Buffer member and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

Disclosed is an electronic device comprising: a multi-foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing; a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing; a flexible display disposed on the front surfaces of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing; a protective member disposed in an edge area of the flexible display; a rear cover disposed on the rear surface of the first housing and forming the exterior of the electronic device; and a buffer member disposed in an edge area of the rear cover. When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display face each other, the buffer member disposed on the rear cover and the protective member (236) disposed on the third housing are configured to contact each other.

Description

Buffer member and electronic device including same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a buffer member and a multi-foldable electronic device including the same.

[0002] Advances in electronics, information, and communication technologies have enabled the integration of various functions into a single portable communication or electronic device. For example, smartphones incorporate functions such as audio playback, photography, and electronic note-taking in addition to communication functions. Furthermore, the installation of additional applications can enable even more diverse functions.

[0003] As the use of personal or portable communication devices, such as smartphones, becomes more widespread, user demand for portability and ease of use is increasing. For example, a touchscreen display can serve as an output device, such as a screen that outputs visual information, while also providing a virtual keypad that replaces mechanical input devices (e.g., push-button input devices). This allows portable communication devices or electronic devices to be miniaturized while still offering the same or even improved usability (e.g., by including a larger screen). On the other hand, flexible devices, such as those that can be folded or rolled, offer superior portability and ease of use. However, during the folding operation of a typical electronic device comprising multiple folding sections, the back cover of one housing may collide with the protective member of another housing, resulting in frictional noise and / or damage.

[0004] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0005] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a multi-foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing, a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing, a flexible display disposed at a front side (or side) of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, a protective member disposed at an edge area of ​​the flexible display, a rear cover disposed at a rear side (or side) of the first housing and forming an exterior of the electronic device, and a buffer member disposed at an edge area of ​​the rear cover. When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are disposed to face each other (e.g., face each other), the buffer member disposed at the rear cover and the protective member disposed at the third housing may be configured to contact each other.

[0006] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a multi-foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing, a first hinge structure disposed between the first housing and the second housing and rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, a second hinge structure disposed between the second housing and the third housing and rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing, a flexible display disposed at a front side (or side) of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, a protective member disposed at an edge area of ​​the flexible display, a rear cover disposed at a rear side (or side) of the first housing and forming an exterior of the electronic device, and a buffer member disposed adjacent to an edge portion of the rear cover. When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are disposed to face each other (e.g., face each other), the rear cover and the protective member may be configured to contact each other by the buffer member.

[0007] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a multi-foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing, a first hinge structure disposed between the first housing and the second housing and rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, a second hinge structure disposed between the second housing and the third housing and rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing, a flexible display disposed at a front side (or side) of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, a protective member disposed at an edge area of ​​the flexible display, a rear cover disposed at a rear side (or side) of the first housing and forming an exterior of the electronic device, and a buffer member disposed adjacent to an edge portion of the rear cover. When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are disposed to face each other (e.g., face each other), the buffer member may be configured to cause a portion of the rear cover and the protective member to contact each other.

[0008] The subject-matter of the present disclosure can be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2A is a front view and a side view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2b is a rear view showing an unfolded state of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3A is a perspective view showing the front of an electronic device in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 3b is a perspective view showing the rear side of the electronic device in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 3c is a top view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3D is a projection view showing a flexible display in a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing specific components mounted within the electronic device.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the rear cover and the buffer member of an electronic device separated according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a portion of a state in which a rear cover and a buffer member of an electronic device are combined, according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a rear cover and a buffer member disposed in a first housing of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a rear cover and a buffer member disposed in a first housing of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S1) of the cross-sectional view.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line B-B' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S2) of the cross-sectional view.

[0024] FIG. 12A is a rear view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 12b is an enlarged view of an area (S3) of the electronic device of FIG. 12a, according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 12c is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S4) of the cross-sectional view.

[0027] FIG. 12d is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line B-B' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S5) of the cross-sectional view.

[0028] FIG. 13A is a rear view of a portion of a first housing of an electronic device, according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 13b is an enlarged perspective view of an edge portion of the first housing of Figure 13a.

[0030] FIG. 13c is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' and an enlarged view of an area (S6) of the cross-sectional view, according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 14A is a rear view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 14b is an enlarged perspective view of an area of ​​the rear surface and rear cover of the first housing of the electronic device of FIG. 14a.

[0033] FIG. 14c is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S7) of the cross-sectional view.

[0034] FIG. 15A is an enlarged perspective view of a rear surface and an area of ​​a rear cover of the first housing of the electronic device of FIG. 14A, according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 15b is an enlarged view of an area (S8) of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 14c according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 16A is an enlarged perspective view of a rear surface and an area of ​​a rear cover of the first housing of the electronic device of FIG. 14A, according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 16b is an enlarged view of a rear cover corner area of ​​FIG. 16a according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 17A is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 17b is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' and an enlarged view of an area (S6) of the cross-sectional view, according to one embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 18A is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 18b is an enlarged view of an area (S7) of the electronic device of FIG. 18a, according to one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 18c is an enlarged perspective view of an area (S7) of the electronic device of FIG. 18a, according to one embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 19A is an enlarged view of an area (S7) of the electronic device of FIG. 18A, according to one embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 19b is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S8) of the cross-sectional view.

[0046] FIG. 21A is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 21b is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the front and one area (S9) of the third housing of the electronic device of FIG. 21a, according to one embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 21C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the electronic device of FIG. 21A in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 22A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the electronic device of FIG. 21A in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 22b is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the electronic device of FIG. 21a in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0051] Electronic devices according to the 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, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments disclosed in this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0052] The embodiments and terminology used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to 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.

[0053] In this document, phrases such as "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 each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish the corresponding component from other corresponding components and do not limit the corresponding components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second) 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.

[0054] 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).

[0055] According to one embodiment, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and arranged in other components. According to one embodiment, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to one embodiment, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0056] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may have at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)) omitted, or one or more other components added. In one embodiment, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0058] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0059] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself where artificial intelligence is performed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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).

[0062] 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).

[0063] 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.

[0064] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external device (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a hall area program device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0065] 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).

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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).

[0069] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0070] 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.

[0071] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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).

[0074] 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.

[0075] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. In one embodiment, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0076] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0077] 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)).

[0078] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0079] FIG. 2A is a front view and a side view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0080] FIG. 2b is a rear view showing an unfolded state of the electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0081] FIG. 3A is a perspective view showing the front of an electronic device in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0082] FIG. 3b is a perspective view showing the rear side of the electronic device in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0083] FIG. 3c is a top view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0084] FIG. 3D is a projection view showing a flexible display in a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0085] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are diagrams illustrating an unfolded state among folding states of an electronic device (101) (e.g., a multi-foldable electronic device) according to one embodiment.

[0086] FIGS. 3A to 3D are diagrams illustrating a folded state of an electronic device (101) (e.g., a multi-foldable electronic device) according to one embodiment.

[0087] The electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 3D is an example of the electronic device (101) illustrated in FIG. 1 and may be a foldable or bendable electronic device (101).

[0088] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, a spatial coordinate system (or an orthogonal coordinate system) including an X-axis, a Y-axis, or a Z-axis is illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 3D. The X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, or the Z-axis direction is defined or described based on the first housing (210), but is not limited thereto. In describing one embodiment of the present disclosure, the 'first direction and / or second direction' may mean a direction parallel to the Z-axis direction.

[0089] The configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 3D may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1.

[0090] The embodiments of FIGS. 2a to 3d can optionally be combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1 or the embodiments of FIGS. 4 to 22b.

[0091] Referring to FIGS. 2A to 3D, the electronic device (101) may include a housing (201) or a flexible or foldable display (hereinafter, “flexible display (203)”) disposed in a space formed by the housing (201) (e.g., display module (160) of FIG. 1).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may be defined and / or referred to as a foldable housing (201), a multi foldable housing (201), or a deformable housing (201).

[0093] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A and 2B), the side (or side) on which the flexible display (203) is disposed (or the side of the flexible display (203) that is visible from the outside of the electronic device (101)) may be defined as the front side (201a) of the electronic device (101). When the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state, the side (or side) opposite to the front side (201a) may be defined as the back side (201b) of the electronic device (101). Additionally, the side surrounding the space between the front side (201a) and the back side (201b) may be defined as the side surface of the electronic device (101).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), a first hinge structure (240), and / or a second hinge structure (250). Considering that the housing (201) is manufactured in component units, it may be referred to as a foldable housing component. For example, the first housing (210) may be referred to as a first housing component, the second housing (220) may be referred to as a second housing component, and the third housing (230) may be referred to as a third housing component. The first hinge structure (240) may be defined and / or referred to as a first hinge assembly or a first in-folding hinge. The second hinge structure (250) may be defined and / or referred to as a second hinge assembly or a second in-folding hinge.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) may be connected to the first housing (210) or the second housing (220). The second housing (220) may be rotatably connected to the first housing (210) via the first hinge structure (240). According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (250) may be connected to the second housing (220) or the third housing (230). The third housing (230) may be rotatably connected to the second housing (220) via the second hinge structure (250).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a sensor region. The sensor region may be disposed on the housing (201). A light sensor and / or an image sensor may be disposed in the sensor region. The light sensor may detect the amount of light surrounding the electronic device (101), and the image sensor may convert light incident through a camera lens into a digital signal. The light sensor and the image sensor may be visually exposed to the flexible display (203). According to one embodiment, the light sensor and the image sensor may not be visually exposed. For example, the camera may be configured as an under display camera (UDC). Pixels in an area of ​​the flexible display (203) corresponding to the position of the UDC may be configured differently from pixels in other areas, so that the image sensor and / or the camera may not be visually exposed.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be connected to a first hinge structure (240). The first housing (210) may include a first front (or side) facing a first direction (e.g., the +Z direction of FIG. 2a) or a first rear (or side) facing a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the -Z direction of FIG. 2b). The second housing (220) may be connected to the first hinge structure (240). The second housing (220) may include a second front (or side) facing a first direction (e.g., the +Z direction of FIG. 2a) or a second rear (or side) facing a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the -Z direction of FIG. 2b).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) can rotate relative to the second housing (220) about the first hinge structure (240). The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) can provide a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3D) or an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first front (or side) of the first housing (210) can face the second front (or side) of the second housing (220). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first rear (or side) of the first housing (210) can face the opposite direction of the second rear (or side) of the second housing (220). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an unfolded state, the first front (or side) of the first housing (210) may face in the same direction as the second front (or side) of the second housing (220). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an unfolded state, the first rear (or side) of the first housing (210) may face in the same direction as the second rear (or side) of the second housing (220).

[0099] In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be connected to the second hinge structure (250). The third housing (230) may be connected to the second hinge structure (250). The third housing (230) may include a third front (or side) facing a first direction (e.g., the +Z direction of FIG. 2a), or a third rear (or side) facing a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the -Z direction of FIG. 2b).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) can rotate with respect to the third housing (230) about the second hinge structure (250). The second housing (220) and the third housing (230) can provide a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3D) or an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B). The folded state of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) can be defined as a state in which the first and second housings (210, 220) are additionally folded to the third housing (230) based on a folded state (e.g., primary folding) of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0101] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the second front (or side) of the second housing (220) may face the third front (or side) of the third housing (230). For example, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the second front (or side) of the second housing (220) may face the third front (or side) of the third housing (230) with the first housing (210) interposed therebetween. When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the second rear surface (or side) of the second housing (220) may face the opposite direction from the third rear surface (or side) of the third housing (230). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in an unfolded state, the second front (or side) of the second housing (220) may face in the same direction as the third front (or side) of the third housing (230). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in an unfolded state, the second rear (or side) of the second housing (220) may face in the same direction as the third rear (or side) of the third housing (230).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first-first side surface (211), a first-second side surface (212), a first-third side surface (213), or a first-fourth side surface (214). The side surfaces of the first housing (210) may be defined and / or referred to as edge portions, side walls, or side portions of the first housing (210). The side surfaces of the first housing (210) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the first housing (210) between the first front surface (or side) and the first rear surface (or side).

[0103] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second-first side (221), a second-second side (222), a second-third side (223), or a second-fourth side (224). The side surfaces of the second housing (220) may be defined and / or referred to as edge portions, side walls, or side portions of the second housing (220). The side surfaces of the second housing (220) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the second housing (220) between the second front (or side) and the second rear (or side). The second-first side (221) of the second housing (220) may be referred to as one side of the second housing (220).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third-first side (231), a third-second side (232), a third-third side (233), or a third-fourth side (234). The side surfaces of the third housing (230) may be defined and / or referred to as edge portions, side walls, or side portions of the third housing (230). The side surfaces of the third housing (230) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the third housing (230) between the third front (or side) and the third rear (or side).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the first-first side (211) of the first housing (210) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to a folding axis of the first hinge structure (240) between the first front (or side) and the first rear (or side). The first-second side (212) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to the first-first side (211). The first-third side (213) may connect the upper end of the first-first side (211) and the upper end of the first-second side (212). The first-third side (213) may be defined and / or referred to as an upper side of the first housing (210). The first-fourth side (214) may connect the lower end of the first-first side (211) and the lower end of the first-second side (212). The first-fourth side (214) may be defined and / or referred to as the lower side of the first housing (210). The first-fourth side (214) may be spaced apart and arranged parallel to the first-third side (213). The first-third side (213) and / or the first-fourth side (214) may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the first-first side (211) and / or the first-second side (212). The first-second side (212) may be connected to the second-first side (221) via the first hinge structure (240).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the second-first side (221) of the second housing (220) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to the folding axis of the second hinge structure (250) between the second front (or side) and the second rear (or side). The second-first side (221) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to the second-second side (222). The second-third side (223) may connect the upper end of the second-first side (221) and the upper end of the second-second side (222). The second-third side (223) may be defined and / or referred to as the upper side of the second housing (220). The second-fourth side (224) may connect the lower end of the second-first side (221) and the lower end of the second-second side (222). The second-fourth side (224) may be defined and / or referred to as the lower side of the second housing (220). The second-fourth side (224) may be spaced apart from and arranged in parallel with the second-third side (223). The second-third side (223) and / or the second-fourth side (224) may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the second-first side (221) and / or the second-second side (222). The second-first side (221) may be connected to the first-second side (212) via the first hinge structure (240). The second-second side (222) may be connected to the third-first side (231) via the second hinge structure (250).

[0107] According to one embodiment, the third-first side (231) of the third housing (230) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to a folding axis of the third hinge structure between the third front (or side) and the third rear (or side). The third-first side (231) may be spaced apart from and disposed parallel to the third-second side (232). The third-third side (233) may connect the upper end of the third-first side (231) and the upper end of the third-second side (232). The third-third side (233) may be defined and / or referred to as the upper side of the third housing (230). The third-fourth side (234) may connect the lower end of the third-first side (231) and the lower end of the third-second side (232). The third-fourth side (234) may be defined and / or referred to as the lower side of the third housing (230). The third-fourth side (234) may be spaced apart and arranged parallel to the third-third side (233). The third-third side (233) and / or the third-fourth side (234) may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the third-first side (231) and / or the third-second side (232). The third-first side (231) may be connected to the second-second side (222) via the second hinge structure (250).

[0108] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) is folded relative to the second housing (220) about the first hinge structure (240) (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3d), the first-first side (211) can be brought closer to the second-second side (222). When the first housing (210) is unfolded relative to the second housing (220) about the first hinge structure (240) (e.g., FIGS. 2a to 2b), the first-first side (211) can be moved away from the second-second side (222).

[0109] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) is folded relative to the third housing (230) about the second hinge structure (250) (e.g., FIGS. 3a to 3d), the second-first side (221) can be brought closer to the third-second side (232). When the second housing (220) is unfolded relative to the third housing (230) about the second hinge structure (250) (e.g., FIGS. 2a to 2b), the second-first side (221) can be moved away from the third-second side (232).

[0110] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a fully folded state, the first front (or side) and the second front (or side) may face each other, and the first-first side (211) and the second-second side (222) may be disposed adjacent to each other. According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be disposed on both sides with the first hinge structure (240) as the center, and may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the first hinge structure (240). As described below, the angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may vary depending on whether the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an unfolded state, a folded state, or a partially unfolded (or partially folded) intermediate state.

[0111] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a fully folded state, the second front (or side) and the third front (or side) may face each other with the first housing (210) interposed therebetween, and the second-first side (221) and the third-second side (232) may be disposed adjacently. According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may be disposed on both sides with the second hinge structure (250) as the center, and may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the second hinge structure (250). As described below, the angle or distance between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may vary depending on whether the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in an unfolded state, a folded state, or a partially unfolded (or partially folded) intermediate state.

[0112] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may together form a recess for accommodating the flexible display (203). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may be formed of a metallic material or a non-metallic material having a rigidity of a selected size to support the flexible display (203). At least a portion formed of the metallic material may provide a ground plane of the electronic device (101) and may be electrically connected to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board disposed inside the housing (201).

[0113] According to one embodiment, a protective member (216, 226, 236) may be arranged on the periphery of the flexible display (203). The protective member may be formed integrally with the side surfaces of the foldable housing (201) or as a separate structure. The flexible display (203) may not be adhered to the side surfaces of the foldable housing (201) and / or the protective member. A gap may be formed between the flexible display (203) and the protective member. The protective member may be configured to cover the internal structure of the electronic device (101) from the outside or protect the internal structure of the electronic device (101) from external impact. According to one embodiment, the protective member may be configured to cover the wiring arranged in the flexible display (203) from the outside or protect it from external impact. The above protective member may be defined and / or referred to as a deco member, a peripheral member, or a rim member. The above protective member may be formed of, but is not limited to, a non-metallic material.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the protective member (216, 226, 236) may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), or a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230). The first protective member (216) may cover a first edge portion of the flexible display (203), the second protective member (226) may cover a second edge portion of the flexible display (203), and the third protective member (236) may cover a third edge portion of the flexible display (203).

[0115] In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first rear cover (215). The first rear cover (215) may be disposed on one side of the first hinge structure (240) at the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular edge. The edge of the first rear cover (215) may be wrapped by side surfaces of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the first rear cover (215) may include a cover made of a rear cover material.

[0116] In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second rear cover (225). The second rear cover (225) may be disposed on the other side of the first hinge structure (240) or on one side of the second hinge structure (250) on the rear side (201b) of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular edge. The edge of the second rear cover (225) may be wrapped by the side surfaces of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the second rear cover (225) may include a display (or display module) including a display panel and / or a circuit board.

[0117] In one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third rear cover (235). The third rear cover (235) may be positioned on the other side of the second hinge structure (250) at the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (101) and may have, for example, a substantially rectangular edge. The edge of the third rear cover (235) may be wrapped by the side surfaces of the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the third rear cover (235) may include a cover made of a rear cover material.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (215) and the second rear cover (225) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the first hinge structure (240). The second rear cover (225) and the third rear cover (235) may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the second hinge structure (250). However, the first rear cover (215), the second rear cover (225), and the third rear cover (235) do not necessarily have mutually symmetrical shapes, and in one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include the first rear cover (215), the second rear cover (225), and the third rear cover (235) of various shapes. In one embodiment, the first rear cover (215) may be formed integrally with the first housing (210), the second rear cover (225) may be formed integrally with the second housing (220), and the third rear cover (235) may be formed integrally with the third housing (230).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (215), the second rear cover (225), the third rear cover (235), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may form a space in which various components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a printed circuit board or a battery) may be placed. According to one embodiment, one or more components may be placed or visually exposed on the rear surface (201b) of the electronic device (101). One or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the third rear cover (235). In one embodiment, the sensor may include a proximity sensor.

[0120] According to one embodiment, a front camera disposed on the front of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a camera disposed in the third housing (230) and exposed through the third display area (A3)) or a rear camera (205) exposed through the third rear cover (235) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, and / or image signal processors. The flash may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In one embodiment, two or more lenses (infrared camera, wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface (or side) of the electronic device (101).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) or the second hinge structure (250) may be covered by a portion of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), or the third housing (230), or may be exposed to the outside, depending on the state of the electronic device (101) (unfolded state, intermediate state, or folded state).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the folded state (e.g., secondary folding) of the electronic device (101) may be a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded relative to the third housing (230), after the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded. Accordingly, the second hinge structure (250) may have a wider width than the first hinge structure (240).

[0123] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state (e.g., a fully unfolded state), the first hinge structure (240) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and not exposed, and at least a portion of the second hinge structure (250) may be exposed to the outside between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230).

[0124] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A to 3D , when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), at least a portion of the first hinge structure (240) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and at least a portion of the second hinge structure (250) may be exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0125] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a first intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the first hinge structure (240) may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than that in the state where the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are completely folded. According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) may include a curved surface (or side).

[0126] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a second intermediate state where they are folded at a certain angle, the second hinge structure (250) may be partially exposed to the outside between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). However, in this case, the exposed area may be less than that in the state where the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are completely folded. According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (250) may include a curved surface (or side).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may be placed on a space formed by the housing (201). For example, the flexible display (203) may be mounted on a recess formed by the housing (201) and may be viewed from the outside through the front surface (201a) (e.g., the first front surface, the second front surface, and / or the third front surface) of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may constitute a majority of the front surface (201a) (e.g., the first front surface, the second front surface, and / or the third front surface) of the electronic device (101). Accordingly, the front surface (210a) (e.g., the first front surface, the second front surface, and / or the third front surface) of the electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (203), a portion of a first housing (210) adjacent to the flexible display (203), a portion of a second housing (220) adjacent to the flexible display (203), and a portion of a third housing (230) adjacent to the flexible display (203). The back surface (201b) of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the first back surface, the second back surface, and / or the third back surface) may include a first back cover (215), a portion of a first housing (210) adjacent to the first back cover (215), a second back cover (225), a portion of a second housing (220) adjacent to the second back cover (225), a first back cover (215), a portion of a first housing (210) adjacent to the first back cover (215).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may be disposed on the front surface of each of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may refer to a display in which at least a portion of the flexible display (203) can be transformed into a flat or curved surface (or side). For example, the flexible display (203) may be configured to be at least partially folded or at least partially unfolded.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may include a first display area (A1), a second display area (A2), a third display area (A3), a first folding area (A4), or a second folding area (A5). The first display area (A1) may be arranged on one side of the first folding area (A4), and the second display area (A2) may be arranged on the other side of the first folding area (A4). The second display area (A2) may be arranged on one side of the second folding area (A5), and the third display area (A3) may be arranged on the other side of the second folding area (A5).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) may be disposed on the first housing (210), the second display area (A2) may be disposed on the second housing (220), and the third display area (A3) may be disposed on the third housing (230). According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) may be supported by the first housing (210), the second display area (A2) may be supported by the second housing (220), and the third display area (A3) may be supported by the third housing (230). According to one embodiment, the first folding area (A4) may connect the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) and may be disposed on the first hinge structure (240). The second folding area (A5) connects the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3) and can be placed on the second hinge structure (250). The area division of the flexible display (203) illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B is exemplary, and the display may be divided into multiple areas (for example, six or more or three) depending on the structure or function.

[0132] In one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to a touch panel having a touch detection circuit and a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch. For example, the flexible display (203) may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to an electromagnetic induction panel that detects a stylus pen using an electromagnetic resonance (EMR) method, as an example of a touch panel.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) may have an overall symmetrical shape centered around the first folding area (A4). The second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3) may have an overall symmetrical shape centered around the second folding area (A5).

[0134] Hereinafter, the operation of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and the operation of each region of the flexible display (203) according to the state of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) (e.g., folded state, unfolded state, or first intermediate state) will be described.

[0135] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B), the first front surface of the first housing (210) and the second front surface of the second housing (220) may be arranged to form an angle of 180 degrees and face the same direction. The surface of the first display area (A1) and the surface of the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) may form an angle of 180 degrees with each other and face the same direction (e.g., toward the front of the electronic device (101)). At this time, the first folding area (A4) may form the same plane as the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2).

[0136] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3D), the first front (or side) of the first housing (210) and the second front (or side) of the second housing (220) may be arranged to face each other (e.g., face each other). For example, the first rear cover (215) and the second rear cover (225) may face each other in opposite directions. The surface of the first display area (A1) and the surface of the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) may face each other (e.g., face each other). For example, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first display area (A1) may be arranged to face the -Z direction, and the second display area (A2) may be arranged to face the +Z direction, which is the opposite direction to the -Z direction. For example, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, and the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the surface of the third display area (A3) may face the inside of the electronic device (101), and the surface of the third display area (A3) may face the first rear cover (215). When the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, at least a portion of the first folding area (A4) may form a curved surface (or side) having a predetermined curvature. The curved surface (or side) of the first folding area (A4) can be positioned so as to face (e.g., face) the interior of the electronic device (101).

[0137] According to one embodiment, when the state of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) is a first intermediate state, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to each other. The surface of the first display area (A1) and the surface of the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) may form an angle that is smaller than an angle in an unfolded state and larger than an angle in a folded state. At least a portion of the first folding area (A4) may form a curved surface (or side) having a certain curvature. For example, the radius of curvature of the curved surface (or side) of the first folding area (A4) in the first intermediate state may be larger than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first folding area (A4) in the folded state.

[0138] Hereinafter, the operation of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) and the operation of each area of ​​the flexible display (203) according to the state of the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) (e.g., folded state, unfolded state, or second intermediate state) will be described.

[0139] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in an unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B), the second front surface of the second housing (220) and the third front surface of the third housing (230) may be arranged to form an angle of 180 degrees and face the same direction. The surface of the second display area (A2) and the surface of the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) may form an angle of 180 degrees with each other and face the same direction (e.g., the front direction of the electronic device (101)). At this time, the second folding area (A5) may form the same plane as the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3).

[0140] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3D), the second rear surface (or side) of the second housing (220) and the third rear surface (or side) of the third housing (230) may face in opposite directions. For example, the second rear cover (225) may be arranged to face the +Z direction, and the third rear cover (235) may be arranged to face (e.g., face) the -Z direction. For example, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, and the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state, the first rear cover (215) and the second rear cover (225) may face in opposite directions, and the second rear cover (225) may face the outside of the electronic device (101). When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the surface of the second display area (A2) and the surface of the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) can be arranged to face each other (e.g., face each other) with the first housing (210) interposed therebetween. When the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a folded state, at least a portion of the second folding area (A5) can form a curved surface (or side) having a predetermined curvature. The curved surface (or side) of the second folding area (A5) can be arranged to face (e.g., face) the inside of the electronic device (101).

[0141] According to one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are in a second intermediate state, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) may be arranged at a certain angle with respect to each other. The surface of the second display area (A2) and the surface of the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) may form an angle that is smaller than an angle in an unfolded state and larger than an angle in a folded state. At least a portion of the second folding area (A5) may form a curved surface (or side) having a certain curvature. For example, the radius of curvature of the curved surface (or side) of the second folding area (A5) in the second intermediate state may be larger than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the second folding area (A5) in the folded state.

[0142] According to one embodiment, a fully folded state of the electronic device (101) may be defined as a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded, and at the same time, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are folded. A fully unfolded state of the electronic device (101) may be defined as a state in which the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are unfolded, and at the same time, the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are unfolded.

[0143] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3D), the first folding area (A4) located on the first hinge structure (240) may not be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). The second folding area (A5) located on the second hinge structure (250) may be disposed inside the electronic device (101) and may not be exposed to the outside.

[0144] In one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) and the second hinge structure (250) may be defined and / or referred to as an in-folding hinge (250) that does not expose a portion of the flexible display (203) to the outside when folded. In one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) may be provided as a first in-folding hinge, and the second hinge structure (250) may be provided as a second in-folding hinge.

[0145] According to one embodiment, a state of the electronic device (101) that is fully unfolded (e.g., FIGS. 2A and 2B) may be defined and / or referred to as a first state of the electronic device (101), and a state of the electronic device (101) that is fully folded (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3D) may be defined and / or referred to as a second state of the electronic device (101).

[0146] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (240) can rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) with respect to each other. The first hinge structure (240) can be connected to the first-second side (212) of the first housing (210) and the second-first side (221) of the second housing (220).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (250) can rotatably connect the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) with respect to each other. The second hinge structure (250) can be connected to the second-second side (222) of the second housing (220) and the third-first side (231) of the third housing (230). The second hinge structure (250) can have a wider width than the first hinge structure (240) in order to enable the first and second housings (210, 220) that are already folded with respect to the third housing (230) to rotate.

[0148] According to one embodiment, when the state of the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3D), the rear camera (205) may face (e.g., face away from) the surface of the first display area (A1). The rear camera (205) may face (e.g., face) the outside of the electronic device (101) when the state of the electronic device (101) is in a completely folded state (e.g., FIGS. 3A to 3D) or when the state of the electronic device (101) is in a completely unfolded state (e.g., FIGS. 2A to 2B).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the conductive portions of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may serve as an antenna radiator of the electronic device (101). For example, the conductive portions of the foldable housing (201) may be electrically connected to a communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1). The electronic device (101) may be configured to transmit and receive signals with an external electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic devices (102, 104) of FIG. 1) through the conductive portions of the housing (201). The communication module (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1) of the electronic device (101) may be disposed on at least one circuit board (e.g., at least one circuit board (206) of FIG. 5).

[0150] According to one embodiment, with respect to the width direction of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the X-axis direction of FIG. 3c), the first housing (210) may have a first width (w1), the second housing (220) may have a second width (w2), and the third housing (230) may have a third width (w3). The first width (w1) of the first housing (210) may be smaller (or narrower) than the second width (w2) of the second housing (220). The third width (w3) of the third housing (230) may be larger (or wider) than the second width (w2) of the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the third width (w3) of the third housing (230) may be larger (or wider) than the first width (w1) of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may each have different widths. In one embodiment, the first width (w1) of the first housing (210) may be substantially the same as the third width (w3) of the third housing (230).

[0151] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0152] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment, showing specific components mounted within the electronic device.

[0153] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, an electronic device (101) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 3D) may include a foldable housing (201), a flexible display (203), a rear camera (205), at least one conductive connecting member (204), at least one battery (207), or at least one circuit board (206).

[0154] The configuration of the foldable housing (201), the flexible display (203), or the rear camera (205) of FIGS. 4 and 5 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the housing (201), the flexible display (203), or the rear camera (205) of FIGS. 2A to 3D.

[0155] The embodiments of FIGS. 4 and 5 can optionally be combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3d or the embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 22b.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include various electronic components (or electrical components) arranged in the internal or external space of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). Various electronic components include, for example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120) of FIG. 1), a memory (e.g., a memory (130) of FIG. 1), an input module (e.g., an input module (150) of FIG. 1), an audio output module (e.g., an audio output module (155) of FIG. 1), a flexible display (203) (e.g., a display module (160) of FIG. 1), an audio module (e.g., an audio module (170) of FIG. 1), a sensor (e.g., a sensor module (176) of FIG. 1), an interface (e.g., an interface (177) of FIG. 1), a connection terminal (e.g., a connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1 or a connection terminal (289) of FIG. 2), a haptic module (e.g., a haptic module (179) of FIG. 1), a camera module (e.g., a camera module (180) of FIG. 1), a power management module (e.g., a power management module (188) of FIG. 1), at least one It may include at least one of a battery (207) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1), a communication module (e.g., communication module (190) of FIG. 1), a subscriber identification module (e.g., subscriber identification module (196) of FIG. 1), or an antenna module (e.g., antenna module (197) of FIG. 1). The electronic components may be appropriately separated and arranged in the internal or external space of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). In the electronic device (101), at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. In addition, some of these components may be integrated into one component.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) includes a first housing (210) (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2A to 3D), a second housing (220) (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2A to 3D), a third housing (230) (e.g., the third housing (230) of FIGS. 2A to 3D), a first protective member (216) (e.g., the first protective member (216) of FIGS. 2A to 2B), a second protective member (226) (e.g., the second protective member (226) of FIGS. 2A to 2B), a third protective member (236) (e.g., the third protective member (236) of FIGS. 2A to 2B), a first rear cover (215) (e.g., the first rear cover (215) of FIGS. 2A to 3D), and a second rear cover. It may include a cover (225) (e.g., the second rear cover (225) of FIGS. 2A to 3D), a third rear cover (235) (e.g., the third rear cover (235) of FIGS. 2A to 3D), a first hinge structure (240) (e.g., the first hinge structure (240) of FIGS. 2A to 3D), or a second hinge structure (250) (e.g., the second hinge structure (250) of FIGS. 2A to 3D).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first plate (217). One surface (or side) of the first plate (217) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIGS. 4 and 5) may support a flexible display (203) (e.g., the first display area (A1) in FIG. 2A). At least one battery (207), at least one circuit board (206), or electrical / electronic components may be arranged on the other surface (or side) of the first plate (217) (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction in FIGS. 4 and 5). The first plate (217) may be defined and / or referred to as a first bracket, a first support plate, or a first support member. The first plate (217) may be connected to side surfaces of the first housing (210).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second plate (227). One surface (or side) of the second plate (227) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIGS. 4 and 5) may support the flexible display (203) (e.g., the second display area (A2) in FIG. 2A). At least one battery (207), at least one circuit board (206), or electrical / electronic components may be arranged on the other surface (or side) of the second plate (227) (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction in FIGS. 4 and 5). The second plate (227) may be defined and / or referred to as a second bracket, a second support plate, or a second support member. The second plate (227) may be connected to side surfaces of the second housing (220).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third plate (237). One surface (or side) of the third plate (237) (e.g., a surface facing the +Z direction in FIGS. 4 and 5) may support the flexible display (203) (e.g., the third display area (A3) in FIG. 2A). At least one battery (207), at least one circuit board (206), or electrical / electronic components may be arranged on the other surface (or side) of the third plate (237) (e.g., a surface facing the -Z direction in FIGS. 4 and 5). The third plate (237) may be defined and / or referred to as a third bracket, a third support plate, or a third support member. The third plate (237) may be connected to side surfaces of the third housing (230).

[0161] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one battery (207) to supply and store power required for operation to electronic components. The at least one battery (207) may be provided as a plurality of batteries each disposed in a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). According to one embodiment, the battery (207) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the first plate (217) and the second plate (227) can be folded or unfolded relative to each other by a first hinge structure (240) formed corresponding to the first folding area (A4) of the flexible display (203) (e.g., the first folding area (A4) of FIG. 2A). The second plate (227) and the third plate (237) can be folded or unfolded relative to each other by a second hinge structure (250) formed corresponding to the second folding area (A5) of the flexible display (203) (e.g., the second folding area (A5) of FIG. 2A).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) can be disposed in a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). According to one embodiment, the first display area (A1) (e.g., the first display area (A1) of FIG. 2A) can be disposed on the first housing (210) (or the first plate (217)), the second display area (A2) (e.g., the second display area (A2) of FIG. 2A) can be disposed on the second housing (220) (or the second plate (227)), and the third display area (A3) (e.g., the third display area (A3) of FIG. 2A) can be disposed on the third housing (230) (or the third plate (237)). According to one embodiment, the first folding area (A4) (e.g., the first folding area (A4) of FIG. 2A) connects the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) and may be disposed on the first hinge structure (240). The second folding area (A5) (e.g., the second folding area (A5) of FIG. 2A) connects the second display area (A2) and the third display area (A3) and may be disposed on the second hinge structure (250).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one circuit board (206). The at least one circuit board (206) may include a printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), or a rigid-flexible PCB (RF-PCB). The at least one circuit board (206) may be provided as a plurality of circuit boards arranged in the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). The at least one circuit board (206) may be arranged between the plates (217, 227, 237) and the first, second, and third rear covers (215, 225, 235), but is not limited thereto.

[0165] According to one embodiment, signals of a processor for implementing various functions and operations of an electronic device (101) may be transmitted to electronic components through various conductive lines and / or connectors formed on at least one circuit board.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (203) may include a display panel. The flexible display (203) may be at least partially foldable or unfoldable. The flexible display (203) may be supported by a first plate (217), a second plate (227), and / or a third plate (237).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one conductive connection member (204). The at least one conductive connection member (204) may be configured to electrically connect a plurality of circuit boards, or to electrically connect at least one circuit board (206) and electrical / electronic components. The at least one conductive connection member (204) may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) or a flexible flat cable (FFC). At least a portion of the at least one conductive connection member (204) may be disposed on the first hinge structure (240) or the second hinge structure (250). For example, the at least one conductive connection member (204) may be disposed to cross the first hinge structure (240) or the second hinge structure (250).

[0168] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a rear member (not shown) (or rear case). In one embodiment, the rear member may be disposed within a housing (201) (e.g., a third housing (230)). In one embodiment, the rear member may accommodate at least one antenna.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an antenna (not shown). The antennas (275a, 275b) may include, for example, an ultra-wide band (UWB) antenna, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

[0170] In one embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a portion or combination of the housing (201). For example, the antenna may include a communication antenna that is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the electronic device (101) and forms at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101).

[0171] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the rear cover and the buffer member of an electronic device separated according to one embodiment.

[0172] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a portion of a state in which a rear cover and a buffer member of an electronic device are combined, according to one embodiment.

[0173] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a rear cover and a buffer member disposed in a first housing of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0174] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a rear cover and a buffer member disposed in a first housing of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0175] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIGS. 2A to 5), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIGS. 2A to 5), and a third housing (e.g., the third housing (230) of FIGS. 2A to 5). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (203) of FIGS. 2A to 5) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a first protective member (e.g., the first protective member (216) of FIGS. 2A to 5) disposed on the first housing (210) and covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203).

[0176] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) covering the rear (or side) of the first housing (210) and a buffer member (400) arranged along an edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300).

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the buffer member (400) may be arranged along the edge of the first housing (210). The buffer member (400) may be arranged to surround an edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) (e.g., an edge and one side adjacent to the edge (e.g., a side facing the -Z-axis direction), another side (e.g., a side facing the +Z-axis direction), and / or a side (e.g., a side facing the X-axis, Y-axis direction)).

[0178] The configuration of the rear cover (300) of FIGS. 6 to 9 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the first rear cover (215) of FIGS. 2a to 5.

[0179] The embodiments of FIGS. 6 to 9 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 5 and the embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 22b.

[0180] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may form a part of the overall appearance of the electronic device (101). A first display area (e.g., the first display area (A1) of FIG. 2A) of the flexible display (203) may be arranged on a front side (e.g., the +Z-axis direction) of the first housing (210), and a rear cover (300) may be arranged on a rear side (e.g., the -Z-axis direction) of the first housing (210). Hereinafter, one side facing the +Z-axis may be defined as at least one of a front surface, a front side, or a front end, and the other side facing the -Z-axis may be defined as at least one of a rear surface, a rear side, or a rear end.

[0181] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first support plate (217) on which electronic components are mounted, and a first side wall (218) extending from the first support plate (217) (e.g., the first plate (217) of FIG. 5) and forming a side of the first housing (210). The first side wall (218) may protrude from an edge portion of the first support plate (217) toward the front (or side) and / or the rear (or side) of the first support plate (217). For example, the first side wall (218) may extend substantially vertically from the first support plate (217).

[0182] According to one embodiment, the rear cover (300) is a rear cover that protects the internal space of the first housing (210) and forms the exterior of the electronic device (101), and may be made of various materials. For example, the rear cover (300) may include at least one of a decorative plate, glass, plastic, metal, ceramic, leather, or fabric.

[0183] In one embodiment, the rear cover (300) may be a back glass comprising glass. The glass-based rear cover (300) can be easily used as a cover for the electronic device (101) by providing wireless charging support, a premium design, improved communication signals, and / or efficient heat dissipation. For example, wireless charging technology can transmit power using electromagnetic induction or magnetic resonance. In this case, metal can interfere with such power transmission (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but the glass-based rear cover (300) does not interfere with electromagnetic transmission, thereby supporting wireless charging. For example, the glass-based rear cover (300) can provide a more luxurious aesthetic, shiny finish, and soft feel than metal or plastic. For example, while metal covers can weaken communication signals such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and LTE, the glass-based rear cover (300) has less of an impact on communication signals, thereby helping to maintain communication quality. For example, a rear cover (300) made of glass can dissipate heat more effectively than metal, so that heat inside the electronic device can be easily dissipated to the outside.

[0184] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., see FIGS. 3A to 3D , e-type), the rear side (or side) of the first housing (210) may be arranged to face the front side of the third housing (230). For example, the first housing (210) and the rear cover (300) may be arranged to face (e.g., face) the third display area (e.g., the third display area (A3) of FIG. 2A) and the third protective member (e.g., the third protective member (236) of FIGS. 2A and 2B) of the flexible display (203) facing the front side (or side) of the third housing (230). For example, the third protective member (236) may have a shape that protrudes outward in the front direction from the third housing (230) and the third display area (A3). For example, the third protective member (236) may have a shape that protrudes forward more than the third housing (230) and the third display area (A3). The third protective member (236) may be in direct contact with the facing first housing (210) and the rear cover (300) so as to prevent impact (e.g., damage to the outer surface due to friction and noise (squeak noise) due to friction) from occurring, and may be in contact with a buffer member (400) positioned to surround the edge of the rear cover (300). When the third protective member (236) is in contact with the buffer member (400), the impact may be absorbed (e.g., mitigated).

[0185] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may be disposed on the first housing (210) to cover the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300). According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may be disposed along the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) to protect the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300). The buffer member (400) may be formed in the shape of a single closed loop, or may be formed in multiple pieces that are separately disposed on the first housing (210).

[0186] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may be configured to surround an edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300). For example, the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) may include an edge of the rear cover (300) and an adjacent portion thereof. For example, the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) may be at least one of a side surface (330) of the rear cover (300), a portion of one side surface (310) extending in the -Z-axis direction from the side surface (330), or a portion of the other side surface (320) extending in the +Z-axis direction from the side surface (330).

[0187] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may be manufactured including an elastic material. For example, the buffer member (400) may include at least one of rubber, silicone, urethane, elastomer, spandex, or foam.

[0188] According to one embodiment, the impact-absorbing member (cushioning member, buffer member, or damping element) (400) may be named at least one of an edge member, a shield member, a cover member, an exterior member, a guide member, a sealing member, a closure member, a packing member, or a waterproof member, and the expression of the member may be replaced with at least one of an element, a part, a portion, or a component.

[0189] According to one embodiment, when looking at the rear (or side) of the first housing (210), the buffer member (400) may be arranged to surround all edge portions (301) of the square-shaped rear cover (300). For example, the buffer member (400) may be arranged to entirely surround the upper edge portion (e.g., the edge portion in the +Y-axis direction), the lower edge portion (e.g., the edge portion in the -Y-axis direction), the right edge portion (e.g., the edge portion in the -X-axis direction), and the left edge portion (e.g., the edge portion in the +X-axis direction) of the rear cover (300). The boundary surface (or side) of each edge portion of the rear cover (300) may be formed in a curved shape (or side), and the buffer member (400) may be formed in a curved shape (or side) corresponding thereto.

[0190] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) is exposed to the rear side of the electronic device (101) when the electronic device (101) is unfolded to form the outermost layer, and covers the third display area (A3) when the electronic device (101) is folded and cannot be seen from the outside.

[0191] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the buffer member (400) may include a portion that protrudes outwardly more than one side (10) of the rear cover (300) (e.g., the rear side (e.g., the side facing the -Z axis)). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the buffer member (400) may include a portion that protrudes outwardly more than one side (or side) of the first housing (210) (e.g., an extended portion). For example, at least a portion of the buffer member (400) may include a portion that protrudes outwardly more than a first sidewall (218) of the first housing (210) (e.g., an extended portion) in the rearward direction (e.g., a -Z axis direction).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may include a first buffer portion (410) and a second buffer portion (420) extending from the first buffer portion (410). The first buffer portion (410) may be positioned inside the first housing (210) and may support the buffer member (400) as a whole. The second buffer portion (420) may extend from the first buffer portion (410), form a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (101), and may be disposed between the rear cover (300) and the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210). The second buffer portion (420) may be formed to substantially surround an edge portion (301) of one side (310) of the rear cover (300).

[0193] According to one embodiment, the first buffer portion (410) and the second buffer portion (420) may be made of the same material and may be formed as a monolithic support body or a single piece (or one body). A portion of the monolithic support body (e.g., the second buffer portion (420)) may be exposed to the outside of the first housing (210) and may be structured to seamlessly extend from the first buffer portion (410) to the second buffer portion (420).

[0194] According to one embodiment, the outer side (411) of the first buffer portion (410) (e.g., the side facing the outside of the electronic device (101)) may be formed to be surrounded by the first side wall (218) forming the edge of the first housing (210). The inner side (412) of the first buffer portion (410) (e.g., the side facing the inside of the electronic device (101)) may be arranged to face (e.g., face) the adhesive member (500) and electronic components inside the electronic device (101).

[0195] According to one embodiment, an outer side (421) of a portion of the second buffer portion (420) (e.g., a side facing the outside of the electronic device (101)) may be formed to be surrounded by a first side wall (218) forming an edge of the first housing (210). Another portion of the second buffer portion (420) may be exposed to the outside in a shape that protrudes more than the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210). An inner side (422) of the second buffer portion (420) (e.g., a side facing the inside of the electronic device (101)) may be disposed to face a side surface (330) of the rear cover (300) (and a portion of one side (310) and the other side (320). The inner side (422) of the second buffer portion (420) is arranged to entirely surround the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300), thereby making the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) invisible from the outside. According to one embodiment, when looking toward the rear cover (300), a portion of the second buffer portion (420) may be arranged to overlap a portion of one side (310) of the rear cover (300).

[0196] In one embodiment, the worker may place the buffer member (400) along the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300), and then arrange and mount the combined rear cover (300) and buffer member (400) on the first support plate (217) of the first housing (210). When looking at a cross-section of the combined rear cover (300) and buffer member (400) (e.g., see FIGS. 7 and 8), the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) may be positioned to overlap while pushing the inside of the buffer member (400). For example, the buffer member (400) may include a recess formed along the inside, and the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) may appear to be inserted into the recess.

[0197] According to one embodiment, in order to secure the combined rear cover (300) and buffer member (400) to the first housing (210), an adhesive member (500) may be disposed on the other surface (320) of the rear cover (300) to secure the rear cover (300) to the first support plate (217) of the first housing (210). The adhesive member (500) may be disposed along an adjacent area of ​​an edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300). The adhesive member (500) may be formed in a closed loop shape. The adhesive member (500) may be various materials, such as tape or bonding, for securing the rear cover (300) to the first housing (210).

[0198] According to one embodiment, in order to reinforce the fixation of the combined rear cover (300) and the buffer member (400) to the first housing (210) or to prevent the buffer member (400) from moving, an adhesive member (not shown) may be disposed on one side of the buffer member (400) and may fix the buffer member (400) to the first support plate (217) of the first housing (210). The adhesive member may be disposed on one end of the first buffer portion (410) of the buffer member (400).

[0199] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S1) of the cross-sectional view.

[0200] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line B-B' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S2) of the cross-sectional view.

[0201] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (203) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a protective member covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203). The protective member may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0202] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) covering the rear (or side) of the first housing (210) and a buffer member (400) disposed along an edge of the rear cover (300).

[0203] The components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 10 and 11 may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2A to 9.

[0204] The embodiments of FIGS. 10 and 11 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9 and the embodiments of FIGS. 12a to 22b.

[0205] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., see FIGS. 3A to 3D), the first housing (210) may be positioned between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). The first display area (A1) of the flexible display (203) supported by the first housing (210) may face (e.g., face) the second display area (A2) of the flexible display (203) supported by the second housing (220). The first protective member (216) covering the edge of the first display area (A1) may be placed in contact with the second protective member (226) covering the edge of the second display area (A2). The rear cover (300) positioned toward the rear (or side) of the first housing (210) can face (e.g., face) the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) supported by the third housing (230). The buffer member (400) covering the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) can be positioned in contact with the third protective member (236) covering the edge of the third display area (A3).

[0206] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may be referred to as a foldable housing component, considering that it is manufactured in component units. For example, the first housing (210) may be referred to as a first housing component, the second housing (220) may be referred to as a second housing component, and the third housing (230) may be referred to as a third housing component.

[0207] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236) are arranged to face each other (e.g., face each other), and at least some of them may be in contact with each other. For example, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236) may be in contact with each other as a whole. For example, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236) may be arranged such that only the upper and lower portions (e.g., portions in the +Y-axis and -Y-axis directions) are in contact, and the left and right portions (e.g., portions in the +X-axis and -X-axis directions) are spaced apart from each other.

[0208] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) may include a first buffer portion (410) inserted into the first housing (210), and a second buffer portion (420) extending outwardly (e.g., in the rear direction (-Z-axis direction)) from the first buffer portion (410) and formed to substantially cover an edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300). The second buffer portion (420) of the buffer member (400) may have a shape that protrudes toward the -Z-axis direction more than the outer surface of the rear cover (300) (or the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210)) so as to prevent contact between the rear cover (300) and the third display area (A3) of the third housing (230) when the electronic device (101) is folded. For example, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the rear cover (300) and the third display area (A3) can be maintained in a spaced state due to contact between the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236). For example, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) and the third protective member (236) can be maintained in a spaced state due to contact between the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236).

[0209] According to one embodiment, the second buffer portion (420) of the buffer member (400) includes a first surface (425) facing the rear direction (e.g., -Z-axis direction) of the electronic device (101), and the first surface (425) may include a plane (425a) parallel to one surface (310) of the rear cover (300), and a surface (425b, 425c) inclined toward the rear cover (300) or the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) with respect to the plane (425a).

[0210] According to one embodiment, the first surface (425) of the second buffer portion (420) may be shaped to protrude (e.g., extend) outwardly from the adjacent rear cover (300) and the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210), such that the first surface (425) may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (101). For example, when the electronic device (101) is unfolded, a flat surface (425a) of the first surface (425) of the second buffer portion (420) may be directly exposed to the outside as a contacting surface (or side) of the third protective member (236).

[0211] According to one embodiment, in the first surface (425) of the second buffer portion (420), inclined surfaces (425b, 425c) may be formed at an edge of the second buffer portion (420) so as to seamlessly extend with the rear cover (300) of the electronic device (101) and / or the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210). For example, the first surface (425) may include a flat surface (425a) and a first inclined surface (425b) inclined toward the rear cover (300). For example, the first surface (425) may include a flat surface (425a), a first inclined surface (425b) inclined toward the rear cover (300), and a second inclined surface (425c) inclined toward the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210).

[0212] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236) may be arranged so as not to face each other (e.g., face each other). For example, unlike the upper or lower edge portion (e.g., edge portion in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 10, the third protective member (236) may be arranged so as to be in direct contact with or partially spaced from the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) at the left or right edge portion (e.g., edge portion in the +X-axis or -X-axis direction) of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 11.

[0213] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the buffer member (400) is formed to surround the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) and may be spaced apart from the third display area (A3). However, the structure may be easily designed to be changed so that the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236) are in direct contact, depending on the arrangement relationship between the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) and the arrangement relationship between the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236).

[0214] FIG. 12A is a rear view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0215] FIG. 12b is an enlarged view of an area (S3) of the electronic device of FIG. 12a, according to one embodiment.

[0216] FIG. 12c is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S4) of the cross-sectional view.

[0217] FIG. 12d is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line B-B' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S5) of the cross-sectional view.

[0218] Referring to FIGS. 12A to 12D , the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (203) of FIG. 2A) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a protective member covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203). The protective member may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0219] Referring to FIGS. 12A to 12D, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) covering the rear (or side) of the first housing (210) and a buffer member (400) disposed along an edge of the rear cover (300).

[0220] The components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 12a to 12d may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2a to 11.

[0221] The embodiments of FIGS. 12a to 12d can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 11 and the embodiments of FIGS. 13a to 22b.

[0222] Hereinafter, in FIGS. 12a to 12d, unlike the shape of the buffer member (400) of FIGS. 6 to 11 (e.g., a closed loop), the shape of the buffer member (400) disposed only on the upper and / or lower side (e.g., the part in the +Y-axis, -Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101) and the associated configuration with adjacent structures are described.

[0223] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 12A and 12B), when the electronic device (101) is unfolded and the rear direction of the first housing (210) is viewed, a buffer member (400) may be disposed on an upper and / or lower edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) (e.g., an edge portion in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction). The first housing (210) and its periphery, where the buffer member (400) disposed on the first housing (210) comes into contact with the third protective member (236) covering the third housing (230), may be referred to as a contact section (P1). The first housing (210) and its periphery, where the buffer member (400) is not disposed and thus does not come into contact with the third protective member (236) covering the third housing (230), may be referred to as a non-contact section (P2).

[0224] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 12b and 12c), the buffer member (400) may be arranged along an upper edge portion (301) and / or a lower edge portion of the rear cover (300). For example, the buffer member (400) may be arranged to cover a portion of the upper edge portion (301) and / or a portion of the lower edge portion of the rear cover (300). The buffer member (400) may be arranged to face (e.g., face) an upper edge portion and / or a lower edge portion of the third protective member (236). For example, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236) are arranged to face (e.g., face) each other, and at least some of them may be in contact with each other.

[0225] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 12b and 12c), the rear surface of the first housing (210) may be disposed to face (e.g., face) the front surface (or side surface) of the third housing (230). For example, the first housing (210) and the rear cover (300) may be disposed to face (e.g., face) the third display area (A3) and the third protective member (236) of the flexible display (203) facing the front surface (or side surface) of the third housing (230). For example, the third protective member (236) may have a shape that protrudes in the front direction (e.g., extends outward in the front direction) more than the third housing (230) and the third display area (A3). The third protective member (236) may be in direct contact with the facing first housing (210) and rear cover (300) to prevent impact (e.g., damage to the outer surface due to friction and squeak noise due to friction) from occurring, and may be in contact with a buffer member (400) positioned to surround the edge of the rear cover (300).

[0226] According to one embodiment (see FIG. 12d), when the electronic device (101) is folded, the buffer member (400) and the third protective member (236) may be arranged so as not to face each other (e.g., face each other). For example, unlike the upper or lower edge portion (e.g., edge portion in the +Y-axis or -Y-axis direction) of the electronic device (101), the third protective member (236) may be arranged so as to be in direct contact with or partially spaced from the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) at the left or right edge portion (e.g., edge portion in the +X-axis or -X-axis direction) of the electronic device (101).

[0227] According to one embodiment, by placing the buffer member (400) only on the upper and lower edge portions (301) of the rear cover (300) where the rear cover (300) and the third protective member (236) substantially face each other (e.g., face each other), the area of ​​the rear cover (300) exposed to the outside can be expanded, and the BM (black matrix) can be made to not look wide, thereby improving the aesthetic appeal of the design. In addition, by reducing the size of the buffer member (400), material savings and work efficiency can be provided.

[0228] FIG. 13A is a rear view of a portion of a first housing of an electronic device, according to one embodiment.

[0229] FIG. 13b is an enlarged perspective view of an edge portion of the first housing of FIG. 13a, according to one embodiment.

[0230] FIG. 13c is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' and an enlarged view of an area (S6) of the cross-sectional view, according to one embodiment.

[0231] Referring to FIGS. 13A to 13C, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (203) of FIG. 2A) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a protective member covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203). The protective member may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0232] Referring to FIGS. 13a to 13c, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) that covers the rear (or side) of the first housing (210).

[0233] The components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 13a to 13c may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2a to 11.

[0234] The embodiments of FIGS. 13a to 13c can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 12d and the embodiments of FIGS. 14a to 22b.

[0235] Hereinafter, in FIGS. 13a to 13c, a configuration is described in which the buffer member (400) disposed within the electronic device (101) disclosed in FIGS. 6 and 11 is excluded, and the shape and / or material of the first housing (210) is varied differently.

[0236] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first support plate (217) and a first side wall (218) extending along an edge of the first support plate (217). The first side wall (218) may include a first-first side wall (218a) formed of a first material and a first-second side wall (218b) formed of a second material different from the first material. The first-first side wall (218a) is a portion extending from the first support plate (217) and may include substantially the same material (e.g., metal) as the first support plate (217). The first-second side wall (218b) is a portion of the first housing (210) disposed along an edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300), and the second material may include an elastic material or an injection-molded material. The first-second side wall (218b) may be spaced apart from the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300). For example, the second material may include at least one of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), or nylon (PA).

[0237] According to one embodiment, the first-second side wall (218b) formed of the second material of the first housing (210) may be formed to protrude further than one side (e.g., one side facing the -Z axis) of the rear cover (300) to prevent the rear cover (300) from making contact with the third protective member (236). For example, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (or a folding operation), the first-second side wall (218b) formed to protrude further than the one side of the rear cover (300) directly makes contact with the third protective member (236), thereby limiting a collision between the rear cover (300) and the third protective member (236). When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (or a folding operation), the collision between the third protective member (236) and the first-second side wall (218b) may be caused by contact between injection-molded or elastic members, thereby reducing damage and / or noise.

[0238] According to one embodiment, the first-second side wall (218b) of the first housing (210) may be arranged to correspond to the shape of the third protective member (236). For example, when viewed from one side (or side) of the rear cover (300), the first-second side wall (218b) may have a '[' shape. The first-second side wall (218b) may be positioned along the upper side (e.g., +Y-axis direction), lower side (e.g., -Y-axis direction), and left side (e.g., +X-axis direction) of the edge of the rear cover (300), and may have a shape in which the side facing outward is open. However, the shape of the first-second side wall (218b) is not limited thereto, and may be designed to have various shapes in which the rear cover (300) and the third protective member (236) do not directly contact each other.

[0239] FIG. 14A is a rear view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0240] FIG. 14B is an enlarged perspective view of a rear surface and an area of ​​a rear cover of the first housing of the electronic device of FIG. 14A, according to one embodiment.

[0241] FIG. 14c is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S7) of the cross-sectional view.

[0242] FIG. 15A is an enlarged perspective view of a rear surface and an area of ​​a rear cover of the first housing of the electronic device of FIG. 14A, according to one embodiment.

[0243] FIG. 15b is an enlarged view of an area (S8) of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 14c according to one embodiment.

[0244] FIG. 16A is an enlarged perspective view of a rear surface and an area of ​​a rear cover of the first housing of the electronic device of FIG. 14A, according to one embodiment.

[0245] FIG. 16b is an enlarged view of a rear cover corner area of ​​FIG. 16a according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0246] Referring to FIGS. 14A to 16B, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (203) of FIG. 2A) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a protective member covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203). The protective member may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0247] Referring to FIGS. 14A to 16B, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) that covers the rear (or side) of the first housing (210).

[0248] The components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 14a to 16b may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2a to 11.

[0249] The embodiments of FIGS. 14a to 16b can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 13c and the embodiments of FIGS. 15a to 22b.

[0250] Hereinafter, in FIGS. 14a to 16b, unlike the electronic device (101) disclosed in FIGS. 6 and 11, a configuration is described in which the buffer member (400) disposed in the first housing (210) is excluded and the shape of the rear cover (300) is varied differently.

[0251] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a first display area (A1) of a flexible display (203) arranged toward the front direction (e.g., +Z-axis direction) on a first housing (210), and a rear cover (300) arranged toward the rear direction (e.g., -Z-axis direction).

[0252] According to one embodiment, the rear cover (300) may include one side (310) that is exposed to the outside when the electronic device (101) is in an unfolded state and the other side (320) that faces the inside of the electronic device (101). When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, one side (310) of the rear cover (300) may be positioned to face (e.g., face) the third display area (A3) of the third housing (230) and may not be exposed to the outside. When the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, at least a portion of the rear cover (300) may come into contact with the third protective member (236) that covers the third display area (A3), and may include an elastic material and / or an injection-molded material to alleviate impact generated upon contact.

[0253] In one embodiment, the rear cover (300) may include an elastic material such as rubber, silicone, urethane, elastomer, spandex, or foam. In one embodiment, the rear cover (300) may include at least one of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), or nylon (PA).

[0254] According to one embodiment, the other surface (320) of the rear cover (300) forms a flat surface (or side), and an adhesive member (500) is arranged along the edge so as to be attached on the first support plate (217) of the first housing (210). According to one embodiment, one surface (or side) of the rear cover (300) may have a shape that protrudes more (e.g., extends outwardly) in some areas (e.g., edge portion (301)) than in other areas. Accordingly, only some of the protruding areas, rather than the entire one surface (or side) of the rear cover (300), may come into contact with the third protective member (236).

[0255] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 14b and 14c), the rear cover (300) may include a first region (305) having a first thickness (t1) and a second region (306) having a second thickness (t2) greater than the first thickness (t1). The first thickness (t1) and the second thickness (t2) may have specified sizes. The boundary between the first thickness (t1) and the second thickness (t2) may be stepped (e.g., formed in a step-like shape) or may form a curved surface (or side).

[0256] According to one embodiment, the second region (306) of the rear cover (300) may be a portion of an edge region of the rear cover (300). When viewed from above the rear cover (300), the second region (306) may be formed to surround at least a portion of the first region (305). For example, the second region (306) may be a closed loop shape along the edge of the first region (305). For example, the second region (306) may be formed only on an upper or lower edge of the rear cover (300).

[0257] According to one embodiment, the second region (306) may be in direct contact with the third protective member (236) when the electronic device (101) is folded. The first region (305) may be spaced apart from and not in contact with the third protective member (236) and / or the third display region (A3) when the electronic device (101) is folded.

[0258] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 15a and 15b), the rear cover (300) may include a first region (305) having a first thickness (t1), and a third region (307) having a third thickness (t3) greater than the first thickness (t1). The first thickness (t1) may have a specified size, and the third thickness (t3) may be a variable thickness that may form an inclined surface (or side). For example, the third region (307) may extend from one end of the first region (305) to the edge of the rear cover (300). For example, when looking at the cross-section of FIG. 15b, the third region (307) may have a slope that sequentially decreases from the edge of the rear cover (300) toward the center (e.g., toward the -Y axis direction).

[0259] According to one embodiment, the third region (307) of the rear cover (300) may be a portion of an edge region of the rear cover (300). When viewed from above the rear cover (300), the third region (307) may be formed to surround at least a portion of the first region (305). For example, the third region (307) may be a closed loop shape along the edge of the first region (305). For example, the third region (307) may be formed only on the upper or lower edge of the rear cover (300).

[0260] According to one embodiment, a portion of the third region (307) may be in contact with the third protective member (236) when the electronic device (101) is folded. For example, a portion of the third region (307) with the largest thickness may be in direct contact with the third protective member (236). The first region (305) may be spaced apart from and not in contact with the third protective member (236) and / or the third display area (A3) when the electronic device (101) is folded.

[0261] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 16A and 16B), the rear cover (300) may include a first region (305) having a first thickness (t1), and a fourth region (308) having a fourth thickness (t4) greater than the first thickness (t1). The first thickness (t1) may have a specified size, and the fourth thickness (t4) may be a variable thickness that may form a slope (or side).

[0262] According to one embodiment, the fourth region (308) of the rear cover (300) may be a corner region of the rear cover (300). When viewed from above the rear cover (300), the fourth region (308) may be formed only at a corner on the right side (e.g., in the +X-axis direction) of the upper edge of the rear cover (300) and / or a corner on the right side (e.g., in the +X-axis direction) of the lower edge of the rear cover (300). For example, the fourth region (308) may have a slope that sequentially decreases toward the center from the edge of the rear cover (300) (e.g., toward the -X-axis direction and toward the -Y-axis direction). For example, the fourth region (308) may have a portion in contact with the third protective member (236) having the largest thickness (e.g., the largest thickness among the fourth thicknesses (t4)), and the surrounding regions thereof may have thicknesses that sequentially decrease.

[0263] According to one embodiment, the rear cover (300) may be referred to as a decorative plate, and the decorative plate may be formed of a mixed material including glass. For example, a portion forming a flat surface of the decorative plate may include a material that provides aesthetic appeal, such as glass or ceramic, and a protruding portion other than the portion forming the flat surface may include a material including an elastic material (e.g., a polymer plastic such as PC (polycarbonate) or PET (polyethylene terephthalate)).

[0264] FIG. 17A is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0265] FIG. 17b is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' and an enlarged view of an area (S6) of the cross-sectional view, according to one embodiment.

[0266] Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (203) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a protective member covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203). The protective member may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0267] Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) that covers the rear (or side) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) may include a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230) to cover an edge portion of a third display area (A3) disposed toward the front of the third housing (230), and a first buffer member (400a) disposed in an area of ​​the third protective member (236).

[0268] The components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 17a and 17b may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2a to 11.

[0269] The embodiments of FIGS. 17a and 17b can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 16b and the embodiments of FIGS. 18a to 22b.

[0270] Hereinafter, in FIGS. 17a and 17b, unlike the position of the first buffer member (400a) of FIGS. 6 to 11 (e.g., positioned at the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300), the shape of the first buffer member (400a) positioned on the front side (236a) of the third protective member (236) and its associated configuration with adjacent structures will be described.

[0271] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state (e.g., see FIGS. 3A to 3D), the rear (or side) of the first housing (210) may be disposed to face (e.g., face) the front of the third housing (230). For example, the first housing (210) and the rear cover (300) may be disposed to face the third display area (e.g., the third display area (A3) of FIG. 2A) and the third protective member (e.g., the third protective member (236) of FIGS. 2A and 2B) of the flexible display (203) facing the front (or side) of the third housing (230). For example, the third protective member (236) may have a shape that protrudes in the front direction more than the third housing (230) and the third display area (A3). The third protective member (236) may be in direct contact with the first housing (210) and the rear cover (300) facing each other, so that an impact (e.g., damage to the outer surface due to friction and noise (squeak noise) due to friction) is not generated. A protruding first buffer member (400a) may be positioned on the front (or side) of the third protective member (236).

[0272] According to one embodiment, the first buffer member (400a) may be disposed at least partially on the third protective member (236) so as to be in contact with the rear cover (300). According to one embodiment, the first buffer member (400a) may be disposed along the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) (or so as to face (e.g., face) the edge portion (301) when the electronic device (101) is folded, so as to protect the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300). The first buffer member (400a) may be formed in the shape of a single closed loop, or may be formed in a plurality of separately disposed pieces.

[0273] According to one embodiment, the first buffer member (400a) can mitigate impact when it comes into contact with the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) to limit damage to the edge portion (301). For example, the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300) can be an area of ​​the rear (or side) of the rear cover (300) that faces the third display area (A3) and the third protective member (236).

[0274] According to one embodiment, when looking at the front of the third housing (230), the third protective member (236) may be formed to surround an edge portion of the third display area (A3) so as to cover the third display area (A3). For example, when looking at the front of the flexible display (203), the third protective member (236) may have a ']' shape. The third protective member (236) may be positioned along the upper side (e.g., +Y-axis direction), lower side (e.g., -Y-axis direction), and right side (e.g., +X-axis direction) of the edge of the third display area (A3), and may have a shape in which the side facing the second display area (A2) is open.

[0275] According to one embodiment, the first buffer member (400a) may be arranged to correspond to the shape of the third protective member (236). For example, when viewed from the front of the flexible display (203), the first buffer member (400a) may have a ']' shape. The first buffer member (400a) may be positioned along the upper side (e.g., +Y-axis direction), lower side (e.g., -Y-axis direction), and right side (e.g., +X-axis direction) of the edge of the third display area (A3), and may have a shape in which the side facing the second display area (A2) is open.

[0276] According to one embodiment, the third protective member (236) and the first buffer member (400a) may be manufactured through a double injection process. For example, the third protective member (236) may include a material such as PC, PET, or urethane, while the first buffer member (400a) may include an elastic material such as rubber, silicone, urethane, elastomer, spandex, or foam.

[0277] According to one embodiment, according to the double injection structure, a part of the first buffer member (400a) may be shaped to be inserted into the inside of the third protection member (236), and another part may be shaped to protrude outward.

[0278] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the first buffer member (400a) and the rear cover (300) are arranged to face each other (e.g., face each other), and at least a portion of the first buffer member (400a) may be in contact with each other. According to one embodiment, the exposed area of ​​the first buffer member (400a) may include a plane (or side) that directly contacts the rear cover (300) and surfaces inclined from the plane (or side) toward the third protective member (236).

[0279] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the first buffer member (400a) protrudes more than the third protective member (236) and the third side wall (238) of the third housing (230), so that the rear cover (300) facing the third protective member (236) can be spaced apart from each other.

[0280] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the first buffer member (400a) protrudes more than the third protective member (236) and the third side wall (238) of the third housing (230), so that the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) facing the third protective member (236) can be spaced apart from each other.

[0281] FIG. 18A is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0282] FIG. 18b is an enlarged view of an area (S7) of the electronic device of FIG. 18a, according to one embodiment.

[0283] FIG. 18c is an enlarged perspective view of an area (S7) of the electronic device of FIG. 18a, according to one embodiment.

[0284] FIG. 19A is an enlarged view of an area (S7) of the electronic device of FIG. 18A, according to one embodiment.

[0285] FIG. 19b is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment.

[0286] Referring to FIGS. 18A to 19B, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (203) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a protective member covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203). The protective member may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0287] Referring to FIGS. 18A to 19B, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) that covers the rear (or side) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) may include a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230) to cover an edge portion of a third display area (A3) disposed toward the front of the third housing (230), and a buffer member (second buffer member (400b) or third buffer member (400c)) disposed in one area of ​​the third protective member (236).

[0288] The components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 18a to 19b may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2a to 17b.

[0289] The embodiments of FIGS. 18a to 19b can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 17b and the embodiments of FIGS. 19a to 22b.

[0290] Hereinafter, in FIGS. 18a to 19b, unlike the shape of the buffer member (400) of FIGS. 17a and 17b (e.g., a closed loop), the shape of the buffer member (400) disposed on the upper and / or lower side of the electronic device (101) and its associated configuration with adjacent structures will be described.

[0291] According to one embodiment (see FIG. 18a), when the electronic device (101) is unfolded and the front direction of the third housing (230) is viewed, an area of ​​the third protective member (236) where the third protective member (236) and the rear cover (300) face each other (or come into contact) may be defined as a contact section (P11). In addition, an area of ​​the third protective member (236) where the third protective member (236) and the rear cover (300) do not face each other (or come into contact) may be defined as a non-contact section (P12). The non-contact area may be an area where the third protective member (236) and the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) face each other (or come into contact).

[0292] According to one embodiment, the second buffer member (400b) (or the third buffer member (400c)) may be disposed along an upper edge portion (e.g., an edge portion in the +Y-axis direction) and / or a lower edge portion (e.g., an edge portion in the -Y-axis direction) of the third protective member (236). For example, the second buffer member (400b) (or the third buffer member (400c)) may be disposed to cover a portion of the upper edge portion and / or the lower edge portion of the third protective member (236). The second buffer member (400b) (or the third buffer member (400c)) may be disposed to face (e.g., face) an upper edge portion and / or a lower edge portion of the rear cover (300). For example, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the buffer member (400) and the rear cover (300) are arranged to face each other (e.g., face each other), and at least some of them can be in contact with each other.

[0293] According to one embodiment, the rear (or side) of the first housing (210) may be disposed to face (e.g., face) the front of the third housing (230). For example, the first housing (210) and the rear cover (300) may be disposed to face (e.g., face) the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) and the third protective member (236) facing the front (or side) of the third housing (230). For example, the rear cover (300) may have a shape that protrudes rearward from the first housing (210), and the second buffer member (400b) (or the third buffer member (400c)) may be positioned to protrude toward the front of the third protective member (236) so that the rear cover (300) does not directly contact the third protective member (236) and an impact is not generated.

[0294] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 18b and 18c), the second buffer member (400b) may be a line shape having a predetermined thickness arranged along a central region of the third protective member (236) when the third protective member (236) is viewed from above. The buffer member (400) is arranged along the X-axis direction, and the central region of the third protective member (236) may be in contact with the rear cover (300) when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state.

[0295] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 19a and 19b), the third buffer member (400c) may include a first contact area (410c) arranged along a central region of the third protective member (236) when the third protective member (236) is viewed from above, and a second contact area (420c) extending upward (e.g., in the +Y-axis direction) from one or both ends of the first contact area (410c). For example, the first contact area (410c) of the buffer member (400) may be arranged along the X-axis direction and may have a line shape with a predetermined thickness arranged along the central region. The second contact area (420c) of the buffer member (400) may be arranged along the Y-axis direction and may have a line shape with a predetermined thickness. The first contact area (410c) may be substantially perpendicular to the second contact area (420c).

[0296] According to one embodiment (see FIGS. 19a and 19b), the second contact area (420c) of the third buffer member (400c) may be an area designed to extend beyond the first contact area (410c) to support the first housing (210) in some sections. Due to the second contact area (420c) of the third buffer member (400c), excessive pressing by the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) can be limited or reduced. For example, the first contact area (410c) of the third buffer member (400c) may be formed to contact the edge portion (301) of the rear cover (300). The second contact area (420c) of the third buffer member (400c) may be formed to contact the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210).

[0297] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the third protective member (236) may be positioned so as not to contact the first side wall (218) and / or the rear cover (300) of the first housing (210) and / or the rear cover (300) by the second buffer member (400b) (or the third buffer member (400c)).

[0298] According to one embodiment, the second buffer member (400b) (or the third buffer member (400c)) is disposed only on the upper and lower edge portions (301) of the rear cover (300) where the rear cover (300) and the third protective member (236) substantially face each other (e.g., face each other), so that the peripheral BM (black matrix) of the flexible display (203) (e.g., the third display area (A3)) does not appear wide and the aesthetic design can be improved. In addition, the size of the second buffer member (400b) (or the third buffer member (400c)) can be reduced to provide material savings and work efficiency.

[0299] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 3a taken along line A-A' according to one embodiment, and an enlarged view of an area (S8) of the cross-sectional view.

[0300] Referring to FIG. 20, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (203) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a protective member covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203). The protective member may include a first protective member (216) disposed in the first housing (210), a second protective member (226) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third-first protective member (236a) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0301] The components of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 20 may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2a to 17b.

[0302] The embodiments of FIG. 20 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 19b and the embodiments of FIGS. 21a to 22b.

[0303] Hereinafter, in FIG. 20, unlike the electronic devices disclosed in FIGS. 6 to 11, the buffer member (400) is excluded, and unlike the shape of the 3-1 protective member (236a) having a thicker side, the shape of the 3-1 protective member (236a) and its associated configuration with adjacent structures are described.

[0304] Referring to FIG. 20, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) that covers the rear (or side) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) may include a third-first protective member (236a) disposed in the third housing (230) to cover an edge portion of the third display area (A3) disposed toward the front of the third housing (230).

[0305] According to one embodiment, in order to prevent the third display area (A3) of the flexible display (203) from colliding with the rear cover (300) (or the first housing (210)) when the electronic device (101) is folded, the third-first protective member (236a) may cover the edge of the third display area (A3). The third-first protective member (236a) may cover the edge (e.g., the third side wall (238)) of the third housing (230) to protect the third housing (230).

[0306] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the rear cover (300) has a lower rigidity than the first housing (210), so that the rear cover (300) does not collide with the 3-1 protective member (236a), the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) may protrude in a rearward direction (e.g., in the -Z-axis direction) relative to the rear cover (300). For example, when the distance between the first support plate (217) of the first housing (210) and the rear (or side) of the rear cover (300) is defined as L1, and the distance between the first support plate (217) of the first housing (210) and one end of the first side wall (218) is defined as L2, L1 may be smaller than L2.

[0307] According to one embodiment, the third-first protective member (236a) may include a first protective portion (2361) and a second protective portion (2362). The first protective portion (2361) may be positioned inside the third housing (230) and may support the third-first protective member (236a). For example, the first protective portion (2361) may be inserted into a recess (239) of the third housing (230) to couple the third-first protective member (236a) to the third housing (230). The second protective portion (2362) may extend from one end of the first protective portion (2361) and may substantially cover an edge of the front surface of the third display area (A3) and an edge of the third housing (230). When looking at the cross-section of FIG. 20, the first protective portion (2361) and the second protective portion (2362) can be formed to extend substantially in a vertical direction.

[0308] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the rear cover (300) has a lower rigidity than the first housing (210), so that the rear cover (300) does not collide with the 3-1 protective member (236a), the thickness of the second protective part (2362) of the 3-1 protective member (236a) can be formed differently.

[0309] According to one embodiment, the second protective portion (2362) of the 3-1 protective member (236a) may include an inner portion (2362a) extending toward the third display area (A3) and an outer portion (2362b) extending toward the side wall of the third housing (230). The thickness of the outer portion (2362b) of the second protective portion (2362) may be designed to be greater than the thickness of the inner portion (2362a). Accordingly, when the electronic device (101) is folded (or in a folding operation), the rear cover (300) may facilitate contact between the first side wall (218) and the outer portion (2362b) of the 3-1 protective member (236a), which protrude in a facing direction, without the 3-1 protective member (236a) making contact.

[0310] FIG. 21A is a front view showing an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0311] FIG. 21b is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the front and one area (S9) of the third housing of the electronic device of FIG. 21a, according to one embodiment.

[0312] FIG. 21C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the electronic device of FIG. 21A in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0313] FIG. 22A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the electronic device of FIG. 21A in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0314] FIG. 22b is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the electronic device of FIG. 21a in a folded state, according to one embodiment.

[0315] Referring to FIGS. 21A to 22B, the electronic device (101) may include a foldable housing (201) including a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The electronic device (101) may include a flexible display (203) disposed toward the front of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), and a protective member covering an edge portion of the flexible display (203). The protective member may include a first gap-filling member (616) disposed in the first housing (210), a second gap-filling member (626) disposed in the second housing (220), and a third gap-filling member (636) disposed in the third housing (230).

[0316] The components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 21a to 22b may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 2a to 11.

[0317] The embodiments of FIGS. 21a to 22b can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 20.

[0318] Hereinafter, in FIGS. 21a to 22b, unlike the electronic device (101) disclosed in FIGS. 6 to 11, the protective member arranged in the housings (210, 220, 230) is excluded and replaced with a gap-filling member, which will be described. The third housing (230) and the third gap-filling member (636) arranged in connection therewith will be described, and the first and second housings (210, 220), respectively, and the first and second gap-filling members (616, 626), respectively, apply the above description.

[0319] According to one embodiment, a gap-filling member may be disposed in each housing (e.g., the first, second, and third housings (210, 220, and 230)) to limit contact between the flexible displays facing each other (e.g., the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2)), or between one area of ​​the flexible displays facing each other (e.g., the third display area (A3)) and the rear cover (300) when the electronic device (101) is folded.

[0320] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a rear cover (300) that covers the rear (or side) of the first housing (210). The electronic device (101) may include a third gap-filling member (636) that is disposed in the third housing (230) to cover an edge portion of a third display area (A3) that is disposed toward the front of the third housing (230).

[0321] In one embodiment, the third gap filling member (636) may be formed by injection molding, dispensing, compression molding, extrusion molding, or 3D printing to fill a gap between an edge of the flexible display (203) (e.g., the third display area (A3)) and the third sidewall (238) of the third housing (230). In the injection molding, the material for the third gap filling member (636) may be one of a sealant, an epoxy, a urethane foam, silicone, or a putty.

[0322] According to one embodiment, the length of the third gap-filling member (636) in the +Z-axis direction may be greater than the length of the third side wall (238) of the third housing (230) in the +Z-axis direction. The length of the third gap-filling member (636) in the +Z-axis direction may protrude (e.g., extend outward) further than the front surface (e.g., one surface facing the +Z-axis) of the third display area (A3). Accordingly, when the electronic device (101) is folded, the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) protruding further than the rear cover (300) may come into contact with the side wall of the third housing (230) or the third gap-filling member (636).

[0323] According to one embodiment, the third gap-filling member (636) may be positioned to face (e.g., face) an edge portion of the third display area (A3). Accordingly, when the electronic device (101) is folded, even if the rear cover (300) is pushed in the -Z-axis direction due to an impact, it may contact the third gap-filling member (636) that protrudes more than the third display area (A3).

[0324] According to one embodiment, by replacing the edge of the flexible display (203) with a third gap-filling member (636) instead of a plastic protective member, the peripheral BM (black matrix) of the flexible display (203) (e.g., the third display area (A3)) can be improved in terms of design aesthetics by providing a wide display without making it appear wide. In addition, by excluding the plastic protective member, material savings and work efficiency can be provided.

[0325] According to one embodiment, only the third gap-filling member (636) arranged to wrap around the edge of the third display area (A3) within the third housing (230) has been described, but is not limited thereto, and the above description may also be applied to a gap-filling member arranged to wrap around the edge of the first display area (A1) within the first housing (210) or to wrap around the edge of the second display area (A2) within the second housing (220).

[0326] According to one embodiment (see FIG. 22a), a damper (650) may be disposed on a first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) and / or a third side wall (238) of the third housing (230). The damper (650) may include an elastic material. For example, the damper (650) may include at least one of rubber, silicone, urethane, elastomer, spandex, or foam.

[0327] According to one embodiment (see FIG. 22a), when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the damper (650) may be disposed between the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) and / or the third side wall (238) of the third housing (230), thereby limiting collision and contact between the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) and / or the third side wall (238) of the third housing (230).

[0328] According to one embodiment (see FIG. 22b), the rear cover (300) may include a buffer member (400) that covers an edge portion (301) and is disposed in the first housing (210). The buffer member (400) may have the configuration of the buffer member (400) of FIGS. 6 to 11. The buffer member (400) may protrude beyond one surface (310) of the rear cover (300).

[0329] According to one embodiment (see FIG. 22b), when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, the buffer member (400) may be arranged to face (e.g., face) and contact the third gap-filling member (636). Accordingly, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, collision and contact between the first side wall (218) of the first housing (210) and / or the third side wall (238) of the third housing (230) may be limited. In addition, when the electronic device (101) is in a folded state, collision and contact between the rear cover (300) and the third display area (A3) may be limited.

[0330] Typically, an electronic device including a flexible display (e.g., a multi-foldable electronic device) may include a plurality of housings and a protective member (e.g., a front decoder) disposed along an edge of the housings. During a folding operation of the multi-foldable electronic device, a rear cover (e.g., a rear cover) of one housing and a protective member of another housing may collide with each other, which may generate a squeak noise or easily damage (e.g., breakage and / or scratching) the surface (or side) of the rear cover (e.g., the rear cover).

[0331] A multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can protect the edge of the rear cover (e.g., the rear cover) by positioning a buffer member along the edge of the rear cover (e.g., the rear cover) that faces a protective member (e.g., the front decoration) in a folded state. In addition, the buffer member can protect each component by spacing the rear cover and the flexible display apart in a shape that protrudes more than the rear cover.

[0332] A multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can selectively place a buffer member in an area that can come into contact with a protective member (e.g., a front deco) in a folded state, thereby increasing an area of ​​a rear cover exposed to the outside and reducing a BM (black matrix) area, thereby improving the aesthetic appeal of the design.

[0333] A multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can protect components (e.g., a protective member, a flexible display) that come into contact with the rear cover by including an elastic or injection material as the material of the rear cover that can come into contact with the protective member (e.g., a front deco) in a folded state.

[0334] A multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a buffer member disposed on a protective member (e.g., a front decoration) to protect a rear cover that may come into contact with the protective member when folded. Accordingly, when the buffer member and the rear cover come into contact, damage to the rear cover (e.g., breakage and / or scratches) may be limited.

[0335] The effects of the embodiments obtained in the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0336] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a multi-foldable housing (201). The multi-foldable housing (201) may include a second housing component (220), a first housing component (210) rotatably connected to one side of the second housing component, a third housing component (230) rotatably connected to the other side of the second housing component, a first in-folding hinge (240) disposed between the second housing component and the first housing component, and a second in-folding hinge (250) disposed between the second housing component and the third housing component and having a wider width than the first in-folding hinge. The electronic device may include a flexible display (203) disposed toward the front of the first housing component, the second housing component, and the third housing component, a protective member (236) covering an edge portion of the flexible display and disposed on the third housing component, a rear cover (300) disposed toward the rear of the first housing component and forming an exterior of the electronic device, and a buffer member (400) disposed at the first housing component to cover an edge portion of the rear cover (disposed at the first housing component to cover an edge portion of the deco plate). When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are disposed to face each other (e.g., face each other) (e.g., when the electronic device is in a folded state), the buffer member and the protective member may be configured to contact each other.

[0337] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a multi-foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing, a first hinge structure (240) disposed between the first housing and the second housing, a second hinge structure (250) rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing, a flexible display (203) disposed at a front side of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, a protective member (216; 226; 236) disposed at an edge area of ​​the flexible display, a rear cover (300) disposed at a rear side of the first housing and forming an exterior of the electronic device, and a buffer member (400) disposed at an edge area of ​​the rear cover. When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are placed facing each other (e.g., facing each other), the buffer member placed on the rear cover and the protective member (236) placed on the third housing may be configured to contact each other.

[0338] According to one embodiment, the protective member (216; 226; 236) is arranged along the edges of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) to cover the edge areas of the flexible display (203), and in a folding operation of the electronic device, the protective member may be configured to limit an external impact applied to the flexible display.

[0339] According to one embodiment, the buffer member (400) is arranged to cover an edge area of ​​the rear cover (300), and in a folding operation of the electronic device, the buffer member (400) can be configured to limit an external impact applied to the rear cover.

[0340] According to one embodiment, when the rear cover (300) and a part of the flexible display (203) are placed face to face, the rear cover and the protective member (236) placed on the third housing (230) can be placed so as not to contact each other by the buffer member (400).

[0341] According to one embodiment, when the rear cover (300) and a part of the flexible display (230) are placed face to face, the buffer member (400) may be configured to alleviate an impact applied to the protective member (236) placed in the third housing (230) by the buffer member.

[0342] According to one embodiment, the protective member may include a first protective member (216) covering a first edge portion of the flexible display (203) and disposed in a first housing (210), a second protective member (226) covering a second edge portion of the flexible display and disposed in a second housing (220), and a third protective member (236) covering a third edge portion of the flexible display and disposed in a third housing (230). When the electronic device is folded, the first protective member and the second protective member may be formed to contact each other.

[0343] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the buffer member may include a portion that protrudes further outward than one surface of the rear cover.

[0344] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the buffer member may include a portion that protrudes further than the side wall of the first housing.

[0345] According to one embodiment, when the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are placed face to face (e.g., when the electronic device is in a folded state), the rear cover and the protective member may be arranged so as not to contact each other by the buffer member.

[0346] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the buffer member may include a plane (425a) that is in contact with the protective member, and a surface (425b, 425c) inclined from one side of the plane toward the rear cover.

[0347] According to one embodiment, the buffer member may include a first buffer portion (410) disposed inside the first housing to support the buffer member, and a second buffer portion (420) extending from the first buffer portion and forming an outer appearance of the electronic device and disposed between the rear cover and the first housing.

[0348] According to one embodiment, the buffer member may be arranged in a closed loop shape along an edge portion of the rear cover.

[0349] In one embodiment, the side wall of the first housing may include a first side parallel to the first in-folding hinge, a second side substantially perpendicular to the first side, and a third side parallel to the second side. The buffer member may be disposed along an edge portion of the rear cover, adjacent to at least one of the second side and the third side of the first housing.

[0350] In one embodiment, the buffer member may include an outer side facing the first housing and an inner side opposite the outer side. The buffer member may include a recess formed along the inner side, and an edge portion of the rear cover may be shaped to be inserted into the recess.

[0351] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include an adhesive member (500) disposed along an edge portion of the rear cover. The adhesive member may secure the rear cover to the first housing, and a portion of the buffer member may be disposed between the adhesive member and a side wall of the first housing.

[0352] According to one embodiment, the flexible display may include a first display area (A1) supported by the first housing, a second display area (A2) supported by the second housing, and a third display area (A3) supported by the third housing. When the electronic device is folded, the second housing and the third housing may be spaced apart from each other with the first housing interposed therebetween, and the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) may be disposed facing each other (e.g., facing each other).

[0353] In one embodiment, the second in-folding hinge has a wider width than the first in-folding hinge, and the outer wall of the first housing can be positioned so that it faces (e.g., faces) the second in-folding hinge when the electronic device is in a fully folded state.

[0354] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a multi-foldable housing (201). The multi-foldable housing may include a second housing (220), a first housing (210) rotatably connected to one side of the second housing, a third housing (230) rotatably connected to the other side of the second housing, a first in-folding hinge (240) disposed between the second housing and the first housing, and a second in-folding hinge (250) disposed between the second housing and the third housing and having a wider width than the first in-folding hinge. The electronic device may include a flexible display (203) disposed toward the front of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, a protective member (236) covering an edge portion of the flexible display and disposed in the third housing, a rear cover (300) disposed toward the rear of the first housing and forming an exterior of the electronic device, and a buffer member (400) disposed adjacent to an edge portion of the rear cover. When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are disposed facing each other (e.g., facing each other) (e.g., when the electronic device is in a folded state), the rear cover and the protective member may be formed so as not to contact each other by the buffer member.

[0355] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a multi-foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing, a first in-folding hinge (240) disposed between the first housing and the second housing and rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, a second in-folding hinge (250) disposed between the second housing and the third housing and rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing, a flexible display (203) disposed at a front side of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, a protective member (216; 226; 236) disposed at an edge area of ​​the flexible display, a rear cover (300) disposed at a rear side of the first housing and forming an exterior of the electronic device, and a buffer member (400) disposed adjacent to an edge portion of the rear cover. When the rear cover and a part of the flexible display are placed facing each other (e.g., facing each other), the rear cover and the protective member may be configured to contact each other by the buffer member.

[0356] According to one embodiment, the buffer member may be disposed in the first housing so as to cover an edge portion of the rear cover.

[0357] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the buffer member may include a portion that protrudes further outward than one surface of the rear cover.

[0358] In one embodiment, another portion of the buffer member may include a portion that protrudes further than the side wall (218) of the first housing.

[0359] According to one embodiment, a portion of the buffer member may be positioned on the protective member, and when the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are positioned facing each other (e.g., facing each other) (e.g., when the electronic device is in a folded state), the buffer member and the rear cover may be formed to contact each other.

[0360] According to one embodiment, a portion of the buffer member may be positioned on the protective member and include a first contact area (410c) extending in a first direction, and a second contact area (420c) extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first contact area.

[0361] According to one embodiment, when the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are placed face to face (e.g., facing each other), the first contact area of ​​the buffer member may be configured to contact the rear cover and the second contact area of ​​the buffer member may be configured to contact the first housing.

[0362] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a multi-foldable housing (201). The multi-foldable housing may include a second housing (220), a first housing (210) rotatably connected to one side of the second housing, a third housing (230) rotatably connected to the other side of the second housing, a first in-folding hinge (240) disposed between the second housing and the first housing, and a second in-folding hinge (250) disposed between the second housing and the third housing and having a wider width than the first in-folding hinge. The electronic device may include a flexible display (203) disposed toward the front of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, a protective member (236) covering an edge portion of the flexible display and disposed in the third housing, and a rear cover (300) disposed toward the rear of the first housing and forming an exterior of the electronic device. When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are placed face to face (e.g., facing each other) (e.g., when the electronic device is in a folded state), a portion of the rear cover and the protective member may be configured to contact each other.

[0363] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a multi-foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing, a first in-folding hinge (240) disposed between the first housing and the second housing and rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, a second in-folding hinge (250) disposed between the second housing and the third housing and rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing, a flexible display (203) disposed at a front side of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing, a protective member (216; 226; 236) disposed at an edge area of ​​the flexible display, a rear cover (300) disposed at a rear side of the first housing and forming an exterior of the electronic device, and a buffer member (400) disposed adjacent to an edge portion of the rear cover. When the rear cover and a portion of the flexible display are placed face to face (e.g., facing each other), the portion of the rear cover and the protective member may be configured to contact each other by the buffer member.

[0364] In one embodiment, the rear cover may include an elastic material or an injection-molded material.

[0365] According to one embodiment, the rear cover includes a first region (305) having a first thickness (t1), a second region (306; 307) having a second thickness (T2) greater than the first thickness, and the part of the rear cover is the second region and can be formed as an edge portion of the rear cover.

[0366] According to one embodiment, the second thickness of the second region of the rear cover may include a slope that sequentially decreases in the longitudinal direction of the rear cover.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101 of FIGS. 2a; 2b; 3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 4; 5), A multi-foldable housing (201 in FIG. 2a; 2b; 3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 4; 5) comprising a first housing (210 in FIG. 2a; 2b; 3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 4; 5), a second housing (220 in FIG. 2a; 2b; 3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 4; 5) and a third housing (230 in FIG. 2a; 2b; 3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 4; 5); A first hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing (240 in FIGS. 2a; 2b; 3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 4; 5); A second hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing (250 of FIGS. 2a; 2b; 3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 4; 5); A flexible display disposed at the front side of the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing (203 in FIGS. 2a; 2b; 3a; 3b; 3c; 3d; 4; 5); A protective member arranged at the edge area of ​​the flexible display (216; 226; 236 of FIGS. 2a; 2b; 4; 5); A rear cover (300 in FIGS. 6; 7; 8; 9; 10; 11) disposed on the rear of the first housing and forming the exterior of the electronic device; and A buffer member (400 in Figs. 6; 7; 8; 9; 10; 11) disposed at an edge portion of the deco plate of the rear cover, An electronic device in which, when the rear cover and a part of the flexible display are placed face to face, the buffer member placed on the rear cover and the protective member (236) placed on the third housing are configured to contact each other.

2. In paragraph 1, The above protective member (216; 226; 236) is arranged along the edges of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) to cover the edge areas of the flexible display (203), An electronic device, wherein, in a folding operation of the electronic device, the protective member is configured to limit an external impact applied to the flexible display.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above buffer member (400) is arranged to cover the edge area of ​​the rear cover (300), An electronic device, wherein, in the folding operation of the electronic device, the buffer member (400) is configured to limit external impact applied to the rear cover.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, An electronic device in which the rear cover (300) and a part of the flexible display (203) are placed face to face, and the protective member (236) placed on the rear cover and the third housing (230) are placed so as not to contact each other by the buffer member (400).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, An electronic device in which, when the rear cover (300) and a part of the flexible display (230) are placed face to face, the buffer member (400) is configured to alleviate the impact applied to the protective member (236) placed in the third housing (230).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, the protective member, A first protective member (216) covering the first edge portion of the flexible display (203) and arranged in the first housing (210); A second protective member (226) covering the second edge portion of the flexible display and arranged in the second housing (220); and Covering the third edge portion of the flexible display, and including a third protective member (236) disposed in the third housing (230), An electronic device, wherein, when the electronic device is folded, the first protective member and the second protective member are configured to contact each other.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, An electronic device, wherein at least a portion of the above-described buffer member (400) includes a portion that protrudes further outward than one surface of the rear cover (300).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, An electronic device, wherein at least a portion of the buffer member (400) includes a portion that protrudes further than the side wall of the first housing (210).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, An electronic device, wherein at least a portion of the buffer member (400) includes a plane (425a) that can contact the protective member (236), and a surface (425b; 425c) inclined from one side of the plane toward the rear cover (300).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, An electronic device, wherein the buffer member (400) includes a first buffer portion (410) disposed inside the first housing (210) to support the buffer member, and a second buffer portion (420) extending from the first buffer portion and forming an outer appearance of the electronic device and disposed between the rear cover (300) and the first housing.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, An electronic device in which the above-mentioned buffer member (400) is formed in a closed loop shape along the edge portion of the rear cover (300).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The side wall of the first housing (210) includes a first side parallel to the first hinge structure (240), a second side substantially perpendicular to the first side, and a third side parallel to the second side, An electronic device in which the buffer member (400) is positioned adjacent to at least one of the second side and the third side of the first housing along the edge portion of the rear cover (300).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The above buffer member (400) includes an outer side facing the first housing (210) and an inner side opposite to the outer side, An electronic device wherein the buffer member includes a recess formed along the inner side, and an edge portion of the rear cover (300) is shaped to be inserted into the recess.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, It further includes an adhesive member (500) arranged along the edge portion of the rear cover (300), An electronic device wherein the adhesive member fixes the rear cover to the first housing (210), and a portion of the buffer member (400) is disposed between the adhesive member and the side wall of the first housing.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The flexible display (203) includes a first display area (A1) supported by the first housing (210), a second display area (A2) supported by the second housing (220), and a third display area (A3) supported by the third housing (230). An electronic device, wherein, in a folded state, the first housing is interposed between the second housing and the third housing, and the first display area (A1) and the second display area (A2) are arranged to face each other.

Images