Foldable electronic device comprising hinge assembly

Abstract

This foldable electronic device comprises: a foldable housing including a first housing part and a second housing part; and a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part. The hinge assembly comprises: a first bracket; rotators rotatably coupled to the first bracket; arms configured to synchronize the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part; shafts; a second bracket including a first portion fixing the shafts and a second portion protruding from the first portion; and an elastic member pressing the second bracket. The second bracket is secured to the first bracket through the second portion of the second bracket, the second portion being pressed by the elastic member and inserted into a groove of the first bracket.

Description

Foldable electronic device including a hinge assembly

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

[0002] An electronic device may include a foldable housing having a foldable structure to provide an enhanced user experience. For example, the electronic device may include one or more hinge assemblies that rotatably connect housing parts to one another. The one or more hinge assemblies may include components for rotatably connecting the housing parts. For example, a hinge assembly may include components such as rotators, arms, gears, and shafts. A hinge assembly may include brackets for securing said components.

[0003] The information described above may be provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art in relation to the present disclosure.

[0004] A foldable electronic device is disclosed. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part. The hinge assembly may include a first bracket. The hinge assembly may include rotators rotatably coupled to the first bracket and configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part. The hinge assembly may include arms configured to synchronize the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part. The hinge assembly may include a gear set comprising driving gears configured to rotate together with the rotation of the arms and one or more idle gears engaged with the driving gears. The hinge assembly may include shafts each coupled to the driving gears included in the gear set. The hinge assembly may include a second bracket comprising a first portion that secures the shafts and a second portion that protrudes from the first portion. The hinge assembly may include an elastic member that presses the second bracket. The second bracket may be secured to the first bracket through the second portion of the second bracket, which is pressed by the elastic member and inserted into a groove of the first bracket.

[0005] A foldable electronic device is disclosed. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge cover that at least partially covers the hinge assembly. The hinge assembly may include a first bracket. The hinge assembly may include rotators rotatably coupled to the first bracket and configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part. The hinge assembly may include arms configured to synchronize the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part. The hinge assembly may include a gear set comprising drive gears configured to rotate together with the rotation of the arms and one or more idle gears engaged with the drive gears. The hinge assembly may include shafts that are each coupled to the driving gears included in the gear set. The hinge assembly may include a second bracket comprising a first portion that secures the shafts and a second portion that protrudes from the first portion. The hinge assembly may include an elastic member that presses the second bracket. The second bracket may be secured to the hinge cover through the second portion of the second bracket, which is pressed by the elastic member and inserted into a groove of the hinge cover.

[0006] A foldable electronic device is disclosed. The foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing part, a second housing part, and a hinge cover disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part. The hinge assembly may include a first bracket, drive gears configured to rotate together with the rotation of the first housing part and the second housing part, shafts each coupled to the drive gears, a second bracket comprising a first portion in contact with the shafts and a second portion protruding from the first portion, and an elastic member that presses the second bracket. The second bracket may be fastened to the first bracket through the second portion of the second bracket, which is pressed by the elastic member and inserted into a groove of the first bracket.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0008] FIG. 2a illustrates an example of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2b illustrates an example of a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2c is an exploded view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 is an assembly diagram of the hinge assembly of Figure 3.

[0013] FIGS. 5 and 6 are exploded views of an arm module and a first bracket of a hinge assembly according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the second bracket.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly of FIG. 4 cut along the AA' line.

[0016] FIG. 9 illustrates an arm module in a state before assembling the cam, elastic member, and second bracket.

[0017] FIG. 10 illustrates an arm module in which a cam, an elastic member, and a second bracket are assembled to the arm module of FIG. 9.

[0018] FIG. 11 illustrates the process of mounting an arm module onto a first bracket.

[0019] FIGS. 12 and FIGS. 13 illustrate the processes of the second bracket being fastened to the first bracket.

[0020] FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate the processes of separating the arm module from the first bracket.

[0021] FIG. 16 illustrates a hinge assembly according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly of FIG. 16 cut along the BB' line.

[0023] FIG. 18 illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 19 illustrates the second hinge assembly of FIG. 18.

[0025] FIG. 20 illustrates a hinge assembly including a first bracket including a lower bridge.

[0026] FIG. 21 illustrates a first bracket including a lower bridge.

[0027] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly of FIG. 21 cut along the CC' line.

[0028] FIG. 23 illustrates a hinge assembly including a first bracket including base portions.

[0029] FIG. 24 illustrates a first bracket including base portions.

[0030] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly and a hinge cover.

[0031] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly and hinge cover of FIG. 25 cut along the DD' line.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0034] The processor (120) can control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., program (140)), for example, 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., sensor module (176) or 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., central processing unit or application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., graphics processing unit, neural processing unit (NPU), image signal processor, sensor hub processor, or 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0037] 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).

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

[0041] 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).

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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).

[0045] The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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.

[0051] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) through a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102, or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within a second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0055] FIG. 2a illustrates an example of an unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2b illustrates an example of a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2c is an exploded view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0056] The electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 may include a foldable electronic device (200) described below. Referring to FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, and FIG. 2c, a foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a foldable housing (201), a flexible display (230), one or more cameras (240), and a hinge assembly (250).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may define the exterior of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the foldable housing (201) may accommodate components disposed inside the foldable electronic device (200) as the physical exterior of the foldable electronic device (200) exposed to the outside. At least some of the components for implementing the functions of the foldable electronic device (200) may be disposed within the foldable housing (201). According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may include a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). However, the examples of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the foldable housing may include three or more housing parts. An example of a foldable housing (201) including three housing parts will be described later with reference to FIG. 18.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may include a first surface (211), a second surface (212) opposite to the first surface (211), and a first side (213) that at least partially covers the edge of the first surface (211) and the edge of the second surface (212). For example, the first surface (211) may be referred to as the front side of the first housing part (210), and the second surface (212) may be referred to as the rear side of the first housing part (210). The first side (213) may be connected to the periphery of the first surface (211) and the edge of the second surface (212). The first surface (211), the second surface (212), and the first side (213) may form an internal space of the first housing part (210). For example, at least one component may be placed within the space enclosed by the first surface (211), the second surface (212), and the first side (213).

[0059] According to one embodiment, the second housing part (220) may include a third surface (221), a fourth surface (222) opposite to the third surface (221), and a second side (223) that at least partially covers the edge of the third surface (221) and the edge of the fourth surface (222). For example, the third surface (221) may be referred to as the front of the second housing part (220), and the fourth surface (222) may be referred to as the rear of the second housing part (220). The second side (223) may be connected to the edge of the third surface (221) and the edge of the fourth surface (222). The third surface (221), the fourth surface (222), and the second side (223) may form an internal space of the second housing part (220). For example, at least one component may be placed within the space enclosed by the third side (221), the fourth side (222), and the second side (223).

[0060] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may be configured to display visual information. For example, the flexible display (230) may include a display area comprising a plurality of subpixels. For example, the active area may be referred to as an active area that displays visual information.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the flexible display (230) may include a first portion (231), a second portion (232), and a third portion (233) extending from the first portion (231) to the second portion (232). The foldable electronic device (200) may further include a cover display (235) distinct from the flexible display (230). The cover display (235) may be referred to as a sub-display.

[0062] According to one embodiment, a first portion (231) of the flexible display (230) may be disposed on a first housing part (210) and supported at least partially by the first housing part (210). A second portion (232) of the flexible display (230) may be disposed on a second housing part (220) and supported at least partially by the second housing part (220). The first portion (231) of the flexible display (230) and the second portion (232) of the flexible display (230) may be substantially flat independently of the state of the foldable electronic device (200) (e.g., unfolded state, intermediate state, and folded state). The intermediate state may be referred to as a partially folded state or a partially unfolded state.

[0063] According to one embodiment, a third part (233) of a flexible display (230) may be configured to be at least partially bent based on the rotation of the first housing part (210) and / or the rotation of the second housing part (220). For example, in an unfolded state where the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are unfolded, the third part (233) may be substantially flat. In a folded state or intermediate state where the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) are folded, the third part (233) may be at least partially bent. The flexible display (230) may be a flexible display comprising a third part (233) that can be bent. The intermediate state may be referred to as a partially folded state or a partially unfolded state.

[0064] According to one embodiment, one or more cameras (240) may be configured to acquire an image or video based on receiving light from an object outside the foldable electronic device (200). For example, one or more cameras (240) may include first cameras (241), a second camera (242), and / or a third camera (243). For example, the first cameras (241) may be placed within a first housing part (210). For example, the first housing part (210) may define (or form) at least one opening (241a) that overlaps the first cameras (241) when the foldable electronic device (200) is viewed from above. The first cameras (241) may acquire an image based on receiving light from outside the foldable electronic device (200) through at least one opening (241a). The first cameras (241) can face the rear side of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the second camera (242) may be disposed within the second housing part (220). The second housing part (220) may define (or form) at least one opening (242a) that overlaps the second camera (242) when the foldable electronic device (200) is viewed from above. The second camera (242) may acquire an image based on receiving light from outside the foldable electronic device (200) through the at least one opening (242a). The second camera (242) may face the rear side of the foldable electronic device (200). The first cameras (241) and the second camera (242) may be referred to as rear cameras from the perspective of facing the rear side of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0066] According to one embodiment, the third camera (243) may be disposed within the first housing part (210). For example, the first part (231) of the flexible display (230) may define (or form) at least one opening that overlaps the third camera (243) when the flexible display (230) is viewed from above. The third camera (243) may acquire an image based on receiving light from outside the flexible display (230) through the at least one opening. The third camera (243) may face the front side of the foldable electronic device (200). The third camera (243) may be referred to as a front camera in the view that it faces the front side of the foldable electronic device.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the second camera (242) and the third camera (243) may be positioned below the flexible display (230) or the cover display (235) (e.g., in the -z direction). For example, the second camera (242) and / or the third camera (243) may include an under display camera (UDC) and / or a punch hole camera.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be rotatably coupled. For example, the second housing part (220) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing part (210) through a hinge assembly (250). The hinge assembly (250) may include components that rotatably connect the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) can rotatably connect the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The hinge assembly (250) can be positioned between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) of the foldable electronic device (200) so that the foldable electronic device (200) can be folded. The hinge assembly (250) can change the foldable electronic device (200) from an unfolded state to a folded state. The hinge assembly (250) can change the foldable electronic device (200) from a folded state to an unfolded state. For example, the hinge assembly (250) can maintain the foldable electronic device (200) in a partially folded state (or partially unfolded state) between an unfolded state and a folded state.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the unfolded state may be referred to as a state in which the first direction in which the first part (231) faces and the second direction in which the second part (232) faces are substantially the same. The folded state may be referred to as a state in which the first direction is substantially opposite to the second direction. When the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may overlap each other.

[0071] According to one embodiment, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state and an intermediate state, the first direction and the second direction may be different from each other. For example, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first direction and the second direction may be opposite to each other. For example, when the foldable electronic device (200) is in an intermediate state, the first direction may form an angle with respect to the second direction.

[0072] For example, the foldable electronic device (200) may include at least one conductive portion (214a, 224a) and at least one non-conductive portion (214b, 224b) included within the first side (213) and / or the second side (223). For example, the at least one conductive portion (214a, 224a) may be separated from other conductive portions within the first side (213) and / or the second side (223) by contacting the at least one non-conductive portion (214b, 224b). In one embodiment, the at least one conductive portion (214a, 224a) may operate as an antenna radiator to be used for communication with an external electronic device.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 2c, the hinge assembly (250) may be at least partially covered by a hinge cover (251). The hinge assembly (250) may include a first hinge plate (252), a second hinge plate (253), and a plurality of hinge modules (254). The hinge cover (251) may at least partially cover the components of the hinge assembly (250) and protect the components of the hinge assembly (250). The hinge cover (251) may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (200) through the space between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) when the foldable electronic device (200) is in a folded state. When the foldable electronic device (200) is in an unfolded state, the hinge cover (251) may be covered by the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The hinge cover (251) may be referred to as a hinge housing.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) are each operatively coupled to the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), respectively, thereby allowing the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) to be rotatably connected. For example, the first hinge plate (252) may be coupled to the first support portion (215) of the first housing part (210), and the second hinge plate (253) may be coupled to the second support portion (227) of the second housing part (220). As the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) are operatively coupled to the first support part (215) and the second support part (227), respectively, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be rotatable according to the rotation of the first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253).

[0075] According to one embodiment, a plurality of hinge modules (254) can rotate a first hinge plate (252) and a second hinge plate (253). For example, the plurality of hinge modules (254) may include gears that are rotatably engaged with each other. The first hinge plate (252) and the second hinge plate (253) can be rotated based on the rotational movement of the gears of the plurality of hinge modules (254).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may include a first support portion (215) and a rear cover (216). The first support portion (215) is disposed inside the first housing part (210) and may support at least one component disposed inside the first housing part (210). The rear cover (216) may at least partially form a second surface (212) of the first housing part (210). For example, the second housing part (220) may include a second support portion (227). The second support portion (227) is disposed inside the second housing part (220) and may support at least one component disposed inside the second housing part (220). For example, a cover display (235) may be disposed below (e.g., in the -z direction) the second support portion (227). According to one embodiment, a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (230) of FIG. 2a) can define the front side of the foldable electronic device (200), and a rear cover (216) opposite to the flexible display can define the rear side of the foldable electronic device (200).

[0077] A foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of electronic components for implementing various functions in addition to the one or more cameras (240) described above. For example, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first printed circuit board (261), a second printed circuit board (262), a flexible printed circuit board (263), and / or a battery (189). The electronic components described above are exemplary and are not limited thereto.

[0078] For example, the first printed circuit board (261) and the second printed circuit board (262) can each provide electrical connections between components within the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the first printed circuit board (261) can be placed within the first housing part (210), and the second printed circuit board (262) can be placed within the second housing part (220). The first printed circuit board (261) can provide electrical connections between electronic components placed within the first housing part (210). The second printed circuit board (262) can provide electrical connections between electronic components placed within the second housing part (220). A flexible printed circuit board (263) can electrically connect the first printed circuit board (261) and the second printed circuit board (262). For example, the flexible printed circuit board (263) may extend from the first printed circuit board (261) across the hinge assembly (250) to the second printed circuit board (262). For example, the flexible printed circuit board (263) may overlap at least partially with the hinge assembly (250).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the battery (189) is a device for supplying power to at least one component of the foldable electronic device (200), and may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery and / or a rechargeable secondary battery.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a plurality of antennas (ANT1, ANT2, ANT3, or ANT4) to be used for communication with an external electronic device. For example, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a main antenna (ANT1), a sub-antenna (ANT2), an ultra-wide band (UWB) antenna (ANT3), and / or an antenna (ANT4) for short-range wireless communication. However, it is not limited thereto. For example, the main antenna (ANT1) may include one or more conductive portions forming at least a portion of the first housing part (210) or the second housing part (220). For example, the main antenna (ANT1) may include a plurality of conductive portions forming an edge portion of the first housing part (210). For example, the main antenna (ANT1) may further include conductive portions forming an upper edge or a side edge of the first housing part (210). The main antenna (ANT1) can be configured to transmit and / or receive signals of various frequency bands through each of the plurality of conductive parts or a combination of the plurality of conductive parts.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may be configured to provide an unfolding movement and a folding movement of the foldable electronic device (200). In the present disclosure, the folding movement may be referred to as an operation of the foldable electronic device (200) to change the state of the foldable electronic device (200) from an unfolded state (e.g., the state shown in FIG. 2a) to a folded state (e.g., the state shown in FIG. 2b). For example, the folding movement may be referred to as an operation in which the first housing part (210) rotates in a first rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) with respect to the second housing part (220), and the second housing part (220) rotates in a second rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) opposite to the first rotational direction with respect to the first housing part (210). In the present disclosure, the unfolding operation may be referred to as an operation of the foldable electronic device (200) that changes the state of the foldable electronic device (200) from a folded state to an unfolded state. For example, the unfolding operation may be referred to as an operation in which the first housing part (210) rotates in a second rotational direction relative to the second housing part (220), and the second housing part (220) rotates in a first rotational direction relative to the first housing part (210).

[0082] If the hinge assembly (250) includes a separate structure (e.g., a ring structure) for securing the shafts (e.g., the shafts (350) of FIG. 3), an increase in the thickness of the hinge assembly (250) is caused. In order for the structure to be secured to the shafts (350), at least one of the shafts (350) includes a groove into which the structure can be inserted and secured. To form the groove, a thickness of the shafts (350) greater than a certain thickness is required.

[0083] A foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a shaft bracket (e.g., a second shaft (352) of FIG. 3) that is directly connected to a rotator bracket (e.g., a first bracket (310) of FIG. 3) without including a separate structure for fixing the shafts (350). Hereinafter, the structure of the hinge assembly (250) is described.

[0084] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is an assembly view of the hinge assembly of FIG. 3.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may include components for rotatably connecting a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (210) of FIG. 2a) and a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 2a). The components of the hinge assembly (250) illustrated in FIG. 3 may be included in one of the hinge modules (254) of FIG. 2c. For example, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be rotatably connected to each other through the hinge assembly (250). When an external force is applied to the first housing part (210) and / or the second housing part (220), the components of the hinge assembly (250) may operate in response to the external force. The above external force may be referred to as a torque provided from a user to the first housing part (210) and / or the second housing part (220) to change the state of the foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a).

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the hinge assembly (250) may include a first bracket (310), rotators (320), arms (330), a set of gears (340), shafts (350) (e.g., a first shaft (351) and a second shaft (352)), a second bracket (360), and / or an elastic member (370).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the rotators (320) may be configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the rotation of the second housing part (220). For example, the rotators (320) may include a first rotator (321) configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part (210) and a second rotator (322) configured to guide the rotation of the second housing part (220).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (310) may be configured to guide the rotation of the rotators (320). For example, the rotators (320) may be rotatably coupled to the first bracket (310). For example, the first bracket (310) may include a first rail portion (311a) to which the first rotator (321) is rotatably coupled and a second rail portion (311b) to which the second rotator (322) is rotatably coupled. The first rotator (321) may be inserted into the first rail portion (311a) of the first bracket (310) and rotate along the first rail portion (311a). The second rotator (322) is inserted into the second rail portion (311b) of the first bracket (310) and can rotate along the second rail portion (311b).

[0089] For example, the first bracket (310) may be fastened to a hinge cover (e.g., the hinge cover (251) of FIG. 4) that partially covers the hinge assembly (250) and is positioned between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). For example, the first bracket (310) may be fastened to the hinge cover (251) through a screw that passes through the first bracket (310) and is fastened to the hinge cover (251). The first bracket (310) may be referred to as a rotator bracket in that it is rotatably coupled to the rotators (320).

[0090] According to one embodiment, each of the first rotator (321) and the second rotator (322) may include two or more sub-rotators. For example, the first rotator (321) may include a first sub-rotator (321a) coupled to the first bracket (310) and a second sub-rotator (321b) coupled to the first sub-rotator (321a). For example, the second rotator (322) may include a third sub-rotator (322a) coupled to the second bracket (360) and a fourth sub-rotator (322b) coupled to the third sub-rotator (322a). The second sub-rotator (321b) and the fourth sub-rotator (322b) may be coupled to a coupling bracket described later and configured to rotate together with the rotation of the first housing part (210) or the second housing part (220). During the folding or unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device (200), the rotation angles of each of the two or more sub-rotators may be different. For example, during the folding or unfolding operation of the foldable electronic device (200), the rotation angle of the first sub-rotator (321a) and the rotation angle of the third sub-rotator (322a) may be different from the rotation angle of the second sub-rotator (321b) and the rotation angle of the fourth sub-rotator (322b). For example, during a folding or unfolding operation, the rotation angle of the first sub-rotator (321a) and the rotation angle of the third sub-rotator (322a) may be smaller than the rotation angle of the second sub-rotator (321b) and the rotation angle of the fourth sub-rotator (322b). As the rotators (320) include two or more sub-rotators, the bonding area between the rotators (320) and the first bracket (310) may be increased in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200). For example, the bonding area may be referred to as the area of ​​the portion where the rotators (320) and the first bracket (310) come into contact with each other.When the foldable electronic device (200) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the rotators (320) can be rotated relative to the first bracket (310). As the rotators (320) rotate, the contact area between the rotators (320) and the first bracket (310) can be reduced, and thus the bonding area between the rotators (320) and the first bracket (310) can be reduced. If the rotators (320) include two or more sub-rotators, the first sub-rotator (321a) and the third sub-rotator (322a) directly bonded to the first bracket (310) can be rotated at a smaller angle than the second sub-rotator (321b) and the fourth sub-rotator (322b). Since the rotation angle of the first sub-rotator (321a) and the rotation angle of the third sub-rotator (322a) are smaller than the rotation angle of the second sub-rotator (321b) and the rotation angle of the fourth sub-rotator (322b), the coupling area can be relatively increased in the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200). With the increase in the coupling area, the rotators (320) can be stably coupled to the first bracket (310).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may further include a gear bracket (307). The gear bracket (307) may be configured to fix the rotation axis of each gear of the gear set (340).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the arms (330) and the gear set (340) may be configured to synchronize the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the rotation of the second housing part (220). For example, the arms (330) may include a first arm (331) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the first housing part (210) and a second arm (332) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the second housing part (220). The arms (330) may each be coupled to coupling brackets (390). For example, the first arm (331) may be coupled to the first coupling bracket (391), and the second arm (332) may be coupled to the second coupling bracket (392).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the gear set (340) may be configured to synchronize the rotation of the arms (330). For example, the gear set (340) may include drive gears (g1, g2) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the arms (330) and one or more idle gears (g3, g4) engaged with the drive gears (g1, g2). For example, the gear set (340) may include a first gear (g1) and a second gear (g2) corresponding to the drive gears (g1, g2), a third gear (g3) and a fourth gear (g4) corresponding to one or more idle gears (g3, g4). One or more idle gears may include a single gear, or one or more idle gears may include two or more gears.

[0094] For example, the first gear (g1) may be connected to the first arm (331) and formed integrally with the first arm (331). For example, the second gear (g2) may be connected to the second arm (332) and formed integrally with the second arm (332). For example, the third gear (g3) and the fourth gear (g4) may be positioned between the first gear (g1) and the second gear (g2) and configured to transmit power (e.g., torque). The third gear (g3) may engage with the first gear (g1) and may engage with the fourth gear (g4). The fourth gear (g4) may engage with the second gear (g2) and may engage with the third gear (g3).

[0095] For example, when the first arm (331) rotates, the first gear (g1) formed integrally with the first arm (331) can rotate. The rotation of the first gear (g1) can cause the third gear (g3) meshed with the first gear (g1) to rotate. The rotation of the third gear (g3) can cause the fourth gear (g4) meshed with the third gear (g3) to rotate. The rotation of the fourth gear (g4) can cause the second gear (g2) meshed with the fourth gear (g4) to rotate. Depending on the rotation of the second gear (g2), the second arm (332) formed integrally with the second gear (g2) can rotate.

[0096] According to one embodiment, shafts (350) may be configured to provide a rotation axis for arms (330) and drive gears (g1, g2). Shafts (350) may be coupled to each of the drive gears (g1, g2) included in the gear set (340). For example, shafts (350) may include a first shaft (351) coupled to a first gear (g1) and a second shaft (352) coupled to a second gear (g2). The first shaft (351) may be inserted into the first gear (g1) formed integrally with the first arm (331). The first arm (331) may include a first support portion (331a) into which a portion of the first shaft (351) passing through the first gear (g1) is inserted. The second shaft (352) may be inserted into the second gear (g2) formed integrally with the second arm (332). The second arm (332) may include a second support portion (332a) into which a portion of the second shaft (352) that has passed through the second gear (g2) is inserted.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the elastic member (370) may be configured to function as a detent, together with the cam (380), to provide an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200) between a folded state and an unfolded state. For example, one side of the cam (380) may be in contact with the arms (330), and the other side of the cam (380) opposite to said side may be in contact with the elastic member (370). However, it is not limited thereto. For example, the cam (380) may not be in direct contact with the elastic member (370), and a separate mechanism (e.g., a washer) may be placed between the cam (380) and the elastic member (370). The mechanism may be interposed between the elastic member (370) and the cam (380). Each of the arms (330) in contact with the one surface of the cam (380) may include a cam portion (e.g., cam portion (410) of FIG. 4) engaged with the cam (380). As the arms (330) rotate, the cam portion (410) of the arms (330) in contact with the one surface of the cam (380) may rotate. As the cam portion (410) rotates, the cam portion (410) moves along the ridge of the cam (380), thereby changing the contact position between the cam portion (410) and the cam (380). Depending on the contact position between the cam portion (410) and the cam (380), the frictional force between the cam (380) and the cam portion (410) may be increased at a position where the contact area between the cam portion (410) and the cam (380) is increased. Due to the frictional force, the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) can maintain a state rotated by a certain angle. This state may be referred to as an intermediate state of the foldable electronic device (200). The intermediate state is a state between the folded state and the unfolded state, and may be referred to as a free stop state or a flex mode. The frictional force may provide tactile feedback to the user during a folding or unfolding operation.

[0098] For example, depending on the rotation of the cam portion (410), the cam portion (410) may press the cam (380). The cam (380) may be configured to compress the elastic member (370) based on the pressure from the cam portion (410) due to the rotation of the arms (330). For example, the cam (380) (e.g., first cam) pressed by the cam portion (410) may move to press the elastic member (370) (e.g., first elastic member). By being pressed by the cam (380), the elastic member (370) may be compressed. In an intermediate state, as the arms (330) rotate, the contact position between the cam portion (410) and the cam (380) may change, and the pressure from the cam portion (410) may be released. Upon release of the above pressure, the elastic member (370) may be extended by the restoring force of the elastic member (370). As the elastic member (370) is extended, the cam (380) may move to its original position. The hinge assembly (250) may further include another cam (301) (e.g., a second cam) and another elastic member (303) (e.g., a second elastic member) corresponding to each of the aforementioned cam (380) and elastic member (370).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the elastic member (370) may be placed within the hinge assembly (250) in a compressed state. The second bracket (360) may secure the shafts (350) and the elastic member (370). The rotators (320), arms (330), shafts (350), and elastic member (370) may be secured to the first bracket (310) through the second bracket (360). For example, the shafts (350) and the elastic member (370) may be coupled to the second bracket (360), and the second bracket (360) may be secured to the first bracket (310) in a coupled state with the shafts (350) and the elastic member (370). As the second bracket (360) is fastened to the first bracket (310), the positions of the rotators (320), arms (330), shafts (350), and elastic member (370) can be fixed. The second bracket (360) may be referred to as a shaft bracket in terms of fixing the shafts (350). The second bracket (360) may not be directly fastened to the hinge cover (251) and may be separated from the hinge cover (251). A structure in which the second bracket (360) is separated from the hinge cover (251) may be referred to as a structure in which the second bracket (360) and the hinge cover (251) are not directly fastened. The first bracket (310) can fix the second bracket (360) by being fastened to the hinge cover (251) while being fastened to the second bracket (360).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may include coupling brackets (390). Rotators (320) and arms (330) may each be coupled to the coupling brackets (390). For example, a first rotator (321) and a first arm (331) may be coupled to a first coupling bracket (391), and a second rotator (322) and a second arm (332) may be coupled to a second coupling bracket (392). The coupling brackets (390) may be coupled to a foldable housing (201). For example, a first coupling bracket (391) may be coupled to a first housing part (210), and a second coupling bracket (392) may be coupled to a second housing part (220).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may include support plates (304, 305). The support plates (304, 305) may be configured to support a third part (e.g., the third part (233) of FIG. 2A) of a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (230) of FIG. 2A). The support plates (304, 305) may be coupled to rotators (320) and coupling brackets (390), respectively. For example, the support plates (304, 305) may include a first support plate (304) coupled to a first rotator (321) and a first coupling bracket (391), respectively, and a second support plate (305) coupled to a second rotator (322) and a second coupling bracket (392), respectively. The hinge assembly (250) may include pins (306) for connecting each of the rotators (320) to each of the support plates (304, 305).

[0102] FIGS. 5 and 6 are exploded views of an arm module and a first bracket of a hinge assembly according to one embodiment.

[0103] In the description below, the arm module (500) may be referred to as a component of a hinge assembly (250) comprising arms (330) (e.g., a first arm (331) and a second arm (332)), a gear set (340), shafts (350) (e.g., a first shaft (351) and a second shaft (352)), a cam (380), an elastic member (370), and a second bracket (360).

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the arm module (500) can be seated on the first bracket (310). For example, the arm module (500) can be seated on the first bracket (310). To secure the arm module (500) seated on the first bracket (310), the second bracket (360) can be fastened to the first bracket (310). For example, the first bracket (310) may include a rail portion (311), a base portion (510), and a side wall portion (520). Rotators (e.g., the rotators (320) of FIG. 3) may be rotatably coupled to the rail portion (311). An arm module (500) comprising arms (330), a gear set (340), shafts (350), a cam (380), an elastic member (370), and a second bracket (360) may be supported by a base portion (510). A side wall portion (520) may extend vertically from the base portion (510). The side wall portion (520) may include a groove (521) into which a part of the second bracket (360) (e.g., the second part (720) of FIG. 8) is inserted. The cross-sections of the base portion (510) and the side wall portion (520) may be L-shaped.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the second bracket (360) may be pressed by an elastic member (370). For example, the elastic member (370) may be pressed by the second bracket (360) and the cam (380). The elastic member (370) may be seated on the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310) while compressed by the second bracket (360) and the cam (380). The side wall portion (520) may include receiving portions (522) for receiving shafts (350) protruding from the second bracket (360).

[0106] According to one embodiment, before the arm module (500) is seated on the first bracket (310), the elastic member (370) may be in an uncompressed original state. When the elastic member (370) is in its original state, the length of the arm module (500) (e.g., length in the y-axis direction) may be longer than the length of the base portion (510). When the arm module (500) is seated on the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310), the second bracket (360) may press the elastic member (370) to compress the elastic member (370). For example, the second bracket (360) may be pressed in a direction toward the cam (380) (e.g., +y direction) by an assembly jig for assembling the arm module (500) and the first bracket (310).

[0107] For example, as the second bracket (360) is pressed in the above direction, the elastic member (370) may be pressed by the second bracket (360). The elastic member (370) may be compressed by the pressure from the second bracket (360). The assembly jig may press the second bracket (360) so that the length of the arm module (500) becomes shorter than the length of the base portion (510). With the elastic member (370) compressed, the arm module (500) may be seated on the base portion (510). When the assembly jig is separated from the arm module (500), the elastic member (370) may extend due to the restoring force of the elastic member (370). The elastic member (370) may push the second bracket (360) toward the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The second bracket (360), which is pressed by the elastic member (370), can be fastened to the first bracket (310). As the second bracket (360) is fastened to the first bracket (310), the arm module (500) can be fixed to the first bracket (310).

[0108] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the second bracket.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 7, the second bracket (360) may include a first part (710) and a second part (720).

[0110] According to one embodiment, a first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) can secure shafts (350). For example, the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) can define (or form) openings (713, 714) into which shafts (350) are each inserted. Each shaft (350) can be secured to the second bracket (360) by being inserted into the corresponding opening of the openings (713, 714). The openings (713, 714) may include a first opening (713) and a second opening (714). A first shaft (351) coupled to a first gear (e.g., the first gear (g1) of FIG. 4) can be secured to the second bracket (360) by being inserted into the first opening (713). A second shaft (352) coupled to a second gear (e.g., the second gear (g2) of FIG. 4) can be fixed to a second bracket (360) by being inserted into a second opening (714). A second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) can be positioned between the first opening (713) and the second opening (714). Since one or more idle gears (e.g., one or more idle gears (g3, g4) of FIG. 3) are positioned between drive gears (e.g., drive gears (g1, g2) of FIG. 3), the first shaft (351) and the second shaft (352) can be spaced apart from each other. The second part (720) is positioned between the first opening (713) and the second opening (714), thereby securing the area of ​​the second bracket (360) that is coupled to the first bracket (e.g., the first bracket (310) of FIG. 5).

[0111] According to one embodiment, a second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) may protrude from a first portion (710) of the second bracket (360). For example, the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) may include a first surface (711) and a second surface (712) opposite to the first surface (711). The first surface (711) may be referenced as the surface of the first portion (710) facing the side wall portion of the first bracket (310) (e.g., the side wall portion (520) of FIG. 5). The second surface (712) may be referenced as the surface of the first portion (710) facing the cam (e.g., the cam (380) of FIG. 4). The second part (720) of the second bracket (360) may protrude from the first surface (711) of the first part (710). The second part (720) is a part that is fastened to the first bracket (310), and as described below, it may be pressed by an elastic member (370) and inserted into a groove (e.g., groove (521) of FIG. 8) of the first bracket (310).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the second bracket (360) may further include a third portion (730). The third portion (730) of the second bracket (360) may protrude from the second surface (712) of the first portion (710). The third portion (730) of the second bracket (360) may support a portion of the elastic member (370).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the elastic member (370) may include, but is not limited to, a coil spring. For example, the elastic member (370) may include a first coil spring (371), a second coil spring (372), a third coil spring (373), and a fourth coil spring (374). For example, the third portion (730) of the second bracket (360) may include a first protrusion (731) and a second protrusion (732). The first coil spring (371) may be supported by the first shaft (351) by being positioned to wrap around the outer surface of the first shaft (351). The second coil spring (372) may be supported by the second shaft (352) by being positioned to wrap around the outer surface of the second shaft (352). The third coil spring (373) can be supported by the first protrusion (731) by being positioned to wrap around the first protrusion (731) of the third part (730). The fourth coil spring (374) can be supported by the second protrusion (732) by being positioned to wrap around the second protrusion (732) of the third part (730).

[0114] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly of FIG. 4 cut along the AA' line.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 8, the elastic member (370) can be pressed by the cam (380) and the second bracket (360). For example, when the second bracket (360) is fastened to the first bracket (310), the elastic member (370) can press the second bracket (360) toward the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310) facing the second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) may include a groove (521). The second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) can be inserted into the groove (521) of the first bracket (310) by the pressure from the elastic member (370). The second part (720) of the second bracket (360) protruding from the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) can be inserted into the groove (521) of the first bracket (310) by means of an elastic member (370). The second bracket (360) can be fastened to the first bracket (310) through the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) inserted into the groove (521) of the first bracket (310). For example, the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the groove (521) of the first bracket (310) so that it can be firmly fastened to the first bracket (310) through the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) inserted into the groove (521). The elastic member (370) can support the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) inserted into the groove (521) of the first bracket (310) by pressing the second bracket (360) toward the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The first part (710) of the second bracket (360) can be supported by the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310).

[0116] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may include a second bracket (360) that is fastened to a first bracket (310) without including a separate structure (e.g., a ring structure) for fixing the shafts (e.g., the shafts (350) of FIG. 7). Since the second bracket (360) for fixing the shafts (350) can be directly fastened to the first bracket (310), a separate structure for fixing the shafts (350) may be omitted. As a result of the omission of a separate structure for fixing the shafts (350), the shafts (350) may not include a groove for fastening with said structure. Since the shafts (350) do not include said groove, the thickness of the shafts (350) may be reduced. For example, since the shafts (350) do not include said groove, the diameter of each shaft (350) may be substantially constant. According to one embodiment, the overall thickness of the hinge assembly (250) can be reduced, thereby providing space for placing other components inside the foldable electronic device (e.g., the foldable electronic device (200) of FIG. 2a). Alternatively, according to one embodiment, the thickness of the shafts (350) can be reduced, so that the thickness of each of the elastic members (371, 372) surrounding each of the shafts (351, 352) can be increased by the amount that the thickness of each of the shafts (351, 352) is reduced, thereby increasing the torque value and elastic modulus of the elastic members (371, 372).

[0117] FIG. 9 illustrates an arm module in a state before assembling the cam, elastic member, and second bracket. FIG. 10 illustrates an arm module in a state where the cam, elastic member, and second bracket are assembled to the arm module of FIG. 9.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 9, in the arm module (500) in a state prior to assembling the second bracket (e.g., the second bracket (360) of FIG. 10), shafts (350) may pass through drive gears (g1, g2) and arms (330). As previously described, the gear set (340) may include drive gears (g1, g2) configured to rotate together with the arms (330) and one or more idle gears (g3, g4) engaged with the drive gears (g1, g2). For example, the drive gear may include a first gear (g1) and a second gear (g2), and one or more idle gears (g3, g4) may include a third gear (g3) and a fourth gear (g4). Each of the drive gears (g1, g2) may be formed integrally with each of the arm modules (500). For example, the first gear (g1) may be formed integrally with the first arm (331), and the second gear (g2) may be formed integrally with the second arm (332). The first arm (331) may include a first support portion (331a) spaced apart from the first gear (g1). The second arm (332) may include a second support portion (332a) spaced apart from the second gear (g2).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the first shaft (351) may pass through the first gear (g1) and the first support portion (331a). The first shaft (351) may fix the rotation axis (901) of the first gear (g1), and the first gear (g1) may be configured to rotate around the rotation axis (901). The second shaft (352) may pass through the second gear (g2) and the second support portion (332a). The second shaft (352) may fix the rotation axis (902) of the second gear (g2), and the second gear (g2) may be configured to rotate around the rotation axis (902). A portion of the first shaft (351) may protrude from the first support portion (331a), and a portion of the second shaft (352) may protrude from the second support portion (332a).

[0120] Referring to FIG. 10, a cam (380), a part of an elastic member (370) (e.g., a third coil spring (373) and a fourth coil spring (374)), and a second bracket (360) can be coupled to shafts (350). As the cam (380), a part of the elastic member (370), and the second bracket (360) are coupled to shafts (350), the assembly of the arm module (500) can be completed.

[0121] According to one embodiment, shafts (350) can be inserted into a second bracket (360) by passing through a cam (380). As described with reference to FIG. 7, a first shaft (351) can be fixed to the second bracket (360) by being inserted into a first opening (e.g., first opening (713) in FIG. 7) of the second bracket (360), and a second shaft (352) can be fixed to the second bracket (360) by being inserted into a second opening (e.g., second opening (714) in FIG. 7) of the second bracket (360). A portion of the elastic member (370) can be supported by the shafts (350) or the second bracket (360). The first coil spring (371) can be supported by the first shaft (351) by being positioned to wrap around the outer surface of the first shaft (351). The second coil spring (372) can be supported by the second shaft (352) by being positioned to wrap around the outer surface of the second shaft (352). The third coil spring (373) can be supported by the first protrusion (731) by being positioned to wrap around the first protrusion (731) of the third part (730). The fourth coil spring (374) can be supported by the second protrusion (732) by being positioned to wrap around the second protrusion (732) of the third part (730).

[0122] FIG. 11 illustrates the process of mounting an arm module onto a first bracket. FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 illustrate the processes of fastening a second bracket to a first bracket.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 11, the assembled arm module (500) can be seated on the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310). When the elastic member (370) is not compressed, the length of the arm module (500) (e.g., length in the y-axis direction) may be longer than the length of the base portion (510). For example, when one end of the base portion (510) adjacent to the rail portion (311) and one end of the arm module (500) corresponding to said end of the base portion (510) are aligned, the other end of the arm module (500) may not be aligned with the other end of the base portion (510). For example, the first surface (711) of the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) may overlap with the side wall portion (520).

[0124] When the elastic member (370) is not compressed, the first surface (711) of the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) may be positioned on the first virtual line (1101) of FIG. 11 that overlaps with the side wall part (520) of the first bracket (310). When the first surface (711) of the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) is positioned on the first virtual line (1101), the arm module (500) cannot be seated on the base part (510), so the elastic member (370) may be compressed in order to seat the arm module (500) on the first bracket (310).

[0125] For example, the elastic member (370) may be pressed in a direction toward the cam (380) (e.g., +y direction) by an assembly jig. As the elastic member (370) is pressed in a direction toward the cam (380), the elastic member (370) may be compressed. As the elastic member (370) is compressed, the length of the arm module (500) may be reduced. In the present disclosure, the length of the arm module (500) may be referred to as the length in the y-axis direction of FIG. 11, as a length in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the hinge assembly (250). For example, as the elastic member (370) is compressed, the first surface (711) of the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) may move toward the cam (380). With the elastic member (370) in a compressed state, as the second bracket (360) moves, the first surface (711) of the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) may be positioned on the second virtual line (1102) of FIG. 11, which overlaps with the base part (510) of the first bracket (310). While the first surface (711) of the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) is positioned on the second virtual line (1102) as the elastic member (370) is pressed by the assembly jig, the arm module (500) may be seated on the base part (510) of the first bracket (310).

[0126] FIG. 12 illustrates the state before the second bracket (360) is fastened to the first bracket (310). For example, FIG. 12 illustrates the state before the arm module (500) is fully seated on the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 12, as the arm module (500) is adjacent to the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310), the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) may be adjacent to the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310). The elastic member (370) may be maintained in a compressed state by being pressed by the cam (380) and the second bracket (360). While the compressed state of the elastic member (370) is maintained, the first surface (711) of the bracket may be positioned on the second virtual line (1102).

[0128] According to one embodiment, since the compressed state of the elastic member (370) is maintained, the elastic member (370) can press the second bracket (360) by the restoring force of the elastic member (370). For example, when the elastic member (370) is not pressed, the first surface (711) of the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) is located on the first virtual line (1101), so the elastic member (370) can push the second bracket (360) so that the first surface (711) of the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) is located on the first virtual line (1101). The second part (720) of the second bracket (360) protruding from the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) can be pressed in a direction (e.g., -y direction) toward the side wall part (520) of the first bracket (310) by the restoring force of the elastic member (370). Since the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) is not aligned with the groove (521) of the first bracket (310) before the arm module (500) is fully seated on the base part (510) of the first bracket (310), the second part (720) may not be inserted into the groove (521) even if the second part (720) is pressed by the elastic member (370).

[0129] FIG. 13 illustrates a state in which the second bracket (360) is fastened to the first bracket (310). For example, FIG. 13 illustrates a state in which the arm module (500) is fully seated on the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310).

[0130] Referring to FIG. 13, as the arm module (500) is seated on the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310), the second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) can be aligned with the groove (521) of the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The elastic member (370) can press the second bracket (360) in a direction toward the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310) (e.g., -y direction), and when the second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) is aligned with the groove (521) of the first bracket (310), the second portion (720) can be inserted into the groove (521) by the pressure from the elastic member (370). When the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) is inserted into the groove (521) of the first bracket (310), the first surface (711) that was located on the second virtual line (1102) of the first part (710) of the second bracket (360) can be moved to be located on the first virtual line (1101).

[0131] According to one embodiment, as the second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) is inserted into the groove (521) of the first bracket (310), the second bracket (360) can be firmly fastened to the first bracket (310). Even if a force smaller than the size capable of compressing the elastic member (370) is applied to the second bracket (360), the elastic member (370) is not compressed, so the second bracket (360) can maintain the state of being fastened to the first bracket (310). The fastening structure of the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) can be referenced as a hook structure using the elastic member (370). Since the second bracket (360) is directly connected to the first bracket (310), a separate structure for fixing the shafts (e.g., the shafts (350) of FIG. 3) can be omitted, so the thickness of the hinge assembly (250) can be reduced.

[0132] FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate the processes of separating the arm module from the first bracket.

[0133] For repairing the hinge assembly (250) or replacing some components, the second bracket (360) may be separated from the first bracket (310). For example, if the second bracket (360) is formed integrally with the first bracket (310), it may be impossible to separate the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360). In this case, it may be impossible to reassemble the hinge assembly (250) or replace some components. According to one embodiment, since the hinge assembly (250) includes a first bracket (310) and a second bracket (360) that are connected to each other through a hook structure, it may be possible to separate the second bracket (360) from the first bracket (310).

[0134] Referring to FIG. 14, the first bracket (310) may include a recess (1410). For example, the recess (1410) may be formed in the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The recess (1410) may be spaced apart from the groove (521) of the first bracket (310). The recess (1410) may define a space (internal volume) between the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) (e.g., the side wall portion (520)).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the recess (1410) may provide a space into which a disassembly jig (1401) for separating the second bracket (360) from the first bracket (310) is inserted. Because the elastic member (370) presses the second bracket (360) toward the side wall portion (520), the second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) may remain inserted within the groove (521) of the first bracket (310). To separate the second bracket (360) from the first bracket (310), compression of the elastic member (370) may be required. In order for the disassembly jig (1401) to press the elastic member (370) toward the cam (380) (e.g., +y direction), the space between the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360), defined by the recess (1410), can be used as a space into which the disassembly jig (1401) is inserted.

[0136] FIG. 14 illustrates a state in which a disassembly jig (1401) is inserted into the space. For example, the disassembly jig (1401) may be inserted into the space between the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) (e.g., the side wall portion (520)), defined by the recess (1410). After being inserted into the space, the disassembly jig (1401) may press the second bracket (360) toward the cam (380). The second bracket (360) may move toward the cam (380) in accordance with the pressure from the disassembly jig (1401). As the second bracket (360) moves, the elastic member (370) may be compressed. The second part (720) of the second bracket (360) can be withdrawn from the groove (521) of the first bracket (310) by pressure from the disassembly jig (1401). When the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) is withdrawn from the groove (521) of the first bracket (310), the connection between the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) can be released.

[0137] FIG. 15 illustrates a state in which the arm module (500) is detached from the first bracket (310). Referring to FIG. 15, the connection between the first bracket and the second bracket (360) can be released as the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) is pulled out from the groove (521) of the first bracket (310) by means of the disassembly jig (1401). When the connection between the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) is released, the arm module (500) can be separated from the first bracket (310). For example, while the disassembly jig (1401) presses the second bracket (360) to compress the elastic member (370), the arm module (500) can be separated from the base part (510) of the first bracket (310).

[0138] A hinge assembly (250) according to one embodiment includes a first bracket (310) and a second bracket (360) that are connected to each other through a hook structure, so that the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) can be separated. Since the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) can be separated using a disassembly jig (1401), repair of the hinge assembly (250) and replacement of some components of the hinge assembly (250) can be performed.

[0139] FIG. 16 illustrates a hinge assembly according to one embodiment. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly of FIG. 16 cut along the BB' line.

[0140] In FIG. 4, the hinge assembly (250) is described as having a structure in which the first bracket (310) is fastened to the hinge cover (251), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 16, the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) can both be fastened to the hinge cover (251).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) can each be fastened to the hinge cover (251). For example, the first bracket (310) may define (or form) an opening for inserting a screw (S). The screw (S) can pass through the opening of the first bracket (310) and be fastened to the hinge cover (251). For example, the second bracket (360) and the hinge cover (251) can be fastened to each other through a structure corresponding to the aforementioned hook structure.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 17, the hinge cover (251) may include a groove (1721) into which a second part (720) of the second bracket (360) is inserted. The second part (720) of the second bracket (360) may be inserted into the groove (1721) of the hinge cover (251) by being pressed by an elastic member (370). The second bracket (360) may be fastened to the hinge cover (251) through the second part (720) of the second bracket (360) inserted into the groove (1721) of the hinge cover (251). For example, the hinge cover (251) may include a base portion (1710) that supports the second bracket (360), the elastic member (370), and the cam (380), and a side wall portion (1720) that includes the groove (1721). According to one embodiment, the base portion of the first bracket (310) (e.g., the base portion (510) of FIG. 5) and the side wall portion of the first bracket (310) (e.g., the side wall portion (520) of FIG. 5) may be omitted, so the structure of the hinge assembly (250) may be simplified.

[0144] In the examples described above, the foldable electronic device (200) is described as comprising two housing parts (e.g., the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) of FIG. 2a), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the foldable electronic device (200) may comprise three housing parts and two hinge assemblies (e.g., the first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (1860) of FIG. 18). The aforementioned fastening structure of the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) may be applied to at least one of the two hinge assemblies.

[0145] FIG. 18 illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 19 illustrates a second hinge assembly of FIG. 18.

[0146] A foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a plurality of housing parts that are rotatably connected. Referring to FIG. 18, the foldable electronic device (200) may include a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a third housing part (1830). The first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220) may be rotatably connected to each other, and the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1830) may be rotatably connected to each other. The foldable electronic device (200) may include a first hinge assembly (250) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), and a second hinge assembly (1860) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1830).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the first housing part (210) may be rotatably coupled to one side of the second housing part (220). The third housing part (1830) may be rotatably coupled to the other side of the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (200) may include a first hinge assembly (250) that rotatably couples the first housing part (210) to one side of the second housing part (220) and a second hinge assembly (1860) that rotatably couples the third housing part (1830) to the other side of the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (200) may have a structure that can be folded twice by the first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (1860).

[0148] A foldable electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may include a flexible display (1840). When the foldable housing (201) is folded or unfolded, the flexible display (1840) may also be folded or unfolded.

[0149] The first state (200a) of FIG. 18 may be referred to as an unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200). The first state (200a) may represent a state in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (1830) are fully unfolded. Within the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (200), the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (1830) may be placed on substantially the same plane. The first state (200a) may also be referred to as an opened state, a flat state, and / or an outspread state in the view that the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (1830) are fully unfolded. In the first state (200a), the second housing part (220) can be located between the first housing part (210) and the third housing part (1830).

[0150] The second state (200b) of FIG. 18 may represent a state in which the first housing part (210) is folded relative to the second housing part (220). Within the first state (200a), as the first housing part (210) is rotated relative to the second housing part (220), the foldable electronic device (200) may change from the first state (200a) to the second state (200b). For example, the first housing part (210) may be rotated in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise) relative to the second housing part (220) via the first hinge assembly (250). When the first housing part (210) is rotated approximately 180 degrees, a second state (200b) may be provided in which the first housing part (210) is placed on top of the second housing part (220). The second state (200b) may be referred to as a sub-unfolded state, a sub-folded state, an intermediate state, and / or a concave state.

[0151] The third state (200c) of FIG. 18 may be referred to as a folded state of the foldable electronic device (200). The third state (200c) may represent a state in which the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (1830) are completely folded. Within the folded state of the foldable electronic device (200), when the foldable electronic device (200) is viewed from above, the second housing part (220), the first housing part (210), and the third housing part (1830) may overlap each other. Within the second state (200b), as the third housing part (1830) is rotated relative to the second housing part (220), the foldable electronic device (200) may change from the second state (200b) to the third state (200c). For example, the third housing part (1830) can be rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., clockwise) with respect to the second housing part (220) via the second hinge assembly (1860). In the second state (200b), when the third housing part (1830) is rotated about 180 degrees, a third state (200c) may be provided in which the third housing part (1830) is placed over the first housing part (210). In the third state (200c), the flexible display (1840) may not be exposed to the outside of the foldable electronic device (200) by being covered by the second housing part (220), the first housing part (210), and / or the third housing part (1830). In the third state, the first housing part (210) may be positioned between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1830). In the third state, a cover display (1840) placed on the third housing part (1830) may be exposed to the outside. The third state (200c) may be referred to as a closed state in the sense that the first housing part (210), the second housing part (220), and the third housing part (1830) are completely folded.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (1860) may be different. For example, in a third state (200c), the second hinge assembly (1860) may have a wider width than the first hinge assembly (250) so that the first housing part (210) can be positioned between the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1830). In terms of having different widths, the first hinge assembly (250) may be referred to as a narrow hinge, and the second hinge assembly (1860) may be referred to as a wide hinge.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the first hinge assembly (250) and the second hinge assembly (1860) may include a hook structure of the aforementioned hinge assembly (250). For example, the first hinge assembly (250) may substantially correspond to the hinge assembly (250) illustrated in FIG. 4 or the hinge assembly (250) illustrated in FIG. 16.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 19, the second hinge assembly (1860) may include rotators (1911, 1912), arms (1921, 1922), a gear set (1930), shafts (1941, 1942), an elastic member (1950), a third bracket (1960), and a fourth bracket (1970). Each of the rotators (1911, 1912), arms (1921, 1922), gear set (1930), shafts (1941, 1942), elastic member (1950), third bracket (1960) and fourth bracket (1970) of the second hinge assembly (1860) may substantially correspond to each of the aforementioned rotators (e.g., rotators (320) of FIG. 3), arms (e.g., arms (330) of FIG. 3), gear set (e.g., gear set (340) of FIG. 3), shafts (e.g., shafts (350) of FIG. 3), elastic member (e.g., elastic member (370) of FIG. 3), first bracket (e.g., first bracket (310) of FIG. 3)) and second bracket (e.g., second bracket (360) of FIG. 3).

[0155] For example, the rotators (1911, 1912) of the second hinge assembly (1860) may be configured to guide the rotation of the second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (220) of FIG. 18) and the rotation of the third housing part (e.g., the third housing part (1830) of FIG. 18). The rotators (1911, 1912) of the second hinge assembly (1860) may be rotatably coupled to the third bracket (1960). The arms (1921, 1922) of the second hinge assembly (1860) may be configured to synchronize the rotation of the second housing part (220) and the rotation of the third housing part (1830). The gear set (1930) of the second hinge assembly (1860) may include drive gears configured to rotate together with the arms (1921, 1922) of the second hinge assembly (1860) and one or more idler gears engaged with said drive gears. Each of the shafts (1941, 1942) of the second hinge assembly (1860) may be coupled to the drive gears of the second hinge assembly (1860).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the fourth bracket (1970) may be fastened to the third bracket (1960). For example, the fourth bracket (1970) may include a portion that secures the shafts (1941, 1942) of the second hinge assembly (1860) and another portion that protrudes from said portion of the fourth bracket (1970). The elastic member (1950) of the second hinge assembly (1860) may press the fourth bracket (1970). The fourth bracket (1970) may be fastened to the third bracket (1960) through said portion, which is pressed by said elastic member (1950) and inserted into the groove of the third bracket (1960). According to one embodiment, since the fourth bracket (1970) can be directly attached to the third bracket (1960), the second hinge assembly (1860) may not include a structure for fixing the shafts (1941, 1942). Since the shafts (1941, 1942) of the second hinge assembly (1860) do not include a groove for being joined to a separate structure, the thickness of the shafts (1941, 1942) may be reduced.

[0157] FIG. 20 illustrates a hinge assembly including a first bracket including a lower bridge. FIG. 21 illustrates a first bracket including a lower bridge. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly of FIG. 21 taken along the CC' line.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 20, the hinge assembly (250) may include a first bracket (310) including a lower bridge (2010). For example, the lower bridge (2010) may support an arm module (500) from below, which includes arms (330) (e.g., a first arm (331) and a second arm (332)), a gear set (340) (e.g., a first gear (g1), a second gear (g2), a third gear (g3), and a fourth gear (g4)), shafts (350) (e.g., a first shaft (351) and a second shaft (352)), a cam (380), an elastic member (370), and a second bracket (360).

[0159] For example, the lower bridge (2010) may include a first bridge (2011) and a second bridge (2012). The first bridge (2011) and the second bridge (2012) may extend in the folding axis direction (e.g., y-axis direction) of the hinge assembly (250). The first bridge (2011) and the second bridge (2012) may be arranged side by side with each other. A portion of the arm module (500) may be placed on the first bridge (2011) and the second bridge (2012) (e.g., +z direction) and supported by the lower bridge (2010). The lower bridge (2010) may be connected to a side wall portion (520) that is coupled with the second bracket (360). Referring to FIG. 21, the base portion of the first bracket (310) (e.g., the base portion (510) of FIG. 5) may include a lower bridge (2010). As illustrated in FIG. 21, the base portion (510) on which the arm module (e.g., the arm module (500) of FIG. 20) is seated may be implemented as a lower bridge (2010). Since the lower bridge (2010) includes a first bridge (2011) and a second bridge (2012) that are spaced apart from each other, an opening (2110) may be formed between the first bridge (2011) and the second bridge (2012). A portion of the arm module (500) supported by the first bridge (2011) and the second bridge (2012) may be exposed through the opening (2110).

[0160] Referring to FIG. 22, the hinge assembly (250) illustrated in FIG. 20 may be substantially the same as the hinge assembly described above, except that the base portion of the first bracket (310) (e.g., the base portion (510) of FIG. 5) is replaced by a lower bridge (2010). For example, the second bracket (360) may include a second portion (720) inserted into a groove (521) disposed in the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The fastening structure of the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) may be substantially the same as the structure described above.

[0161] FIG. 23 illustrates a hinge assembly including a first bracket including base portions. FIG. 24 illustrates a first bracket including base portions.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 23, the hinge assembly (250) may include a first bracket (310) comprising a base portion (2310). For example, the base portion (2310) may support an arm module (500) from the side, comprising arms (330) (e.g., a first arm (331) and a second arm (332)), a gear set (340) (e.g., a first gear (g1), a second gear (g2), a third gear (g3), and a fourth gear (g4)), shafts (350) (e.g., a first shaft (351) and a second shaft (352)), a cam (380), an elastic member (370), and a second bracket (360).

[0163] For example, the base portion (2310) may include a first base portion (2311) and a second base portion (2312). The first base portion (2311) and the second base portion (2312) may extend in the folding axis direction (e.g., y-axis direction) of the hinge assembly (250). The first base portion (2311) and the second base portion (2312) may be arranged side by side with each other. For example, the first base portion (2311) may face the elastic member (370) in one direction (e.g., +x direction), and the second base portion (2312) may face the elastic member (370) in another direction different from the one direction (e.g., -x direction). The elastic member (370) may be positioned to face the hinge cover (251), the first base portion (2311), and the second base portion (2312) in three directions. A portion of the arm module (500) may be positioned between the first base portion (2311) and the second base portion (2312) and supported laterally by the base portion (2310). The base portion (2310) may be connected to a side wall portion (520) that is coupled to the second bracket (360). The hinge assembly (250) illustrated in FIG. 20 may be substantially the same as the hinge assembly described above, except that the base portion of the first bracket (310) (e.g., the base portion (510) of FIG. 5) is replaced by the base portion (2310).

[0164] Referring to FIG. 24, the base portion (2310) can replace the base portion of the first bracket (310) (e.g., the base portion (510) of FIG. 5). As illustrated in FIG. 24, the base portion on which the arm module (e.g., the arm module (500) of FIG. 20) is seated can be replaced by the base portion (2310). Since the base portion (2310) includes a first base portion (2311) and a second base portion (2312) that are spaced apart from each other, an opening (2410) can be formed between the first base portion (2311) and the second base portion (2312). A portion of the arm module (500) that is laterally supported by the first base portion (2311) and the second base portion (2312) can be placed within the opening (2410).

[0165] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a hinge assembly and a hinge cover. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly and hinge cover of FIG. 25 cut along the DD' line.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 25, the hinge cover (251) may include a protrusion (2510) that protrudes upward (e.g., in the +z direction) from the bottom surface of the hinge cover (251). At least a portion of one side (2511) of the protrusion (2510) may face at least a portion of the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The protrusion (2510) may be configured to reduce breakage of the hinge assembly (250) or detachment of the hinge assembly (250) from the hinge cover (251) due to external impact.

[0167] Referring to FIG. 26, the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310) may include one side (2611) and another side (2612) opposite to said one side (2611). For example, the groove (521) into which the second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) is inserted may be positioned on said one side (2611) of the side wall portion (520). For example, said other side (2612) of the side wall portion (520) may be opposite to said one side (2611) of the side wall portion (520). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of one side (2511) of the protrusion (2510) (e.g., a side of the protrusion (2510) facing the +y direction) may face the other side (2612) of the side wall portion (520) where the groove (521) is positioned. For example, one side (2511) of the protrusion (2510) and the other side (2612) of the side wall portion (520) may face each other. The protrusion (2510) of the hinge cover (251) may be positioned to wrap around at least a portion of the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). At least a portion of the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310) may be protected from damage caused by external impact by being wrapped by the protrusion (2510) of the hinge cover (251). In the event of an external impact, the protrusion (2510) may reduce the detachment of the side wall portion (520) by reducing damage to the side wall portion (520).

[0168] The technical problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0169] A foldable electronic device may include a foldable housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part; and a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part. The hinge assembly may include a first bracket; rotators rotatably coupled to the first bracket and configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part; a gear set comprising drive gears configured to rotate according to the rotation of the rotators and one or more idle gears engaged with the drive gears; shafts each coupled to the drive gears included in the gear set; a second bracket comprising a first part that fixes the shafts and a second part protruding from the first part of the second bracket; and an elastic member that presses the second bracket. The second bracket pressed by the elastic member may be fixed to the first bracket by inserting the second part of the second bracket into a groove of the first bracket.

[0170] The hinge assembly may further include arms configured to synchronize the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part. The arms may include a first arm arranged to move together with the first housing part and a second arm arranged to move together with the second housing part. The first arm may be fixed to the first housing part. The second arm may be fixed to the second housing part.

[0171] The hinge assembly may further include one or more idle gears engaged with the drive gears. One or more idle gears may be arranged to engage with the drive gears such that the rotation of the first drive gear induces the rotation of the second drive gear. The first drive gear may be arranged to rotate together with the first housing part, and the second drive gear may be arranged to rotate together with the second housing part. When the first drive gear is arranged to rotate together with the first housing part and the second drive gear is arranged to rotate together with the second housing part, one or more idle gears may be arranged to engage with the drive gears such that the rotation of the first housing part induces the rotation of the second housing part by the rotation of one or more idle gears, the first drive gear, and the second drive gear.

[0172] A foldable electronic device (101, 200) is disclosed. The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a foldable housing (201) comprising a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a hinge assembly (250) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The hinge assembly (250) may include a first bracket (310). The hinge assembly (250) may include rotators (320) that are rotatably coupled to the first bracket (310) and configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the rotation of the second housing part (220). The hinge assembly (250) may include arms (330) configured to synchronize the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the rotation of the second housing part (220). The hinge assembly (250) may include a gear set (340) comprising driving gears (g1, g2) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the arms (330) and one or more idle gears (g3, g4) engaged with the driving gears (g1, g2). The hinge assembly (250) may include shafts (350) each coupled to the driving gears (g1, g2) included in the gear set (340). The hinge assembly (250) may include a second bracket (360) comprising a first part (710) that fixes the shafts (350) and a second part (720) that protrudes from the first part (710). The hinge assembly (250) may include an elastic member (370) that presses the second bracket (360).The second bracket (360) can be secured to the first bracket (310) through the second part (720) of the second bracket (360), which is pressed by the elastic member (370) and inserted into the groove (521) of the first bracket (310).

[0173] The groove of the first bracket may include a void located between the first surface of the first bracket and the second surface facing the first surface. The second part of the second bracket may be fixed by being inserted between the first surface and the second surface of the first bracket.

[0174] The above arms may include a first arm arranged to move together with a first housing part and a second arm arranged to move together with a second housing part. The first arm may be fixed to the first housing part. The second arm may be fixed to the second housing part.

[0175] One or more idler gears may be arranged to mesh with the drive gears so that the rotation of the first drive gear induces the rotation of the second drive gear. The first drive gear may be arranged to rotate together with the first arm, and the second drive gear may be arranged to rotate together with the second arm. When the first drive gear is arranged to rotate together with the first arm and the second drive gear is arranged to rotate together with the second arm, one or more idler gears may be arranged to mesh with the drive gears so that the rotation of the first arm induces the rotation of the second arm by the rotation of one or more idler gears, the first drive gear, and the second drive gear.

[0176] According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly (250) may further include a cam (380) comprising one surface in contact with the arms (330) and another surface opposite to the one surface and in contact with the elastic member (370). The elastic member (370) may be configured to be compressed by the second bracket (360) and the cam (380).

[0177] According to one embodiment, each of the arms (330) may include a cam portion (410) that contacts the cam (380). The cam (380) may be configured to compress the elastic member (370) based on pressure from the cam portion (410) according to the rotation of each of the arms (330). The cam (380), the cam portion (410) of each of the arms (330), and the elastic member (370) may be configured to maintain an intermediate state between the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (101, 200) and the folded state of the foldable electronic device (101, 200).

[0178] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (310) may include a rail portion (311) to which the rotators (320) are rotatably coupled. The first bracket (310) may include a base portion (510) that supports the second bracket (360). The first bracket (310) may include a side wall portion (520) perpendicular to the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310). The groove (521) of the first bracket (310) may be disposed within the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310).

[0179] According to one embodiment, the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310) can support the arms (330), the gear set (340), the shafts (350), the cam (380), the elastic member (370), and the second bracket (360).

[0180] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (310) may include a recess (1410) that is spaced apart from the groove (521) and defines the space between the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the space between the first bracket (310) and the second bracket (360) defined by the recess (1410) can be used as a space into which a jig for separating the second bracket (360) from the first bracket (310) is inserted.

[0182] According to one embodiment, the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) may define (or form) openings (713, 714) into which the shafts (350) are each inserted. The shafts (350) may be fixed to the second bracket (360) by being inserted into the openings (713, 714) of the first portion (710).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) may protrude from the first surface (711) of the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) facing the first bracket (310). The second bracket (360) may further include a third portion (730) that supports the elastic member (370) and protrudes from the second surface (712) of the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) opposite to the first surface (711) of the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360).

[0184] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101, 200) may further include a hinge cover (251) that partially covers the hinge assembly (250) and is disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The first bracket (310) may be fastened to the hinge cover (251).

[0185] According to one embodiment, the second bracket (360) can be separated from the hinge cover (251).

[0186] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (251) may include a protrusion (2510) protruding from the bottom of the hinge cover (251). At least a portion of one side of the protrusion (2510) may face at least a portion of the opposite side (2612) of the surface (2611) of the first bracket (310) on which the groove (521) is placed.

[0187] According to one embodiment, the diameter of each of the shafts (350) can be substantially constant.

[0188] According to one embodiment, the rotators (320) may include a first rotator (321) configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part (210), and a second rotator (322) configured to guide the rotation of the second housing part (220). The arms (330) may include a first arm (331) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the first housing part (210), and a second arm (332) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the second housing part (220). The gear set (340) may include a first gear (g1) formed integrally with the first arm (331) and a second gear (g2) formed integrally with the second arm (332). The first gear (g1) and the second gear (g2) may correspond to the driving gears (g1, g2). The gear set (340) may include a third gear (g3) engaged with the first gear (g1), and a fourth gear (g4) engaged with the second gear (g2) and the third gear (g3). The third gear (g3) and the fourth gear (g4) may correspond to one or more idler gears (g3, g4). The shafts (350) may include a first shaft (351) coupled to the first gear (g1), and a second shaft (352) coupled to the second gear (g2).

[0189] According to one embodiment, the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) may define (or form) a first opening (713) into which the first shaft (351) is inserted, and a second opening (714) into which the second shaft (352) is inserted. The second portion (720) of the second bracket (360) may be positioned between the first opening (713) and the second opening (714).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the foldable electronic device (101, 200) may further include a flexible display (230). The flexible display (230) may include a first part (231) disposed on the first housing part (210), a second part (232) disposed on the second housing part (220), and a third part (233) extending from the first part (231) of the flexible display (230) to the second part (232) of the flexible display (230) and configured to bend according to the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the rotation of the second housing part (220).

[0191] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may further include a third housing part (1830). The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may further include another hinge assembly (1860) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1830).

[0192] According to one embodiment, the elastic member (370) may be placed between the base portion (510) and the hinge cover (251).

[0193] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (310) may include a first base portion (2311) facing the elastic member (370) in one direction, a second base portion (2312) facing the elastic member (370) in a different direction from the one direction, and a side wall portion (520) perpendicular to the first base portion (2311) and the second base portion (2312). The groove (521) of the first bracket (310) may be positioned within the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The elastic member (370) may be positioned to face the hinge cover (251), the first base portion (2311), and the second base portion (2312) in three different directions.

[0194] A foldable electronic device (101, 200) is disclosed. The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a foldable housing (201) comprising a first housing part (210) and a second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a hinge assembly (250) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a hinge cover (251) that at least partially covers the hinge assembly (250). The hinge assembly (250) may include a first bracket (310). The hinge assembly (250) may include rotators (320) rotatably coupled to the first bracket (310) and configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the rotation of the second housing part (220). The hinge assembly (250) may include arms (330) configured to synchronize the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the rotation of the second housing part (220). The hinge assembly (250) may include a gear set (340) comprising drive gears (g1, g2) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the arms (330) and one or more idle gears (g3, g4) engaged with the drive gears (g1, g2). The hinge assembly (250) may include shafts (350) that are respectively coupled to the driving gears (g1, g2) included in the gear set (340). The hinge assembly (250) may include a second bracket (360) comprising a first part (710) that fixes the shafts (350) and a second part (720) that protrudes from the first part (710). The hinge assembly (250) may include an elastic member (370) that presses the second bracket (360).The second bracket (360) can be secured to the hinge cover (251) through the second part (720) of the second bracket (360), which is pressed by the elastic member (370) and inserted into the groove (521) of the hinge cover (251).

[0195] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (310) can be fastened to the hinge cover (251).

[0196] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (251) may include a base portion (510) that supports the second bracket (360), and a side wall portion (520) perpendicular to the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310). The groove (521) of the hinge cover (251) may be disposed within the side wall portion (520) of the hinge cover (251).

[0197] According to one embodiment, the first portion (710) of the second bracket (360) may include openings (713, 714) into which the shafts (350) are respectively inserted. The shafts (350) may be fixed to the second bracket (360) by being inserted into the openings (713, 714) of the first portion (710).

[0198] A foldable electronic device (101, 200) is disclosed. The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a foldable housing (201) comprising a first housing part (210), a second housing part (220), and a hinge cover (251) disposed between the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may include a hinge assembly (250) that rotatably connects the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220). The hinge assembly (250) may include a first bracket (310), drive gears (g1, g2) configured to rotate together with the rotation of the first housing part (210) and the second housing part (220), shafts (350) each coupled to the drive gears (g1, g2), a second bracket (360) comprising a first part (710) in contact with the shafts (350) and a second part (720) protruding from the first part (710), and an elastic member (370) that presses the second bracket (360). The second bracket (360) can be fastened to the first bracket (310) through the second part (720) of the second bracket (360), which is pressed by the elastic member (370) and inserted into the groove (521) of the first bracket (310).

[0199] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (310) may include a base portion (510) that supports the second bracket (360) in one direction, and a side wall portion (520) perpendicular to the base portion (510) of the first bracket (310). The groove (521) of the first bracket (310) may be disposed within the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310).

[0200] According to one embodiment, the elastic member (370) may be placed between the base portion (510) and the hinge cover (251).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the first bracket (310) may include a first base portion (2311) facing the elastic member (370) in one direction, a second base portion (2312) facing the elastic member (370) in a different direction from the one direction, and a side wall portion (520) perpendicular to the first base portion (2311) and the second base portion (2312). The groove (521) of the first bracket (310) may be positioned within the side wall portion (520) of the first bracket (310). The elastic member (370) may be positioned to face the hinge cover (251), the first base portion, and the second base portion in three different directions.

[0202] According to one embodiment, the hinge cover (251) may include a protrusion (2510) protruding from the bottom of the hinge cover (251). At least a portion of one side of the protrusion (2510) may face each other with at least a portion of the opposite side (2612) of the side wall portion (520) on which the groove (521) is positioned (2611).

[0203] According to one embodiment, the foldable housing (201) may further include a third housing part (1830). The foldable electronic device (101, 200) may further include another hinge assembly (1860) that rotatably connects the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1830). The other hinge assembly (1860) may include a third bracket (1960), drive gears (1930) configured to rotate with the rotation of the second housing part (220) and the third housing part (1830), shafts (1941, 1942) each coupled to the drive gears (1930), a fourth bracket (1970) comprising a third portion in contact with the shafts (1941, 1942) and a fourth portion protruding from the third portion, and an elastic member (1950) that presses the fourth bracket. The fourth bracket (1970) may be secured to the third bracket (1960) through the fourth portion of the fourth bracket (1970) which is inserted into the groove of the third bracket (1960) by being pressed by the elastic member.

[0204] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0205] The electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various forms. The electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or consumer electronics. The electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the devices described above.

[0206] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B or C," "at least one of A, B and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C" may each include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish said components from other said components and do not limit said components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0207] The term “module” as used in the various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A module may be a component formed integrally, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0208] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., program (140)) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory (136) or external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (120) of the machine (e.g., electronic device (101)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0209] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM It can be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created in a device-readable storage medium such as the memory (130) of the manufacturer's server, the application store's server, or the relay server.

[0210] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, program, or other components may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0211] It will be understood that all embodiments and technical features described above may be combined with one another, individually and in any combination, unless there is a conflict between the embodiments or features. That is, any combination of two or more embodiments described above is envisaged to be included in this disclosure. One or more features from any one embodiment may be included in any other embodiment and may provide the advantages or benefits thereof.

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device, A foldable housing comprising a first housing part and a second housing part; and It includes a hinge assembly that rotatably connects the first housing part and the second housing part, and The above hinge assembly is, First bracket, Rotators rotatably coupled to the first bracket and configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part, Arms configured to synchronize the rotation of the first housing part and the rotation of the second housing part, A gear set comprising driving gears configured to rotate together with the rotation of the above arms and one or more idle gears meshed with the driving gears, Shafts each coupled to the driving gears included in the above gear set, A second bracket comprising a first portion for fixing the shafts and a second portion protruding from the first portion, and It includes an elastic member that presses the second bracket, The above second bracket is, Secured to the first bracket through the second portion of the second bracket, which is inserted into the groove of the first bracket by being pressed by the elastic member. Foldable electronic device.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above hinge assembly is, The cam further includes one surface in contact with the above arms and another surface opposite to the one surface and in contact with the elastic member, The above elastic member is, Configured to be compressed by the second bracket and the cam, Foldable electronic device.

3. In Paragraph 2, Each of the above arms is, It includes a cam portion that contacts the above cam, and The above cam is, The elastic member is configured to be compressed based on pressure from the cam portion according to the rotation of each of the above arms, and The above cam, the cam portion of each of the above arms, and the elastic member are, Configured to maintain an intermediate state between the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device and the folded state of the foldable electronic device, Foldable electronic device.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, The first bracket above is, A rail portion to which the above rotators are rotatably coupled, A base portion supporting the second bracket, and It includes a side wall portion perpendicular to the base portion of the first bracket, and The groove of the first bracket is, disposed within the side wall portion of the first bracket, Foldable electronic device.

5. In Paragraph 4, The base portion of the first bracket above is, Supporting the above arms, the above gear set, the above shafts, the above cam, the above elastic member, and the above second bracket, Foldable electronic device.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 5, The first bracket above is, A recess spaced apart from the groove and defining the space between the first bracket and the second bracket, Foldable electronic device.

7. In Paragraph 6, The space between the first bracket and the second bracket defined by the above recess is, A space used as a space into which a jig for separating the second bracket from the first bracket is inserted, Foldable electronic device.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 7, The first part of the second bracket is, Defines openings into which the above shafts are each inserted, and The above shafts are, Fixed to the second bracket by being inserted into the openings of the first part of the second bracket. Foldable electronic device.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 8, The second part of the second bracket above is, Protruding from the first surface of the first part of the second bracket facing the first bracket, The above second bracket is, A third part further comprising a third part that protrudes from the second surface of the first part of the second bracket opposite to the first surface of the first part of the second bracket and supports the elastic member. Foldable electronic device.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 9, It further includes a hinge cover that partially covers the hinge assembly and is disposed between the first housing part and the second housing part, The first bracket above is, Fastened to the above hinge cover, Foldable electronic device.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above hinge cover is, It includes a protrusion protruding from the bottom of the hinge cover, and At least a portion of one side of the above-mentioned protrusion is, at least a portion of the opposite side of the surface of the first bracket on which the groove is arranged faces, Foldable electronic device.

12. In Paragraph 10, The above second bracket is, Separated from the above hinge cover, Foldable electronic device.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 12, The diameter of each of the above shafts is, substantially constant Foldable electronic device.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 13, The above rotators are, A first rotator configured to guide the rotation of the first housing part, and It includes a second rotator configured to guide the rotation of the second housing part, and The above cancers are, A first arm configured to rotate together with the rotation of the first housing part, and It includes a second arm configured to rotate together with the rotation of the second housing part, and The above gear set is, A first gear formed integrally with the first arm, The second gear formed integrally with the second arm, the first gear, and the second gear correspond to the driving gears. A third gear meshed with the first gear, and A fourth gear meshing with the second gear and meshing with the third gear, the third gear and the fourth gear correspond to the idler gears. The above shafts are, A first shaft coupled to the first gear, and A second shaft coupled to the second gear, Foldable electronic device.

15. In Paragraph 14, The first part of the second bracket is, A first opening into which the first shaft is inserted, and It includes a second opening into which the above-mentioned second shaft is inserted, and The second part of the second bracket above is, disposed between the first opening and the second opening, Foldable electronic device.

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