Electronic device comprising center bar

Abstract

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device can be provided. The electronic device may comprise: a housing including a first housing, a second housing and a hinge cover; a flexible display disposed in the housing; a hinge assembly to which the first housing and the second housing are rotatably connected and which includes a center bar disposed to face the hinge cover; and a flexible circuit board and a fixing member disposed in the housing. The flexible circuit board can include: a first portion disposed in the first housing; a second portion disposed in the second housing; and a bending area disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The fixing member can be disposed in the housing to face the center bar with a portion of the bending area interposed therebetween. The center bar includes a guide groove, and the bending area can include a first protrusion disposed in the guide groove.

Description

Electronic device including center bar

[0001] Examples of the present disclosure relate to a center bar and an electronic device including the same.

[0002] Advances in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology are integrating diverse functions into a single portable electronic device. For example, electronic devices can implement not only communication functions but also entertainment features like gaming, multimedia functions like music and video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, or even calendar management and electronic wallet functions. These electronic devices are becoming smaller and more portable for users.

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

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge cover, a flexible display disposed in the housing, a hinge assembly including a center bar rotatably connected to the first housing and facing the hinge cover, and a flexible circuit board and a fixing member disposed within the housing. The flexible circuit board may include a first portion disposed within the first housing, a second portion disposed within the second housing, and a bending region disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The fixing member may be disposed within the housing to face the center bar with a portion of the bending region interposed therebetween. The center bar may include a guide groove, and the bending region may include a first protrusion configured to be disposed within the guide groove.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge cover, a flexible display disposed in the housing, a hinge assembly including a center bar rotatably connected to the first housing and facing the hinge cover, and a flexible circuit board and a fixing member disposed within the housing. The flexible circuit board may include a first portion disposed within the first housing, a second portion disposed within the second housing, and a bending area disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The fixing member may be disposed within the housing to face the center bar with a portion of the bending area interposed therebetween. The center bar and the fixing member may each include a coupling structure formed to be interlocked with each other.

[0006] The above-described aspects or other aspects, configurations and / or advantages of one embodiment of the present disclosure may be further clarified by the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

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

[0008] FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2b is a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

[0012] FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a hinge assembly and a center bar of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

[0014] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional side view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5 of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional side view illustrating a portion of a configuration of an electronic device in an intermediate state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7c is a cross-sectional side view showing a portion of a configuration of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8A is a plan view of a center bar according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8b is a rear view of a center bar according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8c is a cross-sectional side view of a center bar according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 9A is a plan view of a flexible circuit board according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 9b is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 9a.

[0022] FIG. 10A is a drawing showing a flexible circuit board and a center bar according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10b is a side view taken along line C-C' of FIG. 10a according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11a is a plan view of a fixing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 11b is a side view of a fixing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 12A is a drawing showing a flexible circuit board, a center bar, and a fixing member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 12b is a side view taken along line D-D' of FIG. 12a according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It is a razor blade.

[0028] FIG. 13A is a drawing for explaining a state in which a flexible circuit board of an electronic device is mounted according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 13b is a drawing for explaining a state in which a center bar of an electronic device is mounted according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 13c is a drawing for explaining a state in which a flexible circuit board of an electronic device is mounted according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 13d is an enlarged view of part E of Figure 13c.

[0032] FIG. 13e is a drawing showing a state before a hinge cover of an electronic device is mounted, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 13f is a drawing showing a state in which a hinge cover of an electronic device is mounted according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 13g is a drawing for explaining a state in which a flexible circuit board of an electronic device is mounted according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 14A is an exploded perspective view of a first guide member for a first housing of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 14b is a cross-sectional side view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5 of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 14c is a cross-sectional side view illustrating a configuration of a portion of an electronic device in an intermediate state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 14d is a cross-sectional side view showing a portion of a configuration of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 15A is an exploded perspective view of a center bar and a buffer member of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 15b is a cross-sectional side view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5 of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 15c is a cross-sectional side view showing a portion of a configuration of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Throughout the attached drawings, similar reference numbers may be assigned to similar parts, components and / or structures.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)) omitted, or one or more other components added. In one embodiment, 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)).

[0045] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0046] 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, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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).

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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.

[0051] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external device (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a hall area program device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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).

[0056] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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 one embodiment, 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).

[0063] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0064] 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)).

[0065] 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 one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using 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.

[0066] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are diagrams illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 3 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1.

[0068] The embodiments of FIGS. 2A to 3 may be combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1, or the embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 15C below.

[0069] In the detailed description below in FIG. 2A, the longitudinal direction of the electronic device (101) may be defined as the 'Y-axis direction', the width direction as the 'X-axis direction', and / or the height direction (thickness direction) as the 'Z-axis direction'. In the detailed description below, references to the longitudinal direction, the width direction, and / or the height direction (or thickness direction) may indicate the longitudinal direction, the width direction, and / or the height direction (or thickness direction) of the electronic device (10). In some embodiments, with respect to the direction in which the components are oriented, 'negative / positive (- / +)' may be mentioned together with the rectangular coordinate system illustrated in the drawings. In FIG. 2A to FIG. 3, the arrangement relationship in the height direction of any component or another component, i.e., the reference for up / down, may follow the +Z-axis direction / -Z-axis direction.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 2A to 3, an electronic device (101) may include a housing (201) for accommodating components of the electronic device (101) and a flexible display (hereinafter, referred to as a display (240)) disposed within a space formed by the housing (201). According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may be referred to as a foldable housing. According to one embodiment, the display (240) may be referred to as a foldable display. The electronic device (101) may also be referred to as a foldable electronic device. The term "foldable electronic device" may refer to an electronic device that can be folded so that two different regions of the display face each other or face opposite to each other. Typically, in a portable state, a display in a foldable electronic device is folded so that the two different regions face each other or face each other, and in an actual use state, a user can unfold the display so that the two different regions form a substantially flat form.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220) configured to rotate relative to the first housing (210).

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the surface on which the display (240) is visually exposed may be defined as a front surface (e.g., a first front surface (210a) and a second front surface (220a)) of the electronic device (101) and / or the housing (201). The surface opposite the front surface may be defined as a back surface (e.g., a first back surface (210b) and a second back surface (220b)) of the electronic device (101). The surface surrounding at least a portion of the space between the front surface and the back surface may be defined as a side surface (e.g., a first side surface (210c) and a second side surface (220c)) of the electronic device (101).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) can be rotatably connected to the second housing (220) using a hinge assembly (e.g., hinge assembly (280) of FIG. 4) including a hinge cover (230). For example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can each be rotatably connected to the hinge assembly (e.g., hinge assembly (280) of FIG. 4). Accordingly, the electronic device (101) can be changed into a folded state (e.g., FIG. 3) or an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2a and 2b). In the above electronic device (101), in a folded state, the first front surface (210a) may face the second front surface (220a), and in an unfolded state, the direction in which the first front surface (210a) faces may be substantially the same as the direction in which the second front surface (220a) faces. For example, in an unfolded state, the first front surface (210a) may be positioned on substantially the same plane as the second front surface (220a). According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may provide relative movement with respect to the first housing (210).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are arranged on both sides with respect to the folding axis (A) as the center, and may have a shape that is overall symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (A). The angle between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be changed depending on whether the state of the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a hinge cover (230). At least a portion of the hinge cover (230) may be disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (230) may be covered by a portion of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) or may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) depending on the state of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (230) may protect a hinge assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly (280) of FIG. 4) from an external impact of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (230) may secure a plurality of hinge assemblies (280-1, 280-2) to the hinge cover (230). According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (230) may be interpreted as a hinge housing for protecting and / or securing a hinge assembly (e.g., hinge assembly (280) of FIG. 4).

[0076] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (230) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and may not be exposed. According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the hinge cover (230) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the hinge cover (230) may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than in the fully folded state. In one embodiment, the hinge cover (230) may include a curved surface.

[0077] In one embodiment, the display (240) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display (240) may include, for example, a holographic device or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display (240) 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.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the display (240) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the display can be transformed into a flat or curved surface. For example, the display (240) may be formed to be variable in response to the relative movement of the second housing (220) with respect to the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, the display (240) may include a folding area (243), a first display area (241) positioned on one side (e.g., upper (+Y direction)) of the folding area (243), and a second display area (242) positioned on the other side (e.g., lower (-Y direction)). According to one embodiment, the folding area (243) may be positioned on a hinge assembly (e.g., hinge assembly (280) of FIG. 4). For example, at least a portion of the folding area (243) may face a hinge assembly (e.g., hinge assembly (280) of FIG. 4). In one embodiment, the first display area (241) may be disposed on the first housing (210), and the second display area (242) may be disposed on the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the display (240) may be accommodated in the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0079] However, the division of the areas of the display (240) illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B is exemplary, and the display (240) may be divided into multiple areas (for example, four or more or two) depending on the structure or function.

[0080] Additionally, in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the display (240) may be divided into regions by a folding region (243) extending parallel to the X-axis or a folding axis (A-axis). In one embodiment, the display (240) may also be divided into regions based on another folding region (e.g., a folding region parallel to the Y-axis) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the Y-axis). In one embodiment, the display (240) may be coupled to or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer configured to detect a magnetic field type digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a rear display (244). The rear display (244) may be arranged to face a different direction than the display (240). For example, the display (240) may be visually exposed through the front side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first front side (210a) and / or the second front side (220a)), and the rear display (244) may be visually exposed through the rear side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first rear side (210b)).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one camera module (204, 206) and a flash (208). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a front camera module (204) exposed through a front side (e.g., a first front side (210a)) and / or a rear camera module (206) exposed through a rear side (e.g., a first rear side (210b)). The camera modules (204, 206) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, a flash, and / or an image signal processor. The flash (208) may include a light emitting diode or a xenon lamp. According to one embodiment, 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). The configuration of the front camera module (204) and / or the rear camera module (206) may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the camera module (180) of FIG. 1.

[0083] Although the electronic device (101) disclosed in FIGS. 2A to 3 has the appearance of a foldable electronic device, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the illustrated electronic device may be a part of a rollable electronic device or a bar-type or plate-type electronic device. The term "rollable electronic device" may refer to an electronic device in which a display (e.g., a display (240) of FIGS. 2A and 2B) is capable of bending deformation, such that at least a portion thereof is wound or rolled, or can be accommodated inside a housing (e.g., a housing (210) of FIGS. 2A and 2B). Depending on the user's needs, the rollable electronic device can be used by expanding the screen display area by unfolding the display or exposing a wider area of ​​the display to the outside.

[0084] Although the electronic device (101) disclosed in FIGS. 2A to 4 has the appearance of a foldable electronic device, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the illustrated electronic device may be a bar type, a plate type, or a rollable electronic device. The term "rollable electronic device" may refer to an electronic device in which a display (e.g., the display (240) of FIG. 4) is capable of bending deformation, such that at least a portion thereof may be wound or rolled, or may be accommodated inside a housing (e.g., the housing (201) of FIG. 2). Depending on the user's needs, the rollable electronic device can be used by expanding the screen display area by unfolding the display or exposing a wider area of ​​the display to the outside.

[0085] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] The embodiment of FIG. 4 can be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a display (240), a hinge cover (230), a battery (250), a printed circuit board (260), a flexible printed circuit board (270), and a hinge assembly (280). The configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the display (240), and the hinge cover (230) of FIG. 4 may be all or part of the same as the configuration of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), the display (240), and the hinge cover (230) of FIG. 2 and / or FIG. 3.

[0088] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first support structure (212) and a second support structure (222). For example, the first housing (210) may include the first support structure (212), and the second housing (220) may include the second support structure (222). In one embodiment, the first support structure (212) and / or the second support structure (222) may support components of the electronic device (101), such as a display (240), a battery (250), and a printed circuit board (260).

[0089] In one embodiment, the first support structure (212) and / or the second support structure (222) may be formed of a metallic material and / or a non-metallic (e.g., polymer) material. In one embodiment, the first support structure (212) may be disposed between the display (240) and the battery (250). For example, the display (240) may be coupled to one surface of the first support structure (212), and the battery (250) and the printed circuit board (260) may be disposed on the other surface.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first protective member (214) and a second protective member (224). For example, the first housing (210) may include the first protective member (214), and the second housing (220) may include the second protective member (224). According to one embodiment, the protective members (214, 224) may protect the display (240) from external impact. For example, the first protective member (214) may surround at least a portion of a part of the display (240) (e.g., the first display area (231) of FIG. 2), and the second protective member (224) may surround at least a portion of another part of the display (240) (e.g., the second display area (232) of FIG. 2). In one embodiment, the first protective member (214) may be referred to as a first fixing member, and the second protective member (224) may be referred to as a second fixing member.

[0091] In one embodiment, the housing (210, 220) may include a first back plate (216) and a second back plate (226). For example, the first housing (210) may include a first back plate (216) connected to a first support structure (212), and the second housing (220) may include a second back plate (226) connected to a second support structure (222). In one embodiment, the back plates (216, 226) may form a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101). For example, the first back plate (216) may form a first back surface (e.g., the first back surface (210b) of FIGS. 2-3), and the second back plate (226) may form a second back surface (e.g., the second back surface (220b) of FIGS. 2-3). According to one embodiment, the first battery (252) and the first printed circuit board (262) may be disposed between the first support structure (212) and the first back plate (216), and the second battery (254) and the second printed circuit board (264) may be disposed between the second support structure (222) and the second back plate (226).

[0092] In one embodiment, the hinge cover (230) can accommodate at least a portion of the hinge assembly (280). For example, the hinge cover (230) can include a receiving groove (232) for accommodating the hinge assembly (280). In one embodiment, the hinge cover (230) can be coupled with the hinge assembly (280). In one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is unfolded, at least a portion of the hinge cover (230) can be positioned between the hinge assembly (280) and the housing (210, 220).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the battery (250) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the electronic device (101), and may include a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. The battery (250) may be integrally disposed within the electronic device (101), or may be detachably disposed with the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (250) may include a first battery (252) disposed within a first housing (210) and a second battery (254) disposed within a second housing (220). For example, the first battery (252) may be disposed on a first support structure (212), and the second battery (254) may be disposed on a second support structure (222).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the printed circuit board (260) may be equipped with a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1), and / or an interface (e.g., interface (177) of FIG. 1). According to one embodiment, the printed circuit board (260) may include a first printed circuit board (262) disposed within a first housing (210) and a second printed circuit board (264) disposed within a second housing (220).

[0095] In one embodiment, a flexible printed circuit board (270) can electrically connect components located in a first housing (210) (e.g., a first printed circuit board (262)) and components located in a second housing (220) (e.g., a second printed circuit board (264)). In one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (270) can be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible printed circuit board (270) can traverse the hinge cover (230) and / or the hinge assembly (280). For example, a portion of the flexible printed circuit board (270) can be disposed within the first housing (210) and another portion can be disposed within the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (270) can be connected to an antenna or connected to a display (240). According to one embodiment, the flexible printed circuit board (270) can be configured such that at least one portion is bendable.

[0096] In one embodiment, the hinge assembly (280) can be connected to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) can be rotated relative to the second housing (220) using the hinge assembly (280). In one embodiment, the hinge assembly (280) can be rotatably connected to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) from a folded state (e.g., FIG. 3) to an unfolded state (e.g., FIG. 2).

[0097] In one embodiment, the hinge assembly (280) may include a plurality of hinge assemblies (280-1, 280-2) arranged in parallel. For example, the hinge assembly (280) may include a first hinge assembly (280-1) and a second hinge assembly (280-2) spaced apart from the first hinge assembly (280-1). In one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (280-1) may be symmetrical with respect to the second hinge assembly (280-2) with respect to the longitudinal direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101).

[0098] Although the electronic device (101) disclosed in FIGS. 2A to 4 has the appearance of a foldable electronic device, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the illustrated electronic device may be a bar type, a plate type, or a rollable electronic device. The term "rollable electronic device" may refer to an electronic device in which a display (e.g., the display (240) of FIG. 4) is capable of bending deformation, such that at least a portion thereof may be wound or rolled, or may be accommodated inside a housing (e.g., the housing (201) of FIG. 2). Depending on the user's needs, the rollable electronic device may be used by expanding the display area by unfolding the display or exposing a wider area of ​​the display to the outside.

[0099] FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a hinge assembly and a center bar of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a component of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7a is a side cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5 of the electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7b is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a component of an electronic device in an intermediate state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7c is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a component of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8a is a plan view of a center bar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8b is a rear view of the center bar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8c is a side cross-sectional view of the center bar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] The entire or partial configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 5 may be identical or similar to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0101] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 8C, according to one embodiment, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 5) may include a housing (301) (e.g., the housing (201) of FIGS. 2A to 4), a flexible display (340) (e.g., the display (240) of FIGS. 2A to 4), a hinge assembly (303) including a center-bar structure (360), a flexible circuit board (350) (e.g., the flexible printed circuit board (270) of FIG. 4), and a fixing member (370) disposed facing the center-bar structure (360) with a portion (e.g., a bending region (353)) of the flexible circuit board (350) interposed therebetween within the housing. As described below, according to the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure, the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370) of the electronic device (101) may fix and / or support a portion (e.g., a bending area (353)) of the flexible circuit board (350) within the housing (201) and may serve to prevent interference between the flexible display (340) and the flexible circuit board (350).

[0102] FIG. 7a shows a state in which the electronic device (101) is fully unfolded, FIG. 7b shows a state in which the electronic device (101) is in an intermediate state in which the first housing (311) and the second housing (312) are folded at a certain angle, and FIG. 7c shows a state in which the electronic device (101) is fully folded.

[0103] In one embodiment, the housing (301) may include a first housing (311), a second housing (312) rotatably connected to the first housing (311), and a hinge cover (330) (e.g., hinge cover (230) of FIGS. 3 and 4) disposed at least partially between the first housing (311) and the second housing (312). In one embodiment, at least a portion of a hinge assembly (303) to which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are rotatably connected may be disposed in the space between the hinge cover (330) and the flexible display (340).

[0104] In one embodiment, the hinge assembly (303) may include at least one hinge structure (323, 324), a first support member (321), a second support member (322), and a center bar (360).

[0105] In one embodiment, at least one hinge structure (323, 324) may include a first hinge structure (323) and a second hinge structure (324) configured to rotatably connect the first housing (311) and the second housing (312) to each other. In one embodiment, the first hinge structure (323) and the second hinge structure (324) may be connected to the center bar (360) and may be spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the center bar (360) with at least a portion of the flexible circuit board (350) therebetween.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the first support member (321) and the second support member (322) of the hinge assembly (303) may be configured to be connected to the first housing (311) and the second housing (312), respectively, to assist in the rotation of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the first support member (321) and the second support member (322) may be connected to the center bar (360) and may be spaced apart from each other along the width direction of the center bar (360) (e.g., the Y-axis direction) with at least a portion of the center bar (360) therebetween. According to one embodiment, the first support member (321) and the second support member (322) may be configured to support at least a portion of the back surface of the flexible display (340) (or a surface facing the back surface of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first back surface 210b and the second back surface 220b of FIG. 2b)). For example, at least a portion of the first support member (321) and the second support member (322) may be bonded or coupled to the rear surface (e.g., the -Z direction surface) of the flexible display (340). For example, the first support member (321) may correspond to the first display area (e.g., the first display area (231) of FIG. 2A), and the second support member (322) may correspond to the second display area (e.g., the second display area (232) of FIG. 2A). According to one embodiment, the first support member (321) and the second support member (322) may be spaced apart from each other with the center bar (360) therebetween.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may be a foldable terminal that includes a single center bar (360) and is configured to be rotatable about a single folding axis (e.g., the folding axis (A) of FIG. 2A), but is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may be a multi-foldable terminal that is configured to be rotatable about a plurality (e.g., two) of folding axes that are spaced apart from each other, in which case it may include a plurality (e.g., two) of the arranged center bars (360) and a plurality (e.g., two) of the corresponding fixing members (370).

[0108] In one embodiment, the center bar (360) may serve to fix, shape, and / or support a portion (e.g., a bending region (353)) of the flexible circuit board (350) together with the fixing member (370) at a designed position within the housing (201) and prevent interference between the flexible display (340) and the flexible circuit board (350). In the present disclosure, shaping the flexible circuit board (350) may mean supporting or fixing at least a portion of the flexible circuit board (350) so that the center of the flexible circuit board (350) is maintained at the designed position without being affected by repetitive folding operations of the foldable (or multi-foldable) type electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the center bar (360) may be disposed to face the hinge cover (230; 330). According to one embodiment, the center bar (360) may be positioned between the folding area of ​​the flexible display (340) (e.g., the folding area (243) of FIG. 4) and the hinge cover (230; 330).

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 8A to 8C, according to one embodiment, the center bar (360) may include a seating area (361), a through hole (362), a first side wall (363), and a second side wall (364).

[0110] According to one embodiment, a bending region (353) of a flexible circuit board (350) may be arranged in the mounting region (361). For example, the shape of the mounting region (361) may be formed to correspond to a portion of the bending region (353), and for example, a width (e.g., width in the X-axis direction) of the mounting region (361) may be greater than or equal to a width (e.g., width in the X-axis direction) of the bending region (353). According to one embodiment, a first side wall (363) and a second side wall (364) may be arranged on both sides of the mounting region (361). For example, the mounting region (361), the first side wall (363), and the second side wall (364) may form a space, together with a fixing member (370), for a portion of the bending region (353) of the flexible circuit board (350) to be arranged. According to one embodiment, a fastening member (e.g., a second fastening member (382) of FIG. 13g) for fastening the center bar (360) to another structure inside the electronic device (101) may be placed in the through hole (362).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the center bar (360) may further include at least one guide groove (3611) for guiding the installation position of the bending region (353) of the flexible circuit board (350). According to one embodiment, the guide groove (3611) of the center bar (360) may include a plurality (e.g., two) of guide grooves (3611) formed on both sides (or both end regions) of the mounting region (361) of the center bar (360).

[0112] According to one embodiment, a part of the bending region (353) of the flexible circuit board (350) (e.g., the first protrusion (3531)) may be disposed in the guide groove (3611). For example, the guide groove (3611) of the center bar (360) and a part of the bending region (353) (e.g., the first protrusion (3531)) may be formed to interlock with each other, thereby helping to support or maintain the bending region (353) at the installation position on the seating region (361) when the bending region (353) is installed on the center bar (360). According to one embodiment, the guide groove (3611) and a part of the bending region (353) disposed in the guide groove (3611) (e.g., the first protrusion (3531)) may be formed to at least partially interlock with each other. According to one embodiment, the guide groove (3611) may include a recess or groove that is concavely formed in a boundary region between the first side wall (363) and the seating area (361) and / or a boundary region between the second side wall (364) and the seating area (361). However, the shape of the guide groove (3611) and a portion of the bending area (353) (e.g., the first protrusion (3531)) arranged in the guide groove (3611) is not limited, and as an example, the guide groove (3611) may include a protrusion, and the bending area (353) may include a recess for positioning the protrusion of the guide groove (3611).

[0113] In one embodiment, the fixing member (370) may serve to fix, shape, and / or support a portion (e.g., bending region (353)) of the flexible circuit board (350) together with the center bar (360) at a designed position within the housing (201). Referring to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the fixing member (370) may be in a form extending in the longitudinal direction of the center bar (360), and may be, for example, a bar-shaped plate member.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 7A to 7C , according to one embodiment, the fixing member (370) may be disposed to face the center bar (360) with a portion of the bending region (353) of the flexible circuit board (350) interposed therebetween. According to one embodiment, the fixing member (370) may be disposed between the center bar (360) and the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, the fixing member (370) may be closer to the flexible display (340) than the center bar (360), and the center bar (360) may be closer to the hinge cover (330) than the fixing member (370). According to one embodiment, the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370) may be disposed such that their centers are aligned with the centers of the hinge cover (330) and / or the flexible display (340) in the thickness direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) of the electronic device (101). For example, the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370) may contact one side and the opposite side of the bending area (353) of the flexible circuit board (350), respectively. For example, the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370) may support the bending area (353) of the flexible circuit board (350) in the vertical direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). According to one embodiment, the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370) may serve to shape the flexible circuit board (350) (e.g., the flexible circuit board (270) of FIG. 4 and the flexible circuit board (350) of FIG. 6) arranged to cross the electronic device (101) in the vertical direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) so as not to be deviated or shifted upward (e.g., in the +Y direction) or downward (e.g., in the -Y direction) from the designed position within the electronic device (101).

[0115] FIG. 9A is a plan view of a flexible circuit board according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9B is an enlarged view of portion B of FIG. 9A. FIG. 10A is a diagram illustrating a flexible circuit board and a center bar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10B is a side view taken along line C-C' of FIG. 10A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11A is a plan view of a fixing member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11B is a side view of a fixing member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating a flexible circuit board, a center bar, and a fixing member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12B is a side view taken along line D-D' of FIG. 12A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B , according to one embodiment, the flexible circuit board (350) may include a first portion (351), a second portion (352), and a bending area (353) disposed between the first portion (351) and the second portion (352). For example, the bending area (353) may refer to an area that is bent or unfolded and variable in accordance with rotation of a hinge assembly (303) of the flexible circuit board (350) or rotation of a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2A to 4) relative to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2A to 4 ). According to one embodiment, the first portion (351) and the second portion (352) of the flexible circuit board (350) can be at least partially disposed within a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2A to 4) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2A to 4), respectively. For example, the first portion (351) can be at least partially coupled or fixed to a structure (e.g., the first support (313)) disposed within the first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2A to 4) and electrically connected to a first circuit board (e.g., the first circuit board (262) of FIG. 4) disposed within the first housing (210). For example, the second portion (352) may be at least partially coupled or secured to a structure (e.g., the second support (314)) disposed within a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2A to 4) and may be electrically connected to a second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board (264) of FIG. 4) disposed within the second housing (220).

[0117] According to one embodiment, a portion (e.g., a central portion) of a bending region (353) of a flexible circuit board (350) may be disposed between a center bar (360) and a fixing member (370) and may be connected, coupled, and / or bonded to the center bar (360) and / or the fixing member (370). For example, a centerline of the bending region (353) may be disposed to be aligned with the centers of the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370), or, in other words, the bending region (353) may be disposed such that both sides of the portion disposed between the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370) are symmetrical.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 9B, 10A, and 10B, according to one embodiment, the bending region (353) of the flexible circuit board (350) may include a first protrusion (3531) to be positioned in a guide groove (3611) of the center bar (360). For example, the first protrusion (3531) may be positioned at a lateral (e.g., X-axis direction) edge of a portion of the bending region (353) located between the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370). In one embodiment, when the guide groove (3611) includes a pair of guide grooves (3611) on both sides of the seating region (361) of the center bar (360), the first protrusion (3531) may also include a pair of first protrusions (3531) corresponding to the pair of guide grooves (3611). However, in the present disclosure, the number of guide grooves (3611) and first protrusions (3531) is not limited, and according to one embodiment (see FIGS. 11A and 11B), the center bar (360) may include a guide groove (3611) formed on one side of the seating area (361), and the bending area (353) may also include a first protrusion (3531) formed protruding on one side of the bending area (353) so as to correspond to the guide groove (3611).

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B , according to one embodiment, the first protrusion (3531) of the bending region (353) may be formed to be able to be seated or positioned in the guide groove (3611) of the center bar (360), and the guide groove (3611) may serve to guide the assembly position or installation position of the bending region (353) on the center bar (360) when assembling the flexible circuit board (350) to the center bar (360). According to one embodiment, the first protrusion (3531) may have a shape that engages with the guide groove (3611). For example, the first protrusion (3531) may be in the form of a protrusion that protrudes laterally (e.g., in the X-axis direction) at a portion of the bending region (353) located between the center bar (360) and the fixing member (370). According to one embodiment, the first protrusion (3531) of the bending area (353) and the guide groove (3611) of the center bar (360) are formed to be interlocked with each other, thereby helping to support or maintain the bending area (353) at the installation position on the seating area (361) in a state where the bending area (353) is installed on the center bar (360). However, in the present disclosure, the shapes of the guide groove (3611) and the first protrusion (3531) are not limited, and as an example, the center bar (360) may include a protrusion for a guide, and the bending area (353) may include a recess for accommodating at least a portion of the protrusion for a guide.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 11B, according to one embodiment, the fixing member (370) and the center bar (360) may each include coupling structures (3612, 3711) formed to be interlocked with each other. According to one embodiment, the fixing member (370) may include a main body (371) and a second protrusion (3711) formed on a portion of the main body (371). Referring to FIG. 11B, according to one embodiment, the center bar (360) may include a recess (3612) formed to be interlocked with the second protrusion (3711) of the fixing member (370). According to one embodiment, the recess (3612) of the center bar (360) may be formed on an inner surface of the first side wall (363) and / or the second side wall (364) or on a surface facing the fixing member (370).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the second protrusion (3711) may be disposed at at least one of the longitudinal (e.g., X-axis) ends of the main body (371). For example, referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, the second protrusion (3711) may include a plurality (e.g., two) of second protrusions (3711) formed at the opposite ends of the main body (371). For example, referring to FIG. 12B, the second protrusion (3711) may be formed at only one of the opposite ends of the main body (371). For example, the recess (3612) of the center bar (360) may be formed singly or in multiples at the position(s) corresponding to the second protrusions (3711) when the fixing member (370) is assembled to the center bar (360). According to one embodiment, the second protrusion (3711) is in the form of a projection formed on a part of the main body (371), and the recess (3612) of the center bar (360) may include a concave portion, a groove, or a hole for receiving at least a part of the second protrusion (3711). However, the shapes of the second protrusion (3711) and the recess (3612) in the disclosure are not limited, and as an example, the fixing member (370) may include a recess, and the center bar (360) may include a protrusion that is at least partially received in the recess.

[0122] In one embodiment, the second protrusion (3711) may include an inclined surface (3111a). For example, the inclined surface (3111a) of the second protrusion (3711) may include a surface that is inclined or forms an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the fixing member (370). For example, the fixing member (370) may be assembled to the center bar (360) with the second protrusion (3711) facing the center bar (360) in the direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, the inclined surface (3111a) of the second protrusion (3711) may facilitate the process of assembling or coupling (e.g., snap-fit ​​coupling) the fixing member (370) to the center bar (360). For example, the second protrusion (3711) may be moved in the assembly direction (e.g., +Z axis direction) so that the inclined surface (3111a) of the second protrusion (3711) slides on the inner surface of the first side wall (363) and / or the second side wall (364) or the surface facing the fixed member (370) and may be seated in the recess (3612) of the center bar (360). However, in the present disclosure, the shape of the second protrusion (3711) of the fixed member (370) is not limited, and any shape that can be fixedly or detachably coupled to the recess (3612) of the center bar (360) may be used.

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B , according to one embodiment, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 6 ) may further include a first fastening member (381) configured to couple the fixing member (370) to the center bar (360). According to one embodiment, the first fastening member (381) may be coupled to an area around the seating area (361) of the center bar (360). According to one embodiment, the center bar (360) may further include a first fastening hole (3613) in which the first fastening member (381) is positioned, and the fixing member (370) may further include a second fastening hole (3713) formed in a position corresponding to or facing the first fastening hole (3613) in which the first fastening member (381) is positioned. According to one embodiment, the first fastening member (381) may include a head portion (381a) positioned above the fixing member (370) and in contact with the periphery of the second fastening hole (3713), and an extension portion (381b) extending from the head portion (381a) and passing through the first fastening hole (3613) and the second fastening hole (3713).

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, according to one embodiment, the center bar (360) may include a first fastening hole (3613) in an area between the first side wall (363) and the seating area (361) and a second recess (3712) formed in a portion of a surface of the second side wall (364) facing the first side wall (363). In this case, a portion of the bending area (353) of the flexible circuit board (350) may be positioned between the first fastening hole (3613) and the second recess (3712) while being disposed in the seating area (361). However, in the present disclosure, the positions and numbers of the first fastening holes (3613) and the second recesses (3712) of the center bar (360) are not limited, and as an example, an embodiment in which the center bar (360) includes a plurality (e.g., two) of first fastening holes (3613) and the fixing member (370) includes a plurality (e.g., two) of second fastening holes (3713), and a plurality of first fastening members (381) are provided is also possible, and in this case, the second protrusion (3711) of the fixing member (370) and the recesses (3612) of the center bar (360) may be provided in one or two numbers, or may be omitted.

[0125] FIG. 13A is a diagram illustrating a state in which a flexible circuit board of an electronic device is mounted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13B is a diagram illustrating a state in which a center bar of an electronic device is mounted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13C is a diagram illustrating a state in which a flexible circuit board of an electronic device is mounted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13D is an enlarged view of a portion E of FIG. 13C. FIG. 13E is a diagram illustrating a state before a hinge cover of an electronic device is mounted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13F is a diagram illustrating a state in which a hinge cover of an electronic device is mounted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13G is a diagram illustrating a state in which a flexible circuit board of an electronic device is mounted according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13G may be referred to as the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 6. The housing (301) including the hinge cover (330), the hinge assembly (303) including the center bar (360), the flexible circuit board (350), and the fixing member (370) of the embodiments of FIGS. 13A to 13G may be referred to as the housing (301) including the hinge cover (330), the hinge assembly (303) including the center bar (360), the flexible circuit board (350), and the fixing member (370) of the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 12B.

[0127] FIGS. 13A to 13G are drawings for explaining embodiments of installing, assembling, or combining a flexible circuit board (350), a center bar (360) of a hinge assembly (303) (e.g., the hinge assembly (303) of FIGS. 5 to 7), a fixing member (370), and a hinge cover (330) of a housing (e.g., the housing (301) of FIGS. 5 and 6) of an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 6) according to the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 6 to 12B.

[0128] FIG. 13A may illustrate a state in which a flexible circuit board (350) is assembled to an electronic device (101) according to one embodiment. FIG. 13B may illustrate a state in which a center bar (360) is assembled to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 13A according to one embodiment. For example, the center bar (360) may be positioned across the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the flexible circuit board (350) on the central portion of the bending region (353) of the flexible circuit board (350).

[0129] FIG. 13C may show a structure of a flexible circuit board (350) when the electronic device (101) is folded (see FIG. 3) and the hinge cover (330) is removed. Referring to FIGS. 13C and 13D, as in FIG. 13B, when the center bar (360) is placed on the bending area (353) of the flexible circuit board (350), the first protrusion (3531) of the bending area (353) may be placed in the guide groove (3611) of the center bar (360). As described above with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B, according to one embodiment, the guide groove (3611) may serve to guide the assembly position or installation position of the bending area (353) on the center bar (360) when assembling the flexible circuit board (350) to the center bar (360). A user or manufacturer can easily and intuitively check whether the installation position or assembly position of the center bar (360) on the flexible circuit board (350) is correct by checking whether the first protrusion (3531) is received in the guide groove (3611) as shown in FIGS. 13c and 13d.

[0130] FIG. 13E may illustrate, according to one embodiment, a state in which a fixing member (370) is placed and / or assembled in a central portion of a bending region (353) of a flexible circuit board (350). FIG. 13F may illustrate, according to one embodiment, a state in which a fixing member (370) is placed and / or assembled in an electronic device (101) (e.g., a center bar (360)) in the state of FIG. 13E. FIG. 13G may illustrate, according to one embodiment, a state in which a center bar (360) is fixed or coupled within an electronic device (101) in the state of FIG. 13E or FIG. 13F. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a second fastening member (382) (e.g., a screw means) connected to the center bar (360). For example, the second fastening member (382) may be fixed or coupled to another structure inside the electronic device (101) by passing through the through hole (362) of the center bar (360). As described above with reference to FIGS. 13A to 13G , according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the flexible circuit board (350), the center bar (360), the fixing member (370), and the hinge cover (330) are easily detachably or disassembleably assembled or coupled to the electronic device (101), self-repair by a user for repair or replacement of the flexible circuit board (350), the center bar (360), the fixing member (370), and / or the hinge cover (330) may be possible.

[0131] FIG. 14A is an exploded perspective view of a first guide member for a first housing of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14B is a side cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5 of the electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14C is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a configuration of an electronic device in an intermediate state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14D is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a configuration of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15A is an exploded perspective view of a center bar and a buffer member of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15B is a side cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 5 of the electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15C is a side cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of a configuration of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] The embodiments of FIGS. 14A to 14D can be combined with the embodiments(s) of FIGS. 5 to 12B and / or the embodiments(s) of FIGS. 13A to 13G. The embodiments of FIGS. 15A to 15C can be combined with the embodiments(s) of FIGS. 5 to 12B, the embodiments(s) of FIGS. 13A to 13G and / or the embodiments(s) of FIGS. 14A to 14D.

[0133] The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 14B and 15B may be referred to as the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 7A. The housing (301) including the hinge cover (330), the flexible circuit board (350), the hinge assembly (303) including the center bar (360), and the fixing member (370) of the embodiments of FIGS. 14A to 15C may be referred to as the housing (301) including the hinge cover (330), the flexible circuit board (350), the hinge assembly (303) including the center bar (360), and the fixing member (370) of the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 12B.

[0134] FIGS. 14b and 15b illustrate a state in which the electronic device (101) is fully unfolded, FIG. 14c illustrates an intermediate state in which the electronic device (101) is folded with a certain angle between the first housing (e.g., the first housing (311) of FIGS. 5 and 6) and the second housing (e.g., the second housing (312) of FIGS. 5 and 6), and FIGS. 14d and 15c illustrate a state in which the electronic device (101) is fully folded.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 14A to 14D , according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a first guide member (391) and a second guide member (392) disposed on both sides of the fixing member (370). The first guide member (391) and the second guide member (392) may be partially coupled to the first portion (351) and the second portion (352) of the flexible circuit board (350), respectively, thereby helping to support and / or fix the first portion (351) and the second portion (352) within the housing (301).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the first guide member (391) may be disposed between the first support (313) and the first portion (351), and the second guide member (392) may be disposed between the second support (314) and the second portion (352). The first guide member (391) and the second guide member (392) may be connected, fixed, or coupled to the first support (313) and the second support (314), respectively.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first guide member (391) and the second guide member (392) may be at least partially coupled to the first portion (351) and the second portion (352), respectively, of the flexible circuit board (350). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a first coupling member (393) and a second coupling member (394) for coupling the first guide member (391) and the second guide member (392) to the first portion (351) and the second portion (352), respectively. For example, the first coupling member (393) may be disposed between the first portion (351) and the first guide member (391), and the second coupling member (394) may be disposed between the second portion (352) and the second guide member (392). For example, the first bonding member (393) and the second bonding member (394) may be adhesive members (e.g., bond, double-sided tape) having adhesive properties on the surface. For example, the first guide member (391), the second guide member (392), the first bonding member (393), and / or the second bonding member (394) may include an elastically deformable material to absorb external impact.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 15A to 15C, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may further include a buffer member (395). According to one embodiment, the buffer member (395) may be disposed between the center bar (360) and the bending region (353) of the flexible circuit board (350). For example, the buffer member (395) may be configured to be elastically deformable. According to one embodiment, the buffer member (395) may be coupled to the center bar (360) and / or the bending region (353). Referring to FIG. 15A, the buffer member (395) may have a shape extending in the longitudinal direction (e.g., X-axis direction) of the center bar (360).

[0139] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may be provided. The electronic device may include a housing (201; 301) including a first housing (210; 311), a second housing (220; 312) and a hinge cover (230; 330), a flexible display (240; 340) disposed in the housing, a hinge assembly (280; 303) in which the first housing and the second housing are rotatably connected and a center bar (360) disposed facing the hinge cover, and a flexible circuit board (350) and a fixing member (370) disposed in the housing. The flexible circuit board may include a first portion (351) disposed in the first housing, a second portion (352) disposed in the second housing, and a bending region (353) disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The above-described fixing member may be positioned facing the center bar within the housing, with a portion of the bending region interposed therebetween. The center bar may include a guide groove (3611), and the bending region may include a first protrusion (3531) configured to be positioned in the guide groove.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the center bar and the fixing member may each include a coupling structure (3612, 3711) formed to interlock with each other.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the fixing member may include a second protrusion (3711) formed on at least one of the two ends, and the center bar may include a recess (3612) formed to engage the second protrusion.

[0142] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the fixing member can be disposed between the fixing member and the flexible circuit board.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the center bar further includes a seating area (361) formed so that a portion of the bending area is placed, and the guide groove of the center bar may include a plurality of guide grooves formed on both sides of the seating area.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the fixing member further comprises a fastening member (381) configured to fasten the fixing member to the center bar, the fastening member being capable of fastening to a portion of the center bar around the seating area.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the center bar includes a first fastening hole (3613) in which the fastening member is arranged, the fixing member includes a second fastening hole (3713) formed at a position corresponding to the first fastening hole, and the fastening member can be arranged from the first fastening hole through the second fastening hole.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the device may further include a first support (313) fixedly positioned within the first housing and a second support (314) fixedly positioned within the second housing.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the device further includes a first guide member (391) and a second guide member (392) disposed on both sides of the fixed member, wherein the first guide member is disposed between the first support and the flexible circuit board, and the second guide member can be disposed between the flexible circuit board and the second support.

[0148] In one embodiment, a portion of the first portion may be fixed to the first guide member and a portion of the second portion may be coupled to the second guide member.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the device may further include a buffer member (395) disposed between the center bar and the bending region and configured to be elastically deformable.

[0150] In one embodiment, the buffer member may be arranged to surround at least a portion of an edge of a surface of the center bar facing the bending region.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly further includes a first support member (321) connected to the first housing and a second support member (322) connected to the second housing, wherein at least a portion of the center bar can be disposed between the first support member and the second support member.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the flexible display includes a first display area disposed on the first housing and a second display area disposed on the second housing, and can be configured to vary between a folded state in which the first display area and the second display area are disposed facing each other and an unfolded state in which the first display area and the second display area are disposed facing the same direction.

[0153] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101) may be provided. The electronic device may include a housing (201; 301) including a first housing (210; 311), a second housing (220; 312) and a hinge cover (230; 330), a flexible display (240; 340) disposed in the housing, a hinge assembly (280; 303) in which the first housing and the second housing are rotatably connected and a center bar (360) disposed facing the hinge cover, and a flexible circuit board (350) and a fixing member (370) disposed in the housing. The flexible circuit board may include a first portion (351) disposed in the first housing, a second portion (352) disposed in the second housing, and a bending region (353) disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The above-mentioned fixing member may be positioned facing the center bar within the housing with a portion of the bending area therebetween. The center bar and the fixing member may each include a coupling structure (3612, 3711) formed to interlock with each other.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the center bar may include a guide groove (3611), and the bending region may include a first protrusion (3531) configured to be positioned in the guide groove.

[0155] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the fixing member may be disposed between the fixing member and the flexible circuit board. The center bar may further include a seating area (361) formed such that a portion of the bending area is disposed therein, and the guide groove of the center bar may include a plurality of guide grooves formed on both sides of the seating area.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the fixing member may include a second protrusion (3711) formed on at least one of the two ends, and the center bar may include a recess (3612) formed to engage the second protrusion.

[0157] According to one embodiment, it may include a first support (313) fixedly positioned within the first housing and a second support (314) fixedly positioned within the second housing. It may further include a first guide member (391) and a second guide member (392) disposed on both sides of the fixing member, wherein the first guide member may be disposed between the first support and the flexible circuit board, and the second guide member may be disposed between the flexible circuit board and the second support.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the apparatus further includes a buffer member (395) disposed between the center bar and the bending region and configured to be elastically deformable, wherein the buffer member may be disposed to surround at least a portion of an edge of a surface of the center bar facing the bending region.

[0159] While this disclosure has been described by way of example and example, it should be understood that the specific embodiment 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.

[0160] Electronic devices according to embodiments of 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.

[0161] It should be understood that the embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to a specific embodiment, but include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiment. 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 item, 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, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0162] The term "module" used in one embodiment 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).

[0163] An embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0165] According to one embodiment, 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 one embodiment, 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 this 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 one embodiment, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), A housing (201; 301) comprising a first housing (210; 311), a second housing (220; 312) and a hinge cover (230; 330); A flexible display (240; 340) arranged in the above housing; A hinge assembly (280; 303) including a center bar (360) rotatably connected to the first housing and the second housing and facing the hinge cover; A flexible circuit board (350) disposed within the housing, comprising a first part (351) disposed within the first housing, a second part (352) disposed within the second housing, and a bending region (353) disposed between the first part and the second part; and Including a fixing member (370) positioned facing the center bar with a part of the bending area interposed therebetween within the housing, An electronic device, wherein the center bar includes a guide groove (3611), and the bending region includes a first protrusion (3531) configured to be positioned in the guide groove.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device, wherein the center bar and the fixing member each include a coupling structure (3612, 3711) formed to be interlocked with each other.

3. In paragraph 2, An electronic device wherein the fixing member includes a second protrusion (3711) formed on at least one of the two ends, and the center bar includes a recess (3612) formed to engage the second protrusion.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, An electronic device, wherein at least a portion of the fixing member is disposed between the fixing member and the flexible circuit board.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, An electronic device wherein the center bar further includes a seating area (361) formed so that a portion of the bending area is placed, and the guide groove of the center bar includes a plurality of guide grooves formed on both sides of the seating area.

6. In paragraph 5, An electronic device further comprising a fastening member (381) configured to fasten the fixed member to the center bar, wherein the fastening member is fastened to a portion of the center bar around the seating area.

7. In paragraph 6, An electronic device wherein the center bar includes a first fastening hole (3613) in which the fastening member is arranged, the fixing member includes a second fastening hole (3713) formed at a position corresponding to the first fastening hole, and the fastening member is arranged to pass through the second fastening hole from the first fastening hole.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, An electronic device further comprising a first support (313) fixedly positioned within the first housing and a second support (314) fixedly positioned within the second housing.

9. In paragraph 8, An electronic device further comprising a first guide member (391) and a second guide member (392) arranged on both sides of the fixed member, wherein the first guide member is arranged between the first support and the flexible circuit board, and the second guide member is arranged between the flexible circuit board and the second support.

10. In paragraph 9, An electronic device, wherein a part of the first part is fixed to the first guide member and a part of the second part is coupled to the second guide member.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, An electronic device further comprising a buffer member (395) disposed between the center bar and the bending region and configured to be elastically deformable.

12. In paragraph 11, An electronic device wherein the buffer member is arranged to surround at least a portion of an edge of a surface of the center bar facing the bending region.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, An electronic device wherein the hinge assembly further includes a first support member (321) connected to the first housing and a second support member (322) connected to the second housing, and at least a portion of the center bar is disposed between the first support member and the second support member.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, An electronic device wherein the flexible display comprises a first display area disposed on the first housing and a second display area disposed on the second housing, and is configured to be variable between a folded state in which the first display area and the second display area are disposed facing each other and an unfolded state in which the first display area and the second display area are disposed facing the same direction.

Images