Foldable electronic device comprising hinge housing

Abstract

Disclosed is an electronic device comprising: a first housing (110); a housing (120); a hinge housing (150) in which at least one hinge assembly is seated; and a cap member (170) coupled to one end of a longitudinal direction of the hinge housing, wherein the hinge housing comprises: a first region (152_r1) coupled to the cap member; a second region (152_r2) in which a first portion of the cap member is seated; a third region (152_r3) in which a second portion of the cap member is seated; a first partition wall (153_w1) disposed between the first region and the second region; and a second partition wall (153_w2) disposed between the first region and the third region, the first partition wall and the second partition wall being at least partially surrounded by the cap member and engaged with the cap member. Various other embodiments understood through the specification are also possible.

Description

Foldable electronic device including a hinge housing

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this document relate to a foldable electronic device comprising a hinge housing.

[0002] The electronic device must be able to provide a large screen when in use for convenience of operation and viewing, and its size may be reduced by folding, etc., when not in use for easy portability. As an example, the electronic device may include two housings configured to be foldable via a hinge assembly for easy portability. The electronic device may include a flexible display to provide a large screen when unfolded. The electronic device may include a hinge housing that surrounds at least a portion of the hinge assembly so that the hinge assembly is not exposed to the outside when in a folded state.

[0003] 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 in relation to the present disclosure.

[0004] An electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in this document may include a first housing (110) coupled to one side of at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2), a second housing (120) coupled to the other side of the at least one hinge assembly, a hinge housing (150) on which the at least one hinge assembly is seated, and a cap member (170) coupled to one end in the longitudinal direction of the hinge housing. The hinge housing may include a first region (152_r1) coupled to the cap member, a second region (152_r2) on which a first part of the cap member is seated, a third region (152_r3) on which a second part of the cap member is seated, a first partition (153_w1) disposed between the first region and the second region, and a second partition (153_w2) disposed between the first region and the third region. The first bulkhead and the second bulkhead are at least partially surrounded by the cap member and can be engaged with the cap member.

[0005] An electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in this document may include a first housing (110) coupled to one side of at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2), a second housing (120) coupled to the other side of the at least one hinge assembly, a hinge housing (250) on which the at least one hinge assembly is seated, and a cap member (270) coupled to one end in the longitudinal direction of the hinge housing. The hinge housing may include a first region (252_r1) comprising a first seating surface (252_sr1) coupled to the central portion (270_cp) of the cap member, a second region (252_r2) comprising a second seating surface (252_sr2) on which one side portion (270_lp) of the cap member is seated, a third region (252_r3) comprising a third seating surface (252_sr3) on which the other side portion (270_rp) of the cap member is seated, and a first partition (253_w) protruding in a first direction toward the central portion from the first seating surface. The first region may be separated into two regions by the first partition. The first partition may be at least partially surrounded by the cap member and may engage with the cap member.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a front view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the rear side of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 3 shows a view of an electronic device in a folded state, according to one embodiment, as seen from one side.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a partially exploded perspective view of an electronic device including at least one hinge assembly according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the housing and hinge housing of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment, viewed from various directions.

[0011] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a hinge housing and a configuration disposed adjacent to the hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an example of a hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an example of a cap member and a dustproof member coupled to a hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an example in which a cap member and a dustproof member are coupled to a hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example in which a cap member and a hinge housing are combined according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the deformation section of a hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining the impact transmitted to a cap member according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the deformation of a hinge housing by a cap member according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing an example in which a cap member and a hinge housing are combined according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an example of a cap member and a dustproof member according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing an example in which a cap member and a dustproof member are coupled to a hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0022] In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0023] 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.

[0024] An electronic device according to embodiments disclosed herein (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1) may include a hinge housing (e.g., the hinge housing (150) of FIG. 6) on which at least one hinge assembly (e.g., at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2) of FIG. 6) is seated, and cap members (e.g., the first cap member (170), the second cap member (170-1) of FIG. 6) coupled to both ends of the hinge housing (150). A partition (or rib) (e.g., the first partition (153_w1) of FIG. 7) is formed at both ends of the hinge housing to engage at least partially with the cap member (e.g., the first cap member (170) of FIG. 6), and a recess (e.g., the first of FIG. 8) formed to surround at least a portion of the partition is formed on the cap member. It may include a recess (170_rc1). By using a locking structure (or interlocking structure) composed of the bulkhead and the recess, the cap member can be firmly fixed to the hinge housing. Through the locking structure, assembly defects between the cap member and the hinge housing can be reduced, and deformation of the hinge housing due to impact applied to the cap member can be reduced. Below, various purposes and effects provided by an electronic device including the hinge housing and the cap member may be mentioned with reference to the embodiments of the detailed description.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a front view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the rear side of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 3 shows a view of an electronic device in a folded state, according to one embodiment, as seen from one side.

[0028] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, in one embodiment, an electronic device (100) may include a first housing (110) (e.g., a first housing structure) comprising a first side member (113) (e.g., a side bezel) and a second housing (120) (e.g., a second housing structure) comprising a second side member (123) (e.g., a side bezel), which are foldably coupled to each other with respect to a folding axis (F) through at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1) (e.g., a hinge module, or a hinge structure) with respect to a folding axis (F). For example, the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may be configured as a foldable housing (e.g., a housing structure). For example, the electronic device (100) may include a first display (130) (e.g., a flexible display, a foldable display, or a main display) positioned to be supported by a first housing (110) and a second housing (120). For example, the first housing (110) may include a first surface (111) and a second surface (112) facing in the opposite direction of the first surface (111) (e.g., the -z axis direction). For example, the second housing (120) may include a third surface (121) and a fourth surface (122) facing in the opposite direction of the third surface (121) (e.g., the -z axis direction). For example, the first housing (110) may include a first rear cover (114) coupled with a first side member (113). For example, the second housing (120) may include a second rear cover (124) coupled with a second side member (123). For example, when the electronic device (100) is in a fully unfolded first state (e.g., unfolded state or unfolded state), the first surface (111) and the third surface (121) may be operated to face substantially the same direction (e.g., z-axis direction). For example, when the electronic device (100) is in a fully folded second state (e.g., folded state or folded state), the first surface (111) and the third surface (121) may be operated to face each other or face opposite directions.For example, the electronic device (100) may be operated to maintain a third state (e.g., an intermediate state) between a first state and a second state.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a first receiver (101) disposed on a first surface (111) of a first housing (110), at least one first sensor module (104) (e.g., an ambient light sensor) and / or at least one first camera module (105) (e.g., a UDC, under display camera). For example, the electronic device (100) may include at least one key (106) disposed on a first side member (113). For example, the electronic device (100) may include at least one second camera module (108) and / or a flash (109) disposed on a second surface (112) of the first housing (110) (e.g., a first rear cover (114)). For example, the electronic device (100) may include a second display (131) disposed on a fourth side (122) of the second housing (120), at least one third camera module (125) (e.g., UDC, under display camera), at least one second sensor module (126) and / or a second receiver (127). For example, the second display (131) may be disposed so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover (124). For example, the electronic device (100) may include a speaker (102) disposed on a second side member (123), a microphone (103) disposed on a first side member (113), and / or a connector port (107). At least some of the aforementioned components may be repositioned in the first housing (110) and / or the second housing (120).

[0030] According to one embodiment, the first display (130) (e.g., flexible display) may include a first region (130a) (e.g., first planar portion) corresponding to at least a portion of the first surface (111), a second region (130b) (e.g., second planar portion) corresponding to at least a portion of the third surface (121), and a third region (130c) (e.g., flexible portion) that connects the first region (130a) and the second region (130b) and is deformed in a second state (e.g., folding state) and / or a third state of the electronic device (100). For example, the third region (130c) may be positioned so as to overlap at least partially with at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1) when the first display (130) is viewed from above (e.g., in the z-axis direction). For example, the first display (130) may be positioned so as not to be seen from the outside in the second state, with the first surface (111) and the third surface (121) facing each other (e.g., inward-fold type). Alternatively, for example, the first display (130) may be positioned so as to be seen from the outside in the second state, with the first surface (111) and the third surface (121) facing in opposite directions (e.g., outward-fold type).

[0031] FIG. 4 is a partially exploded perspective view of an electronic device including at least one hinge assembly according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the housing and hinge housing of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment, viewed from various directions. Reference numeral 11 of FIG. 5 indicates the front of the electronic device (100) in a second state (e.g., folded state), reference numeral 12 indicates the upper side of the electronic device (100) in the second state, reference numeral 13 indicates the lower side of the electronic device (100) in the second state, reference numeral 14 indicates the left side of the electronic device (100) in the second state, and reference numeral 15 indicates the right side of the electronic device (100) in the second state.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 5, in one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1) (e.g., a hinge module, or a hinge structure) connecting a first housing (110) and a second housing (120) below a first display (130) (e.g., in the -z axis direction). For example, the at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1) may include a first hinge assembly (140) and a second hinge assembly (140-1) spaced apart from the first hinge assembly (140) along a direction parallel to the folding axis (F) (e.g., in the ± y axis direction). For example, at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1) may be supported by a first support member (1131) extending from a first side member (113) into a first space (1101) of a first housing (110) and a second support member (1231) extending from a second side member (123) into a second space (1201) of a second housing (120). For example, at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1) may be positioned between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) so as not to be seen from the outside through a hinge housing (150) (e.g., a hinge cover).

[0034] According to one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (140) may include a first rotation member (141) (e.g., a first arm or a first rotator) disposed on a first support member (1131) of the first housing (110), a second rotation member (142) (e.g., a second arm or a second rotator) disposed on a second support member (1231) of the second housing (120), and a gear assembly (143) connected to the first rotation member (141) and the second rotation member (142) so that the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) rotate symmetrically with respect to each other. For example, the gear assembly (143) may include a plurality of gears (e.g., spur gears and / or worm gears) that are geared to each other. For example, the gear assembly (143) may include a cam coupling structure for providing a free stop at various folding angles, which presses the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) with respect to each other in a direction intended to transition from a first state (e.g., unfolded state) to a second state (e.g., folded state) or from a second state to a first state. For example, the second hinge assembly (140-1) may have substantially the same configuration as the first hinge assembly (140).

[0035] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may include a first hinge plate (161) connected to a first support member (1131) and / or a first rotating member (141). The electronic device (100) may include a second hinge plate (162) connected to a second support member (1231) and / or a second rotating member (142). For example, at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1), a first rotating member (141), a second rotating member (142), a first hinge plate (161), and a second hinge plate (162) may form substantially the same plane as the first support member (1131) and the second support member (1231) when the electronic device (100) is in a first state. For example, the second hinge assembly (140-1) may be substantially symmetric to or have substantially the same configuration as the first hinge assembly (140).

[0036] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may be configured to allow specific operations even in a folded state. For example, in a second state (e.g., a folded state) of the electronic device (100), the fourth side (122) of the second housing (120) on which the second display (131) is placed may constitute the front of the electronic device (100). For example, in the second state, various functions (e.g., calling, watching video, changing settings, etc.) may be implemented through the second display (131). For example, in the second state, the second side (112) of the first housing (110) on which at least one second camera module (108) is placed may constitute the rear of the electronic device (100). For example, in the second state, quick and easy shooting may be performed through at least one second camera module (108). For example, in a second state, a first side member (113) and / or a second side member (123), on which various configurations for user convenience (e.g., at least one key (106)) are arranged, may constitute a part of the side of the electronic device (100). In a second state, at least a part of the side of the electronic device (100) may be composed of a hinge housing (150). For example, the hinge housing (150) may be placed between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) to fill the folded gap (or, spaced-out space) between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). In one example, the hinge housing (150) is not visible in the first state (e.g., unfolded state) of the electronic device (100), and at least a part of it may be visible externally in the second state. In the second state, the hinge housing (150) may constitute at least a part of the exterior of the electronic device (100).

[0037] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a hinge housing and a configuration disposed adjacent to the hinge housing according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 shows the arrangement of a hinge housing (150), at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2), and a first display (130) in a second state of an electronic device (100).

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 6, in one embodiment, the hinge housing (150) may be formed in a shape that extends long in one direction. For example, the length of the hinge housing (150) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., ±y-axis direction) parallel to the folding axis (F) may be longer than the length in the width direction (e.g., ±x-axis direction) perpendicular to the folding axis (F). In one embodiment, at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2) may be disposed along the longitudinal direction of the hinge housing (150). For example, a first hinge assembly (140) and a second hinge assembly (140-1) may be disposed in portions adjacent to both ends in the longitudinal direction of the hinge housing (150). For example, the first hinge assembly (140) may be positioned adjacent to the end (R) in the y-axis direction of the hinge housing (150), and the second hinge assembly (140-1) may be positioned adjacent to the end in the -y-axis direction of the hinge housing (150). In one example, a third hinge assembly (140-2) may be positioned between the first hinge assembly (140) and the second hinge assembly (140-1). The third hinge assembly (140-2) may be substantially symmetrical to or have substantially the same configuration as the first hinge assembly (140) or the second hinge assembly (140-1).

[0039] In one embodiment, the hinge housing (150) may be formed to accommodate at least a portion of the first display (130). For example, the hinge housing (150) may be formed to support a folding area (or flexible portion) (e.g., a third area (130c)) of the first display (130) in a second state of the electronic device (100). For example, at least a portion of the hinge housing (150) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the folding and unfolding shape of the first display (130).

[0040] The hinge housing (150) may be configured to prevent at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2) from being exposed to the outside and to protect said at least one hinge assembly from external impact. In one example, if the electronic device (100) includes a plurality of hinge assemblies, the hinge housing (150) may be coupled to the plurality of hinge assemblies so that the plurality of hinge assemblies are connected to each other and can perform uniform behavior. For example, the hinge housing (150) may be fixed to the plurality of hinge assemblies through a fixing member (or, fastening member) (e.g., a screw).

[0041] In one embodiment, a cap member (170, 170-1) may be disposed in the hinge housing to cover the gap between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) so that foreign matter does not penetrate into the gap during the folding and / or unfolding operation of the electronic device (100). For example, the cap member (170, 170-1) may be disposed at both ends in the longitudinal direction (e.g., ±y-axis direction) of the hinge housing (150). For example, the cap member (170, 170-1) may be disposed to occupy at least a portion of the space between the first housing (110) and the hinge housing (150) and the space between the second housing (120) and the hinge housing (150) during the operation of the electronic device (100). For example, the first cap member (170) may be positioned at the end (R) in the y-axis direction of the hinge housing (150), and the second cap member (170-1) may be positioned at the end in the -y-axis direction of the hinge housing (150). In one example, the first cap member (170) and the second cap member (170-1) together with the hinge housing (150) can prevent foreign matter from entering the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). Hereinafter, the first cap member (170) is described with the y-axis direction end (R) to which it is coupled to the hinge housing (150), and the coupling form of the second cap member (170-1) and the hinge housing (150) may be substantially the same as the coupling form of the first cap member (170) and the hinge housing (150).

[0042] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an example of a hinge housing according to one embodiment. Reference numeral 21 of FIG. 7 shows the hinge housing (150) viewed from the z-axis, and reference numeral 22 shows an enlarged view of the end (R) in the y-axis direction where the first cap member (170) of the hinge housing (150) is seated.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 7, in one embodiment, the hinge housing (150) may include an inner surface on which at least one hinge assembly (e.g., at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2) of FIG. 6) is disposed. For example, the inner surface may be a surface facing the z-axis. The inner surface may include a hinge joint (151) on which at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2) is seated, and a cap joint (152) on which a first cap member (e.g., the first cap member (170) of FIG. 6) is seated. For example, the cap joint (152) may be formed separately from the hinge joint (151). For example, the hinge joint (151) and the cap joint (152) may be separated by at least one wall (e.g., a center wall (154_cw)) protruding from the inner surface. The cap joint (152) may be formed at the end of the hinge housing (150) in the y-axis direction.

[0044] In one embodiment, the cap coupling portion (152) may include at least one seating area (152_r1, 152_r2, 152_r3) in contact with the first cap member (170), at least one partition wall (153_w1, 153_w2), and a side wall (154) surrounding at least a portion of the first cap member (170). For example, the seating area may include a first area (152_r1) coupled with the first cap member (170), a second area (152_r2) on which one side of the first cap member (170) is seated, and a third area (152_r3) on which the other side of the first cap member (170) is seated. The first area (152_r1), the second area (152_r2), and the third area (152_r3) may be formed to be aligned along the x-axis. For example, the second region (152_r2) may be formed in the -x-axis direction of the first region (152_r1), and the third region (152_r3) may be formed in the x-axis direction of the first region (152_r1). The first region (152_r1) and the second region (152_r2) may be separated from each other by a first partition (153_w1). For example, the first partition (153_w1) may be formed between the first region (152_r1) and the second region (152_r2). The first region (152_r1) and the third region (152_r3) may be separated from each other by a second partition (153_w2). For example, the second partition (153_w2) can be formed between the first region (152_r1) and the third region (152_r3).

[0045] The side wall (154) of the cap joint (152) may include a central wall (154_cw) formed to protrude to separate the hinge joint (151) and the cap joint (152), an outer wall (154_ow) formed to face the central wall (154_cw), a left wall (154_lw) and a right wall (154_rw) connecting the central wall (154_cw) and the outer wall (154_ow). For example, the central wall (154_cw), the outer wall (154_ow), the left wall (154_lw), and the right wall (154_rw) may be defined as a portion protruding in the z-axis direction from a surface facing the z-axis of the hinge housing (150). In one example, the first area (152_r1) may correspond to an area enclosed by the center wall (154_cw), the first bulkhead (153_w1), a part of the left wall (154_lw), the outer wall (154_ow), a part of the right wall (154_rw), and the second bulkhead (153_w2). In one example, the second area (152_r2) may correspond to an area enclosed by the center wall (154_cw), the first bulkhead (153_w1), and the left wall (154_lw). In one example, the third area (152_r3) may correspond to an area enclosed by the center wall (154_cw), the second bulkhead (153_w2), and the right wall (154_rw).

[0046] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an example of a cap member and a dustproof member coupled to a hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the first cap member (170) may include a coupling portion (170_co) coupled to a hinge housing (e.g., the hinge housing (150) of FIG. 7) and protrusions (170_p1, 170_p2) seated on the hinge housing (150). For example, the first cap member (170) may include a coupling portion (170_co) formed at the bottom (e.g., in the -z-axis direction), a first protrusion (170_p1) formed to the left (e.g., in the -x-axis direction) of the coupling portion (170_co), and a second protrusion (170_p2) formed to the right (e.g., in the x-axis direction) of the coupling portion (170_co). The first protrusion (170_p1) and the second protrusion (170_p2) may be located relatively higher (e.g., in the z-axis direction) compared to the connecting portion (170_co). A first recess (170_rc1) may be formed between the first protrusion (170_p1) and the connecting portion (170_co), in which at least a portion of the bottom of the first cap member (170) is recessed. A second recess (170_rc2) may be formed between the second protrusion (170_p2) and the connecting portion (170_co), in which at least a portion of the bottom of the first cap member (170) is recessed. For example, the first recess (170_rc1) may have a shape that is recessed in the z-axis compared to the first protrusion (170_p1). For example, the second recess (170_rc2) may be shaped to be recessed along the z-axis relative to the second protrusion (170_p2).

[0048] In one example, the coupling portion (170_co) may include bottom portions (170_bp1, 170_bp2, 170_bp3, 170_bp4) that are in direct contact with the hinge housing (150). For example, the coupling portion (170_co) may include a first bottom portion (170_bp1) and a second bottom portion (170_bp2) formed spaced apart from each other. A central region (170_cr) consisting of an empty space may be formed between the first bottom portion (170_bp1) and the second bottom portion (170_bp2). For example, the central region (170_cr) may be used as a passage for various materials (e.g., injection molded materials). For example, the central region (170_cr) may be used as a passage for an injection molded product to flow into the hinge housing (150) during the formation process of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1) or a hinge housing (150). The first bottom portion (170_bp1) and the second bottom portion (170_bp2) may be directly fixed to the hinge housing (150). In one example, the connecting portion (170_co) may include a third bottom portion (170_bp3) spaced apart from the first bottom portion (170_bp1) along the -x axis and a fourth bottom portion (170_bp4) spaced apart from the second bottom portion (170_bp2) along the x axis. The third floor portion (170_bp3) and the fourth floor portion (170_bp4) can perform substantially the same function as the first floor portion (170_bp1) and the second floor portion (170_bp2).

[0049] In one embodiment, a dustproof member (180) may be coupled to the first cap member (170). For example, the first cap member (170) may be formed integrally with the dustproof member (180). The dustproof member (180) may include a central portion (180_cp) coupled to the first cap member (170), a right wing portion (180_rwg) inserted into the gap between the first housing (e.g., the first housing (110) in FIG. 4) and the hinge housing (150), and a left wing portion (180_lwg) inserted into the gap between the second housing (e.g., the second housing (120) in FIG. 4) and the hinge housing (150). The left wing portion (180_lwg) may extend from the central portion (180_cp) in the -x-axis direction. The right wing portion (180_rwg) may extend in the x-axis direction from the central portion (180_cp). In one example, the central portion (180_cp) of the anti-vibration member (180) may include a protruding portion (180_pr) inserted into at least a part of the first cap member (170), and a central portion (180_cs), a left portion (180_ls), and a right portion (180_rs) seated on the first cap member (170). For example, the anti-vibration member (180) may be fixed to the first cap member (170) through the protruding portion (180_pr), the central portion (180_cs), the left portion (180_ls), and the right portion (180_rs).

[0050] In one embodiment, the anti-vibration member (180) and the first cap member (170) may be joined to the hinge housing (150) as a single unit. For example, the central portion (180_cp) of the anti-vibration member (180) may be assembled to the cap joining portion (e.g., the cap joining portion (152) of FIG. 7) of the hinge housing (150) in a form in which the central portion (180_cp) of the anti-vibration member (180) is joined to the first cap member (170) (e.g., the form in which the anti-vibration member (180) is assembled to the first cap member (170)). When the integrated cap member (e.g., the form in which the anti-vibration member (180) is assembled to the first cap member (170)) is joined to the hinge housing (150), the left wing portion (180_lwg) and the right wing portion (180_rwg) of the anti-vibration member (180) may be at least partially bent. For example, the left wing portion (180_lwg) and the right wing portion (180_rwg) may be formed to be bendable relative to the central portion (180_cp). For example, the left wing portion (180_lwg) and the right wing portion (180_rwg) may be bent in a direction that brings them together when the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1) is folded, and may be bent in a direction that moves them apart from each other when the electronic device (100) is unfolded. For example, when the electronic device (100) changes from a first state to a second state, the left wing portion (180_lwg) may be bent from the -x axis to the z axis direction in response to the movement of the second housing (120). For example, when the electronic device (100) changes from a first state to a second state, the right wing portion (180_rwg) can be bent from the x-axis to the z-axis direction in response to the movement of the first housing (110).

[0051] As the above-mentioned integrated cap member is coupled to the hinge housing (150), the frequency of foreign substances entering the electronic device (100) can be reduced. For example, the dustproof member (180) can perform the role of directly filtering foreign substances. For example, the first cap member (170) can be composed of an intermediate bridge connecting the dustproof member (180) and the hinge housing (150). By forming the first cap member (170) to be stably coupled to the hinge housing (150), it can contribute to the smooth operation of the foreign substance ingress prevention function of the dustproof member (180).

[0052] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an example in which a cap member and a dustproof member are coupled to a hinge housing according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 shows an integrated cap member composed of a first cap member (170) and a dustproof member (180) being coupled to a hinge housing (150).

[0053] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example in which a cap member and a hinge housing are combined according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken from the -y axis of a cross-section cut by a plane perpendicular to the y-axis (e.g., the xz-plane) of the combined form of the first cap member (170) and the hinge housing (150).

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 10, in one embodiment, the coupling portion (170_co) of the first cap member (170) may be coupled to a first region (152_r1) of the hinge housing (150). For example, the coupling portion (170_co) may be coupled to a first region (152_r1) corresponding to an area surrounded by a first seating surface (152_sr1), a first partition (153_w1) protruding in a first direction (e.g., z-axis direction) from one side (e.g., -x-axis) of the first seating surface (152_sr1), and a second partition (153_w2) protruding in a first direction from the other side (e.g., x-axis) of the first seating surface (152_sr1). For example, the lower portion of the joint (170_co) (e.g., bottom portions (170_bp1, 170_bp2, 170_bp3, 170_bp4)) may be joined to the first seating surface (152_sr1). For instance, an adhesive material (e.g., adhesive, or adhesive tape) may be placed between the lower portion of the joint (170_co) and the first seating surface (152_sr1). The joint (170_co) may be strongly bonded to the first seating surface (152_sr1) through the adhesive material. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the adhesive material may be placed in the area between at least a portion of the joint (170_co) and the first partition (153_w1), or in the area between at least a portion of the joint (170_co) and the second partition (153_w2). In one embodiment, the connecting portion (170_co) may be the most protruding part in the second direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) of the first cap member (170).

[0055] The protrusions (170_p1, 170_p2) formed on both sides of the coupling portion (170_co) of the first cap member (170) can be seated in the second region (152_r2) and the third region (152_r3) of the hinge housing (150), respectively. For example, the first protrusion (170_p1) formed on one side (e.g., -x axis) of the coupling portion (170_co) can be seated in the second region (152_r2). For example, the first protrusion (170_p1) may be seated in a second area (152_r2) corresponding to an area surrounded by a first partition (153_w1), a second seating surface (152_sr2) spaced apart from the first seating surface (152_sr1) by the first partition (153_w1), and a first cap contact portion (150_ct1) forming the -x-axis end of the cap coupling portion (152). In one example, the first protrusion surface (170_sp1) facing the second direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) of the first protrusion (170_p1) may be in contact with the second seating surface (152_sr2) or spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, the spaced-apart gap between the first protrusion (170_p1) and the second seating surface (152_sr2) may be smaller than the gap between the second seating surface (152_sr2) and the first end of the first partition (153_w1).

[0056] A second protrusion (170_p2) formed on the other side (e.g., x-axis) of the coupling portion (170_co) may be seated in a third region (152_r3). For example, the second protrusion (170_p2) may be seated in a third region (152_r3) corresponding to an area surrounded by a second partition (153_w2), a third seating surface (152_sr3) spaced apart from the first seating surface (152_sr1) by the second partition (153_w2), and a second cap contact portion (150_ct2) forming the x-axis end of the cap coupling portion (152). In one example, the second protruding surface (170_sp2) facing the second direction (e.g., the -z-axis direction) of the second protrusion (170_p2) may be in contact with the third seating surface (152_sr3) or spaced apart by a predetermined distance. For example, the spaced-apart distance between the second protrusion (170_p2) and the third seating surface (152_sr3) may be smaller than the distance between the third seating surface (152_sr3) and the end of the second partition (153_w2) in the first direction.

[0057] The first cap contact portion (150_ct1) may be in contact with the first contact portion (170_ct1) forming the -x-axis end of the cap member (170). The first contact portion (170_ct1) may be, for example, shaped to protrude less in the second direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) than the first protrusion (170_p1). The first cap contact portion (150_ct1) may be in contact with the first contact portion (170_ct1) to support the first cap member (170) in the x-axis direction.

[0058] The second cap contact portion (150_ct2) may be in contact with the second contact portion (170_ct2) forming the x-axis end of the cap member (170). The second contact portion (170_ct2) may be, for example, shaped to protrude less in the second direction than the second protrusion (170_p2). The second cap contact portion (150_ct2) may be in contact with the second contact portion (170_ct2) to support the first cap member (170) in the -x-axis direction.

[0059] In one embodiment, the hinge housing (150) and the first cap member (170) may form at least one locking structure. For example, the first partition (153_w1) of the hinge housing (150) and the first recess (170_rc1) of the first cap member (170) may engage to form a first locking structure. For example, the second partition (153_w2) of the hinge housing (150) and the second recess (170_rc2) of the first cap member (170) may engage to form a second locking structure. The first locking structure may be, for example, a structure in which the first partition (153_w1) is supported by a first protrusion (170_p1) and a coupling part (170_co) that form the first recess (170_rc1). The above second locking structure may be, for example, a structure in which the second partition (153_w2) is supported by a second protrusion (170_p2) and a connecting part (170_co) that form a second recess (170_rc2).

[0060] Through the first locking structure and the second locking structure, the first cap member (170) can be stably coupled to the hinge housing (150). For example, when the coupling portion (170_co) of the first cap member (170) is placed in the first area (152_r1) of the hinge housing (150), the first partition (153_w1) can be inserted into the first recess (170_rc1) and the second partition (153_w2) can be inserted into the second recess (170_rc2). For example, at least a portion of the first partition (153_w1) can be accommodated in the first recess (170_rc1), and at least a portion of the second partition (153_w2) can be accommodated in the second recess (170_rc2). The first cap member (170) can be fixed so as not to move in the x-axis or -x-axis direction by the first partition (153_w1) and the second partition (153_w2). For example, in the process of placing the first cap member (170) on the hinge housing (150), the first cap member (170) can be fixed to the hinge housing (150) on both sides by the first locking structure and the second locking structure. The coupling portion (170_co) of the first cap member (170) and the first region (152_r1) of the hinge housing (150) can be easily joined in a state aligned with each other (e.g., aligned along the z-axis) through the first locking structure and the second locking structure.

[0061] In one embodiment, the first locking structure and the second locking structure may be formed by the interlocking of the stepped shape of the hinge housing (150) and the stepped shape of the first cap member (170). For example, the first partition (153_w1) may protrude further in the first direction from the first seating surface (152_sr1) than the second seating surface (152_sr2), so as to be formed with a step difference between the first seating surface (152_sr1) and the second seating surface (152_sr2). The first recess (170_rc1) may be recessed further inward (e.g., in the second direction) than the first protrusion (170_p1), so as to be formed with a step difference between the first protrusion (170_sp1) and the second direction-facing surface of the coupling part (170_co). The stepped shape of the first bulkhead (153_w1) can be positioned to correspond to the stepped shape of the first recess (170_rc1) to form the first locking structure.

[0062] For example, the second bulkhead (153_w2) may be formed with a step difference from the first seating surface (152_sr1) and the third seating surface (152_sr3) by protruding further inward from the third seating surface (152_sr3) in the first direction. The second recess (170_rc2) may be formed with a step difference from the second protrusion (170_sp2) and the second direction-facing surface of the coupling part (170_co) by being recessed further inward (e.g., in the second direction) than the second protrusion (170_p2). The stepped shape of the second bulkhead (153_w2) may be positioned to correspond to the stepped shape of the second recess (170_rc2) to form the second locking structure.

[0063] In one embodiment, by utilizing the physical locking structure (or corresponding structure) of the recesses (170_rc1, 170_rc2) of the first cap member (170) and the partitions (153_w1, 153_w2) of the hinge housing (150), the assembly of the first cap member (170) and the hinge housing (150) can proceed easily. The first cap member (170) may not easily detach from the hinge housing (150), and the failure of the connection between the first cap member (170) and the hinge housing (150) may be reduced. The first cap member (170) may not be tilted or misaligned with respect to the hinge housing (150), and folding failure of the electronic device (100) and / or display damage (e.g., dents on the first display (130) caused by the first cap member (170)) may be minimized.

[0064] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the deformation section of a hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 11, in one embodiment, the coupling portion (170_co) of the first cap member (170) is in contact with the first seating surface (152_sr1) and may be supported in the y-axis direction by the inner surface (154_scw1) of the center wall (154_cw) (e.g., the y-axis facing surface). The surface opposite to the surface supported by the inner surface (154_scw1) of the coupling portion (170_co) (e.g., the y-axis facing surface) may be in contact with the outer wall (154_ow). In one example, when an impact (e.g., impact by falling) is applied to the electronic device (100) (or when an impact is applied to the hinge housing (150)), the coupling portion (170_co) may be pushed at least partially in the y-axis direction by the inner surface (154_scw1). A force in the y-axis direction from the joint (170_co) can be applied to the outer wall (154_ow), and at least a portion of the first outer surface (154_ow1) can be deformed.

[0066] The first protrusion (170_p1) of the first cap member (170) may come into contact with the second seating surface (152_sr2) and may be supported by the inner surface (154_ilw) of the left wall (154_lw) and the first partition (153_w1). In one example, when an impact is applied to the electronic device (100) (or, when an impact is applied to the hinge housing (150)), the first protrusion (170_p1) may be pushed in the y-axis direction by at least a portion of the inner surface (154_ilw) of the left wall (154_lw). A force in the y-axis direction from the first protrusion (170_p1) can be applied to the outer wall (154_ow), and at least a portion of the second outer surface (154_ow2) (e.g., the side opposite to the surface pressed by the first protrusion (170_p1)) can be deformed.

[0067] The second protrusion (170_p2) of the first cap member (170) may come into contact with the third seating surface (152_sr3) and may be supported by the inner surface (154_irw) of the right wall (154_rw) and the second partition (153_w2). In one example, when an impact is applied to the electronic device (100) (or, when an impact is applied to the hinge housing (150)), the second protrusion (170_p2) may be pushed in the y-axis direction by at least a portion of the inner surface (154_irw) of the right wall (154_rw). A force in the y-axis direction from the second protrusion (170_p2) can be applied to the outer wall (154_ow), and at least a portion of the third outer surface (154_ow3) (e.g., the side opposite to the surface pressed by the second protrusion (170_p2)) can be deformed.

[0068] In one embodiment, the hinge housing (150) may have enhanced rigidity compared to a structure without partitions as the first partition (153_w1) and the second partition (153_w2) are formed. The first partition (153_w1) and the second partition (153_w2) may engage with the first recess (170_rc1) and the second recess (170_rc2), respectively, and the sliding phenomenon of the first cap member (170) (e.g., sliding in the y-axis direction due to external impact) may be mitigated. For example, the sliding of one side (e.g., -x-axis) of the first cap member (170) through the first partition (153_w1) may be reduced. Accordingly, deformation of the outer surface (154_olw) of the left wall (154_lw) corresponding to the one side of the first cap member (170) and / or the second outer surface (154_ow2) of the outer wall (154_ow) can be reduced. For example, the displacement of the other side (e.g., x-axis) of the first cap member (170) through the second partition (153_w2) can be reduced. Accordingly, deformation of the outer surface (154_orw) of the right wall (154_rw) corresponding to the other side of the first cap member (170) and / or the third outer surface (154_ow3) of the outer wall (154_ow) can be reduced.

[0069] For example, partitions (153_w1, 153_w2) formed in the hinge housing (150) may be configured to narrow the deformation section of the hinge housing (150) caused by external impact. The first partition (153_w1) may be inserted into the first recess (170_rc1) to reduce deformation of the hinge housing (150) caused by one side (e.g., -x-axis) of the coupling portion (170_co) of the first cap member (170). The second partition (153_w2) may be inserted into the second recess (170_rc2) to reduce deformation of the hinge housing (150) caused by the other side (e.g., x-axis) of the coupling portion (170_co). For example, a hinge housing (150) including a first bulkhead (153_w1) and a second bulkhead (153_w2) may have a reduced deformation range of the outer surface compared to a hinge housing that does not include bulkheads (153_w1, 153_w2). For example, the hinge housing (150) may have reduced or prevented deformation of the outer surface caused by both sides (e.g., ±x axis) of the first cap member (170). Through the first bulkhead (153_w1) and the second bulkhead (153_w2) protruding in a first direction from the first seating surface (152_sr1), the rigidity of the hinge housing (150) or impact resistance may be enhanced.

[0070] In one embodiment, the height (e.g., length protruding in the first direction from the first seating surface (152_sr1)) and / or width (e.g., width in the x-axis direction) of the first bulkhead (153_w1) or the second bulkhead (153_w2) may be set to have a value greater than a certain level, taking into account the rigidity and deformation of the hinge housing (150). For example, the width (D1) in the x-axis direction of the first bulkhead (153_w1) may be formed with a width sufficient to prevent deformation of the outer surface of the hinge housing (150) (e.g., the second outer surface (154_ow2) of the outer wall (154_ow). For example, the width (D1) of the first bulkhead (153_w1) may be set to be greater than the minimum width capable of ensuring rigidity, taking into account the material of the hinge housing (150).

[0071] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining the impact transmitted to a cap member according to one embodiment. Reference numeral 31 of FIG. 12 shows the arrangement relationship of the first housing (110), the hinge housing (150), and the first cap member (170) when the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1) is in a folded state, and reference numeral 32 schematically shows the cross-section of the drawing shown in reference numeral 31 cut along A-A' as viewed from the -x axis.

[0072] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the deformation of a hinge housing by a cap member according to one embodiment. FIG. 13 shows the arrangement relationship of the first housing (110), the hinge housing (150), and the first cap member (170) in a folded state of an electronic device (100) as viewed from the -x axis.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 10 through 13, in one embodiment, a first cap member (170) coupled to a hinge housing (150) may be positioned adjacent to a first housing (110) or a second housing (e.g., the second housing (120) of FIG. 1). For example, when the electronic device (100) is folded, the first housing (110) may be moved in a direction from the x-axis toward the z-axis, and at least a portion of the first housing (110) and at least a portion of the first cap member (170) may overlap on the y-axis. For example, when viewing the electronic device (100) from the y-axis, the first housing (110) may overlap at least partially with the left half of the hinge housing (150), and the second housing (120) may overlap at least partially with the right half of the hinge housing (150). Since the first cap member (170) is seated across the first region (152_r1), second region (152_r2), and third region (152_r3) of the hinge housing (150), the left half of the first cap member (170) may also overlap at least partially with the first housing (110), and the right half may overlap at least partially with the second housing (120).

[0074] When the electronic device (100) is folded and / or unfolded, the first housing (110) or the second housing (120) may be moved along the outer surface of the hinge housing (150). For example, in the case of the first housing (110), at least a portion of the first side member (e.g., the first side member (113) of FIG. 1) (e.g., the decoration (or border) portion forming the edge of the first housing (110)) may be configured to move along the outer surface (154_orw) of the right wall (154_rw) and the outer surface of the outer wall (154_ow) (e.g., the first outer surface (154_ow1) and the third outer surface (154_ow3)).

[0075] In the above movement process of the first housing (110) (or, folding process of the electronic device (100)), if deformation occurs on the outer surface of the hinge housing (150), the movement of the first housing (110) may be hindered. For example, when an external force (Fe) (e.g., a force in the y-axis direction) is applied to the first cap member (170) in accordance with an impact applied to the electronic device (100), a force in the same direction as the external force (Fe) may also be transmitted to the inner surface of the hinge housing (150) in contact with the first cap member (170) (e.g., the inner surface (154_iow) of the outer wall (154_ow) (e.g., the surface facing the -y-axis). For example, a tensile force (e.g., a tensile force in the y-axis direction) may be generated on the inner surface of the hinge housing (150). Due to the tensile force, at least a portion of the outer surface of the hinge housing (150) (e.g., the first outer surface (154_ow1) of the outer wall (154_ow)) may be deformed in the y-axis direction. The first housing (110) may be contacted by the deformed portion of the hinge housing (150), and the electronic When the device (100) is folded and / or unfolded, interference may occur due to the deformed part.

[0076] In one embodiment, the first partition (153_w1) and the second partition (153_w2) may be formed to minimize deformation of the outer surface of the hinge housing (150). The first partition (153_w1) may engage with one side of the first cap member (170) (e.g., the part where the first recess (170_rc1) is formed) to relieve the displacement of the first cap member (170) (e.g., displacement in the y-axis direction due to an external force (Fe)). The second partition (153_w2) may engage with the other side of the first cap member (170) (e.g., the part where the second recess (170_rc2) is formed) to relieve the displacement of the first cap member (170). For example, through the interlocking shape (or, locking structure) of the partitions (153_w1, 153_w2) formed in the hinge housing (150) and the recesses (170_rc1, 170_rc2) formed in the first cap member (170), deformation of the outer surface of the hinge housing (150) can be reduced, and interference phenomena that may occur during the folding and / or unfolding operation of the electronic device (100) can be mitigated. For example, the failure of the electronic device (100) to open and close can be improved.

[0077] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example in which a cap member and a hinge housing are combined according to one embodiment. FIG. 14 relates to an embodiment in which a partition is formed in the hinge housing (250) and a recess corresponding to the partition is formed in the first cap member (270).

[0078] Referring to FIG. 14, in one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1) may include a hinge housing (250) on which at least one hinge assembly (e.g., at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2) of FIG. 6) is seated, and a first cap member (270) coupled to one end of the hinge housing (250). Regarding the function, purpose, and effect of the hinge housing (250), the description provided regarding the hinge housing (150) through FIG. 4 through 13 may be referenced substantially the same. Regarding the function, purpose, and effect of the first cap member (270), the description provided regarding the first cap member (170) through FIG. 6 through 13 may be referenced substantially the same. The hinge housing (250) and the first cap member (270) may be formed in corresponding shapes to form a locking structure. For example, the hinge housing (250) may include a first partition (253_w) that protrudes toward the first cap member (270). For example, the first cap member (270) may include a first recess (270_rc) formed to accommodate at least a portion of the first partition (253_w).

[0079] In one example, the hinge housing (250) may include a first area (252_r1) coupled to the central portion (270_cp) of the first cap member (270), a second area (252_r2) on which one side portion (270_lp) (or, left portion) of the first cap member (270) is seated, and a third area (252_r3) on which the other side portion (270_rp) (or, right portion) of the first cap member (270) is seated. The first partition (253_w) may protrude in a first direction (e.g., z-axis direction) from the first seating surface (252_sr1) of the first area (252_r1). The second seating surface (252_sr2) of the second area (252_r2) may be formed with a step from the first seating surface (252_sr1). For example, the second seating surface (252_sr2) may be formed at a position protruding further in the first direction than the first seating surface (252_sr1). The third seating surface (252_sr3) of the third region (252_r3) may be formed with a step difference from the first seating surface (252_sr1). For example, the third seating surface (252_sr3) may be formed at a position protruding further in the first direction than the first seating surface (252_sr1).

[0080] In one example, the first cap member (270) may include a first protrusion (270_p1), a second protrusion (270_p2), and a first recess (270_rc) formed in the central portion (270_cp). For example, the first protrusion (270_p1) and the second protrusion (270_p2) may protrude in a second direction (e.g., -z-axis direction) toward the first seating surface (252_sr1). The first protruding surface of the first protrusion (270_p1) (e.g., the surface facing the -z-axis) and the second protruding surface of the second protrusion (270_p2) (e.g., the surface facing the -z-axis) may be coupled to the first seating surface (252_sr1). The first protrusion (270_p1) and the second protrusion (270_p2) may protrude spaced apart from each other. For example, the first recess (270_rc) may be defined as a space formed between the first protrusion (270_p1) and the second protrusion (270_p2). The first recess (270_rc) may be formed to surround at least a portion of the first bulkhead (253_w). The first bulkhead (253_w) and the first recess (270_rc) may interlock to form a locking structure.

[0081] In one embodiment, one side (270_lp) of the first cap member (270) is formed with a step difference from the first protrusion (270_p1) and can come into contact with the second seating surface (252_sr2). For example, the one side (270_lp) includes a first stepped surface (270_s1) that forms a step difference with the first protrusion surface, and the first stepped surface (270_s1) can come into contact with the second seating surface (252_sr2). In one example, the other side (270_rp) of the first cap member (270) is formed with a step difference from the second protrusion (270_p2) and can come into contact with the third seating surface (252_sr3). For example, the other side (270_rp) includes a second stepped surface (270_s2) that forms a step with the second protruding surface, and the second stepped surface (270_s2) may come into contact with a third seating surface (252_sr3). Through the locking structure of the first partition (253_w) and the first recess (270_rc), the alignment state of the first cap member (270) and the hinge housing (250) (e.g., one side (270_lp) of the first cap member (270) is seated on the second seating surface (252_sr2) and the other side (270_rp) is seated on the third seating surface (252_sr3)) can be maintained.

[0082] In various embodiments, with reference to FIG. 10 and FIG. 14, the locking structure of the hinge housing and the first cap member may be formed by a combination of the embodiments described above. For example, the hinge housing may include a partition formed at the center of the first region (152_r1) (e.g., the first partition (253_w) of FIG. 14), a first partition (153_w1) formed between the first region (152_r1) and the second region (152_r2), and a second partition (153_w2) formed between the first region (152_r1) and the third region (152_r3). For example, the first cap member may include a recess formed to engage with the bulkhead (e.g., the first recess (270_rc) of FIG. 14), a first recess (170_rc1) formed to engage with the first bulkhead (153_w1), and a second recess (170_rc2) formed to engage with the second bulkhead (153_w2). The bulkhead and the recess may form a locking structure, the first bulkhead and the first recess may form a first locking structure, and the second bulkhead and the second recess may form a second locking structure. The locking structures may maintain the alignment state of the hinge housing and the first cap member. The shape and number of partitions formed in the hinge housing and the shape and number of recesses formed in the first cap member are not limited to the above-described contents and can be adjusted in various ways within the range required to achieve the purpose of preventing deformation of the hinge housing.

[0083] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an example of a cap member and a dustproof member according to one embodiment.

[0084] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing an example in which a cap member and a dustproof member are coupled to a hinge housing according to one embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, in one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1) may include a first cap member (370) and a dustproof member (380) that are formed separately and each are coupled to a hinge housing (150). For example, the first cap member (370) may be coupled to the hinge housing (150) first, and the dustproof member (380) may be coupled to the hinge housing (150) through the first cap member (370). For example, to combine the hinge housing (150), the first cap member (370), and the dustproof member (380), a process of combining the hinge housing (150) and the first cap member (370) and a process of combining the first cap member (370) or the hinge housing (150) and the dustproof member (380) may be involved. In one embodiment, regarding the first cap member (370), the description provided for the first cap member (170) of FIGS. 6 to 13 may be referenced substantially the same way. Regarding the dustproof member (380), the description provided for the dustproof member (180) of FIGS. 8 to 9 may be referenced substantially the same way. For example, the first cap member (370) may include a first partition (e.g., the first partition (153_w1) of FIG. 10) and a second partition (e.g., the second partition (153_w2) of FIG. 10).

[0086] The shape of the locking structure of the hinge housing (150) and the first cap member (170) according to one embodiment disclosed in this document is not limited to the above description and can be formed in various shapes. For example, the first cap member (170) may include at least one partition protruding toward the cap coupling portion (152) of the hinge housing (150), and the hinge housing (150) may include at least one recess into which the at least one partition of the first cap member (170) is inserted. Alternatively, in one example, the hinge housing (150) and the first cap member (170) may include an uneven structure formed to interlock with each other.

[0087] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the contact surfaces of the first cap member (170) and the hinge housing (150) may be formed as inclined surfaces. For example, the second seating surface (152_sr2) may be formed at an angle with respect to the first seating surface (152_sr1), and the first protruding surface (170_sp1) may be formed as an inclined surface corresponding to the second seating surface (152_sr2). The third seating surface (152_sr3) may be formed at an angle with respect to the first seating surface (152_sr1), and the second protruding surface (170_sp2) may be formed as an inclined surface corresponding to the third seating surface (152_sr3). The second seating surface (152_sr2) and the third seating surface (152_sr3) may be formed at an angle in different directions. For example, the second mounting surface (152_sr2) can form a positive angle with respect to the first mounting surface (152_sr1), and the third mounting surface (152_sr3) can form a negative angle with respect to the first mounting surface (152_sr1).

[0088] A hinge housing (150) according to one embodiment disclosed in this document may be combined with various types of cap members (e.g., a first cap member (170)). For example, an integral cap member (e.g., a form in which the first cap member (170) and the anti-vibration member (180) are formed integrally), a separate cap member (e.g., a form in which the first cap member (170) and the anti-vibration member (180) are formed separately and assembled), or a cap member having an anti-vibration function (e.g., a form in which at least a part of the first cap member (170) performs the function of the anti-vibration member (180)) may be combined with the hinge housing (150). In the process of combining, the hinge housing (150) and the cap member may be stably combined through various locking structures (e.g., locking structures of partitions and recesses).

[0089] An electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed herein comprises: a first housing (110) coupled to one side of at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2); a second housing (120) coupled to the other side of the at least one hinge assembly; a hinge housing (150) on which the at least one hinge assembly is seated; and a cap member (170) coupled to one end in the longitudinal direction of the hinge housing, wherein the hinge housing comprises: a first region (152_r1) coupled to the cap member; a second region (152_r2) on which a first portion of the cap member is seated; a third region (152_r3) on which a second portion of the cap member is seated; and a first partition (153_w1) disposed between the first region and the second region. and includes a second partition (153_w2) disposed between the first region and the third region, wherein the first partition and the second partition are at least partially surrounded by the cap member and can be engaged with the cap member.

[0090] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the first partition and the second partition may protrude in a first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction from a first seating surface (152_sr1) that is coupled to the cap member of the first region.

[0091] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the second region may include a second seating surface (152_sr2) that protrudes further in the first direction than the first seating surface, and the third region may include a third seating surface (152_sr3) that protrudes further in the first direction than the first seating surface.

[0092] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the first partition wall may protrude further in the first direction than the second seating surface, and the second partition wall may protrude further in the first direction than the third seating surface.

[0093] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the cap member may include a first recess (170_rc1) in which at least a portion of the first partition wall is received and a second recess (170_rc2) in which at least a portion of the second partition wall is received.

[0094] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the cap member includes a connecting portion (170_co) formed between the first recess and the second recess, and the connecting portion may protrude in a second direction toward the first seating surface.

[0095] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the first portion of the cap member may include a first protrusion (170_sp1) that forms the first recess together with the coupling portion, and the second portion of the cap member may include a second protrusion (170_sp2) that forms the second recess together with the coupling portion.

[0096] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, a first locking structure is formed by the engagement of the first partition and the first recess, and a second locking structure is formed by the engagement of the second partition and the second recess, and the coupling portion can be coupled to the first seating surface in a manner that is aligned with the first locking structure and the second locking structure.

[0097] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the coupling portion may protrude further in the second direction than the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

[0098] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the coupling member may be arranged such that at least one side faces the first partition wall and the other side faces the second partition wall.

[0099] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the first protrusion may include a first protruding surface that contacts a second seating surface formed in the second region, and the second protrusion may include a second protruding surface that contacts a third seating surface formed in the third region.

[0100] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the second seating surface and the third seating surface may be formed at an angle with respect to the first seating surface, the end surface of the first protrusion may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the second seating surface, and the end surface of the second protrusion may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the third seating surface.

[0101] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the second mounting surface may be formed to be inclined at a positive angle with respect to the first mounting surface, and the third mounting surface may be formed to be inclined at a negative angle with respect to the first mounting surface.

[0102] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the cap member may further include a dustproof member (180) disposed to fill at least a portion of the space between the first housing and the hinge housing and at least a portion of the space between the second housing and the hinge housing.

[0103] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the connecting portion and the first seating surface may be joined by an adhesive member.

[0104] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the first locking structure and the second locking structure may be configured to reduce deformation of at least a portion of the outer surface (154_ow1, 154_ow2, 154_ow3) of the hinge housing when an impact is applied to the hinge housing.

[0105] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the outer surface of the hinge housing includes a first outer surface (154_ow1) corresponding to the first region, a second outer surface (154_ow2) corresponding to the second region, and a third outer surface (154_ow3) corresponding to the third region, and the first locking structure may be configured to reduce the impact force applied to the second outer surface, and the second locking structure may be configured to reduce the impact force applied to the third outer surface.

[0106] An electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed herein comprises: a first housing (110) coupled to one side of at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2); a second housing (120) coupled to the other side of the at least one hinge assembly; a hinge housing (250) on which the at least one hinge assembly is seated; and a cap member (270) coupled to one end in the longitudinal direction of the hinge housing, wherein the hinge housing comprises: a first region (252_r1) including a first seating surface (252_sr1) coupled to a central portion (270_cp) of the cap member; and a second region (252_r2) including a second seating surface (252_sr2) on which a side portion (270_lp) of the cap member is seated. A third region (252_r3) comprising a third seating surface (252_sr3) on which the other side (270_rp) of the cap member is seated; and a first partition (253_w) protruding in a first direction toward the central portion from the first seating surface, wherein the first region is separated into two regions by the first partition, and the first partition is at least partially surrounded by the cap member and can be engaged with the cap member.

[0107] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the central portion of the cap member includes a first protrusion (270_p1) and a second protrusion (270_p2) that protrude spaced apart from each other to form a first recess (270_rc), and the first protrusion and the second protrusion protrude in a second direction toward the first seating surface, and at least a portion of the first partition wall engages with the first recess, and the alignment of the cap member and the hinge housing can be maintained.

[0108] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, the second seating surface and the third seating surface are formed with a step difference from the first seating surface, and the cap member may include a first stepped surface (270_s1) formed with a step difference from the first protruding surface of the first protrusion so as to contact the second seating surface, and a second stepped surface (270_s2) formed with a step difference from the second protruding surface of the second protrusion so as to contact the third seating surface.

Claims

1. In an electronic device, A first housing (110) coupled to one side of at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2); A second housing (120) coupled to the other side of the above at least one hinge assembly; A hinge housing (150) on which the above-mentioned at least one hinge assembly is seated; and It includes a cap member (170) coupled to one end in the longitudinal direction of the hinge housing, and The above hinge housing is, A first region (152_r1) coupled with the above-mentioned cap member; A second region (152_r2) on which the first part of the above-mentioned cap member is seated; A third region (152_r3) on which the second part of the above-mentioned cap member is seated; A first partition wall (153_w1) disposed between the first region and the second region; and It includes a second partition (153_w2) disposed between the first region and the third region, and An electronic device in which the first partition and the second partition are at least partially surrounded by the cap member and engaged with the cap member.

2. In Claim 1, The electronic device, wherein the first partition and the second partition protrude in a first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction from a first seating surface (152_sr1) that is coupled to the cap member of the first region.

3. In Claim 2, The second region includes a second seating surface (152_sr2) that protrudes further in the first direction than the first seating surface, and The electronic device, wherein the third region comprises a third mounting surface (152_sr3) that protrudes further in the first direction than the first mounting surface.

4. In Claim 3, The first bulkhead protrudes further in the first direction than the second seating surface, and The electronic device, wherein the second bulkhead protrudes further in the first direction than the third seating surface.

5. In Claim 2, The above-described cap member comprises a first recess (170_rc1) in which at least a portion of the first partition wall is received and a second recess (170_rc2) in which at least a portion of the second partition wall is received, in an electronic device.

6. In Claim 5, The above cap member includes a connecting portion (170_co) formed between the first recess and the second recess, and The above-mentioned coupling portion protrudes in a second direction toward the first seating surface, an electronic device.

7. In Claim 6, The first portion of the cap member includes a first protrusion (170_sp1) that forms the first recess together with the coupling portion, and The electronic device, wherein the second portion of the cap member comprises a second protrusion (170_sp2) that forms the second recess together with the coupling portion.

8. In Claim 7, A first locking structure is formed by the interlocking of the first bulkhead and the first recess, and A second locking structure is formed by the interlocking of the second bulkhead and the second recess, and The above-mentioned coupling portion is coupled to the first seating surface in alignment through the first locking structure and the second locking structure, an electronic device.

9. In Claim 7, The above-mentioned coupling portion protrudes further in the second direction than the first protrusion and the second protrusion, in an electronic device.

10. In Claim 7, The above-mentioned coupling portion is an electronic device arranged such that at least one side faces the first partition and the other side faces the second partition.

11. In Claim 7, The first protrusion includes a first protruding surface that contacts a second seating surface formed in the second region, and The electronic device, wherein the second protrusion comprises a second protruding surface that contacts a third seating surface formed in the third region.

12. In claim 8, An electronic device, wherein the first locking structure and the second locking structure are configured to reduce deformation of at least a portion of the outer surface (154_ow1, 154_ow2, 154_ow3) of the hinge housing when an impact is applied to the hinge housing.

13. In Claim 12, The outer surface of the hinge housing comprises a first outer surface (154_ow1) corresponding to the first region, a second outer surface (154_ow2) corresponding to the second region, and a third outer surface (154_ow3) corresponding to the third region. The first locking structure is configured to reduce the impact force applied to the second outer surface, and An electronic device in which the above-mentioned second locking structure is configured to reduce the impact force applied to the above-mentioned third outer surface.

14. In electronic devices, A first housing (110) coupled to one side of at least one hinge assembly (140, 140-1, 140-2); A second housing (120) coupled to the other side of the above at least one hinge assembly; A hinge housing (250) on which the above-mentioned at least one hinge assembly is seated; and It includes a cap member (270) coupled to one end in the longitudinal direction of the above hinge housing, and The above hinge housing is, A first region (252_r1) including a first seating surface (252_sr1) coupled to the central portion (270_cp) of the cap member; A second region (252_r2) including a second seating surface (252_sr2) on which one side (270_lp) of the above-mentioned cap member is seated; A third region (252_r3) including a third seating surface (252_sr3) on which the other side (270_rp) of the cap member is seated; and It includes a first partition wall (253_w) protruding in a first direction toward the central part from the first seating surface, and The first region is separated into two regions by the first partition, and The first partition is at least partially surrounded by the cap member and engages with the cap member, an electronic device.

15. In Claim 14, The central portion of the above-mentioned cap member includes a first protrusion (270_p1) and a second protrusion (270_p2) that protrude spaced apart from each other to form a first recess (270_rc), and The first protrusion and the second protrusion protrude in a second direction toward the first seating surface, and An electronic device in which at least a portion of the first bulkhead engages with the first recess and the alignment of the cap member and the hinge housing is maintained.

Images