Foldable electronic device comprising hinge module

Abstract

A foldable electronic device according to the present disclosure may include a hinge module including a center bar which is connected to a first washer and a second washer, supports a flexible display when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, and is configured to descend toward a first interlocking gear and a second interlocking gear while the foldable electronic device is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state, wherein the center bar extends to at least an area overlapping the first interlocking gear and the second interlocking gear in a second side direction opposite to a first side direction so as to expand a support area for supporting the flexible display, and is configured so as not to be in contact the with the first interlocking gear and the second interlocking gear when the center bar has descended in a folded state of the foldable electronic device.

Description

Foldable electronic device including a hinge module

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a foldable electronic device including a hinge module, for example, a hinge module capable of effectively supporting a flexible display through expansion of a center bar, and a foldable electronic device including the hinge module.

[0002] Thanks to remarkable advancements in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology, the proliferation and use of various electronic devices is rapidly increasing. Recent electronic devices are being developed to enable portability and communication.

[0003] Electronic devices can refer to devices that perform specific functions based on their embedded programs, such as home appliances, electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, audio / video devices, desktop / laptop computers, and car navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as audio or video.

[0004] As the integration of electronic devices increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communications become more widespread, a single electronic device, such as a mobile terminal, can now incorporate a variety of functions. For example, in addition to communication functions, entertainment functions like gaming, multimedia functions like music and video playback, communication and security functions like mobile banking, and even calendar management and electronic wallet functions are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are also becoming smaller and more portable for users.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device comprises: a foldable housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion; a hinge module connected to the first housing portion and the second housing portion and rotatably coupling the first housing portion and the second housing portion about a folding axis positioned between the first housing portion and the second housing portion; a flexible display disposed on the first housing portion and the second housing portion, wherein the hinge module comprises: a hinge bracket; a first shaft extending from the hinge bracket in a first lateral direction parallel to the folding axis and rotating about a first axis parallel to the folding axis; a second shaft extending from the hinge bracket in the first lateral direction and rotating about a second axis parallel to the first axis; a first arm fixed to the first shaft; a second arm fixed to the second shaft; a first gear disposed between the first arm and the hinge bracket and fixed to the first shaft; A second gear disposed between the second arm and the hinge bracket and fixed to the second shaft; a first linkage gear and a second linkage gear disposed between the first gear and the second gear and linking the rotation of the first gear and the second gear to enable implementation of an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device; a first washer disposed on the first lateral side of the first arm and fixed to the first shaft and configured to rotate together with the first shaft; a second washer disposed on the first lateral side of the second arm and fixed to the second shaft and configured to rotate together with the second shaft;A center bar connected to the first washer and the second washer, configured to support the flexible display when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, and to descend toward the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear while the foldable electronic device is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state, wherein the center bar extends in a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction to at least an area overlapping the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear to expand a support area for supporting the flexible display, and when the center bar is descended in the folded state of the foldable electronic device, it may be configured to not contact the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear.;

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device comprises: a foldable housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion; a hinge module connected to the first housing portion and the second housing portion and rotatably coupling the first housing portion and the second housing portion about a folding axis positioned between the first housing portion and the second housing portion; a flexible display disposed on the first housing portion and the second housing portion, wherein the hinge module comprises: a hinge bracket; a first shaft extending from the hinge bracket in a first lateral direction parallel to the folding axis and rotating about a first axis parallel to the folding axis; a second shaft extending from the hinge bracket in the first lateral direction and rotating about a second axis parallel to the first axis; a first gear disposed on the first lateral side of the hinge bracket and fixed to the first shaft; a second gear disposed on the first lateral side of the hinge bracket and fixed to the second shaft; A first linkage gear and a second linkage gear arranged between the first gear and the second gear, and linking the rotation of the first gear and the second gear to enable the implementation of an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device; a center bar configured to support the flexible display when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state and to descend toward the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear while the foldable electronic device is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state, wherein the center bar may extend in a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction to at least an area overlapping the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear, and may be configured to not contact the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear when the center bar descends in the folded state of the foldable electronic device.

[0007] The above-described aspects or other aspects, configurations and / or advantages of various embodiments of the present disclosure may be further clarified by the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a front view, a side view, and a rear view of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a front view, a side view, and a rear view of a folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a portion of a configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a portion of a configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a portion of a configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a rear view of a portion of a configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 16 is a plan view of a portion of a configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 22 is a plan view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a part of a configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 25 is a rear perspective view of a foldable electronic device (301) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 26 is a plan view of a portion of a configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 27 is a plan view of a portion of a configuration of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 29 is a rear perspective view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Throughout the attached drawings, similar reference numbers may be assigned to similar parts, components and / or structures.

[0038] The following description of the accompanying drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure, including the claims and their equivalents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include numerous specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one example of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the various implementations described in this disclosure may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0039] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their reference meanings and can be used to clearly and consistently describe one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various implementations of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure and its equivalents.

[0040] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural meanings. Thus, for example, "a component surface" could be understood to include one or more of the surfaces of the component.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In 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)).

[0043] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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 as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the 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).

[0061] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0062] 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)).

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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 (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.

[0066] 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, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0067] 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.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0069] 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.

[0070] FIG. 2 is a front view, a side view, and a rear view of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a front view, a side view, and a rear view of a folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a flexible or foldable display (230) (hereinafter, abbreviated as “the first display (230)”) disposed in the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1), and a hinge cover (260).

[0072] According to one embodiment, a surface on which the first display (230) is disposed may be defined as a front surface of the electronic device (101). The front surface of the electronic device (101) may be formed by a front plate (e.g., a glass plate or a polymer plate including various coating layers) having at least a portion that is substantially transparent. In addition, a surface opposite to the front surface may be defined as a rear surface of the electronic device (101). The rear surface of the electronic device (101) may be formed by a substantially opaque rear plate (hereinafter referred to as a “rear cover”). The rear cover may be formed by, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the above materials. In addition, a surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the rear surface may be defined as a side surface of the electronic device (101). The side surface may be formed by a side bezel structure (or “side member”) that is coupled to the front plate and the rear cover and includes a metal and / or a polymer. In some embodiments, the rear cover and side bezel structures may be formed integrally and include the same material (e.g., a metal material such as aluminum).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one of a first display (230), an audio module (241, 243, 245), a sensor module (255), a camera device (251, 253), a key input device (211, 212, 213), and a connector hole (214). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of the components (e.g., a key input device (211, 212, 213)) or additionally include another component (e.g., a light-emitting element).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may be a display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a folding area (231c), a first area (231a) disposed on one side (e.g., the upper side of the folding area (231c) illustrated in FIG. 2) with respect to the folding area (231c), and a second area (231b) disposed on the other side (e.g., the lower side of the folding area (231c) illustrated in FIG. 2). However, the division of the areas of the first display (230) illustrated in FIG. 2 is exemplary, and the first display (230) may be divided into a plurality of areas (e.g., four or more or two) depending on the structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the areas of the first display (230) may be divided by the folding area (231c) or the folding axis (A), but in one embodiment, the areas of the first display (230) may also be divided by another folding area (231c) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis perpendicular to the folding axis (A)).

[0075] According to one embodiment, a microphone hole (241) may have a microphone placed inside to acquire external sound, and in some embodiments, multiple microphones may be placed to detect the direction of the sound.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the speaker holes (243, 245) may include an external speaker hole (243) and a call receiver hole (245). In some embodiments, the speaker holes (243, 245) and the microphone hole (241) may be implemented as a single hole, or a speaker may be included without the speaker hole (243, 245) (e.g., a piezo speaker). The positions and numbers of the microphone hole (241) and the speaker holes (243, 245) may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first camera device (251) disposed on a first surface (210a) of a first housing (210) of the electronic device (101), and a second camera device (253) disposed on a second surface (210b). In addition, the electronic device (101) may further include a flash (not shown). The camera devices (251, 253) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (not shown) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (255) may generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (101) or an external environmental state. Although not illustrated in the drawing, the electronic device (101) may additionally or alternatively include another sensor module (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) in addition to the sensor module (255) provided on the second surface (210b) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) may include, as a sensor module, at least one of a proximity sensor, a fingerprint sensor, an HRM sensor, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor, for example.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the key input devices (211, 212, 213) may be disposed on a side of the foldable housing (e.g., the hinge cover (260), the first housing (210), and / or the second housing (220)). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may not include some or all of the above-mentioned key input devices (211, 212, 213), and the key input devices that are not included may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key, on the first display (230). In some embodiments, the key input devices may be configured such that key input is implemented by a sensor module (e.g., a gesture sensor).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the connector hole (214) may be configured to accommodate a connector (e.g., a USB connector) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data to and from an external electronic device, or, additionally or alternatively, a connector for transmitting and receiving audio signals to and from an external electronic device.

[0081] According to one embodiment, a foldable housing may be implemented by combining a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a first back cover (240, back cover), a second back cover (250, back cover) and / or a hinge module (e.g., a hinge structure (270) of FIG. 4 described below). The foldable housing of the electronic device (101) is not limited to the shape and combination illustrated in FIG. 2, and may be implemented by combining and / or combining other shapes or parts. For example, in one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the first back cover (240) may be formed integrally, and the second housing (220) and the second back cover (250) may be formed integrally. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure disclosed in the present disclosure, the term 'housing' may mean a combination and / or combined configuration of various other parts that are not mentioned. For example, the first area (231a) of the first display (230) may be described as forming one side of the first housing (210), and in one embodiment, the first area (231a) of the first display (230) may be described as being arranged or attached to one side of the first housing (210).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) is connected to a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (270) of FIG. 4 described below) and may include a first side (210a) facing a first direction and a second side (210b) facing a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second housing (220) is connected to a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (270) of FIG. 4 described below) and includes a third side (220a) facing a third direction and a fourth side (220b) facing a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, and may rotate or pivot with respect to the first housing (210) about the hinge structure (or folding axis (A)).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged on both sides (or upper / lower sides) with respect to the folding axis (A). The angle or distance at which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) intersect each other may vary depending on whether the state of the electronic device (101) is an unfolded state, a folded state, or a partially unfolded (or partially folded) intermediate state.

[0084] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be formed of a metallic or non-metallic material having a rigidity of a size selected to support the first display (230). At least a portion formed of the metallic material may serve as a ground plane or a radiating conductor of the electronic device (101), and when served as a ground plane, may be electrically connected to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board (e.g., printed circuit boards (216, 226) of FIG. 4).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (240) is disposed on one side (e.g., the upper side in FIG. 2) of the folding axis (A) on the rear of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular periphery, the periphery of which may be wrapped by the first housing (210) (and / or the side bezel structure). Similarly, the second rear cover (250) is disposed on the other side (e.g., the lower side in FIG. 2) of the folding axis (A) on the rear of the electronic device (101) and may have its periphery wrapped by the second housing (220) (and / or the side bezel structure).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (240) and the second rear cover (250) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (A). However, the first rear cover (240) and the second rear cover (250) do not necessarily have mutually symmetrical shapes, and in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include the first rear cover (240) and the second rear cover (250) of various shapes. In one embodiment, the first rear cover (240) may be formed integrally with the first housing (210), and the second rear cover (250) may be formed integrally with the second housing (220).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (240), the second rear cover (250), the first housing (210), and the second housing (220) may form a space in which various components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the printed circuit boards (216, 226) or the batteries (215, 225) of FIG. 4) may be placed. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device (101). For example, at least a portion of the second display (239) may be visually exposed through the first rear cover (240). In one embodiment, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the first rear cover (240). In various embodiments, the components or sensors may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera, and / or a flash. In addition, although not shown separately in the drawing, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the second rear cover (250).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (240) may include a notch (244). The notch (244) may be formed at an edge of the first rear cover (240). For example, the notch (244) may be positioned around the perimeter of the second display (239). For example, the notch (244) may extend along an edge of the second display (239). The notch (244) will be described in detail below.

[0089] According to one embodiment, a front camera device (251) exposed on the front side of the electronic device (101) through one or more openings or a rear camera device (253) exposed through the first rear cover (240) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. A flash (not shown) may include, for example, a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In some embodiments, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be arranged on one side of the electronic device (101).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (210, 220, 260) may include a hinge cover (260), a first housing (210), and a second housing (220). The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be rotated with respect to the hinge structure (270). When the electronic device (101) is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be rotated with respect to the hinge structure (270) to bring them closer to each other. When the electronic device (101) is changed from a folded state to an unfolded state, a portion of the first housing (210) and a portion of the second housing (220) may be rotated with respect to the hinge cover (260) to move them away from each other. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the folding direction of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) may include a direction in which the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) rotates with respect to the hinge structure (270) when the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) transitions from an unfolded state to a folded state. The unfolding direction of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) may include a direction in which the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) rotates with respect to the hinge structure (270) when the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) transitions from a folded state to an unfolded state.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can be configured to have a folded state of the first display (230) or an unfolded state of the first display (230). For example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can rotate about the folding axis (A) between a folded state in which the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) of the first display (230) face each other, and a state in which the first display (230) is unfolded by a specified angle from the folded state (e.g., the unfolded state of the electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 2).

[0092] According to one embodiment, as the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) rotate about the folding axis (A), the electronic device (101) may include a folded state and an unfolded state. The folded state may be a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) face each other, and an angle formed by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be less than a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees). The unfolded state may be a state in which the electronic device (101) is fully unfolded or partially unfolded, and an angle formed by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be greater than or equal to the predetermined angle.

[0093] Fig. 2 illustrates an unfolded state of the electronic device (101) in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) form an angle of approximately 180°. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 illustrate a folded state of the electronic device (101) in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are parallel and facing each other. In the folded state, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) of the first display (230) can be positioned to face each other, and the folding region (231c) can be bent.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the folding of the electronic device (101) can be implemented in two ways: 'in-folding', in which the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) are folded to face each other, and 'out-folding', in which the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) are folded to face opposite directions. For example, in a folded state in the in-folding manner, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) can be substantially concealed, and in a fully unfolded state, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) can be arranged to face substantially the same direction. For example, in the folded state in the out-folding manner, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) may be arranged facing in opposite directions and exposed to the outside, and in the fully unfolded state, the first region (231a) and the second region (231b) may be arranged facing in substantially the same direction.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a display panel (not shown) and a window member (not shown), at least a portion of which may be formed to be flexible. Although not separately illustrated, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the first display (230) or the display panel includes various layers, such as a light-emitting layer, a substrate(s) encapsulating the light-emitting layer, an electrode or wiring layer, and / or an adhesive layer(s) bonding adjacent different layers. When the first display (230) (e.g., the folding area (231c)) is deformed into a flat shape and a curved shape, a relative displacement may occur between the layers forming the first display (230). The relative displacement due to the deformation of the first display (230) may increase as the point is further from the folding axis (A) and / or as the thickness of the first display (230) increases.

[0096] In one embodiment, the window member, for example, a thin film plate, may function as a protective film for protecting the display panel. As a protective film, the thin film plate may be made of a material that protects the display panel from external impact, is scratch-resistant, and reduces wrinkles in the folding area (231c) even during repeated folding and unfolding operations of the housings (210, 220). For example, the material of the thin film plate may include a transparent polyimide film (CPI) or an ultra-thin glass (UTG).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a protective member (206)(s) or a decorative cover (218, 228)(s) disposed on at least a portion of an edge of the first display (230) on the front surface (e.g., the first side (210a) or the third side (220a)). As an example, the protective member (206) and the decorative cover (218, 228) may be connected to each other to surround an edge of the first display (230). The protective member (206) or the decorative cover (218, 228) may prevent at least a portion of an edge of the first display (230) from contacting a mechanical structure (e.g., the first housing (210) or the second housing (220)). The protective member (206) or the decorative cover (218, 228) may be visually exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the decorative covers (218, 228) and the protective member (206) may be connected to each other. As an example, the decorative covers (218, 228) and the protective member (206) may be formed integrally. The decorative covers (218, 228) may extend along the folding axis (A). The decorative covers (218, 228) may include a first decorative cover (218) disposed between a portion of an edge of a first area (231a) of the first display (230) and an inner wall of the first housing (210). The decorative covers (218, 228) may include a second decorative cover (228) disposed between a portion of an edge of a second area (231b) of the first display (230) and an inner wall of the second housing (220). As an example, the first decorative cover (218) and the second decorative cover (228) can extend substantially parallel along the folding axis (A).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the speaker hole (245) may be formed in a decorative cover (218) or protective member (206) interposed between the edge of the first area (231a) of the first display (230) and the inner wall of the first housing (210). As an example, the speaker hole (245) may be formed in the first decorative cover (218).

[0100] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 4, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first display (230) may be visually exposed through a significant portion of the front surface of the electronic device (101). In some embodiments, the shape of the first display (230) may be formed to be substantially identical to the outer shape of the front surface of the electronic device (101).

[0102] In FIG. 4, 'Y' may mean the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (101) in the second state. In addition, in one embodiment of the present invention, '+Y' may mean the upward direction of the electronic device (101) with respect to the folding axis (A) of the electronic device (101), and '-Y' may mean the downward direction of the electronic device (101) with respect to the folding axis (A) of the electronic device (101).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing of the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210, 310) and a second housing (220, 320). According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first surface (210a) and a second surface (210b) facing in an opposite direction to the first surface (210a), and the second housing (220) may include a third surface (220a) and a fourth surface (220b) facing in an opposite direction to the third surface (220a). The electronic device (101) or the foldable housing (210, 220, 260) may additionally or alternatively include a bracket assembly (217, 227). The bracket assembly (217, 227) may include a first bracket assembly (217) disposed in a first housing (210) and a second bracket assembly (227) disposed in a second housing (220). At least a portion of the bracket assembly (217, 227), for example, at least a portion of the first bracket assembly (217) and at least a portion of the second bracket assembly (227), may serve as a plate for supporting the hinge structure (270).

[0104] According to one embodiment, various electrical components may be arranged on the printed circuit board (216, 226). For example, the printed circuit board (216, 226) may be equipped with a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1), and / or an interface (e.g., interface (177) of FIG. 1). The processor may include, for example, one or more of a central processing unit, an application processor, a graphics processing unit, an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor. The memory may include, for example, volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The interface may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, and / or an audio interface. The interface may electrically or physically connect the electronic device (101) to an external electronic device, and may include a USB connector, an SD card / MMC connector, or an audio connector.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the printed circuit boards (216, 226) may include a first printed circuit board (216) disposed on the side of the first bracket assembly (217) and a second printed circuit board (226) disposed on the side of the second bracket assembly (227). The first printed circuit board (216) and the second printed circuit board (226) may be disposed inside a space formed by the foldable housing (210, 220, 260), the bracket assembly (217, 227), the first rear cover (240) and / or the second rear cover (250). Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device (101) may be separately disposed on the first printed circuit board (216) and the second printed circuit board (226). For example, a processor may be disposed on the first printed circuit board (216), and an audio interface may be disposed on the second printed circuit board (226).

[0106] In one embodiment, a battery (215, 225) for powering the electronic device (101) may be disposed adjacent to the printed circuit board (216, 226). At least a portion of the battery (215, 225) may be disposed, for example, substantially coplanar with the printed circuit board (216, 226). In one embodiment, a first battery (215) may be disposed adjacent to the first printed circuit board (216), and a second battery (225) may be disposed adjacent to the second printed circuit board (226). The battery (215, 225) may be a device for powering at least one component of the electronic device (101), and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. The battery (215, 225) may be integrally placed inside the foldable housing (210, 220, 260), or may be detachably placed in the foldable housing (210, 220, 260).

[0107] In one embodiment, the hinge structure (270) provides a folding axis (e.g., the folding axis (A) of FIG. 2) and may be configured to rotatably connect or couple the foldable housing (210, 220, 260) and / or the bracket assembly (217, 227). The hinge structure (270) may include a first hinge structure (271) disposed on the first printed circuit board (216) side and a second hinge structure (272) disposed on the second printed circuit board (226) side. The hinge structure (270) may be disposed between the first printed circuit board (216) and the second printed circuit board (226). In one embodiment, the hinge structure (270) may be substantially integrally formed with at least a portion of the first bracket assembly (217) and at least a portion of the second bracket assembly (227).

[0108] According to one embodiment, a 'housing structure' may refer to a foldable housing (210, 220, 260) and at least one component disposed inside the foldable housing (210, 220, 260) assembled and / or coupled. The housing structure may include a first housing structure and a second housing structure. For example, an assembled configuration including at least one of a first housing (210), a first bracket assembly (217) disposed inside the first housing (210), a first printed circuit board (216), and a first battery (215) may be referred to as a 'first housing structure'. In another example, an assembled configuration including at least one of a second housing (220), a second bracket assembly (227) disposed inside the second housing (220), a second printed circuit board (226), and a second battery (225) may be referred to as a 'second housing structure'. However, it should be noted that the 'first housing structure and second housing structure' here are not limited to the addition of the above-described components, and may additionally include or omit various other components.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the flexible connecting member (280) may be, for example, a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The flexible connecting member (280) may connect various electrical components arranged on the first printed circuit board (216) and the second printed circuit board (226). To this end, the flexible connecting member (280) may be arranged to cross the 'first housing structure' and the 'second housing structure'. According to one embodiment, the flexible connecting member (280) may be arranged to cross at least a portion of the hinge structure (270). According to one embodiment, the flexible connecting member (280) may be configured to connect the first printed circuit board (216) and the second printed circuit board (226) across the hinge structure (270) along a direction parallel to the y-axis of FIG. 4, for example. For example, the flexible connecting member (280) may include a central portion (281) disposed on one side (e.g., the upper portion) of the hinge cover (260). For example, the flexible connecting member (280) may include a first curved portion (282) disposed on one side (e.g., the upper portion) of the hinge cover (260) and the first bracket assembly (217). For example, the flexible connecting member (280) may include a second curved portion (283) disposed on one side (e.g., the upper portion) of the hinge cover (260) and the second bracket assembly (227). The first curved portion (282) and the second curved portion (283) may have a shape that is convexly curved in one side (e.g., the upper portion) when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2). For example, the flexible connecting member (280) may include a first extension portion (284) that is connected to the first bend portion (282), penetrates the first housing (210) (e.g., the first bracket assembly (217)), and extends from the other side (e.g., the lower side) of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first bracket assembly (217)).For example, the flexible connecting member (280) may include a second flexible member (285) that is connected to the second bending member (283), penetrates the second housing (220) (e.g., the second bracket assembly (227)), and extends from the other side (e.g., the lower side) of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second bracket assembly (227)). A space (hereinafter, referred to as a “wiring space”) surrounded by at least a portion of the first hinge structure (271), at least a portion of the second hinge structure (272), and at least a portion of the hinge cover (260) may be formed adjacent to the first hinge structure (271) and the second hinge structure (272). According to one embodiment, at least a portion (281, 282, 283) of the flexible connecting member (280) may be disposed within the wiring space.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first holder assembly (286) and a second holder assembly (287). The first holder assembly (286) and the second holder assembly (287) may be disposed on one side (e.g., the upper side) of the flexible connecting member (280). The first holder assembly (286) may be fixed to the first housing (210) (e.g., the first bracket assembly (217)), and the second holder assembly (287) may be fixed to the second housing (220) (e.g., the second bracket assembly (227)). The first holder assembly (286) and the second holder assembly (287) may fix the flexible connecting member (280) to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), respectively.

[0111] In one embodiment, the hinge cover (260) may be configured to accommodate or enclose at least a portion of the hinge structure (270) or the wiring space. In some embodiments, the hinge cover (260) may form a wiring space together with the hinge structure (270) and protect a component (e.g., at least a portion (283) of the flexible connecting member (280)) disposed within the wiring space from external impact. In one embodiment, the hinge cover (260) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In the in-folding type electronic device (101), the hinge cover (260) may be at least partially concealed by the foldable housing (210, 220, 260). For example, in the folded state, the hinge cover (260) may be visually exposed to the external space between the rear surface of the first housing (210) (e.g., the first rear cover (240)) and the rear surface of the second housing (220) (e.g., the second rear cover (250)), and in the unfolded state, it may be substantially accommodated within the interior of the first housing (210) or the second housing (220) and visually concealed.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the antenna module (219, 229) (e.g., antenna module (197) of FIG. 1) may be disposed between the rear cover (240, 250) and the battery (215, 225). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (219, 229) may include a first antenna module (219) disposed on the first housing (210) side and a second antenna module (229) disposed on the second housing (220) side. The antenna module (219, 229) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna, thereby enabling short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmitting and receiving power required for charging. In one embodiment, the antenna structure may be formed by a portion or combination of the side bezel structure and / or the bracket assembly of the foldable housing (210, 220, 260).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the rear cover (240, 250) may include a first rear cover (240) and a second rear cover (250). The rear cover (240, 250) may be combined with the foldable housing (210, 220, 260) to protect the above-described components (e.g., a printed circuit board (216, 226), a battery (215, 225), a flexible connecting member (280), or an antenna module (219, 229)) disposed within the foldable housing (210, 220, 260). As described above, the rear cover (240, 250) may be formed substantially integrally with the foldable housing (210, 220, 260).

[0114] In one embodiment, the protective member (206) and / or the decorative cover (218, 228) can protect at least a portion of an edge of the first display (230). The protective member (206) can be positioned between an edge of a first area (231a, see FIG. 2) of the first display (230) and an inner wall of the first housing (210) and / or between an edge of a second area (231b, see FIG. 2) of the first display (230) and an inner wall of the second housing (220) to prevent the edge of the first display (230) from directly contacting the inner walls of the housings (210, 220).

[0115] FIG. 5 is a plan view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a plan view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] Specifically, FIG. 5 is an enlarged plan view of the folding area (231c) and its surrounding area of ​​FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the state in which the first hinge plate (381) and the second hinge plate (382) of FIG. 5 are removed. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the folding area (231c) and its surrounding area of ​​FIG. 2.

[0117] The detailed configuration of a foldable electronic device (301) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which is not described below, may be the same as the detailed configuration of an electronic device (101) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0118] Hereinafter, the 'first lateral direction' may mean the direction parallel to the folding axis (F), which is the +X direction toward the central axis (C) based on the first hinge structure (320a) in FIGS. 5 and 6. The 'second lateral direction' may mean the direction opposite to the first lateral direction (+X direction), which may mean the -X direction based on FIGS. 5 and 6. The 'third lateral direction' may mean the direction perpendicular to the first lateral direction (+X direction), which may mean the +Y direction, which is the upward direction based on FIGS. 5 and 6. The 'fourth lateral direction' may mean the -Y direction, which is the downward direction based on FIGS. 5 and 6, which is the opposite to the third lateral direction (+Y direction).

[0119] Hereinafter, the 'first thickness direction' may mean a direction that is perpendicular to the first lateral direction (+X direction) to the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction) and faces the flexible display (360) with respect to the hinge module (320), and may mean the +Z direction with respect to FIGS. 5 to 7. The 'second thickness direction' may mean a direction opposite to the first thickness direction (+Z direction), and may mean the -Z direction with respect to FIGS. 5 to 7.

[0120] Hereinafter, 'outer' may mean a direction away from the central axis (C) based on a direction parallel to the folding axis (F). 'Inner' may mean a direction approaching the central axis (C) based on a direction parallel to the folding axis (F). The central axis (C) may mean an axis extending across the central portion of the first housing portion (311) and the central portion of the second housing portion (312) in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (F) when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2).

[0121] Hereinafter, the specific structure not described in relation to the second housing portion (312) area can be understood as being symmetrical to the specific structure described in relation to the first housing portion (311) area with respect to the folding axis (F).

[0122] Hereinafter, the first hinge structure (320a) can be understood to have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the second hinge structure (320b) with respect to the central axis (C).

[0123] Hereinafter, a foldable electronic device (301) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a foldable housing (310), a hinge module (320), a hinge cover (350), a flexible display (360), a flexible circuit board (370), a hinge plate (381, 382), and a holder assembly (391, 392), but some of these may be omitted and implemented, and additional configurations are not excluded.

[0124] According to one embodiment, a foldable electronic device (301) may include a foldable housing (310). The foldable housing (310) may include a first housing portion (311) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2 to 4) and a second housing portion (312) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2 to 4) that are rotatably coupled by a hinge module (320).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the first housing portion (311) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the third-side direction (+Y direction) side) of the folding axis (F) with respect to the folding axis (F). The first housing portion (311) may be connected to a hinge module (320). The first housing portion (311) may be referred to as a 'housing'.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the first housing portion (311) may include a first support member (3111) (e.g., the first bracket assembly (217) of FIG. 4). For example, the first support member (3111) may be understood as being a part of the first housing portion (311). For example, the first support member (3111) may be understood as being a configuration provided separately from the first housing portion (311), and being arranged within the first housing portion (311) and coupled to the first housing portion (311). A flexible display (360) and / or a hinge module (320) may be mounted on the first support member (3111). The first support member (3111) may be referred to as a 'support member'.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (312) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing portion (311). The second housing portion (312) may be disposed on the other side (e.g., the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction) side) of the folding axis (F) with respect to the folding axis (F). The second housing portion (312) may be connected to a hinge module (320). The second housing portion (312) may be rotated with respect to the first housing portion (311) with respect to the folding axis (F), and accordingly, the foldable electronic device (301) may be converted from an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). The second housing portion (312) may be referred to as a 'housing'.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the second housing portion (312) may include a second support member (3121) (e.g., the second bracket assembly (227) of FIG. 4). For example, the second support member (3121) may be understood as being a part of the second housing portion (312). For example, the second support member (3121) may be understood as being a configuration provided separately from the second housing portion (312), and being arranged within the second housing portion (312) and coupled to the second housing portion (312). The flexible display (360) and / or the hinge module (320) may be mounted on the second support member (3121). The second support member (3121) may be referred to as a 'support member'.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a hinge module (320) (e.g., the hinge structure (270) of FIG. 4). The hinge module (320) may be disposed between the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312). The hinge module (320) may be connected to the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312). The hinge module (320) may rotatably couple the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312) about a folding axis (F) located between the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first hinge structure (320a), a second hinge structure (320b), and a center bar (340). Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first hinge structure (320a) may be a portion of the hinge module (320) that is positioned adjacent to an edge of the foldable housing (310) facing a first side direction (+X direction). Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the second hinge structure (320b) may be a portion of the hinge module (320) that is positioned adjacent to an edge of the foldable housing (310) facing a second side direction (-X direction). The first hinge structure (320a) and the second hinge structure (320b) may have a structure that is line-symmetrical with respect to the central axis (C), or may have a structure that is point-symmetrical with respect to the point where the central axis (C) and the folding axis (F) intersect. The first hinge structure (320a) and the second hinge structure (320b) may be connected by a center bar (340).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a hinge cover (350) (e.g., the hinge cover (260) of FIGS. 3 and 4 ). The hinge cover (350) may be disposed between the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312). The hinge cover (350) may be disposed between the first housing portion (311) and the hinge module (320). The hinge cover (350) may be disposed between the second housing portion (311) and the hinge module (320). The hinge cover (350) may be disposed on the opposite side of the flexible display (360) with respect to the hinge module (320). For example, the hinge cover (350) may be disposed on a side, in the second thickness direction (-Z direction), of the hinge module (320). The hinge cover (350) may cover at least a portion of the hinge module (320). For example, the hinge cover (350) may cover a side of the hinge module (320) facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction), at least a portion of an end (e.g., an outer end) of the hinge module (320) facing the first side direction (+X direction), and at least a portion of an end (e.g., an outer end) of the hinge module (320) facing the second side direction (-X direction).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (350) may include a second body portion (351). The second body portion (351) may be disposed on a side, in a direction in which the center bar (340) descends, of the hinge module (320). For example, the second body portion (351) may be disposed on a second thickness direction (-Z direction) side of the hinge module (320). The second body portion (351) may be a portion that faces the outside when the foldable electronic device (301) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (350) may include a wall portion (352). The wall portion (352) may extend toward the flexible display (360) from both ends (e.g., an end facing the first side direction (+X direction) of the second body portion (351) and an end facing the second side direction (-X direction). For example, the wall portion (352) may protrude (or extend) in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) from the end facing the first side direction (+X direction) of the second body portion (351) and the end facing the second side direction (-X direction). The wall portion (352) may be disposed on both sides of the hinge module (320). For example, the wall portion (352) disposed at the end facing the first side direction (+X direction) of the hinge cover (350) may be disposed on the outside of the end facing the first side direction (+X direction) of the hinge module (320), and the wall portion (352) disposed at the end facing the second side direction (-X direction) of the hinge cover (350) may be disposed on the outside of the end facing the second side direction (-X direction) of the hinge module (320).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a flexible display (360) (e.g., the first display (230) of FIGS. 2 and 4). The flexible display (360) may be disposed on the first housing portion (311), the second housing portion (312), the first hinge plate (381), the second hinge plate (382), and / or the center bar (340). For example, the flexible display (360) may be disposed on a first support member (3111) (e.g., the first bracket assembly (217) of FIG. 4) constituting a portion of the first housing portion (311) and a second support member (3121) (e.g., the second bracket assembly (227) of FIG. 4) constituting a portion of the second housing portion (312).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (360) may be supported by the first hinge plate (381), the second hinge plate (382), and / or the center bar (340). For example, when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state, the folding area (e.g., the folding area (231c) of FIG. 2) of the flexible display (360) and an adjacent portion thereof may be arranged on a surface facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction) of the first hinge plate (381), the second hinge plate (382), and the center bar (340), and may be supported in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) by the first hinge plate (381) and the second hinge plate (382).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a flexible circuit board (370) (e.g., the flexible connecting member (280) of FIG. 4 ). The flexible circuit board (370) may be disposed in the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312). For example, the flexible circuit board (370) may be disposed across the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312).

[0137] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible circuit board (370) may be disposed between the first housing portion (311) and the first hinge plate (381). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible circuit board (370) may be disposed between the second housing portion (312) and the second hinge plate (382). For example, the flexible circuit board (370) may be disposed on the first thickness direction (+Z direction) side of the first housing portion (311) (e.g., the first support member (3111)), the second housing portion (312) (e.g., the second support member (3121)), and the hinge cover (350) in an area overlapping the first hinge plate (381) and / or the second hinge plate (382) (e.g., the folding area (231c) of FIG. 2). In a region that does not overlap with the first hinge plate (381) and / or the second hinge plate (382), the second thickness direction (-Z direction) side of the first housing portion (311) (e.g., the first support member (3111)) and the second housing portion (312) (e.g., the second support member (3121)) may be disposed. The flexible circuit board (370) may extend through the first housing portion (311) (e.g., the first support member (3111)) and the second housing portion (312) (e.g., the second support member (3121)).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the flexible circuit board (370) may be at least partially covered by the first hinge plate (381) and / or the second hinge plate (382). For example, a portion of the flexible circuit board (370) may be covered in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) by the first hinge plate (381) and the second hinge plate (382).

[0139] According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 5, the portion of the flexible circuit board (370) covered by the first hinge plate (381) and / or the second hinge plate (382) may be disposed in a central region of the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312) with respect to the direction in which the folding axis (F) extends (e.g., the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction)). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the portion of the flexible circuit board (370) covered by the first hinge plate (381) and / or the second hinge plate (382) may also be disposed at a position that is biased toward one side of the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312) with respect to the direction in which the folding axis (F) extends.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a first holder assembly (391). The first holder assembly (391) may be disposed between the first housing portion (311) and the first hinge plate (381). The first holder assembly (391) may be disposed between the flexible circuit board (370) and the first hinge plate (381). The first holder assembly (391) may be disposed over at least a portion of the flexible circuit board (370). The first holder assembly (391) may be fixed to the first housing portion (311). The first holder assembly (391) may fix the flexible circuit board (370) to the first housing portion (311).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a first holder assembly (382). The first holder assembly (382) may be disposed between the second housing portion (312) and the second hinge plate (382). The second holder assembly (392) may be disposed between the flexible circuit board (370) and the second hinge plate (382). The second holder assembly (392) may be disposed over at least a portion of the flexible circuit board (370). The first holder assembly (382) may be secured to the second housing portion (312). The first holder assembly (382) may secure the flexible circuit board (370) to the second housing portion (312).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a first hinge plate (381). The first hinge plate (381) may be disposed in an area of ​​the first housing portion (311). The first hinge plate (381) may be disposed at a position adjacent to the folding axis (F). The first hinge plate (381) may be disposed between the first housing portion (311) and the flexible display (360). For example, the first hinge plate (381) may be disposed on a first thickness direction (+Z direction) side of the first housing portion (311). The first hinge plate (381) may be fixed to a surface of the first housing portion (311) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction). For example, the first hinge plate (381) may be fixed to the hinge module (320) and / or the first support member (3111). The first hinge plate (381) may cover at least a portion of the hinge module (320). The first hinge plate (381) may be referred to as a 'hinge plate'.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the first hinge plate (381) can support the flexible display (360). For example, the first hinge plate (381) can support the flexible display (360) in the first thickness direction (+Z direction). For example, the first hinge plate (381) can support a folding area (e.g., the folding area (231c) of FIG. 2) of the flexible display (360) and / or an area adjacent thereto.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a second hinge plate (382). The second hinge plate (382) may be disposed in an area of ​​the second housing portion (312). The second hinge plate (382) may be disposed at a position adjacent to the folding axis (F). The second hinge plate (382) may be disposed between the second housing portion (312) and the flexible display (360). For example, the second hinge plate (382) may be disposed on a first thickness direction (+Z direction) side of the second housing portion (312). The second hinge plate (382) may be fixed to a surface of the second housing portion (312) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction). For example, the second hinge plate (382) may be secured to the hinge module (320) and / or the second support member (3121). The second hinge plate (382) may cover at least a portion of the hinge module (320). The second hinge plate (382) may be referred to as a 'hinge plate'.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the second hinge plate (382) can support the flexible display (360). For example, the second hinge plate (382) can support the flexible display (360) in the first thickness direction (+Z direction). For example, the second hinge plate (382) can support a folding area (e.g., the folding area (231c) of FIG. 2) of the flexible display (360) and / or an area adjacent thereto.

[0146] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state, at least a portion of a non-overlapping area of ​​the first hinge plate (381) in a lateral direction (e.g., a third lateral direction (+Y direction) and / or a fourth lateral direction (-Y direction)) and at least a portion of a non-overlapping area of ​​the second hinge plate (382) in a lateral direction (e.g., a third lateral direction (+Y direction) and / or a fourth lateral direction (-Y direction)) with the center bar (340) may protrude toward the folding axis (F). For example, a portion of the first hinge plate (381) disposed on the outer side of the end of the center bar (340) may protrude in a direction (e.g., a fourth lateral direction (-Y direction)) toward the folding axis (F) with respect to the center bar (340). For example, a portion of the second hinge plate (382) positioned on the outer side of the end of the center bar (340) may protrude in a direction toward the folding axis (F) (e.g., in the third lateral direction (+Y direction)) with respect to the center bar (340). For example, the distance (d1) between the area disposed on the outside of the end of the first hinge plate (381) facing the first side direction (+X direction) of the center bar (340) and the area disposed on the outside of the end of the second hinge plate (382) facing the first side direction (+X direction) of the center bar (340) and / or the distance (d2) between the area disposed on the outside of the end of the first hinge plate (381) facing the second side direction (-X direction) of the center bar (340) and the area disposed on the outside of the end of the second hinge plate (382) facing the second side direction (-X direction) of the center bar (340) may be smaller than the distance (d3) between the central area of ​​the first hinge plate (381) and the central area of ​​the second hinge plate (382).For example, the distance (d1, d2) between the center bar (340) and the non-overlapping area in the lateral direction (e.g., the third lateral direction (+Y direction) and / or the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction)) among the first hinge plate (381) and the second hinge plate (382) may be smaller than the distance (d3) between the center bar (340) and the lateral direction (e.g., the third lateral direction (+Y direction) and / or the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction)) among the first hinge plate (381) and the second hinge plate (382). Through this, the area of ​​the hinge plates (371, 372) on which the flexible display (360) can be supported can be increased in the areas on both sides of the first hinge plate (381) and the second hinge plate (382) where an empty space is formed between the flexible display (360) and the hinge module (320), so that the flexible display (360) can be effectively supported in the areas on both sides of the hinge plates (371, 372).

[0147] According to one embodiment, an end of the first hinge plate (381) facing the first side direction (+X direction) and an end of the second hinge plate (382) facing the first side direction (+X direction) may be adjacent to each other. According to one embodiment, an end of the first hinge plate (381) facing the second side direction (-X direction) and an end of the second hinge plate (382) facing the second side direction (-X direction) may be adjacent to each other. Through this, an edge portion of the folding area (e.g., the folding area (231c) of FIG. 2), which is one of the areas with the highest risk of damage, of the flexible display (360) can be effectively supported by the hinge plates (371, 372).

[0148] FIG. 8 is a plan view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0149] Specifically, FIG. 9 is a plan view showing an enlarged view of a second hinge structure (320b) area of ​​a hinge module (320) with the first hinge plate (381) and the second hinge plate (382) removed. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the second hinge structure (320b) and the center bar (340) of the hinge module (320). FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device (301) (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) taken along line A-A' of FIG. 8. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a folded state of a foldable electronic device (301) (e.g., the state of FIG. 3) taken along line A-A' of FIG. 8. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of Fig. 8, showing an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device (301) (e.g., the state of Fig. 2). Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of Fig. 8, showing a folded state of a foldable electronic device (301) (e.g., the state of Fig. 3).

[0150] Hereinafter, the specific structure of the hinge module (320) will be described based on the second hinge structure (320b) illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7. The specific structure of the first hinge structure (320a), which is not described below, may be line-symmetrical to the specific structure of the second hinge structure (320b) described below based on the central axis (C) of FIGS. 5 and 6, or point-symmetrical to the specific structure of the second hinge structure (320b) described below based on the intersection of the central axis (C) and the folding axis (F) of FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a hinge bracket (321). The hinge bracket (321) may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the opposite edges of the foldable housing (310). For example, the hinge bracket (321) positioned in the first hinge structure (320a) may be positioned adjacent to an edge (e.g., an outer edge) facing the second side (-X direction) of the foldable housing (310). The hinge bracket (321) may be fixed to the hinge cover (350). The hinge bracket (321) may be fixed to the hinge cover (350) during the opening and closing process of the foldable electronic device (301).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the hinge bracket (321) may be formed with a third receiving space (S3) capable of receiving a first rotate member (3311) and a fourth receiving space (S4) capable of receiving a second rotate member (3312). The third receiving space (S3) may be formed at a position corresponding to a position of the first rotate member (3311), and the fourth receiving space (S4) may be formed at a position corresponding to a position of the second rotate member (3312). For example, the third receiving space (S3) may be formed at a position partially overlapping the folding axis (F) but eccentric toward the first housing portion (311). The fourth receiving space (S4) may be formed at a position partially overlapping the folding axis (F) but eccentric toward the second housing portion (312). The third receiving space (S3) and the fourth receiving space (S4) can be arranged along the direction in which the folding axis (F) extends (e.g., the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction)).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the hinge bracket (321) may include a third rail (3211). The third rail (3211) may protrude from a side surface of the third receiving space (S3). For example, the third rail (3211) may protrude from at least one of a side (e.g., an inner side) facing a first lateral direction (+X direction) of the third receiving space (S3) or a side (e.g., an outer side) facing a second lateral direction (-X direction). The third rail (3211) may be formed in an arc shape centered on a third axis (Ax3). The third rail (3211) may be inserted into a third rail groove (3311a) formed on a side surface of the first rotate member (3311). Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the third rail (3211) and the third rail groove (3311a) can slide along an arc-shaped path relative to each other about the third axis (Ax3). The third rail (3211) may be part of a "third rail structure." For example, the third rail structure may include the third rail (3211).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the hinge bracket (321) may include a fourth rail (3212). The fourth rail (3212) may protrude from a side surface of the fourth receiving space (S4). For example, the fourth rail (3212) may protrude from at least one of a side (e.g., an inner side) facing a first lateral direction (+X direction) of the fourth receiving space (S4) or a side (e.g., an outer side) facing a second lateral direction (-X direction) of the fourth receiving space (S4). The fourth rail (3212) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the fourth axis (Ax4). The fourth rail (3212) may be inserted into a fourth rail groove (3312a) formed on a side surface of the second rotate member (3312). Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the fourth rail (3212) and the fourth rail groove (3312a) can slide along an arc-shaped path relative to each other about the fourth axis (Ax4). The fourth rail (3212) can be part of a 'fourth rail structure'.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first shaft (3221). The first shaft (3221) may extend in a first lateral direction (+X direction) (e.g., inwardly) from the hinge bracket (321). For example, the first shaft (3221) may extend from the hinge bracket (321) in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) toward a central axis (C) extending perpendicularly to the folding axis (F) (e.g., inwardly). An end (e.g., an outer end) of the first shaft (3221) facing the second lateral direction (-X direction) may be connected to the hinge bracket (321). The first shaft (3221) may rotate about a first axis (Ax1) parallel to the folding axis (F). For example, the central axis (or rotation axis) of the first shaft (3221) may coincide with the first axis (Ax1), which is the rotation axis of the first arm (3261).

[0156] In one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a second shaft (3222). The second shaft (3222) may extend in a first lateral direction (+X direction) (e.g., inwardly) from the hinge bracket (321). For example, the second shaft (3222) may extend from the hinge bracket (321) toward a central axis (C) in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., inwardly). An end (e.g., an outer end) of the second shaft (3222) facing the second lateral direction (-X direction) may be connected to the hinge bracket (321). The second shaft (3222) may rotate about a second axis (Ax2) parallel to the folding axis (F). For example, the central axis (or rotation axis) of the second shaft (3222) may coincide with the second axis (Ax2), which is the rotation axis of the second arm (3262).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first gear (3231). The first gear (3231) may be disposed on a first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., inner side) of the hinge bracket (321). The first gear (3231) may be disposed between the first arm (3261) and the hinge bracket (321). The first gear (3231) may be disposed between the gear bracket (325) and the hinge bracket (321). The first gear (3231) may be disposed coaxially with the first shaft (3221). The first gear (3231) may be fixed to the first shaft (3221). The first gear (3231) may rotate about a first axis (Ax1) together with the first shaft (3221). The first gear (3231) can be connected to the first linkage gear (3241). For example, the teeth formed on the outer surface of the first gear (3231) can mesh with the teeth (T) formed on the outer surface of the first linkage gear (3241).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a second gear (3232). The second gear (3232) may be disposed on a first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., inner side) of the hinge bracket (321). The second gear (3232) may be disposed between the second arm (3262) and the hinge bracket (321). The second gear (3232) may be disposed between the gear bracket (325) and the hinge bracket (321). The second gear (3232) may be fixed to a second shaft (3222). The second gear (3232) may be disposed coaxially with the second shaft (3222). The second gear (3232) may rotate about a second axis (Ax2) together with the second shaft (3222). The second gear (3232) can be connected to the second linkage gear (3242). For example, the teeth formed on the outer surface of the second gear (3232) can mesh with the teeth (T) formed on the outer surface of the second linkage gear (3242).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first linkage gear (3241) and a second linkage gear (3242). The first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) may be arranged between the first gear (3231) and the second gear (3232). The first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (F) (e.g., in the third lateral direction (+Y direction) and / or in the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction)). The first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) may link the rotation of the first gear (3231) and the second gear (3232). For example, the first linkage gear (3241) can mesh with the first gear (3231), the second linkage gear (3242) can mesh with the second gear (3232), and the first linkage gear (3241) can mesh with the second linkage gear (3242). The first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) can link the rotation of the first housing portion (311) and the rotation of the second housing portion (312) with each other. For example, the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) can make the rotation angle of the first housing portion (311) and the rotation angle of the second housing portion (312) the same with respect to the hinge cover (350). The first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) can enable the implementation of an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (301).

[0160] In one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a gear bracket (325). The gear bracket (325) may be connected to a first shaft (3221) and a second shaft (3222). For example, the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222) may pass through the gear bracket (325). The gear bracket (325) may be disposed on a first lateral (+X direction) side (e.g., an inner side) of the first gear (3231), the second gear (3232), the first linkage gear (3241), and the second linkage gear (3242). The gear bracket (325) may be disposed between the first gear (3231) and the first arm (3261) and between the second gear (3232) and the second arm (3262). The gear bracket (325) can fix the positions of the first gear (3231) and the second gear (3232), and prevent wear and / or damage to the parts due to friction between the first gear (3231) and the first arm (3261) and between the second gear (3232) and the second arm (3262) due to rotation of the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222).

[0161] In one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first arm (3261). The first arm (3261) may be fixed to a first shaft (3221). The first arm (3261) may be disposed on a first lateral (+X direction) side (e.g., inner side) of the first gear (3231) and / or the gear bracket (325). The first arm (3261) may be disposed between the cam member (327) and the gear bracket (325). The first arm (3261) may rotate about a first axis (Ax1) together with the first shaft (3221). The first arm (3261) may extend from the first axis (Ax1) toward the first housing portion (311). For example, the first arm (3261) may extend from the first axis (Ax1) in the third lateral direction (+Y direction) when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the first arm (3261) may be secured to the first connecting member (3321). For example, a portion of the first arm (3261) may be disposed in a first receiving space (S1) formed in the first connecting member (3321). For example, it may be understood that one side of the first arm (3261) is fixed to the first shaft (3221), and the other side of the first arm (3261) is disposed in the first connecting member (3321) (e.g., the first receiving space (S1) formed in the first connecting member (3321). The first arm (3261) may be configured to slide linearly with respect to the first connecting member (3321) while the foldable electronic device (301) is changed between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). For example, while the foldable electronic device (301) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the first connecting member (3321) can slide linearly relative to the first arm (3261) and move away from the first arm (3261).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the first arm (3261) may include a first rail groove (3261a). The first rail groove (3261a) may be formed on a side surface of the first arm (3261). For example, the first rail groove (3261a) may be formed on at least one of a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing a first lateral direction (+X direction) of the first arm (3261) or a surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing a second lateral direction (-X direction). The first rail groove (3261a) may extend in a direction inclined in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) with respect to the third lateral direction (+Y direction) as it moves away from the first axis (Ax1) when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., a state of FIG. 2). The first rail (3321a) formed on the first connecting member (3321) can be seated in the first rail groove (3261a). The first rail groove (3261a) can be part of the 'first rail structure'.

[0164] In one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a second arm (3262). The second arm (3262) may be fixed to a second shaft (3222). The second arm (3262) may be disposed on a first lateral (+X direction) side (e.g., inner side) of the second gear (3232) and / or the gear bracket (325). The second arm (3262) may be disposed between the cam member (327) and the gear bracket (325). The second arm (3262) may rotate about a second axis (Ax2) together with the second shaft (3222). The second arm (3262) may extend from the second axis (Ax2) toward the second housing portion (312). For example, the second arm (3262) may extend from the second axis (Ax2) in the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction) when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2).

[0165] In one embodiment, the second arm (3262) may be secured to the second connecting member (3322). For example, a portion of the second arm (3262) may be disposed in a second receiving space (S2) formed in the second connecting member (3322). For example, it may be understood that one side of the second arm (3262) is fixed to the second shaft (3222), and the other side of the second arm (3262) is disposed in the second connecting member (3322) (e.g., the second receiving space (S2) formed in the second connecting member (3322). The second arm (3262) may be configured to slide linearly with respect to the second connecting member (3322) while the foldable electronic device (301) is changed between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). For example, while the foldable electronic device (301) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the second connecting member (3322) can slide linearly relative to the second arm (3262) and move away from the second arm (3262).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the second arm (3262) may include a second rail groove (3262a). The second rail groove (3262a) may be formed on a side surface of the second arm (3262). For example, the second rail groove (3262a) may be formed on at least one of a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing a first lateral direction (+X direction) of the second arm (3262) or a surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing a second lateral direction (-X direction). The second rail groove (3262a) may extend in a direction inclined from the second axis (Ax2) toward the first thickness direction (+Z direction) with respect to the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction) when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2). The second rail (3322a) formed on the second connecting member (3322) can be seated in the second rail groove (3262a). The second rail groove (3262a) can be part of a 'second rail structure'.

[0167] According to one embodiment, a first cam structure (CS1) may be formed on the first arm (3261) and the second arm (3262). The first cam structure (CS1) may be formed on a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing the first lateral direction (+X direction) of the first arm (3261) and the second arm (3262). The first cam structure (CS1) may be formed around each of the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222). A valley portion and a peak portion may be formed on the first cam structure (CS1). The valley portions and the peak portions may be alternately arranged along the periphery of each of the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222). According to one embodiment, the first cam structure (CS1) may include an inclined portion formed between each of the valley portions and the peak portions. The first cam structure (CS1) may be part of the 'cam structure (CS)'.

[0168] In one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a cam member (327). The cam member (327) may be connected to a first shaft (3221) and a second shaft (3222). For example, the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222) may pass through the cam member (327). The cam member (327) may be disposed on a first lateral (+X direction) side (e.g., an inner side) of the first arm (3261) and the second arm (3262). For example, the cam member (327) may be disposed between the first elastic member (3281) and the first arm (3261) and between the second elastic member (3282) and the second arm (3262). The cam member (327) can be pressed in the second lateral direction (-X direction) (e.g., outward) by an elastic member (3281, 3282) disposed on the first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., inward) of the cam member (327).

[0169] According to one embodiment, a second cam structure (CS2) may be formed on the cam member (327). The second cam structure (CS2) may be formed on a surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing the second lateral direction (-X direction) of the cam member (327). The second cam structure (CS2) may be formed around each of the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222). The second cam structure (CS2) may have a grooved portion and a mountain-shaped portion. The grooved portion and the mountain-shaped portion may be alternately arranged along the periphery of each of the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222). According to one embodiment, the second cam structure (CS2) may include an inclined portion formed between each of the grooved portion and the mountain-shaped portion. The second cam structure (CS2) may have a shape corresponding to that of the first cam structure (CS1) formed on each of the first arm (3261) and the second arm (3262). The second cam structure (CS2) may be part of the 'cam structure'.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first elastic member (3281). The first elastic member (3281) may be disposed on the first shaft (3221). For example, the first elastic member (3281) may be disposed to surround an outer circumferential surface of the first shaft (3221). The first elastic member (3281) may be disposed on a first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., inner side) of the cam member (327). For example, the first elastic member (3281) may be disposed between the cam member (327) and the shaft bracket (329).

[0171] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a second elastic member (3282). The second elastic member (3282) may be disposed on the second shaft (3222). For example, the second elastic member (3282) may be disposed to surround an outer circumferential surface of the second shaft (3222). The second elastic member (3282) may be disposed on a first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., an inner side) of the cam member (327). For example, the second elastic member (3282) may be disposed between the cam member (327) and the shaft bracket (329). The first elastic member (3281) and the second elastic member (3282) may be referred to as 'elastic members (3281, 3282)'.

[0172] According to one embodiment, the elastic members (3281, 3282) can urge the cam member (327) toward the first arm (3261) and the second arm (3262) (e.g., in the second lateral direction (-X direction)). For example, the elastic members (3281, 3282) can be provided in a spring type.

[0173] According to one embodiment, the posture of the foldable electronic device (301) can be controlled through the cam structure. For example, when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) and / or a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the first cam structure (CS1) and the second cam structure (CS2) can be in a mating state with each other. The mating state can mean a state in which the ridged portion of the first cam structure (CS1) is seated (or in close contact) with the valleyd portion of the second cam structure (CS2), and the ridged portion of the second cam structure (CS2) is seated (or in close contact) with the valleyd portion of the first cam structure (CS1). For example, the mating state can mean a state in which the first cam structure (CS1) and the second cam structure (CS2) are in close contact with each other and are interlocked. When the cam structure is in a matching state, the cam member (327) is pressed toward the first arm (3261) and the second arm (3262) by the elastic member (3281, 3282), so that when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) or a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), if no external force is applied to fold or unfold the foldable electronic device (301) or the external force is less than a predetermined value, the posture of the unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) or the folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3) of the foldable electronic device (301) can be maintained.

[0174] According to one embodiment, an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (301) can be maintained through the cam structure. The intermediate state may mean a state in which the foldable electronic device (301) is neither fully unfolded nor fully folded, and the first housing portion (311) and the second housing portion (312) form an angle between 0 degrees and 180 degrees with respect to each other. When a user applies an external force greater than a predetermined level to fold the foldable electronic device (301) in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) or applies an external force greater than a predetermined level to unfold the foldable electronic device (301) in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the first cam structure (CS1) and the second cam structure (CS2) can be converted from an aligned state to an unaligned state. The misaligned state may mean a state in which the ridge portion of the first cam structure (CS1) is not completely engaged with the groove portion of the second cam structure (CS2), and the ridge portion of the second cam structure (CS2) is not completely engaged with the groove portion of the first cam structure (CS1). In the misaligned state, the cam member (327) may be in a state in which it is retracted in the first lateral direction (+X direction) from the first arm (3261) and the second arm (3262) compared to when it is in the aligned state. Even when the cam structures are in the misaligned state, since the cam member (327) is pressed toward the first arm (3261) and the second arm (3262) by the elastic members (3281, 3282), a static frictional force may be applied between the first cam structure (CS1) and the second cam structure (CS2). Through this, even if the user's external force is released when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an intermediate state, the cam structure can maintain the misaligned state, and further, the foldable electronic device (301) can maintain the intermediate state posture. The function of the foldable electronic device (301) maintaining the intermediate state may be referred to as a 'free stop' function or a 'flex mode' function.

[0175] In one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a shaft bracket (329). The shaft bracket (329) may be connected to a first shaft (3221) and a second shaft (3222). For example, the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222) may pass through the shaft bracket (329). The shaft bracket (329) may be disposed on a first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., an inner side) of the elastic members (3281, 3282). The shaft bracket (329) may be disposed adjacent to a second lateral direction (-X direction)-facing side (e.g., an outer side) of the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302). For example, the shaft bracket (329) can be placed between the first washer (3301) and the first elastic member (3281) and between the second washer (3302) and the second elastic member (3282). The shaft bracket (329) can support the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222).

[0176] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first washer (3301). The first washer (3301) may be disposed on a first lateral (+X direction) side (e.g., inner side) of the first arm (3261). The first washer (3301) may be disposed on a first lateral (+X direction) side of the shaft bracket (329). For example, the first washer (3301) may be disposed adjacent to a surface of the shaft bracket (329) facing the first lateral (+X direction). The first washer (3301) may be fixed to the first shaft (3221). The first washer (3301) may be configured to rotate together with the first shaft (3221). The first washer (3301) may include a ring-shaped first washer body portion (3301a) formed along the circumference of the first shaft (3221), and a first washer protrusion (3301b) protruding in a first lateral direction (+X direction) (e.g., inwardly) from the first washer body portion (3301a). A center bar (340) may be connected to the first washer protrusion (3301b). For example, the first washer protrusion (3301b) may be seated in a guide hole (342a) formed in a connecting portion (342) of the center bar (340).

[0177] In one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a second washer (3302). The second washer (3302) may be disposed on a first lateral (+X direction) side (e.g., inner) of the second arm (3262). The second washer (3302) may be disposed on a first lateral (+X direction) side of the shaft bracket (329). For example, the second washer (3302) may be disposed adjacent to a first lateral (+X direction) facing side of the shaft bracket (329). The second washer (3302) may be fixed to the second shaft (3222). The second washer (3302) may be configured to rotate together with the second shaft (3222). The second washer (3302) may include a second washer body portion (3302a) in a ring shape formed along the circumference of the second shaft (3222), and a second washer protrusion (3302b) protruding in a first lateral direction (+X direction) (e.g., inwardly) from the second washer body portion (3302a). A center bar (340) may be connected to the second washer protrusion (3302b). For example, the second washer protrusion (3302b) may be seated in a guide hole (342a) formed in a connecting portion (342) of the center bar (340).

[0178] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first rotate member (3311). The first rotate member (3311) may be rotatably mounted on a hinge bracket (321). For example, a portion of the first rotate member (3311) may be disposed in the hinge bracket (321) (e.g., a third receiving space (S3) formed in the hinge bracket (321). The first rotate member (3311) may be configured to rotate about a third axis (Ax3) parallel to the folding axis (F) while the foldable electronic device (301) is changed between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). The third axis (Ax3) may be formed at a position spaced apart from the folding axis (F) by a predetermined distance.

[0179] In one embodiment, the first rotate member (3311) may be mounted on the first connecting member (3321). For example, a portion of the first rotate member (3311) (e.g., a portion of the first rotate member (3311) different from the portion mounted on the hinge bracket (321)) may be disposed in the first connecting member (3321) (e.g., a fifth receiving space (S5) formed in the first connecting member (3321). For example, it may be understood that a portion of the first rotate member (3311) closer to the folding axis (F) is disposed in the hinge bracket (321) (e.g., a third receiving space (S3) formed in the hinge bracket (321)), and a portion of the first rotate member (3311) farther from the folding axis (F) is disposed in the first connecting member (3321) (e.g., a fifth receiving space (S5) formed in the first connecting member (3321). The first rotate member (3311) may be configured to rotate about a fifth axis (Ax5) parallel to the folding axis (F) while the foldable electronic device (301) is changed between an unfolded state (e.g., a state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., a state of FIG. 3). The fifth axis (Ax5) may be formed at a position spaced apart from the folding axis (F) by a predetermined distance. The fifth axis (Ax5) may be spaced apart from the folding axis (F) by a distance greater than the distance between the folding axis (F) and the third axis (Ax3). The rotation direction of the first rotated member (3311) about the third axis (Ax3) and the rotation direction of the first rotated member (3311) about the fifth axis (Ax5) may be opposite to each other.

[0180] According to one embodiment, the first rotate member (3311) may include a third rail groove (3311a). The third rail groove (3311a) may be formed on a side surface of the first rotate member (3311). For example, the third rail groove (3311a) may be formed on at least one of a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing a first lateral direction (+X direction) of the first rotate member (3311) or a surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing a second lateral direction (-X direction). The third rail groove (3311a) may be formed in an arc shape centered on a third axis (Ax3). The third rail (3211) formed on the hinge bracket (321) may be seated in the third rail groove (3311a). The third rail groove (3311a) may be a part of a 'third rail structure'.

[0181] According to one embodiment, the first rotate member (3311) may include a fifth rail groove (3311b). The fifth rail groove (3311b) may be formed on a side surface of the first rotate member (3311). For example, the fifth rail groove (3311b) may be formed on at least one of a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing a first lateral direction (+X direction) of the first rotate member (3311) or a surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing a second lateral direction (-X direction). The fifth rail groove (3311b) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the fifth axis (Ax5). The fifth rail (3321b) formed on the first connecting member (3321) may be seated in the fifth rail groove (3311b). The fifth rail groove (3311b) may be a part of a 'fifth rail structure'.

[0182] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a second rotate member (3312). The second rotate member (3312) may be mounted on a hinge bracket (321). The second rotate member (3312) may be mounted on a fourth receiving space (S4) formed in the hinge bracket (321). The second rotate member (3312) may be configured to rotate about a fourth axis (Ax4) parallel to the folding axis (F) while the foldable electronic device (301) is changed between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). The fourth axis (Ax4) may be formed at a position spaced apart from the folding axis (F) by a predetermined distance. The fourth axis (Ax4) can be formed at a position symmetrical to the third axis (Ax3) with the folding axis (F) as the center.

[0183] According to one embodiment, the first rotate member (3311) and the second rotate member (3312) may partially overlap each other in a direction in which the folding axis (F) extends (e.g., in the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or in the second lateral direction (-X direction)). For example, the first rotate member (3311) may be disposed on the first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., inward) of the second rotate member (3312), but the opposite may also be possible. For example, when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), an end of the first rotate member (3311) facing the folding axis (F) and an end of the second rotate member (3312) facing the folding axis (F) may partially overlap each other in a direction in which the folding axis (F) extends (e.g., a first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or a second lateral direction (-X direction)).

[0184] In one embodiment, the second rotate member (3312) may be mounted on the second connecting member (3322). For example, a portion of the second rotate member (3312) (e.g., a portion of the second rotate member (3312) different from the portion mounted on the hinge bracket (321)) may be disposed in the second connecting member (3322) (e.g., a sixth receiving space (S6) formed in the second connecting member (3322). For example, it may be understood that a portion of the second rotate member (3312) closer to the folding axis (F) is disposed in the hinge bracket (321) (e.g., a fourth receiving space (S4) formed in the hinge bracket (321)), and a portion of the second rotate member (3312) farther from the folding axis (F) is disposed in the second connecting member (3322) (e.g., a sixth receiving space (S6) formed in the second connecting member (3322). The second rotate member (3312) may be configured to rotate about a sixth axis (Ax6) parallel to the folding axis (F) while the foldable electronic device (301) is changed between an unfolded state (e.g., a state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., a state of FIG. 3). The sixth axis (Ax6) may be formed at a position spaced apart from the folding axis (F) by a predetermined distance. The sixth axis (Ax6) may be spaced apart from the folding axis (F) by a distance greater than the distance between the folding axis (F) and the fourth axis (Ax4). The sixth axis (Ax6) may be formed at a position symmetrical to the fifth axis (Ax5) with respect to the folding axis (F). The rotation direction of the second rotate member (3312) about the fourth axis (Ax4) and the rotation direction of the second rotate member (3312) about the sixth axis (Ax6) may be opposite to each other.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the second rotate member (3312) may include a fourth rail groove (3312a). The fourth rail groove (3312a) may be formed on a side surface of the second rotate member (3312). For example, the fourth rail groove (3312a) may be formed on at least one of a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing the first lateral direction (+X direction) of the second rotate member (3312) or a surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing the second lateral direction (-X direction). The fourth rail groove (3312a) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the fourth axis (Ax4). The fourth rail (3212) formed on the hinge bracket (321) may be seated in the fourth rail groove (3312a). The fourth rail groove (3312a) may be a part of a 'fourth rail structure'.

[0186] According to one embodiment, the second rotate member (3312) may include a sixth rail groove (3312b). The sixth rail groove (3312b) may be formed on a side surface of the second rotate member (3312). For example, the sixth rail groove (3312b) may be formed on at least one of a surface facing the first lateral direction (+X direction) of the second rotate member (3312) (e.g., an inner surface) or a surface facing the second lateral direction (-X direction) (e.g., an outer surface). The sixth rail groove (3312b) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the sixth axis (Ax6). The sixth rail (3322b) formed on the second connecting member (3322) may be seated in the sixth rail groove (3312b). The sixth rail groove (3312b) may be a part of a 'sixth rail structure'.

[0187] In one embodiment, the first rail (3321a) formed on the first connecting member (3311) and the first rail groove (3261a) formed on the first arm (3261) may be formed at interchanged positions. The second rail (3322a) formed on the second connecting member (3312) and the second rail groove (3262a) formed on the second arm (3262) may be formed at interchanged positions. The third rail (3211) formed on the hinge bracket (321) and the third rail groove (3311a) formed on the first rotate member (3311) may be formed at interchanged positions. The fourth rail (3212) formed on the hinge bracket (321) and the fourth rail groove (3312a) formed on the second rotate member (3312) may be formed at interchanged positions. The fifth rail (3321b) formed on the first connecting member (3321) and the fifth rail groove (3311b) formed on the first rotate member (3311) may be formed at interchanged positions. The sixth rail (3322b) formed on the second connecting member (3322) and the sixth rail groove (3312b) formed on the second rotate member (3312) may be formed at interchanged positions.

[0188] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a first connecting member (3321). The first connecting member (3321) may be disposed on a third-side (+Y direction) side of the hinge bracket (321) when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2). The first connecting member (3321) may be fixed to the first housing portion (311) (or the first support member (3111)).

[0189] According to one embodiment, the first connecting member (3321) may include a first receiving space (S1). The first receiving space (S1) may be formed at a position corresponding to the first arm (3261). The first arm (3261) may be received (or seated) in the first receiving space (S1).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the first connecting member (3321) may include a first rail (3321a). The first rail (3321a) may be formed on a side surface of the first receiving space (S1). For example, the first rail (3321a) may be formed on at least one of a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing a first lateral direction (+X direction) of the first receiving space (S1) or a surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing a second lateral direction (-X direction). When the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., a state of FIG. 2), the first rail (3321a) may extend in a direction inclined in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) with respect to the third lateral direction (+Y direction) as it moves away from the first axis (Ax1). The first rail (3321a) can be inserted into the first rail groove (3261a) formed in the first arm (3261). Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11 , the first rail (3321a) and the first rail groove (3261a) can be linearly slid relative to each other while the foldable electronic device (301) changes between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2 ) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3 ). The first rail (3321a) can be part of a 'first rail structure'.

[0191] According to one embodiment, the first connecting member (3321) may include a fifth receiving space (S5). The fifth receiving space (S5) may be formed at a position corresponding to the first rotated member (3311). The first rotated member (3311) may be received (or seated) in the fifth receiving space (S5).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the first connecting member (3321) may include a fifth rail (3321b). The fifth rail (3321b) may be formed on a side surface of the fifth receiving space (S5). For example, the fifth rail (3321b) may be formed on at least one of a surface facing the first lateral direction (+X direction) of the fifth receiving space (S5) (e.g., an inner surface) or a surface facing the second lateral direction (-X direction) (e.g., an outer surface). The fifth rail (3321b) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the fifth axis (Ax5). The fifth rail (3321b) may be inserted into a fifth rail groove (3311b) formed in the first rotate member (3311). Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the fifth rail (3321b) and the fifth rail groove (3311b) can be linearly slidable relative to each other while the foldable electronic device (301) changes between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). The fifth rail (3321b) can be part of a 'fifth rail structure'.

[0193] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a second connecting member (3322). The second connecting member (3322) may be disposed on the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction) side of the hinge bracket (321) when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2). The second connecting member (3322) may be fixed to the second housing portion (312) (or the second support member (3121)).

[0194] According to one embodiment, the second connecting member (3322) may include a second receiving space (S2). The second receiving space (S2) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second arm (3262). The second arm (3262) may be received (or seated) in the second receiving space (S2).

[0195] According to one embodiment, the second connecting member (3322) may include a second rail (3322a). The second rail (3322a) may be formed on a side surface of the second receiving space (S2). For example, the second rail (3322a) may be formed on at least one of a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing a first lateral direction (+X direction) of the second receiving space (S2) or a surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing a second lateral direction (-X direction). When the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., a state of FIG. 2), the second rail (3322a) may extend in a direction inclined in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) with respect to the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction) as it moves away from the second axis (Ax2). The second rail (3322a) can be inserted into the second rail groove (3262a) formed in the second arm (3262). Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11 , the second rail (3322a) and the second rail groove (3262a) can be linearly slidable relative to each other while the foldable electronic device (301) changes between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2 ) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3 ). The second rail (3322a) can be part of a 'second rail structure'.

[0196] According to one embodiment, the second connecting member (3322) may include a sixth receiving space (S6). The sixth receiving space (S6) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second rotate member (3312). The second rotate member (3312) may be received (or seated) in the sixth receiving space (S6).

[0197] According to one embodiment, the second connecting member (3322) may include a sixth rail (3322b). The sixth rail (3322b) may be formed on a side surface of the sixth receiving space (S6). For example, the sixth rail (3322b) may be formed on at least one of a surface facing the first lateral direction (+X direction) of the sixth receiving space (S6) (e.g., an inner surface) or a surface facing the second lateral direction (-X direction) (e.g., an outer surface). The sixth rail (3322b) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the sixth axis (Ax6). The sixth rail (3322b) may be inserted into a sixth rail groove (3312b) formed in the second rotate member (3312). Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the sixth rail (3322b) and the sixth rail groove (3312b) can slide along an arc-shaped path centered on the sixth axis (Ax6). The sixth rail (3322b) can be part of a 'sixth rail structure'.

[0198] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (320) may include a center bar (340). The center bar (340) may be positioned between a first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (320a) of FIGS. 6 and 7) and a second hinge structure (320b). For example, with respect to the second hinge structure (320b), the center bar (340) may be arranged on the first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., inner side) of the second hinge structure (320b), and a part of the center bar (340) may be arranged on the first thickness direction (+Z direction) side (e.g., upper side) of the second hinge structure (320b), and the center bar (340) and the second hinge structure (320b) may at least partially overlap each other in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or the second thickness direction (-Z direction). The center bar (340) may be connected to the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302). The center bar (340) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F). The center bar (340) can support the flexible display (360) in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2).

[0199] According to one embodiment, the center bar (340) can be raised in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or the second thickness direction (-Z direction) while the foldable electronic device (301) is changed between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). For example, referring to FIG. 10, when the foldable electronic device (301) is changed from a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3) to an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the center bar (340) can be raised in the first thickness direction (+Z direction). An upper surface of the raised center bar (340) (e.g., a surface facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction)) can be positioned at a height corresponding to the upper surfaces (e.g., surfaces facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction)) of the first hinge plate (381) and the second hinge plate (382). For example, referring to FIG. 11, when the foldable electronic device (301) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the center bar (340) can be lowered in the second thickness direction (-Z direction). For example, the center bar (340) can be configured to be lowered toward the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) while the foldable electronic device (301) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). The lifting mechanism of the center bar (340) will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS. 18 to 20.

[0200] According to one embodiment, when the center bar (340) is lowered in a folded state of the foldable electronic device (301) (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the center bar (340) may be configured to not come into contact with the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242). For example, even though the center bar (340) performs an upward and downward motion, since the center bar (340) has a structure (e.g., a structure that does not interfere) that does not come into contact with the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242), the center bar (340) may be extended to an area overlapping the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) and an area beyond the area, so that the flexible display (360) may be effectively supported.

[0201] FIG. 14 is a plan view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a rear view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a plan view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of some components of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] Specifically, FIG. 14 is a plan view illustrating a region near an end facing the second lateral direction (-X direction) of the center bar (340). FIG. 15 is a rear view of the structure illustrated in FIG. 14 as viewed from the second thickness direction (-Z direction). FIG. 16 is a plan view of the center bar (340). FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the center bar (340). FIGS. 18 to 20 are cross-sectional views taken along the line D-D' of FIG. 8 illustrating a process in which a foldable electronic device (301) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a hinge bracket (321), a first linkage gear (3241), and a second linkage gear (3242).

[0203] According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 21, the hinge bracket (321) may include a recessed portion (3213). The recessed portion (3213) may be a portion adjacent to the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242). For example, the recessed portion (3213) may be formed in an area adjacent to an end of the hinge bracket (321) facing the first side (+X direction). For example, the recessed portion (3213) may be disposed on the second side (-X direction) of the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242).

[0204] According to one embodiment, the end of the recessed portion (3213) facing the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (360) of FIG. 7) (e.g., the end of the recessed portion (3213) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction) or the upper end of the recessed portion (3213)) may be positioned at a position far from the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (360) of FIG. 7) based on the end of each of the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) facing the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (360) of FIG. 7)) (e.g., the end of the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) facing the first thickness direction (+Z direction) or the upper end of the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242)). For example, the distance between the recessed portion (3213) and the center bar (340) may be greater than or equal to the distance between the first linkage gear (3241) and the center bar (340) and the distance between the second linkage gear (3242) and the center bar (340). For example, it may be understood that the upper portion of the recessed portion (3213) is positioned at a lower position compared to the upper portions of the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242). Accordingly, when the center bar (340) is lowered in a folded state of the foldable electronic device (301) (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the center bar (340) that at least partially overlaps the recessed portion (3213) may not interfere with the hinge bracket (321).

[0205] According to one embodiment, the hinge bracket (321) may include a first linkage gear mounting groove (321a). The first linkage gear mounting groove (321a) may be formed on a surface facing a first side direction (+X direction) of the hinge bracket (321). For example, the first linkage gear mounting groove (321a) may be formed on a surface facing a central axis (C) of the hinge bracket (321). For example, the first linkage gear mounting groove (321a) may be formed on an inner surface of the hinge bracket (321). The first linkage gear mounting groove (321a) may be formed on a surface facing the first linkage gear (3241) of the hinge bracket (321). The first linkage gear settling groove (321a) may be formed at a position overlapping the first protrusion (3241b) in the direction in which the folding axis (F) of the first linkage gear (3241) extends. The first protrusion (3241b) of the first linkage gear (3241) may be inserted into the first linkage gear settling groove (321a).

[0206] According to one embodiment, the hinge bracket (321) may include a second linkage gear mounting groove (321b). The second linkage gear mounting groove (321b) may be formed on a surface facing the first side direction (+X direction) of the hinge bracket (321). For example, the second linkage gear mounting groove (321b) may be formed on a surface facing the central axis (C) of the hinge bracket (321). For example, the second linkage gear mounting groove (321b) may be formed on an inner surface of the hinge bracket (321). The second linkage gear mounting groove (321b) may be formed on a surface facing the second linkage gear (3242) of the hinge bracket (321). The second linkage gear settling groove (321b) may be formed at a position overlapping the third protrusion (3242b) in the direction in which the folding axis (F) of the second linkage gear (3242) extends. The third protrusion (3242b) of the second linkage gear (3242) may be inserted into the second linkage gear settling groove (321b).

[0207] According to one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the shaft bracket (329) may include a shaft bracket body portion (3291). The shaft bracket body portion (3291) may extend in a plane perpendicular to the folding axis. The first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222) may pass through the shaft bracket body portion (3291).

[0208] According to one embodiment, the shaft bracket (329) may include a flange portion (3292). The flange portion (3292) may extend in a second lateral direction (-X direction) (e.g., outwardly) from the shaft bracket body portion (3291). The flange portion (3292) may be disposed between the first shaft (3221) and the second shaft (3222). A coupling hole (329a) may be formed in the flange portion (3292) through which a fixing member for fixing the shaft bracket (329) to the second body portion (351) of the hinge cover (350) is inserted and coupled.

[0209] According to one embodiment, the center bar (340) may include a first body portion (341). The first body portion (341) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., a first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or a second lateral direction (-X direction)). An upper surface of the first body portion (341) (e.g., a surface facing the second thickness direction (-Z direction)) may be formed flat. The first body portion (341) may be a portion that directly supports a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (360) of FIG. 7).

[0210] According to one embodiment, the center bar (340) may include a connecting portion (342). The connecting portion (342) may protrude from the first body portion (341) in a direction in which the center bar (340) descends (e.g., in the second thickness direction (-Z direction)). The connecting portion (342) may be disposed on the first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., the inner side) of the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302). For example, the connecting portion (342) may be disposed on the side facing the central axis (C) of the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302).

[0211] According to one embodiment, the connecting portion (342) may extend in a direction intersecting the folding axis (F) (e.g., the third lateral direction (+Y direction) and the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction)). Referring to FIGS. 18 to 20, the connecting portion (342) may at least partially overlap the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302) in the direction in which the folding axis (F) extends (e.g., the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction)). The connecting portion (342) may be provided corresponding to each of the first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (320a) of FIGS. 6 and 7) and the second hinge structure (e.g., the second hinge structure (320b) of FIGS. 6 and 7).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the connecting portion (342) can be connected to the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302). For example, the connecting portion (342) is formed with a guide hole (342a) in which the first washer protrusion (3301b) and the second washer protrusion (3302b) can be received, respectively, and the first washer protrusion (3301b) and the second washer protrusion (3302b) can be seated in the guide hole (342a).

[0213] According to one embodiment, the center bar (340) can be raised or lowered relative to the hinge bracket (321), the first shaft (3221), the second shaft (3222), the first gear (3231), the second gear (3232), the first linkage gear (3241), the second linkage gear (3242) and / or the hinge cover (350) as the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302) rotate. Referring to FIG. 18, when the foldable electronic device (301) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the first washer protrusion (3301b) and the second washer protrusion (3302b) may be positioned in the upper region of the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302), respectively, and the connecting portion (342) (or the center bar (340) including the connecting portion (342)) connected to the first washer protrusion (3301b) and the second washer protrusion (3302b) may be in an elevated state. Referring to FIG. 19, while the foldable electronic device (301) changes from an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) to a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the first washer (3301) connected to the first shaft (3221) and the second washer (3302) connected to the second shaft (3222) can rotate. For example, with reference to FIGS. 18 to 20, the first washer (3301) can rotate clockwise, and the second washer (3302) can rotate counterclockwise. In this process, the positions of the first washer protrusion (3301b) and the second washer protrusion (3302b) can be lowered toward the second thickness direction (-Z direction), and the connecting portion (342) (or the center bar (340) including the connecting portion (342)) connected to the first washer protrusion (3301b) and the second washer protrusion (3302b) can also be lowered toward the second thickness direction (-Z direction).Referring to FIG. 20, when the foldable electronic device (301) is in a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3), the rotation of the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302) is completed, and the first washer protrusion (3301b) and the second washer protrusion (3302b) may be positioned in the lower region of the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302), respectively. At this time, the connecting portion (342) connected to the first washer protrusion (3301b) and the second washer protrusion (3302b) (or the center bar (340) including the connecting portion (342)) may be in a state in which the lowering is completed. The process of raising the center bar (340) while the foldable electronic device (301) changes from a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3) to an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) can be understood as the reverse order of the process of lowering the center bar (340) described above with reference to FIGS. 18 to 20.

[0214] According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 14, the center bar (340) may extend in the second lateral direction (-X direction) to an area that overlaps at least the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242). For example, the first body portion (341) of the center bar (340) may overlap the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or the second thickness direction (-Z direction). According to one embodiment, the center bar (340) may extend in the second lateral direction (-X direction) to an area that at least partially overlaps the recessed portion (3213) of the hinge bracket (321). For example, referring to FIG. 14, the end of the center bar (340) facing the second side direction (-X direction) may at least partially overlap with the recessed portion (3213) in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or the second thickness direction (-Z direction). Through this, the support area of ​​the center bar (340) supporting the flexible display (360) may be expanded.

[0215] According to one embodiment, the center bar (340) may include a hole (343). Referring to FIGS. 14 to 17, the hole (343) may be formed in a central region of the center bar (340). For example, the hole (343) may be formed by penetrating a central region of the first body portion (341) of the center bar (340). Through the hole (343), the alignment and / or arrangement of a flexible circuit board (e.g., the flexible circuit board (370) of FIGS. 5 and 6) disposed below the center bar (340) may be checked.

[0216] According to one embodiment, the center bar (340) may include a through hole (341a). For example, referring to FIG. 14, the through hole (341a) may be formed by penetrating the first body portion (341). The through hole (341a) may be formed at a position overlapping a coupling hole (329a) formed in a flange portion (3292) of the shaft bracket (329). For example, the through hole (341a) may overlap with the coupling hole (329a) in the first thickness direction (+Z direction) and / or the second thickness direction (-Z direction). The through hole (341a) may be formed to have a larger size than the coupling hole (329a). The through hole (341a) may provide a path for a fixing member (not shown) for fixing the shaft bracket (329) to the hinge cover (350) to access the coupling hole (329a) of the shaft bracket (329). For example, the fixing member may pass through the through hole (341a) and be coupled to the coupling hole (329a) and the second body portion (351).

[0217] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (301) may include a damping member (344). The damping member (344) may be fixed to at least one of the first body portion (341) or the connecting portion (342). Referring to FIG. 17, the damping member (344) may be disposed on a second lateral direction (−X direction) side (e.g., an outer side) of the connecting portion (342). The damping member (344) may be disposed adjacent to a surface (e.g., an outer side) facing the second lateral direction (−X direction) of the connecting portion (342). According to one embodiment, the damping member (344) may be disposed between the connecting portion (342) and a shaft bracket (e.g., the shaft bracket (329) of FIGS. 8 and 9). For example, referring to FIG. 15, the damping member (344) may be disposed on the first side (+X direction) side (e.g., inner side) of the shaft bracket (329). For example, the damping member (344) may be adjacent to the side (e.g., inner side) facing the first side (+X direction) of the shaft bracket (329). The damping member (344) may be disposed between the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302). As described above, since the damping member (344) may be disposed in the space between the first washer (3301) and the second washer (3302) where a relatively wide space is secured, the space efficiency of the space where the hinge structure is disposed may be improved.

[0218] According to one embodiment, the damping member (344) may include an elastic material (e.g., a rubber material) capable of absorbing shock. The damping member (344) may prevent movement of the center bar (340) in the left-right direction (e.g., the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction)), and may prevent noise caused by contact between the center bar (340) and other components and wear between components while the foldable electronic device (301) is changed between an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2) and a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 3).

[0219] According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 21, the first linkage gear (3241) may include a first linkage gear body portion (3241a). The first linkage gear body portion (3241a) may be configured as a spur gear. The second linkage gear (3242) may include a second linkage gear body portion (3242a). The second linkage gear body portion (3242a) may be configured as a spur gear. Each of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) may have a cylindrical shape having a height element in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F), and teeth (T) may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of each of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a). The first linkage gear body part (3241a) and the second linkage gear body part (3242a) may have the same shape and size.

[0220] According to one embodiment, both ends of the teeth (T) formed on each of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) may have a chamfered shape (CH). For example, when the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) operate in a state of meshing with each other, both ends of the teeth (T) formed on the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and both ends of the teeth (T) formed on the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) may wear out and / or break due to friction with each other. In one embodiment, in order to realize a structure in which the center bar (340) does not contact the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242), the sizes (e.g., diameters) of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) may be reduced, and accordingly, both ends of the teeth (T) formed on the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the teeth (T) formed on the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) may be vulnerable to wear and / or damage due to friction between them. Since both ends of the teeth (T) formed on each of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) have a chamfered shape (CH), the teeth (T) can be effectively prevented from being damaged.

[0221] According to one embodiment, the diameter (D) of each of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) (e.g., the distance from the center of each of the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) to the outer end of the teeth) may be preferably small. This may be so that the center bar (340) does not come into contact with the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242) when the center bar (340) is lowered in the second thickness direction (-Z direction) in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (301) (e.g., the state of FIG. 3). For example, the diameter (D) of each of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) may be about 2.56 mm or less.

[0222] According to one embodiment, as the diameters of each of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) decrease, in order to secure structural rigidity of each of the first linkage gear (3241) and the second linkage gear (3242), it may be desirable for the thickness (L) (e.g., the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction) length) of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) to increase. For example, the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction) length (L) of each of the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) and the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) may be about 1.85 mm or more.

[0223] According to one embodiment, the first linkage gear (3241) may include a first projection (3241b) and a second projection (3241c). The first projection (3241b) may protrude from the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) in a second lateral direction (-X direction) (e.g., outward direction), and the second projection (3241c) may protrude from the first linkage gear body portion (3241a) in a first lateral direction (+X direction) (e.g., inward direction). The first projection (3241b) may be seated in the first linkage gear seating groove (321a) of the hinge bracket (321). The second projection (3241c) may be seated in the gear bracket (e.g., the gear bracket (325) of FIG. 9).

[0224] According to one embodiment, the second linkage gear (3242) may include a third protrusion (3242b) and a fourth protrusion (3242c). The third protrusion (3242b) may protrude from the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) in a second lateral direction (-X direction) (e.g., outward direction), and the fourth protrusion (3242c) may protrude from the second linkage gear body portion (3242a) in a first lateral direction (+X direction) (e.g., inward direction). The third protrusion (3242b) may be seated in the second linkage gear seating groove (321b) of the hinge bracket (321). The fourth protrusion (3242c) may be seated in a gear bracket (e.g., the gear bracket (325) of FIG. 9).

[0225] FIG. 22 is a plan view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 25 is a rear perspective view of a foldable electronic device (301) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0226] Specifically, Fig. 22 is a plan view showing an enlarged view of the folding area (231c) of Fig. 2 and its surrounding area. Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E' of Fig. 22. Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing an enlarged view of an end area of ​​the center bar (440) facing the second lateral direction (-X direction). Fig. 25 is a rear perspective view showing an end area of ​​the center bar (440) facing the second lateral direction (-X direction).

[0227] The detailed configuration of the foldable electronic device (401) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure not described below may be the same as the detailed configuration of the foldable electronic device (301) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 21.

[0228] According to one embodiment, the center bar (440) may extend to an end (e.g., an outer end) of the hinge bracket (421) of the second hinge structure (e.g., the second hinge structure (320b) of FIGS. 6 and 7) facing the second lateral direction (-X direction). The center bar (440) may extend to an end (e.g., an outer end) of the hinge bracket (421) of the first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (320a) of FIGS. 6 and 7) facing the first lateral direction (+X direction). For example, the center bar (440) may be understood to extend to an area adjacent to both side edges of the foldable housing (410) in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction)). Through this, the center bar (440) fills the empty space formed between the first hinge plate (481) and the second hinge plate (482), so that a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (360) of FIG. 7) can be effectively supported.

[0229] According to one embodiment, the center bar (440) may include a reinforcing member (445). The reinforcing member (445) may protrude from an end (e.g., an outer end) of the first body portion (441) of the center bar (440) facing the second lateral direction (-X direction) and / or an end (e.g., an outer end) of the first body portion (441) facing the first lateral direction (+X direction) of the center bar (340) toward a downward direction (e.g., a second thickness direction (-Z direction)). The reinforcing member (445) may reinforce the structural rigidity of both ends of the center bar (440).

[0230] According to one embodiment, the reinforcing member (445) may be disposed in a gap (G) formed between the hinge bracket (421) and the wall portion (452) of the hinge cover (450). For example, referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the reinforcing member (445) may be disposed between the hinge bracket (421) and the wall portion (452) of the hinge cover (450). A surface (e.g., an outer surface) facing the second side (-X direction) of the reinforcing member (445) is supported by the wall portion (452), thereby preventing bending deformation of the end region of the center bar (440). For example, when an external force that causes bending deformation of the end region of the center bar (440) is applied to the center bar (440), the phenomenon of the end of the center bar (440) being lifted can be prevented by the outer surface of the reinforcing portion (445) coming into contact with the inner surface of the wall portion (452) of the hinge cover (450).

[0231] According to one embodiment, the center bar (440) may include a guide rail (446). The guide rail (446) may be formed to protrude from a surface (e.g., an inner surface) facing the first side direction (+X direction) of the reinforcing member (445). The guide rail (446) may extend along a direction in which the center bar (440) descends (e.g., a second thickness direction (-Z direction)). The guide rail (446) may be seated in a guide rail groove (4213) formed in the hinge bracket (421).

[0232] According to one embodiment, the hinge bracket (421) may include a guide rail groove (4213). The guide rail groove (4213) may be formed at an end (e.g., an outer end) facing the second side direction (-X direction) of the hinge bracket (421). The guide rail groove (4213) may be formed along a direction in which the center bar (440) descends (e.g., a second thickness direction (-Z direction)). A guide rail (446) of the center bar (440) may be slidably seated in the guide rail groove (4213). Through a structure in which the guide rail (446) is seated in the guide rail groove (4213) and slides, the upward and downward movement of the end of the center bar (440) may be stably guided. In addition, lateral flow (e.g., flow in the first lateral direction (+X direction), the second lateral direction (-X direction), the third lateral direction (+Y direction), and / or the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction)) of the end region of the center bar (440) is prevented, so that the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (360) of FIG. 7) can be stably supported by the center bar (440), and the phenomenon of the end of the center bar (440) being bent due to interference with other components during the process of the center bar (440) being raised and lowered can be prevented.

[0233] FIG. 26 is a plan view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 27 is a plan view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 29 is a rear perspective view of a portion of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0234] Specifically, Fig. 26 is a plan view illustrating a hinge module (520), a first hinge plate (581), and a second hinge plate (582). Fig. 27 is a plan view illustrating a region near an end of a center bar (540) facing the second side (-X direction), with the plate portion (540b) removed from the center bar (540). Fig. 28 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line G-G' of Fig. 26. Fig. 29 is a rear perspective view illustrating the back of the center bar (540).

[0235] The detailed configuration of the foldable electronic device (501) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure not described below may be the same as the detailed configuration of the foldable electronic device (301) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 21 and / or the detailed configuration of the foldable electronic device (401) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 25.

[0236] In one embodiment, the center bar (540) may include a structural member (540a). The structural member (540a) may be positioned on the lower portion (e.g., on the second thickness direction (-Z direction) side) of the plate member (540b) of the center bar (540). The structural member (540a) may be a portion that structurally supports the center bar (540) in a region adjacent to the central axis (C).

[0237] According to one embodiment, the structure (540a) may include a first body portion (541) and a connecting portion (542). The first body portion (541) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., a first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or a second lateral direction (-X direction)). The connecting portion (542) may protrude from the first body portion (541) in a direction in which the center bar (540) descends (e.g., a second thickness direction (-Z direction)). The connecting portion (542) may be disposed on the first lateral direction (+X direction) side (e.g., the inner side) of the first washer (5301) and the second washer (5302).

[0238] In one embodiment, the structural member (540a) can be connected to the first washer (5301) and the second washer (5302). For example, the connecting member (542) of the structural member (540a) can be connected to the first washer (5301) and the second washer (5302). For example, the connecting member (542) can extend in the third lateral direction (+Y direction) and the fourth lateral direction (-Y direction) so as to at least partially overlap the first washer (5301) and the second washer (5302) in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction)). The first washer protrusion (5301b) of the first washer (5301) and the second washer protrusion (5302b) of the second washer (5302) can be accommodated in the guide hole (542a) formed in the connecting portion (542).

[0239] According to one embodiment, the structural portion (540a) may be disposed in a region facing the first lateral direction (+X direction) of the first linkage gear (5241) and the second linkage gear (5242) (e.g., an inner region of the first linkage gear (5241) and the second linkage gear (5242)). For example, the structural portion (540a) may not overlap with the first linkage gear (5241) and the second linkage gear (5242). It may be understood that the structural portion (540a) of the foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has a shorter length compared to the center bar (340) of the foldable electronic device (301) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and the center bar (440) of the foldable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Through this, bending deformation of the structural portion (540a) that may occur during the manufacturing process of the structural portion (540a) (e.g., MIM (metal injection molding) process) can be prevented and / or alleviated.

[0240] In one embodiment, for example, the first body portion (541) of the structural portion (540a) may extend only to a region that does not overlap with the coupling hole (529a) formed in the flange portion (5292) of the shaft bracket (529). For example, the end of the structural portion (540a) facing the second side (-X direction) may be disposed on the first side (+X direction) (e.g., the inner side) of the coupling hole (529a). The structural portion (540a) may not have a through hole (e.g., the through hole (341a) of FIG. 14) formed therein through which a fixing member for fixing the shaft bracket (529) to the hinge cover (e.g., the hinge cover (350) of FIG. 8) passes. For example, since the structural portion (540a) extends only to an area that does not overlap with the coupling hole (529a) formed in the flange portion (5292) of the shaft bracket (529), even if there is no through hole (e.g., the through hole (341a) of FIG. 14), the fixing member can be coupled to the coupling hole (529a) before the plate portion (540b) is placed on the structural portion (540a). The plate portion (540b) can be placed on the structural portion (540a) after the shaft bracket (529) is fixed to the hinge cover (e.g., the hinge cover (350) of FIG. 8) via the fixing member. In this way, the center bar (540) can effectively support a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (360) of FIG. 7) through a structure including a short structural portion (540a) and a long plate portion (540b), while eliminating the through hole to improve the structural rigidity of the center bar (540) itself.

[0241] According to one embodiment, the structural portion (540a) may include a protrusion (540aa). The protrusion (540aa) may protrude from the first body portion (541) in the first thickness direction (+Z direction). The protrusion (540aa) may be inserted into a mounting hole (540ba) formed in the plate portion (540b). The protrusion (540aa) may guide the coupling position of the plate portion (540b) and prevent lateral movement of the plate portion (540b) with respect to the structural portion (540a).

[0242] According to one embodiment, the center bar (540) may include a plate portion (540b). The plate portion (540b) may extend in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., a first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or a second lateral direction (-X direction)). The plate portion (540b) may be disposed on the structural portion (540a). For example, the plate portion (540b) may be disposed on a first thickness direction (+Z direction) side of the first body portion (541) of the structural portion (540a). The plate portion (540b) may substantially support a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (360) of FIG. 7).

[0243] According to one embodiment, the plate portion (540b) may extend to at least an area overlapping the first linkage gear (5241) and the second linkage gear (5242). For example, the plate portion (540b) may extend to an end (e.g., an outer end) of the hinge bracket (521) of the second hinge structure (e.g., the second hinge structure (320b) of FIGS. 6 and 7) facing the second side (-X direction). The plate portion (540b) may extend to an end (e.g., an outer end) of the hinge bracket of the first hinge structure (e.g., the first hinge structure (320a) of FIGS. 6 and 7) facing the first side (+X direction). For example, the plate portion (540b) may be understood to extend to an area adjacent to both edges of the foldable housing (e.g., the foldable housing (310) of FIG. 5) in a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., the first lateral direction (+X direction) and / or the second lateral direction (-X direction)). Through this, the plate portion (540b) fills the empty space formed between the first hinge plate (581) and the second hinge plate (582), thereby effectively supporting the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (360) of FIG. 7).

[0244] In one embodiment, the plate portion (540b) may be manufactured using a press method. Through this, even though the plate portion (540b) has a longer length than the structural portion (540a), bending deformation may not occur or may occur less. In one embodiment, instead of the structural portion (540a) manufactured using the MIM method having a shorter length to prevent bending deformation, a long plate portion (540b) manufactured using the press method is added onto the structural portion (540a), thereby realizing a structure in which the center bar (540) can effectively support a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (360) of FIG. 7).

[0245] According to one embodiment, the plate portion (540b) may include a mounting hole (540ba). The mounting hole (540ba) may be formed through the plate portion (540b). The mounting hole (540ba) may be positioned corresponding to the protrusion (540aa) of the structural portion (540a). The protrusion (540aa) may be mounted in the mounting hole (540ba).

[0246] According to one embodiment, the center bar (540) may include an opening (O) formed in an area overlapping with an end (EP) facing the folding axis (F) of the first rotate member (5311) and an end (EP) facing the folding axis (F) of the second rotate member (5312) when the foldable electronic device (501) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2). In one embodiment, the opening (O) may be formed in the plate portion (540b). In one embodiment, when the center bar (540) is provided as an integral body as illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 21, the opening (O) may also be formed in the center bar (540). By forming the opening (O), when the foldable electronic device (501) is in an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 2), the end (EP) of the first rotate member (5311) facing the folding axis (F) and the end (EP) of the second rotate member (5312) facing the folding axis (F) may not interfere with the plate portion (540b). Through this, the lengths of the rail structures of the first rotate member (5311) and the second rotate member (5312) may be sufficiently secured, so that the operation of the hinge module (520) may be performed smoothly.

[0247] In foldable electronic devices including flexible displays, reducing and / or preventing wrinkles in the display is considered an important task. In order to solve the above task, the design of a hinge structure for implementing a "folding motion (folding motion) and / or unfolding motion (unfolding motion)" (hereinafter, abbreviated as "folding motion") of the foldable electronic device may be important. As the hinge structure, a U-shaped (or wedge-shaped) hinge structure in which components included in the hinge assembly are spread out in a U shape and face each other when folded, and a water drop-shaped (or dumbbell-shaped) hinge structure in which components included in the hinge assembly form a negative angle (e.g., -5 degrees) when folded have been disclosed.

[0248] The foldable electronic device includes a hinge module that rotatably connects a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The hinge module is arranged in a very narrow space between the first housing portion and the second housing portion, and has a considerably complex structure to implement the above-described water drop-shaped hinge structure. For example, the hinge module includes two interlocking gears for interlocking the rotation of the first housing portion and the second housing portion, and a center bar that rises and falls relative to the interlocking gears while the foldable electronic device changes between an unfolded state and a folded state. When the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, the center bar rises to a height corresponding to the first hinge plate and the second hinge plate, and supports the flexible display together with the first hinge plate and the second hinge plate.

[0249] In conventional foldable electronic devices, due to the complex structure of the hinge module and the narrow space in which the hinge module is arranged, an empty space is formed between the first hinge plate and the second hinge plate that support the flexible display to avoid interference with the hinge module. In addition, the center bar, which requires a lot of space due to the lifting action, also has limitations in extending into the empty space between the first hinge plate and the second hinge plate due to interference with the hinge module. Due to these limitations, in conventional foldable electronic devices, the flexible display is not effectively supported due to the empty space between the first hinge plate and the second hinge plate, which causes problems such as poor durability and deterioration of the appearance quality of the display.

[0250] The problem to be solved in the present disclosure is to improve the durability and appearance quality of a flexible display by enabling the flexible display to be effectively supported through an extended structure of a center bar.

[0251] The problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0252] In a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a flexible display can be effectively supported through an extended structure of a center bar, thereby improving the durability and appearance quality of the flexible display.

[0253] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0254] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a foldable housing (310; 410) including a first housing portion (311; 411) and a second housing portion (312; 412).

[0255] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge module (320; 420; 520) connected to the first housing portion and the second housing portion and rotatably connecting the first housing portion and the second housing portion about a folding axis (F) located between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0256] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible display (360) disposed on the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0257] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge bracket (321; 421; 521).

[0258] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first shaft (3221) extending in a first lateral direction parallel to the folding axis from the hinge bracket and rotating around a first axis (Ax1) parallel to the folding axis.

[0259] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second shaft (3222) extending in the first lateral direction from the hinge bracket and rotating around a second axis (Ax2) parallel to the first axis.

[0260] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first arm (3261) fixed to the first shaft.

[0261] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second arm (3262) fixed to the second shaft.

[0262] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first gear (3231) disposed between the first arm and the hinge bracket and fixed to the first shaft.

[0263] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second gear (3232) disposed between the second arm and the hinge bracket and fixed to the second shaft.

[0264] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first linkage gear (3241; 5241) and a second linkage gear (3242; 5242) that are arranged between the first gear and the second gear and enable the implementation of an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device by interlocking the rotation of the first gear and the second gear.

[0265] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first washer (3301; 5301) arranged on the first lateral side of the first arm and configured to be fixed to the first shaft and rotate together with the first shaft.

[0266] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second washer (3302; 5302) arranged on the first lateral side of the second arm and configured to be fixed to the second shaft and rotate together with the second shaft.

[0267] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a center bar (340; 440; 540) connected to the first washer and the second washer, configured to support the flexible display when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, and to descend toward the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear while the foldable electronic device is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state.

[0268] The center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to extend to at least an area overlapping the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear in a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction, thereby expanding a support area for supporting the flexible display, and to be non-contacted with the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear when the center bar is lowered in a folded state of the foldable electronic device.

[0269] The hinge bracket of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a recessed portion (3213) adjacent to the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear.

[0270] The center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may extend to an area at least partially overlapping with the recessed portion in the second lateral direction.

[0271] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the distance between the recessed portion and the center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) may be greater than the distance between the first linkage gear and the center bar and the distance between the second linkage gear and the center bar.

[0272] The center bar (440; 540) of the foldable electronic device (401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may extend to an end region facing the second side of the hinge bracket (421; 521).

[0273] The center bar (440) of the foldable electronic device (401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first body portion (441) extending parallel to the folding axis, and a reinforcing portion (445) protruding in the direction in which the center bar descends from an end of the first body portion facing the second side.

[0274] A foldable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a hinge cover (450) including a second body portion (351) disposed on the side in which the center bar of the hinge module (421) descends, and a wall portion (452) extending from an end of the second body portion facing the second side toward the flexible display.

[0275] The reinforcing portion of the foldable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be placed in a gap (G) formed between the hinge bracket and the wall portion.

[0276] The center bar (440) of the foldable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a guide rail (446) that protrudes from a surface facing the first side of the reinforcing portion and extends along a direction in which the center bar descends.

[0277] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a guide rail groove (4213) may be formed at an end of the hinge bracket (421) facing the second side, in which the center bar extends along the descending direction and in which the guide rail is slidably seated.

[0278] The center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first body portion (341; 441; 541) extending in a direction parallel to the folding axis.

[0279] The center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a connecting portion (342; 542) that protrudes from the first body portion in a direction in which the center bar descends and is arranged on the first lateral side of the first washer and the second washer to be connected to the first washer and the second washer.

[0280] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a shaft bracket (329) connected to the first shaft and the second shaft and arranged adjacent to the second-side facing surfaces of the first washer and the second washer.

[0281] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a damping member (344; 544) fixed to at least one of the first body portion or the connecting portion and disposed between the connecting portion and the shaft bracket.

[0282] A foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a first rotate member (5311) mounted on the hinge bracket (521) and configured to rotate about a third axis (Ax3) parallel to the folding axis relative to the hinge bracket while the foldable electronic device is changed between an unfolded state and a folded state.

[0283] A foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a second rotate member (5312) mounted on the hinge bracket and configured to rotate about a fourth axis (Ax4) parallel to the folding axis relative to the hinge bracket while the foldable electronic device is changed between an unfolded state and a folded state.

[0284] In a foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, the center bar (540) can extend to at least an area overlapping the first rotate member and the second rotate member.

[0285] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) includes an opening (O) formed in an area overlapping an end (EP) of the first rotate member facing the folding axis and an end (EP) of the second rotate member facing the folding axis when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state.

[0286] The center bar (540) of the foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a structural member (540a) connected to the first washer (5301) and the second washer (5302).

[0287] The center bar (540) of the foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a plate portion (540b) disposed on the structural portion and extending to at least an area overlapping the first linkage gear (5241) and the second linkage gear (5242).

[0288] A foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a shaft bracket (529) connected to the first shaft and the second shaft and arranged adjacent to the second-side facing surfaces of the first washer and the second washer.

[0289] A foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a hinge cover (350) including a second body part (351) disposed on the opposite side of the flexible display with respect to the hinge module (540).

[0290] The shaft bracket of the foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a shaft bracket body portion (5291) extending in a plane perpendicular to the folding axis.

[0291] The shaft bracket of the foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flange portion (5292) extending in the second lateral direction from the shaft bracket body portion, positioned between the first shaft and the second shaft, and having a coupling hole (529a) formed therein through which a fixing member for fixing the shaft bracket to the second body portion passes.

[0292] The end of the second side-facing portion of the structural portion of the foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be disposed on the first side-facing portion of the coupling hole.

[0293] The first linkage gear of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first linkage gear body portion (3241a) composed of a spur gear.

[0294] The second linkage gear of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second linkage gear body portion (3242a) composed of a spur gear.

[0295] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, both ends of the teeth (T) formed on each of the first linkage gear body part and the second linkage gear body part of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) may have a chamfered shape (CH).

[0296] The first linkage gear of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first linkage gear body portion (3241a) provided as a spur gear.

[0297] The second linkage gear of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second linkage gear body part (3242a) provided as a spur gear.

[0298] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the diameter (D) of each of the first linkage gear body portion and the second linkage gear body portion of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) may be 2.56 mm or less.

[0299] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first lateral length (L) of each of the first linkage gear body portion and the second linkage gear body portion of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) may be 1.85 mm or more.

[0300] A foldable electronic device (301) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a first hinge plate (381) arranged between the hinge module (321) and the flexible display (360) in the first housing portion area to support the flexible display.

[0301] A foldable electronic device (301) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a second hinge plate (382) disposed between the hinge module and the flexible display in the second housing portion area to support the flexible display.

[0302] In a foldable electronic device (301) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, at least a portion of a region of the first hinge plate that does not laterally overlap with the center bar and at least a portion of a region of the second hinge plate that does not laterally overlap with the center bar may protrude toward the folding axis.

[0303] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the end of the first hinge plate facing the second side and the end of the second hinge plate facing the second side may be adjacent to each other.

[0304] The center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hole (343) formed in a central area of ​​the center bar.

[0305] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a foldable housing (310; 410) including a first housing portion (311; 411) and a second housing portion (312; 412).

[0306] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge module (320; 420; 520) connected to the first housing portion and the second housing portion and rotatably connecting the first housing portion and the second housing portion about a folding axis (F) located between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0307] A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a flexible display (360) disposed on the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0308] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hinge bracket (321; 421; 521).

[0309] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first shaft (3221) extending in a first lateral direction parallel to the folding axis from the hinge bracket and rotating around a first axis (Ax1) parallel to the folding axis.

[0310] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second shaft (3222) extending in the first lateral direction from the hinge bracket and rotating around a second axis (Ax2) parallel to the first axis.

[0311] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first gear (3231) disposed on the first lateral side of the hinge bracket and fixed to the first shaft.

[0312] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a second gear (3232) disposed on the first lateral side of the hinge bracket and fixed to the second shaft.

[0313] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first linkage gear (3241; 5241) and a second linkage gear (3242; 5242) that are arranged between the first gear and the second gear and enable the implementation of an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device by interlocking the rotation of the first gear and the second gear.

[0314] The hinge module of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a center bar (340; 440; 540) configured to support the flexible display when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state and to descend toward the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear while the foldable electronic device is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state.

[0315] The center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to extend to an area that overlaps at least the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear in a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction, and to be out of contact with the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear when the center bar is lowered in a folded state of the foldable electronic device.

[0316] The hinge bracket of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a recessed portion (3213) adjacent to the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear.

[0317] The center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may extend to an area at least partially overlapping with the recessed portion in the second lateral direction.

[0318] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the distance between the recessed portion and the center bar of the foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) may be greater than the distance between the first linkage gear and the center bar and the distance between the second linkage gear and the center bar.

[0319] The center bar (440; 540) of the foldable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may extend to an end region facing the second side of the hinge bracket (421; 521).

[0320] The center bar (440) of the foldable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first body portion (441) extending parallel to the folding axis, and a reinforcing portion (445) protruding in the direction in which the center bar descends from an end of the first body portion facing the second side.

[0321] A foldable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a hinge cover (450) including a second body portion (351) disposed on the side in which the center bar of the hinge module (421) descends, and a wall portion (452) extending from an end of the second body portion facing the second side toward the flexible display.

[0322] The reinforcing portion of the foldable electronic device (401) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be placed in a gap (G) formed between the hinge bracket and the wall portion.

[0323] The center bar (540) of the foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a structural portion (540a) arranged on the first lateral side of the first linkage gear (5241) and the second linkage gear (5242).

[0324] The center bar (540) of the foldable electronic device (501) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plate portion (540b) disposed on the structural portion and extending to at least an area overlapping the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear.

[0325] Although the detailed description of the present disclosure has described specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0326] While this disclosure has been described by way of example and example, it should be understood that the example is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the overall scope of this disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

In a foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501), A foldable housing (310; 410) comprising a first housing portion (311; 411) and a second housing portion (312; 412); A hinge module (320; 420; 520) connected to the first housing portion and the second housing portion and rotatably connecting the first housing portion and the second housing portion about a folding axis (F) located between the first housing portion and the second housing portion; It includes a flexible display (360) disposed on the first housing part and the second housing part, The above hinge module, Hinge bracket (321; 421; 521); A first shaft (3221) extending in a first lateral direction parallel to the folding axis from the hinge bracket and rotating around a first axis (Ax1) parallel to the folding axis; A second shaft (3222) extending in the first lateral direction from the hinge bracket and rotating around a second axis (Ax2) parallel to the first axis; A first arm (3261) fixed to the first shaft; A second arm (3262) fixed to the second shaft; A first gear (3231) disposed between the first arm and the hinge bracket and fixed to the first shaft; A second gear (3232) disposed between the second arm and the hinge bracket and fixed to the second shaft; A first linkage gear (3241; 5241) and a second linkage gear (3242; 5242) arranged between the first gear and the second gear and linking the rotation of the first gear and the second gear to enable implementation of an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state of the foldable electronic device; A first washer (3301; 5301) arranged on the first lateral side of the first arm and configured to be fixed to the first shaft and rotate together with the first shaft; A second washer (3302; 5302) arranged on the first lateral side of the second arm and configured to be fixed to the second shaft and rotate together with the second shaft; A center bar (340; 440; 540) connected to the first washer and the second washer, configured to support the flexible display when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, and to descend toward the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear while the foldable electronic device is changed from an unfolded state to a folded state, A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) wherein the center bar extends in a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction to at least an area overlapping the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear, thereby expanding a support area for supporting the flexible display, and is configured so that the center bar does not come into contact with the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear when the center bar is lowered in a folded state of the foldable electronic device. In the first paragraph, The above hinge bracket includes a recessed portion (3213) adjacent to the first linkage gear and the second linkage gear, The center bar extends in the second lateral direction to an area at least partially overlapping the recessed portion, A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) wherein the distance between the recessed portion and the center bar is greater than the distance between the first linkage gear and the center bar and the distance between the second linkage gear and the center bar. In claim 1 or 2, The above center bar (440; 540) is a foldable electronic device (401; 501) extending to the end area facing the second side of the hinge bracket (421; 521). In the third paragraph, The center bar (440) is a foldable electronic device (401) including a first body portion (441) extending parallel to the folding axis, and a reinforcing portion (445) protruding in the direction in which the center bar descends from an end of the first body portion facing the second side. In paragraph 4, The hinge module (421) further includes a second body portion (351) disposed on the side in which the center bar descends, and a hinge cover (450) including a wall portion (452) extending from the end of the second body portion facing the second side toward the flexible display. A foldable electronic device (401) in which the above reinforcement part is placed in a gap (G) formed between the hinge bracket and the wall part. In paragraph 4 or 5, The above center bar (440) includes a guide rail (446) that protrudes from the surface facing the first side of the reinforcement part and extends along the direction in which the center bar descends. A foldable electronic device (401) in which a guide rail groove (4213) is formed at the end of the hinge bracket (421) facing the second side, the guide rail groove extending along the direction in which the center bar descends and the guide rail is slidably seated therein. In any one of claims 1 to 6, The above center bar is, A first body portion (341; 441; 541) extending in a direction parallel to the above folding axis; and A connecting portion (342; 542) protruding from the first body portion in the direction in which the center bar descends and arranged on the first lateral side of the first washer and the second washer to be connected to the first washer and the second washer, The above foldable electronic device, A shaft bracket (329) connected to the first shaft and the second shaft and arranged adjacent to the second side-facing surface of the first washer and the second washer; and A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) further comprising a damping member (344; 544) fixed to at least one of the first body portion or the connecting portion and disposed between the connecting portion and the shaft bracket. In any one of the first to seventh paragraphs, A first rotate member (5311) mounted on the hinge bracket (521) and configured to rotate about a third axis (Ax3) parallel to the folding axis with respect to the hinge bracket while the foldable electronic device is changed between an unfolded state and a folded state; and Further comprising a second rotate member (5312) mounted on the hinge bracket and configured to rotate about a fourth axis (Ax4) parallel to the folding axis with respect to the hinge bracket while the foldable electronic device is changed between an unfolded state and a folded state; When the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, the center bar (540) extends at least to an area overlapping the first rotate member and the second rotate member, A foldable electronic device (501) wherein the center bar includes an opening (O) formed in an area overlapping an end (EP) of the first rotate member facing the folding axis and an end (EP) of the second rotate member facing the folding axis when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state. In any one of claims 1 to 8, The above center bar (540) is A structural member (540a) connected to the first washer (5301) and the second washer (5302); and A foldable electronic device (501) further comprising a plate portion (540b) disposed on the above structural portion and extending to at least an area overlapping the first linkage gear (5241) and the second linkage gear (5242). In paragraph 9, A shaft bracket (529) connected to the first shaft and the second shaft and arranged adjacent to the second side-facing surface of the first washer and the second washer; and It further includes a hinge cover (350) including a second body part (351) arranged on the opposite side of the flexible display with respect to the hinge module (540). The above shaft bracket, A shaft bracket body (5291) extending in a plane perpendicular to the above folding axis; and A flange portion (5292) extending in the second lateral direction from the shaft bracket body portion, positioned between the first shaft and the second shaft, and having a coupling hole (529a) formed therein through which a fixing member for fixing the shaft bracket to the second body portion passes, A foldable electronic device (501) in which the end of the second side of the above-mentioned structural part is arranged on the first side of the above-mentioned coupling hole. In any one of claims 1 to 10, The above first linkage gear includes a first linkage gear body (3241a) composed of a spur gear, The second linkage gear includes a second linkage gear body (3242a) composed of a spur gear, A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) in which both ends of the teeth (T) formed on each of the first linkage gear body portion and the second linkage gear body portion have a chamfered shape (CH). In any one of claims 1 to 11, The above first linkage gear includes a first linkage gear body (3241a) equipped with a spur gear, The second linkage gear includes a second linkage gear body (3242a) equipped with a spur gear, The diameter (D) of each of the first linkage gear body portion and the second linkage gear body portion is 2.56 mm or less, A foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) wherein the first lateral length (L) of each of the first linkage gear body portion and the second linkage gear body portion is 1.85 mm or more. In any one of the first, second, seventh, eleventh and twelfth clauses, In the first housing portion area, a first hinge plate (381) arranged between the hinge module (321) and the flexible display (360) to support the flexible display; and In the above 2 housing portion area, a second hinge plate (382) is further included, which is arranged between the hinge module and the flexible display and is configured to support the flexible display. A foldable electronic device (301) in which, when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, at least a portion of a region of the first hinge plate that does not overlap laterally with the center bar and at least a portion of a region of the second hinge plate that does not overlap laterally with the center bar protrudes toward the folding axis. In Article 13, A foldable electronic device (301) in which the end of the first hinge plate facing the second side and the end of the second hinge plate facing the second side are adjacent to each other. In any one of claims 1 to 14, The center bar is a foldable electronic device (301; 401; 501) including a hole (343) formed in the central area of ​​the center bar.

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