Electronic device comprising antenna

Abstract

This electronic device may comprise: a first housing part, the first housing part including a first metal frame that has a first set of conductive portions, the first set of conductive portions including a first conductive portion; a second housing part, the second housing part including a second metal frame that has a second set of conductive portions, the second set of conductive portions including a second conductive portion; a third housing part, the third housing part including a third metal frame that has a third set of conductive portions, the third set of conductive portions including a third conductive portion; a display supported by the first housing part, the second housing part and the third housing part; and a switching circuit connected to the third conductive portion.

Description

Electronic device including an antenna

[0001] The descriptions below relate to electronic devices that include antennas.

[0002] An electronic device may transmit signals via an antenna or receive signals via an antenna. The electronic device may include a conductive portion positioned on a portion of an edge of a metal housing. The conductive portion may function as an antenna radiator for transmitting and / or receiving signals.

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

[0004] In embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a first housing part, the first housing part including a first metal frame having a first set of externally visible conductive portions, the first set of conductive portions including a first conductive portion formed at least partially on a side of the first metal frame among a top, a bottom, and a side surface of the first metal frame; a second housing part, the second housing part including a second metal frame having a second set of externally visible conductive portions, the second set of conductive portions including the second conductive portions; a third housing part, the third housing part including a third metal frame having a third set of externally visible conductive portions, the third set of conductive portions including the third conductive portions; a display supported by the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part; and a switching circuit connected to the third conductive portion. The switching circuit may be controlled to connect the third conductive part to at least one element among one or more elements connected to ground while a signal is transmitted or received through the first conductive part, while the third housing part is disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0005] In embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a first housing part including a first conductive portion, a second housing part including a second conductive portion, a third housing part including a third conductive portion; and a display supported by the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. A first portion of the first conductive portion may be formed at an upper or lower end of the first housing part, and a second portion of the first conductive portion may be formed at a side surface of the first housing part, extending from the first portion. The first conductive portion may be arranged to at least partially overlap a second hinge structure that rotatably couples the second housing part and the third housing part, or a portion of the display corresponding to the second hinge structure, while the third housing part is arranged between the first housing part and the second housing part. The switching circuit of the third housing part can be controlled to connect the third conductive part to at least one element among one or more elements connected to ground while a signal is transmitted or received through the first conductive part, while the third housing part is disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0006] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment.

[0007] Figures 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, and 3b illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices.

[0008] Figures 4a and 4b show examples of foldable-type electronic devices.

[0009] FIG. 5a, FIG. 5b, FIG. 5c, FIG. 6a, and FIG. 6b illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices.

[0010] Figure 7 shows examples of states of a foldable-type electronic device.

[0011] FIG. 8a and FIG. 8b show examples of differences in antenna performance in the folded and unfolded states, respectively, of a foldable-type electronic device.

[0012] Fig. 9 shows an example of a foldable-type electronic device having a switching circuit for resonance.

[0013] Fig. 10 shows an example of a switching circuit for resonance.

[0014] Fig. 11 shows an example of a foldable-type electronic device having a switching circuit for resonance.

[0015] Figures 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, and 12e illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices having a switching circuit for resonance.

[0016] Figure 13 shows an example of a foldable-type electronic device having a switching circuit for resonance and an additional switching circuit.

[0017] Figure 14 shows an example of an electric field of a foldable-type electronic device.

[0018] Figures 15a and 15b show examples of antenna performance of a foldable-type electronic device having a switching circuit for resonance and an additional switching circuit.

[0019] Fig. 16 shows an example of a semi-folded state of a foldable-type electronic device.

[0020] Figures 17a and 17b show examples of antenna performance of a foldable-type electronic device in a semi-folded state.

[0021] Figures 18a and 18b show examples of antenna performance of a foldable-type electronic device in a semi-folded state.

[0022] Figure 19a shows an example of current distribution in a semi-folded state of a foldable-type electronic device.

[0023] Figure 19b shows an example of an electric field in a semi-folded state of a foldable-type electronic device.

[0024] Fig. 20 shows an example of a foldable-type electronic device including switching circuits.

[0025] FIG. 21a shows an example of a foldable-type electronic device including switching circuits in a folded state.

[0026] FIG. 21b shows an example of a foldable-type electronic device including switching circuits in a semi-folded state.

[0027] FIGS. 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f, 22g, 22h, and 22i illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices including switching circuits.

[0028] The terms used in this disclosure are used only to describe specific embodiments and may not be intended to limit the scope of other embodiments. The singular expression may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art described in this disclosure. Terms defined in general dictionaries among the terms used in this disclosure may be interpreted as having the same or similar meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this disclosure. In some cases, even if a term is defined in this disclosure, it cannot be interpreted to exclude embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] The various embodiments of the present disclosure described below illustrate a hardware-based approach as an example. However, since the various embodiments of the present disclosure include techniques utilizing both hardware and software, the various embodiments of the present disclosure do not exclude a software-based approach.

[0030] Terms referring to parts of electronic devices used in the following description (e.g., substrate, PCB (printed circuit board), FPCB (flexible PCB), PBA (printed board assembly), module, antenna, antenna element, circuit, processor, chip, component, or device), terms referring to RF-related parts (FEM (front end module0), PAM (power amplifier module), FEMid (FEM including duplexer), PAMid (power amplifier module including duplexer), LPAMid (low noise amplifier PAM including duplexer), RFFE (radio frequency front end)), RFIC (radio frequency integrated circuit)), terms referring to at least a part of an antenna (e.g., antenna radiator, radiator, conductive wire pattern, coil, conductive member, radiating member, radiating material, radiating part, antenna structure, antenna structure), terms referring to the shape of a part (e.g., structure, structure, support, contact, or protrusion), terms referring to a connection between structures (e.g., connection, contact, support, contact structure, conductive member, or assembly), Terms referring to open structures (e.g., slots, slits, or openings), terms referring to circuits (e.g., PCB, FPCB, signal lines, ground lines, feeding lines, data lines, RF signal lines, antenna lines, RF paths, RF modules, RF circuits, splitters, dividers, couplers, or combiners), etc. are examples for convenience of explanation. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the terms described below, and other terms having equivalent technical meanings may be used. In addition, 'used below.Terms such as '...bu', '...gi', '...mul', or '...che' can mean at least one shape structure or a unit that processes a function.

[0031] In the present disclosure, expressions such as “more than” or “less than” may be used to determine whether a specific condition is satisfied or fulfilled, but this is merely a description for expressing an example and does not exclude descriptions such as “more than” or “less than.” A condition described as “more than” may be replaced with “more than,” a condition described as “less than” may be replaced with “less than,” and a condition described as “more than and less than” may be replaced with “more than and less than.” In addition, hereinafter, “A” to “B” mean at least one of elements from A (including A) to B (including B). hereinafter, “C” and / or “D” mean at least one of “C” or “D,” that is, including {“C,” “D,” “C” and “D”}.

[0032] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0034] 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.

[0035] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0036] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., a processor (120) or a sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include a volatile memory (132) or a non-volatile memory (134).

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0041] 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).

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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). NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimizing terminal power and connecting 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.

[0051] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0052] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0053] 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)).

[0054] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server 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.

[0055] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 3A, and 3B illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices (e.g., electronic device (101)). FIG. 2A illustrates an example of a first state of the electronic device. FIG. 2B illustrates an example of a second state of the electronic device. FIG. 2C illustrates an example of a third state of the electronic device. The electronic device (200) may be referred to as electronic device (101).

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, an electronic device (200) may include a housing structure (201), a flexible display (240), a first hinge structure (250), a second hinge structure (260), and a display (270). The housing structure (201) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230).

[0057] The first housing part (210) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (220) by the first hinge structure (250). The second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) can be rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (250). While the second housing part (220) is rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (250), the first housing part (210) can be rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (250). For example, when the second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) are rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (250), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (220) can be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the first housing part (210).

[0058] The third housing part (230) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (220) by a second hinge structure (260). The second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) can be rotated with respect to the second hinge structure (260). While the third housing part (230) is rotated with respect to the second hinge structure (260), the second housing part (220) can be rotated with respect to the second hinge structure (260). For example, when the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) are rotated with respect to the second hinge structure (260), the angular displacement of the second housing part (220) can be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the third housing part (230).

[0059] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide (or enable) a first state (200a) of the electronic device (200) (or a first state (200a) of the housing structure (201)). The first state (200a) of the electronic device (200) (or the first state (200a) of the housing structure (201)) can be described as an unfolded state (or an unfolded state) of the electronic device (200) (or the housing structure (201)). Within the first state (200a), the front surface of the first housing part (210), the front surface of the second housing part (220), and the front surface of the third housing part (230) can define the front surface of the electronic device (200). Within the first state (200a), the front of the first housing part (210), the front of the second housing part (220), and the front of the third housing part (230) can face the same direction. Within the first state (200a), the electronic device (200) can provide a large display area of ​​the flexible display (240) to the user.

[0060] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide a second state (200b) of the electronic device (200). The second state (200b) of the electronic device (200) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (200) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folded state, a half-folded state, or a semi-folded state). For example, within the second state (200b), the front surface of the second housing part (220) and the front surface of the first housing part (210) may face the same direction, and the front surface of the third housing part (230) and the front surface of the second housing part (220) may face opposite directions. For example, within the third state, the third housing part (230) and the second housing part (220) may be folded, and the second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) may be unfolded. Within the second state (200b), the electronic device (200) can transmit visual information through a portion of the flexible display (240) (e.g., the third display area (240c)).

[0061] The electronic device (200) can change from the first state (200a) to the third state (200c) through the second state (200b). The electronic device (200) can change from the first state (200a), which is an unfolded state, to the second state (200b), which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (200) can change from the first state (200a), in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230) face the same direction, to the second state (200b), in which the front of the third housing part (230) faces the front of the second housing part (220). The electronic device (200) can change from the second state (200b), which is a partially unfolded state, to the third state (200c), which is a folded state. For example, when changing from the second state (200b) to the third state (200c), the folded third housing part (230) and the second housing part (220) can be placed on the first housing part (210).

[0062] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide a third state (200c) of the electronic device (200) (or a third state (200c) of the housing structure (201)). The third state (200c) of the electronic device (200) (or the third state (200c) of the housing structure (201)) can be described as a folded state (or a folding state, a multi-folding state, or a full-folding state) of the electronic device (200) (or the housing structure (201)). Within the third state (200c), the front surface of the third housing part (230) and the front surface of the second housing part (220) can face opposite directions, and the front surface of the second housing part (220) and the front surface of the first housing part (210) can face opposite directions. Within the third state (200c), the front of the third housing part (230) and the front of the first housing part (210) may face the same direction. For example, within the third state (200c), the front of the second housing part (220) may face the front of the third housing part (230), and the front of the first housing part (210) may face the rear of the third housing part (230). Within the third state (200c), the rear of the second housing part (220) may be exposed to the outside. The camera (275) may be disposed on the rear of the second housing part (220). Within the third state (200c), the rear of the first housing part (210) may be exposed to the outside. The display (270) may be disposed on the rear of the first housing part (210). Within the third state (200c), the electronic device (200) can be folded to improve portability and provide visual information through a display (270) disposed in the first housing part (210) of the electronic device (200) in the third state (200c).

[0063] The electronic device (200) may further include a key button (239). The key button (239) may be exposed from a structure (e.g., an opening) formed on a side of the first housing part (210) and may partially protrude outside the electronic device (200). The key button (239) may physically provide an input to a processing circuit inside the electronic device (200) by pressure transmitted from the outside. The key button (239) may not be included in the electronic device and may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key displayed on a flexible display (240) or a display (270).

[0064] The key button (239) may be positioned on the side of the first housing part (210) so as to be exposed to the outside in the third state (200c). The key button positioned on the first housing part (210) may move from the left side of the electronic device (200) to the right side of the electronic device (200) as the state of the electronic device (200) changes from the third state (200c) to the first state (200a) by a user looking at the display. For example, referring to FIG. 2a, in the first state (200a), when the flexible display (240) is viewed from above, the key button (239) may be positioned on the right side. Referring to FIG. 2b, in the third state (200c), when the display (270) is viewed from above, the key button (239) may be positioned on the left side.

[0065] A flexible display (240) can at least partially define the exterior appearance of the electronic device (200). The flexible display (240) can be partially disposed within the housing structure (201). The flexible display (240) can define the front surface of the electronic device (200). The flexible display (240) can include a first unbendable portion (241), a second unbendable portion (242), a third unbendable portion (243), a first bendable portion (244), and a second bendable portion (245). The first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) can be disposed on the front surface of the third housing part (230). The second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) can be disposed on the front surface of the second housing part (220). The third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed on the front side of the first housing part (210). The first bendable part (244) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed between the first unbendable part (241) and the second unbendable part (242) of the flexible display (240). For example, the first bendable part (244) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed on the second hinge structure (260) connecting the third housing part (230) and the second housing part (220). The second bendable part (245) of the flexible display (240) may be disposed between the second unbendable part (242) and the third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240). For example, the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) may be placed on the first hinge structure (250) connecting the second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210).

[0066] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may face substantially the same direction as the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240), the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240), and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240). In the first state (200a), the first bendable portion (244) and the second bendable portion (245) may be arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (241), the second unbendable portion (242), and the third unbendable portion (243).

[0067] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide a second state (200b) of the electronic device (200). Within the second state (200b), the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) can face the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240), and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) can face the same direction as the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240). For example, the second unbendable portion (242) and the third unbendable portion (243) can be arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane.

[0068] In the second state (200b), the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) is bent by the second hinge structure (260), so that the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) can be folded so that the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) and the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) face different directions.

[0069] In the second state (200b), the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) is maintained in an unfolded state by the first hinge structure (250), so that the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) can unfold so that the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) face the same direction.

[0070] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) can provide a third state (200c) of the electronic device (200). In the third state (200c), the second unbendable part (242) of the flexible display (240) can face the first unbendable part (241) of the flexible display (240), and the third unbendable part (243) of the flexible display (240) can face the back of the third housing part (230).

[0071] In the third state (200c), the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) is bent by the second hinge structure (260), so that the first bendable portion (244) of the flexible display (240) can be folded so that the first unbendable portion (241) of the flexible display (240) and the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) face different directions.

[0072] In the third state (200c), the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) is bent by the first hinge structure (250), so that the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) can be folded such that the second unbendable portion (242) of the flexible display (240) and the third unbendable portion (243) of the flexible display (240) face different directions. The second bendable portion (245) may further include a first deformable portion (245a), a second deformable portion (245b), and a flat portion (245c). The first deformable portion (245a) may be disposed between the planar portion (245c) and the second unbendable portion (242), and the second deformable portion (245b) may be disposed between the planar portion (245c) and the third unbendable portion (243). The planar portion (245c) may be disposed between the first deformable portion (245a) and the second deformable portion (245b). The planar portion (245c) may be supported by a support plate (e.g., the support plate (364) of FIG. 3a) that is distinct from the hinge plates of the first hinge structure (250) (e.g., the third hinge plate (362) and the fourth hinge plate (363) of FIG. 3a). Regardless of the state of the electronic device (200), the planar portion (245c) may remain flat. The first deformable portion (245a) and the second deformable portion (245b) can be unfolded in the first state (200a) and the second state (200b), and in the third state (200c), the first deformable portion (245a) and the second deformable portion (245b) can be folded so that the second unbendable portion (242) and the third unbendable portion (243) face different directions.

[0073] Within the third state (200c), the third housing part (230) can be positioned between the second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210). Within the third state (200c), the second bendable portion (245) of the flexible display (240) positioned on the first hinge structure (250) can be partially directed toward the side surface (230c) of the third housing part (230).

[0074] The display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may include a first display area (240a), a second display area (240b), and a third display area (240c). The display area represents an area that can provide visual information from the flexible display (240). In the first state (200a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may be visible from the front of the housing structure (201). For example, in the first state (200a), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may be visually exposed. The electronic device (200) may provide a user with a large display area that includes the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c).

[0075] Within the second state (200b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may be partially visible from the front of the first housing part (210). For example, the third unbendable portion (243) may be visually exposed, and the first display area (240a) and the second display area (240b) may not be visually exposed.

[0076] Within the third state (200c), the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) may not be visible. For example, within the third state (200c), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may not be visually exposed.

[0077] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen within a first state (200a) of the electronic device (200), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may be activated. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen within a second state (200b) of the electronic device (200), the third display area (240c) may be activated, and the first display area (240a) and the second display area (240b) of the flexible display (240) may be deactivated. As a non-limiting example, within the third state (200c) of the electronic device (200), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) may be deactivated.

[0078] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen within a first state (200a) of the electronic device (200), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) can display visual information. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (240) is used to display a screen within a second state (200b) of the electronic device (200), the third display area (240c) can provide visual information, and the first display area (240a) and the second display area (240b) of the flexible display (240) can provide a black image. As a non-limiting example, within the third state (200c), the first display area (240a), the second display area (240b), and the third display area (240c) of the flexible display (240) can provide a black image.

[0079] Figure 3a is a plan view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed. Figure 3b is a rear view of the electronic device with the back cover and display removed.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device (200) may include a first hinge structure (250) and a second hinge structure (260). A first width (w1) of the second hinge structure (260) may be narrower than a second width (w2) of the first hinge structure (250). A difference between the first width (w1) of the second hinge structure (260) and the second width (w2) of the first hinge structure (250) may be equal to or greater than a thickness of the third housing part (230). For example, the first hinge structure (250) may have a second width (w2) that is wider than the first width (w1) such that the third housing part (230) is disposed between the second housing part (220) and the first housing part (210) according to the third state (200c). The second hinge structure (260) may be referred to as a narrow hinge structure in that it has a narrower width than the first hinge structure (250). The first hinge structure (250) may be referred to as a wide hinge structure in that it has a wider width than the second hinge structure (260).

[0081] The second hinge structure (260) may include a first set of gears (351), a first hinge plate (352), and a second hinge plate (353). The first hinge plate (352) may be coupled to a third support portion (231) of a third housing part (230). The second hinge plate (353) may be coupled to a second support portion (221) of a second housing part (220). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351) may be configured to rotate the first hinge plate (352) and the second hinge plate (353). For example, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351) can rotate the second hinge plate (353) (or the second housing part (220)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (352) (or the third housing part (230)). When the first hinge plate (352) (or the third housing part (230)) rotates, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351) can rotate in accordance with the rotation of the first hinge plate (352) (or the third housing part (230)). The second hinge plate (353) (or the second housing part (220)) can rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (352) according to the rotation of the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (351) can include a first gear (g11), a second gear (g12), a third gear (g13), and a fourth gear (g14). The first gear (g11) can be arranged adjacent to the first hinge plate (352), and the fourth gear (g14) can be arranged adjacent to the second hinge plate (353). The second gear (g12) and the third gear (g13) can be arranged between the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14).The first gear (g11), the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13), and the fourth gear (g14) can be sequentially meshed. According to the rotation of the first gear (g1) in the first rotation direction (e.g., clockwise), the second gear (g2) meshed with the first gear (g1) can be rotated in the second rotation direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the second gear (g2) in the second rotation direction, the third gear (g3) meshed with the second gear (g2) can be rotated in the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the third gear (g3) in the first rotation direction, the fourth gear (g4) can be rotated in the second rotation direction. As the first gear (g1) and the fourth gear (g4) rotate in different directions, the third housing part (230) connected to the first hinge plate (352) and the second housing part (220) connected to the second hinge plate (353) can be folded or unfolded.

[0082] The first hinge structure (250) may include a second set of gears (361), a third hinge plate (362), a fourth hinge plate (363), and a support plate (364). The third hinge plate (362) may be coupled to a second support portion (221) of the second housing part (220). The fourth hinge plate (363) may be coupled to a first support portion (211) of the first housing part (210). The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (361) may be configured to rotate the third hinge plate (362) and the fourth hinge plate (363). For example, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (361) can rotate the fourth hinge plate (363) (or the first housing part (210)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (362) (or the second housing part (220)). After the third hinge plate (362) (or the second housing part (220)) is rotated, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (361) can be rotated in accordance with the rotation of the third hinge plate (362) (or the second housing part (220)). The fourth hinge plate (363) (or the first housing part (210)) can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (362) according to the rotation of the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (361).

[0083] The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (361) may include a first gear (g21), a second gear (g22), a third gear (g23), a fourth gear (g24), a fifth gear (g25), and a sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21) may be arranged adjacent to the third hinge plate (362), and the sixth gear (g26) may be arranged adjacent to the fourth hinge plate (363). The second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), and the fifth gear (g25) may be arranged between the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21), the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), the fifth gear (g25), and the sixth gear (g26) can be sequentially meshed. According to the rotation of the first rotation direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g21), the second gear (g22) meshed with the first gear (g21) can be rotated in a second rotation direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the second rotation direction of the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23) meshed with the second gear (g22) can be rotated in the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the first rotation direction of the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the second rotation direction. As the fourth gear (g24) rotates in the second rotation direction, the fifth gear (g25) meshed with the fourth gear (g24) can rotate in the first rotation direction. As the fifth gear (g25) rotates in the first rotation direction, the sixth gear (g26) meshed with the fifth gear (g25) can rotate in the second rotation direction. As the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26) rotate in different directions, the second housing part (220) connected to the third hinge plate (362) and the first housing part (210) connected to the fourth hinge plate (363) can be folded or unfolded.

[0084] The first hinge structure (250) and the second hinge structure (260) may further include a spiral structure. The spiral structure may include a spiral groove formed on each hinge plate or a rotating member connected to the hinge plate, and a moving member sliding along the spiral groove. The hinge plates connected to the hinge structure may be configured to rotate at substantially the same angular displacement through the spiral structure.

[0085] The electronic device (200) may include a first printed circuit board (371), a second printed circuit board (372), and a third printed circuit board (373).

[0086] The first printed circuit board (371) can be placed on the third support portion (231) of the third housing part (230). Hardware components within the third housing part (230) can be mounted on the first printed circuit board (371).

[0087] A second printed circuit board (372) may be placed on a second support portion (221) of a second housing part (220). Hardware components within the second housing part (220) may include at least one processor (e.g., an application processor (AP), a communication processor (CP)) including a processing circuit mounted on the second printed circuit board (372), a memory including one or more storage media, a communication circuit, and a rear camera (275). The rear camera (275) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the second housing part (220).

[0088] A third printed circuit board (373) may be placed on the first support portion (211) of the first housing part (210). Hardware components within the first housing part (210) may be mounted on the third printed circuit board (373). The hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (373) may support the hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (372) or operate independently. The hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (373) may include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0089] The hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (371) can support or operate independently of the hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (372) and / or the hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (373).

[0090] The electronic device (200) may further include a sub-printed circuit board (375) and flexible printed circuit boards (380, 290). The sub-printed circuit board (375) may be disposed on at least some of the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230). The flexible printed circuit boards (380, 390) may include a first flexible printed circuit board (380) and a second flexible printed circuit board (390). The first flexible printed circuit board (380) may electrically connect printed circuit boards disposed on each of the housing parts (210, 220, 230). The second flexible printed circuit board (390) may connect the sub-printed circuit board (375) to a printed circuit board within the housing part in which the sub-printed circuit board (375) is disposed by the second flexible printed circuit board (390).

[0091] Electronic components within the electronic device (200) may be connected to at least one processor within the second printed circuit board (372) via flexible printed circuit boards (380, 290). For example, a signal received from an antenna disposed in the first housing part (210) may be transmitted to the second printed circuit board (372) on which at least one processor (e.g., an AP or CP) is disposed via a signal path (a) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (380). A driving circuit for the flexible display (240) disposed within the third housing part (230) may be connected to the second printed circuit board (372) on which at least one processor (e.g., an AP) is disposed via a signal path (b) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (380). A driving circuit for a display (270) connected to a sub-printed circuit board (375) disposed on a third housing part (230) may be electrically connected to a second printed circuit board (372) on which at least one processor (e.g., AP) is disposed via a signal path (c) provided by the sub-printed circuit board (375) and the first flexible printed circuit board (380) and the second flexible printed circuit board (390). The electronic device (200) may further include batteries. Each of the batteries may be attached to support parts (211, 221, 231) included in the housing parts (210, 220, 230). The support parts (211, 221, 231) may support rechargeable batteries.

[0092] The arrangement of hardware components is exemplary, and differently from the above, the rear camera (275) and the second printed circuit board (372) may be arranged in the first housing part (210), and the third printed circuit board (373) may be arranged in the second housing part (220).

[0093] Although the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (230) are shown as rotating in opposite directions with respect to the second housing part (220), this is not limited thereto. For example, during the change from the first state (200a) to the third state (200c), the third housing part (230) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (220), and the first housing part (210) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (220). As the third housing part (230) and the first housing part (210) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (240) within the second state may be visually exposed.

[0094] Figures 4a and 4b illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices. Figure 4a illustrates an example of a first state of the electronic device. Figure 4b illustrates an example of a second state of the electronic device. The electronic device (400) may be referred to as the electronic device (101).

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the electronic device (400) may include a housing structure (401), a flexible display (440), a first hinge structure (450), and a second hinge structure (460). The first housing structure (401) may include a first housing part (410), a second housing part (420), and a third housing part (430).

[0096] The first housing part (410) can be rotatably coupled to the third housing part (430) by the first hinge structure (450). The third housing part (430) and the first housing part (410) can rotate with respect to the first hinge structure (450). The first hinge structure (450) can cause the second housing part (430) to rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the first housing part (410). While the first housing part (410) rotates with respect to the first hinge structure (450), the third housing part (430) can rotate with respect to the first hinge structure (450). For example, when the third housing part (430) and the first housing part (410) are rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (450), the angular displacement of the third housing part (430) may be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the first housing part (410).

[0097] The second housing part (420) can be rotatably coupled to the third housing part (430) by the second hinge structure (460). The second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430) can rotate with respect to the second hinge structure (460). The second hinge structure (460) can cause the second housing part (420) to rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the third housing part (430). While the second housing part (420) rotates with respect to the second hinge structure (460), the third housing part (430) can rotate with respect to the second hinge structure (460). For example, when the second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430) rotate with respect to the second hinge structure (460), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (420) may be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the third housing part (430).

[0098] The first hinge structure (450) and the second hinge structure (460) can change the state of the electronic device (400). The first hinge structure (450) and the second hinge structure (460) can provide (or enable) a first state (400a) of the electronic device (400) (or a first state (400a) of the housing structure (401)). The first state (400a) of the electronic device (400) (or the first state (400a) of the housing structure (401)) can be described as an unfolded state (or an unfolded state) of the electronic device (400) (or the housing structure (401)). Within the first state (400a), the front surface of the second housing part (420), the front surface of the third housing part (430), and the front surface of the first housing part (410) can define the front surface of the electronic device (400). Within the first state (400a), the front surface of the second housing part (420), the front surface of the third housing part (430), and the front surface of the first housing part (410) can face the same direction. Within the first state (400a), the electronic device (400) can provide a large display area of ​​the flexible display (440) to the user.

[0099] The first hinge structure (450) and the second hinge structure (460) can provide a second state (400b) of the electronic device (400) (or a second state (400b) of the housing structure (401)). The second state (400b) of the electronic device (400) (or the second state (400b) of the housing structure (401)) can be described as a folded state (or a multi-folding state or a folding state) of the electronic device (400) (or the housing structure (401)). While the state of the electronic device (400) changes from the first state (400a) to the second state (400b), the rotational direction of the second housing part (420) with respect to the third housing part (430) can be the same as the rotational direction of the first housing part (410) with respect to the third housing part (430).

[0100] Within the second state (400b), the front of the second housing part (420) and the front of the third housing part (430) may face in opposite directions, and the front of the third housing part (430) and the front of the first housing part (410) may face in opposite directions. For example, within the second state (400b), the front of the second housing part (420) may face the front of the third housing part (430), and the rear of the third housing part (430) may face the front of the first housing part (410). Within the second state (400b), the electronic device (400) may be folded to enhance portability. Within the folded state, visual information may be provided through a portion of a display area (e.g., the third display area (440c)) of a display (440) disposed on the outside of the electronic device (400).

[0101] And the second hinge structure (460) can provide a third state of the electronic device (400). The third state of the electronic device (400) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (400) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folded state, a half folded state, or a semi-folded state). For example, within the third state, the front surface of the third housing part (430) and the front surface of the first housing part (410) may face the same direction, and the front surface of the second housing part (420) may face the front surface of the third housing part (430). For example, within the third state, the second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430) may be folded, and the third housing part (430) and the first housing part (410) may be unfolded.

[0102] However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and within the third state, the front surface of the second housing part (420) and the front surface of the third housing part (430) may face the same direction, and the rear surface of the second housing part (410) may face the rear surface of the first housing part (410). For example, within the third state, the third housing part (430) and the first housing part (410) may be folded, and the second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430) may be unfolded. The electronic device (400) may change from the first state (400a) to the second state (400b) through the third state. The electronic device (400) may change from the first state (400a), which is an unfolded state, to the third state, which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (400) can change from a first state (400a) in which the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430) face the same direction, to a third state in which the front of the second housing part (420) faces the front of the third housing part (430). The electronic device (400) can change from a third state (400c) in which the electronic device is partially unfolded, to a second state (400b) in which the electronic device is folded. For example, when changing from the third state (400c) to the second state (400b), the folded second housing part (420) and third housing part (430) can be placed on the first housing part (410). As the state of the electronic device (400) changes to the second state (400b), the rear surface of the third housing part (430) folded with respect to the second housing part (420) may face the rear surface of the first housing part (410).

[0103] A flexible display (440) can at least partially define the exterior appearance of the electronic device (400). The flexible display (440) can be partially disposed within the housing structure (401). The flexible display (440) can define the front surface of the electronic device (400). The flexible display (440) can include a first unbendable portion (441), a second unbendable portion (442), a third unbendable portion (443), a first bendable portion (444), and a second bendable portion (445). The first unbendable portion (441) of the flexible display (440) can be disposed on the front surface of the second housing part (420). The second unbendable portion (442) of the flexible display (440) can be disposed on the front surface of the third housing part (430). The third unbendable part (443) of the flexible display (440) may be disposed on the front side of the first housing part (410). The first bendable part (444) of the flexible display (440) may be disposed between the first unbendable part (441) and the second unbendable part (442) of the flexible display (440). For example, the first bendable part (444) of the flexible display (440) may be disposed on the second hinge structure (460) connecting the second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430). The second bendable part (445) of the flexible display (440) may be disposed between the second unbendable part (442) and the third unbendable part (443) of the flexible display (440). For example, the second bendable portion (445) of the flexible display (440) may be placed on the first hinge structure (450) connecting the second housing part (420) and the third housing part (430).

[0104] The first hinge structure (450) and the second hinge structure (460) may be oriented in substantially the same direction as the first unbendable portion (441) of the flexible display (440), the second unbendable portion (442) of the flexible display (440), and the third unbendable portion (443) of the flexible display (440). In the first state (400a), the first bendable portion (444) and the second bendable portion (445) may be arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (441), the second unbendable portion (442), and the third unbendable portion (443).

[0105] The first hinge structure (450) and the second hinge structure (460) can provide a second state (400b) of the electronic device (400). In the second state (400b), the first unbendable portion (441) of the flexible display (440) faces the third unbendable portion (443) of the flexible display (440), and the second unbendable portion (442) of the flexible display (440) can be seen through the front of the third housing part (430). In the second state (400b), the first bendable portion (444) of the flexible display (440) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (441) of the flexible display (440) and the second unbendable portion (442) of the flexible display (440) face different directions. Within the second state (400b), the second bendable portion (445) of the flexible display (440) can be folded such that the first unbendable portion (441) of the flexible display (440) and the third unbendable portion (443) of the flexible display (440) face different directions.

[0106] In the first state (400a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (440) can be seen from the front of the housing structure (401). For example, the first display area (440a), the second display area (440b), and the third display area (440c) of the flexible display (440) can be visually exposed. The electronic device (400) can provide a user with a large display area including the first display area (440a), the second display area (440b), and the third display area (440c) in the first state (400a). In the second state (400b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (440) can be partially seen. For example, the first display area (440a) and the second display area (440b) of the flexible display (440) may not be visually exposed, and the third display area (440c) may be visually exposed.

[0107] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (440) is used to display a screen within a first state (400a) of the electronic device (400), the first display area (440a), the second display area (440b), and the third display area (440c) of the flexible display (440) may be activated. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (440) is used to display a screen within a second state of the electronic device (400), the third display area (440c) may be activated, and the first display area (440a) and the second display area (440b) of the flexible display (440) may be deactivated.

[0108] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (440) is used to display a screen within a first state (400a) of the electronic device (400), the first display area (440a), the second display area (440b), and the third display area (440c) of the flexible display (440) can display visual information. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (440) of the electronic device (400) is used to display a screen within a second state (400b) or a third state, the third display area (440c) can provide visual information, and the first display area (440a) and the second display area (440b) of the flexible display (440) can provide a black image.

[0109] Although the third housing part (430) and the first housing part (410) are shown as rotating in the same direction with respect to the second housing part (420), this is not limited thereto. For example, during the change from the first state (400a) to the second state (400b), the second housing part (420) may rotate clockwise with respect to the third housing part (430), and the first housing part (410) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the third housing part (430). As the second housing part (420) and the first housing part (410) rotate in different directions, the display area of ​​the flexible display (440) within the second state may be deactivated without being visually exposed.

[0110] FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, and 6B illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices. FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a first state of the electronic device. FIG. 5B illustrates an example of a second state of the electronic device. FIG. 5C illustrates an example of a third state of the electronic device. The electronic device (500) may be referred to as the electronic device (101).

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, an electronic device (500) may include a housing structure (501), a flexible display (540), a first hinge structure (550), a second hinge structure (560), and a display (570). The housing structure (501) may include a first housing part (510), a second housing part (520), and a third housing part (530).

[0112] The first housing part (510) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (520) by a first hinge structure (550). The second housing part (520) and the first housing part (510) can be rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (550). While the second housing part (520) is rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (550), the first housing part (510) can be rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (550). For example, when the second housing part (520) and the first housing part (510) are rotated with respect to the first hinge structure (550), the angular displacement (or angular change) of the second housing part (520) can be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the first housing part (510).

[0113] The third housing part (530) can be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (520) by a second hinge structure (560). The second housing part (520) and the third housing part (530) can be rotated with respect to the second hinge structure (560). While the third housing part (530) is rotated with respect to the second hinge structure (560), the second housing part (520) can be rotated with respect to the second hinge structure (560). For example, when the second housing part (520) and the third housing part (530) are rotated with respect to the second hinge structure (560), the angular displacement of the second housing part (520) can be substantially equal to the angular displacement of the third housing part (530).

[0114] The first hinge structure (550) and the second hinge structure (560) can change the state of the electronic device. The first hinge structure (550) and the second hinge structure (560) can provide (or enable) a first state (500a) of the electronic device (500) (or a first state (500a) of the housing structure (501)). The first state (500a) of the electronic device (500) (or the first state (500a) of the housing structure (501)) can be described as an unfolded state (or an unfolded state) of the electronic device (500) (or the housing structure (501)). Within the first state (500a), the front surface of the third housing part (530), the front surface of the second housing part (520), and the front surface of the first housing part (510) can define the front surface of the electronic device (500). Within the first state (500a), the front of the third housing part (530), the front of the second housing part (520), and the front of the first housing part (510) can face the same direction. Within the first state (500a), the electronic device (500) can provide a large display area of ​​the flexible display (540) to the user.

[0115] The first hinge structure (550) and the second hinge structure (560) can provide a second state (500b) of the electronic device (500). The second state (500b) of the electronic device (500) can be described as a state in which the electronic device (500) is partially folded and partially unfolded (or a single folded state, a half-folded state, or a semi-folded state). For example, within the second state (500b), the front surface of the second housing part (520) and the front surface of the first housing part (510) may face the same direction, and the front surface of the third housing part (530) and the front surface of the second housing part (520) may face opposite directions. For example, within the third state, the third housing part (530) and the second housing part (520) may be folded, and the second housing part (520) and the first housing part (510) may be unfolded. Within the second state (500b), the electronic device (500) can provide visual information through a portion of the flexible display (540) (e.g., the third display area (540c)).

[0116] The electronic device (500) can change from the first state (500a) to the third state (500c) through the second state (500b). The electronic device (500) can change from the first state (500a), which is an unfolded state, to the second state (500b), which is a partially unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (500) can change from the first state (500a), in which the third housing part (530), the second housing part (520), and the first housing part (510) face the same direction, to the second state (500b), in which the front of the third housing part (530) faces the front of the second housing part (520). The electronic device (500) can change from the second state (500b), which is a partially unfolded state, to the third state (500c), which is a folded state. For example, when changing from the second state (500b) to the third state (500c), the folded third housing part (530) and the second housing part (520) can be placed on the first housing part (510).

[0117] The first hinge structure (550) and the second hinge structure (560) can provide a third state (500c) of the electronic device (500) (or a third state (500c) of the housing structure (501)). The third state (500c) of the electronic device (500) (or the third state (500c) of the housing structure (501)) can be described as a folded state (or a folding state, a multi-folding state, or a full-folding state) of the electronic device (500) (or the housing structure (501)). Within the third state (500c), the front surface of the third housing part (530) and the front surface of the second housing part (520) can face opposite directions, and the front surface of the second housing part (520) and the front surface of the first housing part (510) can face opposite directions. Within the third state (500c), the front of the third housing part (530) and the front of the first housing part (510) may face the same direction. For example, within the third state (500c), the front of the second housing part (520) may face the front of the third housing part (530), and the front of the first housing part (510) may face the rear of the third housing part (530). Within the third state (500c), the rear of the second housing part (520) may be exposed to the outside. The camera (575) may be disposed on the rear of the second housing part (520). Within the third state (500c), the rear of the first housing part (510) may be exposed to the outside. The display (570) may be disposed on the rear of the first housing part (510). Within the third state (500c), the electronic device (500) can be folded to improve portability and provide visual information through a display (570) disposed in the first housing part (510) of the electronic device (500) in the third state (500c).

[0118] The electronic device (500) may further include a key button (539). The key button (539) may be exposed from a structure (e.g., an opening) formed on a side of the first housing part (510) and may partially protrude outside the electronic device (500). The key button (539) may physically provide an input to a processing circuit inside the electronic device (500) by pressure transmitted from the outside. The key button (539) may not be included in the electronic device (500) and may be implemented in another form, such as a soft key displayed on a flexible display (540) or a display (570).

[0119] The key button (539) may be positioned on the side of the first housing part (510) so as to be exposed to the outside in the third state (500c). The key button positioned on the first housing part (510) may move from the left side of the electronic device (500) to the right side of the electronic device (500) as the state of the electronic device (500) changes from the third state (500c) to the first state (500a) by a user looking at the display. For example, referring to FIG. 5a, in the first state (500a), when the flexible display (540) is viewed from above, the key button (539) may be positioned on the right side. Referring to FIG. 5b, in the third state (500c), when the display (570) is viewed from above, the key button (539) may be positioned on the left side.

[0120] A flexible display (540) can at least partially define the exterior appearance of the electronic device (500). The flexible display (540) can be partially disposed within the housing structure (501). The flexible display (540) can define the front surface of the electronic device (500). The flexible display (540) can include a first unbendable portion (541), a second unbendable portion (542), a third unbendable portion (543), a first bendable portion (544), and a second bendable portion (545). The first unbendable portion (541) of the flexible display (540) can be disposed on the front surface of the third housing part (530). The second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540) can be disposed on the front surface of the second housing part (520). The third unbendable part (543) of the flexible display (540) may be disposed on the front side of the first housing part (510). The first bendable part (544) of the flexible display (540) may be disposed between the first unbendable part (541) and the second unbendable part (542) of the flexible display (540). For example, the first bendable part (544) of the flexible display (540) may be disposed on the second hinge structure (560) connecting the third housing part (530) and the second housing part (520). The second bendable part (545) of the flexible display (540) may be disposed between the second unbendable part (542) and the third unbendable part (543) of the flexible display (540). For example, the second bendable portion (545) of the flexible display (540) may be placed on the first hinge structure (550) connecting the second housing part (520) and the first housing part (510).

[0121] The first hinge structure (550) and the second hinge structure (560) may face substantially the same direction as the first unbendable portion (541) of the flexible display (540), the second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540), and the third unbendable portion (543) of the flexible display (540). In the first state (500a), the first bendable portion (544) and the second bendable portion (545) may be arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane as the first unbendable portion (541), the second unbendable portion (542), and the third unbendable portion (543).

[0122] The first hinge structure (550) and the second hinge structure (560) can provide a second state (500b) of the electronic device (500). Within the second state (500b), the first unbendable portion (541) of the flexible display (540) can face the second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540), and the third unbendable portion (543) of the flexible display (540) can face the same direction as the second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540). For example, the second unbendable portion (542) and the third unbendable portion (543) can be arranged in substantially the same horizontal plane.

[0123] In the second state (500b), the first bendable portion (544) of the flexible display (540) is bent by the second hinge structure (560), so that the first bendable portion (544) of the flexible display (540) can be folded so that the first unbendable portion (541) of the flexible display (540) and the second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540) face different directions.

[0124] In the second state (500b), the second bendable portion (545) of the flexible display (540) is maintained in an unfolded state by the first hinge structure (550), so that the second bendable portion (545) of the flexible display (540) can unfold so that the second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540) and the third unbendable portion (543) of the flexible display (540) face the same direction.

[0125] The first hinge structure (550) and the second hinge structure (560) can provide a third state (500c) of the electronic device (500). In the third state (500c), the second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540) can face the first unbendable portion (541) of the flexible display (540), and the third unbendable portion (543) of the flexible display (540) can face the back of the third housing part (530).

[0126] In the third state (500c), the first bendable portion (544) of the flexible display (540) is bent by the second hinge structure (560), so that the first bendable portion (544) of the flexible display (540) can be folded so that the first unbendable portion (541) of the flexible display (540) and the second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540) face different directions.

[0127] In the third state (500c), the second bendable portion (545) of the flexible display (540) is bent by the first hinge structure (550), so that the second bendable portion (545) of the flexible display (540) can be folded such that the second unbendable portion (542) of the flexible display (540) and the third unbendable portion (543) of the flexible display (540) face different directions. The second bendable portion (545) may further include a first deformable portion (545a), a second deformable portion (545b), and a flat portion (545c). The first deformable portion (545a) may be disposed between the planar portion (545c) and the second unbendable portion (542), and the second deformable portion (545b) may be disposed between the planar portion (545c) and the third unbendable portion (543). The planar portion (545c) may be disposed between the first deformable portion (545a) and the second deformable portion (545b). The planar portion (545c) may be supported by a support plate (e.g., the support plate (664) of FIG. 6a) that is distinct from the hinge plates of the first hinge structure (550) (e.g., the third hinge plate (662) and the fourth hinge plate (663) of FIG. 6a). Regardless of the state of the electronic device (500), the planar portion (545c) may remain flat. The first deformable portion (545a) and the second deformable portion (545b) can be unfolded in the first state (500a) and the second state (500b), and in the third state (500c), the first deformable portion (545a) and the second deformable portion (545b) can be folded so that the second unbendable portion (542) and the third unbendable portion (543) face different directions.

[0128] Within the third state (500c), the third housing part (530) can be positioned between the second housing part (520) and the first housing part (510). Within the third state (500c), the second bendable portion (545) of the flexible display (540) positioned on the first hinge structure (550) can be partially directed toward the side surface (530c) of the third housing part (530).

[0129] The display area of ​​the flexible display (540) may include a first display area (540a), a second display area (540b), and a third display area (540c). The display area represents an area that can provide visual information from the flexible display (540). In the first state (500a), the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (540) may be visible from the front of the housing structure (501). For example, in the first state (500a), the first display area (540a), the second display area (540b), and the third display area (540c) of the flexible display (540) may be visually exposed. The electronic device (500) may provide a large display area to the user that includes the first display area (540a), the second display area (540b), and the third display area (540c).

[0130] Within the second state (500b), the display area of ​​the flexible display (540) may be partially visible from the front of the first housing part (510). For example, the third unbendable portion (543) may be visually exposed, and the first display area (540a) and the second display area (540b) may not be visually exposed.

[0131] Within the third state (500c), the display area of ​​the flexible display (540) may not be visible. For example, within the third state (500c), the first display area (540a), the second display area (540b), and the third display area (540c) of the flexible display (540) may not be visually exposed.

[0132] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (540) is used to display a screen within a first state (500a) of the electronic device (500), the first display area (540a), the second display area (540b), and the third display area (540c) of the flexible display (540) may be activated. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (540) is used to display a screen within a second state (500b) of the electronic device (500), the third display area (540c) may be activated, and the first display area (540a) and the second display area (540b) of the flexible display (540) may be deactivated. As a non-limiting example, within the third state (500c) of the electronic device (500), the first display area (540a), the second display area (540b), and the third display area (540c) of the flexible display (540) may be deactivated.

[0133] As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (540) is used to display a screen within a first state (500a) of the electronic device (500), the first display area (540a), the second display area (540b), and the third display area (540c) of the flexible display (540) can display visual information. As a non-limiting example, when the flexible display (540) is used to display a screen within a second state (500b) of the electronic device (500), the third display area (540c) can provide visual information, and the first display area (540a) and the second display area (540b) of the flexible display (540) can provide a black image. As a non-limiting example, within the third state (500c), the first display area (540a), the second display area (540b), and the third display area (540c) of the flexible display (540) can provide a black image.

[0134] Figure 6a is a plan view of an electronic device with the flexible display removed. Figure 6b is a rear view of the electronic device with the back cover and display removed.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the electronic device (500) may include a second hinge structure (560) and a first hinge structure (550). A first width (w1) of the second hinge structure (560) may be narrower than a second width (w2) of the first hinge structure (550). A difference between the first width (w1) of the second hinge structure (560) and the second width (w2) of the first hinge structure (550) may be equal to or greater than a thickness of the third housing part (530). For example, the first hinge structure (550) may have a second width (w2) that is wider than the first width (w1) such that the third housing part (530) is disposed between the second housing part (520) and the first housing part (510) according to the third state (500c). The second hinge structure (560) may be referred to as a narrow hinge structure in that it has a narrower width than the first hinge structure (550). The first hinge structure (550) may be referred to as a wide hinge structure in that it has a wider width than the second hinge structure (560).

[0136] The second hinge structure (560) may include a first set of gears (651), a first hinge plate (652), and a second hinge plate (653). The first hinge plate (652) may be coupled to a third support portion (531) of a third housing part (530). The second hinge plate (653) may be coupled to a second support portion (521) of a second housing part (520). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (651) may be configured to rotate the first hinge plate (652) and the second hinge plate (653). For example, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (651) can rotate the second hinge plate (653) (or the second housing part (520)) in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (652) (or the third housing part (530)). When the first hinge plate (652) (or the third housing part (530)) rotates, the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (651) can rotate in accordance with the rotation of the first hinge plate (652) (or the third housing part (530)). The second hinge plate (653) (or the second housing part (520)) can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the first hinge plate (652) according to the rotation of the gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (651). The gears (g11, g12, g13, g14) included in the first set of gears (651) can include a first gear (g11), a second gear (g12), a third gear (g13), and a fourth gear (g14). The first gear (g11) can be arranged adjacent to the first hinge plate (652), and the fourth gear (g14) can be arranged adjacent to the second hinge plate (653). The second gear (g12) and the third gear (g13) can be arranged between the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14).The first gear (g11), the second gear (g12), the third gear (g13), and the fourth gear (g14) can be sequentially meshed. According to the rotation of the first gear (g11) in the first rotation direction (e.g., clockwise), the second gear (g12) meshed with the first gear (g11) can be rotated in the second rotation direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the second gear (g12) in the second rotation direction, the third gear (g13) meshed with the second gear (g12) can be rotated in the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the third gear (g13) in the first rotation direction, the fourth gear (g14) can be rotated in the second rotation direction. As the first gear (g11) and the fourth gear (g14) rotate in different directions, the third housing part (530) connected to the first hinge plate (652) and the second housing part (520) connected to the second hinge plate (653) can be folded or unfolded.

[0137] The first hinge structure (550) may include a second set of gears (661), a third hinge plate (662), a fourth hinge plate (663), and a support plate (664). The third hinge plate (662) may be coupled to a second support portion (521) of the second housing part (520). The fourth hinge plate (663) may be coupled to a first support portion (511) of the first housing part (510). The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (661) may be configured to rotate the third hinge plate (662) and the fourth hinge plate (663). For example, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (661) can rotate the fourth hinge plate (663) (or the first housing part (510)) in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (662) (or the second housing part (520)). After the third hinge plate (662) (or the second housing part (520)) is rotated, the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (661) can be rotated in accordance with the rotation of the third hinge plate (662) (or the second housing part (520)). The fourth hinge plate (663) (or the first housing part (510)) can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the third hinge plate (662) according to the rotation of the gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (661).

[0138] The gears (g21, g22, g23, g24, g25, g26) included in the second set of gears (661) may include a first gear (g21), a second gear (g22), a third gear (g23), a fourth gear (g24), a fifth gear (g25), and a sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21) may be arranged adjacent to the third hinge plate (662), and the sixth gear (g26) may be arranged adjacent to the fourth hinge plate (663). The second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), and the fifth gear (g25) may be arranged between the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26). The first gear (g21), the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24), the fifth gear (g25), and the sixth gear (g26) can be sequentially meshed. According to the rotation of the first rotation direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first gear (g21), the second gear (g22) meshed with the first gear (g21) can be rotated in a second rotation direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the second rotation direction of the second gear (g22), the third gear (g23) meshed with the second gear (g22) can be rotated in the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the first rotation direction of the third gear (g23), the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the second rotation direction. According to the rotation of the fourth gear (g24) in the second rotation direction, the fifth gear (g25) meshed with the fourth gear (g24) can be rotated in the first rotation direction. According to the rotation of the fifth gear (g25) in the first rotation direction, the sixth gear (g26) meshed with the fifth gear (g25) can be rotated in the second rotation direction. As the first gear (g21) and the sixth gear (g26) rotate in different directions, the second housing part (520) connected to the third hinge plate (662) and the first housing part (510) connected to the fourth hinge plate (663) can be folded or unfolded.

[0139] The first hinge structure (550) and the second hinge structure (560) may further include a spiral structure. The spiral structure may include a spiral groove formed on each hinge plate or a rotating member connected to the hinge plate, and a moving member sliding along the spiral groove. The hinge plates connected to the hinge structure may be configured to rotate at substantially the same angular displacement through the spiral structure.

[0140] The electronic device (500) may include a first printed circuit board (671), a second printed circuit board (672), and a third printed circuit board (673).

[0141] The first printed circuit board (671) may be placed on the third support portion (531) of the third housing part (530). Hardware components within the third housing part (530) may be mounted on the first printed circuit board (671).

[0142] A second printed circuit board (672) may be disposed on a second support portion (521) of a second housing part (520). Hardware components within the second housing part (520) may include at least one processor (e.g., an application processor (AP), a communication processor (CP)) including a processing circuit mounted on the second printed circuit board (672), a memory including one or more storage media, a communication circuit, and a rear camera (575). The rear camera (575) may be exposed through a structure (e.g., an opening) on ​​the rear of the second housing part (520).

[0143] A third printed circuit board (673) may be placed on the first support portion (511) of the first housing part (510). Hardware components within the first housing part (510) may be mounted on the third printed circuit board (673). The hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (673) may support the hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (672) or operate independently. The hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (673) may include a speaker, a front camera, and / or a display driving circuit.

[0144] The hardware components placed on the first printed circuit board (671) can support or operate independently of the hardware components placed on the second printed circuit board (672) and / or the hardware components placed on the third printed circuit board (673).

[0145] The electronic device (500) may further include a sub-printed circuit board (675) and flexible printed circuit boards (680, 690). The sub-printed circuit board (675) may be disposed on at least some of the third housing part (530), the second housing part (520), and the first housing part (510). The flexible printed circuit boards (680, 690) may include a first flexible printed circuit board (680) and a second flexible printed circuit board (690). The first flexible printed circuit board (680) may electrically connect printed circuit boards disposed on each of the housing parts (510, 520, 530). The second flexible printed circuit board (690) may connect the sub-printed circuit board (675) to a printed circuit board within the housing part in which the sub-printed circuit board (675) is disposed by the second flexible printed circuit board (690).

[0146] Electronic components within the electronic device (500) may be connected to at least one processor within the second printed circuit board (672) via flexible printed circuit boards (680, 690). For example, a signal received from an antenna disposed in the first housing part (510) may be transmitted to the second printed circuit board (672) on which at least one processor (e.g., an AP or CP) is disposed via a signal path (a) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (680). A driving circuit for a flexible display (540) disposed within the third housing part (530) may be connected to the second printed circuit board (672) on which at least one processor (e.g., an AP) is disposed via a signal path (b) provided by the first flexible printed circuit board (680). A driving circuit for a display (570) connected to a sub-printed circuit board (675) disposed on a third housing part (530) may be electrically connected to a second printed circuit board (672) on which at least one processor (e.g., AP) is disposed via a signal path (c) provided by the sub-printed circuit board (675) and the first flexible printed circuit board (680) and the second flexible printed circuit board (690). The electronic device (500) may further include batteries. Each of the batteries may be attached to support parts (511, 521, 531) included in the housing parts (510, 520, 530). The support parts (511, 521, 531) may support rechargeable batteries.

[0147] The arrangement of hardware components is exemplary, and differently from the above, the rear camera (575) and the second printed circuit board (672) may be arranged in the first housing part (510), and the third printed circuit board (673) may be arranged in the second housing part (520).

[0148] Although the third housing part (530) and the first housing part (510) are shown as rotating in opposite directions with respect to the second housing part (520), this is not limited thereto. For example, during the change from the first state (500a) to the third state (500c), the third housing part (530) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (520), and the first housing part (510) may rotate counterclockwise with respect to the second housing part (520). As the third housing part (530) and the first housing part (510) rotate in the same direction, a portion of the display area of ​​the flexible display (540) within the second state may be visually exposed.

[0149] FIG. 7 illustrates examples of states (e.g., a first state (200a), a second state (200b), or a third state (200c)) of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101), an electronic device (200)).

[0150] Referring to FIG. 7, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (230). A first hinge structure (250) may rotatably couple the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). A second hinge structure (260) may rotatably couple the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230).

[0151] The first state (701) represents a state in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (330) are all unfolded. The first state (701) may be referred to as an unfolded state or an unfolded state. The first state (701) may correspond to the first state (200a) of FIG. 2A. The second state (702) represents a state in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (330) are all folded. The second state (702) may be referred to as a folded state, a multi-folded state, or a fully folded state. The second state (702) may correspond to the third state (200c) of FIG. 2C. The third state (703) represents a state in which the first housing part (210) is folded, and the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (230) are unfolded. The third state (703) may be referred to as a first single folding state, a first half folding state, or a first semi-folded state. The fourth state (704) represents a state in which the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are unfolded, and the third housing part (230) is folded. The fourth state (704) may be referred to as a second single folding state, a second half folding state, or a second semi-folded state. The fourth state (704) may correspond to the second state (200b) of FIG. 2b.

[0152] The electronic device (101) may include an antenna. For example, the electronic device (101) may use a portion (e.g., a conductive portion (711)) of a metal frame of the first housing part (210) as a radiator of the antenna. For example, the conductive portion (711) may be formed on the outside of the metal frame of the first housing part (210) and may span the side and bottom of the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may transmit or receive signals using the conductive portion (711). In the first state (701), the conductive portion (711) is positioned in an open space, so antenna performance can be secured. However, in the second state (702), a portion (e.g., a portion formed on the side) of the conductive portion (711) may overlap with the second hinge structure (260). In the second state (702), as the second hinge structure (260) is disposed adjacent to the conductive portion (711), the antenna performance of the conductive portion (711) may be degraded. In addition, in the third state (703), a part of the conductive portion (711) (e.g., a part formed on the side) may overlap with a region of the flexible display (240). In the third state (703), as a region of the flexible display (240) is disposed adjacent to the conductive portion (711), the antenna performance of the conductive portion (711) may be degraded. In other words, since the region facing the conductive portion (711) is a part of the second hinge structure (260) or the flexible display (240), the second hinge structure (260) or the flexible display (240) may affect the radiation of the conductive portion (711).

[0153] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate examples of differences in antenna performance in a folded state and an unfolded state, respectively, in a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) or electronic device (200)).

[0154] Referring to Fig. 8a, the graph (800a) shows the reflection coefficient (S-parameter: S) for an antenna (e.g., an antenna using a conductive portion (711) as a radiator). 11 ) is shown. The horizontal axis of the graph (800a) represents frequency (unit: GHz (gigahertz)) and the vertical axis of the graph (800a) represents reflection coefficient (unit: dB (decibel)). The first line (801) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the first state (701), and the second line (802) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the second state (702). When the first line (801) and the second line (802) are compared, it can be confirmed that the size of the reflection coefficient decreases when the electronic device (101) is folded.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 8b, a graph (800b) represents radiation efficiency for an antenna (e.g., an antenna using a conductive portion (711) as a radiator). The horizontal axis of the graph (800b) represents frequency (unit: GHz), and the vertical axis of the graph (800b) represents radiation efficiency. A first line (851) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in a first state (701), and a second line (852) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in a second state (702). Comparing the first line (851) and the second line (852), it can be confirmed that when the electronic device (101) is folded, the radiation efficiency decreases by about 34%.

[0156] In the present disclosure, a technique for securing a specified antenna performance is described when an antenna having a portion (e.g., a conductive portion (711)) formed on a side surface of a multi-foldable type electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101), an electronic device (200), an electronic device (300), or an electronic device (500)) exemplified through FIGS. 2A to 6B overlaps with a hinge structure (e.g., a second hinge structure (260)) or a display (e.g., a flexible display (240)). In order to reduce the degree of structural overlap, a method of increasing the protrusion amount of the antenna relative to the hinge structure (260) may be considered, but this may be inefficient in terms of freedom in designing and improving performance of the antenna. An electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (300), or electronic device (500)) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a circuit structure for forming additional resonance for a conductive portion of a housing part (e.g., a first housing part (210)) in which the antenna is formed and another housing part (e.g., a second housing part (220) or a third housing part (230)) in order to secure performance of the antenna.

[0157] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a foldable-type electronic device having a switching circuit for resonance (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)).

[0158] Referring to FIG. 9, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (910), a second housing part (920), and a third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (960) configured to rotatably couple the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C. The first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) may correspond to the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230), respectively. The hinge structure (960) may correspond to the second hinge structure (260). For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (400) of FIGS. 4A and 4B. The first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) may correspond to the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430), respectively. The hinge structure (960) may correspond to the second hinge structure (460). For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (500) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C. The first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) may correspond to the first housing part (510), the second housing part (520), and the third housing part (530), respectively. The hinge structure (960) can correspond to the second hinge structure (560).

[0159] In one embodiment, the metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions. A non-conductive portion may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set. For example, the first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (911) and a conductive portion (912). The first housing part (910) may include a non-conductive portion (971) between one end of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (912), and may include a non-conductive portion (972) adjacent to the other end of the conductive portion (911).

[0160] In one embodiment, the metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions. A non-conductive portion may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the second set. For example, the second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921) and a conductive portion (922). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive portion (981) between the conductive portions (921) and the conductive portions (922).

[0161] In one embodiment, the metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of externally visible conductive portions. A non-conductive portion may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the third set of conductive portions. For example, the third housing part (930) may include a conductive portion (931) and a conductive portion (932). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive portion (991) between the conductive portions (931) and the conductive portions (932).

[0162] The electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive signals. For example, the conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna. For example, a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a communication module (190) of FIG. 1) within the electronic device (101) may provide signals to the conductive portion (911) via a feeding unit (940). For example, the wireless communication circuit may be disposed on a PCB (e.g., a third printed circuit board (373) or a third printed circuit board (673)) of the first housing part (910). The wireless communication circuit may be electrically connected to the conductive portion (911) as the feeding unit (940) via wiring on the PCB and / or a connecting member (e.g., a C-clip, a conductive member, or a conductive pattern) in contact with the PCB. The electronic device (101) can have various states depending on the arrangement of the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930). In the electronic device (101), when the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) are all folded (e.g., the third state (200c), the second state (400b), the third state (500c), or the state (702)) (hereinafter, a multi-folding state), the electronic device (101) can transmit or receive signals through the conductive portion (911).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the conductive portion (911) may include a first portion (911a) and a second portion (911b). For example, the first portion (911a) may correspond to a lower portion (e.g., a portion having a surface facing the (-) y-axis direction) of the first housing part (910) among the conductive portions (911). The second portion (911b) may correspond to a side portion (e.g., a portion having a surface facing the (+) x-axis direction) of the first housing part (910) among the conductive portions (911). The conductive portion (911) may have an 'L' shape. In the multi-folding state, when the electronic device (101) is viewed in one direction (e.g., the (-) z-axis direction), the second portion (911b) may overlap with the hinge structure (960). As the hinge structure (960) is positioned in the radiating direction of the conductive portion (911), the antenna performance (e.g., radiation efficiency, or overall efficiency) of the conductive portion (911) may decrease.

[0164] In order to reduce the influence caused by the hinge structure (960) and secure antenna performance, the electronic device (101) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may use a conductive portion of a first housing part (910) in which a conductive portion (911) is arranged and another housing part (e.g., a second housing part (920) or a third housing part (930)) as an object (e.g., a radiator) for forming resonance. In the multi-folding state, the third housing part (930) may be arranged between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may use a conductive portion (e.g., a conductive portion (931) or a conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930) as a radiator. For example, the electronic device (101), in the multi-folding state, can use a conductive portion (e.g., a conductive portion (931)) that at least partially faces a conductive portion (911) used as a radiator of the antenna to form a resonance. For example, the electronic device (101), in the multi-folding state, can use a conductive portion (e.g., a conductive portion (932)) adjacent to a non-conductive portion (991) that is aligned with a non-conductive portion (971) adjacent to the conductive portion (911) used as a radiator of the antenna to form a resonance. For example, the electronic device (101), in the multi-folding state, can use at least two or more of the conductive portions of the third housing part (930) that face a portion (e.g., the first portion (911a)) of the conductive portion (911) to form a resonance. In one embodiment, utilizing a conductive portion to form a resonance may include controlling a switching circuit connected to the conductive portion to form a resonance for a specific frequency. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (941) connected to the conductive portion (931). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (942) connected to the conductive portion (932).The switching circuit (941) or the switching circuit (942) is a circuit for connecting conductive parts (931, 932) to the ground, and may include a plurality of elements connected to the ground and a switch for connecting each element to the conductive part. The switching circuit (941) or the switching circuit (942) is described in detail with reference to FIG. 10.

[0165] An electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) according to embodiments of the present disclosure can control a switching circuit (switching circuit (941) or switching circuit (942)) connected to a conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (931) or conductive portion (932)) of a third housing part (930). The descriptions of the conductive portion (932) and the switching circuit (942) can be substantially equally applied to the conductive portion (931) and the switching circuit (941), respectively. As the conductive portion (911) is used as a radiator, a current can be induced in the conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930) adjacent to the first housing part (910). Due to the induced current, an additional resonance can be formed separately from the resonance of the conductive portion (911). The switching circuit (942) can be used to control the frequency of this additional resonance. According to the control of the frequency of this additional resonance, the conductive portion (932) can be used as a radiator. Since the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930), which is different from the first housing part (910), is used as a radiator, the radiation characteristics can be improved and interference with antennas of other frequency bands can be relatively reduced. In addition, since the radiator is located at the bottom of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the area corresponding to the (-) y-axis direction), the influence of the radiated signals on the human body can be reduced.

[0166] Although FIG. 9 illustrates an example in which two switching circuits (e.g., switching circuit 941 or switching circuit 942) are arranged in the third housing part (930) of the electronic device (101), embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include only a switching circuit (942) connected to the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930), and may not include a switching circuit connected to another conductive portion. According to another embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include only a switching circuit (941) connected to the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930), and may not include a switching circuit connected to another conductive portion.

[0167] Fig. 10 illustrates an example of a switching circuit for resonance (e.g., a switching circuit (941) or a switching circuit (942)). The switching circuit may be configured to connect or not connect at least one element among a plurality of elements to a conductive portion (e.g., a conductive portion (931) or a conductive portion (932)). In one embodiment, the first port (1071) may be connected to a conductive portion (e.g., a conductive portion (931) or a conductive portion (932)) of a housing part (e.g., a third housing part (930)). In one embodiment, the second port (1072) (e.g., a second-first port (1072-1), a second-second port (1072-2), a second-third port (1072-3), and a second-fourth port (1072-4)) may be connected to a ground (e.g., a ground layer of a PCB, a support portion within a housing part, or a front metal). The circuit structure of FIG. 10 is merely an example of the switching circuit, and the circuit structure of FIG. 10 is not to be construed as limiting other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 10, the switching circuit according to one embodiment may include a plurality of elements (e.g., a resistor (1091), an inductor (1092), or a capacitor (1093)) and a plurality of switches (e.g., transistors). For example, the plurality of switches may include a first switch (1081), a second switch (1082), a third switch (1083), and / or a fourth switch (1084). The first switch (1081) may be configured to connect or not connect the first port (1071) and the second-1 port (1072-1) via the resistor (1091). The second switch (1082) may be configured to connect or not connect the first port (1071) and the second-2 port (1072-2) via the inductor (1092). The third switch (1083) can be configured to connect or not connect the first port (1071) and the second-third port (1072-3) via a capacitor (1093). The fourth switch (1084) can be configured to connect or not connect the first port (1071) and the second-fourth port (1072-4) via a transmission line (1094). Connecting the two ports via the transmission line (1094) may indicate short-circuiting the two ports. Since the two ports are directly connected without external components, current can flow between the first port (1071) and the second-fourth port (1072-4).

[0169] Although a single pole four throw (SP4T) type switch including a resistor, a capacitor, an inductor, and a line is described as an example in FIG. 10, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. As a non-limiting example, the switching circuit may include only at least one capacitor and at least one inductor as elements for connecting to the conductive portion.

[0170] Although FIG. 10 illustrates a circuit structure in which each switch is connected to a single element, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. Depending on the required impedance or electrical length between the two ports, a combination of two or more elements may be connected to an individual switch.

[0171] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) having a switching circuit for resonance (e.g., switching circuit (941)). In FIG. 9, an example is described in which non-conductive portions (e.g., non-conductive portion (971), non-conductive portion (981), or non-conductive portion (991)) are aligned when the electronic device (101) is in a multi-folding state (a state in which the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) are all folded) (e.g., a third state (200c), a second state (400b), a third state (500c), or a state (702)). The operations of the switching circuit described through FIG. 9 (e.g., switching circuit (941) or switching circuit (942)) can be applied even when the non-conductive portions are misaligned. The same reference numbers may be used for the same or similar descriptions.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 11, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (910), a second housing part (920), and a third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (960) configured to rotatably couple the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). For the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), the third housing part (930), and the hinge structure (960), the descriptions of FIGS. 9 and 10 may be referred to.

[0173] In one embodiment, the first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (911) and a conductive portion (912). For example, the first housing part (910) may include a non-conductive portion (971) between one end of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (912) and a non-conductive portion (972) adjacent to the other end of the conductive portion (911). The second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921) and a conductive portion (922). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive portion (981) between the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (922). The third housing part (930) may include a conductive portion (931) and a conductive portion (932). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive portion (991) between the conductive portion (931) and the conductive portion (932).

[0174] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive signals. For example, a conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna. The non-conductive portions (e.g., non-conductive portion (971), non-conductive portion (981), or non-conductive portion (991)) may not be aligned.

[0175] According to one embodiment, a switching circuit (e.g., a switching circuit (941)) of a conductive portion (e.g., a conductive portion (931)) of a third housing part (930) may be utilized. The switching circuit (941) may be utilized to reduce the influence between the conductive portion (911) and the hinge structure (960) and to improve antenna performance. The electronic device (101), in the multi-folded state, may utilize a conductive portion (e.g., a conductive portion (931)) that at least partially faces the conductive portion (911) used as a radiator of the antenna as a radiator for forming a resonance. The conductive portion (931) may be utilized to form a resonance separate from the resonance of the frequency band of the signal of the conductive portion (911). The electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may control the switching circuit (941) to form an additional resonance frequency. By controlling the frequency of the above-described additional resonance, the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) can be used as a radiator. Since it forms a resonance separate from the resonance of the frequency band of the signal of the conductive portion (911), even if the non-conductive portions are not in an aligned structure, antenna performance (e.g., reflection coefficient, radiation efficiency, or overall efficiency in a low-frequency band below about 1 GHz) for the conductive portion (911) can be secured.

[0176] Figures 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, and 12e illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices (e.g., electronic device (101) or electronic device (400)) having a switching circuit for resonance. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar descriptions.

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (910), a second housing part (920), and a third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (950) configured to rotatably couple the first housing part (910) and the third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (960) configured to rotatably couple the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (400) of FIGS. 4A and 4B. The first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) may correspond to the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430), respectively. The hinge structure (950) may correspond to the first hinge structure (450). The hinge structure (960) may correspond to the second hinge structure (460).

[0178] Referring to FIG. 12A, the first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (911) and a conductive portion (912). For example, the first housing part (910) may include a non-conductive portion (971) between one end of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (912), and may include a non-conductive portion (972) adjacent to the other end of the conductive portion (911). The second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921) and a conductive portion (922). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive portion (981) between the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (922). The third housing part (930) may include a conductive portion (931) and a conductive portion (932). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive portion (991) between the conductive portion (931) and the conductive portion (932).

[0179] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive signals. For example, a conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna. The non-conductive portions (e.g., non-conductive portion (971), non-conductive portion (981), or non-conductive portion (991)) may not be aligned.

[0180] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one switching circuit (e.g., the switching circuit (941) or the switching circuit (942)) to form a resonance of a specified frequency through at least one conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (931) or the conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930). The switching circuit (941) may be connected to the conductive portion (931). The switching circuit (942) may be connected to the conductive portion (932). For example, the electronic device (101), in the multi-folded state, may use a conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (931)) that at least partially faces the conductive portion (911) used as a radiator of an antenna as a radiator to form an additional resonance through coupling. The switching circuit (941) may be controlled to form a resonance separate from the resonance of the frequency band of the signal of the conductive portion (911). Under the control of the switching circuit (941), the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) can be used as a radiator. When the switching circuit (941) is used, the antenna performance (e.g., reflection coefficient, radiation efficiency, or overall efficiency) using the conductive portion (911) can be improved based on the conductive portion (931). As a non-limiting example, the switching circuit (942) can be used instead of the switching circuit (941) or together with the switching circuit (942). Under the control of the switching circuit (942), the conductive portion (932) can form additional resonance. For example, when the switching circuit (941) and the switching circuit (942) are used together, the frequency of the additional resonance formed according to the electrical length of the conductive portion (932) can be the same as the resonance formed using the conductive portion (931).

[0181] Referring to FIG. 12B, the first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (911) and a conductive portion (912). For example, the first housing part (910) may include a non-conductive portion (971) between one end of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (912), and a non-conductive portion (972) adjacent to the other end of the conductive portion (911). The second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921) and a conductive portion (922). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive portion (981) between the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (922). The third housing part (930) may include a conductive portion (931) and a conductive portion (932). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive portion (991) between the conductive portion (931) and the conductive portion (932).

[0182] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive signals. For example, a conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna. The non-conductive portions (e.g., non-conductive portion (971), non-conductive portion (981), or non-conductive portion (991)) may be aligned.

[0183] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one switching circuit (e.g., the switching circuit (941) or the switching circuit (942)) to form a resonance of a specified frequency through at least one conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (931) or the conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930). The switching circuit (941) may be connected to the conductive portion (931). The switching circuit (942) may be connected to the conductive portion (932). For example, the electronic device (101), in the multi-folded state, may use a conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (931)) that at least partially faces the conductive portion (911) used as a radiator of an antenna as an object (e.g., a radiator) to form a resonance through coupling. The switching circuit (941) can be controlled to form a resonance separate from the resonance of the frequency band of the signal of the conductive portion (911). Depending on the control of the switching circuit (941), the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) can be used as a radiator. When the switching circuit (941) is used, the antenna performance (e.g., reflection coefficient, radiation efficiency, or overall efficiency) using the conductive portion (911) can be improved based on the conductive portion (931). As a non-limiting example, the switching circuit (942) can be used instead of the switching circuit (941) or together with the switching circuit (942). Depending on the control of the switching circuit (942), the conductive portion (932) can form an additional resonance. For example, when the switching circuit (941) and the switching circuit (942) are used together, the frequency of the additional resonance formed according to the electrical length of the conductive portion (932) may be the same as the resonance formed using the conductive portion (931).

[0184] Referring to FIG. 12C, in one embodiment, the first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (911), a conductive portion (912), and a conductive portion (913). For example, the first housing part (910) may include a non-conductive portion (971) between one end of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (912), and a non-conductive portion (972) adjacent to the other end of the conductive portion (911). The first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (973) between the conductive portion (912) and the conductive portion (913). The second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921), a conductive portion (922), and a conductive portion (923). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive part (981) between the conductive part (921) and the conductive part (922). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive part (982) between the conductive part (922) and the conductive part (923). The third housing part (930) may include a conductive part (931) and a conductive part (932). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive part (991) between the conductive part (931) and the conductive part (932).

[0185] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive signals. For example, a conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna. The non-conductive portions (e.g., non-conductive portion (971), non-conductive portion (981), or non-conductive portion (991)) may not be aligned.

[0186] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one switching circuit (e.g., the switching circuit (941) or the switching circuit (942)) to form a resonance of a specified frequency through at least one conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (931) or the conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930). The switching circuit (941) may be connected to the conductive portion (931). The switching circuit (942) may be connected to the conductive portion (932). For example, the electronic device (101), in the multi-folded state, may use a conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (931)) that at least partially faces the conductive portion (911) used as a radiator of the antenna as an object (e.g., the radiator) to form a resonance through coupling. The switching circuit (941) can be controlled to form a resonance separate from the resonance of the frequency band of the signal of the conductive portion (911). Depending on the control of the switching circuit (941), the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) can be used as a radiator. When the switching circuit (941) is used, the antenna performance (e.g., reflection coefficient, radiation efficiency, or overall efficiency) using the conductive portion (911) can be improved based on the conductive portion (931). As a non-limiting example, the switching circuit (942) can be used instead of the switching circuit (941) or together with the switching circuit (942). Depending on the control of the switching circuit (942), the conductive portion (932) can form an additional resonance. For example, when the switching circuit (941) and the switching circuit (942) are used together, the frequency of the additional resonance formed according to the electrical length of the conductive portion (932) may be the same as the resonance formed using the conductive portion (931).

[0187] Referring to FIGS. 12D and 12E , a first housing part (910) according to one embodiment may include a conductive portion (911) and a conductive portion (912). For example, the first housing part (910) may include a non-conductive portion (971) between one end of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (912), and a non-conductive portion (972) adjacent to the other end of the conductive portion (911). A second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921) and a conductive portion (922). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive portion (981) between the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (922). A third housing part (930) may include a conductive portion (931), a conductive portion (932), and a conductive portion (933). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive part (991) between the conductive part (931) and the conductive part (932). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive part (992) between the conductive part (932) and the conductive part (933).

[0188] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive a signal. For example, the conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna. The non-conductive portions (e.g., the non-conductive portion (971), the non-conductive portion (981), or the non-conductive portion (991)) may not be aligned. In FIG. 12d, the non-conductive portion (971) and the non-conductive portion (981) are aligned when viewed in one direction (e.g., the (-) y-axis direction), whereas in FIG. 12e, the non-conductive portion (971) and the non-conductive portion (981) may not be aligned when viewed in one direction (e.g., the (-) y-axis direction).

[0189] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include at least one switching circuit (e.g., switching circuit (941), switching circuit (942), or switching circuit (943)) to form a resonance of a specified frequency through at least one conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (931), conductive portion (932), or conductive portion (933)) of the third housing part (930). The switching circuit (941) may be connected to the conductive portion (931). The switching circuit (942) may be connected to the conductive portion (932). The switching circuit (943) may be connected to the conductive portion (933). For example, the electronic device (101), in the multi-folded state, may use a conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (931)) that at least partially faces the conductive portion (911) used as a radiator of the antenna as an object (e.g., radiator) to form an additional resonance. The switching circuit (941) can be controlled to form a resonance separate from the resonance of the frequency band of the signal of the conductive portion (911). Depending on the control of the switching circuit (941), the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) can be used as a radiator. When the switching circuit (941) is used, the antenna performance (e.g., reflection coefficient, radiation efficiency, or overall efficiency) using the conductive portion (911) can be improved based on the conductive portion (931). As a non-limiting example, the switching circuit (942) can be used instead of the switching circuit (941) or together with the switching circuit (942). Depending on the control of the switching circuit (942), the conductive portion (932) can form an additional resonance. As a non-limiting example, a switching circuit (943) may be used instead of the switching circuit (941), or a switching circuit (943) may be used together with the switching circuit (941). Under the control of the switching circuit (943), the conductive portion (933) may form additional resonance.As a non-limiting example, a switching circuit (942) and a switching circuit (943) may be used together with a switching circuit (941). Under the control of the switching circuit (942), the conductive portion (932) may form an additional resonance. Under the control of the switching circuit (943), the conductive portion (933) may form an additional resonance. For example, the resonance formed by the conductive portion (933) may correspond to the same frequency as the resonance formed by the conductive portion (932), depending on the electrical length of the conductive portion (933). As another example, the resonance formed by the conductive portion (933) may correspond to a different frequency as an additional resonance from the resonance frequency formed by the conductive portion (932).

[0190] Although FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E illustrate a structure in which a plurality of switching circuits (e.g., a switching circuit (941), a switching circuit (942), or a switching circuit (943)) are arranged in the third housing part (930) of the electronic device (101), the drawings are not to be construed as limiting embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the electronic device (101) may include only a switching circuit (941) connected to the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930), and may not include a switching circuit connected to another conductive portion. As another example, the electronic device (101) may include only a switching circuit (942) connected to the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930), and may not include a switching circuit connected to another conductive portion. For another example, the electronic device (101) may include only a switching circuit (941) connected to the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) and a switching circuit (942) connected to the conductive portion (932), but may not include a switching circuit (943). For another example, the electronic device (101) may include only a switching circuit (942) connected to the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930) and a switching circuit (943) connected to the conductive portion (933), but may not include a switching circuit (941).

[0191] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) having a switching circuit for resonance (e.g., switching circuit (941)) and an additional switching circuit. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar descriptions.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 13, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (910), a second housing part (920), and a third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (960) configured to rotatably couple the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). For the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), the third housing part (930), and the hinge structure (960), the descriptions of FIGS. 9 and 10 may be referred to.

[0193] In one embodiment, the first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (911) and a conductive portion (912). The first housing part (910) may include a non-conductive portion (971) between one end of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (912), and may include a non-conductive portion (972) adjacent to the other end of the conductive portion (911). The second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921) and a conductive portion (922). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive portion (981) between the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (922). The third housing part (930) may include a conductive portion (931) and a conductive portion (932). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive portion (991) between the conductive portion (931) and the conductive portion (932). The electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive signals. For example, the conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna.

[0194] In order to reduce the influence caused by the hinge structure (960) and secure antenna performance, the electronic device (101) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may use a conductive portion in a first housing part (910) in which a conductive portion (911) is arranged and another housing part (e.g., a second housing part (920) or a third housing part (930)) to form resonance through coupling. In the multi-folding state, the third housing part (930) may be arranged between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may use the conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (931) or the conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930) as an object (e.g., a radiator) to form resonance through coupling. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can use the conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (921) or conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920) as well as the third housing part (930) facing the first housing part (910) as an object (e.g., a radiator) to form resonance through coupling. The electronic device (101) can include a switching circuit (943) for resonance through the conductive portion (921). The switching circuit (943) can be used for control (e.g., frequency adjustment) of the resonance formed through the conductive portion (921). The electronic device (101) can include a switching circuit (944) for resonance through the conductive portion (922). The switching circuit (944) can be used for control (e.g., frequency adjustment) of the resonance formed through the conductive portion (922). For the switching circuit (943) or the switching circuit (944), the descriptions of FIG. 10 may be referred to.

[0195] An electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) according to embodiments of the present disclosure can control a switching circuit (switching circuit (943) or switching circuit (944)) connected to a conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (921) or conductive portion (922)) of a third housing part (930). Hereinafter, the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) and the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920) are described as examples, but the descriptions of the conductive portion (931) and the conductive portion (921) can be substantially equally applied to the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930) and the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920). As the conductive portion (911) is used as a radiator, a current may be induced in the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) adjacent to the first housing part (910). Due to the induced current, an additional resonance may be formed separately from the resonance of the conductive portion (911). Substantially in the same principle, a current may be induced in the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920) adjacent to the third housing part (930). Due to the current, a resonance may be formed. The resonance may be used to improve the performance of the resonance in the conductive portion (931) (e.g., the same frequency) or may correspond to an additional resonance having a separate frequency. Under the control of the switching circuit (943), the conductive portion (921) may be used as a radiator. While signals are transmitted (or received) through the conductive portion (911), both the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (931) can be used as radiators, so that the overall radiation characteristics (e.g., radiation efficiency, or overall efficiency) can be improved.

[0196] Fig. 14 illustrates examples of electric fields of foldable-type electronic devices (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), and electronic device (500)). To explain the electric fields according to each state in Fig. 14, the electronic device (101) of Fig. 13 is described as an example. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar descriptions.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 14, an example (1401) represents an electric field of an electronic device (101) while signals are transmitted through a conductive portion (911) without separate control for additional resonance, in a state where a third housing part (930) of the electronic device (101) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920) (i.e., a multi-folding state). In the example (1401), while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911), the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) may not form a separate resonance through the switching circuit (941). While signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911), the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920) may not form a separate resonance through the switching circuit (943).

[0198] Example (1402) illustrates an electric field of an electronic device (101) while signals are transmitted through at least some of the conductive portions of the third housing part (930) and the conductive portion (911) when the third housing part (930) of the electronic device (101) is positioned between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920) (i.e., in a multi-folding state). In example (1402), while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911), a separate resonance can be formed through a switching circuit (941) connected to the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) and a switching circuit (942) connected to the conductive portion (932). While signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911), the switching circuits (e.g., switching circuits (943) and (944)) connected to the conductive portions (e.g., conductive portions (921) and (922)) of the second housing part (920) may not be separately controlled to form resonance.

[0199] Example (1403) illustrates an electric field of the electronic device (101) while signals are transmitted through the conductive portions (911) of the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930) in a state where the third housing part (930) of the electronic device (101) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920) (i.e., a multi-folding state). In example (1403), while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911), the switching circuit (941) connected to the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) and / or the switching circuit (942) connected to the conductive portion (932) can be controlled to form resonance. While signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911), the switching circuit (943) connected to the conductive portion (921) and / or the switching circuit (944) connected to the conductive portion (922) can be controlled to form resonance.

[0200] Referring to examples (1401) and (1402), it can be confirmed that a larger electric field is formed by additionally using the conductive portion (931) and the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930) as radiators in addition to the conductive portion (911) which is the main radiator. Referring to examples (1402) and (1403), it can be confirmed that a larger electric field is formed by additionally using the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (9320) as radiators in addition to the conductive portion (911), the conductive portion (931), and the conductive portion (932) which are the main radiators.

[0201] FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate examples of antenna performance of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) having a switching circuit for resonance (e.g., switching circuit (941), or switching circuit (942)) and an additional switching circuit (e.g., switching circuit (943), or switching circuit (944)).

[0202] Referring to Figure 15a, the graph (1500a) shows the reflection coefficient (S-parameter: S) for an antenna (e.g., an antenna using a conductive portion (911) as a main radiator). 11) is shown. The horizontal axis of the graph (1500a) represents frequency (unit: GHz), and the vertical axis of the graph (1500a) represents reflection coefficient (unit: dB). The first line (1501) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the example (1401), the second line (1502) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the example (1402), and the third line (1503) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the example (1403). Comparing the first line (1501) and the second line (1502) with the third line (1503), it can be confirmed that the magnitude of the reflection coefficient changes according to additional resonance (e.g., resonance using the conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) while maintaining the resonance according to the conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) and the conductive portion (931) and the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930) located at the bottom and the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920). Due to the low reflection coefficient, the radiation performance can be improved.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 15b, a graph (1500b) represents radiation efficiency for an antenna (e.g., an antenna using a conductive portion (911) as a main radiator). The horizontal axis of the graph (1500b) represents frequency (unit: GHz), and the vertical axis of the graph (1500b) represents radiation efficiency. A first line (1551) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in example (1401), a second line (1552) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in example (1402), and a third line (1553) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in example (1403).

[0204] Comparing the first line (1551) and the second line (1552), it can be confirmed that the efficiency is improved by about 2.3 dB due to additional resonance (e.g., resonance using the conductive part (931) and / or the conductive part (932) of the third housing part (930) located at the bottom) while maintaining the resonance according to the conductive part (911) of the first housing part (910). Comparing the first line (1551) and the third line (1553), it can be confirmed that the efficiency is improved by about 3.5 dB due to additional resonance (e.g., resonance using the conductive part (911) of the first housing part (910) and the conductive part (931) and the conductive part (932) of the third housing part (930) located at the bottom and the conductive part (921) and the conductive part (922) of the second housing part (920)) while maintaining the resonance according to the conductive part (911) of the first housing part (910).

[0205] When all housing parts of a multi-foldable type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) are unfolded, the conductive portion (911) can be used as a main radiator. However, when all housing parts are folded, i.e., in a multi-folding state, the conductive portion (911) overlaps with the hinge structure (960) or overlaps with the flexible display, and thus the radiation performance may be reduced. The electronic device according to embodiments of the present disclosure can form additional resonance by using the conductive portion of a housing part (e.g., a second housing part (920), and / or a third housing part (930)) other than the first housing part (910) having the conductive portion (911) used as a main radiator. In one embodiment, using the conductive portion (911) as a source, at least one conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (931), conductive portion (932), and / or conductive portion (933)) of the third housing part (930) can be used as an additional radiator. In one embodiment, using the conductive portion (911) as a source, at least one conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (921), conductive portion (922), and / or conductive portion (923)) of the second housing part (920) can be used as an additional radiator.

[0206] In one embodiment, a switching circuit may be arranged to connect each conductive portion to control the electrical characteristics of the radiator. As additional resonance is formed through the switching circuit, the conductive portion may be utilized as a radiator. For example, while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911) in a state where the third housing part (930) is arranged between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920) (i.e., a multi-folding state), the switching circuit (941) may be controlled to form additional resonance through the conductive portion (931). For example, while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911) in a state where the third housing part (930) is arranged between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920) (i.e., a multi-folding state), the switching circuit (942) may be controlled to form additional resonance through the conductive portion (932). For example, while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911) in a state where the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920) (i.e., a multi-folding state), the switching circuit (943) can be controlled to form additional resonance through the conductive portion (921). For example, while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911) in a state where the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920) (i.e., a multi-folding state), the switching circuit (944) can be controlled to form additional resonance through the conductive portion (922).

[0207] FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a semi-folded state (e.g., the third state (703) of FIG. 7) of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101), the electronic device (200), the electronic device (400), or the electronic device (500)). Referring to the states illustrated in FIG. 7, the radiation performance of the antenna using the conductive portion (711), which is the main radiator, may be reduced not only in the second state (702) but also in the third state (703). This is because the flexible display (240) overlaps with the conductive portion (711). The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar descriptions.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 16, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (910), a second housing part (920), and a third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (950) configured to rotatably couple the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (960) configured to rotatably couple the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C. The first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) may correspond to the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (230), respectively. The hinge structure (960) may correspond to the second hinge structure (260). For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (400) of FIGS. 4A and 4B. The first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) may correspond to the first housing part (410), the second housing part (420), and the third housing part (430), respectively. The hinge structure (960) may correspond to the second hinge structure (460). For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (500) of FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C. The first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) may correspond to the first housing part (510), the second housing part (520), and the third housing part (530), respectively. The hinge structure (960) may correspond to the second hinge structure (560).

[0209] The first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (911) and a conductive portion (912). The first housing part (910) may include a non-conductive portion (971) between one end of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (912) and a non-conductive portion (972) adjacent to the other end of the conductive portion (911). The second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921) and a conductive portion (922). The second housing part (920) may include a non-conductive portion (981) between the conductive portion (921) and the conductive portion (922). The third housing part (930) may include a conductive portion (931) and a conductive portion (932). The third housing part (930) may include a non-conductive part (991) between the conductive part (931) and the conductive part (932). The electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive signals. For example, the conductive part (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna. A wireless communication circuit (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1) of the electronic device (101) may provide signals to the conductive part (911) via the power supply unit (940).

[0210] According to one embodiment, the conductive portion (911) may include a first portion (911a) and a second portion (911b). The first portion (911a) may correspond to a lower portion (e.g., a portion having a surface facing the (-) y-axis direction) of the first housing part (910) among the conductive portions (911). The second portion (911b) may correspond to a side portion (e.g., a portion having a surface facing the (+) x-axis direction) of the first housing part (910) among the conductive portions (911). The conductive portion (911) may have an 'L' shape. In the semi-folded state, when the electronic device (101) is viewed in one direction (e.g., the (-) z-axis direction), the second portion (911b) may overlap with a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (240) or a flexible display (540)). As the flexible display is positioned adjacent to the conductive portion (911), the antenna performance (e.g., radiation efficiency, overall efficiency) of the conductive portion (911) may decrease.

[0211] FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate examples of antenna performance of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) in a semi-folded state (e.g., the third state (703) of FIG. 7).

[0212] Referring to FIG. 17a, the graph (1700a) shows the reflection coefficient (S-parameter: S) for an antenna (e.g., an antenna using a conductive portion (711) as a radiator). 11) is shown. The horizontal axis of the graph (1700a) represents frequency (unit: GHz) and the vertical axis of the graph (1700a) represents reflection coefficient (unit: dB). The first line (1701) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the third state (703), and the second line (1702) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the first state (701). Comparing the first line (1701) and the second line (1702), it can be confirmed that when the electronic device (101) is in a semi-folded state, the peak of the reflection coefficient changes from about -22 dB to about -10 dB.

[0213] Referring to FIG. 17b, a graph (1700b) represents radiation efficiency for an antenna (e.g., an antenna using a conductive portion (711) as a radiator). The horizontal axis of the graph (1700b) represents frequency (unit: GHz), and the vertical axis of the graph (1700b) represents radiation efficiency. A first line (1751) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in a first state (701), and a second line (1752) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in a third state (703). Comparing the first line (1751) and the second line (1752), it can be confirmed that the radiation efficiency decreases by about 23% when the electronic device (101) is in a semi-folded state.

[0214] In order to reduce the influence due to the hinge structure (960) and secure antenna performance, the electronic device (101) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may use a conductive portion in a first housing part (910) in which the conductive portion (911) is arranged and another housing part (e.g., the second housing part (920)) as a coupling radiator to form resonance. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may use the conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (921) or the conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101), in the semi-folded state, may use at least one of the conductive portions of the second housing part (920) facing a portion (e.g., the first portion (911a)) of the conductive portion (911) to form resonance. As the conductive portion (911) is used as a radiator, a current may be induced in the conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (921) or conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920) adjacent to the first housing part (910). The electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) may control a switching circuit (943) connected to the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920) to control the frequency of the additional resonance. The electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) may control a switching circuit (944) connected to the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920) to control the frequency of the additional resonance. As a non-limiting example, in addition to the conductive portion of the second housing part (920), a conductive portion of the third housing part (930) (e.g., conductive portion (931) and / or conductive portion (932)) and a switching circuit (e.g., switching circuit (941) and / or switching circuit (942)) used with the conductive portion may be used to form resonance.

[0215] Hereinafter, various control states may be defined to distinguish the state according to the operation of the switching circuit of each housing part in the semi-folded state (e.g., the third state (703)). For example, the electronic device (101) may operate in the first control state. In the first control state, while signals are transmitted through the conductive part (911), neither at least one conductive part (e.g., the conductive part (921) or the conductive part (922)) of the second housing part (920) nor at least one conductive part (e.g., the conductive part (931) or the conductive part (932)) of the third housing part (930) may be utilized to form additional resonance. For example, the electronic device (101) may operate in the second control state. In the second control state, while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911), at least one conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (921) or conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920) may be used to form an additional resonance, and at least one conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (931) or conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930) may not be used to form an additional resonance. In the second control state, at least one switching circuit (e.g., switching circuit (943) or switching circuit (944)) of the second housing part (920) may be controlled by the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)). For example, the electronic device (101) may operate in the third control state. In the third control state, while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911), at least one conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (921) or conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920) is used to form an additional resonance, and at least one conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (931) or conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930) can also be used to form an additional resonance.In the third control state, at least one switching circuit (e.g., switching circuit (943) or switching circuit (944)) of the second housing part (920) can be controlled by the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) and at least one switching circuit (e.g., switching circuit (941) or switching circuit (942)) of the third housing part (930) can be controlled by the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)). Hereinafter, examples of antenna performance according to each control state are described in FIGS. 18A, 18B, 19A, and 19B.

[0216] FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate examples of antenna performance of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) in a semi-folded state (e.g., the third state (703) of FIG. 7).

[0217] Referring to Figure 18a, the graph (1800a) shows the reflection coefficient (S-parameter: S) for an antenna (e.g., an antenna using a conductive portion (911) as a main radiator). 11) are shown. The horizontal axis of the graph (1800a) represents the frequency (unit: GHz) and the vertical axis of the graph (1800a) represents the reflection coefficient (unit: dB). The first line (1801) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the unfolded state of the electronic device (101) (i.e., the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930) are all unfolded). The second line (1802) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the first control state (i.e., no additional resonance control using a housing part other than the housing part of the main radiator). The third line (1803) represents the reflection coefficient by frequency in the second control state (i.e., additional resonance control using a housing part facing the housing part of the main radiator). The fourth line (1804) represents the frequency-dependent reflection coefficient in the third control state (i.e., additional resonance control using housing parts other than the housing part of the main radiator).

[0218] Referring to region (1811) and region (1812), it can be confirmed that the resonance formed at the side of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the second portion (911b) of the conductive portion (911)) is maintained, while the resonance is formed at the bottom (e.g., the first portion (911a) of the conductive portion (911) and the conductive portion (921), the conductive portion (922), the conductive portion (931), and / or the conductive portion (932)).

[0219] Referring to FIG. 18b, a graph (1800b) represents radiation efficiency for an antenna (e.g., an antenna using a conductive portion (911) as a main radiator). The horizontal axis of the graph (1800b) represents frequency (unit: GHz), and the vertical axis of the graph (1800b) represents radiation efficiency. A first line (1851) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in the unfolded state, and a second line (1852) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in the first control state. A third line (1853) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in the second control state. A fourth line (1854) represents radiation efficiency by frequency in the third control state.

[0220] Comparing the first line (1851) and the second line (1852), it can be confirmed that the radiation efficiency is reduced by about 3.8 dB when the electronic device (101) is in a semi-folded state. Comparing the second line (1852) and the third line (1853), it can be confirmed that the radiation efficiency is improved by about 1.7 dB by controlling the formation of additional resonance by using the conductive parts of the housing part (e.g., the first housing part (910)) facing the housing part (e.g., the second housing part (920)) of the main radiator (e.g., the conductive part (911)). Comparing the third line (1853) and the fourth line (1854), it can be confirmed that the radiation efficiency is further improved by about 0.5 dB by controlling the formation of additional resonances using not only the housing part (e.g., the first housing part (910)) of the main radiator (e.g., the conductive part (911)) facing the housing part (e.g., the second housing part (920)) but also the conductive parts of other housing parts (e.g., the third housing part (930)).

[0221] FIG. 19A illustrates an example of a current distribution in a semi-folded state of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)). To explain the current distribution according to each control state in FIG. 19A, the electronic device (101) of FIG. 16 is described as an example. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar description.

[0222] Referring to FIG. 19A, examples (1901) and (1911) each represent a current distribution of the electronic device (101) in a first control state. Examples (1902) and (1912) each represent a current distribution of the electronic device (101) in a second control state. Examples (1903) and (1913) each represent a current distribution of the electronic device (101) in a third control state. Referring to examples (1901), (1902), and (1903), by using conductive portions of a housing part (e.g., the first housing part (910)) of a main radiator (e.g., the conductive portion (911)) and other housing parts (e.g., the second housing part (920) and / or the third housing part (930)) as additional radiators, the current concentrated on the display can be reduced. Referring to examples (1911), (1912), and (1913), by using the conductive portions of the housing part (e.g., the first housing part (910)) of the main radiator (e.g., the conductive portion (911)) and other housing parts (e.g., the second housing part (920) and / or the third housing part (930)) as additional radiators, it can be confirmed that the current concentrated on the display moves to the bottom of the electronic device (101). By forming additional resonance not only in the housing part facing the conductive portion (911) (e.g., the second housing part (920)) but also in the other housing parts (e.g., the third housing part (930)), it can be confirmed that more current moves from the display to the bottom of the electronic device (101).

[0223] FIG. 19b illustrates an example of an electric field in a semi-folded state of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), electronic device (500)). To explain the electric field according to each control state in FIG. 19b, the electronic device (101) of FIG. 16 is described as an example. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar description.

[0224] Referring to FIG. 19b, example (1951) represents the electric field of the electronic device (101) while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911) without separate control for additional resonance when the electronic device (101) is in the third state (703) (i.e., the first housing part (910) is positioned to face the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930) is not positioned between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). In other words, example (1951) represents the electric field of the electronic device (101) in the first control state.

[0225] Example (1952) represents the electric field of the electronic device (101) when additional resonance is formed using the conductive portions of the second housing part (920) while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911) in the third state (703) (i.e., the first housing part (910) is positioned to face the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930) is not positioned between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). In other words, example (1952) represents the electric field of the electronic device (101) in the second control state.

[0226] Example (1953) represents the electric field of the electronic device (101) when additional resonance is formed using the conductive portions of the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930) while signals are transmitted through the conductive portion (911) in the third state (703) (i.e., the first housing part (910) is positioned to face the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930) is not positioned between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). In other words, example (1953) represents the electric field of the electronic device (101) in the third control state.

[0227] Referring to Examples (1951), (1952), and (1953), by using the conductive portions of the housing part (e.g., the first housing part (910)) of the main radiator (e.g., the conductive portion (911)) and other housing parts (e.g., the second housing part (920) and / or the third housing part (930)) as additional radiators, it can be confirmed that the current concentrated on the display moves to the bottom of the electronic device (101). As the electric field is distributed to the conductive portions (e.g., the conductive portion (921), the conductive portion (922), the conductive portion (931), and / or the conductive portion (932)) that are visible to the outside rather than the inside of the electronic device (101), the radiation efficiency of the antenna using the conductive portion (911) can be improved.

[0228] FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) (hereinafter, electronic device (101)) including switching circuits. A multi-foldable type electronic device (101) including three or more housing parts may include a plurality of switching circuits to improve antenna performance in each of various states. A housing part other than the housing part of the main radiator (e.g., conductive part (911)) may include at least one switching circuit to form additional resonance using the conductive part of the housing part. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar descriptions.

[0229] Referring to FIG. 20, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (910), a second housing part (920), and a third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (950) configured to rotatably couple the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (960) configured to rotatably couple the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C. For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (400) of FIGS. 4A and 4B. For example, the electronic device (101) may be the electronic device (500) of FIGS. 5a, 5b, and 5c.

[0230] The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions. A non-conductive portion may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. For example, the first housing part (910) may include a conductive portion (911), a conductive portion (912), and a conductive portion (913). The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions. A non-conductive portion may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the second set of conductive portions. For example, the second housing part (920) may include a conductive portion (921), a conductive portion (922), and a conductive portion (923). The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of externally visible conductive portions. A non-conductive portion may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the third set. For example, the third housing part (930) may include a conductive portion (931), a conductive portion (932), and a conductive portion (933).

[0231] The electronic device (101) may utilize an antenna to transmit or receive signals. For example, the conductive portion (911) of the first housing part (910) may be utilized as a radiator of the antenna. For example, a wireless communication circuit (e.g., a communication module (190) of FIG. 1) within the electronic device (101) may provide signals to the conductive portion (911) via a feeding unit (940). For example, the wireless communication circuit may be disposed on a PCB (e.g., a third printed circuit board (373) or a third printed circuit board (673)) of the first housing part (910). The wireless communication circuit may be electrically connected to the conductive portion (911) as the feeding unit (940) via wiring on the PCB and / or a connecting member (e.g., a C-clip, a conductive member, or a conductive pattern) in contact with the PCB. The electronic device (101) can transmit or receive signals through a conductive portion (911). The conductive portion (911) can include a first portion (911a) and a second portion (911b). When the hinge structure (960) or the display is positioned adjacent to or overlapping the conductive portion (911), the antenna performance (e.g., radiation efficiency or overall efficiency) of the conductive portion (911) can be reduced.

[0232] The electronic device (101) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may control a switching circuit to generate additional resonance to improve the radiation characteristics of the conductive portion (911), which is a main radiator. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2041) and / or a switching circuit (2042) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2043) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2044) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2045) and / or a switching circuit (2046) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930).

[0233] For the switching circuit (2041), the switching circuit (2042), the switching circuit (2043), the switching circuit (2044), the switching circuit (2045), and / or the switching circuit (2046), the descriptions of FIG. 10 may be referred to. Hereinafter, in FIGS. 21A and 21B, a control operation using the switching circuit (2041), the switching circuit (2042), the switching circuit (2043), the switching circuit (2044), the switching circuit (2045), and / or the switching circuit (2046) according to the state of the electronic device (101) is described.

[0234] FIG. 21A illustrates an example (2100a) of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) including switching circuits in a folded state. For FIG. 21A, the structure of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 20 may be used. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar description.

[0235] Referring to FIG. 21A, the electronic device (101) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may use a conductive portion (911) in a first housing part (910) and another housing part (e.g., a second housing part (920) or a third housing part (930)) as a coupling radiator to form resonance in order to reduce the influence caused by the hinge structure (960) and improve antenna performance. In the multi-folding state, the third housing part (930) may be placed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may use the conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (931) or the conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930) as a coupling radiator (or coupling pattern) to form resonance. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may utilize a conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (921) or conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920) as a coupling radiator (or coupling pattern) to form a resonance.

[0236] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the switching circuit (2041) of the second housing part (920) in a multi-folding state (e.g., the second state (702) of FIG. 7). For example, the switching circuit (2041) can be controlled to connect the conductive part (922) to an inductor (e.g., about 80 nano henry) connected to ground to create additional resonance while signals of the conductive part (911) are transmitted. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the switching circuit (2042) of the second housing part (920) in a multi-folding state (e.g., the second state (702) of FIG. 7). For example, the switching circuit (2042) may be controlled to connect the conductive portion (922) to a capacitor (e.g., about 100 pF (pico farad)) connected to ground to form additional resonance while signals of the conductive portion (911) are transmitted. The conductive portion may function as a device having inductance or capacitance. Therefore, even if the same conductive portion is used, the required device characteristics (e.g., capacitance or inductance) may vary depending on the point of the conductive portion to which the switching circuit is connected.

[0237] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the switching circuit (2045) of the third housing part (930) in a multi-folding state (e.g., the second state (702) of FIG. 7). For example, the switching circuit (2045) can be controlled to connect the conductive part (932) to a capacitor (e.g., about 80 pF) connected to ground to form additional resonance while signals of the conductive part (911) are transmitted. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the switching circuit (2046) of the third housing part (930) in a multi-folding state (e.g., the second state (702) of FIG. 7). For example, the switching circuit (2046) may be controlled to connect the conductive portion (932) to a capacitor (e.g., about 5 pF) connected to ground to form additional resonance while signals of the conductive portion (911) are transmitted. The conductive portion may function as a device having inductance or capacitance. Therefore, even if the same conductive portion is used, the required device characteristics (e.g., capacitance or inductance) may vary depending on the point of the conductive portion to which the switching circuit is connected.

[0238] FIG. 21b illustrates an example (2100b) of a foldable-type electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) including switching circuits in a semi-folded state. For FIG. 21b, the structure of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 20 may be used. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar description.

[0239] Referring to FIG. 21B, the electronic device (101) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may use a conductive portion (911) in a first housing part (910) and another housing part (e.g., a second housing part (920) or a third housing part (930)) as a radiator to form resonance through coupling in order to reduce the influence caused by the hinge structure (960) and improve antenna performance. In the multi-folding state, the third housing part (930) may be placed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may use a conductive portion (e.g., a conductive portion (921) or a conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920) as a radiator to form resonance through coupling. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can utilize a conductive portion (e.g., conductive portion (931) or conductive portion (932)) of the third housing part (930) as a radiator to form resonance through coupling.

[0240] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the switching circuit (2042) of the second housing part (920) in a semi-folded state (e.g., the third state (703) of FIG. 7). For example, the switching circuit (2042) can be controlled to connect the conductive part (922) to an inductor (e.g., about 1 nH) connected to ground to form additional resonance while signals of the conductive part (911) are transmitted. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the switching circuit (2043) of the second housing part (920) in a semi-folded state (e.g., the third state (703) of FIG. 7). For example, the switching circuit (2043) can be controlled to connect the conductive portion (921) to a capacitor (e.g., about 20 pF) connected to ground to create additional resonance while signals of the conductive portion (911) are transmitted.

[0241] In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the switching circuit (2044) of the third housing part (930) in a semi-folded state (e.g., the third state (703) of FIG. 7). For example, the switching circuit (2044) can be controlled to connect the conductive part (931) to a capacitor (e.g., about 20 pF) connected to ground to form additional resonance while signals of the conductive part (911) are transmitted. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) can control the switching circuit (2045) of the third housing part (930) in a semi-folded state (e.g., the third state (703) of FIG. 7). For example, the switching circuit (2045) can be controlled to connect the conductive portion (932) to a capacitor (e.g., about 100 pF) connected to ground to create additional resonance while signals of the conductive portion (911) are transmitted.

[0242] FIGS. 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, 22e, 22f, 22g, 22h, and 22i illustrate examples of foldable-type electronic devices (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), and electronic device (500)) including switching circuits. The same reference numerals may be used for the same or similar descriptions. In each drawing, various examples of the arrangement of switching circuits are described according to the segmented structure of the metal frame.

[0243] Referring to FIGS. 22A to 22I, the electronic device (101) may include a first housing part (910), a second housing part (920), and a third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a hinge structure (960) configured to rotatably couple the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). For the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), the third housing part (930), and the hinge structure (960), the descriptions of FIGS. 20 and 21A may be referred to.

[0244] Referring to FIG. 22A, in an example (2200a), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) and non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921), conductive portion (922), and conductive portion (923)). Among the conductive portions of the second set, a non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (981) and a non-conductive portion (982)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions. The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of conductive portions (e.g., a conductive portion (931), a conductive portion (932), and a conductive portion (933)) that are visible to the outside. Among the conductive portions of the third set, a non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (991) and a non-conductive portion (992)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions. When the electronic device (101) is viewed in one direction (e.g., the (+) y-axis direction), the non-conductive portions of different housing parts may be aligned. For example, the non-conductive portion (971), the non-conductive portion (981), and the non-conductive portion (991) can be aligned. For example, the non-conductive portion (972), the non-conductive portion (982), and the non-conductive portion (992) can be aligned.

[0245] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2041) and / or a switching circuit (2042) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2043) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2044) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2045) and / or a switching circuit (2046) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (922) of the third housing part (930).

[0246] Referring to FIG. 22b, in an example (2200b), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) or non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921), conductive portion (922), and conductive portion (923)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (981) or non-conductive portion (982)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the second set. The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (931) and conductive portion (932)) that are visible to the outside. A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (991)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the third set. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2041) and / or a switching circuit (2042) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2043) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2044) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930).According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2045) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930).

[0247] Referring to FIG. 22c, in an example (2200c), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) and non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921), conductive portion (922), and conductive portion (923)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (981) and a non-conductive portion (982)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the second set. The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of conductive portions (e.g., a conductive portion (931) and a conductive portion (932)) that are visible to the outside. A non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (991)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the third set. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2041) and / or a switching circuit (2042) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2043) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2044) and / or a switching circuit (2044c) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930).

[0248] Referring to FIG. 22d, in example (2200d), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) and non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921) and conductive portion (922)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (981)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the second set. The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (931), conductive portion (932), and conductive portion (933)) that are visible to the outside. A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (991) and non-conductive portion (992)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the third set. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2042) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2043) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2044) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930).According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2045) and / or a switching circuit (2046) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930).

[0249] Referring to FIG. 22e, in example (2200e), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) and non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921) and conductive portion (922)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (981)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the second set. The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (931), conductive portion (932), and conductive portion (933)) that are visible to the outside. A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (991) and non-conductive portion (992)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions among the conductive portions of the third set. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2043) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2044) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2045) and / or a switching circuit (2046) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930).

[0250] Referring to FIG. 22f, in an example (2200f), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) and non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921)). The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (931), conductive portion (932), and conductive portion (933)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (991) and non-conductive portion (992)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the third set of conductive portions. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2044) for controlling an electrical characteristic of the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (2045) and / or a switching circuit (2046) for controlling an electrical characteristic of the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930).

[0251] Referring to FIG. 22g, in an example (2200g), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) and non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921), conductive portion (922), and conductive portion (923)). Among the conductive portions of the second set, a non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (981) and a non-conductive portion (982)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions. The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of conductive portions (e.g., a conductive portion (931), a conductive portion (932), and a conductive portion (933)) that are visible to the outside. Among the conductive portions of the third set, a non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (991) and a non-conductive portion (992)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions.

[0252] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (941) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930). The electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (942) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (943) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920). The electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (944) for controlling electrical characteristics of the conductive portion (922) of the second housing part (920).

[0253] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, when the conductive portion (912) adjacent to the conductive portion (911), which is the main radiator, is grounded, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120)) can use the conductive portions adjacent to the hinge structure (960) to form additional resonance. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (120)) can use the conductive portion (931) of the third housing part (930) and / or the conductive portion (921) of the second housing part (920) as radiators for additional resonance when the conductive portion (912) adjacent to the conductive portion (911), which is the main radiator, is grounded. For additional resonance frequency, the switching circuit (941) can be controlled to connect at least one of the elements connected to the conductive portion (931) and the ground. As a non-limiting example, for additional resonant frequencies, the switching circuit (943) can be controlled to connect at least one of the elements connected to the conductive portion (921) and ground.

[0254] Referring to FIG. 22h, in an example (2200h), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) and non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921), conductive portion (922), and conductive portion (923)). Among the conductive portions of the second set, a non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (981) and a non-conductive portion (982)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions. The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of conductive portions (e.g., a conductive portion (931), a conductive portion (932), and a conductive portion (933)) that are visible to the outside. Among the conductive portions of the third set, a non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (991) and a non-conductive portion (992)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions.

[0255] The conductive portion (911) may be arranged to face the conductive portion (931) and the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930). The area of ​​the conductive portion (932) facing the conductive portion (911) may be larger than the area of ​​the conductive portion (931) facing the conductive portion (911). Accordingly, the conductive portion (911), which is the main radiator, may become a source, and the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930), which is a metal facing the conductive portion (911), may be used as a radiator. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (943) connected to the conductive portion (932). As a non-limiting example, the conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (921) or the conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920) may be used to form additional resonance. The electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (943) connected to the conductive portion (921). The electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (944) connected to the conductive portion (922).

[0256] Referring to FIG. 22i, in an example (2200h), the electronic device (101) may include conductive portions and switching circuits. The metal frame of the first housing part (910) may include a first set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (911), conductive portion (912), and conductive portion (913)). A non-conductive portion (e.g., non-conductive portion (971) and non-conductive portion (973)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions of the first set of conductive portions. The metal frame of the second housing part (920) may include a second set of externally visible conductive portions (e.g., conductive portion (921), conductive portion (922), and conductive portion (923)). Among the conductive portions of the second set, a non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (981) and a non-conductive portion (982)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions. The metal frame of the third housing part (930) may include a third set of conductive portions (e.g., a conductive portion (931), a conductive portion (932), and a conductive portion (933)) that are visible to the outside. Among the conductive portions of the third set, a non-conductive portion (e.g., a non-conductive portion (991) and a non-conductive portion (992)) may be formed between two adjacent conductive portions.

[0257] The conductive portion (911), which is the main radiator, may serve as a source, and the conductive portion (932) of the third housing part (930), which is a metal facing the conductive portion (911), may be used as a radiator. In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (943) connected to the conductive portion (932). As a non-limiting example, the conductive portion (e.g., the conductive portion (922)) of the second housing part (920) may be used to form an additional resonance. The electronic device (101) may include a switching circuit (944) connected to the conductive portion (922).

[0258] Although the above-described examples illustrate an 'L'-shaped radiator formed across the bottom and sides of the electronic device (101), embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, an 'L'-shaped radiator formed across the top and sides of the electronic device (101) may be utilized as the primary radiator. In this case, the antenna performance of the primary radiator may be improved by forming additional resonance at the top of the electronic device (101).

[0259] An electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101), electronic device (200), electronic device (400), or electronic device (500)) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may use a main radiator (e.g., conductive portion (911)) as a source, and a conductive portion of a housing part (e.g., a second housing part (920) or a third housing part (930)) other than a housing part having the main radiator as a radiator. In order to control a resonant frequency of the radiator, the electronic device (101) may be configured to control a switching circuit connected to each conductive portion of the housing part (e.g., the second housing part (920) or the third housing part (930)).

[0260] Through this, even if the electronic device (101) is in a multi-folded state and the main radiator overlaps with a hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure (960)) or in a semi-folded state and the main radiator overlaps with a display (e.g., flexible display (240) or flexible display (540)), the antenna performance (e.g., reflection coefficient, radiation efficiency, or overall efficiency) of the corresponding frequency band can be improved. As additional resonance is formed through at least one radiator (e.g., conductive portion (921), conductive portion (922), conductive portion (923), conductive portion (931), conductive portion (932), and / or conductive portion (933)) through at least one switching circuit, the flowing current concentrated inside the electronic device (101) can be dispersed to the bottom (or top) of the electronic device (101). Due to the distributed current, the electric field can be formed strongly at the bottom (or top) of the electronic device (101), which can increase efficiency.

[0261] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0262] In embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) is provided. The electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) comprises a first housing part (910), the first housing part (910) including a first metal frame having a first set of conductive portions visible to the outside, the first set of conductive portions including a first conductive portion (911) formed at least partially on a side of the first metal frame among a top, a bottom, and a side; a second housing part (920), the second housing part (920) including a second metal frame having a second set of conductive portions visible to the outside, the second set of conductive portions including a second conductive portion (921; 922; 923); A third housing part (930), wherein the third housing part (930) includes a third metal frame having a third set of conductive portions visible to the outside, wherein the third set of conductive portions includes third conductive portions (931; 932; 933); a display supported by the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930); and a switching circuit connected to the third conductive portions (931; 932; 933). The switching circuit may be controlled to connect the third conductive portions (931; 932; 933) to at least one of one or more elements connected to ground while a signal is transmitted or received through the first conductive portion (911) while the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920).

[0263] In embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) is provided. The electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) comprises a first housing part (910), the first housing part (910) including a first metal frame having a first set of conductive portions visible to the outside, the first set of conductive portions including a first conductive portion (911) formed at least partially on a side of the first metal frame among a top, a bottom, and a side; a second housing part (920), the second housing part (920) including a second metal frame having a second set of conductive portions visible to the outside, the second set of conductive portions including a second conductive portion (921; 922; 923); A third housing part (930), wherein the third housing part (930) includes a third metal frame having a third set of conductive portions visible to the outside, wherein the third set of conductive portions includes third conductive portions (931; 932; 933); a display supported by the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930); and a switching circuit connected to the third conductive portions (931; 932; 933). The switching circuit may be controlled to connect the third conductive portions (931; 932; 933) to at least one of one or more elements connected to ground while a signal is transmitted through the first conductive portion (911) in a state where the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920).

[0264] For example, the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) may be adjacent to a non-conductive portion that at least partially overlaps the first conductive portion (911) or is aligned with a non-conductive portion adjacent to the first conductive portion (911) when the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920).

[0265] For example, the switching circuit may include a switch configured to connect or not connect the one or more elements and the at least one element among the one or more elements to the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933). A first resonant frequency according to the first conductive portion (911) may be different from a second resonant frequency according to the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) connected to the at least one element through the switching circuit.

[0266] For example, the second switching circuit connected to the second conductive portion (921; 922; 923) may be controlled to connect the second conductive portion (921; 922; 923) to at least one of one or more elements connected to a second ground while a signal is transmitted through the first conductive portion (911) in a state where the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). The second conductive portion (921; 922; 923) may be connected to a second printed circuit board (PCB) included in the second housing part (920) through a connecting member. The second switching circuit may be disposed on the second PCB. The second ground may be connected to a support portion that is disposed within the second housing part (920) and formed of metal.

[0267] For example, the electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) may include a first hinge structure that rotatably couples the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920); and a second hinge structure that rotatably couples the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). When the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920), the first conductive portion (911) may at least partially overlap the second hinge structure.

[0268] For example, the second switching circuit connected to the second conductive portion (921; 922; 923) may be controlled to connect the second conductive portion (921; 922; 923) to at least one of one or more elements connected to a second ground while a signal is transmitted through the first conductive portion (911) in a state where the first housing part (910) is arranged toward the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930) is arranged outside the space between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). The second conductive portion (921; 922; 923) may be connected to a second printed circuit board (PCB) included in the second housing part (920) through a connecting member. The second switching circuit may be arranged on the second PCB. The above second ground can be connected to a support portion formed of metal and placed within the second housing part (920).

[0269] For example, the electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) may include a first hinge structure that rotatably couples the first housing part (910) and the third housing part (930); and a second hinge structure that rotatably couples the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930). When positioned between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920), the first conductive portion (911) may at least partially overlap the second hinge structure.

[0270] For example, the conductive portions of the first set may include a fourth conductive portion. A non-conductive portion may be disposed between the first conductive portion (911) and the fourth conductive portion. A third switching circuit connected to the fourth conductive portion may be controlled to connect the fourth conductive portion to ground while a signal is transmitted through the first conductive portion (911) in a state where the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920). The third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) may be adjacent to a hinge structure that rotatably couples the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930) among the conductive portions of the third set.

[0271] For example, the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) may at least partially overlap the first conductive portion (911) when the third housing part (930) is positioned between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920).

[0272] For example, the first housing part (910) may include a first set of non-conductive portions, including a non-conductive portion positioned between every two adjacent conductive portions among the first set of conductive portions. The second housing part (920) may include a second set of non-conductive portions, including a non-conductive portion positioned between every two adjacent conductive portions among the second set of conductive portions. The third housing part (930) may include a third set of non-conductive portions, including a non-conductive portion positioned between every two adjacent conductive portions among the third set of conductive portions. Among the non-conductive portions of the first set, a non-conductive portion adjacent to the first conductive portion (911) can be aligned with a non-conductive portion adjacent to the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) among the non-conductive portions of the third set when looking at the bottom of the first metal frame while the third housing part (930) is positioned between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920).

[0273] For example, the first housing part (910) may include a first set of non-conductive portions, including a non-conductive portion disposed between every two adjacent conductive portions among the first set of conductive portions. A non-conductive portion adjacent to the first conductive portion (911) among the first set of non-conductive portions may be disposed at a position corresponding to an area of ​​the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) without being aligned with a non-conductive portion adjacent to the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) when the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920).

[0274] For example, the first conductive portion (911) may have an 'L' shape across the side and top of the first metal frame or across the side and bottom of the first metal frame.

[0275] For example, the electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) may include a wireless communication circuit. The wireless communication circuit may be configured to radiate a signal through the first conductive portion (911).

[0276] For example, a signal transmitted through the first conductive portion (911) may be transmitted in a frequency band less than about 1 gigahertz (GHz). A portion of the first conductive portion (911) may be formed on the top or bottom of the first metal frame. Another portion of the first conductive portion (911) may be formed on a side surface of the first metal frame.

[0277] For example, one or more elements of the switching circuit may include at least one inductor or at least one capacitor.

[0278] In embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) is provided. The electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) may include a first housing part (910) including a first conductive portion (911), a second housing part (920) including a second conductive portion (921; 922; 923), a third housing part (930) including a third conductive portion (931; 932; 933); and a display supported by the first housing part (910), the second housing part (920), and the third housing part (930). The first part of the first conductive part (911) may be formed at the top or bottom of the first housing part (910), and the second part of the first conductive part (911) may be formed on a side surface of the first housing part (910) by extending from the first part. The first conductive part (911) may be arranged to at least partially overlap with a second hinge structure that rotatably connects the second housing part (920) and the third housing part (930) when the third housing part (930) is arranged between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920), or with a part of the display corresponding to the second hinge structure. The switching circuit of the third housing part (930) can be controlled to connect the third conductive part (931; 932; 933) to at least one element among one or more elements connected to the ground while a signal is transmitted through the first conductive part (911) in a state where the third housing part (930) is arranged between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920).

[0279] For example, a signal transmitted through the first conductive portion (911) may be transmitted on a frequency band less than about 1 GHz (gigahertz). The first conductive portion (911) may have an 'L' shape.

[0280] For example, the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) may be connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) included in the third housing part (930) through a connecting member. The switching circuit may be arranged on the PCB. The ground may be connected to a support portion formed of metal and arranged within the third housing part (930). A first resonant frequency according to the first conductive portion (911) may be different from a second resonant frequency according to the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) connected to the at least one element through the switching circuit.

[0281] For example, the switching circuit may include one or more elements arranged on the PCB and a switch configured to connect or not connect at least one element among the one or more elements with the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933). One or more elements of the switching circuit may include at least one inductor or at least one capacitor.

[0282] For example, among the conductive portions of the third housing part (930), the third conductive portion (931; 932; 933) may be adjacent to a non-conductive portion that at least partially overlaps the first conductive portion (911) or is aligned with a non-conductive portion adjacent to the first conductive portion (911) when the third housing part (930) is disposed between the first housing part (910) and the second housing part (920).

[0283] For one or more embodiments, at least one of the components described in one or more of the preceding drawings may be configured to perform one or more operations, techniques, processes, and / or methods as described herein. For example, a processor (e.g., a baseband processor) described herein with respect to one or more of the preceding drawings may be configured to operate according to one or more examples described herein. For another example, circuitry associated with a user equipment (UE), a base station, a network element, and the like, as described above with respect to one or more of the preceding drawings, may be configured to operate according to one or more examples described herein.

[0284] Any of the embodiments described above may be combined with any other embodiment (or combination of embodiments) unless explicitly stated otherwise. The foregoing description of one or more implementations provides examples and descriptions, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limit the scope of the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be learned from practicing various embodiments.

[0285] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0286] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0287] 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).

[0288] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0289] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0290] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A first housing part, wherein the first housing part comprises a first metal frame having a first set of conductive portions visible to the outside, wherein the first set of conductive portions comprises a first conductive portion formed at least partially on a side of the first metal frame, among a top, a bottom, and a side; A second housing part, said second housing part including a second metal frame having a second set of conductive portions visible to the outside, said second set of conductive portions including a second conductive portion; A third housing part, said third housing part including a third metal frame having a third set of conductive portions visible to the outside, said third set of conductive portions including a third conductive portion; A display supported by the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part; and including a switching circuit connected to the third conductive portion; The switching circuit is controlled to connect the third conductive part to at least one element among one or more elements connected to ground while a signal is transmitted or received through the first conductive part, while the third housing part is arranged between the first housing part and the second housing part. Electronic devices.

2. In claim 1, The third conductive portion is adjacent to a non-conductive portion that at least partially overlaps the first conductive portion or is aligned with a non-conductive portion adjacent to the first conductive portion, while the third housing part is positioned between the first housing part and the second housing part. Electronic devices.

3. In claim 1, The switching circuit comprises a switch configured to connect or not connect at least one of the one or more elements and the one or more elements to the third conductive portion, The first resonant frequency according to the first conductive portion is different from the second resonant frequency according to the third conductive portion connected to the at least one element through the switching circuit. Electronic devices.

4. In claim 1, The second switching circuit connected to the second conductive portion is controlled to connect the second conductive portion to at least one of one or more elements connected to the second ground while a signal is transmitted through the first conductive portion in a state where the third housing part is disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part, The second conductive portion is connected to a second PCB (printed circuit board) included in the second housing part through a connecting member, The second switching circuit is arranged on the second PCB, The second ground is connected to a support portion formed of metal and placed within the second housing part. Electronic devices.

5. In claim 1, A first hinge structure that rotatably connects the first housing part and the second housing part; and Further comprising a second hinge structure that rotatably connects the second housing part and the third housing part, In a state where the third housing part is arranged between the first housing part and the second housing part, the first conductive portion at least partially overlaps the second hinge structure. Electronic devices.

6. In claim 5, A second switching circuit connected to the second conductive portion is controlled to connect the second conductive portion with at least one of one or more elements connected to a second ground while a signal is transmitted through the first conductive portion in a state where the first housing part is arranged toward the second housing part and the third housing part is arranged outside the space between the first housing part and the second housing part, The second conductive portion is connected to a second PCB (printed circuit board) included in the second housing part through a connecting member, The second switching circuit is arranged on the second PCB, The second ground is connected to a support portion formed of metal and placed within the second housing part. Electronic devices.

7. In claim 1, A first hinge structure that rotatably connects the first housing part and the third housing part; and Further comprising a second hinge structure that rotatably connects the second housing part and the third housing part, In a state where the first conductive portion is disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part, the first conductive portion at least partially overlaps the second hinge structure. Electronic devices.

8. In claim 1, The first set of conductive portions includes a fourth conductive portion, A non-conductive portion is disposed between the first conductive portion and the fourth conductive portion, The third switching circuit connected to the fourth conductive portion is controlled to connect the fourth conductive portion to ground while a signal is transmitted through the first conductive portion, while the third housing part is arranged between the first housing part and the second housing part. The third conductive portion is adjacent to a hinge structure that rotatably connects the second housing part and the third housing part among the conductive portions of the third set. Electronic devices.

9. In claim 1, The third conductive portion is at least partially overlapped with the first conductive portion when the third housing part is positioned between the first housing part and the second housing part. Electronic devices.

10. In claim 1, The first housing part comprises a first set of non-conductive portions, the first set of non-conductive portions including a non-conductive portion disposed between every two adjacent conductive portions among the first set of conductive portions, The second housing part comprises a second set of non-conductive portions, the second set of non-conductive portions including a non-conductive portion disposed between every two adjacent conductive portions among the second set of conductive portions, The third housing part comprises a third set of non-conductive portions, including a non-conductive portion disposed between every two adjacent conductive portions among the third set of conductive portions, Among the non-conductive portions of the first set, a non-conductive portion adjacent to the first conductive portion is aligned with a non-conductive portion adjacent to the third conductive portion among the third set of non-conductive portions when looking at the bottom of the first metal frame while the third housing part is positioned between the first housing part and the second housing part. Electronic devices.

11. In claim 1, The first housing part comprises a first set of non-conductive portions, the first set of non-conductive portions including a non-conductive portion disposed between every two adjacent conductive portions among the first set of conductive portions, Among the non-conductive portions of the first set, the non-conductive portion adjacent to the first conductive portion is disposed at a position corresponding to an area of ​​the third conductive portion and is not aligned with the non-conductive portion adjacent to the third conductive portion, while the third housing part is disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part. Electronic devices.

12. In claim 1, The first conductive portion has an 'L' shape across the side and top of the first metal frame or across the side and bottom of the first metal frame. Electronic devices.

13. In claim 1, Further comprising a wireless communication circuit, The above wireless communication circuit is configured to radiate a signal through the first conductive portion. Electronic devices.

14. In claim 13, The signal transmitted through the first conductive portion is transmitted on a frequency band less than about 1 GHz (gigahertz), A part of the first conductive portion is formed on the top or bottom of the first metal frame, Another part of the first conductive portion is formed on the side of the first metal frame, Electronic devices.

15. In claim 1, One or more elements of the switching circuit include at least one inductor or at least one capacitor, Electronic devices.

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