Foldable electronic device comprising support assembly

Abstract

A foldable electronic device according to embodiments may comprise: a foldable housing including a first housing, a second housing and a hinge housing; a hinge assembly which is at least partially disposed in the hinge housing and which rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing; a flexible display which extends across the hinge assembly and which is at least partially disposed in the first housing and the second housing; and a support assembly that at least partially supports the flexible display. The support assembly can include: a first fixing member coupled to the hinge housing; a second fixing member coupled to the first fixing member; and a driving member that can move in a space between the first fixing member and the second fixing member. In a state in which the foldable electronic device is unfolded, one surface of the first fixing member and one surface of the driving member can at least partially support the flexible display. In a state in which the foldable electronic device is folded, the one surface of the driving member can form a step relative to the one surface of the first fixing member.

Description

Foldable electronic device including a support assembly

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a foldable electronic device comprising a support assembly.

[0002] As technology advances, electronic devices are evolving to become lighter and thinner for portability and convenience. For example, foldable electronic devices equipped with flexible displays are configured to be foldable or unfoldable while providing a relatively larger screen than conventional bar-type electronic devices, thereby improving the portability of electronic devices.

[0003] Accordingly, research is actively being conducted on the structure of electronic devices to ensure the durability of flexible displays that fold or unfold together during the process of folding or unfolding the foldable electronic device. In particular, ensuring the durability of the folding part of the flexible display corresponding to the hinge that allows the electronic device to be folded can determine the quality of the foldable electronic device.

[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] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly that is at least partially disposed within the hinge housing and rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display that spans the hinge assembly and is at least partially disposed within the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a support assembly that supports the flexible display at least partially. The support assembly may include a first fixing member coupled to the hinge housing. The support assembly may include a second fixing member coupled to the first fixing member. The support assembly may include a driving member configured to be movable within the space between the first fixing member and the second fixing member. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, one surface of the first fixing member and one surface of the driving member may at least partially support the flexible display. When the above foldable electronic device is in a folded state, one side of the driving member may form a step with one side of the first fixing member.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly that is at least partially disposed within the hinge housing and rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display that spans the hinge assembly and is at least partially disposed within the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a support assembly that supports the flexible display at least partially. The support assembly may include a first fixing member coupled to the hinge housing. The support assembly may include a second fixing member coupled to the first fixing member. The support assembly may include a driving member configured to be movable within the space between the first fixing member and the second fixing member. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, as the driving member rises, one side of the driving member may support a folding portion of the flexible display. When the above foldable electronic device is in a folded state, as the driving member descends, the folding portion of the flexible display may be at least partially located within the recess formed by the side of the first fixed member and the one surface of the driving member.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a front view of a device according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the rear direction of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (A-A') of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (B-B') of FIG. 4 according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a support assembly according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the front of a support assembly according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a rear view of a support assembly according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly and a support assembly of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly and a support assembly of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (C-C') of FIG. 11 according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (E-E') of FIG. 12 according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (D-D') of FIG. 11 according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (F-F') of FIG. 12 according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (G-G') of FIG. 11 according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (H-H') of FIG. 12 according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a first driving member formed of an elastic material according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 20 is a front view of a first driving member formed of an elastic material in an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 21 is a front view of a first driving member formed of an elastic material in a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating the unfolded state of a foldable electronic device including a magnetic material according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 23 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of a foldable electronic device including a magnetic material according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 24 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0031] In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0032] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a rear plan view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) (e.g., a first housing structure) comprising a first side member (213) (e.g., a side bezel) and a second housing (220) (e.g., a second housing structure) comprising a second side member (223) (e.g., a side bezel), which are foldably joined to each other with respect to a folding axis (F) through at least one hinge device (240, 240-1) (e.g., a hinge module or a hinge structure) with respect to a folding axis (F). For example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be configured as a foldable housing (e.g., a housing structure). For example, the electronic device (200) may include a first display (230) (e.g., a flexible display, a foldable display, or a main display) positioned to be supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). For example, the first housing (210) may include a first surface (211) and a second surface (212) facing in the opposite direction of the first surface (211) (e.g., in the -z axis direction). For example, the second housing (220) may include a third surface (221) and a fourth surface (222) facing in the opposite direction of the third surface (221) (e.g., in the -z axis direction). For example, the first housing (210) may include a first rear cover (214) coupled with a first side member (213). For example, the second housing (220) may include a second rear cover (224) coupled with a second side member (223). For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a fully unfolded first state (e.g., unfolded state or unfolded state), the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) may be operated so that they face substantially the same direction (e.g., z-axis direction). For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a fully folded second state (e.g., folded state or folded state), the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) may be operated so that they face each other or face opposite directions.For example, the electronic device (200) may be operated to maintain a third state (e.g., an intermediate state) between the first state and the second state.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first receiver (201) disposed on a first surface (211) of a first housing (210), at least one first sensor module (204) (e.g., an ambient light sensor) and / or at least one first camera module (205) (e.g., a UDC, under display camera). For example, the electronic device (200) may include at least one key (206) disposed on a first side member (213). For example, the electronic device (200) may include at least one second camera module (208) and / or a flash (209) disposed on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210) (e.g., a first rear cover (214)). For example, the electronic device (200) may include a second display (231) disposed on the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220), at least one third camera module (225) (e.g., UDC, under display camera), at least one second sensor module (226) and / or a second receiver (227). For example, the second display (231) may be disposed so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover (224). For example, the electronic device (200) may include a speaker (202) disposed on the second side member (223), a microphone (203) disposed on the first side member (213), and / or a connector port (207). At least some of the aforementioned components may be repositioned in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0036] According to one embodiment, the first display (230) (e.g., flexible display) may include a first region (230a) (e.g., first planar portion) corresponding to at least a portion of the first surface (211), a second region (230b) (e.g., second planar portion) corresponding to at least a portion of the third surface (221), and a third region (230c) (e.g., flexible portion) connecting the first region (230a) and the second region (230b), to which the electronic device (200) is deformed in a second state (e.g., folding state) and / or a third state. For example, the third region (230c) may be positioned to overlap at least partially with at least one hinge device (240, 240-1) when the first display (230) is viewed from above (e.g., in the z-axis direction). For example, the first display (230) may be positioned so as not to be seen from the outside in the second state, with the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) facing each other (e.g., inward-fold type). For example, the first display (230) may be positioned so as to be seen from the outside in the second state, with the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) facing in opposite directions (e.g., outward-fold type).

[0037] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device (300) may include a foldable housing (305) comprising a first housing (310), a second housing (320), and a hinge housing (330), and a flexible display (340). For example, the foldable electronic device (300) may correspond to the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the foldable housing (305) may correspond to the foldable housing of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the first housing (310) may correspond to the first housing (210) of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the second housing (320) may correspond to the second housing (220) of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the flexible display (340) may correspond to the first display (230) of FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, a hinge housing (330) may be disposed between a first housing (310) and a second housing (320). For example, the hinge housing (330) may be formed integrally with the first housing (310) and the second housing (320), or it may be formed as a separate member. According to one embodiment, a flexible display (340) may be disposed at least partially within a foldable housing (305). For example, the flexible display (340) may include a first display portion (350), a second display portion (360), and a folding portion (370).

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, referring to FIG. 3, for example, a first display portion (350) of a flexible display (340) may be at least partially disposed within a first housing (310). For example, a second display portion (360) of a flexible display (340) may be at least partially disposed within a second housing (320). For example, a folding portion (370) of a flexible display (340) may be at least partially disposed within a hinge housing (330). For example, the folding portion (370) of a flexible display (340) may be a portion that folds or unfolds as the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 3, in a first unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may be arranged substantially parallel. For example, in the first state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may be arranged to face the +z-axis direction. For example, in the first state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first display portion (350) and the second display portion (360) of the flexible display (340) may be arranged substantially parallel. For example, in the first state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first display portion (350) and the second display portion (360) of the flexible display (340) may be arranged to face the +z-axis direction.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 4, in a folded second state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first housing (310) may be placed on the second housing (320). For example, in the second state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first housing (310) may be placed facing the second housing (320). For example, in the second state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first display portion (350) and the second display portion (360) of the flexible display (340) may be placed facing each other.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, while the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a first state to a second state, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may move closer to each other. For example, while the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a first state to a second state, the first display portion (350) and the second display portion (360) may move closer to each other. According to one embodiment, while the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a second state to a first state, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may move further apart from each other. For example, while the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a second state to a first state, the first display portion (350) and the second display portion (360) may move further apart from each other.

[0044] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable electronic device (300) may further include a hinge assembly (410), a support assembly (420), a first decorative member (430), a second decorative member (440), a first rear cover (450), and a second rear cover (460).

[0046] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a hinge assembly (410) can rotatably connect a first housing (310) and a second housing (320). For example, the first housing (310) may be coupled to one side of the hinge assembly (410). For example, the second housing (320) may be coupled to the other side opposite to one side of the hinge assembly (410). For example, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) are rotated by the hinge assembly (410), and as the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) are rotated, the foldable electronic device (300) may be folded or unfolded.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a hinge assembly (410) may be disposed between a hinge housing (330) and a flexible display (340). For example, the hinge assembly (410) may be disposed at least partially within the hinge housing (330). For example, the hinge assembly (410) may be disposed at a position corresponding to a folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340). For example, as the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded by the hinge assembly (410), the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340) may be folded or unfolded.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a support assembly (420) may be positioned between a flexible display (340) and a hinge assembly (410). For example, the support assembly (420) may be positioned at a location corresponding to a folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340). For example, while the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded, the support assembly (420) may support the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, the support assembly (420) may be positioned at least partially on the hinge assembly (410). For example, the support assembly (420) may be positioned in the central portion of the hinge assembly (410). For example, the support assembly (420) may be seated in the central portion of the hinge assembly (410). The structure of the support assembly (420) will be described in detail in FIGS. 6 to 10, which will be described later.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first decorative member (430) and the second decorative member (440) can protect the flexible display (340). For example, the first decorative member (430) may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the edge of the first display portion (350) of the flexible display (340). For example, the second decorative member (440) may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the edge of the second display portion (360) of the flexible display (340).

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first rear cover (450) and the second rear cover (460) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the foldable electronic device (300). For example, the first rear cover (450) may be formed to cover at least a portion of the rear surface facing the -z axis of the first housing (310). For example, the second rear cover (460) may be formed to cover at least a portion of the rear surface facing the -z axis of the second housing (320).

[0051] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (A-A') of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (B-B') of FIG. 4 according to one embodiment. For example, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 may be drawings illustrating the movement of a driving member (520) of a support assembly (420) while the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded or folded.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the support assembly (420) may include a fixed member (510) and a driving member (520). For example, the support assembly (420) may be at least partially disposed within a hinge housing (330). For example, the fixed member (510) of the support assembly (420) may be coupled to the hinge housing (330). For example, the fixed member (510) may be coupled to the hinge housing (330) and fixed to the hinge housing (330).

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the driving member (520) of the support assembly (420) may be configured to move within the space formed by the fixed member (510). For example, referring to FIG. 6, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a second state to a first state, the driving member (520) may be raised. For example, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a second state to a first state, the driving member (520) may be moved in a direction closer to the flexible display (340). For example, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a second state to a first state, the driving member (520) may be moved in the +z-axis direction.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 7, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a first state to a second state, the driving member (520) may descend. For example, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a first state to a second state, the driving member (520) may move away from the flexible display (340). For example, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a first state to a second state, the driving member (520) may move in the -z-axis direction.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, referring to FIG. 6, when the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the driving member (520) can support the flexible display (340) at least partially together with the fixing member (510). For example, when the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the driving member (520) can support the folding part (370) of the flexible display (340) so that the folding part (370) of the flexible display (340) does not sag in the -z-axis direction.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 7, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the driving member (520) may be moved away from the flexible display (340) so that the driving member (520) does not interfere with the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (300), a recess may be formed by the fixing member (510) and the driving member (520). For example, the recess may be formed concavely in the -z-axis direction. For example, the flexible display (340) may be at least partially placed within the recess. For example, the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340) may be at least partially located within the recess. For example, the folding part (370) may be located between the upper surface facing the +z axis of the fixed member (510) and the upper surface facing the +z axis of the driving member (520).

[0057] In the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 6, a position in which the driving member (520) supports at least a portion of the unfolded flexible display (340) may be referred to as a first position. As shown in FIG. 7, a position in which the driving member (520) moves from the first position to form a space in which the folded flexible display (340) is placed may be referred to as a second position.

[0058] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a support assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a support assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a rear view of a support assembly according to one embodiment.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the fixing member (510) may include a first fixing member (610) and a second fixing member (620). According to one embodiment, the first fixing member (610) may include a first opening (710) and a second opening (720). For example, the first opening (710) may be formed at one end of the first fixing member (610). For example, the second opening (720) may be formed at the other end opposite to the one end of the first fixing member (610). For example, the first fixing member (610) may be coupled to a hinge housing (330) through the first opening (710) and the second opening (720). For example, the first fixing member (610) can be fixed to the hinge housing (330) by a plurality of fasteners arranged to penetrate the first opening (710) and the second opening (720).

[0060] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first fixing member (610) may include at least one third opening (730) and at least one fourth opening. For example, at least one third opening (730) may be formed on one side of the first fixing member (610). For example, at least one fourth opening (740) may be formed on the other side opposite to one side of the first fixing member (610). For example, the one side and the other side of the first fixing member (610) may extend from the one end where the first opening (710) is formed and the other end where the second opening (720) is formed, and may be located between the one end and the other end. For example, the one side and the other side of the first fixing member (610) may be formed spaced apart from each other. For example, a space may be formed between the one side and the other side of the first fixing member (610).

[0061] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second fixing member (620) may include at least one fifth opening (750) and at least one sixth opening (760). For example, at least one fifth opening (750) and at least one sixth opening (760) may be formed along the edge of the second fixing member (620). For example, at least one fifth opening (750) may be formed on one side of the second fixing member (620), and at least one sixth opening (760) may be formed on the other side opposite to the one side of the second fixing member (620). For example, at least one fifth opening (750) may be formed at a position corresponding to at least one third opening (730). For example, at least one sixth opening (760) may be formed at a position corresponding to at least one fourth opening (740).

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second fixing member (620) may be coupled to the first fixing member (610). For example, one side of the second fixing member (620) may be coupled to one side of the first fixing member (610) by at least one first fastening member (810) positioned to penetrate at least one third opening (730) and at least one fifth opening (750). For example, the other side of the second fixing member (620) may be coupled to the other side of the first fixing member (610) by at least one second fastening member (820) positioned to penetrate at least one fourth opening (740) and at least one sixth opening (760).

[0063] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a driving member (520) may be disposed between a first fixed member (610) and a second fixed member (620). For example, the driving member (520) may be disposed within the space formed by the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620). For example, the driving member (520) may be configured to be movable within the space formed by the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620).

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the driving member (520) may include at least one recess. For example, at least one recess may be formed concavely to a predetermined depth in a direction parallel to the y-axis. For example, if there are multiple at least one recess, the recesses may be formed at the upper and lower portions of the driving member (520), but are not limited thereto.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable electronic device (300) may include an elastic member (630). For example, the elastic member (630) may be disposed within a recess formed in the driving member (520). For example, the elastic member (630) may be formed as a plate-shaped spring (e.g., a leaf spring). According to one embodiment, the driving member (520) may be configured to move as a whole within the space between the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620), but when the driving member (520) is composed of the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) described in detail in FIGS. 17 and 18 below, the elastic member (630) may be configured to push the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) in a direction parallel to the y-axis during the folding process of the foldable electronic device (300). For example, a driving member (520) separated into a first driving member (1210) and a second driving member (1220) by an elastic member (630) may be configured to move in the z-axis direction within the space between the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620).

[0066] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly and a support assembly of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly and a support assembly of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly (410) may include a first rotating member (910), a second rotating member (920), a first rotating arm (1010), a second rotating arm (1020), a third rotating arm (1030), and a fourth rotating arm (1040).

[0068] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the support assembly (420) may be seated in the central portion of the hinge housing (330). For example, the first rotation arm (1010) and the third rotation arm (1030) may be positioned adjacent to one side of the support assembly (420). For example, the second rotation arm (1020) and the fourth rotation arm (1040) may be positioned adjacent to the other side opposite to one side of the support assembly (420). According to one embodiment, the first rotation arm (1010) and the third rotation arm (1030) may rotate about a first rotation axis (1110). According to one embodiment, the second rotation arm (1020) and the fourth rotation arm (1040) may rotate about a second rotation axis (1120) that is substantially parallel to the first rotation axis (1110).

[0069] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first rotating member (910) may be connected to a first rotating arm (1010) and a third rotating arm (1030). For example, as the first rotating arm (1010) and the third rotating arm (1030) rotate, the first rotating member (910) may be rotated. According to one embodiment, a second rotating member (920) may be connected to a second rotating arm (1020) and a fourth rotating arm (1040). For example, as the second rotating arm (1020) and the fourth rotating arm (1040) rotate, the second rotating member (920) may be rotated.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first rotating member (910) may be coupled to a first housing (310). For example, as the first rotating member (910) is rotated, the first housing (310) may be rotated. According to one embodiment, a second rotating member (920) may be coupled to a second housing (320). For example, as the second rotating member (920) is rotated, the second housing (320) may be rotated.

[0071] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (C-C') of FIG. 11 according to one embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (E-E') of FIG. 12 according to one embodiment.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first fixing member (610) may include one side and another side opposite to the one side. According to one embodiment, the one side and the other side of the first fixing member (610) may be formed spaced apart from each other. For example, a space may be formed between the one side and the other side of the first fixing member (610) to allow the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) to move. For example, the one side and the other side of the first fixing member (610) may be connected to each other through an end where a first opening (710) and a second opening (720) are formed. For example, the one side and the other side of the first fixing member (610) may be formed integrally, but may be spaced apart by a predetermined distance with a space formed in the central part of the first fixing member (610) in between.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, one side of the first fixing member (610) may include a first upper surface (1310), a first lower surface (1330), and a first inclined surface (1350). For example, the first upper surface (1310) may be a surface facing the +z-axis direction. For example, the first lower surface (1330) may be opposite to the first upper surface (1310) and may be a surface facing the -z-axis direction. For example, the first inclined surface (1350) may be a surface formed on at least a part of the side connecting the first upper surface (1310) and the first lower surface (1330). For example, the first inclined surface (1350) may be a surface tilted at a predetermined angle with respect to the first lower surface (1330). For example, the first upper surface (1310) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110) and have a first width of a first length, and the first lower surface (1330) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110) and have a second width shorter than the first length, and the first inclined surface (1350) may be formed to be inclined to connect the first upper surface (1310) of a first width and the first lower surface (1330) of a second width.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the other side of the first fixing member (610) may include a second upper surface (1320), a second lower surface (1340), and a second inclined surface (1360). For example, the second upper surface (1320) may be a surface facing the +z-axis direction. For example, the second lower surface (1340) may be opposite to the second upper surface (1320) and may be a surface facing the -z-axis direction. For example, the second inclined surface (1360) may be a surface formed on at least a part of the side connecting the second upper surface (1320) and the second lower surface (1340). For example, the second inclined surface (1360) may be a surface tilted at a predetermined angle with respect to the second lower surface (1340). For example, the second upper surface (1320) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis (1120) and have a third width of a third length, the second lower surface (1340) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis (1120) and have a fourth width shorter than the third length, and the second inclined surface (1360) may be formed to be inclined to connect the second upper surface (1320) of the third width and the second lower surface (1340) of the fourth width.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first upper surface (1310) and the second upper surface (1320) may form a coplanar plane. For example, the distance between the first lower surface (1330) and the first upper surface (1310) may be the same as the distance between the second upper surface (1320) and the second lower surface (1340). For example, the first lower surface (1330) and the second lower surface (1340) may form a coplanar plane. According to one embodiment, the slope direction of the first inclined surface (1350) may be opposite to the slope direction of the second inclined surface (1360).

[0076] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second fixing member (620) may include an inclined portion (1400) formed on one side of the second fixing member (620) and on the other side opposite to the one side. For example, the inclined portion (1400) may be a portion protruding a predetermined distance in the +z-axis direction from the central portion of the second fixing member (620). According to one embodiment, the inclined portion (1400) may include a third inclined surface (1410), a fourth inclined surface (1420), and a seating surface (1430). For example, the seating surface (1430) may be a surface extending from the third inclined surface (1410) and the fourth inclined surface (1420) and located between the third inclined surface (1410) and the fourth inclined surface (1420). For example, the seating surface (1430) may be a surface formed in the central portion of the inclined portion (1400). For example, the third inclined surface (1410) may be formed on one side of the inclined portion (1400) and may be a surface inclined at a predetermined angle. For example, the inclination direction of the third inclined surface (1410) may correspond to the inclination direction of the first inclined surface (1350) on one side of the first fixed member (610). For example, the fourth inclined surface (1420) may be formed on the other side opposite to one side of the inclined portion (1400) and may be a surface inclined at a predetermined angle. For example, the inclination direction of the fourth inclined surface (1420) may correspond to the inclination direction of the second inclined surface (1360) on the other side of the first fixed member (610).

[0077] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first lower surface (1330) on one side of a first fixing member (610) may be at least partially disposed on one side of a second fixing member (620). According to one embodiment, a second lower surface (1340) on the other side of a first fixing member (610) may be at least partially disposed on the other side of a second fixing member (620).

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the driving member (520) may include a first driving member (1210) and a second driving member (1220). According to one embodiment, the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may be configured to be movable within a space formed by the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620). For example, the first driving member (1210) may be configured to be movable between a first inclined surface (1350) on one side of the first fixed member (610) and a third inclined surface (1410) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620). For example, the second driving member (1220) may be configured to be movable between the second inclined surface (1360) on the other side of the first fixed member (610) and the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620).

[0079] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first driving member (1210) may include a first flat portion (1510) and a first inclined portion (1530). For example, the first flat portion (1510) may be a portion formed in a flat shape that extends in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110). For example, the first flat portion (1510) may be a portion that extends in a direction parallel to the seating surface (1430) of the inclined portion (1400). For example, the first inclined portion (1530) may be a portion formed to be inclined that extends from the first flat portion (1510). For example, the first inclined portion (1530) may be a portion formed to correspond to the shape of the space formed between the first inclined surface (1350) on one side of the first fixed member (610) and the third inclined surface (1410) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620).

[0080] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second driving member (1220) may include a second flat portion (1520) and a second inclined portion (1540). For example, the second flat portion (1520) may be a portion formed in a flat shape that extends in a direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis (1120). For example, the second flat portion (1520) may be a portion that extends in a direction parallel to the seating surface (1430) of the inclined portion (1400). For example, the second inclined portion (1540) may be a portion formed to be inclined that extends from the second flat portion (1520). For example, the second inclined portion (1540) may be a portion formed to correspond to the shape of the space formed between the second inclined surface (1360) on the other side of the first fixed member (610) and the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620).

[0081] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 13, in an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device (300), a first driving member (1210), a second driving member (1220), and a first fixing member (610) can at least partially support a flexible display (340). For example, one surface of the first driving member (1210), one surface of the second driving member (1220), and the first upper surface (1310) and the second upper surface (1320) of the first fixing member (610) can together at least partially support the flexible display (340). For example, one surface of the first driving member (1210), one surface of the second driving member (1220), the first upper surface (1310) and the second upper surface (1320) of the first fixing member (610) can form a coplanar plane to support the flexible display (340). The positions of the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) shown in FIG. 13 may be referred to as the first positions.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 13, in an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device (300), a first driving member (1210) and a second driving member (1220) may be raised along an inclined portion (1400) of a second fixed member (620) to support a flexible display (340). For example, a first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) may be raised along a third inclined surface (1410) of an inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620). For example, when the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) is in contact with the third inclined surface (1410) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620), the first driving member (1210) can be raised as it slides along the third inclined surface (1410).

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 13, for example, the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) may be raised along the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620). For example, while the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) is in contact with the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620), the second driving member (1220) may be raised as the second driving member (1220) slides along the fourth inclined surface (1420).

[0084] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 13, as the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) are raised, the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may come closer to each other. For example, as the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) are raised, the first flat portion (1510) of the first driving member (1210) and the second flat portion (1520) of the second driving member (1220) may come closer to each other. For example, as the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) are raised, the side facing the +x-axis direction of the first flat portion (1510) and the side facing the -x-axis direction of the second flat portion (1520) may come closer to each other. For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the side of the first flat portion (1510) and the side of the second flat portion (1520) may be in contact.

[0085] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may be configured to move within the space formed by the first fixing member (610) and the second fixing member (620) so as not to interfere with the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340). For example, as the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340) may sag in the -z-axis direction, and the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may descend so as not to interfere with the folding portion (370) sagging in the -z-axis direction. The positions of the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) shown in FIG. 14 may be referred to as the second positions.

[0086] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may be moved away from each other. For example, the first flat portion (1510) of the first driving member (1210) and the second flat portion (1520) of the second driving member (1220) may be moved away from each other. For example, the side of the first flat portion (1510) and the side of the second flat portion (1520) facing the side of the first flat portion (1510) may be moved away from each other. For example, the first flat portion (1510) may be moved in the -x axis direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110), and the second flat portion (1520) may be moved in the +x axis direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis (1120).

[0087] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may be configured to descend while the side of the first flat portion (1510) and the side of the second flat portion (1520) are separated by a predetermined distance. For example, the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) may be configured to descend within the space between the first inclined surface (1350) on one side of the first fixed member (610) and the third inclined surface (1410) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620). For example, the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) may be configured to slide while in contact with the first inclined surface (1350) on one side of the first fixed member (610) and / or the third inclined surface (1410) of the second fixed member (620). For example, as the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) slides along the third inclined surface (1410) of the second fixed member (620), the first driving member (1210) may be configured to descend.

[0088] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14, for example, the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) may be configured to descend within the space between the second inclined surface (1360) on the other side of the first fixed member (610) and the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620). For example, the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) may be configured to slide while in contact with the second inclined surface (1360) on the other side of the first fixed member (610) and / or the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the second fixed member (620). For example, as the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) slides along the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the second fixed member (620), the second driving member (1220) may be configured to descend.

[0089] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14, in a folded state of a foldable electronic device (300), one side of a first driving member (1210) and a first fixing member (610) may form a step. For example, one side facing the +z-axis direction of the first flat portion (1510) of the first driving member (1210) and the first upper surface (1310) of one side of the first fixing member (610) may form a step. According to one embodiment, in a folded state of a foldable electronic device (300), the other side of a second driving member (1220) and a first fixing member (610) may form a step. For example, one side facing the +z-axis direction of the second flat portion (1520) of the second driving member (1220) and the second upper surface (1320) of the other side of the first fixing member (610) may form a step.

[0090] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14, in a folded state of a foldable electronic device (300), a side facing the +x direction on one side of a first fixing member (610), a side facing the +z axis direction on one side of a first driving member (1210), a side facing the +z axis direction on one side of a second driving member (1220), and a side facing the -x axis direction on the other side of the first fixing member (610) may form a recess. According to one embodiment, a flexible display (340) may be at least partially disposed within the recess. For example, a folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340) may be at least partially located within the recess.

[0091] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14, in a folded state of a foldable electronic device (300), a first driving member (1210) and a second driving member (1220) may be seated on an inclined portion (1400) of a second fixed member (620). For example, the lower surface facing the -z axis of the first flat portion (1510) of the first driving member (1210) may be seated on the seating surface (1430) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620). For example, the lower surface facing the -z axis of the second flat portion (1520) of the second driving member (1220) may be seated on the seating surface (1430) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620).

[0092] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 14, in a folded state of the foldable electronic device (300), one end of the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) may be placed on one side of the second fixed member (620). According to one embodiment, in a folded state of the foldable electronic device (300), one end of the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) may be placed on the other side of the second fixed member (620).

[0093] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, referring to FIG. 14, the first fixed member (610) may include a first curved portion (2010). For example, the first curved portion (2010) may be formed at one end of the first upper surface (1310) of the first fixed member (610). For example, the first curved portion (2010) may be formed in at least a portion between the first upper surface (1310) of the first fixed member (610) and a side extending from the first upper surface (1310). For example, the first curved portion (2010) may be formed to have a predetermined curvature. According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 14, the second fixed member (620) may include a second curved portion (2020). For example, the second curved portion (2020) may be formed at one end of the second upper surface (1320) of the second fixed member (620). For example, the second curved portion (2020) may be formed on at least a portion between the second upper surface (1320) of the second fixed member (620) and a side extending from the second upper surface (1320). For example, the first curved portion (2010) may be formed to have a predetermined curvature. According to one embodiment, the first curved portion (2010) and the second curved portion (2020) may be formed to face each other.

[0094] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a folded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first curved portion (2010) of the first fixing member (610) may be formed at a position facing one side of the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, in a folded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the second curved portion (2020) of the second fixing member (620) may be formed at a position facing the other side of the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340).

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when an impact is applied to the foldable electronic device (300) in a folded state by the first curved portion (2010) of the first fixed member (610) and the second curved portion (2020) of the second fixed member (620), the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340) may not collide with the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620).

[0096] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (D-D') of FIG. 11 according to one embodiment. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (F-F') of FIG. 12 according to one embodiment.

[0097] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first rotating arm (1010) may include a first protrusion (1610). According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 15, while the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the first protrusion (1610) of the first rotating arm (1010) may raise the first driving member (1210). For example, while the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the first protrusion (1610) of the first rotating arm (1010) may lift the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210). For example, as the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) is lifted by the first protrusion (1610) of the first rotating arm (1010), the first inclined portion (1530) may be raised along the first inclined surface (1350) on one side of the first fixed member (610) and / or the third inclined surface (1410) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620). For example, as the first inclined portion (1530) is raised, the first driving member (1210) may be raised.

[0098] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second rotating arm (1020) may include a second protrusion (1620). According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 15, while the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the second protrusion (1620) of the second rotating arm (1020) may raise the second driving member (1220). For example, while the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the second protrusion (1620) of the second rotating arm (1020) may lift the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220). For example, as the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) is lifted by the second protrusion (1620) of the second rotating arm (1020), the second inclined portion (1540) may be raised along the second inclined surface (1360) on the other side of the first fixed member (610) and / or the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the inclined portion (1400) of the second fixed member (620). For example, as the second inclined portion (1540) is raised, the second driving member (1220) may be raised.

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the first driving member (1210) is lifted by the first rotating arm (1010) and the second driving member (1220) is lifted by the second rotating arm (1020), so that the side facing the +x-axis direction of the first driving member (1210) and the side facing the -x-axis direction of the second driving member (1220) may come closer together. For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the side of the first driving member (1210) and the side of the second driving member (1220) may come into contact.

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 15, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first rotating arm (1010) can support the first driving member (1210) so that the first driving member (1210) does not descend. For example, the first protrusion (1610) of the first rotating arm (1010) can support one end of the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210). According to one embodiment, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the second rotating arm (1020) can support the second driving member (1220) so that the second driving member (1220) does not descend. For example, the second protrusion (1620) of the second rotating arm (1020) can support one end of the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220).

[0101] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 15, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) are supported by the first rotating arm (1010) and the second rotating arm (1020), so that the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) do not descend and can flatly support the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340).

[0102] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 16, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the first protrusion (1610) may be rotated together with the first rotating arm (1010). As the first protrusion (1610) is rotated, the first driving member (1210) may not be supported by the first protrusion (1610). For example, as the first driving member (1210) is not supported by the first protrusion (1610), the first driving member (1210) may descend. According to one embodiment, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the second protrusion (1620) may be rotated together with the second rotating arm (1020). As the second protrusion (1620) is rotated, the second driving member (1220) may not be supported by the second protrusion (1620). For example, as the second driving member (1220) is not supported by the second protrusion (1620), the second driving member (1220) can descend.

[0103] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 16, as the first driving member (1210) is not supported by the first protrusion (1610) and the second driving member (1220) is not supported by the second protrusion (1620), the first flat portion (1510) of the first driving member (1210) and the second flat portion (1520) of the second driving member (1220) may be separated from each other along a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110) and the second rotation axis (1120). For example, as the first driving member (1210) is not supported by the first protrusion (1610) and the second driving member (1220) is not supported by the second protrusion (1620), the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) can be moved in a direction such that the side facing the +x-axis direction of the first flat portion (1510) of the first driving member (1210) and the side facing the -x-axis direction of the second flat portion (1520) of the second driving member (1220) move away from each other.

[0104] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 16, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, if the first flat portion (1510) of the first driving member (1210) and the second flat portion (1520) of the second driving member (1220) are moved away from each other, the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) slides along the third inclined surface (1410) of the second fixed member (620), and the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) slides along the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the second fixed member (620). For example, as the first inclined portion (1530) of the first driving member (1210) slides along the third inclined surface (1410) of the second fixed member (620) and the second inclined portion (1540) of the second driving member (1220) slides along the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the second fixed member (620), the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) can descend.

[0105] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (G-G') of FIG. 11 according to one embodiment. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section (H-H') of FIG. 12 according to one embodiment.

[0106] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable electronic device (300) may further include an elastic member (1720). For example, referring to FIG. 17, the elastic member (1720) may be disposed at the upper and / or lower portions of the support assembly (420), but is not limited thereto. For example, the elastic member (1720) may be disposed between the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) of the support assembly (420).

[0107] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, referring to FIG. 17, a recess (1710) may be formed in a first driving member (1210) and / or a second driving member (1220). For example, the recess (1710) may be formed concavely in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110) and the second rotation axis (1120). For example, referring to FIG. 17, the recess (1710) may be formed concavely in the -x-axis direction at the upper end of the first driving member (1210). For example, the recess (1710) may be formed concavely in the +x-axis direction at the lower end of the second driving member (1220). According to one embodiment, an elastic member (1720) may be disposed within the recess (1710). For example, an elastic member (1720) may be disposed within a recess (1710) formed at the upper end of the first driving member (1210). For example, an elastic member (1720) may be disposed within a recess (1710) formed at the lower end of the second driving member (1220).

[0108] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to the cross-section (G-G') of FIG. 17, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the elastic member (1720) may be positioned between the recess (1710) of the first driving member (1210) and the side of the second driving member (1220). For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the side of the first driving member (1210) and the side of the second driving member (1220) may be positioned to face each other, so that the elastic member (1720) may be positioned in a compressed state between the recess (1710) of the first driving member (1210) and the side of the second driving member (1220).

[0109] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 17, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the compressed elastic member (1720) can apply an elastic force to the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110) and the second rotation axis (1120). For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the elastic member (1720) can apply an elastic force to the first driving member (1210) in the -x axis direction. For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the elastic member (1720) can apply an elastic force to the second driving member (1220) in the +x axis direction.

[0110] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 17, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), even if the elastic member (1720) applies elastic force to the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220), the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) are supported by the first rotating arm (1010) and the second rotating arm (1020), respectively, so they may not move in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110) and the second rotation axis (1120). Since the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) do not move, the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may not descend.

[0111] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 18, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the first rotating arm (1010) and the second rotating arm (1020) are rotated so that the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) are not supported by the first rotating arm (1010) and the second rotating arm (1020), respectively, and thus the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) can be moved by the elastic force of the elastic member (1720). For example, the first driving member (1210) can be moved in the -x-axis direction by the elastic force of the elastic member (1720). For example, the second driving member (1220) can be moved in the +x-axis direction by the elastic force of the elastic member (1720). For example, the side of the first driving member (1210) and the side of the second driving member (1220) can be moved apart by the elastic force of the elastic member (1720).

[0112] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 18, as the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) are moved in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis (1110) and the second rotation axis (1120) by the elastic force of the elastic member (1720), the elastic member (1720) can be restored to its shape before compression. For example, the elastic member (1720) restored to its shape before compression can be located between the recess (1710) of the first driving member (1210) and the side of the second driving member (1220).

[0113] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 18, a first driving member (1210) and a second driving member (1220), which are moved along the x-axis direction by an elastic member (1720), can descend. For example, the first driving member (1210) can descend as the first inclined portion (1530) slides along the third inclined surface (1410) of the second fixed member (620). For example, the second driving member (1220) can descend as the second inclined portion (1540) slides along the fourth inclined surface (1420) of the second fixed member (620).

[0114] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a first driving member formed of an elastic material according to one embodiment. FIG. 20 is a front view of a first driving member formed of an elastic material in an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 21 is a front view of a first driving member formed of an elastic material in a folded state of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0115] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, although only the first driving member (1210) is shown in FIGS. 19 to 21, the second driving member (1220) may also be formed in the same shape as the first driving member (1210) of FIGS. 19 to 21.

[0116] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first driving member (1210) may be formed of an elastic material. According to one embodiment, the first driving member (1210) may include an upper portion (1810), a lower portion (1820), and a protrusion (1830) formed between the upper portion (1810) and the lower portion (1820). For example, the upper portion (1810) and the lower portion (1820) of the first driving member (1210) may be portions extending from the protrusion (1830) in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis (1110) and the second rotation axis (1120). For example, the upper portion (1810) and the lower portion (1820) of the first driving member (1210) may be portions extending in the y-axis direction. For example, the upper portion (1810) and lower portion (1820) of the first driving member (1210) may be parts extended in the longitudinal direction of the first driving member (1210). For example, a protrusion (1830) may be formed at the location where the elastic member (1720) of FIGS. 17 and 18 is positioned. For example, the protrusion (1830) may be formed on one side of the first driving member (1210). For example, one side of the first driving member (1210) may be a part adjacent to the second driving member (1220). For example, the side of one side of the first driving member (1210) may face the +x-axis direction and may be a surface facing the side of one side of the second driving member (1220).

[0117] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first driving member (1210) may include an opening (1840). For example, the opening (1840) may be formed between one side of the first driving member (1210) and the other side opposite to said one side. For example, the opening (1840) may be formed to penetrate one side facing the +x-axis direction of the first driving member (1210) and the other side opposite to said one side. For example, the opening (1840) may be formed between a protrusion (1830) and the other side of the first driving member (1210).

[0118] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, referring to FIG. 20, for example, as the foldable electronic device (300) unfolds, the protrusion (1830) of the first driving member (1210) may come into contact with the side of one side of the second driving member (1220). For example, as the foldable electronic device (300) unfolds, the protrusion (1830) of the first driving member (1210) may be compressed by the side of one side of the second driving member (1220). For example, as the protrusion (1830) of the first driving member (1210) is compressed, the protrusion (1830) may be moved in the -x axis direction. For example, as the protrusion (1830) is moved in the -x axis direction, the protrusion (1830) may be positioned at the location of the opening (1840).

[0119] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 20, as the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) come into contact, the compressed protrusion (1830) can apply elastic force to the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220). For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the protrusion (1830) can apply elastic force to the first driving member (1210) in the -x axis direction and elastic force to the second driving member (1220) in the +x axis direction.

[0120] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 21, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the protrusion (1830) may be restored to its position before being compressed. For example, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, as the protrusion (1830) is restored, the protrusion (1830) may push the second driving member (1220). For example, due to the repulsive force of the force with which the protrusion (1830) pushes the second driving member (1220), the first driving member (1210) may be moved away from the second driving member (1220).

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 19 to 21 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may be moved away from each other by the protrusion (1830) of the first driving member (1210). According to one embodiment, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the first driving member (1210) and the second driving member (1220) may be moved closer to each other by the first rotating arm (1010) and the second rotating arm (1020).

[0122] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device including a magnetic material according to one embodiment. FIG. 23 is a drawing illustrating a folded state of a foldable electronic device including a magnetic material according to one embodiment.

[0123] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 22, the driving member (520) may include a first magnetic body (1910) (e.g., a first magnet) and a second magnetic body (1920) (e.g., a second magnet). For example, the first magnetic body (1910) may be disposed on one side of the driving member (520). For example, the first magnetic body (1910) may be attached to a surface facing the -z-axis direction of the end of one side of the driving member (520). For example, the second magnetic body (1920) may be disposed on the other side opposite to the one side of the driving member (520). For example, the second magnetic body (1920) may be attached to a surface facing the -z-axis direction of the end of the other side of the driving member (520).

[0124] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 22, the second fixing member (620) may include a third magnetic body (1930) (e.g., a third magnet) and a fourth magnetic body (1940) (e.g., a fourth magnet). For example, the third magnetic body (1930) may be disposed on one side of the second fixing member (620). For example, the third magnetic body (1930) may be disposed on one side of a surface facing the +z-axis direction of the second fixing member (620). For example, the fourth magnetic body (1940) may be disposed on the other side opposite to the one side of the surface facing the +z-axis direction of the second fixing member (620).

[0125] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIGS. 22 and 23, a third magnetic body (1930) may be positioned at a location corresponding to a first magnetic body (1910). For example, the third magnetic body (1930) and the first magnetic body (1910) may be positioned to face each other. According to one embodiment, a fourth magnetic body (1940) may be positioned at a location corresponding to a second magnetic body (1920). For example, the fourth magnetic body (1940) and the second magnetic body (1920) may be positioned to face each other.

[0126] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the third magnetic body (1930) may be formed to have a polarity opposite to that of the first magnetic body (1910). For example, when the distance between the first magnetic body (1910) and the third magnetic body (1930) is within a predetermined distance, an attractive force may be generated between the first magnetic body (1910) and the third magnetic body (1930) so that the first magnetic body (1910) approaches the third magnetic body (1930). For example, the first magnetic body (1910) may be attached to the third magnetic body (1930) by the attractive force between the first magnetic body (1910) and the third magnetic body (1930). According to one embodiment, the fourth magnetic body (1940) may be formed to have a polarity opposite to that of the second magnetic body (1920). For example, if the distance between the second magnetic body (1920) and the fourth magnetic body (1940) is within a predetermined distance, an attractive force may be generated between the second magnetic body (1920) and the fourth magnetic body (1940) so that the second magnetic body (1920) approaches the fourth magnetic body (1940). For example, the second magnetic body (1920) may be attached to the fourth magnetic body (1940) by the attractive force between the second magnetic body (1920) and the fourth magnetic body (1940).

[0127] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 22, the driving member (520) may be configured to move within the space between the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620). For example, the driving member (520) may be configured to rise or fall within the space between the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620). For example, the shape of the space formed by the first fixed member (610) and the second fixed member (620) may be formed to correspond to the shape of the driving member (520). The position of the driving member (520) shown in FIG. 22 may be referred to as the first position.

[0128] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 22, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the driving member (520) is raised so that the first fixing member (610) and the driving member (520) can support the flexible display (340). For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the driving member (520) supports the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340), and the first fixing member (610) can support the flat portion (360) of the flexible display (340).

[0129] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 23, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the driving member (520) may descend and be placed on the second fixed member (620). For example, when the foldable electronic device (300) is in a folded state, the driving member (520) may be more firmly seated on the second fixed member (620) by the attractive force between the first magnetic body (1910) and the third magnetic body (1930) and the attractive force between the second magnetic body (1920) and the fourth magnetic body (1940). The position of the driving member (520) shown in FIG. 23 may be referred to as the second position.

[0130] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIG. 23, when the foldable electronic device (300) is in a folded state, one surface of the driving member (520) facing the +z-axis direction may form a step with one surface of the first fixing member (610) facing the +z-axis direction. According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (300) is in a folded state, a side extending from the one surface of the first fixing member (610) and perpendicular to the one surface and one surface of the driving member (520) may form a recess. According to one embodiment, the folding portion (370) of the flexible display (340) may be disposed within the recess.

[0131] FIG. 24 is a block diagram of an electronic device (2401) in a network environment (2400) according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 24, in the network environment (2400), the electronic device (2401) may communicate with an electronic device (2402) through a first network (2498) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (2404) or a server (2408) through a second network (2499) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (2401) may communicate with the electronic device (2404) through a server (2408). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (2401) may include a processor (2420), memory (2430), input module (2450), sound output module (2455), display module (2460), audio module (2470), sensor module (2476), interface (2477), connection terminal (2478), haptic module (2479), camera module (2480), power management module (2488), battery (2489), communication module (2490), subscriber identification module (2496), or antenna module (2497). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (2478)) may be omitted from the electronic device (2401), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (2476), camera module (2480), or antenna module (2497)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (2460)).

[0132] The processor (2420) can, for example, execute software (e.g., program (2440)) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (2401) connected to the processor (2420) and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (2420) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (2476) or communication module (2490)) in volatile memory (2432), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (2432), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (2434). According to one embodiment, the processor (2420) may include a main processor (2421) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (2423) 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 (2401) includes a main processor (2421) and an auxiliary processor (2423), the auxiliary processor (2423) may be configured to use lower power than the main processor (2421) or to be specialized for a specified function. The auxiliary processor (2423) may be implemented separately from the main processor (2421) or as part thereof.

[0133] The auxiliary processor (2423) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (2401) (e.g., display module (2460), sensor module (2476), or communication module (2490)) on behalf of the main processor (2421) while the main processor (2421) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (2421) while the main processor (2421) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (2423) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (2480) or communication module (2490)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (2423) (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 (2401) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (2408)). 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.

[0134] The memory (2430) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (2401) (e.g., processor (2420) or sensor module (2476)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (2440)) and related commands. The memory (2430) may include volatile memory (2432) or non-volatile memory (2434).

[0135] The program (2440) may be stored as software in memory (2430) and may include, for example, an operating system (2442), middleware (2444), or an application (2446).

[0136] The input module (2450) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (2401) (e.g., processor (2420)) from outside the electronic device (2401) (e.g., user). The input module (2450) 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).

[0137] The sound output module (2455) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (2401). The sound output module (2455) 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.

[0138] The display module (2460) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (2401). The display module (2460) 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 (2460) 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.

[0139] The audio module (2470) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (2470) can acquire sound through the input module (2450) or output sound through the sound output module (2455) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (2402)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (2401).

[0140] The sensor module (2476) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (2401) (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 (2476) 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.

[0141] The interface (2477) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (2401) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (2402)). According to one embodiment, the interface (2477) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0142] The connection terminal (2478) may include a connector through which the electronic device (2401) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (2402)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (2478) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0143] The haptic module (2479) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (2479) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0144] The camera module (2480) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (2480) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0145] The power management module (2488) can manage the power supplied to the electronic device (2401). According to one embodiment, the power management module (2488) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0146] The battery (2489) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (2401). According to one embodiment, the battery (2489) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0147] The communication module (2490) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (2401) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (2402), electronic device (2404), or server (2408)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (2490) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (2420) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (2490) may include a wireless communication module (2492) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (2494) (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 (2404) via a first network (2498) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (2499) (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 (2492) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (2401) within a communication network such as the first network (2498) or the second network (2499) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (2496).

[0148] The wireless communication module (2492) 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 (2492) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (2492) 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 (2492) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (2401), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (2404)), or network system (e.g., second network (2499)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (2492) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, 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 realizing URLLC.

[0149] An antenna module (2497) 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 (2497) 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 (2497) 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 (2498) or a second network (2499), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (2490). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (2490) 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 (2497).

[0150] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (2497) 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (2401) and an external electronic device (2404) through a server (2408) connected to a second network (2499). Each of the external electronic devices (2402, or 2404) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (2401). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (2401) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (2402, 2404, or 2408). For example, if the electronic device (2401) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (2401) 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 (2401). The electronic device (2401) 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 (2401) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (2404) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (2408) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (2404) or server (2408) may be included within the second network (2499). The electronic device (2401) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0153] The problem to be solved according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be as follows.

[0154] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may be provided that includes a support assembly that supports a flexible display that is folded or unfolded during the folding process of the foldable electronic device.

[0155] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may be provided that includes a driving member that rises to support a flexible display in an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device and descends so as not to interfere with the flexible display in a folded state of the foldable electronic device.

[0156] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly that is at least partially disposed within the hinge housing and rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display that spans the hinge assembly and is at least partially disposed within the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a support assembly that supports the flexible display at least partially. The support assembly may include a first fixing member coupled to the hinge housing. The support assembly may include a second fixing member coupled to the first fixing member. The support assembly may include a driving member configured to be movable within the space between the first fixing member and the second fixing member. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the driving member is positioned at a first position, and one side of the first fixed member and one side of the driving member can at least partially support the flexible display. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the driving member is positioned at a first position, and one side of the first fixed member and one side of the driving member can form substantially the same plane. When the foldable electronic device is folded, the driving member is positioned at a second position moved from the first position, and one side of the driving member can form a step with one side of the first fixed member.The term "substantially identical plane" means that one side of the first fixed member and one side of the driving member are arranged such that the average deviation from the common plane is less than 10% of the maximum height (z direction) of the first fixed member, more preferably less than 5%, even more preferably less than 2%, and at most less than 0%, that is, they are arranged on the same plane without any deviation from the common plane.

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the driving member may include a first driving member and a second driving member. The second fixed member may include an inclined portion. While the foldable electronic device is being folded, the first driving member may move along a first inclined surface of the inclined portion, and the second driving member may move along a second inclined surface of the inclined portion. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first inclined surface may be configured to guide the movement of the first driving member, and the second inclined surface may be configured to guide the movement of the second driving member while the foldable electronic device is being folded or unfolded.

[0158] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, as one side of the first driving member and one side of the second driving member facing the one side of the first driving member are moved away from each other, the first driving member moves along the first inclined surface of the inclined portion, and the second driving member can move along the second inclined surface of the inclined portion.

[0159] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while a foldable electronic device is unfolded, as one side of a first driving member and one side of a second driving member facing the first driving member move toward each other, the first driving member can move along a first inclined surface of an inclined portion and the second driving member can move along a second inclined surface of an inclined portion, and accordingly, the first driving member and the second driving member can move toward a flexible display.

[0160] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the inclined portion of the second fixing member may include a seating surface formed between the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first driving member and the second driving member may be disposed on the seating surface.

[0161] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly may include a first rotation arm that is coupled to the first housing and rotates about a first rotation axis. The hinge assembly may include a second rotation arm that is coupled to the second housing and rotates about a second rotation axis parallel to the first rotation axis. While the foldable electronic device is unfolded, a first protrusion of the first rotation arm may lift a first driving member in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis. While the foldable electronic device is unfolded, a second protrusion of the second rotation arm may lift a second driving member in a direction perpendicular to the second rotation axis. This can ensure the stability of the hinge assembly in the unfolded state.

[0162] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the hinge assembly may include a first rotational arm coupled to a first housing and rotatably oriented around a first rotational axis. Additionally, the hinge assembly may include a second rotational arm coupled to a second housing and rotatably oriented around a second rotational axis parallel to the first rotational axis. While the foldable electronic device is unfolded, a first protrusion of the first rotational arm may lift a first driving member in an upward direction perpendicular to both the first rotational axis and the second rotational axis. Additionally, while the foldable electronic device is unfolded, a second protrusion of the second rotational arm may lift a second driving member in the upward direction.

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the first driving member may be moved along the first inclined surface as the first driving member is lifted by the first protrusion. While the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the second driving member may be moved along the second inclined surface as the second driving member is lifted by the second protrusion. While the foldable electronic device is unfolded, as the first driving member moves along the first inclined surface and the second driving member moves along the second inclined surface, the one surface of the first driving member and the one surface of the second driving member may come closer to each other. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the one surface of the first driving member and the one surface of the second driving member may be arranged to be in contact with each other when the foldable electronic device is unfolded.

[0164] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, the first protrusion of the first rotating arm supports the first driving member, and the second protrusion of the second rotating arm supports the second driving member. This can protect the flexible display from external pressure and / or impact.

[0165] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, the first driving member moves in a first direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis, and the second driving member can move in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0166] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an elastic member disposed between the first driving member and the second driving member may be further included. While the foldable electronic device is being folded, the first driving member may be moved in the first direction and the second driving member may be moved in the second direction by the elastic force of the elastic member. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the elastic member and / or the second elastic member may be formed as a plate-shaped spring (e.g., a plate spring). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, the elastic member may be configured to move the first driving member and the second driving member in a direction away from the flexible display, wherein the direction away from the flexible display is a direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis, the second rotation axis, and the first direction and the second direction. The direction away from the flexible display is opposite to the upward direction. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the elastic member may be configured to move the first driving member away from the second driving member so as to separate the first driving member from the second driving member. The first direction is perpendicular to the upward direction, the direction away from the flexible display, the first rotation axis, and the second rotation axis.

[0167] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a second elastic member disposed between a first driving member and a second driving member may be further included. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first driving member may be moved in a first direction by the elastic force of the second elastic member, and the second driving member may be moved in a second direction.

[0168] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first driving member may include a recess formed in the first direction. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the elastic member may be disposed between the second driving member and the recess.

[0169] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second driving member may include a recess formed in a second direction. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the second elastic member may be disposed between the second driving member and the recess formed in the second direction.

[0170] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the elastic member may be compressed in a first direction while in contact with a second driving member. Additionally, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the elastic member may be compressed in a first direction while in contact with a second driving member, and at this time, the elastic member may not be compressed in an upward direction or in a direction separated from the flexible display. Therefore, the stroke of the elastic member may not affect the thickness of the foldable electronic device. In the prior art, implementation in the thickness direction is limited due to the skew of the driving system, making it difficult to implement an ultra-slim hinge structure. The present invention can solve this by using the elastic member according to the present invention.

[0171] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first driving member may be formed of an elastic material and may include a protrusion protruding in the second direction. While the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the protrusion of the first driving member may be compressed toward the first direction while in contact with the second driving member.

[0172] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second driving member may be formed of an elastic material and include a protrusion that protrudes in a first direction. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the protrusion of the second driving member may be compressed in a second direction while in contact with the first driving member.

[0173] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first driving member may be formed of an elastic material and include a protrusion that protrudes in a second direction, and the second driving member may be formed of an elastic material and include a protrusion that protrudes in a first direction.

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first driving member may include an opening formed at a position adjacent to the protrusion of the first driving member, penetrating one surface of the first driving member. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the protrusion of the first driving member may be located at the position where the opening is formed.

[0175] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second driving member may include an opening formed at a position adjacent to a protrusion of the second driving member that penetrates one surface of the second driving member. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the protrusion of the second driving member may be positioned at the location where the opening is formed.

[0176] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, the first driving member may be moved in the first direction and the second driving member may be moved in the second direction by the elastic force of the protrusion of the first driving member.

[0177] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first driving member can be moved in a first direction by the elastic force of the protrusion of the second driving member, and the second driving member can be moved in a second direction.

[0178] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second fixing member may include a first magnetic body disposed on one side of the second fixing member and a second magnetic body disposed on the other side of the second fixing member opposite to the one side. The driving member may include a third magnetic body disposed on one side of the driving member and having a polarity opposite to that of the first magnetic body, and a fourth magnetic body disposed on the other side of the driving member opposite to the one side and having a polarity opposite to that of the second magnetic body. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the one side of the driving member may be positioned adjacent to the one side of the second fixing member by means of an attractive force between the first magnetic body and the third magnetic body, and the other side of the driving member may be positioned adjacent to the other side of the second fixing member by means of an attractive force between the second magnetic body and the fourth magnetic body. This can prevent the display from being pressed or scratched by forming a space and curvature around the display banding.

[0179] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the folding portion of the flexible display may be at least partially disposed between the one surface of the first fixing member and the one surface of the driving member. This forms a space and curvature around the display bending, thereby preventing the display from being pressed or scratched.

[0180] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the end of the surface of the first fixing member facing one side of the folding portion of the flexible display may be formed to have a predetermined curvature. This may also prevent the flexible display from being damaged by contact such as stabbing and / or puncturing.

[0181] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the folding portion of the flexible display may be at least partially disposed in the recess formed by the step and the one surface of the driving member.

[0182] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is folded or unfolded, the first fixing member and the second fixing member may not move. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is folded or unfolded, only the driving member among the elements constituting the support assembly may move.

[0183] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly that is at least partially disposed within the hinge housing and rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display that spans the hinge assembly and is at least partially disposed within the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a support assembly that supports the flexible display at least partially. The support assembly may include a first fixing member coupled to the hinge housing. The support assembly may include a second fixing member coupled to the first fixing member. The support assembly may include a driving member configured to be movable within the space between the first fixing member and the second fixing member. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, as the driving member rises, one side of the driving member may support a folding portion of the flexible display. When the above foldable electronic device is in a folded state, as the driving member descends, the folding portion of the flexible display may be at least partially located within the recess formed by the side of the first fixed member and the one surface of the driving member.

[0184] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the driving member may include a first driving member and a second driving member. The second fixing member may include an inclined portion. While the foldable electronic device is being folded, the first driving member moves along a first inclined surface of the inclined portion, and the second driving member may move along a second inclined surface of the inclined portion.

[0185] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, as one side of the first driving member and one side of the second driving member facing the one side of the first driving member are moved away from each other, the first driving member moves along the first inclined surface of the inclined portion, and the second driving member can move along the second inclined surface of the inclined portion.

[0186] The effects of the invention according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are as follows.

[0187] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device can be provided in which only the driving member of a support assembly supporting a flexible display of a foldable electronic device is configured to rise or fall, thereby efficiently utilizing the space between the flexible display and the hinge housing. Specifically, by designing the driving member to move in a direction away from the flexible display without securing space between the support assembly and the flexible display, the support assembly can effectively utilize the narrow space of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device. The fixing members can stabilize the structure and guide the movement of the driving member.

[0188] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a support assembly may be provided in which a driving member supports the folding portion of a flexible display when the foldable electronic device is unfolded, and the driving member descends so as not to interfere with the folding portion of the flexible display when the foldable electronic device is folded.

[0189] In addition, various effects identified directly or indirectly through the present disclosure may be provided.

[0190] Methods according to the claims or embodiments described in the specification of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0191] When implemented in software, a computer-readable storage medium may be provided for storing one or more programs (software modules). One or more programs stored in the computer-readable storage medium are configured for execution by one or more processors within an electronic device. One or more programs include instructions that cause the electronic device to execute methods according to the claims or embodiments described in the specification of this disclosure.

[0192] Such programs (software modules, software) may be stored in random access memory, non-volatile memory including flash memory, ROM (read-only memory), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic disc storage devices, compact disc-ROMs (CD-ROMs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), or other forms of optical storage devices, magnetic cassettes. Alternatively, they may be stored in memory composed of some or all of these. Additionally, each constituent memory may include multiple units.

[0193] Additionally, the above program may be stored on an attachable storage device that can be accessed via a communication network such as the Internet, Intranet, LAN (local area network), WLAN (wide LAN), or SAN (storage area network), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure through an external port. Additionally, a separate storage device on a communication network may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] In the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above, the components included in the disclosure are expressed in a singular or plural form according to the specific embodiments presented. However, the singular or plural expression is selected to suit the situation presented for convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited to singular or plural components; even if a component is expressed in the plural form, it may be composed of a singular form, and even if a component is expressed in the singular form, it may be composed of a plural form.

[0195] Additionally, in the present disclosure, terms such as “part,” “module,” etc. may be a hardware component, such as a processor or circuit, and / or a software component executed by a hardware component, such as a processor.

[0196] "Parts" and "modules" may be implemented by a program that is stored on an addressable storage medium and can be executed by a processor. For example, "parts" and "modules" may be implemented by components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, as well as by processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables.

[0197] The specific embodiments described in this disclosure are merely examples and do not limit the scope of this disclosure in any way. For the sake of brevity, descriptions of prior electronic configurations, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of said systems may be omitted.

[0198] Additionally, in the present disclosure, “comprising at least one of a, b, or c” may mean “comprising only a, comprising only b, comprising only c, comprising a and b, comprising b and c, comprising a and c, or comprising all of a, b, and c.”

[0199] Meanwhile, although specific embodiments have been described in the detailed description of the present disclosure, it is understood that various modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined by the claims set forth below as well as equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device, A foldable housing comprising a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge housing; A hinge assembly disposed at least partially within the hinge housing and rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; A flexible display supported by the above hinge assembly; and It includes a supporting assembly that supports the flexible display at least partially, and The above support assembly is: A first fixing member coupled to the hinge housing; A second fixing member coupled to the first fixing member; and It includes a moving member configured to be movable within the space between the first fixed member and the second fixed member, and When the above-described foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state, the driving member is positioned at a first position, and one surface of the first fixing member and one surface of the driving member form substantially the same surface, and A foldable electronic device in which, when the above foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the driving member is positioned at a second position moved from the first position, and the one surface of the driving member forms a step with the one surface of the first fixing member.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above driving member includes a first driving member and a second driving member, and The above-mentioned second fixing member includes an inclined portion, and A foldable electronic device configured such that, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, the foldable electronic device moves the first driving member along the first inclined surface of the inclined portion and moves the second driving member along the second inclined surface of the inclined portion.

3. In Paragraph 2, While the above-mentioned foldable electronic device is being folded, the above-mentioned foldable electronic device: A foldable electronic device configured such that, as one side of the first driving member and one side of the second driving member facing the one side of the first driving member are moved in a direction away from each other, the first driving member is moved along the first inclined surface of the inclined portion and the second driving member is moved along the second inclined surface of the inclined portion.

4. In Paragraph 2, The inclined portion of the second fixed member includes a seating surface formed between the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface, and A foldable electronic device in which, when the above foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first driving member and the second driving member are disposed on the seating surface.

5. In Paragraph 2, The above hinge assembly is: A first rotating arm coupled to the first housing and rotatable about a first rotation axis; and It includes a second rotation arm coupled to the second housing and rotatable about a second rotation axis parallel to the first rotation axis, and While the above-mentioned foldable electronic device is unfolded: The first protrusion of the first rotating arm is configured to lift the first driving member in an upward direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis, and A foldable electronic device in which the second protrusion of the second rotating arm is configured to lift the second driving member in the upward direction.

6. In Paragraph 5, While the above-mentioned foldable electronic device is unfolded: The above-mentioned foldable electronic device is, As the first driving member is lifted by the first protrusion, the first driving member is moved along the first inclined surface, and As the second driving member is lifted by the second protrusion, the second driving member is moved along the second inclined surface, and A foldable electronic device configured to move the one surface of the first driving member and the one surface of the second driving member toward each other as the first driving member moves along the first inclined surface and the second driving member moves along the second inclined surface.

7. In Paragraph 5, A foldable electronic device in which, when the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the first protrusion of the first rotating arm is configured to support the first driving member, and the second protrusion of the second rotating arm is configured to support the second driving member.

8. In Paragraph 5, A foldable electronic device configured such that, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, the foldable electronic device moves the first driving member in a first direction perpendicular to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis, and moves the second driving member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

9. In Paragraph 8, It further includes an elastic member disposed between the first driving member and the second driving member, A foldable electronic device configured such that, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, the foldable electronic device moves the first driving member in the first direction and moves the second driving member in the second direction by means of the elastic force of the elastic member.

10. In Paragraph 9, The first driving member includes a recess formed in the first direction, and A foldable electronic device in which, when the above foldable electronic device is unfolded, the elastic member is disposed between the second driving member and the recess.

11. In Paragraph 8, The first driving member is formed of an elastic material and includes a protrusion protruding in the second direction, A foldable electronic device configured such that, while the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the foldable electronic device compresses the protrusion of the first driving member toward the first direction while the protrusion is in contact with the second driving member.

12. In Paragraph 11, The first driving member penetrates one surface of the first driving member and includes an opening formed at a position adjacent to the protrusion of the first driving member, A foldable electronic device in which, when the above foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the protrusion of the first driving member is located at the position where the opening is formed.

13. In Paragraph 11, A foldable electronic device configured such that, while the foldable electronic device is being folded, the foldable electronic device moves the first driving member in the first direction and moves the second driving member in the second direction by means of the elastic force of the protrusion of the first driving member.

14. In Paragraph 1, The second fixing member comprises a first magnetic body disposed on one side of the second fixing member and a second magnetic body disposed on the other side of the second fixing member opposite to the one side. The driving member comprises a third magnetic body disposed on one side of the driving member and having a polarity opposite to that of the first magnetic body, and a fourth magnetic body disposed on the other side opposite to the one side of the driving member and having a polarity opposite to that of the second magnetic body. When the above foldable electronic device is in a folded state: Due to the attractive force between the first magnetic body and the third magnetic body, the one side of the driving member is positioned adjacent to the one side of the second fixed member, and A foldable electronic device in which the other side of the driving member is positioned adjacent to the other side of the second fixed member by means of the attractive force between the second magnetic body and the fourth magnetic body.

15. In a foldable electronic device, A foldable housing comprising a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge housing; A hinge assembly disposed at least partially within the hinge housing and rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; A flexible display that spans the hinge assembly and is at least partially disposed within the first housing and the second housing; and It includes a supporting assembly that supports the flexible display at least partially, and The above support assembly is: A first fixing member coupled to the hinge housing; A second fixing member coupled to the first fixing member; and It includes a moving member configured to be movable within the space between the first fixed member and the second fixed member, and In the unfolded state of the above-described foldable electronic device, as the driving member rises, one side of the driving member forms substantially the same surface, and A foldable electronic device in which, when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the folding portion of the flexible display is at least partially located within a recess formed by the side of the first fixed member and the one surface of the driving member as the driving member descends.

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