value or more compared to the voltage of the first battery node (N4) (e.g., Vbat voltage), and the processor (120) can control the first switching element (522) in response to the event to perform current control.

[0187] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first power conversion circuit including a first battery (531), a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery (531), a switching converter, and a first switching element disposed between a first output node connected to an output terminal of the switching converter and the first battery (531), a second power conversion circuit for increasing a current input from an external device by a specified ratio and outputting it, and for lowering a voltage input from the external device by the specified ratio and outputting it, a first flexible circuit board disposed between the first output node and a second battery node connected to the second battery, a first current limiting circuit disposed between the first flexible circuit board and the second battery node, a processor, and a memory storing instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: in response to a first trigger, control the first switching element to lower a first battery current flowing from the first output node to a first battery node connected to the first battery, and in response to a second trigger, control the first current limiting circuit to lower the first current flowing from the first output node to the first battery node connected to the first battery. The limiting circuit may be controlled to lower the second battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery node.

[0188] The device further includes a first housing in which the first battery (531) and the first load circuit are arranged, and a second housing foldably connected to the first housing and in which the second battery and the second load circuit are arranged, wherein the first flexible circuit board can be arranged to cross a folding area in which the first housing and the second housing are connected.

[0189] The second power conversion circuit can be connected in parallel with the first power conversion circuit through a power input node to which voltage is input from the external device.

[0190] The second power conversion circuit may be directly connected to the second battery node.

[0191] The second power conversion circuit may be directly connected to the first battery node.

[0192] The electronic device further includes a third battery connected in parallel with the first battery (531) and the second battery, and the third battery can be electrically connected to the first output node through the first flexible circuit board and the second flexible circuit board.

[0193] The second power conversion circuit can be directly connected to the first output node.

[0194] The second power conversion circuit may be directly connected to the second battery node.

[0195] The second power conversion circuit may be directly connected to a third battery node connected to the third battery.

[0196] The device may further include a second current limiting circuit disposed between the second flexible circuit board and a third battery node connected to the third battery.

[0197] The first trigger includes a state in which a first battery current flowing from the first output node to the first battery node exceeds a specified first current, and the processor can control the first switching element in response to the first trigger.

[0198] The second trigger includes a state in which a second battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery node exceeds a designated second current, and the processor can control the first current limiting circuit to cut off the second battery current in response to the second trigger.

[0199] The processor may control the second current limiting circuit to block a third battery current flowing from the first output node to a third battery node connected to the third battery in response to a third trigger, wherein the third trigger may include a condition in which the third battery current exceeds a specified third current.

[0200] In a driving method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device includes a first power conversion circuit including a first battery (531), a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery (531), a switching converter, and a first switching element disposed between a first output node connected to an output terminal of the switching converter and the first battery (531), a second power conversion circuit that increases a current input from an external device by a specified ratio and outputs it, and lowers a voltage input from the external device by the specified ratio and outputs it, a first flexible circuit board disposed between the first output node and a second battery node connected to the second battery, and a first current limiting circuit disposed between the first flexible circuit board and the second battery node, wherein the driving method of the electronic device comprises: an operation of controlling, in response to a first trigger, the first switching element to lower a first battery current flowing from the first output node to the first battery node connected to the first battery; and an operation of controlling, in response to a second trigger, the first current limiting circuit to lower a first battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery. It may include an action to control the second battery current flowing to the node to be lowered.

[0201] The electronic device further includes a first housing in which the first battery (531) and the first load circuit are disposed, and a second housing foldably coupled to the first housing and in which the second battery and the second load circuit are disposed, wherein the first flexible circuit board can be disposed to cross a folding area in which the first housing and the second housing are coupled.

[0202] The second power conversion circuit can be connected in parallel with the first power conversion circuit through a power input node to which voltage is input from the external device.

[0203] The second power conversion circuit may be directly connected to the second battery node.

[0204] The second power conversion circuit may be directly connected to the first battery node.

[0205] The electronic device further includes a third battery connected in parallel with the first battery (531) and the second battery, and a second current limiting circuit disposed between a second flexible circuit board and a third battery node connected to the third battery, wherein the third battery is electrically connected to the first output node through the first flexible circuit board and the second flexible circuit board, and a driving method of the electronic device further includes an operation of controlling the first switching element in response to the first trigger, wherein the first trigger may include a state in which a first battery current flowing from the first output node to the first battery node exceeds a designated first current.

[0206] The second power conversion circuit can be directly connected to the first output node.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, 1st battery (531); A second battery connected in parallel with the first battery (531); A first power conversion circuit including a switching converter and a first switching element disposed between a first output node connected to an output terminal of the switching converter and the first battery (531); A second power conversion circuit that increases the current input from an external device by a specified ratio and outputs it, and lowers the voltage input from the external device by the specified ratio and outputs it; A first flexible circuit board disposed between the first output node and a second battery node connected to the second battery; A first current limiting circuit disposed between the first flexible circuit board and the second battery node; processor; and Contains memory that stores instructions, The above instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to: In response to the first trigger, the first switching element is controlled to lower the first battery current flowing from the first output node to the first battery node connected to the first battery, In response to a second trigger, the first current limiting circuit is controlled to lower the second battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery node. Electronic devices.

2. In paragraph 1, A first housing in which the first battery (531) and the first load circuit are arranged; and Further comprising a second housing foldably connected to the first housing and in which the second battery and the second load circuit are arranged; The first flexible circuit board is arranged to cross the folding area where the first housing and the second housing are joined. Electronic devices.

3. In paragraph 1, The second power conversion circuit is connected in parallel with the first power conversion circuit through a power input node to which voltage is input from the external device. Electronic devices.

4. In paragraph 1, The second power conversion circuit is directly connected to the second battery node, Electronic devices.

5. In paragraph 1, The second power conversion circuit is directly connected to the first battery node, Electronic devices.

6. In paragraph 1, The electronic device further includes a third battery connected in parallel with the first battery (531) and the second battery, The third battery is electrically connected to the first output node through the first flexible circuit board and the second flexible circuit board. Electronic devices.

7. In paragraph 6, The second power conversion circuit is directly connected to the first output node, Electronic devices.

8. In paragraph 6, The second power conversion circuit is directly connected to the second battery node, Electronic devices.

9. In paragraph 6, The second power conversion circuit is directly connected to a third battery node connected to the third battery. Electronic devices.

10. In paragraph 6, Further comprising a second current limiting circuit disposed between the second flexible circuit board and the third battery node connected to the third battery. Electronic devices.

11. In paragraph 10, The first trigger includes a state in which a first battery current flowing from the first output node to the first battery node exceeds a specified first current, The processor controls the first switching element in response to the first trigger, Electronic devices.

12. In paragraph 10, The second trigger includes a state in which a second battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery node exceeds a specified second current, The processor controls the first current limiting circuit to cut off the second battery current in response to the second trigger. Electronic devices.

13. In paragraph 10, The processor controls the second current limiting circuit to block a third battery current flowing from the first output node to a third battery node connected to the third battery in response to a third trigger, The third trigger includes a state in which the third battery current exceeds a specified third current. Electronic devices.

14. In a method of driving an electronic device, The electronic device comprises a first power conversion circuit including a first battery (531), a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery (531), a switching converter, and a first switching element disposed between a first output node connected to an output terminal of the switching converter and the first battery (531), a second power conversion circuit for increasing a current input from an external device by a specified ratio and outputting it, and for decreasing a voltage input from the external device by the specified ratio and outputting it, a first flexible circuit board disposed between the first output node and a second battery node connected to the second battery, and a first current limiting circuit disposed between the first flexible circuit board and the second battery node. The driving method of the above electronic device is: In response to a first trigger, an operation of controlling the first switching element to lower a first battery current flowing from the first output node to a first battery node connected to the first battery, and In response to a second trigger, the first current limiting circuit comprises an operation for controlling a second battery current flowing from the first output node to the second battery node to be lowered. method.

15. In paragraph 14, The above electronic device, A first housing in which the first battery (531) and the first load circuit are arranged; and Further comprising a second housing foldably connected to the first housing and in which the second battery and the second load circuit are arranged; The first flexible circuit board is arranged to cross the folding area where the first housing and the second housing are joined. method.

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