Foldable electronic device

Abstract

An electronic device, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, may comprise: a housing comprising a first housing and a second housing; a hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; a battery disposed in the second housing; a first display disposed on a first surface of the first housing and a first surface of the second housing; a second display disposed on a second surface of the first housing; a third display disposed on a second surface of the second housing; a front plate supporting the second display and the third display; a first display driver integrated circuit (IC) driving the first display (330) and the second display; a first printed circuit board disposed in the first housing; a second printed circuit board disposed in the second housing; a first flexible printed circuit board electrically connecting the first printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board; at least one processor disposed on the first printed circuit board; a second display driver IC disposed on the second printed circuit board and driving the third display; and a second flexible printed circuit board (1130) electrically connected to the second display driver IC (470, 1120). The first flexible printed circuit board (1410) and the second flexible printed circuit board (1130) may be configured to be electrically connected. The second display driver IC may be disposed on any one of four inner side surfaces of the second housing.

Description

foldable electronic device

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a foldable electronic device comprising a display capable of maintaining a screen without power (e.g., a non-volatile display, an electronic ink (E-ink) display, an electrophoretic display).

[0002] An electronic device may refer to a device that performs designated functions according to an installed program, such as electronic products, electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, video / audio devices, desktop / laptop computers, or in-vehicle navigation systems. Electronic devices can provide various functions, such as calling and multimedia file playback. Electronic devices are being developed to become increasingly slimmer, increase rigidity, enhance design aspects, and differentiate their functional elements.

[0003] Conventional displays may consume power to maintain the screen. Displays capable of maintaining the screen without power can retain the final displayed image (e.g., the final screen) for a certain period of time, and practically no power may be consumed to maintain the screen. Electronic devices may include displays capable of maintaining the screen without power (e.g., non-volatile displays, electronic ink (E-ink) displays, electrophoretic displays). Displays capable of maintaining the screen without power can be applied to devices that maintain the same screen for a certain period of time, such as e-book devices. Displays capable of maintaining the screen without power can be applied as sub-displays placed externally to electronic devices.

[0004] The information described above may be provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0005] When a display capable of maintaining the screen without power (e.g., non-volatile displays, E-ink displays, electrophoretic displays) is applied, the final displayed image (e.g., final screen) can be maintained for a certain period of time without consuming power. If the battery of the electronic device is discharged, the final image (e.g., final screen) displayed on the display capable of maintaining the screen without power cannot be changed. When the image is updated on the display capable of maintaining the screen without power, power is no longer practically required to maintain the final image (e.g., final screen). Even if the battery of the electronic device is discharged, the state in which the final image (e.g., final screen) of the display capable of maintaining the screen without power is maintained can be preserved.

[0006] One embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a foldable electronic device that can efficiently arrange a DDI for driving the cover display (e.g., external display) of the foldable electronic device, and a display capable of maintaining a screen without power (e.g., non-volatile display, electronic ink (E-ink) display, electrophoretic display).

[0007] One embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a foldable electronic device that prevents the battery area from being reduced even if a cover display is positioned to be visible from the outside of the electronic device and a DDI of the cover display is positioned inside the electronic device.

[0008] The technical tasks intended to be accomplished in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this document belongs from the description below.

[0009] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a housing including a first housing and a second housing; a hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; a battery disposed in the second housing; a first display disposed on a first surface of the first housing and a first surface of the second housing; a second display disposed on a second surface of the first housing; a third display disposed on a second surface of the second housing; a front plate supporting the second display and the third display; a first display driver IC (integrated circuit) for driving the first display (330) and the second display; a first printed circuit board disposed in the first housing; a second printed circuit board disposed in the second housing; a first flexible circuit board electrically connecting the first printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board; at least one processor disposed on the first printed circuit board; a second display driver IC disposed on the second printed circuit board and driving the third display; and the second display It may include a second flexible circuit board (1130) electrically connected to a driver IC (470, 1120). The first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second flexible circuit board (1130) may be configured to be electrically connected. The second display driver IC may be placed on any one of the four sides inside the second housing.

[0010] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may arrange a cover display and a DDI of the cover display so as to overlap with a connection area where a hinge structure and a front plate are connected. By arranging the cover display and the DDI of the cover display in this way, the space of the rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device can be effectively utilized, and the area of ​​the cover display visible from the outside (e.g., viewing area, screen size) can be expanded. In addition, even when the cover display and the DDI of the cover display are applied to the foldable electronic device, the battery area can be prevented from being reduced.

[0011] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may have a second DDI for driving a first cover display and a third DDI for driving a second cover display arranged so as to overlap with a connection area where a hinge structure and a front plate are connected. By arranging the second DDI and the third DDI in this manner, the space of the rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device can be effectively utilized, and the area of ​​the first cover display and the second cover display visible from the outside (e.g., viewing area, screen size) can be expanded. Furthermore, even when the first cover display, the second cover display, the second DDI, and the third DDI are applied to the foldable electronic device, the battery area can be prevented from being reduced.

[0012] In addition, various effects that can be identified directly or indirectly through this document may be provided.

[0013] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0014] In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIGS. 2a and 2b are drawings of a first state (e.g., unfolded state, unfolded stage) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the front and rear.

[0017] FIGS. 2c and 2d are drawings of a second state (e.g., folded state) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the front and rear.

[0018] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a first state (e.g., unfolded state, flat state or unfolding state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 3b is a plan view showing the front of an electronic device in a first state (e.g., unfolded state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 3c is a plan view illustrating the rear surface of an electronic device in a first state (e.g., unfolded state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 3d is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a second state (e.g., a folding state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 3e is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a third state (e.g., an intermediate state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a first display module and a second display module of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the package form of a display (e.g., a display panel) and a display driver IC.

[0025] Figure 6a is a diagram showing the configuration when a display (e.g., a display panel) and a display driver IC are placed in the same direction in a COP structure.

[0026] Figure 6b is a diagram showing the configuration when the display (e.g., display panel) and the display driver IC are placed in opposite directions in a COP structure.

[0027] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a second display (e.g., a first sub-display, a first external display) and a third display (e.g., a cover display, a second sub-display, a second external display) arranged on the rear surface of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a hinge structure placed in a hinge area and a front plate connected to the hinge structure.

[0029] Figure 9 is a plan view showing the hinge area.

[0030] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge region along the line AA' shown in FIG. 9.

[0031] FIGS. 11a and FIGS. 11b are drawings showing that a second display driver IC for driving a third display is placed in a peripheral area of ​​the hinge area (e.g., an area where the hinge structure and the front plate are connected).

[0032] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing an area where a second display driver IC for driving a third display in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be placed.

[0033] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a structure in which a first flexible circuit board (first FPCB) and a second flexible circuit board (second FPCB) are electrically connected in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a first flexible circuit board (first FPCB) arranged in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a second flexible circuit board (second FPCB) disposed in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing that a pressure cap is positioned so that the connector of the first flexible circuit board (first FPCB) and the connector of the second flexible circuit board (second FPCB) are not separated.

[0037] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a waterproof structure disposed in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view along the line AA' of FIG. 17.

[0039] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing that the second display and the third display are applied as non-volatile displays capable of displaying a screen for a certain period of time without power.

[0040] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing that a second display driver IC for driving a third display is disposed in a peripheral area of ​​a hinge area of ​​a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., an area where the hinge structure and the front plate are connected).

[0041] FIGS. 21a to 21c are drawings illustrating a multi-foldable electronic device (e.g., a multi-foldable electronic device) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] It should be noted that throughout the drawings, the same reference number is used to describe the same or similar elements, features, and structures.

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice them. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In relation to 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 brevity.

[0044] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their literary meanings and are merely used by the applicant to enable a clear and consistent understanding of this document. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of this document is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit this document as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0045] The singular form should be understood to include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to "component surfaces" may include a reference to one or more of such surfaces.

[0046] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0048] The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., a program (140)), and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in 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) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and an 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 designated function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as part thereof.

[0049] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., display module (160), sensor module (176), or communication module (190)) 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. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (180) or communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence is performed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may 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 may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers.An artificial neural network may be 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 the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0050] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (140)) and related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0051] The program (140) may be stored as software in memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0052] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) from outside the electronic device (101) (e.g., user). The input module (150) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0053] The sound output module (155) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The sound output module (155) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0054] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., 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 said 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 the force generated by said touch.

[0055] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150) or output sound through the sound output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (101).

[0056] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0057] The interface (177) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (101) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to 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.

[0058] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) can 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).

[0059] The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that can be perceived by the user through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0060] The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0061] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0062] The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0063] The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an 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 include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and 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., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., 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 may 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 identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0064] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (192) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), 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), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for URLLC realization.

[0065] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to 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 a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0066] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0067] At least some of the above components can be connected to each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)) and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other.

[0068] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between an electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through 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 performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or 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 provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a 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.

[0069] An electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in this document may be of various forms. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a consumer electronics device. The electronic device according to the embodiment of this document is not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0070] The embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of such embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B or C," "at least one of A, B and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C" may each include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another corresponding component and do not limit the components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any (e.g., first) component is referred to as “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicationly,” it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., by wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0071] As used in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the term “module” may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A module may be a component formed integrally, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0072] One embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented as software (e.g., program (140)) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory (136) or external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., electronic device (101)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment disclosed herein may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM It can be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0074] According to one embodiment, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to one embodiment, one or more of the components or operations among the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to one embodiment, operations performed by the module, program, or other components may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an electronic device configured to be foldable or unfoldable (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2a to 2d, the electronic device (300) of FIGS. 3a to 3e).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a flexible display configured to be foldable or unfoldable.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include an electronic device (e.g., a slideable electronic device) that can be arranged to slide in a first direction (e.g., in the x-axis direction) or slide in a second direction (e.g., in the y-axis direction) so that the size of the screen can be changed.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a flexible display that is positioned to be slidable in a first direction (e.g., in the x-axis direction) or slidable in a second direction (e.g., in the y-axis direction) to provide a screen (e.g., a display screen).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may be referred to as a variable display (e.g., a stretchable display), an expandable display, or a slide-in / out display.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a bar-type or flat-panel electronic device.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a bar-type or plate-type display.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a display capable of maintaining a screen without power (e.g., a non-volatile display, an electronic ink (E-ink) display, an electrophoretic display).

[0083] FIGS. 2a and 2b are drawings of a first state (e.g., unfolded stage) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the front and rear. FIGS. 2c and 2d are drawings of a second state (e.g., folded state) of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the front and rear.

[0084] The electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2a to 2d may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device (101).

[0085] The electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2a to 2d may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (700) of FIGS. 7 and FIG. 13, or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device (700).

[0086] The electronic device (200) of FIGS. 2a to 2d may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (2000) of FIG. 20, or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device (2000).

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 2a through 2d, an electronic device (200) (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a pair of housings (210, 220) (e.g., foldable housing structure) that are rotatably coupled about a folding axis (F) through at least one hinge device (e.g., hinge module or hinge structure) so as to be foldable relative to each other, a first display (230) (e.g., flexible display, foldable display or main display) disposed through the pair of housings (210, 220), and / or a second display (235) (e.g., sub-display) disposed through the second housing (220).

[0088] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of at least one hinge device is positioned so as not to be seen from the outside through a first housing (210) and a second housing (220), and in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), it may be positioned so as not to be seen from the outside through a hinge housing (290) (e.g., hinge cover) that covers a foldable portion. In this document, the surface on which the first display (230) is positioned may be defined as the front of the electronic device (200). In this document, the opposite side of the front may be defined as the rear of the electronic device (200). Additionally, the surface surrounding the space between the front and the rear may be defined as the side of the electronic device (200).

[0089] According to one embodiment, a pair of housings (210, 220) may include a first housing (210) and a second housing (220) that are foldably arranged relative to each other through at least one hinge device.

[0090] According to one embodiment, a pair of housings (210, 220) are not limited to the shapes and combinations shown in FIGS. 2a to 2d and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations and / or combinations of parts.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are positioned on both sides with respect to the folding axis (F), have a shape that is symmetrical overall with respect to the folding axis (F), and can be folded to match each other.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be folded asymmetrically with respect to the folding axis (F).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may differ depending on whether the electronic device (200) is in a first state (e.g., unfolded stage), a second state (e.g., folded state), or a third state (e.g., intermediate state). For example, the electronic device (200) can sense whether it is in a first state (e.g., unfolded stage), a second state (e.g., folded state), or a third state (e.g., intermediate state) using a sensor module (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1). The electronic device (200) can sense the angle between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) using a sensor module (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be connected to at least one hinge device in a first state (e.g., unfolded state) of the electronic device (200). The first housing (210) may include a first surface (211) positioned to face the front of the electronic device (200), a second surface (212) facing in the opposite direction of the first surface (211), and / or a first side member (213) surrounding at least a portion of a first space (2101) between the first surface (211) and the second surface (212).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be connected to at least one hinge device in a first state (e.g., unfolded state) of the electronic device (200). The second housing (220) may include a third surface (221) positioned to face the front of the electronic device (200), a fourth surface (222) facing in the opposite direction of the third surface (221), and / or a second side member (223) surrounding at least a portion of a second space (2201) between the third surface (221) and the fourth surface (222).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the first surface (211) may face substantially the same direction as the third surface (221) in a first state (e.g., unfolded state) and may at least partially face the third surface (221) in a second state (e.g., folded state).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a recess (201) formed to accommodate a first display (230) through the structural combination of a first housing (210) and a second housing (220).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the recess (201) may have substantially the same size as the first display (230).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be combined with a first side member (213) when the first display (230) is viewed from above. The first housing (210) may include a first protective frame (213a) (e.g., a first decorative member) that covers the edge of the first display (230) so that it is not visible from the outside by being positioned overlapping the edge of the first display (230).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the first protective frame (213a) may be formed integrally with the first side member (213).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be combined with a second side member (223) when the first display (230) is viewed from above. The second housing (220) may include a second protective frame (223a) that covers the edge of the first display (230) so that it is not visible from the outside by being positioned overlapping the edge of the first display (230).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the second protective frame (223a) may be formed integrally with the second side member (223). In one embodiment, the first protective frame (213a) and the second protective frame (223a) may be omitted.

[0103] According to one embodiment, a hinge housing (290) (e.g., a hinge cover) may be positioned between a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). The hinge housing (290) may be positioned to cover a part of at least one hinge device (e.g., at least one hinge module).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the hinge housing (290) may be covered by a part of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) or exposed to the outside depending on the first state (e.g., unfolded state), the second state (e.g., folded state), or the third state (e.g., intermediate state) of the electronic device (200). For example, when the electronic device (200) is in the first state (e.g., unfolded state), at least a part of the hinge housing (290) may be covered by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) and positioned so that it is substantially not visible from the outside.

[0105] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a second state (folded state), at least a portion of the hinge housing (290) may be positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) so as to be visible from the outside.

[0106] According to one embodiment, when the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a third state (intermediate state) that is folded with a certain angle, the hinge housing (290) may be positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) so that it is at least partially visible from the outside to the outside of the electronic device (200). For example, the area of ​​the hinge housing (290) exposed to the outside may be smaller than in a fully folded state. According to one embodiment, the hinge housing (290) may include a curved surface.

[0107] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are at an angle of about 180 degrees, and the first area (230a), the second area (230b), and the folding area (230c) of the first display (230) may be substantially in the same plane. The first area (230a), the second area (230b), and the folding area (230c) of the first display (230) may be arranged to face substantially the same direction (e.g., z-axis direction). In one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), the first housing (210) may be rotated at an angle of about 360 degrees relative to the second housing (220) and folded in the opposite direction so that the second surface (212) and the fourth surface (222) face each other (e.g., out-folding method).

[0108] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a second state (folded state), the first surface (211) of the first housing (210) and the third surface (221) of the second housing (220) may be positioned to face each other. In this case, the first region (230a) and the second region (230b) of the first display (230) may be positioned to face each other through the folding region (230c), forming a narrow angle (e.g., a range of 0 degrees to about 10 degrees) from each other. According to one embodiment, the folding region (230c) may be deformed into a curved shape having at least a portion of a predetermined curvature.

[0109] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a third state (e.g., an intermediate state), the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be positioned at a certain angle relative to each other. In this case, the first region (230a) and the second region (230b) of the first display (230) may form an angle that is larger than the second state (e.g., a folded state) and smaller than the first state (e.g., an unfolded state), and the curvature of the folding region (230c) may be smaller than in the second state (e.g., a folded state) and larger than in the first state (e.g., an unfolded state). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may form an angle that can stop at a specified folding angle between the second state (e.g., a folded state) and the third state (e.g., an intermediate state) through at least one hinge device (e.g., a free stop function). In one embodiment, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be continuously operated while being pressed in an unfolding direction or a folding direction based on a specified inflection angle through at least one hinge device.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one display (230, 235), an input device (215), sound output devices (227, 228), sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226), camera modules (216a, 216b, 225), a key input device (219), an indicator (not shown), or a connector port (229) disposed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may omit at least one of the components or additionally include at least one other component.

[0111] According to one embodiment, at least one display (230, 235) may include a first display (230) (e.g., a flexible display) positioned to be supported by a third surface (221) of a second housing (220) through at least one hinge device from a first surface (211) of a first housing (210), and a second display (235) positioned to be visible from the outside at least partially through a fourth surface (222) in the internal space of the second housing (220).

[0112] In one embodiment, the second display (235) may be positioned so as to be visible from the outside through the second surface (212) in the internal space of the first housing (210).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may be primarily used in a first state (e.g., unfolded state) of the electronic device (200). The second display (235) may also be used in the first state (e.g., unfolded state) of the electronic device (200).

[0114] According to one embodiment, the second display (235) may be primarily used in a second state (e.g., a folded state) of the electronic device (200). The first display (230) may also be used in the second state (e.g., a folded state) of the electronic device (200).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can control the first display (230) and / or the second display (235) to be available based on the folding angle of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) in the case of a third state (e.g., an intermediate state).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may be placed in a receiving space formed by a pair of housings (210, 220). For example, the first display (230) may be placed in a recess (201) formed by a pair of housings (210, 220) and may be placed to occupy substantially most of the front surface of the electronic device (200) in a first state (e.g., unfolded state). According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a flexible display in which at least some area can be deformed into a flat or curved surface.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a first area (230a) facing the first housing (210) and a second area (230b) facing the second housing (220). According to one embodiment, the first display (230) may include a folding area (230c) comprising a portion of the first area (230a) and a portion of the second area (230b) with respect to the folding axis (F).

[0118] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the folding area (230c) may include an area corresponding to at least one hinge device.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the area division of the first display (230) is merely an exemplary physical division by a pair of housings (210, 220) and at least one hinge device, and substantially the first display (230) can be displayed as a single, seamless, full screen through the pair of housings (210, 220) and at least one hinge device.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the first region (230a) and the second region (230b) may have a shape that is symmetrical overall with respect to the folding region (230c) or a shape that is partially asymmetrical.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first rear cover (240) disposed on a second side (212) of a first housing (210) and a second rear cover (250) disposed on a fourth side (222) of a second housing (220). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first rear cover (240) may be formed integrally with the first side member (213). In one embodiment, at least a portion of the second rear cover (250) may be formed integrally with the second side member (223).

[0122] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first rear cover (240) and the second rear cover (250) 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. According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (240) 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 materials.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the second rear cover (250) may be formed through a substantially transparent plate, such as glass or a polymer, for example. Thus, the second display (235) may be positioned so as to be visible from the outside through the second rear cover (250) within the internal space of the second housing (220).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the input device (215) may include a microphone. In one embodiment, the input device (215) may include a plurality of microphones arranged to detect the direction of sound.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the acoustic output devices (227, 228) may include speakers. According to one embodiment, the acoustic output devices (227, 228) may include a call receiver (227) disposed through a fourth side (222) of the second housing (220) and an external speaker (228) disposed through at least a portion of a second side member (223) of the second housing (220).

[0126] In one embodiment, the input device (215), the acoustic output devices (227, 228), and the connector port (229) may be disposed in the spaces of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). The input device (215), the acoustic output devices (227, 228), and the connector port (229) may be exposed to the external environment through at least one hole formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the holes formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) may be used in common for the input device (215) and the acoustic output devices (227, 228). In one embodiment, the acoustic output devices (227, 228) may include a speaker (e.g., a piezo speaker) that is operated with the holes formed in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) excluded.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the camera modules (216a, 216b, 225) may include a first camera module (216a) disposed on a first surface (211) of a first housing (210), a second camera module (216b) disposed on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210), and / or a third camera module (225) disposed on a fourth surface (222) of the second housing (220).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a flash (218) positioned near the second camera module (216b). According to one embodiment, the flash (218) may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp.

[0129] According to one embodiment, camera modules (216a, 216b, 225) may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and / or an image signal processor. In one embodiment, at least one camera module among the camera modules (216a, 216b, 225) may include two or more lenses (e.g., wide-angle and telephoto lenses) and image sensors, and may be disposed together on either side of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0130] According to one embodiment, sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226) (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (200) or an external environmental state.

[0131] According to one embodiment, sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226) (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) may include a first sensor module (217a) disposed on a first surface (211) of a first housing (210), a second sensor module (217b) disposed on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210), and / or a third sensor module (226) disposed on a fourth surface (222) of the second housing (220).

[0132] In one embodiment, sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226) (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, an ambient light sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a proximity sensor, a biometric sensor (e.g., an iris recognition sensor), a distance detection sensor (e.g., a TOF (time of flight) sensor, a LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor), a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor (e.g., a 6-axis sensor, a geomagnetic sensor), an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and / or a fingerprint recognition sensor.

[0133] According to one embodiment, a processor of an electronic device (200) (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1) may operate sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226) (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) to sense the ambient light and / or IR intensity around the electronic device (200). The processor (120) may obtain information about the ambient light and information about the IR intensity around the electronic device (200).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of an unillustrated gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, an illuminance sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a proximity sensor, a biometric sensor (e.g., an iris recognition sensor), a distance detection sensor (e.g., a TOF (time of flight) sensor, a LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor), a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor (e.g., a 6-axis sensor, a geomagnetic sensor), an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and / or a fingerprint recognition sensor.

[0135] In one embodiment, the fingerprint recognition sensor may be positioned through at least one of the first side member (213) of the first housing (210) and / or the second side member (223) of the second housing (220).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the key input device (219) may be positioned to be exposed to the outside through the first side member (213) of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, the key input device (219) may be positioned to be exposed to the outside through the second side member (223) of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may not include some or all of the key input devices (219), and the key input device (219) not included may be implemented in other forms, such as soft keys, on at least one display (230, 235). As one embodiment, the key input device (219) may be implemented using a pressure sensor included in at least one display (230, 235).

[0137] According to one embodiment, the connector port (229) may include a connector (e.g., a USB connector or an IF module (interface connector port module)) for transmitting and receiving power and / or data with an external electronic device. In one embodiment, the connector port (229) may also perform the function of transmitting and receiving audio signals with an external electronic device, or may further include a separate connector port (e.g., an earphone jack hole) for performing the function of transmitting and receiving audio signals.

[0138] According to one embodiment, at least one camera module (216a, 225) among the camera modules (216a, 216b, 225), at least one sensor module (217a, 226) among the sensor modules (217a, 217b, 226), and / or an indicator may be positioned to be visually exposed through at least one display (230, 235). For example, at least one camera module (216a, 225), at least one sensor module (217a, 226), and / or an indicator may be positioned in the internal space of at least one housing (210, 220), below the display area of ​​at least one display (230, 235). At least one camera module (216a, 225), at least one sensor module (217a, 226) and / or an indicator may be positioned to come into contact with the external environment through an opening or transparent area perforated up to a cover member (e.g., a window layer (not shown) of the first display (230) and / or a second rear cover (250)).

[0139] According to one embodiment, the area where at least one display (230, 235) and at least one camera module (216a, 225) face each other may be formed as a transparent area having a certain transmittance as part of the area for displaying content.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the transparent area may be formed to have a transmittance in the range of about 5% to about 20%. This transparent area may include an area that overlaps with the effective area (e.g., field of view area) of at least one camera module (216a, 225) through which light passes to form an image with an image sensor to generate an image. For example, the transparent area of ​​the display (230, 235) may include an area with a lower pixel density than the surrounding area. For example, the transparent area may replace an opening. For example, at least one camera module (216a, 225) may include an under-display camera (UDC) or an under-panel camera (UPC). As one embodiment, some camera modules or sensor modules (217a, 226) may be positioned to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the display. For example, the area facing the camera module (216a, 225) and / or sensor module (217a, 226) placed below the display (230, 235) (e.g., display panel) may be an under-display camera (UDC) structure, and a perforated opening may not be necessary.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the second display (235) (e.g., sub-display) may include a display capable of maintaining a screen without power (e.g., non-volatile display, electronic ink (E-ink) display, electrophoretic display).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (240) is excluded, and a third display (e.g., the third display (2010), sub-display of FIG. 20) may be disposed in the portion where the first rear cover (240) is disposed. For example, the third display (e.g., the third display (2010), sub-display) may include a display capable of maintaining a screen without power (e.g., a non-volatile display, an electronic ink (E-ink) display, an electrophoretic display).

[0143] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a first state (e.g., flat state or unfolding state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3b is a plan view illustrating the front of the electronic device in the first state (e.g., unfolding state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3c is a plan view illustrating the rear of the electronic device in the first state (e.g., unfolding state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3d is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a second state (e.g., folding state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3e is a perspective view of an electronic device illustrating a third state (e.g., intermediate state) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0144] The electronic device (300) of FIGS. 3a to 3e may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device (101).

[0145] The electronic device (300) of FIGS. 3a to 3e may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (700) of FIGS. 7 and FIG. 13, or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device (700).

[0146] The electronic device (300) of FIGS. 3a to 3e may be at least partially similar to the electronic device (2000) of FIG. 20, or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device (2000).

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 3a through 3e, an electronic device (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a pair of housings (310, 320) (e.g., foldable housings) that are rotatably coupled to face each other and fold with respect to a hinge structure (340) (e.g., hinge device or hinge module).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (340) may be positioned in the x-axis direction or in the y-axis direction. According to one embodiment, two or more hinge structures (340) may be positioned to fold in the same direction or in different directions.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include a flexible display (330) (e.g., a first display, a foldable display, a main display) disposed in an area formed by a pair of housings (310, 320).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) are positioned on both sides of a folding axis (axis A) and may have a shape that is substantially symmetric with respect to the folding axis (axis A).

[0151] According to one embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may differ depending on whether the state of the electronic device (300) is a first state (e.g., flat state or unfolding state), a second state (e.g., folding state), or a third state (e.g., intermediate state).

[0152] According to one embodiment, a pair of housings (310, 320) may include a first housing (310) (e.g., first housing structure, first housing part) coupled to a hinge structure (340) and a second housing (320) (e.g., second housing structure, second housing part) coupled to a hinge structure (340).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the first housing (310) may include, in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), a first surface (311) facing a first direction (e.g., front direction) (z-axis direction) and a second surface (312) facing a second direction (e.g., rear direction) (-z-axis direction) opposite to the first surface (311).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the second housing (320) may include a third surface (321) facing a first direction (z-axis direction) and a fourth surface (322) facing a second direction (-z-axis direction) in a first state (e.g., unfolded state).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) can be operated such that, in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), the first surface (311) of the first housing (310) and the third surface (321) of the second housing (320) face substantially the same first direction (z-axis direction), and in a second state (e.g., folded state), the first surface (311) and the third surface (321) face each other.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) can be operated such that, in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), the second surface (312) of the first housing (310) and the fourth surface (322) of the second housing (320) face substantially the same second direction (-z axis direction), and in a second state (e.g., folded state), the second surface (312) and the fourth surface (322) face opposite directions. For example, in a second state (e.g., folded state), the second surface (312) may face the first direction (z axis direction) and the fourth surface (322) may face the second direction (-z axis direction).

[0157] According to one embodiment, the first housing (310) may include a first side member (313) that forms at least partially the exterior of the electronic device (300) and a first rear cover (314) that is coupled to the first side member (313) and forms at least a part of the second side (312) of the electronic device (300).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the first side member (313) may include a first side (313a), a second side (313b) extending from one end of the first side (313a), and a third side (313c) extending from the other end of the first side (313a). According to one embodiment, the first side member (313) may be formed into a rectangular shape (e.g., a square or a rectangle) through the first side (313a), the second side (313b), and the third side (313c).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the second housing (320) may include a second side member (323) that forms at least partially the exterior of the electronic device (300) and a cover display (324) (e.g., a third display, a second external display, a second sub-display) that is coupled to the second side member (323) and forms at least a portion of the fourth side (322) of the electronic device (300). A second rear cover may be disposed around the cover display (324). According to one embodiment, the second side member (323) may include a fourth side (323a), a fifth side (323b) extending from one end of the fourth side (323a), and a sixth side (323c) extending from the other end of the fourth side (323a). According to one embodiment, the second side member (323) may be formed in a rectangular shape through the fourth side (323a), the fifth side (323b), and the sixth side (323c).

[0160] According to one embodiment, a pair of housings (310, 320) are not limited to the illustrated form and combination and may be implemented by other shapes or combinations of parts and / or combinations. For example, the first side member (313) may be formed integrally with the first rear cover (314), and the second side member (323) may be formed integrally with the second rear cover.

[0161] According to one embodiment, in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), the electronic device (300) may have the second side (313b) of the first side member (313) and the fifth side (323b) of the second side member (323) connected without any gap. According to one embodiment, in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), the electronic device (300) may have the third side (313c) of the first side member (313) and the sixth side (323c) of the second side member (323) connected without any gap.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may be configured such that, in a first state (e.g., unfolded state), the combined length of the second side (313b) and the fifth side (323b) is longer than the length of the first side (313a) and / or the fourth side (323a). Additionally, the combined length of the third side (313c) and the sixth side (323c) may be configured such that it is longer than the length of the first side (313a) and / or the fourth side (323a).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the first side member (313) and / or the second side member (323) may be formed of metal or may further comprise a polymer injected into the metal. According to one embodiment, the first side member (313) and / or the second side member (323) may comprise at least one conductive portion (316 and / or 326) electrically segmented through at least one segmented portion (3161, 3162, and / or 3261, 3262) formed of a polymer. In this case, the at least one conductive portion may be used as an antenna operating in at least one designated band (e.g., about 400 MHz to about 6 GHz) by being electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit included in the electronic device (300).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the first rear cover (314) and / or the second rear cover may be formed by at least one or a combination of at least two of coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may be positioned to extend from a first surface (311) of a first housing (310) across a hinge structure (340) to at least a portion of a third surface (321) of a second housing (320). For example, the flexible display (330) may include a first portion (330a) substantially corresponding to the first surface (311), a second portion (330b) corresponding to the third surface (321), and a third portion (330c) (e.g., a bendable area) connecting the first portion (330a) and the second portion (330b) and corresponding to the hinge structure (340).

[0166] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include a first protective cover (315) (e.g., a first protective frame or a first decorative member) coupled along the edge of the first housing (310). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include a second protective cover (325) (e.g., a second protective frame or a second decorative member) coupled along the edge of the second housing (320).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the first protective cover (315) and / or the second protective cover (325) may be formed of a metal or polymer material. According to one embodiment, the first protective cover (315) and / or the second protective cover (325) may be used as a decoration member.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may be positioned such that the edge of the first portion (330a) is interposed between the first housing (310) and the first protective cover (315). According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may be positioned such that the edge of the second portion (330b) is interposed between the second housing (320) and the second protective cover (325).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may include a protective cap (335) placed in an area corresponding to the hinge structure (340).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include a hinge housing (341) (e.g., a hinge cover) that supports a hinge structure (340).

[0171] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (330) may be extended from at least a portion of the second surface (312) to at least a portion of the fourth surface (322). In this case, the electronic device (300) may be folded so that the flexible display (330) can be visually exposed to the outside (out-folding method).

[0172] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include a sub-display (331) (e.g., a second display, a first external display, a first sub-display) that is disposed separately from the flexible display (330). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (331) is disposed so as to be at least partially exposed to the second surface (312) of the first housing (310), so that when in a second state (e.g., a folded state), it can replace the display function of the flexible display (330) and display state information of the electronic device (300) (e.g., first state information, second state information, or third state information).

[0173] According to one embodiment, a cover display (324) (e.g., a third display, a second external display, a second sub-display) may be disposed on a fourth side (322) of the second housing (320). The cover display (324) may be disposed so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the sub-display (331) may be positioned so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover (314). According to one embodiment, the sub-display (331) may be positioned on the fourth side (322) of the second housing (320). In this case, the sub-display (331) may be positioned so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may include at least one of an input device (303) (e.g., a microphone), an acoustic output device (301, 302), a sensor module (304), a camera device (305, 308), a key input device (306), or a connector port (307). It may also include a substantial electronic component (e.g., an input device, an acoustic output device, a sensor module, or a camera device) disposed inside the electronic device (300) and operating through a hole or shape.

[0176] According to one embodiment, the input device (303) may include at least one microphone (303) disposed in the second housing (320).

[0177] According to one embodiment, the acoustic output device (301, 302) may include speakers (301, 302).

[0178] According to one embodiment, at least one connector port (307) may be used to transmit and receive power and / or data with an external electronic device. According to one embodiment, at least one connector port (e.g., ear jack hole) may accommodate a connector (e.g., ear jack) for transmitting and receiving audio signals with an external electronic device.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the sensor module (304) can generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to an internal operating state of the electronic device (300) or an external environmental state. The sensor module (304) can detect the external environment, for example, through a first surface (311) of the first housing (310). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may further include at least one sensor module positioned to detect the external environment through a second surface (312) of the first housing (310).

[0180] According to one embodiment, a sensor module (304) (e.g., an illuminance sensor) may be positioned below the flexible display (330) to detect the external environment through the flexible display (330).

[0181] According to one embodiment, a sensor module (304) (e.g., sensor module (176) of FIG. 1) may include at least one of a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, an illuminance sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a proximity sensor, a biometric sensor (e.g., an iris recognition sensor), a distance detection sensor (e.g., a TOF (time of flight) sensor, a LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor), a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor (e.g., a 6-axis sensor, a geomagnetic sensor), an accelerometer, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and / or a fingerprint recognition sensor.

[0182] According to one embodiment, camera devices (305, 308) may include a first camera device (305) (e.g., a front camera device) disposed on a first surface (311) of a first housing (310) and a second camera device (308) disposed on a second surface (312) of the first housing (310). The electronic device (300) may further include a flash (309) disposed near the second camera device (308).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the camera devices (305, 308) may include lenses for time of flight (TOF) and / or an image sensor.

[0184] According to one embodiment, a key input device (306) (e.g., a key button) may be placed on a third side (313c) of a first side member (313) of a first housing (310). According to one embodiment, the key input device (306) may be placed on at least one of the other sides (313a, 313b) of the first housing (310) and / or the sides (323a, 323b, 323c) of the second housing (320).

[0185] According to one embodiment, some of the camera devices (305, 308), such as a first camera device (305) or a sensor module (304), may be positioned to be exposed through a flexible display (330). For example, the first camera device (305) or the sensor module (304) may be positioned in the internal space of the electronic device (300) to come into contact with the external environment through an opening (e.g., a through hole) formed at least partially in the flexible display (330).

[0186] According to one embodiment, some sensor modules (304) may be positioned to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the flexible display (330) within the internal space of the electronic device (300). For example, in this case, the opening of the area of ​​the flexible display (330) facing the sensor modules (304) may be omitted.

[0187] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may be operated to maintain a third state (e.g., an intermediate state) through a hinge structure (340). In this case, the electronic device (300) may control the flexible display (330) so that different content is displayed in a display area corresponding to the first surface (311) and a display area corresponding to the third surface (321).

[0188] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) can be operated through a hinge structure (340) to substantially a first state (e.g., unfolded state, unfolded state of FIG. 3a) and / or substantially a second state (e.g., folded state, folded state of FIG. 3d) based on a certain inflection angle (e.g., the angle between the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) when in an intermediate state). For example, the electronic device (300) can be operated through the hinge structure (340) to transition to a first state (e.g., unfolded state, unfolded state of FIG. 3a) when a pressure is applied in the unfolding direction (direction B) while in an unfolded state at a certain inflection angle. For example, the electronic device (300) can be operated to transition to a second state (e.g., a folded state, the folded state of FIG. 3d) when a pressing force is applied in the direction of folding (direction C) while it is unfolded at a certain inflection angle through the hinge structure (340). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (300) may be operated to maintain an unfolded state (not shown) at various angles through the hinge structure (340).

[0189] For example, the cover display (324) (e.g., third display, second external display, second sub-display) may be at least partially similar to the cover display (720) of FIG. 7 (e.g., third display, second external display) or may include other embodiments of the cover display (720).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the cover display (324) (e.g., third display, second external display) may include a display capable of maintaining a screen without power (e.g., non-volatile display, electronic ink (E-ink) display, electrophoretic display).

[0191] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a first display module and a second display module of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 4, a foldable electronic device (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a to 2d, electronic device (300) of FIG. 3a to 3e, foldable electronic device (700) of FIG. 7 and FIG. 13) may include a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1), power management module (e.g., power management module (188) of FIG. 1), battery (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1), and camera module (e.g., camera module (180) of FIG. 1).

[0193] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (400) may include a first display module (401) and a second display module (402).

[0194] According to one embodiment, the first display module (401) may include a first display (410) (e.g., main display), a second display (420) (e.g., first sub-display, first rear display), a first display driver IC (430) (hereinafter referred to as 'first DDI' or 'first DDIC'), a first touch circuit (440), and a second touch circuit (450).

[0195] For example, the first display (410) may include a flexible display that is visible to the outside when the foldable electronic device (400) is unfolded (e.g., the flexible display (330) of FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b).

[0196] According to one embodiment, the first DDI (430) (e.g., the first DDIC) can drive the first display (410) and the second display (420) based on the control of the processor (120).

[0197] For example, the first DDI (430) may include a first interface module (431) (e.g., a first interface circuit), a first memory (433) (e.g., a first buffer memory), a first image processing module (435) (e.g., a first image processing circuit), or a first mapping module (437) (e.g., a first mapping circuit).

[0198] According to one embodiment, the first DDI (430) can receive image information including image data or an image control signal corresponding to a command for controlling the image data from another component of the foldable electronic device (400) through the first interface module (431).

[0199] According to one embodiment, image information may be received from the main processor of the processor (120) (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1, the application processor) or from an auxiliary processor (e.g., the auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1, the graphics processing unit) that operates independently of the functions of the main processor (121).

[0200] According to one embodiment, the first DDI (430) can communicate with the first touch circuit (440) and / or the second touch circuit (450) using the first interface module (431).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the first DDI (430) can store at least a portion of the received image information in the first memory (433). For example, the first DDI (430) can store at least a portion of the received image information in the first memory (433) in frame units.

[0202] According to one embodiment, the first image processing module (435) can perform preprocessing or postprocessing (e.g., resolution, brightness, or size adjustment) of image data.

[0203] According to one embodiment, the first mapping module (437) can generate a voltage value or a current value corresponding to image data that has been preprocessed or postprocessed through the first image processing module (435).

[0204] For example, the generation of voltage values ​​or current values ​​may be performed based at least in part on the attributes of the pixels of the first display (410) (e.g., array of pixels (RGB stripe or pentile structure), or size of each subpixel). At least some pixels of the first display (410) may be driven, for example, based at least in part on the voltage values ​​or current values, so that visual information (e.g., text, image, or icon) corresponding to the image data may be displayed through the first display (410).

[0205] For example, the generation of voltage values ​​or current values ​​may be performed based at least in part on the attributes of the pixels of the second display (420) (e.g., array of pixels (RGB stripe or pentile structure), or size of each subpixel). At least some pixels of the second display (420) may be driven, for example, based at least in part on the voltage values ​​or current values, so that visual information (e.g., text, images, or icons) corresponding to the image data may be displayed through the second display (420).

[0206] According to one embodiment, the first touch circuit (440) may include a first touch sensor (441) and a first touch sensor IC (integrated circuit) (443) for controlling the first touch sensor (441).

[0207] According to one embodiment, the first touch sensor IC (443) can control the first touch sensor (441) to detect a touch input or hovering input for a specific location of the first display (410). For example, the first touch sensor IC (443) can detect a touch input or hovering input by measuring a change in a signal (e.g., voltage, light intensity, resistance, or charge) for a specific location of the first display (410). The first touch sensor IC (443) can provide information regarding the detected touch input or hovering input (e.g., location, area, pressure, or time) to a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1).

[0208] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first touch circuit (440) (e.g., the first touch sensor IC (443)) may be included as part of the first DDI (430) or the first display (410).

[0209] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first touch circuit (440) (e.g., the first touch sensor IC (443)) may be included as part of another component (e.g., the auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1) placed outside the first display module (401).

[0210] According to one embodiment, the first touch sensor (441) may be placed between pixels of a pixel layer of the first display (410), or above or below the pixel layer.

[0211] According to one embodiment, the second touch circuit (450) may include a second touch sensor (451) and a second touch sensor IC (453) for controlling the second touch sensor (451).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the second touch sensor IC (453) can control the second touch sensor (451) to detect a touch input or hovering input for a specific location on the second display (420). For example, the second touch sensor IC (453) can detect a touch input or hovering input by measuring a change in a signal (e.g., voltage, light intensity, resistance, or charge) for a specific location on the second display (420). The second touch sensor IC (453) can provide information regarding the detected touch input or hovering input (e.g., location, area, pressure, or time) to a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1).

[0213] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the second touch circuit (450) (e.g., the second touch sensor IC (453)) may be included as part of the first DDI (430) or the second display (420).

[0214] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the second touch circuit (450) (e.g., the second touch sensor IC (453)) may be included as part of another component (e.g., the auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1) placed outside the first display module (401).

[0215] According to one embodiment, the second touch sensor (451) may be placed between the pixels of the pixel layer of the second display (420), or above or below the pixel layer.

[0216] According to one embodiment, all or some of the components of the first DDI (430) may be embedded in the processor (120). For example, all or some of the operations of the first DDI (430) may be performed by the processor (120).

[0217] According to one embodiment, the second display module (402) may include a third display (460) (e.g., cover display, second sub-display, second external display), a second display driver IC (470) (hereinafter referred to as 'second DDI' or 'second DDIC'), and a third touch circuit (480).

[0218] For example, the third display (460) may include a display that can maintain a screen without power (e.g., a non-volatile display, an electronic ink (E-ink) display, an electrophoretic display).

[0219] According to one embodiment, the second DDI (470) (e.g., second DDIC) can drive the third display (460) based on the control of the processor (120).

[0220] For example, the second DDI (470) may include a second interface module (471) (e.g., a second interface circuit), a second memory (473) (e.g., a second buffer memory), a second image processing module (475) (e.g., a second image processing circuit), or a second mapping module (477) (e.g., a second mapping circuit).

[0221] According to one embodiment, the second DDI (470) can receive image information including image data or an image control signal corresponding to a command for controlling the image data from another component of the foldable electronic device (400) through the second interface module (471).

[0222] According to one embodiment, image information may be received from the main processor of the processor (120) (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1, the application processor) or from an auxiliary processor (e.g., the auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1, the graphics processing unit) that operates independently of the functions of the main processor (121).

[0223] According to one embodiment, the second DDI (470) can communicate with the third touch circuit (480) using the second interface module (471).

[0224] According to one embodiment, the second DDI (470) can store at least a portion of the received image information in the second memory (473). For example, the second DDI (470) can store at least a portion of the received image information in the second memory (473) in frame units.

[0225] According to one embodiment, the second image processing module (475) can perform preprocessing or postprocessing (e.g., resolution, brightness, or size adjustment) of image data.

[0226] According to one embodiment, the second mapping module (477) can generate a voltage value or a current value corresponding to image data that has been preprocessed or postprocessed through the second image processing module (475).

[0227] For example, the generation of a voltage value or a current value may be performed based at least in part on the attributes of the pixels of the third display (460) (e.g., array or size of the pixels). At least some pixels of the third display (460) are driven, for example, based at least in part on the voltage value or current value, so that visual information (e.g., text, image, or icon) corresponding to the image data may be displayed through the third display (460).

[0228] According to one embodiment, the third touch circuit (480) may include a third touch sensor (481) and a third touch sensor IC (integrated circuit) (483) for controlling the third touch sensor (481).

[0229] According to one embodiment, the third touch sensor IC (483) can control the third touch sensor (481) to detect a touch input or hovering input for a specific location of the third display (460). For example, the third touch sensor IC (483) can detect a touch input or hovering input by measuring a change in a signal (e.g., voltage, light intensity, resistance, or charge) for a specific location of the third display (460). The third touch sensor IC (483) can provide information regarding the detected touch input or hovering input (e.g., location, area, pressure, or time) to a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1).

[0230] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the third touch circuit (480) (e.g., the third touch sensor IC (483)) may be included as part of the second DDI (470) or the third display (460).

[0231] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the third touch circuit (480) (e.g., the third touch sensor IC (483)) may be included as part of another component (e.g., the auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1) placed outside the second display module (402).

[0232] According to one embodiment, the third touch sensor (481) may be placed between the pixels of the pixel layer of the third display (460), or above or below the pixel layer.

[0233] According to one embodiment, all or some of the components of the second DDI (470) may be embedded in the processor (120). For example, all or some of the operations of the second DDI (470) may be performed by the processor (120).

[0234] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the package form of a display (e.g., a display panel) and a display driver IC.

[0235] Referring to FIG. 5, a foldable electronic device (e.g., electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a to 2d, electronic device (300) of FIG. 3a to 3e, foldable electronic device (400) of FIG. 4) may include a first display module (e.g., first display module (401) of FIG. 4), and a second display module (e.g., second display module (402) of FIG. 4).

[0236] For example, the first display module (e.g., the first display module (401) of FIG. 4) may include a packaged display panel and a DDI.

[0237] For example, the second display module (e.g., the second display module (402) of FIG. 4) may include a packaged display panel and a DDI.

[0238] According to one embodiment, the packaging of a display module can be broadly classified into three types.

[0239] First, in the COG (chip on glass) method shown in FIG. 5 (a), a display panel (512) and a DDI (513) can be placed on a glass substrate (511). The glass substrate (551) and the FPCB (514) can be electrically connected.

[0240] Second, a display panel (512) can be placed on a glass substrate (511) in the COF (chip on film) method shown in FIG. 5 (b). A DDI (513) can be placed on a film substrate (515). The glass substrate (511) and the film substrate (515) can be electrically connected. The film substrate (515) and the FPCB (514) can be electrically connected.

[0241] Third, a display panel (512) and a DDI (513) can be placed on a PI (polyimide) substrate (521) in the COP (chin on plastic) method shown in FIG. 5 (c). The PI substrate (521) and the FPCB (514) can be electrically connected.

[0242] For example, the COG method may be difficult to apply to foldable electronic devices (or flexible electronic devices) because the glass substrate (551) cannot be bent. On the other hand, the COF method can bend the film substrate (515), and the COP method can bend the PI substrate (521), so it can be applied to foldable electronic devices (or flexible electronic devices).

[0243] Figure 6a is a diagram showing the configuration when a display (e.g., a display panel) and a display driver IC are placed in the same direction in a COP structure.

[0244] Figure 6b is a diagram showing the configuration when the display (e.g., display panel) and the display driver IC are placed in opposite directions in a COP structure.

[0245] Referring to FIGS. 6a and 6b, a display panel (512) and a DDI (513) can be placed on a PI (polyimide) substrate (521) using a COP (chin on plastic) method. The PI substrate (521) and an FPCB (514) can be electrically connected. The display panel (512) can be placed considering the height of the DDI (513) and surrounding electronic components.

[0246] The portion where the DDI (513) is placed can be a BM area that is obscured by the black matrix (BM). For example, as shown in FIG. 6a, when the display panel (512) and the DDI (513) are placed in the same direction, the width of the BM area (525) can be widened. For example, as shown in FIG. 6b, when the PI substrate (521) is bent so that the display panel (512) and the DDI (513) are placed in opposite directions, the width of the BM area (526) can be relatively narrowed.

[0247] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a second display (e.g., a first sub-display, a first external display) and a third display (e.g., a cover display, a second sub-display, a second external display) arranged on the rear surface of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 shows the rear surface of a foldable electronic device (700) (e.g., the electronic device (300) of FIG. 3a to 3e, the foldable electronic device (400) of FIG. 4).

[0248] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a hinge structure placed in a hinge area and a front plate connected to the hinge structure.

[0249] Figure 9 is a plan view showing the hinge area.

[0250] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge region along the line AA' shown in FIG. 9.

[0251] Referring to FIG. 3a and FIG. 7 to 10, according to one embodiment, a flexible display (330) (e.g., first display, foldable display, main display) may be disposed on the front of a foldable electronic device (700) (e.g., electronic device (300) of FIG. 3a to 3e, foldable electronic device (400) of FIG. 4).

[0252] According to one embodiment, a sub-display (710) (e.g., a second display, a first external display, or a first sub-display) and a cover display (720) (e.g., a third display, a second external display, or a second sub-display) may be disposed on the rear of a foldable electronic device (700).

[0253] For example, a sub-display (710) may be placed on the rear of the first housing (310) of the foldable electronic device (700) (e.g., the first housing (310) of FIG. 3A). A sub-display (710) may be placed on the upper side (702) of the rear of the foldable electronic device (700). For example, a cover display (720) may be placed on the rear of the second housing (320) of the foldable electronic device (700) (e.g., the second housing (310) of FIG. 3A). A cover display (720) may be placed on the lower side (703) of the rear of the foldable electronic device. Not limited thereto, the cover display (720) may be placed on the upper side (702) and the sub-display (710) may be placed on the lower side (703).

[0254] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (700) may include a front plate (730) that supports a sub-display (710) and a cover display (720). A hinge structure (810) may be disposed in a hinge region (701) between a first housing (310) and a second housing (320). The front plate (730) that supports the sub-display (710) and the cover display (720) may be connected to the hinge structure (810) through a connecting structure (820).

[0255] For example, the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) can be connected by a screw as a connecting structure (820).

[0256] For example, the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) can be connected as a bonding structure (820).

[0257] For example, the hinge structure (810) can be connected to a front plate (730) placed in a first housing (310) (e.g., the first housing (310) of FIG. 3A). The hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) can be connected by a connecting structure (825) placed in a connecting area (840).

[0258] For example, the hinge structure (810) can be connected to a front plate (730) placed in a second housing (320) (e.g., the second housing (310) of FIG. 3a). The hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) can be connected by a connection structure (820) placed in a connection area (830). According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (810) is applied to a foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (400) of FIG. 4) in addition to minimizing the BM area of ​​the display, so the location where the DDI (e.g., the DDI (1120) of FIG. 11) of the cover display (720) (e.g., the cover display (1110) of FIG. 11) is placed may be important.

[0259] According to one embodiment, as the hinge structure (810) moves due to the folding and unfolding of the foldable electronic device (700), it may be difficult to place the DDI of the cover display (1110)) (e.g., the DDI (1120) of FIG. 11) in the part where the hinge structure (810) is placed, so the DDI (1120) of the cover display (720, 1110) must be placed by avoiding the hinge structure (810).

[0260] FIGS. 11a and FIGS. 11b are drawings showing that a second display driver IC for driving a third display is placed in a peripheral area of ​​the hinge area (e.g., an area where the hinge structure and the front plate are connected).

[0261] FIG. 12 is a drawing (1200) showing an area where a second display driver IC for driving a third display in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can be placed.

[0262] Referring to FIG. 10, FIG. 11a, FIG. 11b and FIG. 12, according to one embodiment, a DDI (1120) of a cover display (720, 1110) may be disposed in a first part (1210) located on the upper side (A) in the y-axis direction within the internal space of a second housing (320) (e.g., the second housing (310) of FIG. 3a, the second housing (310) of FIG. 7) of a foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (700) of FIG. 7). For example, the first part (1210) located on the upper side (A) in the y-axis direction may correspond to a connection area (830) where a hinge structure (810) and a front plate (730) are connected.

[0263] According to one embodiment, a DDI (1120) of a cover display (720, 1110) may be placed in a second part (1220) located on the side (B) in the -x-axis direction within the internal space of the second housing (320) of the foldable electronic device (700).

[0264] According to one embodiment, a DDI (1120) of a cover display (720, 1110) may be placed in a third part (1230) located on the side (C) in the x-axis direction within the internal space of the second housing (320) of the foldable electronic device (700).

[0265] According to one embodiment, a DDI (1120) of a cover display (720, 1110) can be placed in a fourth part (1240) located on the lower side (D) in the -y-axis direction within the internal space of the second housing (320) of the foldable electronic device (700).

[0266] FIG. 11 illustrates, as an example, that a DDI (1120) of a cover display (720, 1110) is placed in a first part (1210) located on the upper side (A) in the y-axis direction within the internal space of the second housing (320) of the foldable electronic device (700). For example, a battery (1189) (e.g., the battery (189) of FIG. 1) may be placed in the internal space of the second housing (320).

[0267] The following description is based on an embodiment in which a DDI (1120) of a cover display (720, 1110) is placed in a connection area (830) where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected.

[0268] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the cover display (1110) (e.g., the cover display (720) of FIG. 7) may be positioned to overlap with a connection structure (820) to which the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected (e.g., fastened).

[0269] For example, at least a portion of the cover display (1110) (e.g., the cover display (720) of FIG. 7) may be positioned to overlap with the connection area (830) where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected.

[0270] According to one embodiment, the DDI (1120) of the cover display (720, 1110) may be positioned to overlap with the connection structure (820) to which the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected (e.g., fastened) (e.g., to overlap with the area where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected).

[0271] For example, the DDI (1120) of the cover display (720, 1110) may be positioned to overlap with the connection area (830) where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected.

[0272] According to one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6b, a DDI (1120) (e.g., DDI (513) in FIG. 6b) is placed on a PI substrate (521), and the PI substrate (521) may be bent so that the DDI (1120) is positioned below the cover display (1110). For example, the DDI (1120) may be positioned to overlap at least a portion of the cover display (720, 1110).

[0273] By positioning the cover display (1110) and the DDI (1120) of the cover display (720, 1110) so as to overlap with the connection area (830) where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected, the space of the rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (700) can be effectively utilized, and the area of ​​the cover display (720, 1110) visible from the outside (e.g., viewing area, screen size) can be expanded. In addition, even if the DDI (1120) of the cover display (1110) and the cover display (720, 1110) is applied to the foldable electronic device (700), the battery (1189) area can be prevented from being reduced.

[0274] As illustrated in FIG. 11b, a foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (700) of FIG. 7) may include a cushioning member (1140). For example, the cushioning member (1140) may be placed in the internal space of the second housing (320) between the cover display (720, 1110) (e.g., the third display) and the DDI (1120) of the cover display (720, 1110) (e.g., the second display driver IC). The cushioning member (1140) can absorb shocks generated during the unfolding and folding operation of the hinge structure (810) to prevent damage to the DDI (1120) of the cover display (720, 1110) (e.g., the second display driver IC) and the cover display (720, 1110) (e.g., the third display).

[0275] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a structure in which a first flexible circuit board (first FPCB) and a second flexible circuit board (second FPCB) are electrically connected in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0276] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a first flexible circuit board (first FPCB) arranged in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0277] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing a second flexible circuit board (second FPCB) disposed in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0278] Referring to FIGS. 13 through 15, according to one embodiment, a first printed circuit board (1420) may be disposed in the internal space of a first housing (310) of a foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (700) of FIG. 7). For example, the first printed circuit board (1420) may be disposed in a first region (1401) (e.g., the upper portion) of the foldable electronic device (700). For example, the first printed circuit board (1420) may include a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1), a memory (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1), an image processor for driving a camera, and electronic components.

[0279] According to one embodiment, a second printed circuit board (1430) may be disposed in the internal space of the second housing (320) of the foldable electronic device (700). For example, the second printed circuit board (1430) may be disposed in the second region (1402) (e.g., lower part) of the foldable electronic device (700).

[0280] For example, the second printed circuit board (1430) may include a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1), a first DDI (e.g., first DDI (430) of FIG. 4), a communication module (e.g., communication module (190) of FIG. 1, or communication circuit), an audio module (e.g., audio module of FIG. 1), or audio circuit), and electronic components.

[0281] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (700) may include a first flexible circuit board (1410) (first FPCB) that electrically connects a first printed circuit board (1420) and a second printed circuit board (1430). For example, the first flexible circuit board (1410) may be positioned to cross a hinge area (701) from a first area (1401) (e.g., upper part) of the foldable electronic device (700) to a second area (1402) (e.g., lower part). For example, the first flexible circuit board (1410) may include a first connector (1412) for electrical connection with a second flexible circuit board (1130) (second FPCB).

[0282] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (700) may include a second flexible circuit board (1130) (second FPCB) that is electrically connected to a DDI (1120) of a cover display (720, 1110) (e.g., the second DDI (470) of FIG. 4). For example, the second flexible circuit board (1130) may include a second connector (1132) for electrical connection with a first flexible circuit board (1410).

[0283] According to one embodiment, the first connector (1412) of the first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second connector (1132) of the second flexible circuit board (1130) are combined so that the first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second flexible circuit board (1130) can be electrically connected.

[0284] For example, the processor (120) can control the operation of the first DDI (e.g., the first DDI (430) of FIG. 4) through the first flexible circuit board (1410).

[0285] For example, by electrically connecting the first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second flexible circuit board (1130), the processor (120) can control the operation of the DDI (1120) of the cover display (720, 1110) (e.g., the second DDI (470) of FIG. 4).

[0286] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing that a pressure cap is positioned so that the connector of the first flexible circuit board (first FPCB) and the connector of the second flexible circuit board (second FPCB) are not separated.

[0287] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 16, even if the foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (700) of FIG. 7) is dropped or subjected to an external impact, the connection between the first connector (1412) of the first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second connector (1132) of the second flexible circuit board (1130) must be maintained.

[0288] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (700) may include a pressure cap (1610) for maintaining the connection between a first connector (1412) of a first flexible circuit board (1410) and a second connector (1132) of a second flexible circuit board (1130). For example, the pressure cap (1610) may be positioned to press the connection structure of the first connector (1412) and the second connector (1132) in the z-axis direction. The pressure cap (1610) may be secured by a separate fixing structure (e.g., a screw or a bonding structure).

[0289] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a waterproof structure disposed in a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0290] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view along the line AA' of FIG. 17.

[0291] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (700) of FIG. 7) may include a waterproof structure (1710) (e.g., waterproof tape) disposed on four sides of the second housing (320) to seal the internal space of the second housing (320).

[0292] For example, a waterproof structure (1710) may be positioned to surround the outer edge of the cover display (1110). At least a portion of the waterproof structure (1710) may include a right angle shape and a closed curve shape. The foldable electronic device (700) has no problem applying a waterproof structure even if a hinge structure (810) is positioned in a hinge area (701) and a cover display (1110) and a DDI (1120) of the cover display (720, 1110) are positioned to overlap with a connection area (830) located around the hinge structure (810).

[0293] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing that the second display and the third display are applied as non-volatile displays capable of displaying a screen for a certain period of time without power.

[0294] FIG. 19 shows the back of a foldable electronic device (1900) (e.g., the electronic device (300) of FIG. 3a to 3e, the foldable electronic device (400) of FIG. 4).

[0295] The foldable electronic device (1900) of FIG. 19 may be at least partially similar to the foldable electronic device (700) of FIG. 7 to FIG. 11, or may further include other embodiments of the foldable electronic device (700).

[0296] Referring to FIG. 19, a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (330) of FIG. 3a) may be disposed on the front of a foldable electronic device (1900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the flexible display (330) may be a flexible OLED display and may operate as a first display, a foldable display, or a main display of the foldable electronic device (1900). For example, the foldable electronic device (1900) may include a first DDI (e.g., the first DDI (430) of FIG. 4) for driving the flexible display (330).

[0297] According to one embodiment, a second display (1920) (e.g., a first sub-display, a first external display, a first cover display) and a third display (1930) (e.g., a second sub-display, a second external display, a second cover display) may be disposed on the rear of a foldable electronic device (1900).

[0298] For example, the second display (1920) and the third display (1930) may include displays that can maintain a screen without power (e.g., non-volatile display, electronic ink (E-ink) display, electrophoretic display).

[0299] According to one embodiment, a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (810) of FIG. 8) may be disposed in the hinge region (1901) between the first housing (310) and the second housing (320).

[0300] According to one embodiment, as the hinge structure (810) moves due to the folding and unfolding of the foldable electronic device (1900), it may be difficult to place the second DDI (1925) and the third DDI (1935) in the portion where the hinge structure (810) is placed, so the second DDI (1925) and the third DDI (1935) must be placed by avoiding the hinge structure (810).

[0301] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1900) may include a second DDI (1925) for driving a second display (1920). For example, the second display (1920) and the second DDI (1925) may be positioned on the rear side of the first housing (310). For example, the first cover display (1920) and the second DDI (1925) may be positioned on the lower side (1902) of the rear side of the first housing (310).

[0302] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (1900) may include a third DDI (1935) for driving a third display (1930). For example, the third display (1930) and the third DDI (1935) may be positioned on the rear side of the second housing (320). For example, the second cover display (1930) and the third DDI (1935) may be positioned on the upper side (1903) of the rear side of the second housing (320).

[0303] For example, based on the y-axis direction, the second DDI (1925) can be positioned to overlap the upper connecting area (831) of the hinge area (1901).

[0304] For example, based on the y-axis direction, the third DDI (1935) can be positioned to overlap the connecting area (832) on the lower side of the hinge area (1901).

[0305] A second DDI (1925) may be positioned to overlap with a first connection area (831) where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (e.g., the front plate (730) of FIG. 8) are connected, and a third DDI (1935) may be positioned to overlap with the second connection area (832).

[0306] In this way, by arranging the second DDI (1925) and the third DDI (1935), the space of the rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1900) can be effectively utilized, and the area (e.g., viewing area, screen size) of the second display (1920) and the third display (1930) visible from the outside can be expanded. Additionally, even if the second display (1920), the third display (1930), the second DDI (1925), and the third DDI (1935) are applied to the foldable electronic device (1900), the battery area can be prevented from being reduced.

[0307] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing that a second display driver IC for driving a third display is disposed in a peripheral area of ​​a hinge area of ​​a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., an area where the hinge structure and the front plate are connected).

[0308] FIG. 20 shows the back of a foldable electronic device (2000) (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a to 2d, the foldable electronic device (400) of FIG. 4).

[0309] The foldable electronic device (2000) of FIG. 20 may be at least partially similar to the foldable electronic device (700) of FIG. 7 to FIG. 11, or may further include other embodiments of the foldable electronic device (700).

[0310] Referring to FIG. 20, the front of a foldable electronic device (2000) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first display (e.g., the first display (230) of FIG. 2a).

[0311] For example, the first display (230) is a flexible OLED display and can operate as the first display, foldable display, or main display of the foldable electronic device (2000). For example, the foldable electronic device (1900) may include a first DDI (e.g., the first DDI (430) of FIG. 4) for driving the flexible display (330).

[0312] Referring to FIG. 2b and FIG. 20, according to one embodiment, a second display (235) (e.g., a first sub-display, a second rear display) may be disposed on a first side (e.g., a fourth side (222)) among the rear surfaces of a foldable electronic device (2000). For example, the second display (235) may include an OLED display. For example, the second display (235) may be driven by a first DDI (430).

[0313] According to one embodiment, a third display (2010) (e.g., a second sub-display, a second rear display) may be disposed on a second side (2002) (e.g., a second surface (212)) among the rear surfaces of a foldable electronic device (2000).

[0314] For example, the third display (2010) may include a display that can maintain a screen without power (e.g., a non-volatile display, an electronic ink (E-ink) display, an electrophoretic display).

[0315] For example, the foldable electronic device (2000) may include a second DDI (2020) that operates a third display (2010).

[0316] According to one embodiment, a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (810) of FIG. 8) may be disposed in the hinge region (2001) between the first housing and the second housing.

[0317] According to one embodiment, as the hinge structure (810) moves due to the folding and unfolding of the foldable electronic device (2000), it may be difficult to place the second DDI (2020) in the portion where the hinge structure (810) is placed, so the second DDI (12020) must be placed by avoiding the hinge structure (810).

[0318] According to one embodiment, the second DDI (2020) may be positioned to overlap the hinge area (2001) and the adjacent connection area (2030). For example, the second DDI (2020) may be positioned to overlap the connection area (2030) where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (e.g., the front plate (730) of FIG. 8) are connected.

[0319] In this way, by arranging the second DDI (2020), the space of the rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (2000) can be effectively utilized, and the area of ​​the third display (2010) visible from the outside (e.g., viewing area, screen size) can be expanded. Additionally, even if the third display (2010) and the second DDI (2020) are applied to the foldable electronic device (2000), the battery area can be prevented from being reduced.

[0320] FIGS. 21a to 21c are drawings illustrating a multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0321] FIG. 21a illustrates a first state (e.g., unfolded state, expanded state) of a multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 21b illustrates a second state (e.g., folded once, intermediate state) of a multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 21c illustrates a third state (e.g., folded twice, contracted state) of a multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0322] Referring to FIGS. 21a to 21c, a multi-foldable electronic device (2100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a housing structure (2110), a foldable display (2120) (e.g., a flexible display), a plurality of hinge portions (2130), an external display (2140) (e.g., a cover display), and a DDI (2150) of the external display.

[0323] For example, a foldable display (2120) may be placed in the internal space of a housing structure (2110). The foldable display (2120) may be supported by the housing structure (2110).

[0324] For example, a multi-foldable electronic device (2100) may have a housing structure (2110) formed so that it can be folded twice. The housing structure (2110) may include a first housing (2111), a second housing (2112), and a third housing (2113).

[0325] For example, the foldable display (2120) may include a first display portion (or, first display area) (2121), a second display portion (or, second display area) (2122), and a third display portion (or, third display area) (2123).

[0326] For example, a first display portion (2121) of a foldable display (2120) may be placed in the internal space of a first housing (2111). The first display portion (2121) of the foldable display (2120) may be supported by the first housing (2111).

[0327] For example, a second display portion (2122) of the foldable display (2120) may be placed in the internal space of the second housing (2112). The second display portion (2122) of the foldable display (2120) may be supported by the second housing (2112).

[0328] For example, a third display portion (2123) of the foldable display (2120) may be placed in the internal space of the third housing (2113). The third display portion (2123) of the foldable display (2120) may be supported by the third housing (2113).

[0329] According to one embodiment, an external display (2140) (e.g., a cover display) may be placed in the external space of the housing structure (2110).

[0330] For example, the external display (2140) (e.g., cover display) may include a display that can maintain a screen without power (e.g., non-volatile display, electronic ink (E-ink) display, or electrophoretic display).

[0331] For example, a plurality of hinge portions (2130) may include a first hinge portion (2131) (e.g., a narrow hinge portion) and a second hinge portion (2132) (e.g., a wide hinge portion).

[0332] For example, a first hinge portion (2131) (e.g., a narrow hinge portion) may be positioned between the first housing (2111) and the second housing (2112) so that the first housing (2111) and the second housing (2112) can be folded or unfolded. A first side of the first hinge portion (2131) (e.g., a narrow hinge portion) may be connected to the first housing (2111), and a second side of the first hinge portion (2131) (e.g., a narrow hinge portion) may be connected to the second housing (2112).

[0333] For example, a second hinge portion (2132) (e.g., a wide hinge portion) may be positioned between the second housing (2112) and the third housing (2113) so that the second housing (2112) and the third housing (2113) can be folded or unfolded. A first side of the second hinge portion (2132) (e.g., a wide hinge portion) may be connected to the second housing (2112), and a second side of the second hinge portion (2132) (e.g., a wide hinge portion) may be connected to the third housing (2113).

[0334] In a multi-foldable electronic device (2100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a first state (e.g., unfolded state, extended state), the first housing (2111), the second housing (2112), and the third housing (2113) can all be unfolded.

[0335] For example, a multi-foldable electronic device (2100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be in an unfolded state (e.g., first state, expanded state). For example, as shown in FIG. 21a2a, the first display portion (2121), the second display portion (2122), and the third display portion (2123) of the foldable display (2120) may all be unfolded so that the screen size is maximized.

[0336] A multi-foldable electronic device (2100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be in a second state (e.g., a state folded once, an intermediate state).

[0337] For example, a multi-foldable electronic device (2100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be folded so that a first housing (2111) and a second housing (2112) are close together by a first hinge portion (2131) (e.g., a narrow hinge portion) as shown in FIG. 21b2b. In the present disclosure, the first housing (2111) and the second housing (2112) being folded close together by a first hinge portion (2131) (e.g., a narrow hinge portion) may be defined as a first folding state.

[0338] A multi-foldable electronic device (2100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be in a third state (e.g., a state folded twice, a reduced state).

[0339] For example, a multi-foldable electronic device (2100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may, in a first folding state in which a first housing (2111) and a second housing (2112) are folded close together by a first hinge portion (2131) (e.g., a narrow hinge portion), additionally, the first housing (21112112) and a third housing (2113) may be folded close together by a second hinge portion (2132) (e.g., a wide hinge portion). In the present disclosure, the first housing (21112112) and the third housing (2113) being folded close together by a second hinge portion (2132) (e.g., a wide hinge portion) may be defined as a second folding state.

[0340] According to one embodiment, a DDI (2150) of an external display for driving an external display (2140) (e.g., a cover display) may be positioned in a portion (2155) adjacent to a second hinge portion (2132) (e.g., a wide hinge portion).

[0341] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., the foldable electronic device of FIG. 4 (400), the foldable electronic device of FIG. 7 (700)) comprises: a housing including a first housing (e.g., the first housing (310) of FIG. 7) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (320) of FIG. 7); a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (810) of FIG. 8) rotatably connecting the first housing (310) and the second housing (320); a battery disposed in the second housing (320) (e.g., the battery (1189) of FIG. 11); a first display disposed on a first surface of the first housing (310) and a first surface of the second housing (320) (e.g., the flexible display (330) of FIG. 3a); a second display disposed on a second surface of the first housing (310) (e.g., the sub-display (710) of FIG. 7); and the A third display (cover display (720) of FIG. 7, cover display (1110) of FIG. 11) disposed on the second surface of the second housing (320), a front plate supporting the second display (710) and the third display (720, 1110) (e.g., front plate (730) of FIG. 8), a first display driver IC (integrated circuit) driving the first display (330) and the second display (710) (e.g., first DDI (430) of FIG. 4), a first printed circuit board disposed in the first housing (310) (e.g., first printed circuit board (1420) of FIG. 14), a second printed circuit board disposed in the second housing (320) (e.g., second printed circuit board (1430) of FIG. 14), the first printed circuit board (1420) and the second A first flexible circuit board (e.g., the first flexible circuit board (1410) of FIG. 14) that electrically connects the printed circuit board (1430), at least one processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) disposed on the first printed circuit board (1420), and a third display (720) disposed on the second printed circuit board (1430).It may include a second display driver IC (e.g., the second display driver IC (470) of FIG. 4, the second display driver IC (1120) of FIG. 11) for driving the first display driver IC (1110), and a second flexible circuit board (e.g., the second flexible circuit board (1130) of FIG. 15) electrically connected to the second display driver IC (470, 1120). The first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second flexible circuit board (1130) may be configured to be electrically connected. The at least one processor (120) may be configured to control the operation of the first display driver IC (430) and the second display driver IC (470, 1120). The second display driver IC (470, 1120) may be located in the upper region of the second housing and may be positioned so as not to overlap with the battery.

[0342] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) may be placed in a connection area (830) where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected.

[0343] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) and the front plate (730) may be arranged to overlap.

[0344] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) may be placed in the second housing (320) so as to overlap the rear surface of the third display (720, 1110).

[0345] According to the embodiment of *317, the first flexible circuit board (1410) may include a first connector (1412). The second flexible circuit board (1330) may include a second connector (1332). The first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second flexible circuit board (1330) may be electrically connected by the combination of the first connector (1412) and the second connector (1332).

[0346] According to one embodiment, the first connector (1412) and the second connector (1332) may be arranged to overlap the connection area (830).

[0347] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (400, 700) may include a pressure cap (1610) positioned to press the first connector (1412) and the second connector (1332) in the z-axis direction.

[0348] According to the embodiment of *320, the first display (330) and the second display (710) may include an OLED (organic light emitting diode) display. The third display (720, 1110) may include a non-volatile display capable of displaying a screen for a certain period of time without power.

[0349] According to one embodiment, the first display (330) may include an OLED (organic light emitting diode) display. The second display (710) and the third display (720, 1110) may include non-volatile displays capable of displaying a screen for a certain period of time without power.

[0350] According to one embodiment, it may include a waterproof structure arranged to surround the third display (720, 1110).

[0351] A foldable electronic device (400, 700) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a housing including a first housing (310) and a second housing (320); a hinge structure (810) rotatably connecting the first housing (310) and the second housing (320); a battery (1189) disposed in the second housing (320); a first display (330) disposed on a first surface of the first housing (310) and a first surface of the second housing (320); a second display (710) disposed on a second surface of the first housing (310); a third display (720, 1110) disposed on a second surface of the second housing (320); a front plate (730) supporting the second display (710) and the third display (720, 1110); and a first device for driving the first display (330) and the second display (710). It may include a display driver IC (430) (integrated circuit), a first printed circuit board (1420) disposed in the first housing (310), a second printed circuit board (1430) disposed in the second housing (320), a first flexible circuit board (1410) electrically connecting the first printed circuit board (1420) and the second printed circuit board (1430), at least one processor (120) disposed in the first printed circuit board (1420), a second display driver IC (470, 1120) disposed in the second printed circuit board (1430) and driving the third display (720, 1110), and a second flexible circuit board (1130) electrically connected to the second display driver IC (470, 1120). The first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second flexible circuit board (1130) can be configured to be electrically connected. The second display driver IC (470, 1120) can be placed on any one of the four sides inside the second housing (320).

[0352] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) may be placed on the upper portion of the four sides inside the second housing (320), which is the portion where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected.

[0353] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) may be placed on the lower side among the four sides inside the second housing (320).

[0354] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) may be placed on the left side among the four sides inside the second housing (320).

[0355] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) may be placed on the right side among the four sides inside the second housing (320).

[0356] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) may be placed in the second housing (320) so as to overlap the rear surface of the third display (720, 1110).

[0357] According to one embodiment, the second display driver IC (470, 1120) and the front plate (730) may be overlapped and arranged so as not to overlap the second display driver IC (470, 1120) and the battery.

[0358] According to one embodiment, the first flexible circuit board (1410) may include a first connector (1412). The second flexible circuit board (1330) may include a second connector (1332). The first flexible circuit board (1410) and the flexible circuit board may be electrically connected by the combination of the first connector (1412) and the second connector (1332).

[0359] According to one embodiment, the first display (330) and the second display (710) may include an OLED (organic light emitting diode) display. The third display (720, 1110) may include a non-volatile display capable of displaying a screen for a certain period of time without power.

[0360] According to one embodiment, the first display (330) may include an OLED (organic light emitting diode) display. The second display (710) and the third display (720, 1110) may include non-volatile displays capable of displaying a screen for a certain period of time without power.

[0361] A foldable electronic device (400, 700) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may have a cover display (1110) and a cover display (720, 1110) DDI (1120) arranged to overlap with a connection area (830) where a hinge structure (810) and a front plate (730) are connected. By arranging the cover display (1110) and the cover display (720, 1110) DDI (1120) in this manner, the space of the rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (700) can be effectively utilized, and the area of ​​the cover display (720, 1110) visible from the outside (e.g., viewing area, screen size) can be expanded. In addition, even if the cover display (1110) and the cover display (720, 1110) DDI (1120) are applied to the foldable electronic device (700), the battery area can be prevented from being reduced.

[0362] A foldable electronic device (1900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may have a second DDI (1925) and a third DDI (1935) arranged so as to overlap with a connection area (830) where a hinge structure (810) and a front plate (730) are connected. By arranging the second DDI (1925) and the third DDI (1935) in this way, the space of the rear area of ​​the foldable electronic device (1900) can be effectively utilized, and the area (e.g., viewing area, screen size) of the second display (1920) and the third display (1930) visible from the outside can be expanded. In addition, even if the second display (1920), the third display (1930), the second DDI (1925), and the third DDI (1935) are applied to the foldable electronic device (1900), the battery area can be prevented from being reduced.

[0363] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0364] Furthermore, the embodiments of the present disclosure disclosed in this specification and drawings are merely specific examples provided to facilitate the explanation of the technical content according to the embodiments of the present disclosure and to aid in understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be interpreted to include all modifications or variations derived based on the technical concept of the various embodiments of the present disclosure, in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device (400, 700), A housing comprising a first housing (310) and a second housing (320); A hinge structure (810) that rotatably connects the first housing (310) and the second housing (320); A battery (1189) placed in the second housing (320); A first display (330) disposed on the first surface of the first housing (310) and the first surface of the second housing (320); A second display (710) disposed on the second surface of the first housing (310); A third display (720, 1110) disposed on the second surface of the second housing (320); A front plate (730) supporting the second display (710) and the third display (720, 1110); A first display driver IC (430) (integrated circuit) for driving the first display (330) and the second display (710); A first printed circuit board (1420) disposed in the first housing (310); A second printed circuit board (1430) disposed in the second housing (320); A first flexible circuit board (1410) that electrically connects the first printed circuit board (1420) and the second printed circuit board (1430); At least one processor (120) disposed on the first printed circuit board (1420); A second display driver IC (470, 1120) disposed on the second printed circuit board (1430) and driving the third display (720, 1110); and It includes a second flexible circuit board (1130) electrically connected to the second display driver IC (470, 1120); and The first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second flexible circuit board (1130) are configured to be electrically connected, The second display driver IC (470, 1120) is disposed on any one of the four sides inside the second housing (320). Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

2. In Paragraph 1, Among the four sides inside the second housing (320), the second display driver IC (470, 1120) is disposed on the upper side, which is the part where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected. Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

3. In Paragraph 1, The second display driver IC (470, 1120) is disposed in the second housing (320) so as to overlap the rear surface of the third display (720, 1110). Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

4. In Paragraph 1, The second display driver IC (470, 1120) and the front plate (730) overlap, and are arranged so as not to overlap the second display driver IC (470, 1120) and the battery, Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

5. In Paragraph 4, The first flexible circuit board (1410) includes a first connector (1412), and The second flexible circuit board (1330) includes a second connector (1332), and The first flexible circuit board (1410) and the flexible circuit board are electrically connected by the combination of the first connector (1412) and the second connector (1332). Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

6. In Paragraph 1, The above at least one processor (120) is, It is configured to control the operation of the first display driver IC (430) and the second display driver IC (470, 1120), and The above second display driver IC (470, 1120) is, Located in the upper region of the second housing and positioned so as not to overlap with the battery, Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

7. In Paragraph 6, The second display driver IC (470, 1120) is disposed in the connection area (830) where the hinge structure (810) and the front plate (730) are connected. Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

8. In Paragraph 7, The second display driver IC (470, 1120) and the front plate (730) are arranged to overlap, Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

9. In Paragraph 6, The second display driver IC (470, 1120) is disposed in the second housing (320) so as to overlap the rear surface of the third display (720, 1110). Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

10. In Paragraph 9, The first flexible circuit board (1410) includes a first connector (1412), and The second flexible circuit board (1330) includes a second connector (1332), and The first flexible circuit board (1410) and the second flexible circuit board (1330) are electrically connected by the combination of the first connector (1412) and the second connector (1332). Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

11. In Paragraph 10, The first connector (1412) and the second connector (1332) are arranged to overlap in the connection area (830), Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

12. In Paragraph 10, A pressure cap (1610) positioned to press the first connector (1412) and the second connector (1332) in the z-axis direction, Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

13. In Paragraph 1 or Paragraph 6, The first display (330) and the second display (710) include an OLED (organic light emitting diode) display, The above third display (720, 1110) includes a non-volatile display capable of displaying a screen for a certain period of time without power. Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

14. In Paragraph 1 or 6, The first display (330) includes an OLED (organic light emitting diode) display, and The second display (710) and the third display (720, 1110) include non-volatile displays capable of displaying a screen for a certain period of time without power. Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

15. In Paragraph 6, A waterproof structure arranged to surround the third display (720, 1110), Foldable electronic device (400, 700).

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