Foldable electronic device including hinge device

Abstract

A foldable electronic device according to various embodiments may comprise a first housing, a second housing, a flexible display supported by the first housing and the second housing, and at least one first hinge device connecting the first housing and the second housing to be able to rotate with respect to each other. The at least one first hinge device may comprise a first shaft, a second shaft substantially parallel to the first shaft, a first arm connected to the first shaft, a second arm connected to the second shaft, and a shaft bracket coupled to an end of the first shaft and an end of the second shaft. The shaft bracket may comprise a bracket body, a first coupling part extending to one side of the bracket body and including a first accommodation part for accommodating the first shaft, and a second coupling part extending to the other side of the bracket body and including a second accommodation part for accommodating the second shaft.

Description

Foldable electronic device including a hinge device

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a foldable electronic device including a hinge device.

[0002] As the functional gap between manufacturers significantly narrows, electronic devices are becoming increasingly slimmer to meet consumer purchasing demands. These devices are also undergoing improvements to increase their rigidity, enhance their design, and differentiate their functional elements. These electronic devices are moving beyond their standard rectangular form factor and evolving into diverse shapes. For example, electronic devices may have a transformable structure that allows for portability while also enabling the use of large-screen displays. As part of this trend, foldable electronic devices, which feature at least two housings rotatably joined to each other, are continually being released. This demand for improved operational reliability, particularly during frequent folding, may be a key requirement.

[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-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] An electronic device (e.g., a portable communication device) may include a foldable electronic device (or multi-foldable electronic device) that can expand its display area. The foldable electronic device may be foldable by having at least two housings that are rotatably coupled to each other through at least one hinge device (e.g., a hinge module). The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display that is arranged to be supported by the at least two housings. For example, the foldable electronic device may have improved portability in a fully folded state, and may provide a user with a large screen through the flexible display in a fully unfolded state by having the at least two housings positioned side by side.

[0005] At least one hinge device may include at least one cam structure rotatably coupled to each of two housings, and including arms (e.g., arm members) including cams (e.g., cam structures), and another cam (e.g., another cam structure) cam-engaged with the cams of the arms. The at least one cam structure may be arranged to be biased in the direction of the cam of the arm via at least one biasing member (e.g., a spring). The foldable electronic device may provide a continuous biasing force in an unfolding direction or a folding direction based on a specified inflection angle, or may help maintain a specific folding angle, via the cam engagement of the cams of the arms and the at least one cam structure.

[0006] At least one hinge device may include at least one shaft (e.g., a hinge shaft) extending through the arms and cam structure to provide at least one axis of rotation during the folding motion. The at least one shaft may be secured to the arms via a washer and / or an E-ring after being extended through the arms.

[0007] However, the washer and / or the ring may be damaged or deformed due to the continuous folding motion of the foldable electronic device or the strong pressure of the press member. Damage and / or deformation of the ring or washer may cause malfunction of the foldable electronic device and reduce the reliability of the device. Furthermore, the relatively small size of the washer and / or ring that is ultimately secured to the shaft may increase assembly work and impede workability.

[0008] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a foldable electronic device including a hinge device configured to facilitate smooth folding operation even when used for a long period of time.

[0009] Various embodiments may provide a foldable electronic device including a hinge device configured to help improve device reliability even under strong pressing forces of a pressing member.

[0010] Various embodiments may provide a foldable electronic device including a hinge device that may provide improved workability by reducing assembly man-hours.

[0011] However, the problem to be solved in this disclosure is not limited to the problem mentioned above, and may be expanded in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0012] According to various embodiments, a foldable electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing, a flexible display supported by the first housing and the second housing, and at least one first hinge device rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing with respect to each other. The at least one first hinge device may include a first shaft, a second shaft substantially parallel to the first shaft, a first arm connected to the first shaft, a second arm connected to the second shaft, and a shaft bracket connected to an end of the first shaft and an end of the second shaft. The shaft bracket may include a bracket body, a first coupling portion extending to one side of the bracket body and including a first receiving portion for receiving the first shaft, and a second coupling portion extending to the other side of the bracket body and including a second receiving portion for receiving the second shaft.

[0013] Foldable electronic devices according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can help improve operational reliability by maintaining durability even under frequent folding operations or strong pressing force from a pressing member by including a shaft bracket that is fastened to the ends of a pair of arms and a pair of shafts penetrating a hinge structure without an earring and / or a washer. In addition, the reduction in assembly work due to the elimination of an earring and / or a washer can help improve assembly efficiency.

[0014] In addition, various effects may be provided, either directly or indirectly, through this document.

[0015] 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.

[0016] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of a foldable electronic device in a fully unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 2b is a plan view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 2C is a rear perspective view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 3A is a front perspective view of a foldable electronic device in a fully folded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIGS. 3b and 3c are perspective views showing the rear surface of a foldable electronic device in a folded state from various directions according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIGS. 4A to 4C are drawings illustrating the operating states of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 4d is a cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device taken along line 4d-4d of FIG. 4c according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 5A is an exploded perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 5b is a plan view of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIGS. 7A to 7P are schematic diagrams illustrating an assembly process of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 8A is a plan view of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 8b is a drawing illustrating a state in which a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is coupled to a hinge housing.

[0031] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge device taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8b according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIGS. 10A and 10B are cross-sectional views of a hinge device in an unfolded state and a folded state along line 10-10 of FIG. 8B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIGS. 11A and 11B are cross-sectional views of a hinge device in an unfolded state and a folded state along line 11-11 of FIG. 8B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIGS. 12A and 12B are cross-sectional views of a hinge device in an unfolded state and a folded state along line 12-12 of FIG. 8B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 13a is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a pair of cam structures according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are coupled to a pair of arms.

[0036] FIG. 13b is a perspective view of a shaft bracket according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIGS. 14a to 14c are schematic diagrams illustrating a preliminary assembly process of a shaft bracket according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIGS. 15A and 15B are drawings illustrating the arrangement structure of shaft brackets and arms according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIGS. 16A to 16D are schematic diagrams illustrating an assembly process of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 17A is a partial perspective view of a hinge device showing a state in which a shaft bracket is pre-assembled to shafts according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 17b is a drawing illustrating the arrangement structure of the shaft bracket and arms along line 17b-17b of FIG. 17a according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 18b is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a hinge device taken along line 18b-18b of FIG. 18a according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIGS. 19A to 19C are schematic diagrams illustrating an assembly process of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIGS. 21A to 21F are schematic diagrams illustrating an assembly process of the hinge device of FIG. 20 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0050] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0051] 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.

[0052] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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).

[0055] 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.

[0056] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0057] 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).

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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).

[0061] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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).

[0066] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0067] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0068] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0069] 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)).

[0070] According to various embodiments, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0071] FIG. 2A is a front perspective view of a foldable electronic device in a fully unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B is a plan view of the foldable electronic device in a fully unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2C is a rear perspective view of the foldable electronic device in a fully unfolded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 3A is a front perspective view of a foldable electronic device in a fully folded state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIGS. 3B and 3C are perspective views showing the rear surface of the foldable electronic device in a fully folded state from various directions according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0073] The foldable electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2A to 3C may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or may further include other embodiments of the foldable electronic device.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 2A to 3C, a foldable electronic device (200) (e.g., a portable communication device, an electronic device, or a multi-foldable electronic device) (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) includes a first housing (210) (e.g., a first housing portion), a second housing (220) (e.g., a second housing portion) rotatably connected to the first housing (210) in a direction (e.g., a right side) of the first housing (210) (e.g., an x-axis direction) through a first hinge assembly (e.g., a first hinge assembly (HA1) of FIG. 4D), with respect to a first folding axis (F1), and a second hinge assembly (e.g., a second hinge assembly (HA2) of FIG. 4D), with respect to the second folding axis (F2) in a direction (e.g., a -x-axis direction) of the other side (e.g., a left side) of the first housing (210), with respect to the first housing (210). It may include a rotatably connected third housing (230) (e.g., a third housing portion). In one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (HA1) may include a first hinge housing (266) that accommodates at least one first hinge device (e.g., at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1) of FIG. 5A) (e.g., a first hinge module or a first hinge structure) connecting the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and the second hinge assembly (HA2) may include a second hinge housing (267) that accommodates at least one second hinge device (e.g., at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) of FIG. 5A) (e.g., a second hinge module or a second hinge structure) connecting the first housing (210) and the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the first hinge device (310, 310-1) may include a first housing (210) and a second The housing (220) can be covered (concealed) so as not to be visible from the outside through the first hinge housing (266) while in a fully folded state or a folded state.In one embodiment, the first hinge housing (266) may be arranged so as not to be visible from the outside when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a fully unfolded state. In one embodiment, the second hinge device (320, 320-1) may be covered so as not to be visible from the outside through the second hinge housing (267) while the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are in a fully folded state or a folding state. In one embodiment, the second hinge housing (267) may be arranged so as not to be visible from the outside when the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are in a fully unfolded state. In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a foldable housing (e.g., a multi-foldable housing) configured through a first housing (210), a second housing (220), a third housing (230), a first hinge housing (266), and a second hinge housing (267). In some embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a foldable housing configured through a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (240) (e.g., a first display) arranged to be supported by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a sub-display (250) (e.g., a second display) arranged in the third housing (230). In this document, the surface on which the flexible display (240) is placed may be defined as the front surface of the foldable electronic device (200), and the surface opposite the front surface may be defined as the back surface of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the back surface may be defined as the side surface of the electronic device (200).In this document, a state in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) of the foldable electronic device (200) are fully unfolded may be defined as a 'first state' or a 'fully unfolded state', a state in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are fully folded with respect to each other may be defined as a 'second state' or a 'fully folded state', and a state in which only the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded with respect to each other may be defined as a 'third state' or an 'intermediate state'.

[0075] According to various embodiments, the first housing (210) may include a first side (211), a second side (212) facing in an opposite direction to the first side (211), and a first side member (213) surrounding a first space (2101) between the first side (211) and the second side (212). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first side member (213) may form at least a portion of a side surface of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the first side member (213) may include a first side surface (2131) and a second side surface (2132) positioned opposite the first side surface (2131). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first rear cover (214) coupled with the first side member (213). In one embodiment, the first space (2101) may be formed by a first rear cover (214) coupled with a first side member (213) on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210).

[0076] According to various embodiments, the second housing (220) may include a third side (221), a fourth side (222) facing opposite to the third side (221), and a second side member (223) surrounding a second space (2201) between the third side (221) and the fourth side (222). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the second side member (223) may form at least a portion of a side surface of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the second side member (223) may include a third side surface (2231), a fourth side surface (2232) extending perpendicularly from the third side surface (2231), and a fifth side surface (2233) extending from the fourth side surface (2232) and being parallel to the third side surface (2231). In one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second rear cover (224) coupled with a second side member (223). In one embodiment, the sub-display (250) may be replaced to be disposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover (224) in the second housing (220). In some embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may include an additional sub-display disposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover (224) in the second housing (220). In this case, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are fully folded and the third housing (230) is partially folded (e.g., the third housing (230) is folded at an angle of about 90 degrees with respect to the first housing (210), the sub-display disposed on the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220) may be disposed to be visible from the outside. In one embodiment, the second space (2201) may be formed through a second rear cover (224) coupled with a second side member (223) on the fourth surface (222).

[0077] According to various embodiments, the third housing (230) may include a fifth side (231), a sixth side (232) facing opposite to the fifth side (231), and a third side member (233) surrounding a third space (2301) between the fifth side (231) and the sixth side (232). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the third side member (233) may form at least a portion of a side surface of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the third side member (233) may include a sixth side surface (2331), a seventh side surface (2332) extending in a direction perpendicular to the sixth side surface (2331), and an eighth side surface (2333) extending from the seventh side surface (2332) and being parallel to the sixth side surface (2331). In one embodiment, the third space (2301) may be formed through a third rear cover (234) coupled with a third side member (233) on the sixth side (2331).

[0078] According to various embodiments, the first side (2131), the third side (2231), and the sixth side (2331) may form the same side (e.g., the lower side) of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the second side (2132), the fifth side (2233), and the eighth side (2333) may form the same side (e.g., the upper side) of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the fourth side (2232) may form one side (e.g., the right side) of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the seventh side (2332) may form one side (e.g., the left side) of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0079] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may be configured such that, in an unfolded state (e.g., a first state), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are positioned side by side so that the first side (211), the third side (221), and the fifth side (231) face the same direction. In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may be configured such that, in a folded state (e.g., a second state), the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are positioned in a sequentially stacked manner so that the first side (211) and the third side (221) face each other, and the fourth side (222) and the fifth side (231) face each other. In this case, the second side (212) and the sixth side (232) may be visible from the outside, and the first side (211), the third side (221), the fourth side (222), and the fifth side (231) may be positioned so as not to be visible from the outside. In one embodiment, the sub-display (250) may be positioned so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the sixth side (232), in the unfolded and / or folded state.

[0080] According to various embodiments, the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may have different sizes. In one embodiment, the first housing (210) may have a first width (HW1), the second housing (220) may have a second width (HW2) smaller than the first width (HW1), and the third housing (230) may have a third width (HW3) larger than the first width (HW1). For example, by defining these widths (HW1, HW2, HW3) of the housings (210, 220, 230), the foldable electronic device (200) may be configured so that none of the housings protrudes outward when folded, thereby helping to improve an attractive appearance and portability. However, it is not limited thereto, and at least two of the first, second, and third widths (HW1, HW2, HW3) may be configured to be identical to each other.

[0081] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (240) may include a first region (240a) corresponding to at least a portion of the first housing (210), a second region (240b) extending from one side (e.g., a right side) of the first region (240a) and corresponding to at least a portion of the second housing (220), and a third region (240c) extending from the other side (e.g., a left side) of the first region (240a) and corresponding to at least a portion of the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the flexible display (240) may include a portion of a first region (240a) and a portion of a second region (240b), a fourth region (240d) that is bendable (e.g., a first folding region) corresponding to a first hinge assembly (HA1), and a fifth region (240e) that is bendable (e.g., a second folding region) corresponding to a second hinge assembly (HA2) and a portion of a first region (240a) and a portion of a third region (240c). In one embodiment, the region division of the flexible display (240) is merely an exemplary division by three housings (210, 220, 230) and two hinge assemblies (HA1, HA2), and the flexible display (240) may be displayed as a substantially seamless, single full screen. In one embodiment, the first region (240a) and the second region (240b) may have an overall symmetrical shape or a partially asymmetrical shape with respect to the fourth region (240d) and / or the first folding axis (F1). In one embodiment, the first region (240a) and the third region (240c) may have an overall symmetrical shape or a partially asymmetrical shape with respect to the fifth region (240e) and / or the second folding axis (F2). In one embodiment, the first folding width (BW1) of the fourth region (240d) may be smaller than the second folding width (BW2) of the fifth region (240e) in a direction perpendicular to the first folding axis (F1) (e.g., the x-axis direction). In some embodiments, the area of ​​the fourth region (240d) may be smaller than the area of ​​the fifth region (240e).This may be due to the fact that the first hinge assembly (HA1) connecting the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and the second hinge assembly (HA2) connecting the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) are different from each other. For example, the size of at least one first hinge device (e.g., narrow hinge device or narrow hinge module) of the first hinge assembly (HA1) connecting the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be smaller than the size of at least one second hinge device (e.g., wide hinge module or wide hinge module) of the second hinge assembly (HA2) connecting the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) and folding the flexible display (240) in a folded state. Through this configuration, the second hinge housing (267) can have a first receiving width (W1) greater than the thickness of the first housing (210), and the first hinge housing (266) can have a second receiving width (W2) smaller than the first receiving width (W1).

[0082] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include a first rear cover (214) disposed on a second side (212) of a first housing (210), a second rear cover (224) disposed on a fourth side (222) of a second housing (220), and a third rear cover (234) disposed on a sixth side (232) of a third housing (230). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first rear cover (214) may be formed integrally with the first side member (213). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the second rear cover (224) may be formed integrally with the second side member (223). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the third rear cover (234) may be formed integrally with the third side member (233). In one embodiment, at least one of the first back cover (214), the second back cover (224), and the third back cover (234) may be formed of a substantially transparent plate (e.g., a glass plate including various coating layers, or a polymer plate) or an opaque plate. In one embodiment, the first back cover (214) and the second back cover (224) may be formed of an opaque plate, such as, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of the foregoing materials. In one embodiment, the third back cover (234) may be formed of a substantially transparent plate, such as, for example, glass or polymer. Accordingly, the sub-display (250) may be arranged so as to be visible from the outside through the third back cover (234) in the third space (2301) of the third housing (230).

[0083] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first protective frame (261) (e.g., a first decorative member) and a second protective frame (262) (e.g., a second decorative member) disposed in a first housing (210) and arranged to cover an edge of a first region (240a) of a flexible display (240). In one embodiment, the first protective frame (261) may be disposed along a first side (2131) of the first housing (210), and the second protective frame (262) may be disposed along a second side (2132). In one embodiment, an edge of the flexible display (240) corresponding to the first housing (210) may be concealed from the outside through the first and second protective frames (261, 262). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a third protective frame (263) (e.g., a third decorative member) disposed in the second housing (220) and arranged to cover an edge of a second region (240b) of the flexible display (240). In one embodiment, the third protective frame (263) may be disposed along a third side (2231), a fourth side (2232), and a fifth side (2233) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, an edge of the flexible display (240) corresponding to the second housing (220) may be concealed from the outside through the third protective frame (263). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a fourth protective frame (264) (e.g., a fourth decorative member) disposed in the third housing (230) and arranged to cover an edge of the third area (240c) of the flexible display (240). In one embodiment, the fourth protective frame (264) may be disposed along the sixth side (2331), the seventh side (2332), and the eighth side (2333) of the third housing (230).In one embodiment, the edge of the flexible display (240) corresponding to the third housing (230) may be concealed from the outside through the fourth protective frame (264). In some embodiments, at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth protective frames (261, 262, 263, 264) may be omitted.

[0084] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first protective member (265a) (e.g., a first protective cap) disposed between the first protective frame (261) and the third protective frame (263) in the fourth region (240d) and arranged to cover at least a portion of an edge of the flexible display (240), and a second protective member (265b) disposed between the second protective frame (262) and the third protective frame (263) and arranged to cover at least a portion of an edge of the flexible display (240). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a third protective member (265c) (e.g., a third protective cap) disposed between the first protective frame (261) and the fourth protective frame (264) in the fifth region (240e) and arranged to cover at least a portion of an edge of the flexible display (240), and a fourth protective member (265d) disposed between the second protective frame (262) and the fourth protective frame (264) and arranged to cover at least a portion of an edge of the flexible display (240). In one embodiment, at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth protective frames (265a, 265b, 265c, 265d) may be omitted.

[0085] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (200) may include at least one electronic component disposed in at least one space among the first space (2101) of the first housing (210), the second space (2201) of the second housing (220), and / or the third space (2301) of the third housing (230). In one embodiment, at least one electronic component may include a flexible display (240) (e.g., a first display) arranged to be supported by the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230), a sub-display (250) (e.g., a second display) arranged in the third housing (230), at least one microphone (271a, 271b) (e.g., an input module or input device), at least one speaker (272a, 272b, 272c, 272d) (e.g., an audio output module or audio output device), at least one camera (273a, 273b, 273c) (e.g., a camera module or camera device), at least one sensor (274a, 274b, 274c) (e.g., a sensor module), at least one key button (275) (e.g., an input device or a physical key), a connector port (276) or a socket device (277). In some embodiments, the electronic device (200) may additionally include at least one other component. In some embodiments, at least one of the above-described components may be omitted.

[0086] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (240) may be placed in a receiving space formed by the housings (210, 220, 230). For example, the flexible display (240) may be placed in a recess formed by the housings (210, 220, 230) and, when unfolded, may be placed to occupy substantially most of the front surface of the electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the sub-display (250) may be placed in a third space (2301) of the third housing (230) so as to be visible from the outside through the third rear cover (234).

[0087] In various embodiments, at least one microphone (271a, 271b) may include a first microphone (271a) positioned through a first side (2131) of the first housing (210) and a second microphone (271b) positioned through a second side (2132) of the first housing (210). In some embodiments, at least one microphone (271a, 271b) may be positioned on a third side (2231) and / or a fifth side (2233) of the second housing (220). In some embodiments, at least one microphone (271a, 271b) may be positioned on a sixth side (2331) and / or an eighth side (2333) of the third housing (230).

[0088] In various embodiments, at least one speaker (272a, 272b, 272c, 272d) may include a first speaker (272a) arranged to emit sound through a third side (2231) of the second housing (220), a second speaker (272b) arranged to emit sound through a fifth side (2233), a third speaker (272c) arranged to emit sound through a sixth side (2331) of the third housing (230), and a fourth speaker (272d) arranged to emit sound through an eighth side (2333). In one embodiment, at least one speaker (272a, 272b, 272c, 272d) may be symmetrically arranged to implement stereophonic sound (e.g., three-dimensional sound) in an unfolded or folded state of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, the second speaker (272b) or the fourth speaker (272d) may be positioned near the user's ear when folded and may be used as a receiver for calls. In some embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include an additional receiver (not shown) positioned in the third space (2301) of the third housing (230) and arranged to emit sound through a speaker hole provided in at least a portion of the third rear cover (234) or between the third rear cover (234) and the third side member (233). In some embodiments, at least one of the speakers (272a, 272b, 272c, 272d) may be replaced with a piezo speaker that operates without the hole formed in the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230).

[0089] According to various embodiments, at least one camera (273a, 273b, 273c) may be disposed in the third space (2301) of the third housing (230), and may include a first camera (273a) disposed through a fifth side (231) of the third housing (230), a second camera (273b) disposed through a second side (212) of the first housing (210), and a third camera (273c) disposed through a sixth side (232) of the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the at least one camera (273a, 273b, 273c) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. In some embodiments, at least one camera (273a, 273b, 273c) includes two or more lenses (e.g., wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors, and may be arranged together on one side of any one of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), or the third housing (230). In some embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a flash (not shown) arranged near the second camera (273b). In one embodiment, the flash may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp.

[0090] According to various embodiments, at least one sensor (274a, 274b, 274c) may generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state or an external environmental state of the foldable electronic device (200). In one embodiment, at least one sensor (274a, 274b, 274c) may include a first sensor (274a) disposed on a fifth surface (231) of the third housing (230), a second sensor (274b) disposed on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210), and / or a third sensor (274c) disposed on a sixth surface (232) of the third housing (230). In some embodiments, the at least one sensor (274a, 274b, 274c) may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a light sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an iris recognition sensor, and a distance detection sensor (e.g., a time of flight (TOF) sensor or a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may further include at least one sensor, not shown, such as at least one of a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or a fingerprint recognition sensor. In some embodiments, the fingerprint sensor may be arranged to detect a user's fingerprint through at least a portion of the key button (275).

[0091] According to various embodiments, at least one camera (273a, 273b, 273c) and / or at least one sensor (274a, 274b, 274c) may be positioned to detect the external environment through the flexible display (240) and / or the sub-display (250). For example, at least one camera (273a, 273b, 273c) and / or at least one sensor (274a, 274b, 274c) may be arranged in the first space (2101) of the first housing (210) and / or the third space (2301) of the third housing (230), below the non-active display area or the active display area of ​​the flexible display (240) and / or the sub-display (250), and may be arranged to be in contact with the external environment through an opening or transparent area perforated up to the cover member (e.g., window layer) and / or the third rear cover (234). In one embodiment, the area corresponding to the at least one camera (273a, 273c) of the flexible display (240) and / or the sub-display (250) may be formed as a transparent area having a certain transmittance as part of an area displaying content. In one embodiment, the transparent region may be formed to have a transmittance in the range of about 5% to about 30%. The transparent region may include an area overlapping with an effective area (e.g., a field of view area) of at least one camera (273a, 273c) through which light passes to be imaged by the image sensor to generate an image. For example, the transparent region of the flexible display (240) and / or the sub-display (250) may include an area where the pixel arrangement density is lower than the surrounding area. For example, the transparent region may be replaced with an opening. For example, the at least one camera (273a, 273c) may include an under-display camera (UDC) or an under-panel camera (UPC).In one embodiment, some of the cameras (273a, 273c) or some of the sensors (274a, 274c) may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the flexible display (240) and / or the sub-display (250). For example, an area of ​​the flexible display (240) and / or the sub-display (250) corresponding to at least one camera (273a, 273c) and / or at least one sensor (274a, 274c) may not require a perforated opening.

[0092] According to various embodiments, at least one key button (275) may be disposed on the seventh side (2332) of the third housing (230). This may help improve usability by arranging the sixth side (232) so that when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the sixth side (232) faces upward for using the sub-display (250), and at least one key button (275) is located on the right side. In some embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the at least one key button (275), and the key buttons that are not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys displayed on the flexible display (240) and / or the sub-display (250). In some embodiments, some of the at least one key button (275) may be implemented using at least one pressure sensor implemented through the flexible display (240) and / or the sub-display (250). In some embodiments, at least one key button (275) may be disposed on at least one of the first side (2131) or the second side (2132) of the first housing (210), the third side (2231) or the fifth side (2233) of the second housing (220), and / or the sixth side (2331) or the eighth side (2333) of the third housing (230), which may be used when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state and / or a folded state.

[0093] According to various embodiments, the connector port (276) may be arranged through the first side (2131) of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the connector port (276) may include a connector (e.g., a USB connector or an IF module (interface connector port module)) structure for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device. In some embodiments, the connector port (276) may also perform a function for transmitting and receiving audio signals with the external electronic device, or may further include a separate connector port (e.g., an ear jack hole) for performing a function for transmitting and receiving audio signals. In some embodiments, the connector port (276) may be located on at least one of the second side (2132) of the first housing (210), the third side (2231), the fourth side (2232), or the fifth side (2233) of the second housing (220), and / or the sixth side (2331), the seventh side (2332), or the eighth side (2333) of the third housing (230), which may be used when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded or folded state.

[0094] According to various embodiments, the socket device (277) may be disposed on the seventh side (2332) of the third housing (230) so that the foldable electronic device (200) can be used even when folded. In one embodiment, the socket device (277) may include a tray retractably coupled from the seventh side (2332) to accommodate a SIM card or an external memory card. In some embodiments, the socket device (277) may be disposed on the sixth side (2331) and / or the eighth side (2333) of the third housing (230). In some embodiments, the socket device (277) may be disposed on one side of the first housing (210) (e.g., at least one of the first side (2131) or the second side (2132) of FIG. 2b) or one side of the second housing (220) (e.g., at least one of the third side (2231), the fourth side (2232), or the fifth side (2233) of FIG. 2b).

[0095] According to various embodiments, at least one microphone (271a, 271b), at least one speaker (272a, 272b, 272c, 272d), at least one key button (275), connector port (276) or socket device (277) may be exposed to the external environment through at least one hole (e.g., a through hole) formed in the first housing (210), the second housing (220) and / or the third housing (230).

[0096] FIGS. 4A to 4C are diagrams illustrating the operating states of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device taken along line 4D-4D of FIG. 4C according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 4A to 4D, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220) rotatably connected to the first housing (210) in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) toward one side (e.g., the right side) of the first housing (210) via a first hinge assembly (HA1) with respect to a first folding axis (F1), and a third housing (230) rotatably connected to the first housing (210) in a direction (e.g., the -x-axis direction) toward the other side (e.g., the left side) of the first housing (210) via a second hinge assembly (HA2) with respect to a second folding axis (F2). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a flexible display (240) arranged to be supported by at least a portion of the first, second, and third housings (210, 220, 230). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a sub-display (250) arranged in the third housing (230).

[0098] According to various embodiments, in a foldable electronic device (200), in a fully unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 4A), a first side (211) of a first housing (210), a third side (221) of a second housing (220), and a fifth side (231) of a third housing (230) face in the same direction (e.g., the z-axis direction of FIG. 4A), and the entire area of ​​the flexible display (240) can be used.

[0099] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may be in an intermediate state (e.g., the state of FIG. 4b) such that the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded in an in-folding manner, such that the first surface (211) of the first housing (210) and the third surface (221) of the second housing (220) face each other. In this case, the flexible display (240) may be exposed so that only an area corresponding to the third housing (230) is visible from the outside.

[0100] According to various embodiments, when the foldable electronic device (200) transitions from an intermediate state to a fully folded state (e.g., the states of FIGS. 4c and 4d), the third housing (230) may be folded in an infolding manner so that the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220) at least partially overlaps the second housing (220), so that the fifth side (231) of the third housing (230) may face the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220). In this case, the flexible display (240) may not be visible from the outside. In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may help improve portability by being arranged in a manner in which the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) are sequentially stacked in the folded state.

[0101] According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device (200) may be arranged so that the second side (212) of the first housing (210) and the sixth side (232) of the third housing (230) are visible from the outside when in a folded state. Accordingly, the second camera (273b) and / or the second sensor (e.g., the second sensor (274b) of FIG. 2c) may be arranged through the second side (212) of the first housing (210) so that they can be used even in a folded state, and the sub-display (250) may also be arranged so that they are visible from the outside through the sixth side (232) of the third housing (230).

[0102] FIG. 5A is an exploded perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5B is a plan view of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, a foldable electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) (e.g., a first housing structure), a second housing (220) (e.g., a second housing structure) rotatably connected to one side of the first housing (210) via a first hinge assembly (HA1), a third housing (230) (e.g., a third housing structure) rotatably connected to the other side of the first housing (210) via a second hinge assembly (HA2), and a flexible display (240) arranged to be supported by the first, second, and third housings (210, 220, 230). In one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a multi-foldable electronic device that folds in such a way that the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded, or the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are folded, and then the third housing (230) is laminated to the second housing (220).

[0104] According to various embodiments, the first hinge assembly (HA1) may include a first hinge housing (266) disposed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1) (e.g., a first hinge module or a first hinge structure) accommodated in the first hinge housing (266) and rotatably connecting the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) with respect to each other. In one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (HA1) may include a first hinge plate (331) (e.g., a first wing plate) coupled with at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1) at a position corresponding to the first housing (210), a second hinge plate (332) (e.g., a second wing plate) coupled with at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1) at a position corresponding to the second housing (220), and a first center plate (333) (e.g., a first center bar) arranged to be movable in a vertical direction (e.g., a z-axis direction) according to the folding and unfolding operations of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the first center plate (333) may be arranged between the first hinge plate (331) and the second hinge plate (332). In one embodiment, the first hinge plate (331) and the second hinge plate (332) can support the back surface of the flexible display (240) by forming substantially the same plane as the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state.

[0105] According to various embodiments, the second hinge assembly (HA2) may include a second hinge housing (267) disposed between the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), and at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) (e.g., a second hinge module or a second hinge structure) accommodated in the second hinge housing (267) and rotatably connecting the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) with respect to each other. In one embodiment, the second hinge assembly (HA2) may include a third hinge plate (341) (e.g., a third wing plate) coupled with at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) at a position corresponding to the first housing (210), a fourth hinge plate (342) (e.g., a fourth wing plate) coupled with at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) at a position corresponding to the third housing (230), and a second center plate (343) (e.g., a first center bar) arranged to be movable in a vertical direction (e.g., in the z-axis direction) according to the folding and unfolding operations of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the second center plate (343) may be arranged between the third hinge plate (341) and the fourth hinge plate (342). In one embodiment, the third hinge plate (341) and the fourth hinge plate (342) can support the back surface of the flexible display (240) by forming substantially the same plane as the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state. Accordingly, when the foldable electronic device (200) is fully unfolded, the first, second, third, and fourth hinge plates (331, 332, 341, 342) and the first and second center plates (333, 343) can be configured to smoothly support the back surface of the flexible display (240) by forming substantially the same plane as the first, second, and third housings (210, 220, 230).

[0106] According to various embodiments, at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1) may include a first hinge device (310) and a second hinge device (310-1) spaced apart from each other at a specific interval in the first hinge housing (266). In one embodiment, the first hinge device (310) and the second hinge device (310-1) may have substantially the same configuration. In some embodiments, three or more of the at least one first hinge devices (310, 310-1) may be arranged. In one embodiment, at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) may include a third hinge device (320) and a fourth hinge device (320-1) spaced apart from each other at a specific interval in the second hinge housing (267) (hereinafter, referred to as “hinge housing”). In one embodiment, the third hinge device (320) and the fourth hinge device (320-1) may have substantially the same configuration. In some embodiments, three or more of the at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) may be arranged. In one embodiment, the at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1) and the at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) may be configured to have substantially the same operating mechanism, with only differences in the size and / or shape of each component. In some embodiments, the at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1) and the at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) may be configured to have different operating mechanisms.

[0107] In describing the drawings below, the third hinge device (320) (hereinafter referred to as “hinge device”) of at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) is illustrated and described, but it may have substantially the same configuration as at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1).

[0108] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 6, the hinge device (320) includes a first arm (324) arranged to rotate about a first rotation axis (X1), a second arm (325) arranged to rotate about a second rotation axis (X2) parallel to the first rotation axis (X1), a first cam structure (326) coupled with the first and second arms (324, 325) by a cam, a second cam structure (327) arranged spaced apart from the first cam structure (326) and coupled with the first and second arms (324, 325), a pressing member (CS) that presses the first and second cam structures (326, 327) in the direction of the first and second arms (324, 325), and a first arm (324) that penetrates the first and second cam structures (326, 327) and provides the first rotation axis (X1). It may include a shaft (HS1), a second shaft (HS2) penetrating through the first and second cam structures (326, 327) and the second arm (325), and providing a second rotation axis (X2), and a shaft bracket (328) simultaneously fastened to the first and second shafts (HS1, HS2) protruding from each of the first and second arms (324, 325). In one embodiment, the hinge device (320) may include a pair of idle gears (430) that are gear-engaged with a first gear (3242b) formed on a first arm (324) and a second gear (3252b) formed on a second arm (325) to induce the first and second arms (324, 325) to rotate with substantially the same amount of rotation (or rotation angle), and a gear bracket (431) for supporting the first and second gears (3242b, 3252b) and the pair of idle gears (430).

[0110] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) may include a first body (3241), a first arm portion (3242) extending from one end of the first body (3241) and having a first cam (3242a) (e.g., a first cam structure). In one embodiment, the second arm (325) may include a second body (3251), a second arm portion (3252) extending from one end of the second body (3251) and having a second cam (3252a) (e.g., a second cam structure). In one embodiment, the first cam structure (326) may include a third cam (3261) (e.g., a third cam structure) formed on one side and cam-coupled with the first cam (3242a) and a fourth cam (3262) (e.g., a fourth cam structure) formed on the other side and cam-coupled with the second cam (3252a). In one embodiment, the pressurizing member (CS) may be arranged to press the first cam structure (326) in the direction of the first arm portion (3242) and the second arm portion (3252) so as to maintain a coupled state between the first cam (3242a) of the first arm (324) and the third cam (3261) of the first cam structure (326), and so as to maintain a coupled state between the second cam (3252a) of the second arm (325) and the fourth cam (3262) of the first cam structure (326).

[0111] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) may include a third arm portion (3243) extending from the other end of the first body (3241) and having a fifth cam (3243a) (e.g., a fifth cam structure). In one embodiment, the second arm (325) may include a fourth arm portion (3253) extending from the other end of the second body (3251) and having a sixth cam (3253a) (e.g., a sixth cam structure). In one embodiment, the second cam structure (327) may include a seventh cam (3271) (e.g., a seventh cam structure) formed on one side and cam-coupled with the fifth cam (3243a) and an eighth cam (3272) (e.g., an eighth cam structure) formed on the other side and cam-coupled with the sixth cam (3253a). In one embodiment, the pressurizing member (CS) may be arranged to press the second cam structure (327) in the direction of the third arm portion (3243) and the fourth arm portion (3253) (e.g., in the y-axis direction) so as to maintain the fifth cam (3243a) of the first arm (324) and the seventh cam (3271) of the second cam structure (327) in a coupled state, and to maintain the sixth cam (3253a) of the second arm (325) and the eighth cam (3272) of the second cam structure (327) in a coupled state.

[0112] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) may include a first receiving space (3245) provided between the first arm portion (3242) and the third arm portion (3243). The second arm (325) may include a second receiving space (3255) provided between the second arm portion (3252) and the fourth arm portion (3253). In one embodiment, the first cam (3242a) and the fifth cam (3243a) of the first arm (324) may be formed in a direction toward the first receiving space (3245), and the second cam (3252a) and the sixth cam (3253a) of the second arm (325) may be formed in a direction toward the second receiving space (3255). Accordingly, the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) are disposed in the first receiving space (3245) and the second receiving space (3255), and the pressing member (CS) may be disposed between the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) to press the first cam structure (326) in the direction of the first arm portion (3242) and the second arm portion (3252) (e.g., in the -y-axis direction), and to press the second cam structure (327) in the direction of the third arm portion (3243) and the fourth arm portion (3253) (e.g., in the y-axis direction). In one embodiment, the pressing member (CS) may include at least one coil spring that presses the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) outward. In some embodiments, the pressurizing member (CS) may be disposed between the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) and may include another member having elasticity (e.g., an elastic member such as rubber, urethane, silicone, or an elastic member such as a torsion spring).

[0113] According to various embodiments, the first shaft (HS1) may be arranged in a manner that passes through the gear bracket (431), the first arm portion (3242) of the first arm (324), the first cam structure (326), at least one pressing member (CS), the second cam structure (327), and the third arm portion (3243) of the first arm (324). In one embodiment, the second shaft (HS2) may be arranged in a manner that passes through the gear bracket (431), the second arm portion (3252) of the second arm (325), the first cam structure (326), at least one pressing member (CS), the second cam structure (327), and the fourth arm portion (3253) of the second arm (325). For example, the first arm (324) may be arranged to be rotatable about a first rotational axis (X1) provided through the first shaft (HS1). In one embodiment, the second arm (325) can be rotatably arranged about a second rotation axis (X2) provided through a second shaft (HS2). In one embodiment, when the first arm (324) is rotated by a specific rotational amount, the second arm (325) can also be set to rotate by substantially the same rotational amount as the first arm (324) through idle gears (430) that are gear-engaged with the first gear (3242b) integrally formed with the first arm portion (3242) of the first arm (324) and the second gear (3252b) integrally formed with the second arm portion (3252) of the second arm (325).

[0114] According to various embodiments, the hinge device (320) may include a shaft bracket (328) that is simultaneously fastened to an end of a first shaft (HS1) protruding through a first arm (324) and an end of a second shaft (HS2) protruding through a second arm (325). In one embodiment, the shaft bracket (328) is fastened to the first and second shafts (HS1, HS2), thereby helping to reduce malfunctions caused by the first and second shafts (HS1, HS2) being randomly detached during operation.

[0115] According to various embodiments, the hinge device (320) may include a first bracket (321) (e.g., a rotator bracket) fixed to a receiving space of a hinge housing (e.g., the second hinge housing (267) of FIG. 5A), a first rotator (322) rotatably coupled to the first bracket (321) about a third rotation axis (X3), and a second rotator (323) rotatably coupled to the first bracket (321) about a fourth rotation axis (X4). In one embodiment, the first bracket (321) and the first rotator (322) and the first bracket (321) and the second rotator (323) may be coupled through a guide coupling structure of a guide rib and a guide slit.

[0116] According to various embodiments, the hinge device (320) may include a first link (410) that is simultaneously coupled to the first arm (324) and the first rotator (322) and secured to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 5A), and a second link (420) that is simultaneously coupled to the second arm (325) and the second rotator (323) and secured to a third housing (e.g., the third housing (230) of FIG. 5A). In some embodiments, the first arm (324) and the first rotator (322) may be secured via individual links that are each secured to the first housing (210). In some embodiments, the second arm (325) and the second rotator (323) may be secured via individual links that are each secured to the third housing (230).

[0117] According to various embodiments, the first rotator (322) may have a first part (3221) that is rotatably coupled to the first bracket (321) about a third rotation axis (X3), and a second part (3222) that is opposite to the first part (3221) may be rotatably coupled to the first fixed part (411) of the first link (410) about a fifth rotation axis (X5) via a first pin (P1) (e.g., a first hinge pin). In one embodiment, the second rotator (323) may have a third portion (3231) rotatably coupled to the first bracket (321) about a fourth rotation axis (X4), and a fourth portion (3232) opposite to the third portion (3231) may be rotatably coupled to the second fixed portion (421) of the second link (420) about a sixth rotation axis (X6) via a second pin (P2) (e.g., a second hinge pin).

[0118] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) may be coupled in such a manner that the first guide portion (3244) extended from the first body (3241) is guided to the first guide slit (412) of the first link (410). In one embodiment, the guide path of the first guide portion (3244) and the first guide slit (412) may be curved or straight. In one embodiment, the second arm (325) may be coupled in such a manner that the second guide portion (3254) extended from the second body (3251) is guided to the second guide slit (422) of the second link (420). In one embodiment, the guide path of the second guide portion (3254) and the second guide slit (422) may be curved or straight.

[0119] According to various embodiments, the hinge device (320) may include a second bracket (329) that includes a rotator support (3291) coupled with a first bracket (321) and an arm support (3292) extending from the rotator support (3291) and covering the first arm (324) and the second arm (325), with first and second rotators (322, 323) interposed therebetween. In one embodiment, the second bracket (329) may be coupled with the first bracket (321) to support stable rotational motion of the first and second rotators (322, 323), and may include first and second fastening holes (3293, 3294) for receiving a fastening member, such as a screw, for fastening to the hinge housing (267) while being at least partially aligned with the shaft bracket (328). In one embodiment, the fastening member may be penetrated through the first and second fastening holes (3293, 3294) of the second bracket (329) and then fastened to the hinge housing (267), thereby assisting the second bracket (329) in supporting the shaft bracket (328) and the first and second rotators (322, 323).

[0120] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the hinge device (320) excludes washers and / or E-rings that were applied to each of the first and second shafts (HS1, HS2) that protrude after penetrating the first and second arms (324, 325), and one shaft bracket (328) is simultaneously fastened to the first and second shafts (HS1, HS2), thereby helping to improve operational reliability by reducing breakage and deformation even when the hinge device (320) is used for a long period of time or is subjected to frequent folding operations. In addition, by eliminating a large number of washers and / or E-rings, the assembly work is reduced, thereby helping to improve assembly efficiency.

[0121] FIGS. 7A to 7P are schematic diagrams illustrating an assembly process of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) may be arranged to receive the pressure of at least one pressing member (CS). In this case, the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) may be arranged in such a way that the third cam (3261) and the fourth cam (3262) of the first cam structure (326) face opposite directions to the seventh cam (3271) and the eighth cam (3272) of the second cam structure (327). In one embodiment, the at least one pressing member (CS) may be arranged between the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) in such a way as to press the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) outwardly. In one embodiment, at least one pressing member (CS) may include four springs. However, the number of springs may not be limited. In one embodiment, the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) may move toward each other while receiving elastic force (e.g., restoring force) of at least one pressing member (CS) when pressed in a direction facing each other.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 7c, a first cam structure (326) and a second cam structure (327) coupled with at least one pressure member (CS) may be disposed between a pair of arms (324, 325). For example, the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) may be disposed in a first receiving space (3245) of the first arm (324) such that a third cam (3261) of the first cam structure (326) is cam-coupled to a first cam (3242a) of the first arm (324), and a seventh cam (3271) of the second cam structure (327) is cam-coupled to a fifth cam (3243a) of the first arm (324). At the same time, the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) may be arranged in such a manner that the fourth cam (3262) of the first cam structure (326) is cam-coupled to the second cam (3252a) of the second arm (325) in the second receiving space (3255) of the second arm (325), and the eighth cam (3272) of the second cam structure (327) is cam-coupled to the sixth cam (3253a) of the second arm (325). For example, it may be advantageous for the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) to be assembled to the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) in a state where they are pressed by the pressing member (CS) in such a way that the distance between the two cam structures (326, 327) becomes closer, as illustrated in FIG. 7B. In some embodiments, the second cam structure (327) may be omitted. In such a case, the fifth cam (3243a) of the first arm (324) and the sixth cam (3253a) of the second arm (325) may also be omitted.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 7d, in a state where the first cam structure (326) and the second cam structure (327) are assembled to the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) under the pressure of at least one pressure member (CS), the first shaft (HS1) may be arranged to penetrate the first arm portion (3242) of the first arm (324), the first cam structure (326), the at least one pressure member (CS), the second cam structure (327), and the third arm portion (3243) of the first arm (324). In one embodiment, the first shaft (HS1) may provide a first rotational axis (X1) for the first arm (324). In one embodiment, a first cam structure (326) and a second cam structure (327) pressurized by at least one pressing member (CS) are assembled to the first arm (324) and the second arm (325), and a second shaft (HS2) may be arranged to penetrate the second arm portion (3252) of the second arm (325), the first cam structure (326), the at least one pressing member (CS), the second cam structure (327), and the fourth arm portion (3253) of the second arm (325). In one embodiment, the second shaft (HS2) may provide a second rotational axis (X2) for the second arm (325).

[0125] Referring to FIGS. 7E and 7F, the shaft bracket (328) may be simultaneously fastened to the end of the protruding first shaft (HS1) after penetrating the third arm portion (3243) of the first arm (324), and the end of the protruding second shaft (HS2) after penetrating the fourth arm portion (3253) of the second arm (325). In one embodiment, the shaft bracket (328) may include a bracket body (3281), a first coupling portion (3282) extending to one side of the bracket body (3281) and coupled with the first shaft (HS1), and a second coupling portion (3283) extending to the other side of the bracket body (3281) and coupled with the second shaft (HS2). In one embodiment, the shaft bracket (328) can be mounted in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (X1) and / or the second rotation axis (X2) (e.g., in the -z-axis direction). For example, the first coupling portion (3282) of the shaft bracket (328) can be coupled to the first shaft (HS1) in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (X1) (e.g., in the -z-axis direction) through a first through hole (e.g., the first through hole (3282a) of FIG. 13B) formed in the first coupling portion (3282) and a first opening portion (3282b) extending from the outer surface to the first through hole (3282a). In one embodiment, the first through hole (3282a) and the first opening portion (3282b) (e.g., the first cutting portion) can be first receiving portions for receiving at least a portion (e.g., an end) of the first shaft (HS1). In one embodiment, the second coupling portion (3283) of the shaft bracket (328) can be coupled to the second shaft (HS2) in a direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis (X2) through a second through hole (e.g., the second through hole (3283a) of FIG. 13b) formed in the second coupling portion (3283) and a second opening (e.g., the second opening (3283b) of FIG. 13b) formed from the outer surface to the second through hole (3283a). In one embodiment, the second through hole (3283a) and the second opening (e.g., the second cutting portion) (3283b) can be a second receiving portion for receiving at least a portion (e.g., an end) of the second shaft (HS2).In one embodiment, the shaft bracket (328) may not be deviated in the direction of the first rotation axis (X1) and / or the second rotation axis (X2) (e.g., the y-axis direction) because a first cutting portion (C1) cut to have an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the first shaft (HS1) is fastened to the first through hole (3282a), and a second cutting portion (C2) cut to have an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the second shaft (HS2) is fastened to the second through hole (3283a). In one embodiment, the shaft bracket (328) may include a fastening area (3286) formed at a position corresponding to a second fastening hole (e.g., the second fastening hole (3294) of FIG. 6) of a second bracket (e.g., the second bracket (329) of FIG. 6) in the bracket body (3281). In one embodiment, the fastening region (3286) may be formed in a manner in which a portion of the bracket body (3281) is open. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the fastening region (3286) may be formed in a corresponding region of the bracket body (3281) and may include a hole for a fastening member, such as a screw, to pass through. Accordingly, the shaft bracket (328) may be fixed to the hinge housing (e.g., the second hinge housing (267) of FIG. 5A) together with the second bracket (329) through a fastening member, such as a screw.

[0126] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, instead of washers and / or E-rings, a single shaft bracket (328) is simultaneously fastened to the first and second shafts (HS1, HS2), thereby reducing breakage and deformation of the hinge device (320) even when used for a long period of time or subjected to frequent folding operations, and thereby contributing to improved operational reliability. In addition, by eliminating a large number of washers and / or E-rings, assembly work is reduced, thereby contributing to improved assembly efficiency.

[0127] Referring to FIGS. 7g to 7i, a pair of idle gears (430) may be gear-engaged with a first gear (3242b) formed on the first arm (324) and a second gear (3252b) formed on the second arm (325) between the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) in a state where the shaft bracket (328) is fastened to the first and second shafts (HS1, HS2). In one embodiment, the first and second gears (3242b, 3252b) and the pair of idle gears (430) may be prevented from being separated from the outside by fastening the gear bracket (431) and may be configured to rotate together according to the rotation of the first and second arms (324, 325).

[0128] According to various embodiments, through the assembly process of FIGS. 7A to 7I, the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) can be operated as an arm assembly (AA) that rotates to have the same rotational amount. In this case, the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) can be provided with a pressing force that continuously rotates in a rotational direction based on a specific inflection angle, or can be provided with a supporting force that continuously maintains a specific rotational position, through a configuration in which the cams (3242a, 3243a) of the first arm (324) and the cams (3252a, 3253a) of the second arm (325) are cam-coupled with the cams (3261, 3262) of the first cam structure (326) and the cams (3271, 3272) of the second cam structure (327), respectively, and are pressed through a pressing member (CS).

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 7J to 7M, the hinge device (320) may include a rotator assembly (RA) coupled with the arm assembly (AA). In one embodiment, the rotator assembly (RA) may include a first bracket (321) secured to a receiving space of a hinge housing (e.g., the second hinge housing (267) of FIG. 5A), a first rotator (322) rotatably coupled with the first bracket (321), and a second rotator (323) rotatably coupled with the first bracket (321). In one embodiment, the first rotator (322) may include a first portion (3221) and a second portion (3222) extending from the first portion (3221). In one embodiment, the second rotator (323) may include a third portion (3231) and a fourth portion (3232) extending from the third portion (3231). In one embodiment, the first rotator (322) may have a first portion (3221) rotatably coupled to the first bracket (321). In one embodiment, the second rotator (323) may have a third portion (3231) rotatably coupled to the first bracket (321).

[0130] According to various embodiments, the first rotator (322) and the second rotator (323) can be rotatably arranged between the first bracket (321) and the rotator support (3291) of the second bracket (329). In one embodiment, the rotator support (3291) of the first bracket (321) and the second bracket (329) can be fixed to each other through a fastening member (440) such as a screw, thereby helping to prevent the first and second rotators (322, 323) from coming off. In one embodiment, when the assembly of the rotator assembly (RA) is completed, the arm support (3292) extended from the rotator support (3291) of the second bracket (329) can be pre-assembled with the arm assembly (AA).

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 7n to 7o, the hinge device (320) may include a first link (410) secured to a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 5a) and a second link (420) secured to a third housing (e.g., the third housing (230) of FIG. 5a). In one embodiment, the first link (410) may be simultaneously coupled to the first arm (324) and the first rotator (322). In one embodiment, the second link (420) may be simultaneously coupled to the second arm (325) and the second rotator (323). In one embodiment, the first rotator (322) may have a second portion (3222) rotatably coupled to the first fixing portion (411) of the first link (410) via a first pin (P1). In one embodiment, the second rotator (323) may be rotatably coupled to the second fixed portion (421) of the second link (420) via the second pin (P2) such that the fourth portion (3232) is rotatably coupled to the second fixed portion (421) of the second link (420). In one embodiment, the first arm (324) may be coupled in such a manner that a first guide portion (3244) extended from the first body (3241) slides into the first guide slit (412) of the first link (410). In one embodiment, the second arm (325) may be coupled in such a manner that a second guide portion (3254) extended from the second body (3251) slides into the second guide slit (422) of the second link (420).

[0132] FIG. 8A is a plan view of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8B is a drawing illustrating a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure coupled to a hinge housing.

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the hinge device (320) may have a multi-axis rotation structure. In one embodiment, the hinge device (320) may provide a first rotational axis (X1) for the first arm (324) provided via the first shaft (HS1), a second rotational axis (X2) for the second arm (325) provided via the second shaft (HS2), a third rotational axis (X3) provided via the first bracket (321) and the first part (3221) of the first rotator (322), a fourth rotational axis (X4) provided via the first bracket (321) and the third part (3231) of the second rotator (323), a fifth rotational axis (X5) provided via the first link (410) and the second part (3222) of the first rotator (322), and a sixth rotational axis (X6) provided via the second link (420) and the fourth part (3232) of the second rotator (323). This multi-axis rotation structure can induce the third hinge plate (e.g., the third hinge plate (341) of FIG. 5A) arranged to be supported by the first link (410) and the fourth hinge plate (e.g., the fourth hinge plate (342) of FIG. 5A) arranged to be supported by the second link (420) to form the same plane as the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (200) of FIG. 5A). In addition, this multi-axis rotation structure can induce the third hinge plate (341) and the fourth hinge plate (342) to be rotated at an angle greater than the folding angle of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200).In one embodiment, the space provided by the third hinge plate (341) and the fourth hinge plate (342) being rotated at an angle greater than the folding angle of the housings (210, 230) is used as an accommodation space for accommodating a teardrop-shaped bending area of ​​the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 5A), thereby preventing permanent deformation of the flexible display (240) due to frequent folding operations and helping to facilitate smooth bending operations.

[0134] According to various embodiments, the hinge device (320) can be fixed to the receiving space (2671) of the hinge housing (267). In one embodiment, the hinge device (320) can be fixed in such a way that a fastening member (440) (e.g., a screw) passes through a first fastening hole (e.g., a first fastening hole (3293) of FIG. 6) formed in a rotator support member (3291) of the second bracket (329) and a second fastening hole (e.g., a second fastening hole (3294) of FIG. 6) formed in an arm support member (3292), and then is fastened to the hinge housing (267). Although not shown, a third hinge plate (e.g., the third hinge plate (341) of FIG. 5A) may be arranged to be supported by at least a portion of the first link (410), at least a portion of the first arm (324), and at least a portion of the second bracket (329). In one embodiment, a fourth hinge plate (e.g., the fourth hinge plate (342) of FIG. 5A) may be arranged to be supported by at least a portion of the second link (420), at least a portion of the second arm (325), and at least a portion of the second bracket (329).

[0135] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge device taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8b according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 9, the shaft bracket (328) can be fastened to the bushing (2672) of the hinge housing (267) through the fastening member (440). In one embodiment, the shaft bracket (328) can be positioned between the second bracket (329) and the hinge housing (267). For example, the shaft bracket (328) can be assembled in such a manner that the bushing (2672) of the hinge housing (267) penetrates the fastening area (3286) formed in the shaft bracket (328), and at least a portion of the upper surface of the bushing (2672) and the second bracket (329) comes into contact, and then can be fixed through the fastening member (440) that penetrates the second fastening hole (3294) of the second bracket (329). Accordingly, the shaft bracket (328) is fastened in a first direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (e.g., y-axis direction) of the first and second shafts (HS1, HS2), and then fixed to the hinge housing (267) together with the second bracket (329) through the fastening member (440), so that it can be prevented from being dislodged in a second direction (e.g., z-axis direction) opposite to the first direction.

[0137] FIGS. 10A and 10B are cross-sectional views of a hinge device in an unfolded state and a folded state along line 10-10 of FIG. 8B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, in the fully unfolded state of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) can maintain the unfolded state with the same amount of rotation about the first rotation axis (X1) and the second rotation axis (X2) through the gear engagement of a pair of idle gears (430) that are gear-engaged with the first gear (3242b) of the first arm (324) and the second gear (3252b) of the second arm (325). In this case, the first guide portion (3244) of the first arm (324) can be moved in a sliding manner along the first guide slit (412) of the first link (410), and the second guide portion (3254) of the second arm (325) can be moved in a sliding manner along the second guide slit (422) of the second link (420).

[0139] According to various embodiments, the third hinge plate (341) may be rotatably arranged about a seventh rotation axis (e.g., the seventh rotation axis (X7) of FIG. 11A) with respect to the first link (410), and the fourth hinge plate (342) may be rotatably arranged about an eighth rotation axis (e.g., the eighth rotation axis (X8) of FIG. 11A) with respect to the second link (420). Therefore, in the unfolded state, even if the first link (410) rotates along the first housing (210) and the second link (420) rotates along the third housing (230), the third hinge plate (341) and the fourth hinge plate (342) may be positioned to form the same plane for supporting the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 5A). In one embodiment, a second center plate (343) disposed between the third hinge plate (341) and the fourth hinge plate (342) and movably arranged in a vertical direction (e.g., in the z-axis direction) may also be raised to form the same plane as the first and second hinge plates (341, 342), thereby supporting the flexible display (240).

[0140] According to various embodiments, in a fully folded state of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) can be brought into a folded state with the same amount of rotation about the first rotation axis (X1) and the second rotation axis (X2) through gear engagement of a pair of idle gears (430) that are gear-engaged with the first gear (3242b) of the first arm (324) and the second gear (3252b) of the second arm (325). In this case, the third hinge plate (341) rotatably coupled to the first link (410) and the fourth hinge plate (342) rotatably coupled to the second link (420) are set to fold at an angle greater than the folding angles of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), respectively, thereby helping to provide space for accommodating and supporting a bending area in which the flexible display (240) is bent into a water drop shape.

[0141] FIGS. 11A and 11B are cross-sectional views of a hinge device in an unfolded state and a folded state along line 11-11 of FIG. 8B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0142] Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B, in the fully unfolded state of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), the first rotator (322) can be rotated about the third rotation axis (X3) with respect to the first bracket (321) and about the fifth rotation axis (X5) with respect to the first link (410). In one embodiment, the second rotator (323) can be rotated about the fourth rotation axis (X4) with respect to the first bracket (321) and about the sixth rotation axis (X6) with respect to the second link (420). In this case, the third hinge plate (341) may be arranged to be rotatable about the seventh rotation axis (X7) with respect to the first link (410), and the fourth hinge plate (342) may be arranged to be rotatable about the eighth rotation axis (X8) with respect to the second link (420). Therefore, in the unfolded state, even if the first link (410) rotates along the first housing (210) and the second link (420) rotates along the third housing (230), the third hinge plate (341) and the fourth hinge plate (342) may be positioned to be supported by at least a part of the first rotator (322) and at least a part of the second rotator (323), thereby forming the same plane for supporting a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 5A).

[0143] According to various embodiments, in a fully folded state of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), the first rotator (322) is rotated at an angle greater than the folding angle of the first housing (210) with respect to the third rotation axis (X3) and the fifth rotation axis (X5), and the second rotator (323) is rotated at an angle greater than the folding angle of the third housing (230) with respect to the fourth rotation axis (X4) and the sixth rotation axis (X6), and can support the third hinge plate (341) and the fourth hinge plate (342). Accordingly, the third hinge plate (341) rotatably coupled to the first link (410) and the fourth hinge plate (342) rotatably coupled to the second link (420) are set to fold at an angle greater than the folding angles of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), respectively, thereby helping to provide space for accommodating and supporting a bending area in which the flexible display (240) is bent into a water drop shape.

[0144] FIGS. 12A and 12B are cross-sectional views of a hinge device in an unfolded state and a folded state along line 12-12 of FIG. 8B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, in a fully unfolded state of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), an unfolding angle (e.g., about 180 degrees) between the two housings (210, 230) may be determined through a stopper structure in which at least a portion of the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) are caught on the shaft bracket (328). In one embodiment, in a fully folded state of the first housing (210) and the third housing (230), a folding angle (e.g., about 90 degrees) of each of the housings (210, 230) may be determined through a stopper structure in which at least a portion of the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) are caught on the shaft bracket (328). Accordingly, the first arm (324) may include a first arm stopper (3246) that protrudes to engage at least a portion of the shaft bracket (328) in the unfolded and / or folded state. In one embodiment, the second arm (325) may include a second arm stopper (3256) that protrudes to engage at least a portion of the shaft bracket in the unfolded and / or folded state. In some embodiments, the first arm stopper (3246) and / or the second arm stopper (3256) may be omitted.

[0146] Hereinafter, the stopper structure between the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) and the shaft bracket (328) will be described in detail.

[0147] FIG. 13a is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a pair of cam structures according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are coupled to a pair of arms. FIG. 13b is a perspective view of a shaft bracket according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 13A and 13B, the first arm (324) may include a first arm stopper (3246) that at least partially protrudes along a direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) in which a first shaft (e.g., the first shaft (HS1) of FIG. 6) penetrating the first arm (324) protrudes. In one embodiment, the first arm stopper (3246) may protrude through a third arm portion (3243). In one embodiment, the second arm (325) may include a second arm stopper (3256) that at least partially protrudes along a direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) in which a second shaft (e.g., the second shaft (HS2) of FIG. 6) penetrating the second arm (325) protrudes. In one embodiment, the second arm stopper (3256) may protrude through a fourth arm portion (3253). In one embodiment, the first arm stopper (3246) may be formed integrally with the first arm (324), and the second arm stopper (3256) may be formed integrally with the second arm (325).

[0149] According to various embodiments, the shaft bracket (328) may include a first engaging structure (3284) that at least partially protrudes from a side facing the first arm stopper (3246) and a second engaging structure (3285) that at least partially protrudes from a side facing the second arm stopper (3256). In one embodiment, the amount of rotation of the first arm (324) may be determined through engagement of the first arm stopper (3246) formed on the first arm (324) and the first engaging structure (3284) formed on the shaft bracket (328). In one embodiment, the amount of rotation of the second arm (325) may be determined through engagement of the second arm stopper (3256) formed on the second arm (325) and the second engaging structure (3285) formed on the shaft bracket (328).

[0150] According to various embodiments, the first arm stopper (3246) may include a first engaging surface (3246a) formed at one end and a second engaging surface (3246b) formed at the other end. In one embodiment, the first engaging surface (3246a) may be positioned to engage with a third engaging surface (3284a) formed in the first engaging structure (3284) of the shaft bracket (328) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state. In one embodiment, the second engaging surface (3246b) may be positioned to engage with a fourth engaging surface (3284b) of the first engaging structure (3284) of the shaft bracket (328) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state. In one embodiment, the second arm stopper (3256) may include a fifth engaging surface (3256a) formed at one end and a sixth engaging surface (3256b) formed at the other end. In one embodiment, the fifth engaging surface (3256a) may be positioned to engage with a seventh engaging surface (3285a) formed in a second engaging structure (3285) of the shaft bracket (328) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state. In one embodiment, the sixth engaging surface (3256b) may be positioned to engage with an eighth engaging surface (3285b) of the second engaging structure (3285) of the shaft bracket (328) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state.

[0151] According to various embodiments, the shaft bracket (328) may include a bracket body (3281), a first coupling portion (3282) extending from the bracket body (3281) to one side, and a second coupling portion (3283) extending from the other side. In one embodiment, the first coupling portion (3282) may include a first through-hole (3282a) for receiving a first shaft (e.g., the first shaft (HS1) of FIG. 6), and the second coupling portion (3283) may include a second through-hole (3283a) for receiving a second shaft (e.g., the second shaft (HS2) of FIG. 6). In one embodiment, the first coupling portion (3282) may include a first opening portion (3282b) extending from an outer surface to the first through-hole (3282a). In one embodiment, the second coupling portion (3283) may include a second opening portion (3283b) extending from the outer surface to the second through hole (3283a). Accordingly, the shaft bracket (328) may be fastened in such a manner that the first cut portion (e.g., the first cut portion (C1) of FIG. 7d) of the first shaft (HS1) is received in the first through hole (3282a) through the first opening portion (3282b), and the second cut portion (e.g., the second cut portion (C2) of FIG. 7d) of the second shaft (HS2) is received in the second through hole (3283a) through the second opening portion (3283b). For example, the shaft bracket (328) may be fastened in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (X1) and / or the second rotation axis (X2) (e.g., the -z-axis direction). In one embodiment, the first diameter (d1) of the first through hole (3282a) may be set to be substantially the same as the first width (d2) of the first opening (3282b). In this case, the outer diameter of the first cutting portion (C1) of the first shaft (HS1) may be set to be substantially the same as the first diameter (d1) of the first through hole (3282a). In addition, the second diameter (d3) of the second through hole (3283a) may be set to be substantially the same as the second width (d4) of the second opening (3283b).In this case, the outer diameter of the second cutting portion (C2) of the second shaft (HS2) may be set to be substantially the same as the second diameter (d3) of the second through hole (3283a). In some embodiments, the first width (d2) of the first opening (3282b) may be set to be smaller than the first diameter (d1) of the first through hole (3282a), and the second width (d4) of the second opening (3283b) may be set to be smaller than the second diameter (d3) of the second through hole (3283a).

[0152] FIGS. 14a to 14c are schematic diagrams illustrating a preliminary assembly process of a shaft bracket according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 14A, it may be advantageous for the shaft bracket (328) to be fastened in a state where the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) are rotated by a specific angle in the direction in which they are to be unfolded from a completely folded state. This is because, when the shaft bracket (328) is unfolded at a specific angle, the gap between the first arm stopper (3246) and the second arm stopper (3256) is widened compared to when it is in a completely folded state, which may help the shaft bracket (328) to be easily fastened in a vertical direction (e.g., -z-axis direction). In one embodiment, the shaft bracket (328) may also be fastened in a state where the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) are rotated by a specific angle in the direction in which they are to be folded from a completely unfolded state.

[0154] Referring to Fig. 14b, the shaft bracket (328) can be set to be continuously pressed in the unfolding direction through the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) while being pre-assembled to the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2). For example, the shaft bracket (328) can help improve the assembling performance by continuously maintaining the assembled state through a pressing force in which the first engaging surface (3246a) of the first arm stopper (3246) presses the third engaging surface (3284a) of the shaft bracket (328) in the direction of the second shaft (HS2) (e.g., -x-axis direction), and the fifth engaging surface (3256a) of the second arm stopper (3256) presses the seventh engaging surface (3285a) of the shaft bracket (328) in the direction of the first shaft (HS1) (e.g., x-axis direction).

[0155] Referring to Fig. 14c, the shaft bracket (328) can be set to be continuously pressed in the folding direction through the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) while being pre-assembled to the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2). For example, the shaft bracket (328) can help improve the assembling performance by continuously maintaining the assembled state through a pressing force in which the second engaging surface (3246b) of the first arm stopper (3246) presses the fourth engaging surface (3284b) of the shaft bracket (328) in the direction of the second shaft (HS2) (e.g., -x-axis direction) and the sixth engaging surface (3256b) of the second arm stopper (3256) presses the eighth engaging surface (3285b) of the shaft bracket (328) in the direction of the first shaft (HS1) (e.g., x-axis direction).

[0156] FIGS. 15A and 15B are drawings illustrating the arrangement structure of shaft brackets and arms according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 15a and 15b, the shaft bracket (328) can be set to be continuously pressed in the unfolding direction through the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) while being pre-assembled to the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2). For example, the shaft bracket (328) can help improve the assembling performance by continuously maintaining the assembled state through a pressing force in which the first engaging surface (3246a) of the first arm stopper (3246) presses the third engaging surface (3284a) of the shaft bracket (328) in the direction of the second shaft (HS2) (e.g., -x-axis direction), and the fifth engaging surface (3256a) of the second arm stopper (3256) presses the seventh engaging surface (3285a) of the shaft bracket (328) in the direction of the first shaft (HS1) (e.g., x-axis direction).

[0158] According to various embodiments, each of the third engaging surface (3284a) and the seventh engaging surface (3285a) of the shaft bracket (328) is formed as a gradually inclined slope in such a way that the width (d5) between the two engaging surfaces (3284a, 3285a) increases as the shaft bracket (328) progresses in the fastening direction (e.g., -z-axis direction), and the first engaging surface (3246a) of the first arm stopper (3246) and the fifth engaging surface (3256a) of the second arm stopper (3256) are formed as corresponding inclined surfaces, thereby reducing the phenomenon of the assembled shaft bracket (328) being randomly detached in the opposite direction (z-axis direction) to the fastening direction (-z-axis direction), thereby helping to improve the assembling performance.

[0159] According to various embodiments, each of the fourth engaging surface (3284b) and the eighth engaging surface (3285b) of the shaft bracket (328) is formed as a gradually inclined slope in such a way that the width (d6) between the two engaging surfaces (3284b, 3285b) increases as the shaft bracket (328) progresses in the fastening direction (e.g., -z-axis direction), and the second engaging surface (3246b) of the first arm stopper (3246) and the sixth engaging surface (3256b) of the second arm stopper (3256) are formed as corresponding inclined surfaces, thereby reducing the phenomenon of the assembled shaft bracket (328) being randomly detached in the opposite direction (z-axis direction) to the fastening direction (-z-axis direction), thereby helping to improve the assembling performance.

[0160] FIGS. 16A to 16D are schematic diagrams illustrating an assembly process of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0161] In describing the hinge device (350) of FIGS. 16a to 16d, the same reference numerals are given to components that are substantially the same as those of the hinge device (320) of FIGS. 6 to 15b, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0162] Referring to FIGS. 16A to 16D , the hinge device (350) may include a shaft bracket (328) that is simultaneously fastened to a first shaft (HS1) and a second shaft (HS2) that are arranged to penetrate the arm assembly (AA). In one embodiment, the shaft bracket (328) may include a bracket body (3281), a first engaging portion (3282) extending to one side of the bracket body (3281), and a second engaging portion (3283) extending to the other side. In one embodiment, the first engaging portion (3282) and the second engaging portion (3283) may not include openings (e.g., the first opening (3282b) and the second opening (3283b) of FIG. 13B ), and may only include through-holes (e.g., the first through-hole (3282a) and the second through-hole (3283a) of FIG. 13B ). Accordingly, the shaft bracket (328) can be fastened in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2) (e.g., -y axis direction) in such a manner that the end of the first shaft (HS1) passes through the first coupling portion (3282) and the end of the second shaft (HS2) passes through the second coupling portion (3283).

[0163] FIG. 17A is a partial perspective view of a hinge device showing a shaft bracket pre-assembled to shafts according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 17B is a drawing illustrating the arrangement structure of the shaft bracket and arms along line 17B-17B of FIG. 17A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0164] Referring to FIGS. 17a and 17b, the shaft bracket (328) can be maintained in a pre-assembled state through a pressing force applied in a direction in which the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) are continuously intended to unfold after being penetrated by the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2). For example, by the first arm stopper (3246) and the second arm stopper (3256) pressing the left and right sides of the shaft bracket (328), the shaft bracket (328) can be continuously maintained in a pre-assembled state, thereby helping to improve assembly performance.

[0165] FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the hinge device taken along line 18B-18B of FIG. 18A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0166] In describing the hinge device (360) of FIG. 18, the same reference numerals are given to components that are substantially the same as those of the hinge device (320) of FIGS. 6 to 15b, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0167] Referring to FIGS. 18a and 18b, the shaft bracket (328) may include a bracket body (3281), a first coupling portion (3282) extending from the bracket body (3281) to one side, and a second coupling portion (3283) extending from the other side. In one embodiment, the first coupling portion (3282) may include a first through-hole (3282a) for receiving a first shaft (e.g., the first shaft (HS1) of FIG. 6). In one embodiment, the first coupling portion (3282) may include a first opening portion (3282b) extending from an outer surface to the first through-hole (3282a). In one embodiment, a first diameter (d1) of the first through-hole (3282a) may be set to be larger than a first width (d2) of the first opening portion (3282b). Accordingly, when the shaft bracket (328) is fastened in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (e.g., y-axis direction) of the first shaft (HS1) (e.g., -z-axis direction), the first shaft (HS1) can be fastened to the first through-hole (3282a) in a force-fit manner through the first opening (3282b) having a relatively narrow width. In this case, the shaft bracket (3282) can be formed of a polymer material such as polycarbonate (PC) for easy fastening to the first shaft (HS1). Although not shown, the fastening structure of the second shaft (HS2) and the second coupling portion (3283) may also be substantially the same.

[0168] FIGS. 19A to 19C are schematic diagrams illustrating an assembly process of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0169] In describing the hinge device (370) of FIGS. 19a to 19c, the same reference numerals are given to components that are substantially the same as those of the hinge device (320) of FIGS. 6 to 15b, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0170] Referring to FIGS. 19A to 19C, the hinge device (370) may include a rotator assembly (RA) and an arm assembly (AA) coupled to the rotator assembly (RA). In one embodiment, a first rotator (322) of the rotator assembly (RA) and a first arm (324) of the arm assembly (AA) may be coupled to operate in conjunction with each other via a first link (410). In one embodiment, a second rotator (323) of the rotator assembly (RA) and a second arm (325) of the arm assembly (AA) may be coupled to operate in conjunction with each other via a second link (420).

[0171] According to various embodiments, the rotator assembly (RA) may include a first bracket (e.g., the first bracket (321) of FIG. 6) to which the first rotator (322) and the second rotator (323) are rotatably coupled, and a second bracket (329-1) coupled with the first bracket (321) with at least a portion of the first and second rotators (322, 323) interposed therebetween. In one embodiment, the second bracket (329-1) may be applied only to the rotator assembly (RA), without an extension structure (e.g., the arm support (3292) of FIG. 6) extending to be coupled with at least a portion of the arm assembly (AA), as in the configuration described above.

[0172] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a hinge device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIGS. 21a to 21f are schematic diagrams illustrating an assembly process of the hinge device of FIG. 20 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0173] In describing the hinge device (370) of FIGS. 20 to 21f, the same reference numerals are given to components that are substantially the same as those of the hinge device (320) of FIGS. 6 to 15b, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0174] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 21F, the hinge device (380) may include a plurality of idle gears (430) gear-coupled with the first gear (3242b) of the first arm (324) and the second gear (3252b) of the second arm (325). Unlike the two locations described above, the idle gears (430) may be applied at four locations. In this case, since the gap between the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) is widened, the flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (240) of FIG. 5B) may be placed between housings having an operating structure requiring a relatively large bending width.

[0175] Although the hinge device (320) according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated and described with respect to the third hinge device (320) of at least one second hinge device (320, 320-1) connecting the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) of FIG. 5b, it is obvious that a hinge device having substantially the same structure can be applied to at least one first hinge device (310, 310-1) connecting the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0176] In addition, the hinge device (320) according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has been applied to a multi-foldable electronic device in which three housings (210, 220, 230) are configured to rotate relative to each other, but is not limited thereto. For example, it is obvious that the hinge device (320) can be applied to a foldable electronic device in which two housings are configured to rotate relative to each other.

[0177] According to various embodiments, a foldable electronic device may include a first housing (e.g., a first hinge (210) of FIG. 5A), a second housing (e.g., a third housing (230) of FIG. 5A), a flexible display (e.g., a flexible display (240) of FIG. 5A) supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (230), and at least one first hinge device (a hinge device (320) of FIG. 5A) that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (230) with respect to each other. The at least one first hinge device (320) may include a first shaft (e.g., a first shaft (HS1) of FIG. 6), a second shaft (e.g., a second shaft (HS2) of FIG. 6) substantially parallel to the first shaft (HS1), a first arm (e.g., a first arm (324) of FIG. 6) connected to the first shaft (HS1), a second arm (e.g., a second arm (325) of FIG. 6) connected to the second shaft (HS2), and a shaft bracket (e.g., a shaft bracket (328) of FIG. 6) connected to an end of the first shaft (HS1) and an end of the second shaft (HS2). The above shaft bracket (328) may include a bracket body (bracket body (3281) of FIG. 13b), a first coupling portion (e.g., the first coupling portion (3282) of FIG. 13b) extending to one side of the bracket body (3281) and including a first receiving portion (e.g., the first through-hole (3282a) and the first open portion (3282b) of FIG. 13b) for receiving the first shaft (HS1), and a second coupling portion (e.g., the second coupling portion (3283) of FIG. 13b) extending to the other side of the bracket body (3281) and including a second receiving portion (e.g., the second through-hole (3283a) and the second open portion (3283b) of FIG. 13b) for receiving the second shaft (HS2).

[0178] According to various embodiments, the first receiving portion (3282a, 3282b) may include a first through-hole (e.g., the first through-hole (3282a) of FIG. 13b) having one side of the first coupling portion (3282) open in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (HS1) to receive the first shaft (HS1), and the second receiving portion (3283a, 3283b) may include a second through-hole (e.g., the second through-hole (3283a) of FIG. 13b) having one side of the second coupling portion (3283) open in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second shaft (HS2) to receive the second shaft (HS2).

[0179] According to various embodiments, when the shaft bracket (328) is mounted on the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2), the first receiving portion (3282a, 3282b) may be set to firmly fix the first coupling portion (3282) to the first shaft (HS1), and the second receiving portion (3283a, 3283b) may be set to firmly fix the second coupling portion (3283) to the second shaft (HS2).

[0180] According to various embodiments, the shaft bracket (328) may be secured to the hinge housing (267) by a fastening member (e.g., fastening member (440) of FIG. 9) penetrating through the bracket (329) and a portion of the shaft bracket (328) and a bracket (329) for accommodating the at least one first hinge device (320).

[0181] According to various embodiments, the shaft bracket (3281) may include a first engaging structure (e.g., the first engaging structure (3284) of FIG. 13b) formed integrally with the first coupling portion (3282) and configured to engage with the first arm (324).

[0182] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) includes a first arm stopper (e.g., the first arm stopper (3246) of FIG. 13A) protruding toward the first coupling portion (3282), and the first arm stopper (3246) can be arranged to correspond to the first engaging structure (3284) of the shaft bracket (328).

[0183] According to various embodiments, the first arm stopper (3246) includes a first engaging surface (e.g., the first engaging surface (3246a) of FIG. 13a) and a second engaging surface (e.g., the second engaging surface (3246b) of FIG. 13a) spaced apart from the first engaging surface (3246a), and the first engaging structure (3284) includes a third engaging surface (e.g., the third engaging surface (3284a) of FIG. 13b) and a fourth engaging surface (e.g., the fourth engaging surface (3284b) of FIG. 13b) spaced apart from the third engaging surface (3284a), and in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200), the first engaging surface (3246a) faces the third engaging surface (3284a), and when the foldable electronic device (200) is folded, In this state, the second engaging surface (3246b) can face the fourth engaging surface (3284b).

[0184] According to various embodiments, the shaft bracket (3281) may include a second hooking structure (e.g., the second hooking structure (3285) of FIG. 13b) protruding from the second coupling portion (3283) toward the second arm (325).

[0185] According to various embodiments, the second arm (325) includes a second arm stopper (e.g., the second arm stopper (3256) of FIG. 13A) protruding toward the second coupling portion (3283), and the second arm stopper (3256) can be arranged to correspond to the second hooking structure (3285) of the shaft bracket (328).

[0186] According to various embodiments, the second arm stopper (3256) includes a fifth engaging surface (e.g., the fifth engaging surface (3256a) of FIG. 13a) and a sixth engaging surface (e.g., the sixth engaging surface (3256b) of FIG. 13a) spaced apart from the fifth engaging surface (3256a), and the second engaging structure (3285) includes a seventh engaging surface (e.g., the seventh engaging surface (3285a) of FIG. 13b) and an eighth engaging surface (e.g., the eighth engaging surface (3285b) of FIG. 13b) spaced apart from the seventh engaging surface (3285a), and in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200), the fifth engaging surface (3256a) faces the seventh engaging surface (3285a), and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200) In this state, the sixth engaging surface (3256b) can face the eighth engaging surface (3285b).

[0187] According to various embodiments, each of the third engaging surface (3284a) and the seventh engaging surface (3285a) may be formed as a gradually inclined slope in such a way that the width (d5) between the two engaging surfaces increases as the direction of fastening of the shaft bracket (328) progresses.

[0188] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) includes a first cam (e.g., the first cam (3242a) of FIG. 6), the second arm (325) includes a second cam (e.g., the second cam (3252a) of FIG. 6), and the at least one first hinge device (320) may include a first cam structure (e.g., the first cam structure (326) of FIG. 6) including a third cam (e.g., the third cam (3261) of FIG. 6) cam-coupled with the first cam (3242a) and a fourth cam (e.g., the fourth cam (3262) of FIG. 6) cam-coupled with the second cam (3252a).

[0189] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) and the second arm (325) are set to be pressed in a direction in which they are to be spread apart from each other through the cam coupling of the first cam (3242a) and the third cam (3261), the cam coupling of the second cam (3252a) and the fourth cam (3262), and the pressing member (e.g., the pressing member (CS) of FIG. 6) that presses the first cam structure (326), and the shaft bracket (328) can be set to be maintained in an assembled state through the pressing force with which the first engaging surface (3246a) presses the third engaging surface (3284a) and the pressing force with which the fifth engaging surface (3256a) presses the seventh engaging surface (3285a).

[0190] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) may include a fifth cam (e.g., a fifth cam (3243a) of FIG. 6) spaced apart from the first cam (3242a), the second arm (325) may include a sixth cam (e.g., a sixth cam (3253a) of FIG. 6) spaced apart from the second cam (3252a), and the at least one hinge device (320) may include a second cam structure (e.g., a second cam structure (327) of FIG. 6) including a seventh cam (e.g., a seventh cam (3271) of FIG. 6) cam-coupled with the fifth cam (3243a) and an eighth cam (e.g., an eighth cam (3272) of FIG. 6) cam-coupled with the sixth cam (3253a).

[0191] According to various embodiments, the first shaft (HS1) may include a first cutting portion (e.g., the first cutting portion (C1) of FIG. 7d) having an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter, and a first diameter (d1) of the first through-hole (3282a) may be set to be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the first cutting portion (C1), and the second shaft (HS2) may include a second cutting portion (e.g., the second cutting portion (C2) of FIG. 7d) having an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter, and a second diameter (d3) of the second through-hole (3283a) may be set to be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the second cutting portion (C2).

[0192] According to various embodiments, the bracket body (3281) may include a hinge housing (267) for receiving at least one first hinge device (320), and at least a portion of the bracket body (3281) may be fixed to the hinge housing (267).

[0193] According to various embodiments, a first bracket (e.g., the first bracket (321) of FIG. 6), a first rotator (e.g., the first part (3221) of FIG. 6) rotatably coupled with one end (e.g., the first part (3221) of FIG. 6) of the first bracket (321) about a third rotation axis (e.g., the third rotation axis (X3) of FIG. 6), a second rotator (e.g., the second rotator (323) of FIG. 6) rotatably coupled with one end (e.g., the third part (3231) of FIG. 6) of the first bracket (321) about a fourth rotation axis (e.g., the fourth rotation axis (X4) of FIG. 6), the other end of the first rotator (e.g., the second part (3222) of FIG. 6), and a fifth rotation axis (e.g., the fifth It may include a first link (e.g., the first link (410) of FIG. 6) that is rotatably coupled with respect to a rotation axis (X5)) and fixed to the first housing (210), and the other end of the second rotator (e.g., the fourth part (3232) of FIG. 6), and a second link (e.g., the second link (420) of FIG. 6) that is rotatably coupled with respect to a sixth rotation axis (e.g., the sixth rotation axis (X6) of FIG. 6)) and fixed to the second housing (230).

[0194] According to various embodiments, the first arm (324) may be slidably coupled to the first link (410), and the second arm (325) may be slidably coupled to the second link (420).

[0195] According to various embodiments, the first rotator (322) and the second rotator (323) are interposed therebetween, and a second bracket (329) coupled with the first bracket (321) is further included, and at least a portion of the second bracket (329) can be coupled with the shaft bracket (328).

[0196] According to various embodiments, the flexible display (240) may further include a third housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 5A) rotatably connected to the first housing (210) through at least one second hinge device (e.g., the hinge device (310) of FIG. 5A) at a position opposite to the at least one first hinge device (320), wherein the flexible display (240) is arranged to be supported by the first, second, and third housings (210, 230, 220), and the at least one second hinge device (310) may be set to have substantially the same configuration as the at least one first hinge device (320).

[0197] In addition, the embodiments of the present disclosure disclosed in this specification and drawings are merely specific examples to easily explain the technical contents according to the embodiments of the present disclosure and to help understand the embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be interpreted as including all changes or modified forms derived based on the technical ideas of the various embodiments of the present disclosure in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. In foldable electronic devices, First housing (210); Second housing (230); A flexible display (240) supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (230); and At least one first hinge device (320) that rotatably connects the first housing (210) and the second housing (230) with respect to each other, The above at least one first hinge device (320) is, First shaft (HS1); A second shaft (HS2) substantially parallel to the first shaft (HS1); A first arm (324) connected to the first shaft (HS1); A second arm (325) connected to the second shaft (HS2); and It includes a shaft bracket (328) coupled to the end of the first shaft (HS1) and the end of the second shaft (HS2), The above shaft bracket (328) is Bracket body (3281); A first coupling portion (3282) extending to one side of the bracket body (3281) and including a first receiving portion (3282a, 3282b) for receiving the first shaft (HS1); and A foldable electronic device including a second coupling portion (3283) extending to the other side of the bracket body (3281) and including a second receiving portion (3283a, 3283b) for receiving the second shaft (HS2).

2. In paragraph 1, The first receiving portion (3282a, 3282b) includes a first through hole (3282a) with one side of the first coupling portion (3282) open to receive the first shaft (HS1) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (HS1). An electronic device in which the second receiving portion (3283a, 3283b) includes a second through hole (3283a) with one side of the second connecting portion (3283) open to receive the second shaft (HS2) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second shaft (HS2).

3. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which, when the shaft bracket (328) is mounted on the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (HS1) and the second shaft (HS2), the first receiving portion (3282a, 3282b) is set to firmly fix the first coupling portion (3282) to the first shaft (HS1), and the second receiving portion (3283a, 3283b) is set to firmly fix the second coupling portion (3283) to the second shaft (HS2).

4. In paragraph 1, A hinge housing (267) for accommodating at least one first hinge device (320); and A bracket (329) comprising at least one first hinge device (320) at least partially covering the bracket, The above shaft bracket (328) is an electronic device fixed to the hinge housing (267) through a fastening member (440) penetrating through the bracket (329) and a part of the shaft bracket (328).

5. In paragraph 1, A foldable electronic device in which the shaft bracket (3281) is formed integrally with the first coupling portion (3282) and includes a first hooking structure (3284) set to be coupled with the first arm (324).

6. In paragraph 5, A foldable electronic device in which the first arm (324) includes a first arm stopper (3246) protruding toward the first coupling portion (3282), and the first arm stopper (3246) is arranged to correspond to the first hooking structure (3284) of the shaft bracket (328).

7. In paragraph 6, The first female stopper (3246) includes a first engaging surface (3246a) and a second engaging surface (3246b) spaced apart from the first engaging surface (3246a), The above first hooking structure (3284) includes a third hooking surface (3284a) and a fourth hooking surface (3284b) spaced apart from the third hooking surface (3284a), In the unfolded state of the above foldable electronic device (200), the first engaging surface (3246a) faces the third engaging surface (3284a), An electronic device in which, in the folded state of the above foldable electronic device (200), the second engaging surface (3246b) faces the fourth engaging surface (3284b).

8. In paragraph 7, A foldable electronic device in which the shaft bracket (3281) includes a second hooking structure (3285) protruding from the second coupling portion (3283) toward the second arm (325).

9. In paragraph 8, A foldable electronic device in which the second arm (325) includes a second arm stopper (3256) protruding toward the second connecting portion (3283), and the second arm stopper (3256) is arranged to correspond to the second hanging structure (3285) of the shaft bracket (328).

10. In paragraph 9, The second arm stopper (3256) includes a fifth engaging surface (3256a) and a sixth engaging surface (3256b) spaced apart from the fifth engaging surface (3256a). The second hooking structure (3285) includes a seventh hooking surface (3285a) and an eighth hooking surface (3285b) spaced apart from the seventh hooking surface (3285a). In the unfolded state of the above foldable electronic device (200), the fifth engaging surface (3256a) faces the seventh engaging surface (3285a), An electronic device in which, in the folded state of the above foldable electronic device (200), the sixth engaging surface (3256b) faces the eighth engaging surface (3285b).

11. In paragraph 10, A foldable electronic device in which each of the third engaging surface (3284a) and the seventh engaging surface (3285a) is formed as a gradually inclined slope in such a way that the width (d5) between the two engaging surfaces increases as it progresses in the fastening direction of the shaft bracket (328).

12. In paragraph 10, The first arm (324) includes a first cam (3242a), and the second arm (325) includes a second cam (3252a). A foldable electronic device comprising at least one first hinge device (320) including a first cam structure (326) including a third cam (3261) coupled with the first cam (3242a) and a fourth cam (3262) coupled with the second cam (3252a).

13. In paragraph 12, The first arm (324) and the second arm (325) are set to be pressed in the direction in which they are to be spread out from each other through the cam coupling of the first cam (3242a) and the third cam (3261), the cam coupling of the second cam (3252a) and the fourth cam (3262), and the pressing member (CS) that pressurizes the first cam structure (326). The above shaft bracket (328) is a foldable electronic device set to be maintained in an assembled state through a pressing force applied by the first engaging surface (3246a) to the third engaging surface (3284a) and a pressing force applied by the fifth engaging surface (3256a) to the seventh engaging surface (3285a).

14. In paragraph 12, The first arm (324) includes a fifth cam (3243a) spaced apart from the first cam (3242a), The second arm (325) includes a sixth cam (3253a) spaced apart from the second cam (3252a), A foldable electronic device comprising at least one hinge device (320) including a second cam structure (327) including a seventh cam (3271) coupled with the fifth cam (3243a) and an eighth cam (3272) coupled with the sixth cam (3253a).

15. In paragraph 2, The first shaft (HS1) includes a first cutting portion (C1) having an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter, and the first diameter (d1) of the first through hole (3282a) is set to be substantially equal to the outer diameter of the first cutting portion (C1). A foldable electronic device in which the second shaft (HS2) includes a second cutting portion (C2) having an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter, and the second diameter (d3) of the second through hole (3283a) is set to be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the second cutting portion (C2).

Images