Electronic device including hinge

Abstract

An electronic device according to an embodiment may comprise a foldable housing, a hinge structure, and a flexible display. The hinge structure may comprise: a first gear including a first shaft, a second shaft; a first hollow part, and a first shaft extension part protruding in the axial direction along the periphery of the first hollow part; a second gear including a second hollow part and a second shaft extension part protruding in the axial direction along the periphery of the second hollow part; a pair of idle gears disposed to be tooth-engaged with the first gear and the second gear; and a gear bracket including a first gear insertion hole and a second gear insertion hole. According to the rotation position of the first gear, the first shaft extension part may move in the first gear insertion hole in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear and toward the idle gears.

Description

Electronic device including a hinge

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device including a hinge.

[0002] Driven by remarkable advancements in information and communication technology and semiconductor technology, the distribution and use of various electronic devices are increasing rapidly. In particular, recent electronic devices are being developed to enable portable communication.

[0003] The term "electronic device" refers to a device that performs specific functions according to an installed program, ranging from home appliances to electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, video / audio devices, desktop / laptop computers, and in-car navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as sound or video. As the integration density of electronic devices increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communication becomes commonplace, various functions can now be integrated into a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal. For instance, not only communication functions but also entertainment functions like games, multimedia functions like music / video playback, communication and security functions like mobile banking, and functions such as schedule management or electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device. These electronic devices are being miniaturized to allow users to carry them conveniently.

[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] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing and a second housing, a hinge structure connected to the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display disposed on the first housing and the second housing. The hinge structure may include a first gear comprising a first shaft, a second shaft, a first hollow portion formed to allow the first shaft to pass through, and a first axial extension portion protruding axially along the periphery of the first hollow portion, a second gear comprising a second hollow portion formed to allow the second shaft to pass through, and a second axial extension portion protruding axially along the periphery of the second hollow portion, a pair of idler gears disposed to mesh with the first gear and the second gear between the first gear and the second gear, and a gear bracket comprising a first gear insertion hole formed to allow the first axial extension portion to be inserted and a second gear insertion hole formed to allow the second axial extension portion to be inserted. Depending on the rotational position of the first gear, the first shaft extension may move within the first gear insertion hole in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear and toward the idler gear.

[0006] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing and a second housing, a hinge structure connected to the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display disposed on the first housing and the second housing. The hinge structure may include a first gear comprising a first shaft, a second shaft, a first hollow portion formed to allow the first shaft to pass through, and a first axial extension portion protruding axially along the periphery of the first hollow portion, a second gear comprising a second hollow portion formed to allow the second shaft to pass through, and a second axial extension portion protruding axially along the periphery of the second hollow portion, a pair of idler gears disposed to mesh with the first gear and the second gear between the first gear and the second gear, and a gear bracket comprising a first gear insertion hole formed to allow the first axial extension portion to be inserted and a second gear insertion hole formed to allow the second axial extension portion to be inserted. The circumference of the first gear insertion hole forms a first pressure portion and a first curved portion extending from both ends of the first pressure portion, and the outer surface of the first shaft extension portion may include a first recessed portion, a second recessed portion spaced apart from each other, and a first pressure portion located between the first recessed portion and the second recessed portion in a cylindrical shape. When the first pressure portion is positioned on the first pressure portion, the first gear can move toward the idler gear.

[0007] The effects obtainable from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure belong from the description below. That is, unintended effects resulting from the implementation of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2a is a front perspective view of an electronic device in a first state according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2b is a rear perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device in a second state according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a hinge module included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge module included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a side view of an arm of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a view of the gear of a hinge module according to one embodiment, seen in the direction P of FIG. 7.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a bracket of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the state in which a first gear, a second gear, and an idler gear are coupled to a bracket according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIGS. 11a, FIGS. 11b, FIGS. 11c, FIGS. 11d, FIGS. 11e and FIGS. 11f are drawings for explaining the operation of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIGS. 12a and FIGS. 12b are drawings for exemplarily illustrating the movement of a first gear during the operation of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIGS. 13a and FIGS. 13b are unfolded drawings of a first arm, a second arm, and a support bracket of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the state in which the first arm and the second arm are coupled to the support bracket of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 15 is a plan view of a hinge module of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the rotate bracket of FIG. 15 according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIGS. 17a and FIGS. 17b are drawings illustrating a first arm, a second arm, and a cam portion in a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of a multi-foldable electronic device in a first state according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of a multi-foldable electronic device in a first state according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a multi-foldable electronic device in a second state according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0030] In the following description, the attached drawings are referenced, and specific examples of implementation are illustrated within the drawings. Additionally, other examples may be used and structural modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the various examples.

[0031] The various embodiments used to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure in FIGS. 1 through 21 disclosed below and in this patent document are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented in any system or device appropriately arranged.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice them. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and brevity.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In one embodiment, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In one embodiment, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0035] The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., a program (140)), and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and an auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use lower power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as part thereof.

[0036] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., display module (160), sensor module (176), or communication module (190)) on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (180) or communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence is performed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers.An artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0037] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (140)) and related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0038] The program (140) may be stored as software in memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0039] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120)) from outside the electronic device (101) (e.g., user). The input module (150) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0040] The sound output module (155) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The sound output module (155) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0041] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a hall area-gram device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

[0042] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150) or output sound through the sound output module (155) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (101).

[0043] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (101) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0044] The interface (177) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (101) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0045] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0046] The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that can be perceived by the user through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0047] The camera module (180) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0048] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0049] The battery (189) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0050] The communication module (190) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (104) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0051] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (192) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for URLLC realization.

[0052] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to one embodiment, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0054] 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.

[0055] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between an electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102, or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0056] FIG. 2a is a front perspective view of an electronic device in a first state according to one embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 2b is a rear perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device in a second state according to one embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a part of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0060] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 2a, 2b, 3, and 4 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 5 through 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 2a, 2b, 3, and 4.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 2a, 2b, 3, and 4, an electronic device (200) (or foldable electronic device) according to one embodiment may include all or part (e.g., at least one) of a foldable housing (210, 220), a display (260) (e.g., a flexible display or a foldable display), a hinge structure (300) (or a hinge portion) or a hinge housing (230) (e.g., a portion accommodating a hinge or a hinge structure (300)). The foldable housing (210, 220) may include a first housing (210) (or a first housing portion) and a second housing (220) (or a second housing portion). FIG. 2a illustrates a perspective view of a first state (e.g., a flat state, an unfolded state, or a spread-out state) of the electronic device (200). FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device (200) in a second state (e.g., folded state, closed state, or fully folded state).

[0062] Here, the first state may refer to a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are located on the same plane. In the first state, the angle formed by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be 180 degrees (e.g., substantially 180 degrees).

[0063] Here, the second state may refer to a state in which one side of the first housing (210) and one side of the second housing (220) face each other. The second state may refer to a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are superimposed by a hinge structure (300).

[0064] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may be folded in at least one of an in-folding method, an out-folding method, and an in / out-folding method. The in-folding method is a method of folding the display (260) inward so that the displays (260) face each other, the out-folding method is a method of folding the display (260) outward so that the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) face each other, and the in / out-folding method may be a method of folding a part of the display (260) inward and folding the remainder of the display (260) outward. Hereinafter, an electronic device of the in-folding method, in which the display (260) is folded inward, will be described as an example.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first cover (219) covering the rear portion of a first housing (210) and a second cover (229) covering the rear portion of a second housing (220). In a second state, the first cover (219) and the second cover (229) may be arranged to face in opposite directions.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the display (260) may include a first area (261) (or first part), a second area (262) (or second part), and an intermediate area (263) (or intermediate part). The first area (261) may be an area located on the front of the first housing (210). The second area (262) may be an area located on the front of the second housing (220). The intermediate area (263) may be an area located between the first area (261) and the second area (262). The first area (261) and the second area (262) may be spaced apart with the intermediate area (263) in between. When the electronic device (200) is in a second state, the first region (261) of the display (260) located on the front of the first housing (210) can be folded to face the second region (262) of the display (260) located on the second housing (220). When the electronic device (200) is in a second state, the intermediate region (263) can be bent or folded.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may be formed with at least a portion of a metal material or at least a portion of a non-metal material. The first housing (210) may be formed of a material having a certain rigidity to support at least a portion of the display (260). A portion of the first region (261) and the intermediate region (263) of the display (260) may be disposed on the front of the first housing (210). At least a portion of the front edge of the first housing (210) (e.g., a border or a portion of the perimeter) may be bonded to the edge (e.g., a border or a portion of the perimeter) of the first region (261) of the display (260). Additionally, a portion of the front of the first housing (210) may be bonded to the first region (261) of the display (260).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be formed with at least a portion of a metal material or at least a portion of a non-metal material. The second housing (220) may be formed of a material having a certain rigidity to support at least a portion of the display (260). A portion of the second region (262) and the intermediate region (263) of the display (260) may be disposed on the front of the second housing (220). At least a portion of the front edge (e.g., a border or a portion of the perimeter) of the first housing (210) may be bonded to the edge (e.g., a border or a portion of the perimeter) of the second region (262) of the display (260). Alternatively, a portion of the front of the second housing (220) may be bonded to the second region (262) of the display (260).

[0069] A space (e.g., volume, area, portion) for accommodating electronic components may be formed inside the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). Electronic elements required for driving the display (260), such as a printed circuit board, a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1), a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1), and a battery (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1), may be placed within the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (300) may be arranged to be connected to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The hinge structure (300) may be arranged to rotate the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220) when the electronic device (200) operates between a first state and a second state. One side of the hinge structure (300) may be coupled to the first housing (210). The other side of the hinge structure (300) may be coupled to the second housing (220). The first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be rotated around the hinge structure (300).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the hinge structure (300) may include at least one hinge module (310) (or hinge component). The hinge structure (300) may include a first hinge module (310) and a second hinge module (310). The first hinge module (310) and the second hinge module (310) may be spaced apart from each other within the hinge housing (230). The number of hinge modules included in the hinge structure (300) is not limited thereto, and the hinge structure (300) may include three or more hinge modules.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the hinge housing (230) may be positioned to accommodate the hinge structure (300). The hinge housing (230) may be positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The edge portion of the first housing (210) facing the second housing (220) may include a recessed portion having at least a certain curvature so that at least a portion of the hinge housing (230) can be positioned or accommodated. The edge portion of the second housing (220) facing the first housing (210) may include a recessed portion having at least a certain curvature so that at least a portion of the hinge housing (230) can be positioned or accommodated.

[0073] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a hinge module included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0074] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge module included in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0075] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIGS. 1 through 4 and FIGS. 7 through 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0076] The shape of the hinge module illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 is exemplary for convenience of explanation, and the structure, shape, and arrangement of the illustrated hinge module do not limit the scope of the rights of the present disclosure.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 5, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a) may include a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure (300) of FIG. 4). The hinge structure (300) may include at least one hinge module (500) (e.g., the hinge module (310) of FIG. 4). The hinge module (500) shown in FIG. 5 may be substantially identical to the hinge module of FIG. 4 (e.g., the hinge module (310) of FIG. 4).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (500) may include at least one of a gear structure (510) (or gear arrangement), a support structure (520) (or a first bracket), a gear bracket (530) (or a second bracket), a first arm (540) (or a first elongated member), a second arm (550) (or a second elongated member), and a support bracket (560) (or a third bracket). The hinge module (500) may support the electronic device (200) to be folded or unfolded in an intermediate state between the first state (e.g., unfolded state) and the second state (e.g., folded state), as well as in a first state or a second state of the electronic device (200).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the gear structure (510) may be coupled with the first arm (540) and the second arm (550). The gear structure (510) may transmit or provide force so that the second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) in FIG. 2a) rotates together with the first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) in FIG. 2a) when the first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) in FIG. 2a) rotates. The gear structure (510) may transmit force so that the second arm (550) rotates together with the first arm (540) when the first arm (540) rotates. The gear structure (510) may be configured to support simultaneous hinge movement of the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The gear structure (510) may suppress twisting between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) by causing the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) to move together.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the gear structure (510) may include a plurality of gears (e.g., a first gear set) and an idler gear (e.g., a second gear set). The first arm (540) and the second arm (550) may be rotated together by the rotation of the gears of the gear structure (510). The first arm (540) and the second arm (550) may be rotated symmetrically with respect to the centerline of the hinge module (500) by the gear structure (510).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the gear structure (510) may include a first gear (511), a second gear (512), an idler gear (513) (or a third gear), a first shaft (514), and a second shaft (515).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the first gear (511) may include a first hollow portion (5111) (or a first opening) and a first shaft extension portion (5112) (or a first shaft portion, a first protrusion, a first guide portion). The first gear (511) may be arranged to mesh with an idler gear (513). According to one embodiment, the first hollow portion (5111) may be formed so that a first shaft (514) passes through it.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the first gear (511) may be coupled to the first arm (540). The first gear (511) may be coupled to rotate together with the first arm (540). The first arm (540) may rotate around the axis of rotation of the first gear (511). The first gear (511) may be formed integrally with the first arm (540), but is not limited thereto, and may be manufactured separately and then coupled to the first arm (540).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the first axial extension (5112) may be a portion formed to extend axially from the first gear (511). The first axial extension (5112) may protrude axially along the periphery of the first hollow portion (5111). The first axial extension (5112) may extend along the axial direction of the first gear (511) from the edge defining the first hollow portion (5111). The first axial extension (5112) may be formed to wrap around the circumference of the first shaft (514). The first axial extension (5112) may have a roughly ring-shaped cross-section.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the first gear (511) may receive power from the rotational movement of the first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2a). When the user closes or opens the electronic device (200) between the first state and the second state, the first gear (511) may be rotated.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the second gear (512) may include a second hollow portion (5121) (or a second opening) and a second shaft extension portion (5122) (or a second shaft portion, a second protrusion, a second guide portion). The second gear (512) may be arranged to mesh with an idler gear (513). According to one embodiment, the second hollow portion (5121) may be formed so that a second shaft (515) passes through it.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the second gear (512) may be coupled to the second arm (550). The second gear (512) may be coupled to rotate together with the second arm (550). The second arm (550) may rotate around the axis of rotation of the second gear (512). The second gear (512) may be formed integrally with the second arm (550), but is not limited thereto, and may be manufactured separately and then coupled to the second arm (550).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the second axis extension (5122) may be a portion formed to extend axially from the second gear (512). The second axis extension (5122) may protrude axially along the periphery of the second hollow portion (5121). The second axis extension (5122) may extend along the axial direction of the second gear (512) from the edge defining the second hollow portion (5121). The second axis extension (5122) may be formed to wrap around the circumference of the second shaft (515). The second axis extension (5122) may have a roughly ring-shaped cross-section.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the second gear (512) may receive power from the rotational movement of the second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) of FIG. 2a). When the user folds or unfolds the electronic device (200) between the first state and the second state, the second gear (512) may be rotated.

[0090] According to one embodiment, an idler gear (513) may be positioned between a first gear (511) and a second gear (512). The idler gear (513) may be positioned to mesh with the first gear and the second gear (512).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the idler gear (513) may be configured as a pair. A pair of idler gears (513) meshed with each other may each mesh with a first gear (511) and a second gear (512).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the idler gear (513) may be configured to transmit rotational power to the other of the first gear (511) or the second gear (512) when either the first gear (511) or the second gear (512) is rotated. The idler gear (513) may be configured to transmit power from the first gear (511) to the second gear (512) or power from the second gear (512) to the first gear (511) as an intermediate medium. The first gear (511) and the second gear (512) coupled to the idler gear (513) may be rotated in opposite directions.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the first shaft (514) may be arranged to sequentially penetrate the gear bracket (530), the first gear (511), the first cam (522), the first elastic member (5211), the support plate (523), and the first arm hole (540b). The first shaft (514) may be arranged to penetrate the first hollow portion (5111) of the first gear (511). The first shaft (514) may be arranged to penetrate the first axial extension portion (5112) of the first gear (511). The longitudinal direction of the first shaft (514) may be substantially parallel to the extension direction of the first axial extension portion (5112).

[0094] According to one embodiment, the second shaft (515) may be positioned to sequentially penetrate the gear bracket (530), the second gear (512), the first cam (522), the second elastic member (5212), the support plate (523), and the second arm hole (550b). The second shaft (515) may be positioned to penetrate the second hollow portion (5121) of the second gear (512). The second shaft (515) may be positioned to penetrate the second axial extension portion (5122) of the second gear (512). The longitudinal direction of the second shaft (515) may be substantially parallel to the extension direction of the second axial extension portion (5122). The first cam (522) and the support plate (523) may be referred to together as the cam portion (522, 523).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the support structure (520) may be positioned to be fixed within a hinge housing (e.g., the hinge housing (230) of FIG. 4). The support structure (520) may be configured to provide a specified pressure to the first arm (540) and the second arm (550). The support structure (520) may include at least one elastic body and support cam operation by engaging with the rotational cam structure of the first arm (540) and the second arm (550) as the cam portions (522, 523) of the support structure (520) are pushed toward the first arm (540) and the second arm (550) based on the elastic force of the elastic body.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the support structure (520) may include a plurality of elastic members (521) and cam portions (522, 523).

[0097] According to one embodiment, a plurality of elastic members (521) may include at least one of a first elastic member (5211), a second elastic member (5212), a third elastic member (5213), or a fourth elastic member (5214). At least one of the first elastic member (5211), the second elastic member (5212), the third elastic member (5213), or the fourth elastic member (5214) may be a spring.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the first elastic member (5211) may be arranged to extend along the axial direction of the first gear (511). The first elastic member (5211) may be formed so that the first shaft (514) passes through it.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the second elastic member (5212) may be arranged to extend along the axial direction of the second gear (512). The second elastic member (5212) may be formed so that the second shaft (515) passes through it.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the third elastic member (5213) and the fourth elastic member (5214) may each be arranged to extend along the axial direction of each of the pair of idler gears (513). The third elastic member (5213) and the fourth elastic member (5214) may be arranged adjacently. The third elastic member (5213) may be arranged between the first elastic member (5211) and the fourth elastic member (5214). The fourth elastic member (5214) may be arranged between the second elastic member (5212) and the third elastic member (5213). According to some embodiments, the configuration of the third elastic member (5213) and the fourth elastic member (5214) may be omitted from the hinge module (500).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the cam portion (522, 523) may include a first cam (522) and a support plate (523). The first cam (522) may be coupled to one end of a plurality of elastic members (521). The support plate (523) may be coupled to the other end of a plurality of elastic members (521). The first cam (522) and the support plate (523) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other with a plurality of elastic members (521) in between. The first cam (522) and the support plate (523) may be arranged substantially parallel to each other.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the first cam (522) may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the first gear (511), the second gear (512), and the idler gear (513). The first cam (522) may include a plurality of holes formed to allow the first shaft (514) and the second shaft (515) to pass through.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the support plate (523) may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the first arm hole (540b) of the first arm (540), the second arm hole (550b) of the second arm (550), and the support bracket (560). The support plate (523) may include a plurality of holes formed to allow the first shaft (514) and the second shaft (515) to pass through. The support plate (523) may support a plurality of elastic members (521) and be replaced by a second cam positioned on the opposite side of the first cam (522).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the gear bracket (530) may include a first gear insertion hole (531) (e.g., a first hole or a first gear guide), a second gear insertion hole (532) (e.g., a second hole or a second gear guide), and a plurality of idler gear insertion holes (533) (e.g., a third hole or an idler gear guide). The gear bracket (530) may be spaced apart from the support bracket (560). The gear bracket (530) and the support bracket (560) may be spaced apart with the support structure (520) and the gear structure (510) in between.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the first gear insertion hole (531) may be formed so that the first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear (511) is inserted. The first gear insertion hole (531) may be formed so that the first shaft (514) passes through it. The first gear insertion hole (531) may be formed so that the first shaft (514) and the first shaft extension (5112) surrounding the first shaft (514) are inserted.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the second gear insertion hole (532) may be formed so that the second shaft extension (5122) of the second gear (512) is inserted. The second gear insertion hole (532) may be formed so that the second shaft (515) passes through it. The second gear insertion hole (532) may be formed so that the second shaft (515) and the second shaft extension (5122) surrounding the second shaft (515) are inserted.

[0107] According to one embodiment, a plurality of idler gear insertion holes (533) may be disposed between a first gear insertion hole (531) and a second gear insertion hole (532). The plurality of idler gear insertion holes (533) may be formed so that an axial extension (5131) of an idler gear (513) is inserted.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the first arm (540) may form a first receiving portion (540a). A portion of the support structure (520) may be received in the first receiving portion (540a). The first arm (540) may be coupled with the first gear (511) so as to rotate together with the rotation of the first gear (511). The first arm (540) may be referred to as the first rotating body.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the first arm (540) may include a first arm hole (540b). The first arm hole (540b) may be formed so that the first shaft (514) passes through it. The first arm hole (540b) may be positioned so that a virtual line extending the rotation axis of the first gear (511) passes through it. The shape of the first arm hole (540b) may be substantially the same as the shape of the first hollow portion (5111) of the first gear (511).

[0110] According to one embodiment, the first arm (540) may include a first arm extension (541). The first arm extension (541) may extend along the axial direction of the first gear (511) or the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (514). The first arm extension (541) may protrude in a direction opposite to the direction of the first gear (511). The first arm extension (541) may extend in a direction toward the support bracket (560). The first arm extension (541) may protrude along the periphery of the first arm hole (540b) along the axial direction of the first gear (511) or the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (514). The first arm extension (541) may extend along the axial direction of the first gear (511) or the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (514) from the edge defining the first arm hole (540b). The first arm extension (541) may be formed to wrap around the circumference of the first shaft (514). The first arm extension (541) may have a roughly ring-shaped cross-section.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the second arm (550) may form a second receiving portion (550a). A portion of the support structure (520) may be received in the second receiving portion (550a). The second arm (550) may be coupled with the second gear (512) so as to rotate together with the rotation of the second gear (512). The second arm (550) may be referred to as a second rotating body.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the second arm (550) may include a second arm hole (550b). The second arm hole (550b) may be formed so that the second shaft (515) passes through it. The second arm hole (550b) may be positioned so that a virtual line extending the rotation axis of the second gear (512) passes through it. The shape of the second arm hole (550b) may be substantially the same as the shape of the second hollow portion (5121) of the second gear (512).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the second arm (550) may include a second arm extension (551). The second arm extension (551) may extend along the axial direction of the second gear (512) or the longitudinal direction of the second shaft (515). The second arm extension (551) may protrude in the opposite direction to the second gear (512) side. The second arm extension (551) may extend in the direction to the support bracket (560) side. The second arm extension (551) may protrude along the periphery of the second arm hole (550b) along the axial direction of the second gear (512) or the longitudinal direction of the second shaft (515). The second arm extension (551) may extend along the axial direction of the second gear (512) or the longitudinal direction of the second shaft (515) from the edge defining the second arm hole (550b). The second arm extension (551) may be formed to wrap around the circumference of the second shaft (515). The second arm extension (551) may have a cross-section that is approximately ring-shaped.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the support bracket (560) may include a first arm insertion hole (561) and a second arm insertion hole (562). The first arm insertion hole (561) may be formed to allow the first arm extension (541) to be inserted. The second arm insertion hole (562) may be formed to allow the second arm extension (551) to be inserted. A first shaft (514) may be positioned to penetrate the first arm insertion hole (561). A second shaft (515) may be positioned to penetrate the second arm insertion hole (562).

[0115] FIG. 7 is a side view of an arm of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0116] FIG. 8 is a view of the gear of a hinge module according to one embodiment, seen in the direction P of FIG. 7.

[0117] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a bracket of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0118] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the state in which a first gear, a second gear, and an idler gear are coupled to a bracket according to one embodiment.

[0119] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 7 through 10 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIGS. 1 through 6 and FIGS. 11a through 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6.

[0120] For configurations shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 that are substantially identical to configurations shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the same reference numbers are used.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 10, an electronic device according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a) may include at least one of a first arm (540), a second arm (550), a gear bracket (530), a first gear (511), a second gear (512), and an idler gear (513).

[0122] FIG. 7 illustrates the first arm (540), but the description of FIG. 7 can also be applied to the second arm (550) having a symmetrical structure with respect to the first arm (540).

[0123] According to one embodiment, the first arm (540) may include a first body portion (542), a first wing portion (543), and a first cam support portion (544) (see FIG. 7). The first wing portion (543) may be formed to extend outwardly from the first body portion (542). The first wing portion (543) may be positioned to support a first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) of FIG. 2a). The first cam support portion (544) may extend to one side from the first body portion (542). The first cam support portion (544) may be positioned to support a cam portion (e.g., the support plate (523) of FIG. 6).

[0124] According to one embodiment, a shaft (e.g., the first shaft (514) of FIG. 6) may be positioned to penetrate the first cam support (544) of the first arm (540).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the first arm (540) may include a first arm extension (541). The first arm extension (541) may extend from the first cam support (544). The center of the first arm extension (541) may be substantially the same as the axis of rotation of the first gear (511). The first arm extension (541) may be formed to wrap around the outer surface of the first shaft (514) that penetrates the first cam support (544). The first arm extension (541) may extend along the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the first gear (511) may include a first hollow portion (5111) and a first shaft extension portion (5112) (see FIG. 8). As illustrated, the first gear (511) may be formed integrally with the first arm (540) or formed as part of the first arm (540). However, it is not limited thereto and may be manufactured separately and then coupled to the first arm (540).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the outer surface of the first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear (511) may include a first recess (5112a) (or first deformation part), a second recess (5112b) (or second deformation part), and a first pressure part (5112c) (or first elongated part or first fillet). The first recess (5112a) and the second recess (5112b) may be spaced apart with the first pressure part (5112c) in between. The first pressure part (5112c) may be located between the first recess (5112a) and the second recess (5112b). For example, the first recess (5112a) may be flat or curved or may include a flat or curved surface. For example, the second recess (5112b) may be flat or curved or may include a flat surface. The first pressurizing part (5112c) is formed to protrude radially outward compared to the first recessed part (5112a) and the second recessed part (5112b), so it may be referred to as the first protrusion.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the gear bracket (530) may include a first gear insertion hole (531), a second gear insertion hole (532), and a pair of idler gear insertion holes (533). The shaft of the idler gear (513) may be inserted into the pair of idler gear insertion holes (533).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the circumference of the first gear insertion hole (531) may include a first pressure portion (531a) and a first curved portion (531b). The first curved portion (531b) may be formed by extending from both ends of the first pressure portion (531a). The first pressure portion (531a) may be formed to protrude inwardly toward the first gear insertion hole (531) when compared to the first curved portion (531b). If the first pressure portion (531a) is formed as a curved surface, the curvature of the first pressure portion (531a) may be smaller than the curvature of the first curved portion (531b). If the first pressure portion (531a) is formed as a flat surface, it may be referred to as the first flat surface.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the circumference of the second gear insertion hole (532) may include a second pressure portion (532a) and a second curved portion (532b). The second curved portion (532b) may be formed by extending from both ends of the second pressure portion (532a). The second pressure portion (532a) may be formed to protrude inwardly toward the second gear insertion hole (532) when compared to the second curved portion (532b). If the second pressure portion (532a) is formed as a curved surface, the curvature of the second pressure portion (532a) may be smaller than the curvature of the second curved portion (532b). If the second pressure portion (532a) is formed as a flat surface, it may be referred to as a second flat surface.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the first pressure-applied portion (531a) and the second pressure-applied portion (532a) may be positioned to face opposite sides. For example, the first pressure-applied portion (531a) may be positioned in a direction facing the first housing (e.g., the first housing (210) in FIG. 2a) around the first gear insertion hole (531). For example, the second pressure-applied portion (532a) may be positioned in a direction facing the second housing (e.g., the second housing (220) in FIG. 2a) around the second gear insertion hole (532).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear (511) may be positioned to be movable while inserted into the first gear insertion hole (531). The first shaft extension (5112) may be positioned to be movable within the first gear insertion hole (531). The first gear insertion hole (531) may form or include additional clearance space to allow the first shaft extension (5112) to move.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the second shaft extension (5122) of the second gear (512) may be positioned to be movable while inserted into the second gear insertion hole (532). The second shaft extension (5122) may be positioned to be movable within the second gear insertion hole (532). The second gear insertion hole (532) may form or include additional clearance space to allow the second shaft extension (5122) to move.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the first gear (511) can be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) depending on the rotational position while the first shaft extension (5112) is inserted into the first gear insertion hole (531) of the gear bracket (530). For example, when the first pressing portion (5112c) of the first shaft extension (5112) presses the first pressurized portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531), the first gear (511) can move toward the idler gear (513).

[0135] According to one embodiment, when the first pressurizing part (5112c) is positioned on the first pressurized part (531a) or moves to the first pressurized part (531a) by the rotation of the first gear (511), the first gear (511) may move toward the idler gear (513). Specific operations will be described later.

[0136] FIGS. 11a, FIGS. 11b, FIGS. 11c, FIGS. 11d, FIGS. 11e and FIGS. 11f are drawings for explaining the operation of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0137] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, and 11f may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIGS. 1 through 10 and FIGS. 12a through 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, and 11f.

[0138] FIGS. 11a, FIGS. 11b, FIGS. 11c, FIGS. 11d, FIGS. 11e and FIGS. 11f are drawings for explaining the operation process of a hinge module (500) when an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or electronic device (200) of FIG. 2 or a foldable housing (e.g., foldable housing (210, 220) of FIG. 2a) operates between a first state (e.g., unfolded state) and a second state (e.g., folded state).

[0139] The first gear (511) and the second gear (512) are formed symmetrically with respect to the center, and the first gear insertion hole (531) and the second gear insertion hole (532) can also be formed symmetrically with respect to the center. Although the following description focuses on the first gear (511) and the first gear insertion hole (531), this can be applied equally to the second gear (512) and the second gear insertion hole (532).

[0140] When the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is rotated from a first state to a second state, the hinge module (500) can operate sequentially from FIG. 11a to FIG. 11f. When the electronic device (200) is rotated from a second state to a first state, the hinge module (500) can operate sequentially from FIG. 11f to FIG. 11a. The foldable housing (210, 220) can be rotated to a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state depending on the operation of the hinge module (500).

[0141] FIG. 11a illustrates the arrangement structure of the hinge module (500) when the electronic device (200) is in a first state. FIG. 11b, FIG. 11c, FIG. 11d, and FIG. 11e illustrate the arrangement structure of the hinge module (500) when the electronic device (200) is in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state. FIG. 11f illustrates the arrangement structure of the hinge module (500) when the electronic device (200) is in a second state.

[0142] FIG. 11b illustrates a state in which the first gear (511) and / or the second gear (512) are rotated 20 degrees relative to FIG. 11a. FIG. 11c illustrates a state in which the first gear (511) and / or the second gear (512) are rotated 30 degrees relative to FIG. 11a. FIG. 11d illustrates a state in which the first gear (511) and / or the second gear (512) are rotated 60 degrees relative to FIG. 11a. FIG. 11e illustrates a state in which the first gear (511) and / or the second gear (512) are rotated 70 degrees relative to FIG. 11a. FIG. 11f illustrates a state in which the first gear (511) and / or the second gear (512) are rotated 90 degrees relative to FIG. 11a.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the first shaft extension (5112) may move within the first gear insertion hole (531) depending on the rotational position of the first gear (511). The first shaft extension (5112) may move within the first gear insertion hole (531) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) toward the idler gear (513) or away from the idler gear (513).

[0144] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in an intermediate state, the first axis extension (5112) presses against the circumference of the first gear insertion hole (531) so that the first gear (511) can be moved toward the idler gear (513).

[0145] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in a folded or unfolded state, a gap may be formed between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513). When the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in a folded state, the first recess (5112a) of the first axis extension (5112) may be located on or adjacent to the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531). When the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in an unfolded state, the second recess (5112b) of the first axis extension (5112) may be located on or adjacent to the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531).

[0146] Referring to FIG. 11a, when the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in an unfolded state, the first recess (5112a) of the first axis extension (5112) may be located on the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531). At this time, a gap may be formed between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513).

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 11b through 11e, when the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in an intermediate state between an unfolded state and a folded state, the first pressing part (5112c) of the first axis extension (5112) may be positioned on the first pressure-receiving part (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531). At this time, by the first pressing part (5112c) pressing the first pressure-receiving part (531a), the first axis extension (5112) may be moved in the opposite direction of the first pressure-receiving part (531a). The first gear (511) may also be moved in the opposite direction of the first pressure-receiving part (531a) together with the first axis extension (5112).

[0148] When the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in an intermediate state, the first gear (511) is moved toward the idle gear (513), thereby reducing or eliminating the gap between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513). By the structure of the first gear (511) and the first gear insertion hole (531) that reduces the gap between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513) in the intermediate state, the gap that occurs when the user folds or unfolds the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) can be improved, thereby improving the user experience. According to one embodiment, by reducing or eliminating the gap between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513) in an intermediate state to improve play, the shaking of the electronic device (200) caused by the gap between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513) can be improved when the user uses the electronic device (200) while maintaining it in an intermediate state.

[0149] Referring to FIG. 11f, when the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in a folded state, the second recess (5112b) of the first axis extension (5112) may be located on or in contact with the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531). At this time, a gap may be formed between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513).

[0150] When the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is in an unfolded or folded state, the first recess (5112a) or the second recess (5112b) may be positioned on the first pressure portion (531a) to form a gap between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513). In the unfolded or folded state, a gap may be formed between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513) to reduce the load generated between the gears.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the first gear (511) may be positioned closer to the idler gear (513) when the first recess (5112a) and the second recess (5112b) do not contact the first pressure-applied portion (531a) than when the first recess (5112a) or the second recess (5112b) contacts the first pressure-applied portion (531a).

[0152] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) rotates between an unfolded state, a folded state, and an intermediate state, the first axis extension (5112) may be moved relative to the gear bracket (530). The first axis extension (5112) may be moved within the first gear insertion hole (531) when the electronic device (200) rotates around the hinge.

[0153] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is rotated from an unfolded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 11a) to an intermediate state (e.g., one of FIG. 11b to FIG. 11e), the rotation axis of the first axis extension (5112) can move away from the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531).

[0154] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) (or foldable housing (210, 220)) is rotated from an intermediate state to a folded state (e.g., the state of FIG. 11f), the rotation axis of the first axis extension (5112) can move toward the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the relative position of the first gear insertion hole (531) of the first shaft extension (5112) in the unfolded state may be substantially the same as the relative position of the second gear insertion hole (532) of the first shaft extension (5112) in the folded state.

[0156] FIGS. 12a and FIGS. 12b are drawings for exemplarily illustrating the movement of a first gear during the operation of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0157] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 12a and 12b may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIGS. 1 through 11f and FIGS. 13a through 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 12a and 12b.

[0158] FIG. 12a is a drawing for explaining the gap between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513) when the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a) is in an unfolded state. FIG. 12b is a drawing for explaining the gap between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513) when the electronic device (200) is in an intermediate state. FIG. 12a may correspond to FIG. 11a. FIG. 12b may correspond to any one of FIG. 11b through FIG. 11e.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 12a, when the first recess (5112a) of the first shaft extension (5112) is positioned on the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531), a gap (G) between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513) may be formed or exist.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 12b, when the first pressing portion (5112c) of the first shaft extension (5112) is positioned on the first pressurized portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531), the gap (G) between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513) can be reduced. The present invention can prevent play in the intermediate state by reducing the gap between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513) as illustrated when the electronic device (200) is in the intermediate state.

[0161] FIGS. 13a and FIGS. 13b are unfolded drawings of a first arm, a second arm, and a support bracket of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0162] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the state in which the first arm and the second arm are coupled to the support bracket of a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0163] FIG. 13a is a front perspective view of the first arm (540), the second arm (550), and the support bracket (560), and FIG. 13b is a rear perspective view of the first arm (540), the second arm (550), and the support bracket (560).

[0164] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 13a, 13b, and 14 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIGS. 1 through 12b and FIGS. 15 through 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 13a, 13b, and 14.

[0165] Referring to FIGS. 13a and 13b, an electronic device according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a) may include a first arm (540), a second arm (550), and a support bracket (560). The first arm (540) may include a first arm extension (541). The second arm (550) may include a second arm extension (551). The first arm extension (541) and the second arm extension (551) may be formed symmetrically with respect to a center.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the outer surface of the first arm extension (541) may include a first arm recess (541a), a second arm recess (541b), and a first arm pressure portion (541c). The first arm recess (541a) and the second arm recess (541b) may be spaced apart with the first arm pressure portion (541c) in between. The first arm pressure portion (541c) may be located between the first arm recess (541a) and the second arm recess (541b). For example, the first arm recess (541a) may be a flat or curved surface. For example, the second arm recess (541b) may be a flat or curved surface. The first arm pressure portion (541c) is formed to protrude radially outward compared to the first arm recess (541a) and the second arm recess (541b), so it may be referred to as the first protrusion. The first arm recess (541a) may correspond to the first recess of the first gear (511) (e.g., the first recess (5112a) of FIG. 8). The second arm recess (541b) may correspond to the second recess of the first gear (511) (e.g., the second recess (5112b) of FIG. 8). The first arm pressure portion (541c) may correspond to the first pressure portion of the first gear (511) (e.g., the first pressure portion (5112c) of FIG. 8).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the circumferential surface of the first arm extension (541) and the circumferential surface of the first shaft extension (e.g., the first shaft extension (5112) of FIG. 8) may have substantially the same shape. The circumferential surface of the first arm extension (541) may be aligned with the circumferential surface of the first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear (511) in a shape substantially identical to that of the first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear (511) when viewed in the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0168] According to an embodiment, the circumferential surface of the second arm extension (551) and the circumferential surface of the second shaft extension (e.g., the second shaft extension (5122) of FIG. 6) may have substantially the same shape. The circumferential surface of the second arm extension (551) may be aligned with the circumferential surface of the second shaft extension (5122) of the second gear (512) in a shape substantially identical to that of the second shaft extension (5122) of the second gear (512) when viewed in the axial direction of the second gear (512).

[0169] According to one embodiment, a support bracket (560) may be coupled to a first arm (540) and a second arm (550). The support bracket (560) may include a first arm insertion hole (561) (or a first hole) and a second arm insertion hole (562) (or a second hole). The first arm insertion hole (561) may be formed to allow the first arm extension (541) of the first arm (540) to be inserted. The second arm insertion hole (562) may be formed to allow the second arm extension (551) of the second arm (550) to be inserted. A first shaft (e.g., the first shaft (514) of FIG. 6) may pass through the first arm insertion hole (561). A second shaft (e.g., the second shaft (515) of FIG. 6) may pass through the second arm insertion hole (562).

[0170] According to one embodiment, the circumference of the first arm insertion hole (561) may include a first arm pressure portion (561a) and a first arm curved portion (561b). The first arm curved portion (561b) may be formed by extending from both ends of the first arm pressure portion (561a). The first arm pressure portion (561a) may be formed to protrude inward toward the first arm insertion hole (561) when compared to the first arm curved portion (561b). If the first arm pressure portion (561a) is formed as a curved surface, the curvature of the first arm pressure portion (561a) may be smaller than the curvature of the first arm curved portion (561b). If the first arm pressure portion (561a) is formed as a flat surface, it may be referred to as a first flat surface.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the first arm insertion hole (561) may have substantially the same shape as the first gear insertion hole (e.g., the first gear insertion hole (531) of FIG. 9) of the gear bracket (e.g., the gear bracket (530) of FIG. 9). The first arm insertion hole (561) may be formed to be aligned with the same shape as the first gear insertion hole (531) when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0172] According to one embodiment, the second arm insertion hole (562) may have substantially the same shape as the second gear insertion hole of the gear bracket (530) (e.g., the second gear insertion hole (532) of FIG. 9). The second arm insertion hole (562) may be formed to be aligned with the same shape as the second gear insertion hole (532) when viewed from the axial direction of the second gear (512).

[0173] According to one embodiment, the first arm extension (541) of the first arm (540) may be positioned to be movable while inserted into the first arm insertion hole (561). The first arm extension (541) may be positioned to be movable within the first arm insertion hole (561). The first arm insertion hole (561) may form or include additional clearance space to allow the first arm extension (541) to move.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the second arm extension (551) of the second arm (550) may be positioned to be movable while inserted into the second arm insertion hole (562). The second arm extension (551) may be positioned to be movable within the second arm insertion hole (562). The second arm insertion hole (562) may form or include additional clearance space to allow the second arm extension (551) to move.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the first arm (540) may rotate together as the first gear (511) rotates. The first arm extension (541) may also rotate together with the rotation of the first gear (511). While the first arm extension (541) is rotated with the first arm insertion hole (561) of the support bracket (560) inserted therein, the first arm extension (541) may be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) according to the rotational position. For example, when the first arm pressing part (541c) of the first arm extension (541) presses the first arm pressurized part (561a) of the first arm insertion hole (561), the first arm extension (541) may move toward the idler gear (513). As the first arm extension (541) moves toward the idler gear (513), the first shaft (514) passing through the first arm extension (541) can also move toward the idler gear (513).

[0176] According to one embodiment, when the first arm pressing part (541c) is positioned on the first arm pressed part (561a) by the rotation of the first arm extension part (541), the first arm extension part (541) can move in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) and toward the idler gear (513). For example, when the first arm pressing part (541c) is positioned on the first arm pressed part (561a) by the rotation of the first arm extension part (541), the rotation axis of the first arm extension part (541) can move in a direction toward the axis of the idler gear (513). This movement operation can help reduce the gap between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513) in an intermediate state of the electronic device (200). The specific operation can be performed substantially the same as in FIGS. 11a through 11f.

[0177] FIG. 15 is a plan view of a hinge module of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0178] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the rotate bracket of FIG. 15 according to one embodiment.

[0179] FIGS. 17a and FIGS. 17b are drawings illustrating a first arm, a second arm, and a cam portion in a hinge module according to one embodiment.

[0180] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 15, 16, 17a, and 17b may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIGS. 1 through 14 and FIGS. 18 through 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 15, 16, 17a, and 17b.

[0181] FIGS. 15, 16, 17a, and 17b are exemplary drawings to explain that a structure for improving or reducing play between a first gear and an idler gear that may occur in an intermediate state may be applied to a hinge module according to various embodiments, and the structure, shape, and arrangement of the illustrated hinge module do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0182] Referring to FIGS. 15, 16, 17a, and 17b, an electronic device according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 or the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a) may include a hinge module (1500). Among the configurations of the illustrated hinge module (1500), the same reference numerals are used for configurations that are substantially identical to the configuration of the hinge module illustrated in FIGS. 5 through 14 (e.g., the hinge module (500) of FIG. 5).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the hinge module (1500) may include at least one of a gear structure (510), a support structure (1520), a rotate bracket (1530), a first arm (1540), a second arm (1550), and a support bracket (560). The hinge module (1500) may support the electronic device (200) to be folded or unfolded into a first state (e.g., unfolded state) or a second state (e.g., folded state), as well as an intermediate state between the first state and the second state.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the gear structure (510) may include a first gear (e.g., the first gear (511) of FIG. 6) and a second gear (e.g., the second gear (512) of FIG. 6). The first gear (511) may include a first shaft extension (e.g., the first shaft extension (5112) of FIG. 6). The second gear (512) may include a second shaft extension (e.g., the second shaft extension (5122) of FIG. 6).

[0185] According to one embodiment, the rotate bracket (1530) may include a first gear insertion hole (1531) (e.g., a first hole or a first gear guide), a second gear insertion hole (1532) (e.g., a second hole or a second gear guide), and a plurality of idler gear insertion holes (1533) (e.g., a third hole or an idler gear guide). The rotate bracket (1530) may be spaced apart from the support bracket (560). The rotate bracket (1530) and the support bracket (560) may be spaced apart with the support structure (1520) and the gear structure (510) in between.

[0186] According to one embodiment, the first gear insertion hole (1531) may be formed so that the first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear (511) is inserted. The first gear insertion hole (1531) may be formed so that the first shaft (e.g., the first shaft (514) of FIG. 6) passes through it. The first gear insertion hole (1531) may be formed so that the first shaft (514) and the first shaft extension (5112) surrounding the first shaft (514) are inserted.

[0187] According to one embodiment, the second gear insertion hole (1532) may be formed so that the second shaft extension (5122) of the second gear (512) is inserted. The second gear insertion hole (1532) may be formed so that the second shaft (e.g., the second shaft (515) of FIG. 6) passes through it. The second gear insertion hole (1532) may be formed so that the second shaft (515) and the second shaft extension (5122) surrounding the second shaft (515) are inserted.

[0188] According to one embodiment, a plurality of idler gear insertion holes (1533) may be disposed between a first gear insertion hole (1531) and a second gear insertion hole (1532). The plurality of idler gear insertion holes (1533) may be formed so that an axial extension of the idler gear (513) is inserted.

[0189] According to one embodiment, the movement of the first shaft extension (5112) within the first gear insertion hole (1531) of the rotate bracket (1530) when the first gear (511) rotates may be substantially the same as the movement described in FIGS. 11a to 11f.

[0190] According to one embodiment, the first arm (1540) may include a first arm extension (1541). The first arm extension (1541) may extend along the axial direction of the first gear (511) or the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (514). The first arm extension (1541) may protrude toward the first gear (511) side. The first arm extension (1541) may extend toward the support plate (1523) side. The first arm extension (1541) may protrude along the periphery of the first arm hole (1540b) along the axial direction of the first gear (511) or the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (514). The first arm extension (1541) may extend along the axial direction of the first gear (511) or the longitudinal direction of the first shaft (514) from the edge defining the first arm hole (1540b). The first arm extension (1541) may be formed to wrap around the circumference of the first shaft (514). The first arm extension (1541) may have a roughly ring-shaped cross-section.

[0191] According to one embodiment, the outer surface of the first arm extension (1541) may include a first arm recess (1541a) (or first deformation part), a second arm recess (1541b) (or second deformation part), and a first arm pressure part (1541c) (or first elongated part or first fillet). The first arm recess (1541a) and the second arm recess (1541b) may be spaced apart with the first arm pressure part (1541c) in between. The first arm pressure part (1541c) may be located between the first arm recess (1541a) and the second arm recess (1541b). For example, the first arm recess (1541a) may be a flat or curved surface or may include a flat or curved surface. For example, the second arm recess (1541b) may be flat or curved, or may include a flat or curved surface. The first arm pressing portion (1541c) may be referred to as the first protrusion because it is formed to protrude radially outward relative to the first arm recess (1541a) and the second arm recess (1541b). The first arm recess (1541a) may correspond to the first recess of the first gear (511) (e.g., the first recess (5112a) of FIG. 8). The second arm recess (1541b) may correspond to the second recess of the first gear (511) (e.g., the second recess (5112b) of FIG. 8). The first arm pressurizing part (1541c) may correspond to the first pressurizing part of the first gear (511) (e.g., the first pressurizing part (5112c) of FIG. 8).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the circumferential surface of the first arm extension (1541) and the circumferential surface of the first shaft extension (5112) may have substantially the same shape. The circumferential surface of the first arm extension (1541) may be aligned with the circumferential surface of the first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear (511) in a shape substantially identical to that of the first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear (511) when viewed in the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0193] According to one embodiment, the second arm (1550) may include a second arm extension (1551). The second arm extension (1551) may extend along the axial direction of the second gear (512) or the longitudinal direction of the second shaft (515). The second arm extension (1551) may protrude toward the direction of the second gear (512). The second arm extension (1551) may extend toward the direction of the cam portion (522, 1523). The second arm extension (1551) may protrude along the periphery of the second arm hole (1550b) along the axial direction of the second gear (512) or the longitudinal direction of the second shaft (515). The second arm extension (1551) may extend along the axial direction of the second gear (512) or the longitudinal direction of the second shaft (515) from the edge defining the second arm hole (1550b). The second arm extension (1551) may be formed to wrap around the circumference of the second shaft (515). The second arm extension (1551) may have a roughly ring-shaped cross-section.

[0194] According to the embodiment, the circumferential surface of the second arm extension (1551) and the circumferential surface of the second shaft extension (5122) may have substantially the same shape. The circumferential surface of the second arm extension (1551) may be aligned with the circumferential surface of the second shaft extension (5122) of the second gear (512) in substantially the same shape when viewed in the axial direction of the second gear (512).

[0195] According to one embodiment, the support structure (1520) may include a plurality of elastic members (521) and cam portions (522, 1523). The cam portions (522, 1523) may include a first cam (522) and a support plate (1523).

[0196] According to one embodiment, the support plate (1523) may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the first arm hole (1540b) of the first arm (1540), the second arm hole (1550b) of the second arm (1550), and the support bracket (560). The support plate (1523) may include a plurality of holes formed to allow the first shaft (514) and the second shaft (515) to pass through.

[0197] According to one embodiment, the support plate (1523) may include a first arm insertion hole (1523a) and a second arm insertion hole (1523b). The first arm insertion hole (1523a) may be formed to allow the first arm extension (1541) to be inserted. The second arm insertion hole (1523b) may be formed to allow the second arm extension (1551) to be inserted. A first shaft (514) may be positioned to penetrate the first arm insertion hole (1523a). A second shaft (515) may be positioned to penetrate the second arm insertion hole (1523b).

[0198] According to one embodiment, the first arm insertion hole (1523a) may be formed to allow the first arm extension (1541) of the first arm (1540) to be inserted. The second arm insertion hole (1523b) may be formed to allow the second arm extension (1551) of the second arm (1550) to be inserted. The first shaft (514) may pass through the first arm insertion hole (1523a). The second shaft (515) may pass through the second arm insertion hole (1523b).

[0199] According to one embodiment, the circumference of the first female insertion hole (1523a) may include a first female pressure portion (1523a-1) and a first female curved portion (1523a-2). The first female curved portion (1523a-2) may be formed by extending from both ends of the first female pressure portion (1523a-1). The first female pressure portion (1523a-1) may be formed to protrude inward toward the first female insertion hole (1523a) when compared to the first female curved portion (1523a-2). When the first female pressure portion (1523a-1) is formed as a curved surface, the curvature of the first female pressure portion (1523a-1) may be smaller than the curvature of the first female curved portion (1523a-2). The first arm pressurized portion (1523a-1) may be referred to as the first flat portion if it is formed as a flat surface.

[0200] According to one embodiment, the first arm insertion hole (1523a) may have substantially the same shape as the first gear insertion hole (1531) of the rotate bracket (1530). The first arm insertion hole (1523a) may be formed to be aligned with the same shape as the first gear insertion hole (1531) when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the second arm insertion hole (1523b) may have substantially the same shape as the second gear insertion hole (1532) of the rotate bracket (1530). The second arm insertion hole (1523b) may be formed to be aligned with the same shape as the second gear insertion hole (1532) when viewed from the axial direction of the second gear (512).

[0202] According to one embodiment, the first arm extension (1541) of the first arm (1540) may be positioned to be movable while inserted into the first arm insertion hole (1523a). The first arm extension (1541) may be positioned to be movable within the first arm insertion hole (1523a). The first arm insertion hole (1523a) may form additional clearance space to allow the first arm extension (1541) to move.

[0203] According to one embodiment, the second arm extension (1551) of the second arm (1550) may be positioned to be movable while inserted into the second arm insertion hole (1523b). The second arm extension (1551) may be positioned to be movable within the second arm insertion hole (1523b). The second arm insertion hole (1523b) may form additional clearance space for the second arm extension (1551) to move.

[0204] According to one embodiment, the first arm (1540) may rotate together as the first gear (511) rotates. The first arm extension (1541) may also rotate together with the rotation of the first gear (511). While the first arm extension (1541) is rotated with the first arm insertion hole (1523a) of the support plate (1523), the first arm extension (1541) may be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) according to the rotational position. For example, when the first arm pressing part (1541c) of the first arm extension (1541) presses the first arm being pressed part (1523a-1) of the first arm insertion hole (1523a), the first arm extension (1541) may move toward the idler gear (513). As the first arm extension (1541) moves toward the idler gear (513), the first shaft (514) passing through the first arm extension (1541) can also move toward the idler gear (513).

[0205] According to one embodiment, when the first arm pressing portion (1541c) is positioned on the first arm pressed portion (1523a-1) by rotation of the first arm extension portion (1541), the first arm extension portion (1541) can move in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) and toward the idler gear (513). This movement can help reduce the gap between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513) in an intermediate state of the electronic device (200). The specific operation can be performed substantially the same as in FIGS. 11a through 11f.

[0206] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of a multi-foldable electronic device in a first state according to one embodiment.

[0207] FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of a multi-foldable electronic device in a first state according to one embodiment.

[0208] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a multi-foldable electronic device in a second state according to one embodiment.

[0209] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIGS. 18 through 20 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIGS. 1 through 17b and FIG. 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIGS. 18 through 20.

[0210] Referring to FIGS. 18 through 20, an electronic device (1800) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a housing (1801). The electronic device (1800) may include a display (1802). The housing (1801) may form a space in which the display (1802) is placed. The display (1802) may be a flexible display (1802) (or a foldable display). The display (1802) may be foldable, unfoldable, or foldable in at least a portion.

[0211] According to one embodiment, the housing (1801) may include a first housing (1810) (or a first housing portion). The housing (1801) may include a second housing (1820) (or a second housing portion). The housing (1801) may include a third housing (1830) (or a third housing portion). The first housing (1810) may be positioned between the second housing (1820) and the third housing (1830). The second housing (1820) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing (1810). The third housing (1830) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing (1810). The display (1802) may include a first display area (1802a) corresponding to a first housing (1810), a second display area (1802b) corresponding to a second housing (1820), and a third display area (1802c) corresponding to a third housing (1830).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1800) may include a support (1840, 1850, 1860). The support (1840, 1850, 1860) may be positioned or provided between the housing (1801) and the display (1802). The support (1840, 1850, 1860) may be coupled to the housing (1801) and may support the display (1802). The support (1840, 1850, 1860) may be positioned to surround the edge of the display (1802). The support (1840, 1850, 1860) may extend along the perimeter of the housing (1801). The support members (1840, 1850, 1860) may include a first support member (1840) disposed in a first housing (1810), a second support member (1850) disposed in a second housing (1820), and a third support member (1860) disposed in a third housing (1830). The support members (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named "body". The support members (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named "frame". The support members (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named "sealing member". The support members (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named "peripheral part". The support (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named a "circumferential part". The support (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named a "pheripheral structure". The support (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named a "circumferential structure".

[0213] According to one embodiment, the support (1840, 1850, 1860) may include a first support (1840). The first support (1840) may be positioned or provided between the first housing (1810) and the display (1802). The first support (1840) may be positioned or provided along the edge of the first housing (1810). The first support (1840) may include a first-1 support (1841) and a first-2 support (1842). At least a portion of the display (1802) may be positioned or provided between the first-1 support (1841) and the first-2 support (1842). A first-1 support member (1841) may be placed or provided at one end of the first housing (1810), and a first-2 support member (1842) may be placed or provided at the other end of the first housing (1810). Each of the first, second, and third support members (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named "support member." The support members (1840, 1850, 1860) may be named "deco," "finishing member," or "non-conductive member."

[0214] According to one embodiment, the support (1840, 1850, 1860) may include a second support (1850). The second support (1850) may be positioned or provided between the second housing (1820) and the display (1802). The second support (1850) may be positioned along the edge of the second housing (1820). The second support (1850) may include a second-1 support (1851), a second-2 support (1852), and a second-3 support (1853). At least a portion of the display (1802) may be positioned between the second-2 support (1852) and the second-3 support (1853). The second-1 support (1851) may connect the second-2 support (1852) and the second-3 support (1853). The second-1 support (1851) may extend along the edge of the second housing (1820) (e.g., the edge (1822) in FIG. 19). The second-1 support (1851) may be positioned or provided between the edge (1822) of the second housing (1820) and the display (1802). The second-1 support (1851) may be named "support frame" or "first support frame". The second-2 support (1852) and the second-3 support (1853) may each be named "second support frame".

[0215] According to one embodiment, the support (1840, 1850, 1860) may include a third support (1860). The third support (1860) may be positioned or provided between the third housing (1830) and the display (1802). The third support (1860) may be positioned along the edge of the third housing (1830). The third support (1860) may include a third-1 support (1861), a third-2 support (1862), and a third-3 support (1863). At least a portion of the display (1802) may be positioned between the third-2 support (1862) and the third-3 support (1863). The third-1 support (1861) may connect the third-2 support (1862) and the third-3 support (1863). The third-1 support (1861) may extend along the edge of the third housing (1830) (e.g., the edge (1832) in FIG. 19). The third-1 support (1861) may be positioned or provided between the edge (1832) of the third housing (1830) and the display (1802). The third-1 support (1861) may be named "support frame" or "first support frame". The third-2 support (1862) and the third-3 support (1863) may each be named "second support frame".

[0216] According to one embodiment, the first housing (1810) may include a first-1 side portion (1811) and a first-2 side portion (1812). Each of the first-1 side portion (1811) and the first-2 side portion (1812) may form opposite sides of the first housing (1810). The second housing (1820) may be coupled to the first-1 side portion (1811). The third housing (1830) may be coupled to the first-2 side portion (1812). The first-1 side portion (1811) may be named the "first coupling portion." The first-2 side portion (1812) may be named the "second coupling portion." The first-1 side portion (1811) may be named the "first portion." The first-2 side portion (1812) may be named the "second portion."

[0217] According to one embodiment, the second housing (1820) may include a second-1 side portion (1821) and a second-2 side portion (1822). Each of the second-1 side portion (1821) and the second-2 side portion (1822) may form opposite sides of the second housing (1820). The second-1 side portion (1821) may be coupled to the first housing (1810). The second-2 side portion (1822) may form a side of the housing (1801). The second-2 side portion (1822) may be named "edge". The second-1 side portion (1821) may be named "third side portion". The second-2 side portion (1822) may be named "fourth side portion".

[0218] According to one embodiment, the third housing (1830) may include a third-1 side portion (1831) and a third-2 side portion (1832). Each of the third-1 side portion (1831) and the third-2 side portion (1832) may form opposite sides of the third housing (1830). The third-1 side portion (1831) may be coupled to the first housing (1810). The third-2 side portion (1832) may form a side of the housing (1801). The third-2 side portion (1832) may be named "edge". The third-1 side portion (1831) may be named "fifth side portion". The third-2 side portion (1832) may be named "sixth side portion".

[0219] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1800) may include a first hinge (1870) (or a first hinge structure) and a second hinge (1880) (or a second hinge structure). The first hinge (1870) may be positioned between a first housing (1810) and a second housing (1820). The first hinge (1870) may be positioned between a first-1 side portion (1811) and a second-1 side portion (1821). The first hinge (1870) may rotatably connect the first housing (1810) and the second housing (1820). The second hinge (1880) may be positioned between the first housing (1810) and a third housing (1830). The second hinge (1880) may be positioned between the first-2 side portion (1812) and the third-1 side portion (1831). The second hinge (1880) may rotatably connect the first housing (1810) and the third housing (1830).

[0220] According to one embodiment, the second housing (1820) can be rotated relative to the first housing (1810). The first hinge (1870) can provide a center of rotation to the second housing (1820). The first hinge (1870) can connect the first-1 side portion (1811) and the second-1 side portion (1821). The third housing (1830) can be rotated relative to the first housing (1810). The second hinge (1880) can provide a center of rotation to the third housing (1830). The second hinge (1880) can connect the first-2 side portion (1812) and the third-1 side portion (1831).

[0221] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, each of the first, second, and third housings (1810, 1820, 1830) may be arranged in one direction (e.g., +Y direction). For example, the third housing (1830) may be placed above the first housing (1810), and the second housing (1820) may be placed above the third housing (1830). For example, the third housing (1830) may be placed between the first housing (1810) and the second housing (1820).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1800) may include a first antenna (1815), a second antenna (1825), and a third antenna (1835). The first antenna (1815) may form a part of the first housing (1810). The first antenna (1815) may form at least a part of the surface of the first housing (1810). The second antenna (1825) may form a part of the second housing (1820). The second antenna (1825) may form at least a part of the surface of the second housing (1820). The third antenna (1835) may form a part of the third housing (1830). The third antenna (1835) may form at least a part of the surface of the third housing (1830).

[0223] According to one embodiment, the first antenna (1815) may include a first-1 antenna portion (1815a), a first-2 antenna portion (1815b), and a first-3 antenna portion (1815c). The first-1 antenna portion (1815a) may be positioned between the first-2 antenna portion (1815b) and the first-3 antenna portion (1815c). The first antenna (1815) may include a first-1 segment portion (1815d) and a first-2 segment portion (1815e). The first-1 antenna portion (1815a) and the first-2 antenna portion (1815b) may be spaced apart from each other, and the first-1 segment portion (1815d) may be positioned between the first-1 antenna portion (1815a) and the first-2 antenna portion (1815b). The first-1 antenna portion (1815a) and the first-3 antenna portion (1815c) may be spaced apart from each other, and the first-2 segment portion (1815e) may be positioned between the first-1 antenna portion (1815a) and the first-3 antenna portion (1815c).

[0224] According to one embodiment, the second antenna (1825) may include a second-1 antenna portion (1825a), a second-2 antenna portion (1825b), and a second-3 antenna portion (1825c). The second-1 antenna portion (1825a) may be positioned between the second-2 antenna portion (1825b) and the second-3 antenna portion (1825c). The second antenna (1825) may include a second-1 segment portion (1825d) and a second-2 segment portion (1825e). The second-1 antenna portion (1825a) and the second-2 antenna portion (1825b) may be spaced apart from each other, and the second-1 segment portion (1825d) may be positioned between the second-1 antenna portion (1825a) and the second-2 antenna portion (1825b). The second-1 antenna section (1825a) and the second-3 antenna section (1825c) may be spaced apart from each other, and the second-2 segment section (1825e) may be positioned between the second-1 antenna section (1825a) and the second-3 antenna section (1825c).

[0225] According to one embodiment, the third antenna (1835) may include a third-1 antenna portion (1835a), a third-2 antenna portion (1835b), and a third-3 antenna portion (1835c). The third-1 antenna portion (1835a) may be positioned between the third-2 antenna portion (1835b) and the third-3 antenna portion (1835c). The third antenna (1835) may include a third-1 segment portion (1835d) and a third-2 segment portion (1835e). The third-1 antenna portion (1835a) and the third-2 antenna portion (1835b) may be spaced apart from each other, and the third-1 segment portion (1835d) may be positioned between the third-1 antenna portion (1835a) and the third-2 antenna portion (1835b). The third-1 antenna section (1835a) and the third-3 antenna section (1835c) may be spaced apart from each other, and the third-2 segment section (1835e) may be positioned between the third-1 antenna section (1835a) and the third-3 antenna section (1835c).

[0226] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first housing (1810), the second housing (1820), and the third housing (1830) may be aligned with each other. For example, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first housing (1810), the third housing (1830), and the second housing (1820) may be aligned in one direction (e.g., +Z direction) in the order described. When the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first antenna (1815), the second antenna (1825), and the third antenna (1835) may be aligned with each other. For example, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first antenna (1815), the third antenna (1835), and the second antenna (1825) may be aligned in one direction (e.g., +Z direction) in the order described. When the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first antenna (1815), the second antenna (1825), and the third antenna (1835) can be aligned with each other in a stacked direction (e.g., +Z direction) where the housings (1810, 1820, 1830) are stacked. For example, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first-1 antenna portion (1815a), the second-1 antenna portion (1825a), and the third-1 antenna portion (1835a) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first-2 antenna portion (1815b), the second-2 antenna portion (1825b), and the third-2 antenna portion (1835b) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first-3 antenna portion (1815c), the second-3 antenna portion (1825c), and the third-3 antenna portion (1835c) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first-1 segment portion (1815d), the second-1 segment portion (1825d), and the third-1 segment portion (1835d) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction).For example, when the electronic device (1800) is in a folded state, the first-2 segment (1815e), the second-2 segment (1825e), and the third-2 segment (1835e) can be aligned in the first direction (e.g., the +Z direction).

[0227] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a multi-foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0228] All features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components illustrated in FIG. 21 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in other figures of this specification. Likewise, all features, components, and / or arrangement relationships between components described in relation to FIG. 1 through 20 may be included, either alone or in combination with, the features, components, and arrangement relationships between components described in FIG. 21.

[0229] Referring to FIG. 21, an electronic device (1800) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a display (1802) and a housing (1810, 1820, 1830). The display (1802) may be seated in the housing (1810, 1820, 1830). At least a portion of the display (1802) may be deformably disposed in the housing (1810, 1820, 1830). The housing (1810, 1820, 1830) may include a first housing (1810), a second housing (1820), and a third housing (1830). The first housing (1810) and the second housing (1820) may be rotatably coupled. The first housing (1810) and the third housing (1830) can be rotatably coupled. The second housing (1820) can be named "third housing," and the third housing (1830) can be named "second housing."

[0230] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1800) may include a first hinge structure (2110) and a second hinge structure (2120). The first hinge structure (2110) may rotatably connect the first housing (1810) and the second housing (1820). The second hinge structure (2120) may rotatably connect the first housing (1810) and the third housing (1830). The first hinge structure (2110) may be wider than the second hinge structure (2120). The width of the first hinge structure (2110) in one direction (e.g., +Z direction) may be greater than the width of the second hinge structure (2120) in one direction (e.g., +Z direction). The first hinge structure (2110) may be named a "wide hinge". The second hinge structure (2120) may be named a "narrow hinge." Each of the first hinge structure (2110) and the second hinge structure (2120) may be named a "hinge." Each of the first hinge structure (2110) and the second hinge structure (2120) may be named a "hinge assembly."

[0231] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1800) may include a first hinge housing (2130) positioned to accommodate a first hinge structure (2110). The electronic device (1800) may include a second hinge housing (2140) positioned to accommodate a second hinge structure (2120).

[0232] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (2110) may include at least one first hinge module (2111). At least a portion of the first hinge module (2111) may be accommodated within the first hinge housing (2130).

[0233] According to one embodiment, the first hinge structure (2110) may include a first support plate (2112). The first support plate (2112) may be placed on the first hinge module (2111). The first support plate (2112) may be placed between the first hinge module (2111) and the display (1802). The first support plate (2112) may support the display (1802). The first hinge module (2111) may rotate the first support plate (2112).

[0234] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (2120) may include at least one second hinge module (2121). At least a portion of the second hinge module (2121) may be accommodated within the second hinge housing (2140). The second hinge module (2121) may have a wider width than the first hinge module (2111).

[0235] According to one embodiment, the second hinge structure (2120) may include a second support plate (2122). The second support plate (2122) may be placed on the second hinge module (2121). The second support plate (2122) may be placed between the second hinge module (2121) and the display (1802). The second support plate (2122) may support the display (1802). The second hinge module (2121) may rotate the second support plate (2122).

[0236] According to one embodiment, the first hinge module (2111) may be configured so that the gap between the gears varies according to rotational movement. According to one embodiment, the second hinge module (2121) may be configured so that the gap between the gears varies according to rotational movement. The first hinge module (2111) and the second hinge module (2121) may be substantially the same or similar to the hinge module (500 or 1500) of FIGS. 5 to 17b. For example, the first hinge module (2111) and the second hinge module (2121) may be configured to reduce the gap between the gear coupled to the shaft and the idler gear engaged with the gear in an intermediate state between the first state and the second state during the rotational movement of the hinge module described in FIGS. 11a to 11f, thereby improving the play phenomenon in the intermediate state.

[0237] A foldable electronic device (101, 200) according to one embodiment may include a foldable housing (210, 220) comprising a first housing (210) and a second housing (220), a hinge structure (300) connected to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a flexible display (260) supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The hinge structure (300) may include a first gear (511) comprising a first hollow portion (5111) and a first axial extension (5112) protruding axially along the periphery of the first hollow portion (5111), a second gear (512) comprising a second hollow portion (5121) and a second axial extension (5122) protruding axially along the periphery of the second hollow portion (5121), a pair of idler gears (513) arranged to mesh with the first gear (511) and the second gear (512), and a gear bracket (530) comprising a first gear insertion hole (531) formed to insert the first axial extension (5112) and a second gear insertion hole (532) formed to insert the second axial extension (5122). Depending on the rotational position of the first gear (511), the first shaft extension (5112) may be configured to move within the first gear insertion hole (531) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) and toward the idler gear (513).

[0238] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (210, 220) can be varied into a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state by the hinge structure (300). When the foldable housing (210, 220) is in an intermediate state, the first axis extension (5112) may be configured to press against the circumference of the first gear insertion hole (531) so that the first gear (511) moves toward the idler gear (513).

[0239] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (210, 220) can be varied into a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state by the hinge structure (300). When the foldable housing (210, 220) is in a folded state or an unfolded state, a gap may be formed between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513).

[0240] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101, 200) may further include a first arm (540) coupled to rotate together according to the rotation of the first gear (511) and a second arm (550) coupled to rotate together according to the rotation of the second gear (512).

[0241] According to one embodiment, the first arm (540) may include a first arm extension (541) extended along the axial direction of the first gear (511). The second arm (550) may include a second arm extension (551) extended along the axial direction of the second gear (512).

[0242] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101, 200) may further include a support bracket (560) comprising a first arm insertion hole (561) formed to receive the first arm extension (541) and a second arm insertion hole (562) formed to receive the second arm extension (551). Depending on the rotational position of the first arm (540), the first arm extension (541) may be configured to move within the first arm insertion hole (561) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first arm extension (541) and toward the idler gear (513).

[0243] According to one embodiment, the circumferential surface of the first arm extension (541) and the circumferential surface of the first shaft extension (5112) may be formed to be aligned in the same shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0244] According to one embodiment, the shape of the first arm insertion hole (561) and the shape of the first gear insertion hole may be formed to be aligned with the same shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0245] A foldable electronic device (101, 200) according to one embodiment may include a foldable housing (210, 220) comprising a first housing (210) and a second housing (220), a hinge structure (300) connected to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and a flexible display (260) supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The hinge structure (300) may include a first gear (511) comprising a first hollow portion (5111) and a first axial extension (5112) protruding axially along the periphery of the first hollow portion (5111), a second gear (512) comprising a second hollow portion (5121) and a second axial extension (5122) protruding axially along the periphery of the second hollow portion (5121), a pair of idler gears (513) arranged to mesh with the first gear (511) and the second gear (512), and a gear bracket (530) comprising a first gear insertion hole (531) formed to insert the first axial extension (5112) and a second gear insertion hole (532) formed to insert the second axial extension (5122). The circumference of the first gear insertion hole (531) may form a first pressure portion (531a) and a first curved portion (531b) extending from both ends of the first pressure portion (531a). The outer surface of the first shaft extension portion (5112) may have a cylindrical shape and may include a first recess (5112a), a second recess (5112b) spaced apart from each other, and a first pressure portion (5112c) located between the first recess (5112a) and the second recess (5112b). When the first pressure portion (5112c) is positioned on the first pressure portion (531a), the first gear (511) may be configured to move toward the idler gear (513).

[0246] According to one embodiment, the first gear (511) may be positioned closer to the idler gear (513) when the first recess (5112a) and the second recess (5112b) do not contact the first pressure-applied portion (531a) than when the first recess (5112a) or the second recess (5112b) contacts the first pressure-applied portion (531a).

[0247] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first recess (5112a) and the first recess (5112a) may be flat.

[0248] According to one embodiment, the first gear insertion hole (531) may have a space in which the first shaft extension (5112) can move within the first gear insertion hole (531) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) and toward the idler gear (513).

[0249] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (210, 220) can be varied into a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state by the hinge structure (300). In the intermediate state, the first pressing portion (5112c) of the first axis extension (5112) may be configured to be positioned on the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531).

[0250] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (210, 220) can be varied into a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state by the hinge structure (300). In the folded state, the first recess (5112a) of the first axis extension (5112) may be configured to be located on the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531). In the unfolded state, the second recess (5112b) of the first axis extension (5112) may be configured to be located on the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531).

[0251] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101, 200) may further include a first arm (540) coupled to rotate together according to the rotation of the first gear (511) and a second arm (550) coupled to rotate together according to the rotation of the second gear (512).

[0252] According to one embodiment, the first arm (540) may include a first arm extension (541) extended along the axial direction of the first gear (511). The second arm (550) may include a second arm extension (551) extended along the axial direction of the second gear (512).

[0253] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101, 200) may further include a support bracket comprising a first arm insertion hole (561) formed to receive the first arm extension (541) and a second arm insertion hole (562) formed to receive the second arm extension (551). Depending on the rotational position of the first arm (540), the first arm extension (541) may be configured to move within the first arm insertion hole (561) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first arm extension (541) and toward the idler gear (513).

[0254] According to one embodiment, the circumferential surface of the first arm extension (541) and the circumferential surface of the first shaft extension (5112) may be formed to be aligned in the same shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0255] According to one embodiment, the shape of the first arm insertion hole (561) and the shape of the first gear insertion hole (531) may be formed to be aligned with the same shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear (511).

[0256] According to one embodiment, the first gear (511) may be configured to move toward the idler gear (513) to reduce the gap formed between the first gear (511) and the idler gear (513), thereby improving the play phenomenon that occurs when the foldable housing (210, 220) rotates around the hinge structure (300).

[0257] According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device comprising the following may be provided: a foldable housing comprising a first housing (210) and a second housing (220); a hinge structure (300) configured to rotatably connect the first housing and the second housing; and a hinge structure comprising a first arm structure comprising a first gear (511) and a first extension (5112, 541, 1541) configured to protrude axially along the periphery of a first opening (5111, 550a) formed in the first arm structure; and a second arm structure comprising a second gear (512) and a second extension (5122, 551, 1551) configured to protrude axially along the periphery of a second opening (5121, 550b) formed in the first arm structure. A pair of idler gears (513) comprising a first idler gear (513) configured to mesh with the first gear and a second idler gear (513) configured to mesh with the second gear; and a first bracket (530, 560, 1523) comprising a first insertion hole (531, 561, 1523a) for receiving the first extension and a second insertion hole (532, 562, 1523b) for receiving the second extension; wherein the first extension may be configured to move within the first insertion hole in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear in order to move the first gear toward the first idler gear or away from the first idler gear according to the rotation of the first gear.

[0258] According to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, the first extension is a first shaft extension (5112) of the first gear and the second extension is a second shaft extension (5122) of the second gear, the first insertion hole is a first gear insertion hole (531) and the second insertion hole is a second gear insertion hole (532), and the first bracket is a gear bracket (530); or the first extension is a first arm extension (541, 1541) and the second extension is a second arm extension (551, 1551), the first insertion hole is a first arm insertion hole (561, 1523a) and the second insertion hole is a second arm insertion hole (562, 1523b), and the first bracket is a support bracket (560) or a support plate (1523), and an electronic device of the first embodiment may be provided.

[0259] According to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device of a first or second embodiment may be provided, wherein the first arm structure comprises a first arm (540) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the first gear, and the second arm structure comprises a second arm (550) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the second gear.

[0260] According to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device of any one of the first to third embodiments may be provided, wherein the first arm structure includes a third extension (5112, 541, 1541) extending along the axial direction of the first gear, and the second arm structure includes a fourth arm extension (5122, 551, 1551) extending along the axial direction of the second gear.

[0261] According to the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device of the fourth embodiment further comprises a second bracket (560) including a third insertion hole (531, 561, 1523a) formed to accommodate the third extension and a fourth insertion hole (532, 562, 1523b) formed to accommodate the fourth extension, and the third extension may be provided with an electronic device that moves within the third insertion hole toward the first idler gear in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the third extension according to the rotation of the first arm.

[0262] According to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device of the fifth embodiment may be formed such that the peripheral surface of the third extension and the peripheral surface of the first extension are aligned in the same shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear.

[0263] According to the seventh embodiment of the present disclosure, in the electronic device of the fifth or sixth embodiment, the shape of the third insertion hole and the shape of the first insertion hole may be formed to be aligned with the same shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear.

[0264] According to the eighth embodiment of the present disclosure, in any one of the fourth to seventh embodiments of the electronic device, the first extension is included in either the first arm or the first gear, the third extension is included in the other of the first arm or the first gear, the second extension is included in either the second arm or the second gear, and the fourth extension may be included in the other of the second arm or the second gear.

[0265] According to the ninth embodiment of the present disclosure, in any one of the first to eighth embodiments of the electronic device, the hinge structure is configured to rotatably connect the first housing and the second housing so that the foldable housing can be adjusted or changed between a folded state, an unfolded state, and an intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state, and when the foldable housing is rotated from the folded state or the unfolded state to the intermediate state, the protrusion of the first extension part presses against the periphery of the first insertion hole so that the first gear moves toward the first idler gear, and / or, when the foldable housing is in the folded state or the unfolded state, a gap may be formed between the first gear and the first idler gear.

[0266] According to the 10th embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device of any one of the first to eighth embodiments comprises, the circumference of the first insertion hole includes a first deformed portion (531a, 561a, 1523a-1) and a first curved portion (531b, 561b, 1523a-2) extending from both ends of the first deformed portion, and the circumferential surface of the first extension portion is, for example, cylindrical or substantially cylindrical in shape, and includes a first concave portion (5112a, 541a, 1541a) and a second concave portion (5112b, 541b, 1541b) spaced apart from each other, and a first pressing portion (5112c, 541c, 1541c) located between the first concave portion and the second concave portion, and when the first pressing portion is rotated to contact the first deformed portion, the first gear is the It can be configured to move toward the first idler gear.

[0267] According to the 11th embodiment of the present disclosure, the electronic device of the 10th embodiment may be positioned closer to the first idler gear than when the first concave portion or the second concave portion contacts the first deformation portion when the first pressing portion contacts the first deformation portion.

[0268] According to the 12th embodiment of the present disclosure, in the electronic device of the 10th or 11th embodiment, at least one of the first concave portion, the second concave portion, and the first deformed portion may be flat.

[0269] According to the 13th embodiment of the present disclosure, in any one of the 10 to 12 embodiments, the first insertion hole may include a space in which the first extension portion can move toward the first idler gear within the first insertion hole in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear.

[0270] According to the 14th embodiment of the present disclosure, in any one of the 10 to 13 embodiments, the hinge structure is configured to rotatably connect the first housing and the second housing so that the foldable housing can be adjusted or changed between a folded state, an unfolded state, and an intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state, and is characterized by at least one of the following: when the foldable housing is in the intermediate state, the first pressure portion of the first extension may be configured to be located in the first deformation portion of the first insertion hole; when the foldable housing is in the folded state, the first concave portion of the first extension may be configured to be located adjacent to the first deformation portion of the first insertion hole; and when the foldable housing is in the unfolded state, the second concave portion of the first extension may be configured to be located adjacent to the first deformation portion of the first insertion hole.

[0271] According to the 15th embodiment of the present disclosure, any one of the first to 14 embodiments of the electronic device may further include a flexible display provided or disposed across the surface of the first housing and the surface of the second housing.

[0272] According to the 16th embodiment of the present disclosure, in any one of the first to 15 embodiments, the foldable housing comprises a third housing, and the electronic device comprises another hinge structure configured to rotatably connect the first housing and the third housing (e.g., the other hinge structure is located on the side of the first housing opposite to the hinge structure), and the other hinge structure is configured to be identical (or substantially identical) to the hinge structure.

[0273] The terms used in this disclosure are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this disclosure. For example, a component expressed in the singular should be understood as a concept including a plural component unless the context clearly implies only the singular. Each of the phrases used in this disclosure, such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B or C,” “at least one of A, B and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C,” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or any possible combination thereof. It should be understood that the term “and / or” used in this disclosure encompasses any possible combination of one or more of the listed items. Terms such as “comprising,” “having,” and “consisting of” used in this disclosure are intended merely to specify the existence of the features, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this disclosure, and the use of such terms is not intended to exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, components, parts, or combinations thereof. Expressions such as “first,” “second,” used in this disclosure may modify various components regardless of order and / or importance, and are used only to distinguish one component from another and do not limit said components.

[0274] The expression “configured to” as used in this disclosure may be appropriately substituted depending on the context, for example, with “suitable for,” “capable of,” “designed to,” “modified to,” “made to,” or “capable of.” The term “configured to” may not necessarily mean only that which is “specially designed” in hardware. Instead, in some situations, the expression “device configured to” may mean that the device is “capable of” together with other devices or components. For example, the phrase “device configured (or set) to perform A, B, and C” may mean a device dedicated to performing the said operation, or a general-purpose device capable of performing various operations including said operation.

[0275] Meanwhile, terms such as “upper side,” “lower side,” and “front-rear direction” used in this disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0276] Although the foregoing description in this disclosure has focused on specific embodiments, this disclosure is not limited to such specific embodiments and should be understood to encompass all various modifications, equivalents, and / or substitutions of various embodiments.

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device, A foldable housing (210, 220) including a first housing (210) and a second housing (220); A hinge structure (300) connected to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220); and A flexible display (260) supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220), and The above hinge structure (300) is, A first gear (511) comprising a first hollow portion (5111) and a first axial extension portion (5112) protruding axially along the periphery of the first hollow portion (5111); A second gear (512) comprising a second hollow portion (5121) and a second axial extension portion (5122) protruding axially along the periphery of the second hollow portion (5121); A pair of idler gears (513) configured to mesh with the first gear (511) and the second gear (512); and A gear bracket (530) comprising a first gear insertion hole (531) formed to allow the first shaft extension (5112) to be inserted and a second gear insertion hole (532) formed to allow the second shaft extension (5122) to be inserted, and The first shaft extension (5112) is configured to move within the first gear insertion hole (531) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) and toward the idler gear (513) according to the rotation of the first gear (511). Electronic device.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above foldable housing (210, 220) is varied into a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state by the hinge structure (300), and When the above foldable housing (210, 220) is in an intermediate state, the first axis extension (5112) is configured to press the circumference of the first gear insertion hole (531) so that the first gear (511) moves toward the idler gear (513). Electronic device.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above foldable housing (210, 220) is varied into a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state by the hinge structure (300), and When the above foldable housing (210, 220) is in a folded state or an unfolded state, a gap is formed between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513). Electronic device.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, A first arm configured to rotate together with the rotation of the first gear (511); and A second arm further comprising a second arm configured to rotate together with the rotation of the second gear (512), Electronic device.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above first arm is, It includes a first arm extension (541) extended along the axial direction of the first gear (511), and The above second arm is, A second arm extension (551) extending along the axial direction of the second gear (512), Electronic device.

6. In Paragraph 5, The support bracket (560) further includes a first arm insertion hole (561) formed to allow the first arm extension part (541) to be inserted and a second arm insertion hole (562) formed to allow the second arm extension part (551) to be inserted. According to the rotational position of the first arm (540), the first arm extension (541) is configured to move within the first arm insertion hole (561) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first arm extension (541) and toward the idler gear (513). Electronic device.

7. In Paragraph 6, The circumferential surface of the first arm extension (541) and the circumferential surface of the first shaft extension (5112) are formed to be aligned in the same shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear (511). Electronic device.

8. In Paragraph 6 or 7, The shape of the first arm insertion hole (561) and the shape of the first gear insertion hole are formed to be aligned with the same shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first gear (511). Electronic device.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 8, The circumference of the first gear insertion hole (531) forms a first pressure portion (531a) and a first curved portion (531b) extending from both ends of the first pressure portion (531a), and The outer surface of the first shaft extension (5112) is cylindrical in shape and includes a first recess (5112a), a second recess (5112b) spaced apart from each other, and a first pressure portion (5112c) located between the first recess (5112a) and the second recess (5112b). When the first pressurizing part (5112c) is positioned on the first pressurized part (531a), the first gear (511) is configured to move toward the idler gear (513). Electronic device.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above first gear (511) is, Positioned closer to the idler gear (513) when the first recess (5112a) or the second recess (5112b) does not contact the first pressure-applied part (531a) than when the first recess (5112a) or the second recess (5112b) contacts the first pressure-applied part (531a). Electronic device.

11. In Paragraph 9 or 10, At least one of the first depression (5112a) and the second depression (5112b) is flat, Electronic device.

12. In any one of paragraphs 9 through 11, The first gear insertion hole (531) above is, The first shaft extension (5112) has a space within the first gear insertion hole (531) that is perpendicular to the axial direction of the first gear (511) and movable toward the idler gear (513). Electronic device.

13. In any one of paragraphs 9 through 12, The above foldable housing (210, 220) is varied into a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state by the hinge structure (300), and In the above intermediate state, the first pressing portion (5112c) of the first shaft extension portion (5112) is configured to be positioned on the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531). Electronic device.

14. In any one of paragraphs 9 through 12, The above foldable housing (210, 220) is varied into a folded state, an intermediate state, and an unfolded state by the hinge structure (300), and In the above folded state, the first recess (5112a) of the first shaft extension (5112) is configured to be located on the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531), and In the above unfolded state, the second recess (5112b) of the first shaft extension (5112) is configured to be positioned on the first pressure portion (531a) of the first gear insertion hole (531), Electronic device.

15. In any one of paragraphs 9 through 14, The first gear (511) moves toward the idle gear (513) to reduce the gap formed between the first gear (511) and the idle gear (513), thereby improving the play phenomenon that occurs when the foldable housing (210, 220) rotates around the hinge structure (300). Electronic device.

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