Electronic device comprising structure for protecting flexible display

Abstract

This multi-foldable electronic device may comprise: a foldable housing including a first housing part, a second housing part, a third housing part, a first hinge housing part having a first width, and a second hinge housing part having a second width; a first hinge assembly for rotatably coupling the first housing part and the second housing part; a second hinge assembly for rotatably coupling the second housing part and the third housing part; a flexible display configured to be partially bent by the first hinge assembly and the second hinge assembly; and a protective member disposed adjacent to a longitudinal end portion of the second hinge housing part. The protective member may be configured to, as the third housing part is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part, move in a first direction away from the second hinge housing part and a second direction opposite to the first direction, respectively, with respect to the second hinge housing part.

Description

An electronic device comprising a structure for protecting a flexible display

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a structure for protecting a flexible display.

[0002] As user demands diversify, electronic devices may include a deformable display structure for displaying content. For example, an electronic device may include a foldable, flexible display. To reduce damage to the deformable display due to external impact, the electronic device may require a structure to protect the display.

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

[0004] An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part, and a third housing part. The electronic device may include a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part, a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing part and the third housing part, a first hinge housing surrounding a portion of the first hinge structure, and a second hinge housing surrounding a portion of the second hinge structure and wider than the first hinge housing. The electronic device may include a foldable display supported by the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part, including a bendable display portion corresponding to the second hinge structure, and configured to be bent in a single folded state or a multi-folded state of the electronic device. The electronic device may include a protective member accommodated within a longitudinal end portion of the second hinge housing and adjacent to the bendable display portion of the foldable display. The protective member may be configured to move from a first position to a second position relative to the second hinge housing when the third housing part rotates relative to the second housing part from the single folded state to the folded state of the electronic device.

[0005] A multi-foldable electronic device is disclosed. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing including a first housing part, a second housing part, a third housing part, a first hinge housing part at least partially disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part and having a first width, and a second hinge housing part at least partially disposed between the second housing part and the third housing part and having a second width greater than the first width. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly that is at least partially housed within the first hinge housing part and rotatably couples the first housing part and the second housing part, a second hinge assembly that is at least partially housed within the second hinge housing part and rotatably couples the second housing part and the third housing part, a flexible display that is coupled to the foldable housing and configured to be partially bent by the first hinge assembly and the second hinge assembly, and a protective member that is disposed adjacent to a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part. The protective member may be configured to move in a first direction away from the second hinge housing part and in a second direction opposite to the first direction as the third housing part is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part.

[0006] A multi-foldable electronic device is disclosed. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing including a first housing part, a second housing part, a third housing part, a first hinge housing part at least partially disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part and having a first width, and a second hinge housing part at least partially disposed between the second housing part and the third housing part and having a second width greater than the first width. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly at least partially accommodated within the first hinge housing part and rotatably coupling the first housing part and the second housing part, and a second hinge assembly at least partially accommodated within the second hinge housing part and rotatably coupling the second housing part and the third housing part. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a flexible display including a first display portion coupled to the first housing part, a second display portion coupled to the second housing part, a third display portion coupled to the third housing part, a fourth display portion between the first display portion and the second display portion configured to be bent by the first hinge assembly, and a fifth display portion between the second display portion and the third display portion configured to be bent by the second hinge assembly. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a protective member movably coupled to one end of the second hinge housing part to cover at least a portion of a side surface of the fifth display portion.The protective member may be configured to move between a first position relative to the second hinged housing part and a second position raised relative to the second hinged housing part from the first position as the third housing part is folded or unfolded relative to the second housing part.

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

[0008] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0009] Figure 2b illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0010] FIG. 3A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state with the flexible display removed.

[0011] FIG. 3b is a rear view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state with the back cover and display removed.

[0012] FIG. 4A illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0013] FIG. 4b is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device taken along line A-A' of FIG. 4a.

[0014] Figure 4c illustrates an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0015] Figure 5a is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary electronic device.

[0016] Figures 5b, 5c, and 5d illustrate movement of the protective member according to state changes of an exemplary electronic device.

[0017] FIG. 6A is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state.

[0018] FIG. 6b is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device taken along line B-B' of FIG. 6a.

[0019] FIG. 6c illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device within a first state.

[0020] FIG. 6d illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0021] FIG. 7A illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device within a first state.

[0022] FIG. 7b illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device within a second state.

[0023] Figure 8a illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device.

[0024] FIG. 8b is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic device taken along line C-C' of FIG. 8a.

[0025] Figure 8c illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device.

[0026] Figures 9a, 9b, and 9c illustrate movement of a protective member according to a state change of an exemplary electronic device.

[0027] Figures 9d, 9e, and 9f illustrate movement of the protective member according to state changes of an exemplary electronic device.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0030] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0031] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0032] 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).

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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).

[0035] 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.

[0036] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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).

[0041] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0042] 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.

[0043] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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 at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0048] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0049] 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)).

[0050] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0051] Figure 2a illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Figure 2b illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200), a flexible display (240), a first hinge assembly (250), and a second hinge assembly (260). The housing (200) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). The housing (200) may be referred to as a foldable housing in that it includes multiple housing parts (210, 220, 230) and may be folded multiple times. The electronic device (101) may be referred to as a multi-foldable electronic device in that it includes a housing (200) and / or a flexible display (240) that may be folded multiple times. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0053] The first housing part (210) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (220) by the first hinge assembly (250). The second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) can be rotated with respect to the first hinge assembly (250). While the first housing part (210) is rotated with respect to the first hinge assembly (250), the second housing part (220) can be rotated with respect to the first hinge assembly (250). For example, when the second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) are rotated with respect to the first hinge assembly (250), the angular displacement of the second housing part (220) can be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the first housing part (210).

[0054] The third housing part (230) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (220) by the second hinge assembly (260). The second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) can be rotated with respect to the second hinge assembly (260). While the second housing part (220) is rotated with respect to the second hinge assembly (260), the third housing part (230) can be rotated with respect to the second hinge assembly (260). For example, when the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) are rotated with respect to the second hinge assembly (260), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (220) can be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the third housing part (230).

[0055] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) can provide (or enable) a first state (101a) of the electronic device (101) (or a first state (101a) of the housing (200)). The first state (101a) of the electronic device (101) (or the first state (101a) of the housing (200)) can be described as an unfolded state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)). Within the first state (101a), the front surface of the first housing part (210), the front surface of the second housing part (220), and the front surface of the third housing part (230) can define the front surface of the electronic device (101). Within the first state (101a), the front of the first housing part (210), the front of the second housing part (220), and the front of the third housing part (230) can face the same direction. Within the first state (101a), the electronic device (101) can provide a large display area of ​​the flexible display (240) to the user.

[0056] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) can provide a second state (101b) of the electronic device (101) (or a second state (101b) of the housing (200)). The second state (101b) of the electronic device (101) (or the second state (101b) of the housing (200)) can be described as a multi-folded state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)). Within the second state (101b), the front surface of the first housing part (210) and the front surface of the second housing part (220) can face in opposite directions, and the front surface of the second housing part (220) and the front surface of the third housing part (230) can face in opposite directions. Within the second state (101b), the front surface of the first housing part (210) and the front surface of the third housing part (230) may face the same direction. For example, within the second state (101b), the front surface of the second housing part (220) may face the front surface of the first housing part (210), and the front surface of the third housing part (230) may face the rear surface of the first housing part (210). Within the second state (101b), the electronic device (101) may be folded to enhance portability.

[0057] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) can provide a third state of the electronic device (101). The third state of the electronic device (101) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (101) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folded state or a half folded state). For example, within the third state, the front surface of the second housing part (220) and the front surface of the third housing part (230) may face the same direction, and the front surface of the first housing part (210) and the front surface of the second housing part (220) may face opposite directions. For example, within the third state, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be folded, and the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) may be unfolded.

[0058] A flexible display (240) can at least partially define the appearance of an electronic device (101). The flexible display (240) can be partially disposed within a housing (200). The flexible display (240) can define a front surface of the electronic device (101). The flexible display (240) can include a first display portion (241), a second display portion (242), a third display portion (243), a fourth display portion (244), and a fifth display portion (245). The first display portion (241) of the flexible display (240) can be disposed on a front surface of the first housing part (210). The second display portion (242) of the flexible display (240) can be disposed on a front surface of the second housing part (220). The third display portion (243) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed on the front of the third housing part (230). The fourth display portion (244) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed between the first display portion (241) and the third display portion (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the fourth display portion (244) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed on the first hinge assembly (250) connecting the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The fifth display portion (245) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed between the second display portion (242) and the third display portion (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the fifth display part (245) of the flexible display (240) may be placed on the second hinge assembly (260) connecting the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230).

[0059] In the first state (101a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (240) can be seen from the front of the housing (200). For example, the first display portion (241), the second display portion (242), the third display portion (243), the fourth display portion (244), and the fifth display portion (245) of the flexible display (240) can be visually exposed. The electronic device (101) can provide a large display area to the user that includes the first display portion (241), the second display portion (242), the third display portion (243), the fourth display portion (244), and the fifth display portion (245). In the second state (101b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) can be invisible. For example, the first display portion (241), the second display portion (242), the third display portion (243), the fourth display portion (244), and the fifth display portion (245) of the flexible display (240) may not be visually exposed. In the third state, the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may be partially visible from the front of the third housing part (230). For example, the third display portion (243) may be visually exposed, and the first display portion (241) and the second display portion (242) may not be visually exposed.

[0060] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen in a first state (101a) of the electronic device (101), all parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245) of the flexible display (240) can be activated. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen in a second state (101b), all parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245) of the flexible display (240) can be deactivated. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen in a third state of the electronic device (101), the third display part (243) can be activated, and other parts (241, 242, 244, 245) of the flexible display (240) can be deactivated.

[0061] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) may be arranged so that the first display portion (241) of the flexible display (240), the second display portion (242) of the flexible display (240), and the third display portion (243) of the flexible display (240) may face substantially the same direction. In the first state (101a), the fourth display portion (244) and the fifth display portion (245) may be arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first display portion (241), the second display portion (242), and the third display portion (243).

[0062] The first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (260) can provide a second state (101b) of the electronic device (101). Within the second state (101b), the second display portion (242) of the flexible display (240) can face the first display portion (241) of the flexible display (240), and the third display portion (243) of the flexible display (240) can face the back of the first housing part (210). Within the second state (101b), the fourth display portion (244) of the flexible display (240) can be folded such that the first display portion (241) of the flexible display (240) and the second display portion (242) of the flexible display (240) face different directions. Within the second state (101b), the fifth display portion (245) of the flexible display (240) can be folded so that the second display portion (242) of the flexible display (240) and the third display portion (243) of the flexible display (240) face different directions.

[0063] Within the second state (101b), the first housing part (210) may be disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). Within the second state (101b), the fifth display portion (245) of the flexible display (240) disposed on the second hinge assembly (260) may be partially directed toward the side of the first housing part (210). For example, in order to provide visual information to the user within the second state (101b), a sub-display may be additionally disposed on the rear of the second housing part (220). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0064] FIG. 3A is a top plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state with the flexible display removed. FIG. 3B is a rear view of the exemplary electronic device in a first state with the back cover and display removed.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (250) and a second hinge assembly (260). A first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (250) may be narrower than a second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (260). A difference between the first width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (250) and the second width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (260) may be equal to or greater than a thickness of the first housing part (210). For example, the second hinge assembly (260) may have a second width (w2) that is wider than the first width (w1) such that the first housing part (210) is positioned between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) according to the second state (101b). The first hinge assembly (250) may be referred to as a narrow hinge structure in terms of having a narrower width than the second hinge assembly (260). The second hinge assembly (260) may be referred to as a wide hinge structure in terms of having a wider width than the first hinge assembly (250).

[0066] A first hinge assembly (250) may include a first set of gears (251), a first hinge plate (252), and a second hinge plate (253). The first hinge plate (252) may be coupled to a first support portion (211) of a first housing part (210). The second hinge plate (253) may be coupled to a second support portion (221) of a second housing part (220). The gears included in the first set of gears (251) may be configured to rotate the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253). For example, the gears included in the first set of gears (251) can rotate the second hinge plate (253) (or the second housing part (220)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (210)). After the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (210)) is rotated, the gears included in the first set of gears (251) can rotate in accordance with the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) (or the first housing part (210)). The second hinge plate (253) (or the second housing part (220)) can rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) in accordance with the rotation of the gears included in the first set of gears (251).

[0067] The second hinge assembly (260) may include a second set of gears (261), a third hinge plate (262), a fourth hinge plate (263), and a support plate (264). The third hinge plate (262) may be coupled to a second support portion (221) of the second housing part (220). The fourth hinge plate (263) may be coupled to a third support portion (231) of the third housing part (230). The gears included in the second set of gears (261) may be configured to rotate the third hinge plate (262) and the fourth hinge plate (263). For example, the gears included in the second set of gears (261) can rotate the fourth hinge plate (263) (or the third housing part (230)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (220)). After the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (220)) is rotated, the gears included in the second set of gears (261) can rotate in accordance with the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) (or the second housing part (220)). The fourth hinge plate (263) (or the third housing part (230)) can rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (262) in accordance with the rotation of the gears included in the second set of gears (261).

[0068] An electronic device (101) may include a first printed circuit board (271), a second printed circuit board (272), and a third printed circuit board (273). Various hardware components may be mounted on each of the printed circuit boards (271, 272, 273).

[0069] A first printed circuit board (271) may be placed on a first support portion (211) of a first housing part (210). Hardware components within the first housing part (210) may be placed on the first printed circuit board (271). A second printed circuit board (272) may be placed on a second support portion (221) of a second housing part (220). Hardware components within the second housing part (220) may be placed on the second printed circuit board (272). A third printed circuit board (273) may be placed on a third support portion (231) of a third housing part (230). Hardware components within the third housing part (230) (e.g., a rear camera (275)) may be placed on the third printed circuit board (273).

[0070] The hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (271) can support or operate independently of the hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (272) and / or the hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (273).

[0071] The hardware components arranged on the second printed circuit board (272) may support or operate independently of the hardware components arranged on the first printed circuit board (271) or the third printed circuit board (273). The hardware components arranged on the second printed circuit board (272) may include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0072] Hardware components arranged on the third printed circuit board (273) may include at least one processor including a processing circuit, a memory including one or more storage media, a communication circuit, and a rear camera (275). The rear camera (275) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the third housing part (230).

[0073] The electronic device (101) may further include batteries. Each of the batteries may be attached to support portions (211, 221, 231) included in the housing parts (210, 220, 230). The support portions (211, 221, 231) may support rechargeable batteries.

[0074] The housing (200) may include protective covers (215, 225, 235). For example, the protective covers (215, 225, 235) may form an edge of the electronic device (101) within the first state (101a). For example, the first housing part (210) may include a first protective cover (215) that at least partially surrounds the first support portion (211). The second housing part (220) may include a second protective cover (225) that at least partially surrounds the second support portion (221). The third housing part (230) may include a third protective cover (235) that at least partially surrounds the third support portion (231). The second protective cover (225) may be positioned between the first protective cover (215) and the third protective cover (235) within the first state (101a) of the electronic device (101). The protective covers (215, 225, 235) may be referred to as a peripheral portion and / or deco of the housing (200) in that they are positioned along the edge of the electronic device (101) to protect the edge of the flexible display (240), but the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0075] Although the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) are shown as rotating in opposite directions with respect to the second housing part (220), this is not limited thereto. For example, during the change from the first state (101a) to the second state (101b), the first housing part (210) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (220). As the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) within the second state may be visually exposed. However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and for example, while changing from the first state (101a) to the second state (101b), the first housing part (210) may rotate clockwise with respect to the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (220).

[0076] Figure 4a illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Figure 4b is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary electronic device taken along line A-A' of Figure 4a. Figure 4c illustrates an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200), a flexible display (240), a first hinge assembly (250), a second hinge assembly (260), and a protective member (410). The housing (200) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), a third housing part (230), a first hinge housing part (255), and a second hinge housing part (265). The first hinge assembly (250) may rotatably connect the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The second hinge assembly (260) may rotatably connect the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The width of the second hinge assembly (260) (e.g., width (w2) of FIG. 3a) may be wider than the width of the first hinge assembly (250) (e.g., width (w1) of FIG. 3a).

[0078] The flexible display (240) may be referred to as a display stack or display structure in which a plurality of layers are combined. For example, the flexible display (240) may include a cover glass, which is an upper-most layer exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The cover glass may be at least partially deformable or may include one or more curved portions. For example, the flexible display (240) may include a polarizer attached under the cover glass, one or more adhesive layers, a display panel, and one or more support layers. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the flexible display (240) may include a stack structure of a plurality of layers including at least partially deformable regions.

[0079] The flexible display (240) may include a first display portion (e.g., the first display portion (241) of FIG. 2A) supported by a first housing part (210), a second display portion (242) supported by a second housing part (220), a third display portion (243) supported by a third housing part (230), a fourth display portion (244) that is at least partially deformable by a first hinge assembly (250) and extends from the first display portion (241) to the second display portion (242), and a fifth display portion (245) that is at least partially deformable by a second hinge assembly (260) and extends from the second display portion (242) to the third display portion (243). The display portions (241, 242, 243) may be referred to as flat portions of the flexible display (240). The display portions (244, 245) may be referred to as foldable portions of the flexible display (240). When an element is referred to as a "flat portion" of the flexible display (240) in the present disclosure, it may mean that the element referred to as the flat portion is a portion of the flexible display (240) that substantially maintains its shape (e.g., a flat shape) or is not deformed while the electronic device (101) performs a folding operation to change its state. Furthermore, when an element is referred to as a "foldable portion" of the flexible display (240) in the present disclosure, it may mean that the element referred to as the foldable portion is a portion of the flexible display (240) that is bent or at least partially deformed while the electronic device (101) performs a folding operation to change its state. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B together, a first display portion (241) may be coupled to a first housing part (210). A second display portion (242) may be coupled to a second housing part (220). A third display portion (243) may be coupled to a third housing part (230). For example, the first display portion (241) may be at least partially surrounded by the first housing part (210). One side of the first display portion (241) may be connected to a fourth display portion (244). The second display portion (242) may be at least partially surrounded by the second housing part (220). One side of the second display portion (242) may be connected to the fourth display portion (244), and the other side of the second display portion (242), opposite to the one side, may be connected to the fifth display portion (245). The third display portion (243) may be at least partially surrounded by the third housing part (230). One side of the third display portion (243) may be connected to the fifth display portion (245).

[0080] For example, at least a portion of the first hinge assembly (250) (e.g., the first hinge plate (252) of FIG. 3A) may be coupled to the first housing part (210). The remaining portion of the first hinge assembly (250) (e.g., the second hinge plate (253) of FIG. 3A) may be coupled to the second housing part (220). The fourth display portion (244) of the flexible display (240) may extend from one side of the first display portion (241) across the first hinge assembly (250) to one side of the second display portion (242). At least a portion of the second hinge assembly (260) (e.g., the third hinge plate (262) of FIG. 3A) may be coupled to the second housing part (220). The remaining portion of the second hinge assembly (260) (e.g., the fourth hinge plate (263) of FIG. 3A) may be coupled to the third housing part (230). The fifth display portion (245) of the flexible display (240) may extend upward across the second hinge assembly (260) from the opposite side of the second display portion (242) to the third display portion (243).

[0081] For example, the fourth display portion (244) may be at least partially positioned over the first hinge assembly (250). The fifth display portion (245) may be at least partially positioned over the second hinge assembly (260). For example, the first hinge assembly (250) may be partially covered by the fourth display portion (244). The second hinge assembly (260) may be partially covered by the fifth display portion (245). For example, since the width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (250) is smaller than the width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (260), the width of the fourth display portion (244) positioned over the first hinge assembly (250) may be smaller than the width of the fifth display portion (245) positioned over the second hinge assembly (260). For example, the length of the fourth display portion (244) extending from the first display portion (241) to one side of the second display portion (242) may be smaller than the length of the fifth display portion (245) extending from the other side of the second display portion opposite to the one side to the third display portion (243). For example, the size of the area of ​​the fourth display portion (244) visible from the outside of the electronic device (101) in a first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A), which may be referred to as an unfolded state of the housing (200), may be smaller than the size of the area of ​​the fifth display portion (245) visible from the outside of the electronic device (101) in the unfolded state of the housing (200). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited to the examples described above.

[0082] For example, the first display portion (241) can be rotated relative to the second display portion (242) along the first housing part (210) which is rotated relative to the second housing part (220) by the first hinge assembly (250). The fourth display portion (244) which extends from the first display portion (241) to the second display portion (242) can be at least partially deformed (or bent or unfolded) through the first display portion (241) which is rotated relative to the second display portion (242) by the first hinge assembly (250). For example, the third display portion (243) can be rotated relative to the second display portion (242) along the third housing part (230) which is rotated relative to the second housing part (220) by the second hinge assembly (260). The fifth display portion (245) extending from the second display portion (242) to the third display portion (243) can be at least partially deformed (or bent or unfolded) through the third display portion (243) being rotated relative to the second display portion (242) by the second hinge assembly (260). However, it should be appreciated that the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited to the examples described above, and that the rotation of one element relative to another element is for convenience of describing the rotation of the one element relative to the other element. For example, “the first display portion (241) that is rotated relative to the second display portion (242)” may mean “the second display portion (242) that is rotated relative to the first display portion (241).” For example, “a third display portion (243) that is rotated with respect to a second display portion (242)” may mean “a second display portion (242) that is rotated with respect to a third display portion (243).”However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited by the above-described embodiments.

[0083] The first hinge housing part (255) can accommodate the first hinge assembly (250) by being at least partially disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The second hinge housing part (265) can accommodate the second hinge assembly (260) by being at least partially disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The width of the second hinge housing part can be greater than the width of the first hinge housing part (255).

[0084] For example, the first hinge housing part (255) can surround the first hinge assembly (250). The second hinge housing part (265) can surround the second hinge assembly (260). For example, the first hinge housing part (255) can be covered by the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) in a state in which the first housing part (210) is unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220) (e.g., the first state (101a)). The first hinge housing part (255) can be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing (200) in a state in which the first housing part (210) is folded with respect to the second housing part (220) (e.g., the second state (101b)). For example, the second hinge housing part (265) may be covered by the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) in a state in which the third housing part (230) is unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220) (e.g., the first state (101a)). The second hinge housing part (265) may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing (200) in a state in which the third housing part (230) is folded with respect to the second housing part (220) (e.g., the second state (101b)).

[0085] For example, the width (w1) of the first hinge assembly (250) may correspond to the width of the first hinge housing part (255) surrounding the first hinge assembly (250). The width (w2) of the second hinge assembly (260) may correspond to the width of the second hinge housing part (265). The width of the second hinge housing part (265) may be greater than the width of the first hinge housing part. However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0086] The housing (200) may include protective covers (215, 225, 235) for protecting the edges of the flexible display (240). For example, the first housing part (210) may include a first protective cover (215) arranged along the edge of the first display portion (241) of the flexible display (240). The second housing part (220) may include a second protective cover (225) arranged along the edge of the second display portion (242) of the flexible display (240). The third housing part (230) may include a third protective cover (235) arranged along the edge of the third display portion (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the first protective cover (215) may at least partially cover the edge of the first display portion (241). The second protective cover (225) may at least partially cover the edge of the second display portion (242). The third protective cover (235) may at least partially cover the edge of the third display portion (243). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the housing (200) may include a plurality of protective covers for protecting the edges of each of the display portions (241, 242, 243) of the flexible display (240).

[0087] The housing (200) may require a structure in which the protective covers (215, 225, 235) are omitted at positions corresponding to each of the display portions (244, 245) in order to provide deformation of the display portions (244, 245) as the state of the housing (200) (or the electronic device (101)) changes. Since the protective covers (215, 225, 235) are not arranged at positions corresponding to each of the display portions (244, 245), the edge of the fourth display portion (244) and the edge of the fifth display portion (245) may be exposed to external impact, or foreign substances may enter from the outside of the electronic device (101) through the gap between the fourth display portion (244) and the housing parts (210, 220) or the gap between the fifth display portion (245) and the housing parts (220, 230). A structure for protecting the edges of the display parts (244, 245) and reducing the inflow of foreign substances through the gaps between the display parts (244, 245) and the housing parts (210, 220, 230) is described below.

[0088] The protective member (410) may be positioned adjacent to a longitudinal end (e.g., +y direction or -y direction) of the second hinge housing part (265). In the present disclosure, when referring to the "longitudinal direction" of an element, it may be a direction relative to the greatest length of a profile of the element, or a direction corresponding to a major axis of the element. In the present disclosure, when referring to the "width direction" of an element, it may be a direction relative to the smallest length of a profile of the element, or a direction corresponding to a minor axis of the element. However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0089] For example, the protective member (410) may be mounted on the second hinge housing part (265). The protective member (410) may be disposed on one end of the second hinge housing part (265) so as to at least partially face the side surface (245c) of the fifth display portion (245). For example, the protective member (410) may be disposed on the second hinge housing part (265) so as to at least partially be disposed on the front surface (245a) of the fifth display portion (245). For example, the protective member (410) may be disposed adjacent to the longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part (265) so as to be disposed along the edge of the fifth display portion (245). The protective member (410) may be disposed at least partially between the second protective cover (225) and the third protective cover (235) when viewed from above (e.g., in the z-axis direction) of the electronic device (101). For example, a portion of the protective member (410) exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101) may be disposed between the second protective cover (225) and the third protective cover (235). The protective member (410) may be disposed along the edge of the fifth display portion (245), thereby reducing damage to the edge of the fifth display portion (245) from external impact instead of the protective covers (225, 235).

[0090] For example, the second hinge housing part (265) may include a mounting groove (450) formed at a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part (265). The protective member (410) may be partially received within the mounting groove (450). For example, the protective member (410) may be coupled to the mounting groove (450). The protective member (410) may be fixed onto the second hinge housing part (265) by being at least partially disposed within the mounting groove (450). For example, the protective member (410) may be at least partially disposed between an outer wall (451) and an inner wall (452) of the mounting groove (450). The protective member (410) may be supported by the outer wall (451) and the inner wall (452). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0091] The protective member (410) may include a protrusion (415) for guiding deformation of the fifth display portion (245) so that the fifth display portion (245) is deformed into a designated shape as the state of the electronic device (101) (or the housing (200)) changes. For example, the protective member (410) may be secured to a second hinge housing part (265) disposed below the fifth display portion (245). At least a portion of the protective member (410) may be disposed along an edge of the fifth display portion (245) so as to be visible from the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, the protective member (410) may face a side surface of the fifth display portion (245). The protective member (410) may be arranged substantially parallel to the side surface (245c) of the fifth display portion (245) within the unfolded state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A). For example, the protrusion (415) of the protective member (410) may be arranged on the fifth display portion (245). The protrusion (415) may be arranged, for example, on a cover member (420) arranged on the fifth display portion (245).

[0092] For example, the fifth display portion (245) may be at least partially bent while the electronic device (101) changes from the first state (101a) to the second state (101b). The protrusion (415) of the protective member (410) may guide the cover member (420) and / or the fifth display portion (245) under the protrusion (415) to change into a specified shape (e.g., from a plane shape to a U shape). For example, the protrusion (415) of the protective member (410) can guide deformation of the cover member (420) and the fifth display portion (245) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes by pressing the cover member (420) and the fifth display portion (245) under the protrusion (415) downward (e.g., in the -z direction). For example, the protrusion (415) of the protective member (410) can guide deformation of the fifth display portion (245) and / or the cover member (420) by reducing irregular shape changes (e.g., protrusion deformation) of the cover member (420) due to deformation of the fifth display portion (245) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. The electronic device (101) includes a protective member (410) disposed along the edge of the fifth display portion (245) and including a protrusion (415), thereby reducing damage to the fifth display portion (245) due to external impact and guiding deformation of the fifth display portion (245) and the cover member (420). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0093] The electronic device (101) may include a cover member (420) disposed on the second display portion (242), the third display portion (243), and the fifth display portion (245) of the flexible display (240). For example, the cover member (420) may be disposed on the second display portion (242), the third display portion (243), and the fifth display portion (245) of the flexible display (240) along the edge of the flexible display (240). For example, the cover member (420) may be disposed on a portion of the front surface (245a) and a portion of the side surface (245c) of the fifth display portion (245). For example, the cover member (420) may cover an edge of the fifth display portion (245), a portion of an edge of the second display portion (242), and a portion of an edge of the third display portion (243). For example, a portion of the cover member (420) may be visible from the outside of the electronic device (101) by being placed on the fifth display portion (245). Another portion of the cover member (420) may be covered by the protective covers (225, 235) of the housing (200).

[0094] For example, the cover member (420) may include a restorable elastic material (e.g., rubber). The cover member (420) may be deformed along the fifth display portion (245) that is at least partially deformed by the third display portion (243) that is rotated relative to the second display portion (242). For example, while the electronic device (101) changes from the first state (101a) to the second state (101b), the cover member (420) may be at least partially bent or deformed along the fifth display portion (245) that is bent. While the electronic device (101) changes from the second state (101b) to the first state (101a), the cover member (420) may be at least partially unfolded or deformed along the fifth display portion (245) that is unfolded. The cover member (420) can be restored to a shape substantially identical to that of the cover member (420) in the first state (101a) before the electronic device (101) changes from the second state (101b) to the first state (101a). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) can reduce foreign substances from entering from the outside through the gap between the fifth display part (245) and the housing (200) by including the cover member (420) disposed on the fifth display part (245), the second display part (242), and the third display part (243) along the edge of the flexible display (240).

[0095] Referring to FIG. 4c, in the second state (101b) of the electronic device (101), the first housing part (210) can be positioned between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). By being positioned between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230), the first housing part (210) can face the fifth display part (245) that is at least partially bent in the second state (101b).

[0096] For example, when the electronic device (101) is dropped in the second state (101b), the bent fifth display portion (245) may be broken by the first housing part (210) facing the fifth display portion (245). For example, when the electronic device (101) is dropped in the second state (101b), the hinge assemblies (250, 260) (or the hinge housing parts (255, 265)) may move due to an external impact. For example, when the electronic device (101) is dropped, the first housing part (210) may move toward the cover member (420) and / or the fifth display portion (245) due to the movement of the first hinge assembly (250) due to an impact applied to the electronic device (101). Due to the movement of the second hinge assembly (260) caused by the impact, the third housing part (230) may move in the opposite direction to the first housing part (210). As the housing parts (210, 230) move, the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) may come into contact with the fifth display part (245), thereby causing damage to the fifth display part (245). The electronic device (101) may require a movable structure of the protective member (410) to reduce damage to the fifth display part (245) caused by the movement of the housing parts (210, 220, 230) caused by the external impact. The movable structure of the protective member (410) is described through an exemplary illustration in FIG. 5A and below.

[0097] Figure 5a is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary electronic device. Figures 5b, 5c, and 5d illustrate movement of a protective member according to changes in the state of the exemplary electronic device.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200) including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), a third housing part (230), a first hinge housing part (255) that is at least partially disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) and has a first width (w1), and a second hinge housing part (265) that is at least partially disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a second width (w2) that is greater than the first width (w1). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (250) that is at least partially housed within the first hinge housing part (255) and rotatably couples the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (260) that is at least partially housed within the second hinge housing part (265) and rotatably couples the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) may include a protective member (410) that is positioned adjacent to a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part (265). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include structures and / or configurations (e.g., protective covers (215, 225, 235), display parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245), cover member (420), protrusion (415) of protective member (410), mounting groove (450), outer wall (451), inner wall (452)) described in FIGS. 4A to 4C. Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of structures and / or configurations having the same reference numerals as those described in FIGS. 4A to 4C may be omitted.

[0099] The protective member (410) may be configured to move, relative to the second hinge housing part (265), in a first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) or in a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501), as the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded relative to the second housing part (220). For example, the protective member (410) may be movable between a first position relative to the second hinge housing part (265) and a second position raised from the first position relative to the second hinge housing part (265) as the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded relative to the second housing part (220). For example, referring to FIG. 5b, in a state (500a) in which the third housing part (230) is fully unfolded relative to the second housing part (220), the protective member (410) may be positioned at a first position relative to the second hinge housing part (265). Referring to FIG. 5d, in a state (500c) in which the third housing part (230) is fully folded relative to the second housing part (220), the protective member (410) may be positioned at a second position that is higher than the first position in the state (500a) relative to the second hinge housing part (265). However, the embodiments supported within the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0100] For example, referring sequentially to FIGS. 5b, 5c, and 5d, the electronic device (101) can be moved in a first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) while the third housing part (230) changes from a state (500a) in which the third housing part (230) is unfolded relative to the second housing part (220), to a state (500b), and to a state (500c) in which the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the protective member (410) can be raised from the second hinge housing part (265). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the length of the protective member (410) protruding from the front surface (e.g., the front surface (245a) of FIG. 4B) of the fifth display portion (245) may increase. For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the distance between the protective surface (410a) of the protective member (410) configured to face the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) and the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) may change from a first distance (d1) to a second distance (d2) that is relatively smaller than the first distance (d1). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the seating portion (411) of the protective member (410) accommodated within the seating groove (e.g., the seating groove (450) of FIG. 4b) of the second hinge housing part (265) within the state (500a) may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the housing (200).For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220) with the side (210c) of the first housing part (210) facing the protective member (410), the protective member (410) may move toward the first housing part (210) (or the side (210c)) to get closer to the first housing part (210) (or the side (210c)). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the protective member (410) may be lifted relative to the second hinge housing part (265). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0101] For example, referring sequentially to FIGS. 5d, 5c, and 5b, the electronic device (101) can be moved in a second direction opposite to the first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) while the third housing part (230) changes from a state (500c) in which the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), to a state (500b), and to a state (500a) in which the third housing part (230) is unfolded relative to the second housing part (220). For example, while the third housing part (230) is unfolded relative to the second housing part (220), the protective member (410) can be lowered from the second hinge housing part (265). For example, while the third housing part (230) is unfolded relative to the second housing part (220), the length of the protective member (410) protruding from the front surface (e.g., the front surface (245a) of FIG. 4B) of the fifth display portion (245) may decrease. For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the distance between the protective surface (410a) of the protective member (410) configured to face the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) and the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) may change from a second distance (d2) to a first distance (d1) that is relatively larger than the second distance (d2). For example, while the third housing part (230) is unfolded relative to the second housing part (220), the securing portion (411) of the protective member (410) accommodated in the securing groove (450) of the second hinge housing part (265) within the state (500a) can be fully inserted into the securing groove (450).For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220) with the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) facing the protective member (410), the protective member (410) can be moved away from the first housing part (210) (or the side surface (210c)) by moving in the second direction (502) away from the first housing part (210) (or the side surface (210c)). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the protective member (410) can be put down into the second hinge housing part (265) (or the mounting groove (450) of FIG. 4B). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The protective member (410) can reduce damage to the fifth display portion (245) caused by the first housing part (210) moving in a first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) as the third housing part (230) is folded with respect to the second housing part (220). The protective member (410) can increase the aesthetics and usability of the electronic device (101) in a first state (e.g., the first state (101a) of FIG. 2A) by moving in a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) as the third housing part (230) is unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto. Below, structures and / or configurations of the electronic device (101) for moving the protective member (410) are exemplarily described.

[0102] The protective member (410) may include one or more protrusions (510) protruding from the protective member (410). The housing (200) may include one or more lifting portions (520) configured to respectively push up the one or more protrusions (510). The one or more lifting portions (520) may be configured to raise the protective member (410) by respectively pushing up the one or more protrusions (510). For example, the one or more lifting portions (520) may protrude toward the protective member (410) on the inner surface (221) of the second housing part (220) and / or the inner surface (231) of the third housing part (230). The one or more lifting portions (520) may be configured to protrude toward the protective member (410) so as to come into contact with or be spaced apart from one or more protrusions (510) protruding from the protective member (410) while the state of the electronic device (101) is changed.

[0103] For example, the one or more protrusions (510) may include a first protrusion (511) protruding from the protective member (410) toward the inner surface (221) of the second housing part (220), and a second protrusion (512) protruding from the protective member (410) toward the inner surface (231) of the third housing part (230). The housing (200) may include a first lifting portion (521) formed on the inner surface (221) of the second housing part (220) and configured to push up the first protrusion (511), and a second lifting portion (522) formed on the inner surface (231) of the third housing part (230) and configured to push up the second protrusion (512).

[0104] For example, the inner surface (221) of the second housing part (220) and the inner surface (231) of the third housing part (230) can at least partially accommodate the second hinge housing part (265). The protective member (410) can face the inner surface (221) of the second housing part (220) and / or the inner surface (231) of the third housing part (230) by being at least partially accommodated in the second hinge housing part (265).

[0105] For example, the inner surface (221) of the second housing part (220) may include a first inner surface (221a) facing the protective member (410) and a second inner surface (221b) extending from the first inner surface (221a). The second inner surface (221b) may be a surface that slides with respect to the second hinge housing part (265) while the second housing part (220) rotates with respect to the second hinge housing part (265). The first lifting portion (521) may be formed on the first inner surface (221a) to face the protective member (410). The first protrusion (511) may be formed on one surface of the protective member (410) facing the first inner surface (221a). For example, the inner surface (231) of the third housing part (230) may include a third inner surface (231a) facing the protective member (410) and a fourth inner surface (231b) extending from the third inner surface (231a). The fourth inner surface (231b) may be a surface that slides with respect to the second hinge housing part (265) while the third housing part (230) rotates with respect to the second hinge housing part (265). The second lifting portion (522) may be formed on the third inner surface (231a) to face the protective member (410). The second protrusion (512) may be formed on one surface of the protective member (410) facing the third inner surface (231a). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of protrusions formed on the protective member (410) and a plurality of lifting portions formed on the housing (200) to correspond to the plurality of protrusions, respectively, for pushing up the protective member (410).

[0106] For example, when sequentially referring to FIGS. 5b, 5c, and 5d, while changing from state (500a) to state (500b), the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) can each be rotated relative to the second hinge housing part (265). The first lifting portion (521) formed on the second housing part (220) can be brought into contact with the first protrusion (511) of the protection member (410) by rotating along the second housing part (220). The second lifting portion (522) formed on the third housing part (230) can be brought into contact with the second protrusion (512) of the protection member (410) by rotating along the third housing part (230). Referring sequentially to FIGS. 5b to 5d, while changing from an unfolded state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., state (500a)) to a multi-folded state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., state (500c)), the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) can be completely folded relative to each other by being rotated with respect to the second hinge housing part (265), respectively. The first lifting part (521) can push the first protrusion (511) in the first direction (501) by rotating along the second housing part (220) while in contact with the first protrusion (511). The second lifting portion (522) can push the second protrusion (512) in the second direction (502) by rotating along the third housing part (230) while in contact with the second protrusion (512). The one or more lifting portions (520) can move the protective member (410) in the first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) by pushing one or more protrusions (510) of the protective member (410) while the third housing part (230) is folded with respect to the second housing part (220).

[0107] For example, when sequentially referring to FIGS. 5d, 5c, and 5b, while changing from state (500c) to state (500b), the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) can each be rotated relative to the second hinge housing part (265). The first lifting portion (521) formed on the second housing part (220) can be lowered by rotating along the second housing part (220) while in contact with the first protrusion (511) of the protection member (410). The second lifting portion (522) formed on the third housing part (230) can be lowered by rotating along the third housing part (230) while in contact with the second protrusion (512) of the protection member (410). As the first lifting part (521) and the second lifting part (522) are lowered, the protective member (410) can be moved in a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501). During the change from state (500b) to state (500a), the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) can be fully unfolded relative to each other by being rotated with respect to the second hinge housing part (265). The first lifting part (521) can be separated from the first protrusion (511) by rotating along the second housing part (220). The second lifting part (522) can be separated from the second protrusion (512) by rotating along the third housing part (230). One or more lifting portions (520) can move the protective member (410) in a second direction (502) downward toward the second hinge housing part (265) by being spaced apart from one or more protrusions (510) of the protective member (410) while the third housing part (230) is unfolded relative to the second housing part (220).However, it should be noted that the above is merely exemplary, and the electronic device (101) may include various structures and / or configurations that move the protective member (410) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes to reduce damage to the fifth display portion (245), and thus the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0108] For example, referring to FIG. 5c, a state (500b) is exemplarily illustrated in which one or more lifting portions (520) initiate contact with one or more corresponding protrusions (510), respectively. The first lifting portion (521) and the second lifting portion (522) may be brought into contact with the first protrusion (511) and the second protrusion (512), respectively, within a state in which the angle (a) between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) is within a specified angular range. The specified angular range may be from 45 degrees to 90 degrees, but the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 5b and 5d, a state (500a) in which the third housing part (230) and the second housing part (220) are fully unfolded relative to each other, and a state (500c) in which the third housing part (230) and the second housing part (220) are fully folded relative to each other are exemplarily illustrated. The range of movement (r) of the protective member (410) with respect to the second hinge housing part (265) may be 2 mm to 4 mm. For example, the difference between the distance (d1) between the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) and the protective surface (410a) of the protective member (410) in the state (500a) and the distance (d2) between the side surface (210c) and the protective surface (410a) in the state (500c) may be 2 mm to 4 mm. However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0110] For example, referring to FIG. 5d, state (500c) may be referred to as a second state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., second state (101b) of FIG. 2b), which is a multi-folded state of the electronic device (101). The protective member (410) may be spaced apart from the first housing part (210) in the second state in which the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) are each folded with respect to the second housing part (220). In the second state (101b), a distance (d2) between the protective member (410) and the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) facing the protective member (410) may be 0.05 mm to 2 mm. However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and for example, the protective member (410) may be brought into contact with the first housing part (210) by moving in the first direction (501) with respect to the second hinge housing part (265) while the state of the electronic device (101) is changed. For example, the protective surface (420a) of the protective member (410) may be configured to be brought into contact with the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) within the second state (101b) of the electronic device (101). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0111] The electronic device (101) can reduce damage to the fifth display portion (245) due to external impact by using the protective member (410) by including a second hinge housing part (265) configured to rise or fall while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. In FIG. 6A and below, structures and / or configurations for guiding the movement of the protective member (410) that is movable with respect to the second hinge housing part (265) and aligning the position of the protective member (410) are exemplarily described.

[0112] FIG. 6A is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device in a first state. FIG. 6B is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary electronic device taken along line B-B' of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6C illustrates a portion of the exemplary electronic device in the first state. FIG. 6D illustrates a portion of the exemplary electronic device in the second state.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200) including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), a third housing part (230), a first hinge housing part (e.g., the first hinge housing part (255) of FIG. 4C) that is at least partially positioned between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) and has a first width (e.g., w1 of FIG. 3A), and a second hinge housing part (265) that is at least partially positioned between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a second width (e.g., w2 of FIG. 3A) that is greater than the first width (w1). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2b) that is at least partially accommodated within the first hinge housing part (255) and rotatably couples the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (e.g., the second hinge assembly (260) of FIG. 3a) that is at least partially accommodated within the second hinge housing part (265) and rotatably couples the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) may include a protective member (410) that is disposed adjacent to a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part (265). The protective member (410) may be configured to move in a first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) and in a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501) as the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220).However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include structures and / or configurations (e.g., protective covers (215, 225, 235), display parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245), cover member (420), protrusion (415) of protective member (410), mounting groove (450), outer wall (451), inner wall (452), one or more protrusions (510), one or more lifting portions (520)) described in FIGS. 4A to 5D. Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of structures and / or configurations having the same reference numerals as those described in FIGS. 4A to 5D may be omitted.

[0114] The protective member (410) may include a guide portion (610) that slides relative to the second hinge housing part (265) as the protective member (410) moves relative to the second hinge housing part (265). The second hinge housing part (265) may include a guide rail (620) that is formed on an inner wall (452) of a mounting groove (450) in which the protective member (410) is mounted and guides the guide portion (610) to move in a first direction (501) and a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501).

[0115] For example, the protective member (410) may be at least partially interposed between the outer wall (451) and the inner wall (452) of the mounting groove (450) formed at the longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part (265). The guide rail (620) may be formed on the inner wall (452). The guide portion (610) may be accommodated within the guide rail (620) by protruding from the mounting portion (411) of the protective member (410). For example, the guide rail (620) may have a length in a first direction (501) which is the moving direction of the protective member (410) and a second direction (502) which is opposite to the first direction (501), thereby guiding the moving direction of the guide portion (610) which is slidable through the guide rail (620) in the first direction (501) and the second direction (502). The second hinge housing part (265) may include a guide rail (620) that guides the movement of the guide part (610) that is slidable with respect to the second hinge housing part (265), thereby guiding the movement and position of the protection member (410). However, the embodiment supported by the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and for example, although not shown, the guide part (610) may protrude from the protection member (410) toward the outer wall (451) of the mounting groove (450). The guide rail (620) may be formed on the outer wall (451) to guide the movement of the guide part (610). However, the embodiment supported by the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include guide structures for guiding the movement of the protection member (410) in the first direction (501) and the second direction (502).

[0116] For example, the guide portion (610) may include a first guide portion (611) protruding from one side of the protective member (410) facing the inner wall (452) of the mounting groove (450) and a second guide portion (612) protruding from the one side and spaced apart from the first guide portion (611). The second hinge housing part (265) may include a first guide rail (621) formed on the inner wall (452) and accommodating the first guide portion (611), and a second guide rail (622) accommodating the second guide portion (612). The guide rails (621, 622) may have lengths in the first direction (501) and / or the second direction (502), which are the movement direction of the protective member (410), thereby guiding the movement direction of the guide portions (611, 612). The above guide rails (621, 622) can guide the movement of the protection member (410) in the first direction (501) or the second direction (502) by guiding the movement direction of the guide parts (611, 612). For example, referring sequentially to FIGS. 6C and 6D , the guide rails (621, 622) can be configured to guide the movement of the guide parts (611, 612) of the protection member (410) that are raised (e.g., via the lifting parts (521, 522)), thereby moving the protection member (410) in the first direction (501). For example, referring sequentially to FIGS. 6d and 6c, the guide rails (621, 622) may be configured to guide the movement of the guide portions (611, 612) of the descending protective member (410) (e.g., via the lifting portions (521, 522)), thereby moving the protective member (410) in a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0117] The protective member (410) may include a hook portion (630) protruding from the protective member (410) toward the inner wall (452) of the mounting groove (450). The second hinge housing part (265) may form a space in the inner wall (452) for accommodating the hook portion (630) and may include a hole (650) for restricting movement of the hook portion (630) to prevent the protective member (410) from being separated from the second hinge housing part (265) when the third housing part (230) is unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220). For example, the hook portion (630) may protrude from one side of the protective member (410) toward the inner wall (452) of the mounting groove (450) together with the guide portions (611, 612) of the protective member (410). For example, the hook portion (630) may be positioned, formed, or arranged between the first guide portion (611) and the second guide portion (612). For example, the hook portion (630) may protrude into the inside of the hole (650) formed in the inner wall (452). The hook portion (630) may contact or be locked to the inner surface (650a) of the hole (650) as the protection member (410) moves with respect to the second hinge housing part (265). The hook portion (630) may limit the range of movement of the protection member (410) by contacting the inner surface (650a) of the hole (650). The above hook portion (630) can reduce the detachment of the protective member (410) from the housing (200) while the state of the electronic device (101) is changed by limiting the movement range of the protective member (410).

[0118] For example, the inner wall (452) may include a support portion (452a) in which a hole (650) is formed that is at least partially penetrated by a hook portion (630). The support portion (452a) may be partitioned or defined by a first guide rail (621) and a second guide rail (622). The support portion (452a) may be positioned, for example, between the first guide portion (611) and the second guide portion (612) of the protection member (410). For example, referring sequentially to FIGS. 6C and 6D , the hook portion (630) may be raised in the first direction (501) along the rising protection member (410) (e.g., via lifting portions (521, 522)). The inner surface (650a) of the hole (650) can limit the movement of the protective member (410) in the first direction (501) by contacting the hook portion (630). By limiting the movement of the protective member (410) in the first direction (501), the electronic device (101) can reduce the detachment of the protective member (410) from the housing (200) while the state of the electronic device (101) is changed. However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0119] For example, although not shown, the hook portion (630) may protrude from the protective member (410) toward the outer wall (451) of the mounting groove (450). The hole (650) may be formed in the outer wall (451) to accommodate the hook portion (630) in order to limit the range of movement of the hook portion (630). For example, unlike the illustration, the guide rails (621, 622) may be formed in a slot shape that forms a closed surface rather than a slit shape with one end open. The guide rails (621, 622) may each form a closed surface, thereby limiting the movement of the guide portions (611, 612) accommodated in each of the guide rails (621, 622). However, the above-described embodiments are merely exemplary, and the electronic device (101) may include structures and / or configurations formed on the housing (200) and / or the protective member (410) to guide the direction and position of movement of the protective member (410).

[0120] Figure 7a illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a first state. Figure 7b illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device in a second state.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B , the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200) including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), a third housing part (230), a first hinge housing part (e.g., the first hinge housing part (255) of FIG. 4C) that is at least partially disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) and has a first width (e.g., w1 of FIG. 3A), and a second hinge housing part (265) that is at least partially disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a second width (e.g., w2 of FIG. 3A) that is greater than the first width (w1). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2B) that is at least partially accommodated within the first hinge housing part (255) and rotatably couples the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (260) that is at least partially accommodated within the second hinge housing part (265) and rotatably couples the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) may include a protective member (410) that is disposed adjacent to a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part (265). The protective member (410) may be configured to move in a first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) and in a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501) as the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220).However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include structures and / or configurations (e.g., protective covers (215, 225, 235), display parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245), cover member (420), protrusion (415) of protective member (410), mounting groove (450), outer wall (451), inner wall (452), one or more protrusions (510), one or more lifting parts (520), guide part (610), guide rail (620), hook part (630), hole (650)) described in FIGS. 4A to 6D . Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of structures and / or configurations having the same reference numerals as those described in FIGS. 4A to 6D may be omitted.

[0122] The electronic device (101) may further include an elastic member (710) disposed between the protective member (410) and the second hinge housing part (265) to provide elastic support. The elastic member (710) may be configured to provide a repulsive force to the hook portion (630) by being pressed by the hook portion (630) of the protective member (410). For example, referring to FIG. 7A, the elastic member (710) may secure the protective member (410) (or the mounting portion (411) of the protective member (410)) within the mounting groove (450) by pressing the hook portion (630) toward the mounting groove (450) (e.g., in the second direction (502)). For example, the elastic member (710) may be disposed over the hook portion (630). The elastic member (710) can be elastically deformable and thus maintain contact with the hook portion (630) while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. For example, the elastic member (710) can be at least partially positioned between the hole (650) of the second hinge housing part (265) and the hook portion (630) of the protective member (410). For example, the elastic member (710) can be attached to or coupled to the inner surface (650a) of the hole (650). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0123] For example, the elastic member (710) may be coupled to or attached to a portion of the outer wall (451) and the inner wall (452) of the mounting groove (450) that accommodates at least a portion of the protective member (410). The elastic member (710) may be configured to press the guide portions (611, 612) and / or the hook portion (630) of the protective member (410), thereby providing elastic support to the protective member (410). However, it should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments are exemplary and do not limit the arrangement relationship of the elastic member (710) within the electronic device (101).

[0124] For example, when referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B sequentially, the hook portion (630) can be moved in the first direction (501) along with the protective member (410) moving in the first direction (501) with respect to the second hinge housing part (265). The elastic member (710) can provide a repulsive force to the hook portion (630) in the second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501) by being pressed by the hook portion (630) moving in the first direction (501). For example, when referring to FIGS. 7B and 7A sequentially, the hook portion (630) can be moved in the second direction (502) along with the protective member (410) moving in the second direction (502) with respect to the second hinge housing part (265). The elastic member (710) can help the movement of the protective member (410) in the second direction (502) by providing a repulsive force to the hook portion (630) in the second direction (502) while the hook portion (630) is moved in the second direction (502). The protective member (410) can naturally move in the second direction (502) based on the repulsive force applied from the elastic member (710) to the hook portion (630). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0125] FIG. 8A illustrates a portion of an exemplary electronic device. FIG. 8B is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary electronic device taken along line C-C' of FIG. 8A. FIG. 8C illustrates a portion of the exemplary electronic device.

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200) including a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing part (220), a third housing part (230), a first hinge housing part (e.g., the first hinge housing part (255) of FIG. 4C) that is at least partially disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) and has a first width (e.g., w1 of FIG. 3A), and a second hinge housing part (265) that is at least partially disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a second width (e.g., w2 of FIG. 3A) that is greater than the first width (w1). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2b) that is at least partially accommodated within the first hinge housing part (255) and rotatably couples the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (e.g., the second hinge assembly (260) of FIG. 3a) that is at least partially accommodated within the second hinge housing part (265) and rotatably couples the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) may include a protective member (410) that is disposed adjacent to a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part (265). The protective member (410) may be configured to move in a first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) and in a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501) as the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220).However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include structures and / or configurations (e.g., protective covers (215, 225, 235), display parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245), cover member (420), protrusion (415) of protective member (410), mounting groove (450), outer wall (451), inner wall (452), one or more protrusions (510), one or more lifting parts (520), guide part (610), guide rail (620), hook part (630), hole (650), elastic member (710)) described in FIGS. 4A to 7B . Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of structures and / or configurations having the same reference numerals as those described in FIGS. 4A to 5D may be omitted.

[0127] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the cover member (420) may be positioned to cover at least a portion of an edge of the fifth display part (245) to prevent foreign substances from entering between the fifth display part (245) and the second hinge housing part (265). The cover member (420) may be supported by a protective member (410) positioned adjacent to the cover member (420).

[0128] For example, the cover member (420) may be disposed on an edge of the fifth display portion (245). For example, the cover member (420) may be at least partially disposed between the second protective cover (225) coupled with the second housing part (220) and the third protective cover (235) coupled with the third housing part (230). For example, the cover member (420) may be disposed along an edge of the fifth display portion (245), such that it faces a portion of the front surface (e.g., the front surface (245a) of FIG. 4B) of the fifth display portion (245) and / or a portion of the side surface (e.g., the side surface (245c) of FIG. 4B) of the fifth display portion (245). For example, the cover member (420) may be elastically deformed while the state of the electronic device (101) changes. The cover member (420) is supported by the protrusion (415) of the protective member (410), thereby maintaining its position on the fifth display portion (245) while the state of the electronic device (101) is changed. However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0129] The cover member (420) can be coupled with the protection member (410) such that at least a portion of the cover member (420) moves in a first direction (501) and a second direction (502) relative to the second hinge housing part (265) as the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded relative to the second housing part (220). For example, the cover member (420) can include a first cover portion (421) that is at least partially disposed under the first protection cover (215), a second cover portion (422) that is at least partially disposed under the second protection cover (225), and a third cover portion (423) that extends from the first cover portion (421) to the second cover portion (422). Among the cover parts (421, 422, 423), the third cover part (423) is coupled with the protrusion (415) of the protection member (410), and thus can move in the first direction (501) and the second direction (502), which are the moving directions of the protection member (410), as the protection member (410) moves. For example, the third cover part (423) may include a fastening groove (423a) coupled with the protrusion (415) of the protection member (410). The third cover part (423) can move or elastically deform according to the movement of the protection member (410) by accommodating the protrusion (415) of the protection member (410). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto. The electronic device (101) includes a cover member (420) coupled to the protective member (410) so as to move at least partially together with the protective member (410), thereby readjusting the position of the cover member (420) by utilizing the movement of the protective member (410) and reducing the inflow of foreign substances through the gap between the fifth display portion (245) and the housing (200).

[0130] Referring to FIG. 8C, the housing (200) may include a bracket (800) that is at least partially positioned within the second hinge housing part (265) and coupled with the second hinge housing part (265). Unlike as illustrated in FIGS. 6A to 7B, a guide rail (620) for guiding the movement of the guide portion (610) of the protection member (410) may be formed in the bracket (800). For example, the protection member (410) may be seated within the seating groove (450) of the second hinge housing part (265). The guide portions (611, 612) protruding from the protection member (410) may protrude toward the side wall (801) of the bracket (800). The side wall (801) may include guide rails (621, 622) for accommodating the guide parts (611, 612) and guiding the movement of the guide parts (611, 612) in the first direction (501) and the second direction (502). However, as described above, the electronic device (101) may include internal structures and / or configurations for guiding the movement of the protective member (410) or limiting the movement range of the protective member (410) in addition to the second hinge housing part (265), so it should be noted that the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0131] Figures 9a, 9b, and 9c illustrate movement of a protective member according to a change in the state of an exemplary electronic device. Figures 9d, 9e, and 9f illustrate movement of a protective member according to a change in the state of an exemplary electronic device.

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, and 9F, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (200) including a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), a third housing part (230), a first hinge housing part (e.g., the first hinge housing part (255) of FIG. 4C) that is at least partially disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) and has a first width (e.g., w1 of FIG. 3A), and a second hinge housing part (265) that is at least partially disposed between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) and has a second width (e.g., w2 of FIG. 3A) that is greater than the first width (w1). The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2b) that is at least partially accommodated within the first hinge housing part (255) and rotatably couples the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (e.g., the second hinge assembly (260) of FIG. 3a) that is at least partially accommodated within the second hinge housing part (265) and rotatably couples the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230). The electronic device (101) may include a protective member (410) that is disposed adjacent to a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part (265). The protective member (410) may be configured to move in a first direction (501) away from the second hinge housing part (265) and in a second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501) as the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220).However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the electronic device (101) may include structures and / or configurations (e.g., protective covers (215, 225, 235), display parts (241, 242, 243, 244, 245), cover member (420), protrusion (415) of protective member (410), mounting groove (450), outer wall (451), inner wall (452), one or more protrusions (510), one or more lifting parts (520), guide part (610), guide rail (620), hook part (630), hole (650), elastic member (710), protective parts (421, 422, 423), bracket (800)) described in FIGS. 4A to 8C. Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of structures and / or configurations having the same reference numerals as those described in FIGS. 4a to 8c may be omitted.

[0133] As exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 9A to 9F, one or more protrusions (510) of the protective member (410) and / or one or more lifting portions (520) corresponding to each of the one or more protrusions (510) for moving the protective member (410) (e.g., in the first direction (501) or in the second direction (502) opposite to the first direction (501)) while the third housing part (230) is unfolded or folded relative to the second housing part (220) may have various shapes.

[0134] For example, referring to FIGS. 9a, 9b, and 9c, the first protrusion (511) may include a first portion (911) defining a first guide surface (511a) and a second guide surface (511b) extending from the first guide surface (511a). The first lifting portion (521) configured to push up the first protrusion (511) may include a first support surface (521a) configured to contact the first guide surface (511a) and a first support portion (921) defining a second support surface (521b) extending from the first support surface (521a). The second protrusion (512) may include a second portion (912) defining a third guide surface (512a) and a fourth guide surface (512b) extending from the third guide surface (512a). The second lifting portion (522) configured to push up the second protrusion (512) may include a second support portion (922) defining a third support surface (522a) configured to contact the third guide surface (512a) and a fourth support surface (522b) extending from the third support surface (522a).

[0135] When sequentially referring to FIGS. 9a, 9b, and 9c, while the third housing part (230) changes from a state (900a) in which it is fully unfolded relative to the second housing part (220), to a state (900b) in which it is fully folded relative to the second housing part (220), each portion (911, 912) of the protrusions (511, 512) can guide the rotation and / or movement of the lifting portions (521, 522). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the first support surface (521a) can guide the movement of the first lifting part (521) by sliding along the first guide surface (511a) of the curved first part (911). The first support portion (921) of the first lifting part (521) can push the first protrusion (511) in the first direction (501) through contact between the second support surface (521b) extending from the first support surface (521a) and the second guide surface (511b) of the first protrusion (511). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the third support surface (522a) can guide the movement of the second lifting part (522) by sliding along the third guide surface (512a) of the curved second part (912). The second support portion (922) of the second lifting part (522) can push the second protrusion (512) in the first direction (501) through contact between the fourth support surface (522b) extending from the third support surface (522a) and the fourth guide surface (512b) of the second protrusion (512). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0136] Referring sequentially to FIGS. 9d, 9e, and 9f, while the third housing part (230) changes from a fully unfolded state (900a) with respect to the second housing part (220), to a state (900b), and to a fully folded state (900c) with respect to the second housing part (220), each portion (911, 912) of the protrusions (511, 512) may guide the rotation and / or movement of the lifting portions (521, 522). For example, the protrusions (511, 512) may each have a circular shape. The second support surface (521b) of the first lifting portion (521) may be recessed from the first support surface (521a). The fourth support surface (522b) of the second lifting portion (522) can be recessed from the third support surface (522a). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded with respect to the second housing part (220), the first support surface (521a) can guide the movement of the first lifting portion (521) by sliding through contact with the surface of the first protrusion (511). The second support surface (521b) can push the first protrusion (511) in the first direction (501) by moving along the second housing part (220). For example, while the third housing part (230) is folded relative to the second housing part (220), the third support surface (522a) can guide the movement of the second lifting part (522) by sliding through contact with the surface of the second protrusion (512). The fourth support surface (522b) can push the second protrusion (512) in the first direction (501) by moving along the third housing part (230).However, the above-mentioned embodiments are merely exemplary, and one or more of the protrusions (510) and / or one or more of the lifting parts (520) may have various shapes to guide each other's position or move the one or more of the protrusions (510).

[0137] As described above, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) includes a housing (e.g., the housing (200) of FIG. 2a) including a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 2a), a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 2a), and a third housing part (e.g., the third housing part (230) of FIG. 2a). The electronic device includes a first hinge structure (e.g., a first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 3a) that rotatably couples the first housing part and the second housing part, a second hinge structure (e.g., a second hinge assembly (260) of FIG. 3a) that rotatably couples the second housing part and the third housing part, a first hinge housing (e.g., a first hinge housing part (255) of FIG. 4c) that surrounds a portion of the first hinge structure, and a second hinge housing (e.g., a second hinge housing (265) of FIG. 4c) that surrounds a portion of the second hinge structure (260) and is wider than the first hinge housing. The electronic device includes a foldable display (e.g., a flexible display (240) of FIG. 2A) supported by the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part and including a bendable display portion (e.g., a fifth display portion (245) of FIG. 2A) corresponding to the second hinge structure, and configured to be bent in a single folded state or a multi-folded state of the electronic device. The electronic device may include a protective member (e.g., a protective member (410) of FIG. 4A) accommodated within a longitudinal end portion of the second hinge housing and adjacent to the bendable display portion of the foldable display.The protective member is configured to move from a first position to a second position relative to the second hinge housing when the third housing part rotates relative to the second housing part from the single folded state to the folded state of the electronic device. The protective member can reduce damage to the bendable display portion due to movement of the first housing part due to an external impact.

[0138] For example, the electronic device may further include a cover member (e.g., cover member (420) of FIG. 4a) arranged to cover at least a portion of the edge of the bendable display portion. The protective member may be moved in a first vertical direction (e.g., first direction (501) of FIG. 5b) with respect to the cover member while the side of the first housing part (e.g., side (210c) of FIG. 4c) is changed from an unfolded state to the multi-folded state in which the side is facing the bendable display portion. The protective member may be moved in a second vertical direction (e.g., second direction (502) of FIG. 5b) opposite to the first vertical direction with respect to the cover member while the protective member is changed from the multi-folded state to the unfolded state.

[0139] For example, the protective member may include a first protrusion (e.g., a first protrusion (511) of FIG. 5A) protruding from the protective member toward the inner surface of the second housing part, and a second protrusion (e.g., a second protrusion (512) of FIG. 5A) protruding from the protective member toward the inner surface of the third housing part.

[0140] The housing may further include a first lifting portion (e.g., the first lifting portion (521) of FIG. 5a) formed on the inner surface of the second housing part and configured to push up the first protrusion, and a second lifting portion (e.g., the second lifting portion (522) of FIG. 5a) formed on the inner surface of the third housing part and configured to push up the second protrusion. The first lifting portion and the second lifting portion may be brought into contact with the first protrusion and the second protrusion, respectively, within a state where an angle (e.g., a of FIG. 5c) between the second housing part and the third housing part is within a specified angular range.

[0141] For example, the specified angle range may be from 45 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0142] For example, the range of movement of the protective member relative to the second hinge housing may be 2 mm to 4 mm.

[0143] For example, the protective member may include a guide portion (e.g., a guide portion (610) of FIG. 6a) that slides relative to the second hinge housing as the protective member moves relative to the second hinge housing. The second hinge housing may include a seating groove (e.g., a seating groove (450) of FIG. 4b) in which the protective member is seated, and a guide rail (e.g., a guide rail (620) of FIG. 6a) formed on a side wall (e.g., an inner wall (452) of FIG. 4b) of the seating groove that guides the guide portion to move in a first vertical direction away from the second hinge housing or a second vertical direction opposite to the first vertical direction.

[0144] For example, the protective member may further include a hook portion (e.g., a hook portion (630) of FIG. 6a) protruding from the protective member toward the side wall. The second hinge housing may further include a hole (e.g., a hole (650) of FIG. 6b) that forms a space in the side wall for movably receiving the hook portion and restricts movement of the hook portion to prevent the protective member from being separated from the second hinge housing when the third housing part is unfolded with respect to the second housing part.

[0145] For example, the electronic device may further include an elastic member (e.g., an elastic member (710) of FIG. 7A) positioned to provide elastic support between the protective member and the second hinge housing. The elastic member may be configured to provide a repulsive force to the hook portion by being pressed by the hook portion.

[0146] For example, the elastic member may be positioned at least partially between the hole and the hook portion. The protective member may be configured to move in the second vertical direction based on the repulsive force exerted to the hook portion.

[0147] For example, the housing may include a first protective cover (e.g., the first protective cover (215) of FIG. 5A) coupled to the first housing part and positioned to cover a portion of the foldable display, a second protective cover (e.g., the second protective cover (225) of FIG. 5A) coupled to the second housing part and positioned to cover a portion of the foldable display, and a third protective cover (e.g., the third protective cover (235) of FIG. 5A) coupled to the third housing part and positioned to cover a portion of the foldable display. The protective member may be at least partially disposed between the second protective cover and the third protective cover when viewed from above the electronic device.

[0148] For example, the electronic device may further include a cover member supported by the protective member, the cover member being arranged to cover at least a portion of an edge of the bendable display portion to prevent foreign matter from entering between the bendable display portion and the second hinge housing. The cover member may be coupled with the protective member such that at least a portion of the cover member moves together with the protective member as the third housing part is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part.

[0149] For example, the cover member may include a first cover portion (e.g., the first cover portion (421) of FIG. 8A) fixed to the second housing part, a second cover portion (e.g., the second cover portion (422) of FIG. 8A) fixed to the third housing part, and a third cover portion (e.g., the third cover portion (423) of FIG. 8A) disposed between the first cover portion and the second cover portion and configured to accommodate a portion of the protection member so as to move together with the protection member.

[0150] For example, the width of the first housing part may be smaller than the width of the second housing part and the width of the third housing part.

[0151] For example, the protective member may be spaced apart from the first housing part within the multi-folded state in which the first housing part and the third housing part are each folded relative to the second housing part.

[0152] For example, the distance between the protective member and the side of the first housing part facing the protective member within the multi-folded state (e.g., d2 in FIG. 5d) may be 0.05 mm to 2 mm.

[0153] According to the above, a multi-foldable electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) comprises a foldable housing (e.g., housing (200) of FIG. 2a) including a first housing part (e.g., first housing part (210) of FIG. 2a), a second housing part (e.g., second housing part (220) of FIG. 2a), a third housing part (e.g., third housing part (230) of FIG. 2a), a first hinge housing part (e.g., first hinge housing part (255) of FIG. 4c) which is at least partially disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part and has a first width (e.g., w1 of FIG. 3a), and a second hinge housing part (e.g., second hinge housing part (265) of FIG. 4b) which is at least partially disposed between the second housing part and the third housing part and has a second width (e.g., w2 of FIG. 3a) which is larger than the first width. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 2B) that is at least partially accommodated within the first hinge housing part and rotatably couples the first housing part and the second housing part, a second hinge assembly (e.g., the second hinge assembly (260) of FIG. 2B) that is at least partially accommodated within the second hinge housing part and rotatably couples the second housing part and the third housing part, a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 2A) that is coupled to the foldable housing and is configured to be partially bent by the first hinge assembly and the second hinge assembly, and a protective member (e.g., the protective member (410) of FIG. 4A) that is disposed adjacent to a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing part.The protective member may be configured to move, with respect to the second hinge housing part, in a first direction away from the second hinge housing part (e.g., the first direction (501) of FIG. 5b) and in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the second direction (502) of FIG. 5b), respectively, as the third housing part is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part.

[0154] For example, the protective member may include a first protrusion (e.g., a first protrusion (511) in FIG. 5A) that protrudes from the protective member toward the inner surface of the second housing part (e.g., the inner surface (221) in FIG. 5A), and a second protrusion (e.g., a second protrusion (512) in FIG. 5A) that protrudes from the protective member toward the inner surface of the third housing part (e.g., the inner surface (231) in FIG. 5A). The foldable housing may further include a first lifting portion (e.g., a first lifting portion (521) in FIG. 5A) that is formed on the inner surface of the second housing part and is configured to push up the first protrusion, and a second lifting portion (e.g., a second lifting portion (522) in FIG. 5A) that is formed on the inner surface of the third housing part and is configured to push up the second protrusion. The first lifting portion and the second lifting portion can be brought into contact with the first protrusion and the second protrusion, respectively, within a state where the angle between the second housing part and the third housing part (e.g., a in FIG. 5c) is within a specified angle range.

[0155] For example, the specified angle range may be from 45 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0156] For example, the range of movement of the protective member for the second hinge housing part (e.g., r in FIG. 5d) may be 2 mm to 4 mm.

[0157] For example, the protective member may include a guide portion (e.g., guide portion (610) of FIG. 6A) that slides relative to the second hinge housing part as the protective member moves relative to the second hinge housing part. The second hinge housing part may include a seating groove in which the protective member is seated, and a guide rail (e.g., guide rail (620) of FIG. 6A) that is formed on a side wall of the seating groove and guides the guide portion to move in the first direction or the second direction.

[0158] For example, the protective member may further include a hook portion (e.g., a hook portion (630) of FIG. 6a) protruding from the protective member toward the side wall. The second hinge housing part may further include a hole (e.g., a hole (650) of FIG. 6b) that forms a space in the side wall for movably receiving the hook portion and restricts movement of the hook portion to prevent the protective member from being separated from the second hinge housing part when the third housing part is unfolded with respect to the second housing part.

[0159] For example, the multi-foldable electronic device may further include an elastic member (e.g., an elastic member (710) of FIG. 7A) positioned to provide elastic support between the protective member and the second hinge housing part. The elastic member may be configured to provide a repulsive force to the hook portion by being pressed by the hook portion.

[0160] For example, the elastic member may be positioned at least partially between the hole and the hook portion. The protective member may be configured to move in the second direction based on the repulsive force exerted to the hook portion.

[0161] For example, the flexible display may include a first display portion (e.g., the first display portion (241) of FIG. 2A) coupled to the first housing part, a second display portion (e.g., the second display portion (242) of FIG. 2A) coupled to the second housing part, a third display portion (e.g., the third display portion (243) of FIG. 2A) coupled to the third housing part, a fourth display portion (e.g., the fourth display portion (244) of FIG. 2A) extending from the first display portion to the second display portion and configured to be bent by the first hinge assembly, and a fifth display portion (e.g., the fifth display portion (245) of FIG. 2A) extending from the second display portion to the third display portion and configured to be bent by the second hinge assembly. The protective member may be arranged to face a side surface of the fifth display portion.

[0162] For example, the foldable housing may include a first protective cover (e.g., the first protective cover (215) of FIG. 3A) coupled to the first housing part and positioned to cover at least a portion of an edge of the first display part, a second protective cover (e.g., the second protective cover (225) of FIG. 3A) coupled to the second housing part and positioned to cover at least a portion of an edge of the second display part, and a third protective cover (e.g., the third protective cover (235) of FIG. 3A) coupled to the third housing part and positioned to cover at least a portion of an edge of the third display part. The protective member may be at least partially disposed between the second protective cover and the third protective cover when viewed from above on the multi-foldable electronic device.

[0163] For example, the multi-foldable electronic device may further include a cover member (e.g., a cover member (420) of FIG. 4A) supported by the protective member and arranged to cover at least a portion of an edge of the fifth display part to prevent foreign matter from entering between the fifth display part and the second hinge housing part.

[0164] For example, the cover member may be coupled to the protective member such that at least a portion of the cover member moves in the first direction or the second direction relative to the second hinge housing part as the foldable housing is at least partially folded or unfolded by the second hinge assembly.

[0165] For example, the width of the first housing part may be smaller than the width of the second housing part and the width of the third housing part.

[0166] For example, the protective member may be spaced apart from the first housing part while the first housing part and the third housing part are each folded relative to the second housing part.

[0167] For example, in the state where the first housing part and the third housing part are each folded relative to the second housing part, the distance (e.g., d2 in FIG. 5d) between the protective member and the side surface of the first housing part facing the protective member (e.g., side surface (210c) in FIG. 4c) may be 0.05 mm to 2 mm.

[0168] According to the above, a multi-foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing including a first housing part, a second housing part, a third housing part, a first hinge housing part that is at least partially disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part and has a first width, and a second hinge housing part that is at least partially disposed between the second housing part and the third housing part and has a second width greater than the first width. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a first hinge assembly that is at least partially accommodated within the first hinge housing part and rotatably couples the first housing part and the second housing part, and a second hinge assembly that is at least partially accommodated within the second hinge housing part and rotatably couples the second housing part and the third housing part. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a flexible display including a first display portion coupled to the first housing part, a second display portion coupled to the second housing part, a third display portion coupled to the third housing part, a fourth display portion between the first display portion and the second display portion configured to be bent by the first hinge assembly, and a fifth display portion between the second display portion and the third display portion configured to be bent by the second hinge assembly. The multi-foldable electronic device may include a protective member movably coupled to one end of the second hinge housing part to cover at least a portion of a side surface of the fifth display portion. The protective member may be configured to move between a first position relative to the second hinge housing part and a second position elevated from the first position relative to the second hinge housing part as the third housing part is folded or unfolded relative to the second housing part.

[0169] For example, the protective member may include a first protrusion protruding from the protective member toward the inner surface of the second housing part, and a second protrusion protruding from the protective member toward the inner surface of the third housing part. The foldable housing may include a first lifting portion formed on the inner surface of the second housing part and configured to push up the first protrusion, and a second lifting portion formed on the inner surface of the third housing part and configured to push up the second protrusion. The first lifting portion and the second lifting portion may be brought into contact with the first protrusion and the second protrusion, respectively, within a state where an angle (a) between the second housing part and the third housing part is within a specified angle range.

[0170] For example, the protective member may include a guide portion that slides relative to the second housing part as the protective member moves relative to the second hinge housing part. The second hinge housing part may include a seating groove in which the protective member is seated, and a guide rail formed on a side wall of the seating groove and guiding the guide portion so that the guide portion can move in a first direction or a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0171] For example, the protective member may further include a hook portion protruding from the protective member toward the side wall. The second hinge housing part may further include a hole that forms a space in the side wall for movably receiving the hook portion, and restricts movement of the hook portion to prevent the protective member from being separated from the second hinge housing part when the third housing part is unfolded with respect to the second housing part.

[0172] For example, the multi-foldable electronic device may further include a cover member supported by the protective member, the cover member being arranged to cover at least a portion of an edge of the fifth display part to prevent foreign substances from entering between the fifth display part and the second hinge housing part. The cover member may be coupled with the protective member such that at least a portion of the cover member moves together with the protective member with respect to the second hinge housing part as the foldable housing is at least partially folded or unfolded by the second hinge assembly.

[0173] According to the above, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) comprises a foldable housing (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 2A), a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 2A), a third housing part (e.g., the third housing part (230) of FIG. 2A), a first hinge housing part (e.g., the first hinge housing part (255) of FIG. 4C) which is at least partially disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part and has a first width (e.g., w1 of FIG. 3A), and a second hinge housing part (e.g., the second hinge housing part (265) of FIG. 4C) which is at least partially disposed between the second housing part and the third housing part and has a second width (e.g., w2 of FIG. 3A) which is larger than the first width. The electronic device (101) may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) of FIG. 3A) that is at least partially accommodated in the first hinge housing portion and rotatably connects the first housing portion and the second housing portion, and a second hinge assembly (e.g., the second hinge assembly (260) of FIG. 3A) that is at least partially accommodated in the second hinge housing portion and rotatably connects the second housing portion and the third housing portion. The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 2A) including a first display area (e.g., the first display area (241) of FIG. 2A), a second display area (e.g., the second display area (242) of FIG. 2A), and a third display area (e.g., the third display area (243) of FIG. 2A) accommodated in the first housing portion, the second housing portion, and the third housing portion, respectively.The electronic device (101) may include a display protection member (e.g., protection member (410) of FIG. 4A) disposed adjacent to one end thereof in the longitudinal direction of the second hinge housing portion. The display protection member may be configured to move respectively in a first direction facing away from the second hinge housing portion (e.g., first direction (501) of FIG. 5B) and a second direction opposite thereto (e.g., second direction (502) of FIG. 5B) as the third housing portion is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing portion.

[0174] For example, the display protection member may include a protrusion (e.g., one or more protrusions (510) of FIG. 5B) formed on a first surface thereof and protruding toward an inner surface of each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion. Each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion may include a catch (e.g., one or more lifting portions (520) of FIG. 5B) formed to contact the protrusion when each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion is folded within a specified angle range relative to the second hinge housing portion without contacting the protrusion when the second housing portion and the third housing portion are fully unfolded.

[0175] For example, the specified angle range may be from 45 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0176] For example, when each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion is fully folded relative to the second hinge housing portion, the display protection member can be moved by 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0177] For example, the display protection member may include a slide portion (e.g., a guide portion (610) of FIG. 6A) formed on a second surface opposite to the first surface and slidable with respect to the second hinge housing portion. The second hinge housing portion may include a mounting groove (e.g., a mounting groove (450) of FIG. 4B) in which the display protection member can be mounted, and a rail portion (e.g., a guide rail (620) of FIG. 6A) formed on an inner wall of the mounting groove (e.g., an inner wall (452) of FIG. 6A) to guide the slide portion so that it can move in the first direction or the second direction.

[0178] For example, the second housing portion may include a detachment prevention structure configured to support at least a portion of the display protection member when the second housing portion and the third housing portion are fully unfolded, thereby preventing separation of the display protection member.

[0179] For example, the display protection member may include another protrusion formed on the second surface opposite to the first surface (e.g., the hook portion (630) of FIG. 6A). The anti-separation structure may include a space configured to accommodate the other protrusion so that the other protrusion can move, and an anti-separation hole configured to support the protrusion on its inner wall when the second housing portion and the third housing portion are fully unfolded (e.g., the hole (650) of FIG. 6B).

[0180] For example, the slide portion may include a first slide portion (e.g., a first guide portion (611) of FIG. 6A) corresponding to the second housing portion and a second slide portion (e.g., a second guide portion (612) of FIG. 6A) corresponding to the third housing portion. The rail portion may include a first rail portion (e.g., a first guide rail (621) of FIG. 6A) corresponding to the first slide portion and a second rail portion (e.g., a second guide rail (622) of FIG. 6A) corresponding to the second slide portion.

[0181] For example, the other protrusion may be formed between the first slide portion and the second slide portion. The anti-separation hole may be formed between the first rail portion and the second rail portion.

[0182] For example, the electronic device may further include an elastic member (e.g., an elastic member (710) of FIG. 7A) positioned between the inner wall of the anti-separation hole and the other protrusion to provide elasticity between the display protection member and the second hinge housing portion.

[0183] For example, the display protection member may be set to move in the second direction as the protrusion moves in the second direction based on the elastic force.

[0184] For example, the electronic device may further include a lubricating member disposed between the protrusion and the catch, between the slide and the rail, or between the other protrusion and the anti-separation hole.

[0185] For example, the electronic device may further include a first protective cover (e.g., the first protective cover (215) of FIG. 3A) coupled to the first housing portion and arranged to cover at least a portion of a first edge of the first display area, a second protective cover (e.g., the second protective cover (225) of FIG. 3A) coupled to the second housing portion and arranged to cover at least a portion of a second edge of the second display area, and a third protective cover (e.g., the third protective cover (235) of FIG. 3A) coupled to the third housing portion and arranged to cover at least a portion of a third edge of the third display area.

[0186] For example, the electronic device may include a blocking member (e.g., a cover member (420) of FIG. 4A) that is supported by the display protection member when the second housing portion and the third housing portion are fully unfolded and is arranged to cover at least a portion of a fourth edge of the bending display area between the second display area and the third display area.

[0187] For example, the blocking member is coupled to the display protection member, such that as the third housing portion is folded or unfolded relative to the second housing portion, a portion of the blocking member can also move, respectively, together with the display protection member in the first direction and the second direction.

[0188] For example, when the first housing portion and the third housing portion are completely folded relative to the second housing portion, the first housing portion can be positioned between the second housing portion and the third housing portion.

[0189] For example, the width of the first housing portion may be smaller than the widths of each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion.

[0190] For example, when the first housing portion and the third housing portion are completely folded relative to the second housing portion, the display protection member can be separated from the first housing portion.

[0191] For example, when the first housing portion and the third housing portion are completely folded relative to the second housing portion, the distance between the upper surface of the display protection member (e.g., the protection surface (410a) of FIG. 4c) and the outer wall of the first housing portion (e.g., the side surface (210c) of FIG. 4c) may be in the range of about 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm.

[0192] For example, the electronic device may include a support member (e.g., bracket (800) of FIG. 8C) formed integrally with the second hinge assembly or coupled with the second hinge assembly to accommodate the display protection member. The display protection member may include a slide portion formed on a second surface opposite to the first surface and capable of sliding relative to the second support member. The support member may include a mounting groove capable of being mounted on the display protection member, and a rail portion guiding the slide portion to move in the direction away from the second hinge housing portion of the mounting groove.

[0193] According to the above-mentioned, the electronic device may include a foldable housing including a first housing portion, a second housing portion, and a hinge housing portion at least partially disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion. The electronic device may include a hinge assembly at least partially received in the hinge housing portion and rotatably connected to the first housing portion and the second housing portion. The electronic device may include a flexible display including a first display area and a second display area received in the first housing portion and the second housing portion, respectively. The electronic device may include a display protection member disposed adjacent to one end thereof in a longitudinal direction of the second hinge housing portion. The display protection member may be configured to move in a first direction away from the hinge housing portion and in a second direction opposite thereto, respectively, as the third housing portion is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing portion.

[0194] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0195] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0196] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0197] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (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.

[0198] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0199] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101), A housing (200) comprising a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230); A first hinge structure (250) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220); A second hinge structure (260) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230); A first hinge housing (255) surrounding a portion of the first hinge structure (250); and A second hinge housing (265) that surrounds a portion of the second hinge structure (260) and is wider than the first hinge housing (255); A foldable display (240) supported by the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230), including a bendable display portion (245) corresponding to the second hinge structure (260), and configured to be bent in a single folded state or a multi-folded state of the electronic device (101); and A protective member (410) is accommodated within the longitudinal end portion of the second hinge housing (265) and is adjacent to the bendable display portion (245) of the foldable display (240), The above protective member (410) is When the third housing part (230) rotates relative to the second housing part (220) from the single folded state to the folded state of the electronic device (101), it is configured to move from a first position to a second position relative to the second hinge housing (265). Electronic device (101).

2. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a cover member (420) arranged to cover at least a portion of the edge of the above bendable display portion (245), The above protective member (410): While changing from the unfolded state to the multi-folded state in which the side surface (210c) of the first housing part (210) faces the bendable display portion (245), it moves in a first vertical direction (501) with respect to the cover member (420), While changing from the above multi-folded state to the above unfolded state, the cover member (420) moves in a second vertical direction (502) opposite to the first vertical direction (501). Electronic device (101).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above protective member (410) is A first protrusion (511) protruding from the protective member (410) toward the inner surface (221) of the second housing part (220); and It includes a second protrusion (512) protruding from the protective member (410) toward the inner surface (231) of the third housing part (230), The above housing (200) is A first lifting part (521) formed on the inner surface (221) of the second housing part (220) and configured to push up the first protrusion (511); and It further includes a second lifting part (522) formed on the inner surface (231) of the third housing part (230) and configured to push up the second protrusion (512), The first lifting part (521) and the second lifting part (522) are The angle (a) between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) is within a specified angle range, and is in contact with the first protrusion (511) and the second protrusion (512), respectively. Electronic device (101).

4. In paragraph 3, The range of angles (a) specified above is 45 to 90 degrees, Electronic device (101).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The range of movement of the protective member (410) for the second hinge housing (265) is: 2mm to 4mm, Electronic device (101).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above protective member (410) is The above protective member (410) includes a guide portion (610) that slides relative to the second hinge housing (265) as it moves relative to the second hinge housing (265). The above second hinge housing (265) is A mounting groove (450) in which the above protective member (410) is mounted; and A guide rail (620) formed on the side wall (452) of the above-mentioned settling groove (450) and guiding the guide portion (610) to move in a first vertical direction (501) away from the second hinge housing (265) or in a second vertical direction (502) opposite to the first vertical direction (501). Electronic device (101).

7. In paragraph 6, The above protective member (410) is It further includes a hook portion (630) protruding from the above protective member (410) toward the side wall (452), The above second hinge housing (265) is A space is formed in the side wall (452) to movably accommodate the hook portion (630), and a hole (650) is further included to limit the movement of the hook portion (630) so as to prevent the protection member (410) from being separated from the second hinge housing (265) when the third housing part (230) is unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220). Electronic device (101).

8. In paragraph 7, It further includes an elastic member (710) arranged to provide elastic support between the protective member (410) and the second hinge housing (265), The above elastic member (710) is By being pressed by the above hook portion (630), configured to provide a repulsive force to the above hook portion (630), Electronic device (101).

9. In paragraph 8, The above elastic member (710) is At least partially located between the above hole (650) and the above hook portion (630), The above protective member (410) is It is configured to move in the second vertical direction (502) based on the repulsive force applied to the hook portion (630). Electronic device (101).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above housing (200) is A first protective cover (215) coupled to the first housing part (210) and positioned to cover a portion of the foldable display (240); A second protective cover (225) coupled to the second housing part (220) and positioned to cover a portion of the foldable display (240); and A third protective cover (235) is coupled to the third housing part (230) and is arranged to cover a part of the foldable display (240). The above protective member (410) is At least partially disposed between the second protective cover (225) and the third protective cover (235) when viewed from above of the electronic device (101). Electronic device (101).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1, 3 to 10, In order to prevent foreign substances from entering between the bendable display portion (245) and the second hinge housing (265), a cover member (420) is further included, which is arranged to cover at least a portion of the edge of the bendable display portion (245) and is supported by the protective member (410). The above cover member (420) is As the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220), at least a portion of the cover member (420) is coupled with the protection member (410) so that it moves together with the protection member (410). Electronic device (101).

12. In paragraph 2 or paragraph 11, The above cover member (420) is A first cover part (421) fixed to the second housing part (220); A second cover part (422) fixed to the third housing part (230); and A third cover part (423) disposed between the first cover part (421) and the second cover part (422), and including a part of the protective member (410) that is moved together with the protective member (410). Electronic device (101).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The width of the above first housing part (210) is Smaller than the width of the second housing part (220) and the width of the third housing part (230), Electronic device (101).

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above protective member (410) is The first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) are spaced apart from the first housing part (210) in the multi-folded state in which they are each folded with respect to the second housing part (220). Electronic device (101).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The above foldable display (240) further includes a first display portion (241) coupled to the first housing part (210), a second display portion (242) coupled to the second housing part (220), a third display portion (243) coupled to the third housing part (230), and a fourth display portion (244) between the first display portion (241) and the second display portion (242) configured to be bent by the first hinge structure (250); and The above protective member (410) includes a protective member (410) movably coupled to a longitudinal end of the second hinge housing (265) so as to cover at least a portion of a side surface of the bendable display portion (245), and / or The above protective member (410) is As the third housing part (230) is folded or unfolded with respect to the second housing part (220), it is configured to move between a first position with respect to the second hinge housing (265) and a second position raised from the first position with respect to the second hinge housing (265). Electronic device (101).

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