Electronic device including protective frame

Abstract

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may comprise: a first housing; a second housing rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position unfolded to one side of the first housing; a third housing rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position unfolded to the other side of the first housing; and an abutment structure disposed in the third housing. In one embodiment, when the third housing is disposed between the first housing and the second housing and the electronic device is in a folded state, the abutment structure disposed in the third housing may be configured to abut a portion of the second housing. Other various embodiments may also be possible.

Description

Electronic device including a protective frame

[0001] The embodiment(s) of the present disclosure relate to an electronic device, for example, an electronic device comprising a protective frame.

[0002] The term "electronic device" may refer to devices that perform specific functions according to an installed program, ranging from home appliances to electronic notebooks, portable multimedia players, mobile communication terminals, tablet PCs, video / audio devices, desktop / laptop computers, or in-vehicle navigation systems. For example, these electronic devices can output stored information as sound or video. As the integration density of electronic devices increases and ultra-high-speed, high-capacity wireless communication becomes commonplace, various functions can be integrated into a single electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal. For example, not only communication functions but also entertainment functions such as games, multimedia functions such as music / video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, or functions such as schedule management and electronic wallets are being integrated into a single electronic device.

[0003] With the widespread use of personal or portable communication devices such as smartphones, user demand for portability and ease of use is increasing. For example, a touchscreen display is an output device that outputs visual information, such as a screen, and can also provide a virtual keypad that replaces mechanical input devices (e.g., button-type input devices). As a result, portable communication devices or electronic devices can be miniaturized while providing the same or even better usability (e.g., a larger screen). On the other hand, with the commercialization of flexible displays, such as foldable or rollable displays, the portability and ease of use of electronic devices are further enhanced. For example, an electronic device including a flexible display can be carried with multiple different structures (e.g., housings) in a folded or rolled state, and can provide a large screen when unfolded, thereby improving portability and ease of use.

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

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may comprise a first housing, a second housing rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position unfolded toward one side of the first housing, a third housing rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position unfolded toward the other side of the first housing, and an abutment structure disposed in the third housing. In one embodiment, the third housing may be disposed between the first housing and the second housing so that when the electronic device is in a folded state, the abutment structure disposed in the third housing may be configured to contact / support a part of the second housing.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a first housing; a second housing rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward one side of the first housing; a third housing rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward the other side of the first housing; and a protective frame disposed on the second surface of the third housing, wherein the first surface of the third housing is aligned toward the first housing while the third housing is positioned facing the first housing and the second surface of the third housing faces in the opposite direction of the first surface of the third housing. In one embodiment, the second housing may be positioned facing the first housing or the second surface of the third housing with the third housing in between, at a position where the first surface of the third housing is positioned facing the first housing. In one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the side of the second housing that contacts at least a portion of the edge of the area facing the second face of the third housing on the surface of the second housing may be configured to contact the protective frame.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may include a first housing; a second housing rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward one side of the first housing; a third housing rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing and disposed between the first housing and the second housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward the other side of the first housing; and a protective frame disposed on one side of the third housing. In one embodiment, when the third housing is disposed between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the side of the second housing may be configured to contact the protective frame.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device may comprise a first housing, a first hinge, a second housing rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing by the first hinge and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward one side of the first housing, a second hinge, a third housing rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing by the second hinge and disposed between the first housing and the second housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward the other side of the first housing, and a protective frame disposed on one side of the third housing. In one embodiment, when the third housing is disposed between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the second housing may be configured to be disposed between the protective frame and the first hinge.

[0009] The aspects, configurations, and / or advantages described above regarding one embodiment of the present disclosure may become more apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an electronic device in a network environment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a side view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a side view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the unfolded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure cut along line A-A' of FIG. 9.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure cut along line B-B' of FIG. 9.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing the folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure cut along line C-C' of FIG. 9.

[0023] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure cut along line D-D' of FIG. 9.

[0024] FIG. 15 is a side view showing a folded state of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement of a protective frame of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a protective frame of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a protective frame of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining the binding structure of a protective frame of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing the appearance of a protective frame of an electronic device connected according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing a protective frame of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Throughout the attached drawings, similar parts, configurations, and / or structures may be assigned similar reference numbers.

[0032] Since electronic devices can be transformed into folded or unfolded states, they can provide a wide screen during actual use while being convenient to carry in the folded state. However, in the folded state, different parts of the electronic device may be positioned adjacent to each other, and the device may be damaged by exposure to external forces that the user did not anticipate. Impacts applied to the electronic device in the folded state can cause relative displacement or collision between adjacent structures. Such unexpected displacement or impact can exacerbate damage to the electronic device.

[0033] One embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an electronic device capable of preventing or suppressing relative displacement between adjacent different parts (or different structures) in a folded or rolled state.

[0034] One embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an electronic device capable of suppressing or mitigating damage caused by external forces by stably maintaining a folded or rolled state.

[0035] The technical problems to be solved in this document 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 from the description below.

[0036] The following description relating to the attached drawings may provide an understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, including the claims and their corresponding contents. While the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the following description include various specific details to aid understanding, they are to be considered as one of various exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications to the various embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the scope and technical spirit of the disclosure. Additionally, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted.

[0037] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their literal meanings but may be used to clearly and consistently describe an embodiment of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes, not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the rights or the disclosure defined as equivalent thereto.

[0038] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, it should be understood that the singular forms of "a," "an," and "the" include a plural meaning. Thus, for example, "component surface" can be understood to include one or more of the component surfaces.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) in a network environment (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through a server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), memory (130), input module (150), sound output module (155), display module (160), audio module (170), sensor module (176), interface (177), connection terminal (178), haptic module (179), camera module (180), power management module (188), battery (189), communication module (190), subscriber identification module (196), or antenna module (197). In one embodiment, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (178)) may be omitted from the electronic device (101), or one or more other components may be added. In one embodiment, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (176), camera module (180), or antenna module (197)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (160)).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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 model is executed, 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.

[0042] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (140)) and related commands. The memory (130) may include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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) that is directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] The power management module (188) can manage the 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).

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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 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).

[0056] 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 by the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., a second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for realizing URLLC.

[0057] An antenna module (197) can transmit a signal or power to an external source (e.g., an external electronic device) or receive it from an external source. According to one embodiment, the antenna module may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (198) or a second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to one embodiment, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (197).

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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 different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (101) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104 or 108). For example, if the electronic device (101) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (101) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included within the 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.

[0061] The electronic device according to the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure may be of various forms. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a consumer electronics device. The electronic device according to the embodiment of the present document is not limited to the devices described above.

[0062] The embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of 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” each may 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., first) component is referred to as “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicationly,” it may be understood that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0063] The term “module” as used in the embodiments of the present disclosure 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).

[0064] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software (e.g., a program) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory or external memory) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device) 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-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the method according to the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM It can be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0066] According to one embodiment, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to one embodiment, one or more of the components or operations among the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to one embodiment, operations performed by the module, program, or other components may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0067] In the following detailed description, the length direction, width direction, and / or thickness direction of the electronic device may be referred to, and the length direction may be defined as the 'Y-axis direction', the width direction as the 'X-axis direction', and / or the thickness direction as the 'Z-axis direction'. In one embodiment, regarding the direction in which the component is oriented, 'negative / positive (- / +)' may be referred to together with the Cartesian coordinate system illustrated in the drawings. For example, the front of the electronic device and / or housing may be defined as the 'face facing the +Z direction', and the rear may be defined as the 'face facing the -Z direction'. In one embodiment, the side of the electronic device and / or housing may include an area facing the +X direction, an area facing the +Y direction, an area facing the -X direction, and / or an area facing the -Y direction. In one embodiment, the 'X-axis direction' may mean both the '-X direction' and the '+X direction'. It should be noted that this is based on the Cartesian coordinate system described in the drawings for the sake of brevity of description, and that the description of these directions or components does not limit the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure. For example, the orthogonal coordinate system may be defined differently from the present disclosure depending on the design specifications of the electronic device or the user's usage habits. In the embodiments described below, the direction or alignment direction of the second housing or the third housing may differ depending on the folded or unfolded state of the electronic device. In this case, the orthogonal coordinate system may be referenced based on the state illustrated in the drawings.

[0068] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an electronic device (200) in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device (200) in an unfolded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 may be a view taken obliquely of one side (e.g., front) of the electronic device (200), and FIG. 3 may be a view taken obliquely of the other side (e.g., rear) of the electronic device (200). The components described with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 may be, in part or in whole, identical to the components described with reference to FIG. 1. The components described with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 may be, in part or in whole, identical to the components of the embodiment(s) described below. As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the unfolded state of the electronic device (200) may be defined as a “first state.”

[0069] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a housing (201). The electronic device (200) may include a display (202). The housing (201) may form a space in which the display (202) is placed. The display (202) may be a flexible display. For example, at least a portion of the display (202) may be folded or rolled up, and may be unfolded into a flat shape as shown in FIG. 2.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the housing (201) may include a first housing (210). The housing (201) may include a second housing (220). The housing (201) may include a third housing (230). The first housing (210) may be positioned between the second housing (220) and the third housing (230). For example, when the second housing (220) is defined as being positioned on one side of the first housing (210) in an unfolded state, the third housing (230) may be described as being positioned on the other side of the first housing (210). The second housing (220) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing (210). The third housing (230) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing (210). The display (202) may include a first display area (202a) corresponding to the first housing (210), a second display area (202b) corresponding to the second housing (220), and a third display area (202c) corresponding to the third housing (230).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a support (240, 250, 260). The support (240, 250, 260) may be positioned between the housing (201) and the display (202). The support (240, 250, 260) may be coupled to the housing (201) and may support the display (202). The support (240, 250, 260) may be positioned to surround the edge of the display (202). The support (240, 250, 260) may extend along the perimeter of the housing (201). For example, the support (240, 250, 260) may suppress or prevent the edge portion of the display (202) from coming into direct contact with the housing (201). The support members (240, 250, 260) may include a first support member (240) disposed in a first housing (210), a second support member (250) disposed in a second housing (220), and a third support member (260) disposed in a third housing (230). The support members (240, 250, 260) may be named "body." The support members (240, 250, 260) may be named "frame." The support members (240, 250, 260) may be named "sealing member." The support members (240, 250, 260) may be named "peripheral part." The support (240, 250, 260) may be named a “circumferential part.” The support (240, 250, 260) may be named a “pheripheral structure.” The support (240, 250, 260) may be named a “circumferential structure.” The support (240, 250, 260) may be placed between the housing (210, 220, 230) and the display (202). The support (240, 250, 260) may reduce friction between the housing (210, 220, 230) and the display (202).The support members (240, 250, 260) may be named “cushioning members.” The support members (240, 250, 260) can prevent the display from directly contacting another structure facing it when two or more of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and / or the third housing (230) are in a folded state. In one embodiment, when two or more of the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and / or the third housing (230) are in a folded state, the support members (240, 250, 260) can function as a structure that stably maintains the folded state by contacting or interfering with the housings facing it.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the support (240, 250, 260) may include a first support (240). The first support (240) may be positioned between the first housing (210) and the display (202) (e.g., the first display area (202a)). The first support (240) may be positioned along the edge of the first housing (210). The first support (240) may include a first-1 support (241) and a first-2 support (242). At least a portion of the display (202) may be positioned between the first-1 support (241) and the first-2 support (242). A first-1 support member (241) may be placed at one end (e.g., top end) of the first housing (210), and a first-2 support member (242) may be placed at the other end (e.g., bottom end) of the first housing (210). Each of the first, second, and / or third support members (240, 250, 260) may be named a “support member.” The support members (240, 250, 260) may be named a “deco,” a “finishing member,” or a “non-conductive member.”

[0073] According to one embodiment, the support (240, 250, 260) may include a second support (250). The second support (250) may be positioned between the second housing (220) and the display (202) (e.g., the second display area (202b)). The second support (250) may be positioned along the edge of the second housing (220). The second support (250) may include a second-1 support (251), a second-2 support (252), and a second-3 support (253). At least a portion of the display (202) may be positioned between the second-2 support (252) and the second-3 support (253). The second-1 support (251) may connect the second-2 support (252) and the second-3 support (253). The second-1 support (251) may extend along the edge of the second housing (220) (e.g., the edge (222) in FIG. 3). The second-1 support (251) may be positioned between the edge (222) of the second housing (220) and the display (202). The second-1 support (251) may be named a “support frame” or a “first support frame.” The second-2 support (252) and the second-3 support (253) may each be named a “second support frame.”

[0074] According to one embodiment, the support (240, 250, 260) may include a third support (260). The third support (260) may be positioned between the third housing (230) and the display (202) (e.g., a third display area (202c)). The third support (260) may be positioned along the edge of the third housing (230). The third support (260) may include a third-1 support (261), a third-2 support (262), and a third-3 support (263). At least a portion of the display (202) may be positioned between the third-2 support (262) and the third-3 support (263). The third-1 support (261) may connect the third-2 support (262) and the third-3 support (263). The third-1 support (261) may extend along the edge of the third housing (230) (e.g., the edge (232) in FIG. 3). The third-1 support (261) may be positioned between the edge (232) of the third housing (230) and the display (202). The third-1 support (261) may be named a “support frame” or a “first support frame.” The third-2 support (262) and the third-3 support (263) may each be named a “second support frame.”

[0075] According to one embodiment, although the location or section has been described separately for convenience of explanation, the support members (240, 250, 260) may be arranged in a single frame shape or a closed curve shape to substantially surround the display (202). For example, the first support member (241) may connect the second support member (252) and the third support member (262), and the first support member (242) may connect the second support member (253) and the third support member (263). In one embodiment, the support members (240, 250, 260) may be separated from each other. For example, the second support (250) may be spaced apart from the first support (240) in an area adjacent to the first hinge (270) and / or the second hinge (280), and / or the third support (260) may be spaced apart from the first support (240). The shape or structure of these supports (240, 250, 260) may be appropriately implemented according to the specifications of the electronic device to be actually manufactured.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first-1 side portion (211) and a first-2 side portion (212). Each of the first-1 side portion (211) and the first-2 side portion (212) may form opposite sides of the first housing (210). The second housing (220) may be coupled with the first-1 side portion (211). The third housing (230) may be coupled with the first-2 side portion (212). The first-1 side portion (211) may be named the “first coupling portion.” The first-2 side portion (212) may be named the “second coupling portion.” The first-1 side portion (211) may be named the “first portion.” The first-2 side portion (212) may be named the “second portion.”

[0077] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second-1 side portion (221) and a second-2 side portion (222). Each of the second-1 side portion (221) and the second-2 side portion (222) may form opposite sides of the second housing (220). The second-1 side portion (221) may be coupled to the first housing (210). The second-2 side portion (222) may form a side of the housing (201). The second-2 side portion (222) may be named an “edge.” The second-1 side portion (221) may be named a “third side portion.” The second-2 side portion (222) may be named a “fourth side portion.”

[0078] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third-1 side portion (231) and a third-2 side portion (232). Each of the third-1 side portion (231) and the third-2 side portion (232) may form opposite sides of the third housing (230). The third-1 side portion (231) may be coupled to the first housing (210). The third-2 side portion (232) may form a side of the housing (201). The third-2 side portion (232) may be named an “edge.” The third-1 side portion (231) may be named a “fifth side portion.” The third-2 side portion (232) may be named a “sixth side portion.”

[0079] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first hinge (270) (e.g., the first hinge (270) of FIG. 4) and a second hinge (280) (e.g., the second hinge (280) of FIG. 4). The first hinge (270) may be positioned between a first housing (210) and a second housing (220). The first hinge (270) may be positioned between a first-1 side portion (211) and a second-1 side portion (221). The first hinge (270) may rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). The second hinge (280) may be positioned between the first housing (210) and a third housing (230). A second hinge (280) may be positioned between the first-2 side portion (212) and the third-1 side portion (231). The second hinge (280) may rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the third housing (230). In one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the third-2 side portion (232) may be positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the third-2 side portion (232) may be positioned adjacent to the first hinge (270).

[0080] According to one embodiment, although not illustrated, a first hinge (270) may provide at least one first folding axis that provides a center of rotation of the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220). Although not illustrated, a second hinge (280) may provide at least one second folding axis that provides a center of rotation of the first housing (210) and / or the third housing (230). At least one first folding axis and / or at least one second folding axis may be understood to be parallel to the +Y axis of FIG. 3, for example. In one embodiment, at least one first folding axis may be placed in the area between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) of FIG. 3, and at least one second folding axis may be placed in the area between the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) of FIG. 3. In one embodiment, at least one first folding axis and / or at least one second folding axis may be described as folding axis(s) of the electronic device (200).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the first surface (F31) of the third housing (230) may be described as a surface aligned toward the first housing (210) in a folded state. In one embodiment, the first surface (F31) of the third housing (230) may be referred to as the front surface of the third housing (230). In one embodiment, the first surface (F31) of the third housing (230) may be a surface on which a display (202) (e.g., a third display area (202c)) is placed. In one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a second surface (F32) facing in the opposite direction of the first surface (F31). The second surface (F32) of the third housing (230) may be referred to as the rear surface of the third housing (230). In one embodiment, when folded, a portion of the surface of the second housing (220) may be positioned to face directly the second surface (F32) of the third housing (230). For example, when folded, the second housing (220) may be positioned to face the first housing (210) with the third housing (230) in between, and / or positioned to face the second surface (F32) of the third housing (230).

[0082] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic device (200) in a folded state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The components described with reference to FIG. 4 may be partially or entirely identical to the components described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 3. The components described with reference to FIG. 4 may be partially or entirely identical to the components of the embodiment(s) described below.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may be rotated relative to the first housing (210). For example, the second housing (220) may be rotated (or moved) relative to the first housing (210) between a position facing the first housing (210) and a position extended parallel to one side of the first housing (210). The first hinge (270) may provide a center of rotation to the second housing (220). The first hinge (270) may connect the first-1 side portion (211) and the second-1 side portion (221). The third housing (230) may be rotated relative to the first housing (210). For example, the third housing (230) may be rotated (or moved) relative to the first housing (210) between a position facing the first housing (210) and a position extended parallel to one side of the first housing (210). The second hinge (280) can provide a center of rotation to the third housing (230). The second hinge (280) can connect the first-2 side portion (212) and the third-1 side portion (231).

[0084] According to one embodiment, in the illustrated embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are positioned facing the first housing (210), for example, in the folded state of FIG. 4, the third housing (230) may be substantially positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In the structure in which the third housing (230) is positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) in the folded state, the width of the first hinge (270) may be greater than the width of the second hinge (280). In one embodiment, a structure in which the second housing (220) is positioned between the first housing (210) and the third housing (230) in the folded state may be implemented. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the ordinal numbers "first," "second," and / or "third" assigned to the housings (210, 220, 230) are merely for distinction (or for convenience of explanation), and the relative positions of the housings (210, 220, 230) in the folded or unfolded state may be implemented in various ways.

[0085] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, each of the first, second, and / or third housings (210, 220, 230) may be arranged or stacked in one direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). For example, the third housing (230) may be placed on the upper side of the first housing (210), and the second housing (220) may be placed on the upper side of the third housing (230). For example, the third housing (230) may be placed between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include an antenna (e.g., antenna (223) of FIG. 6). The antenna (223) may be formed on the edge (222) of the second housing (220). The antenna (223) may be integral with the second housing (220) and may be part of the edge (222). The antenna (223) may be manufactured separately from the second housing (220) and may be coupled to the edge (222) of the second housing (220). The antenna (223) may be named the “first conductive portion.” The antenna (223) may include a metallic material. According to one embodiment, the edge (222) of the second housing (220) may be an area of ​​the second housing (220) that overlaps with a portion of the screen of the flexible display (202) that is not visible from the outside of the housing (e.g., the second housing (220)) when the flexible display (202) is viewed in the screen display direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, the edge (222) of the second housing (220) may include a bezel portion of the second housing (220) and an antenna (223).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the antenna (223) may include at least one of electrically conductive parts mechanically connected by an electrically insulating material. Each of the electrically conductive parts may be spaced apart from one another along the edge (222) of the second housing (220). For example, two adjacent electrically conductive parts may be mechanically connected while being electrically insulated by an electrically insulating material. In one embodiment, even though they are electrically insulated by an electrically insulating material, two adjacent electrically conductive parts may form an electromagnetic coupling. In one embodiment, at least one of the electrically conductive parts that are electrically insulated from one another may function as a radiating conductor for transmitting and receiving wireless signals.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first antenna (215), a second antenna (225), and a third antenna (235). The first antenna (215) may form a part of the first housing (210). The first antenna (215) may form at least a part of the surface of the first housing (210). The second antenna (225) may form a part of the second housing (220). The second antenna (225) may form at least a part of the surface of the second housing (220). The third antenna (235) may form a part of the third housing (230). The third antenna (235) may form at least a part of the surface of the third housing (230).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the first antenna (215) may include a first-1 antenna portion (2151), a first-2 antenna portion (2152), and a first-3 antenna portion (2153). The first-1 antenna portion (2151) may be positioned between the first-2 antenna portion (2152) and the first-3 antenna portion (2153). The first antenna (215) may include a first-1 segment portion (2154) and a first-2 segment portion (2155). The first-1 antenna portion (2151) and the first-2 antenna portion (2152) may be spaced apart from each other, and the first-1 segment portion (2154) may be positioned between the first-1 antenna portion (2151) and the first-2 antenna portion (2152). The first-1 antenna portion (2151) and the first-3 antenna portion (2153) may be spaced apart from each other, and the first-2 segment portion (2155) may be positioned between the first-1 antenna portion (2151) and the first-3 antenna portion (2153). For example, in the first antenna (215), the segment portions (2154, 2155)(s) may be positioned between two adjacent portions of the antenna portions (2151, 2152, 2153) to provide an electrical insulation structure while providing a mechanical connection structure.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the second antenna (225) may include a second-1 antenna portion (2251), a second-2 antenna portion (2252), and a second-3 antenna portion (2253). The second-1 antenna portion (2251) may be positioned between the second-2 antenna portion (2252) and the second-3 antenna portion (2253). The second antenna (225) may include a second-1 segment portion (2254) and a second-2 segment portion (2255). The second-1 antenna portion (2251) and the second-2 antenna portion (2252) may be spaced apart from each other, and the second-1 segment portion (2254) may be positioned between the second-1 antenna portion (2251) and the second-2 antenna portion (2252). The second-1 antenna portion (2251) and the second-3 antenna portion (2253) may be spaced apart from each other, and the second-2 segment portion (2255) may be positioned between the second-1 antenna portion (2251) and the second-3 antenna portion (2253). For example, in the second antenna (225), the segment portions (2254, 2255)(s) may be positioned between two adjacent portions of the antenna portions (2251, 2252, 2253) to provide an electrical insulation structure while providing a mechanical connection structure.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the third antenna (235) may include a third-1 antenna portion (2351), a third-2 antenna portion (2352), and a third-3 antenna portion (2353). The third-1 antenna portion (2351) may be positioned between the third-2 antenna portion (2352) and the third-3 antenna portion (2353). The third antenna (235) may include a third-1 segment portion (2354) and a third-2 segment portion (2355). The third-1 antenna portion (2351) and the third-2 antenna portion (2352) may be spaced apart from each other, and the third-1 segment portion (2354) may be positioned between the third-1 antenna portion (2351) and the third-2 antenna portion (2352). The third-1 antenna portion (2351) and the third-3 antenna portion (2353) may be spaced apart from each other, and the third-2 segment portion (2355) may be positioned between the third-1 antenna portion (2351) and the third-3 antenna portion (2353). For example, in the third antenna (235), the segment portions (2354, 2355)(s) may be positioned between two adjacent portions of the antenna portions (2351, 2352, 2353) to provide an electrical insulation structure while providing a mechanical connection structure.

[0092] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may be aligned so as to overlap each other. For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first housing (210), the third housing (230), and the second housing (220) may be aligned in one direction (e.g., +Z direction) in the order described. When the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first antenna (215), the second antenna (225), and the third antenna (235) may be aligned with each other. For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first antenna (215), the third antenna (235), and the second antenna (225) may be aligned in one direction (e.g., +Z direction) in the order described. When the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first antenna (215), the second antenna (225), and the third antenna (235) can be aligned with each other in a stacked direction (e.g., +Z direction) where the housings (210, 220, 230) are stacked. For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first-1 antenna portion (2151), the second-1 antenna portion (2251), and the third-1 antenna portion (2351) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first-2 antenna portion (2152), the second-2 antenna portion (2252), and the third-2 antenna portion (2352) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first-3 antenna portion (2153), the second-3 antenna portion (2253), and the third-3 antenna portion (2353) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first-1 segment portion (2154), the second-1 segment portion (2254), and the third-1 segment portion (2354) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction).For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a folded state, the first-2 segment (2155), the second-2 segment (2255), and the third-2 segment (2355) can be aligned in a first direction (e.g., +Z direction).

[0093] FIG. 5 illustrates a disassembled portion of an electronic device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is not illustrated with a display (e.g., the display (202) of FIG. 2). The components described with reference to FIG. 5 may be, in part or in whole, identical to the components described with reference to FIG. 1 through FIG. 4. The components described with reference to FIG. 5 may be, in part or in whole, identical to the components of the embodiment(s) described below.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the first housing (210) may include a first housing body (216). The first housing (210) may include a first cover (217). The first housing body (216) and the first cover (217) may be combined. At least a portion of a display (e.g., the display (202) of FIG. 2) may be seated on the first housing body (216).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the second housing (220) may include a second housing body (226). The second housing (220) may include a second cover (227). The second housing body (226) and the second cover (227) may be combined. At least a portion of a display (e.g., the display (202) of FIG. 2) may be seated on the second housing body (226). An antenna (e.g., the antenna (223) of FIG. 4) may be a part of the second housing body (226).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the third housing (230) may include a third housing body (236). The third housing (230) may include a third cover (237). The third housing body (236) and the third cover (237) may be combined. At least a portion of a display (e.g., the display (202) of FIG. 2) may be seated on the third housing body (236).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the first hinge (270) can rotatably connect the first housing body (216) and the second housing body (226). The second hinge (280) can rotatably connect the first housing body (216) and the third housing body (236).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a battery (203). The battery (203) may supply power to the electrical components of the electronic device (200) (e.g., a display (202), a second display (290), a circuit board (204)). The battery (203) may be placed between the housing body (216, 226, 236) and the cover (217, 227, 237). The electronic device (200) may include a circuit board (204). The circuit board (204) may be electrically connected to the electrical components of the electronic device (200) (e.g., a display (202), a second display (290), a battery (203)). A circuit board (204) may be placed between a housing body (216, 226, 236) and a cover (217, 227, 237). The electronic device (200) may include a camera assembly (208). The camera assembly (208) may be placed between a housing body (216, 226, 236) and a cover (217, 227, 237). The electronic device (200) may include a flexible circuit board (209) (or a flexible printed circuit board). The flexible circuit board (209) may be connected to the circuit board (204). In one embodiment, the housing body (216, 226, 236) may include a guide structure for setting or distinguishing the assembly position of a battery (203) or a circuit board (204).

[0099] FIG. 6 is a drawing of an electronic device (200) viewed in one direction (e.g., +Y direction). FIG. 7 is a drawing of an electronic device (200) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed in one direction (e.g., +Y direction). The components described with reference to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 may be, in part or in whole, identical to the components described with reference to FIG. 1 through FIG. 5. The components described with reference to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 may be, in part or in whole, identical to the components of the embodiment(s) described below. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The first housing (210), the second housing (220), and the third housing (230) may overlap in one direction (e.g., +Z direction). For example, when in a folded state, the third housing (230) may be located between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). In one embodiment, when in a folded state, one housing positioned between two of the housings (210, 220, 230) may be defined as the second housing.

[0100] According to one embodiment, in the embodiment of FIG. 6 or FIG. 7, one of the hinge assemblies (300) (e.g., the first hinge (270) of FIG. 5) may rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). Another of the hinge assemblies (300) (e.g., the second hinge (280) of FIG. 5) may rotatably connect the first housing (210) and the third housing (230). In a structure in which the third housing (230) is positioned between the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) in a folded state, the width of the first hinge (270) may be greater than the width of the second hinge (280). The first hinge (270) may be named the “first hinge assembly (e.g., the left hinge assembly among the hinge assemblies (300) of FIG. 6).” The second hinge (280) may be named the “second hinge assembly (e.g., the right hinge assembly among the hinge assemblies (300) of FIG. 6).”

[0101] Referring to FIG. 7, the electronic device (400) may include a first housing (210), a second housing (220), and a third housing (230). The description of the first, second, and / or third housings (210, 220, 230) may be applied in the same way as the description of the first, second, and / or third housings (210, 220, 230) described with reference to FIG. 1 through 5. The electronic device (400) may include a hinge assembly (300). The description of the hinge assembly (300) may be applied in the same way as the description of the first hinge (270) or the second hinge (280) described with reference to FIG. 1 through 5.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 7, the electronic device (400) may include a camera assembly (208). The camera assembly (208) may be placed in a second housing (220). The electronic device (400) may include a second display (290). The second display (290) may be placed in a first housing (210). In the embodiments of FIG. 3 through 6, a configuration in which the camera assembly (208) is placed in the first housing (210) and the second display (290) is placed in the second housing (220) may be illustrated. For example, if they can be aligned to face different directions in a folded state, it should be noted that the housing in which the camera assembly (208) and / or the second display (290) are placed is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, and FIG. 7 may illustrate an electronic device (400) in a configuration in which the camera assembly (208) is placed in the second housing (220).

[0103] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (400) is in a folded state, a portion of the camera assembly (208) may protrude from the second housing (220) to the outside of the electronic device (400). However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and depending on the specifications of the electronic device (400), the camera assembly (208) may be placed in the first housing (210) or the second housing (220) without protruding to the outside. When the electronic device (400) is in a folded state, the second display (290) may be visually exposed to the outside of the first housing (210). For example, when the camera assembly (208) is directed toward a subject while the electronic device (400) is in a folded state, the user may perform shooting while viewing a preview image through the second display (290).

[0104] In the embodiments described below, regarding the positions of the housings, "facing positions" or "unfolded positions" may be mentioned. For example, regarding the position of the second housing (220), "facing positions to the first housing (210)" can be understood as a state in which the second housing (220) forms an angle of approximately 0 degrees with respect to the first housing (210), and the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in an overlapping state or the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are in a folded state. Regarding the position of the second housing (220), the phrase “position unfolded to one side of the first housing (210)” refers to a state in which the second housing (220) rotates (or pivots) from a folded state to form an angle of approximately 180 degrees from the first housing (210), and can be understood as a state in which the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) are aligned in a flat shape or in an unfolded state. It should be noted that the above examples regarding the angle in the folded or unfolded state are intended to aid in understanding the relative positions of the housings (210, 220, 230) and do not limit the electronic device according to the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure.

[0105] According to one embodiment, when the third housing (230) is positioned facing the first housing (210), the second housing (220) can be unfolded to one side of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, when the second housing (220) is positioned facing the first housing (210), the third housing (230) can be unfolded to one side of the first housing (210). In one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are positioned facing the first housing (210), in a structure in which the third housing (230) is placed between the second housing (220) and the first housing (210), the folding operation of the third housing (230) can precede the folding operation of the second housing (220). In one embodiment, when the second housing (220) and the third housing (230) are positioned facing each other on the first housing (210), the third housing (230) is positioned between the second housing (220) and the first housing (210). In this structure, the unfolding operation of the second housing (220) may precede the unfolding operation of the third housing (230).

[0106] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure (e.g., the electronic device (101, 200) of FIG. 1 to 7). The components described with reference to FIG. 8 may be, in part or in whole, identical to the components described with reference to FIG. 1 to 7. The components described with reference to FIG. 8 may be, in part or in whole, identical to the components of the embodiment(s) described below.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, the electronic device (500) may include a housing (501) (e.g., a first housing (510), a second housing (520), and / or a third housing (530)) and / or a protective frame (531). In one embodiment, the second housing (520) is rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing (510) and may rotate between a position facing the first housing (510) and a position extended toward one side of the first housing (510). In one embodiment, the third housing (530) is rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing (510) and may rotate between a position facing the first housing (510) and a position extended toward the other side of the first housing (510). In one embodiment, when the second housing (520) and the third housing (530) are positioned facing the first housing (510), the third housing (530) may be positioned between the second housing (520) and the first housing (510). For example, in a folded state, the second housing (520) may be understood as being positioned facing the first housing (510) with the third housing (530) in between. In one embodiment, when in a folded state, the second display area (502b) of the display (502) may be positioned facing the third housing (530). In one embodiment, when the second housing (520) and the third housing (530) are in an unfolded state, the housings (510, 520, 530) may be aligned to form a flat plate shape. In one embodiment, when the housings (510, 520, 530) are aligned in a flat shape, the first housing (510) may be understood to be positioned between the second housing (520) and the third housing (530). According to one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may be named “back cover deco”, “support member”, “deco member”, or “protective member”.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (500) may include hinges (570, 580)(s) that rotatably connect housings (510, 520, 530). For example, the electronic device (500) may include a first hinge (570) (e.g., the first hinge (270) of FIG. 5) that rotatably connects the first housing (510) and the second housing (520), and a second hinge (580) (e.g., the second hinge (280) of FIG. 5) that rotatably connects the first housing (510) and the third housing (530). As will be seen with reference to FIG. 15, when in a folded state, a portion of the second housing (520) may be positioned between the first hinge (570) and the protective frame (531) (e.g., the protruding area (531a) of FIG. 15). For example, when in a folded state, the second housing (520) is positioned between the first hinge (570) and the protective frame (531), thereby preventing the movement of the second housing (520) relative to the first housing (510) or the third housing (530).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the first hinge (570) may include a first hinge cover (e.g., the first hinge cover (571) of FIG. 15) and the second hinge (580) may include a second hinge cover (e.g., the second hinge cover (581) of FIG. 15). In one embodiment, the first hinge cover (571) or the second hinge cover (581) may be understood as part of the housing (501). In one embodiment, the first hinge cover (571) or the second hinge cover (581) may be optionally exposed to an external space depending on the folded or unfolded state of the housings (510, 520, 530). For example, the first hinge cover (571) or the second hinge cover (581) may be substantially concealed by the housings (510, 520, 530) in the unfolded state and at least partially exposed to the external space in the folded state. In one embodiment, the first hinge (570) and the second hinge (580) of FIG. 8 may be understood as being each accommodated in the corresponding one of the first hinge cover (571) or the second hinge cover (581).

[0110] According to one embodiment, the protective frame (531) is disposed in the third housing (530) and may be configured to contact the second housing (520) when the housings (510, 520, 530) are disposed facing each other (e.g., the folded state of FIG. 15). In one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the third housing (530). In one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may be a closed curve or a polygonal shape. In one embodiment, as will be seen with reference to FIG. 21, the protective frame (531) may be implemented by arranging a plurality of segments along a closed curve trajectory or a polygonal trajectory. In one embodiment, when a portion of the display (502) is defined as being disposed on one side of the third housing (530), the protective frame (531) may be understood as being disposed along the edge on the other side of the third housing (530). In one embodiment, when in a folded state, the protective frame (531) can suppress the relative displacement of the second housing (520) with respect to the first housing (510). For example, even if an impact is applied to the electronic device in the folded state, the protective frame (531) can prevent or suppress the occurrence of a secondary impact between the housings (510, 520, 530). For example, the protective frame (531) is placed in the third housing (530) and can contact / support the second housing (520) when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state. Here, "contact / support" may refer to the protective frame (531) suppressing relative movement between the second housing (520) and the third housing (530). In one embodiment, the protective frame (531) that inhibits relative movement between the second housing (520) and the third housing (530) may be referred to as an 'abutment structure' or a 'contact / support structure'.In one embodiment, when an external impact is applied to the electronic device (500) while it is in a folded state, relative movement (e.g., linear movement) may occur between the second housing (520) and the third housing (530) in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis(s). When the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, an abutment structure (or contact / support structure), e.g., a protective frame (531), may be placed in the third housing (530) and may suppress linear movement perpendicular to the folding axis between the second housing (520) and the third housing (530) by contacting the second housing (520) or supporting the second housing (530). A configuration in which the protective frame (531) suppresses relative displacement of the housings (510, 520, 530) will be examined again with reference to FIGS. 9 through 15.

[0111] According to one embodiment, when folded, the protective frame (531) may come into contact with at least some of the sides of the second housing (520). For example, when folded, the protective frame (531) may come into contact with the first side (S1) of the second housing (520), and a second side (S2) and / or a third side (S3) that extend in a direction intersecting the first side (S1). In one embodiment, the second side (S2) and the third side (S3) may be aligned in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first side (S1) while being substantially parallel to each other. For example, when viewed from the front, the second housing (520) may be understood as having a substantially rectangular shape. In one embodiment, a fourth side of the second housing (520), which is not given a reference number, may be connected to the first housing (510) while being parallel to the first side (S1). For example, the second housing (520) may be positioned to face the third housing (530) in a folded state, with the fourth side of the second housing (520) connected to the first housing (510) and the first side (S1) in contact with the protective frame (531). The configuration to be described with reference to FIG. 15, for example, “a part of the second housing (520) is positioned between the first hinge (570) and the protective frame (531),” can be implemented by the fourth side of the second housing (520) being connected to the first housing (510) and the first side (S1) in contact with the protective frame (531) in a folded state.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the display (502) may be a flexible display that can be folded or rolled up. In one embodiment, the display (502) may include a first display area (502a) disposed in a first housing (510), a second display area (502b) disposed in a second housing (520), and / or a third display area (502c) disposed in a third housing (530). In one embodiment, during the folding or unfolding operation of the housings (510, 520, 530), the portion where the first display area (502a) and the second display area (502b) meet (e.g., the deformation portion (DP) of FIG. 13) and / or the curvature of the first display area (502a) and the third display area (502c) may be changed. For example, the curvature of the portion where the first display area (502a) and the second display area (502b) meet in the folded state may be maximum, and the portion where the first display area (502a) and the second display area (502b) meet in the unfolded state may substantially be flat. Although omitted for brevity of explanation, the area(s) where the curvature changes during the folding or unfolding operation may be defined as 'folding area(s)'.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (500) may further include dummy frames (521; 521a, 521b, 522, 523) (e.g., supports (240, 250, 260) of FIG. 2). The dummy frames (521, 522, 523) may include, for example, a first dummy frame (521; 521a, 521b) placed in a first housing (510) (e.g., the first support (240) of FIG. 2), a second dummy frame (522) placed in a second housing (520) (e.g., the second support (250) of FIG. 2), and / or a third dummy frame (523) placed in a third housing (530) (e.g., the third support (260) of FIG. 2). In one embodiment, dummy frames (521, 522, 523) can prevent the edges of the display (502) from coming into direct contact with other structures. For example, the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) can prevent the display (502) from being damaged by contact or friction with other structures. In one embodiment, the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) can prevent external foreign matter or moisture from entering the interior of the electronic device (500) through the gap between the display (502) and the housings (510, 520, 530). In one embodiment, the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) can prevent impact or noise that may occur during a folding operation. For example, when the housings (510, 520, 530) reach a folded state by rotation, dummy frames (521, 522, 523) are placed in the contact portion between the housings (510, 520, 530) so that at least some shock or noise can be absorbed.

[0114] According to one embodiment, dummy frames (521, 522, 523) may be positioned so as to protrude from one side of the housings (510, 520, 530). When the structure protrudes from one side of the housings (510, 520, 530), the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) may come into contact with or collide with other structures first during a folding operation. For example, when the third housing (530) reaches a folded state facing the first housing (510), the first dummy frame (521; 521a, 521b)) and the third dummy frame (523) may come into contact with other structures first. In one embodiment, when the second housing (520) reaches a folded state facing the third housing (530) directly, the second dummy frame (522) may come into contact with the third housing (530) first before other parts of the second housing (520). Here, "when it reaches the folded state, the second dummy frame (522) comes into contact with the third housing (530)" may refer to the second dummy frame (522) coming into contact with the protective frame (531) in the folded state.

[0115] According to one embodiment, when the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) are positioned to protrude from one side of the housings (510, 520, 530), it can be understood that a portion of the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) is a portion of the side of the housings (510, 520, 530). For example, the second dummy frame (522) may provide a portion of the first side (S1), a portion of the second side (S2), and / or a portion of the third side (S3) of the second housing (520). In one embodiment, the phrase “when in a folded state, the protective frame (531) contacts at least a portion of the first side (S1), the second side (S2), and / or the third side (S3) of the second housing (520)” may refer to the protective frame (531) contacting the second dummy frame (522).

[0116] According to one embodiment, in the illustrated embodiment, the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) are illustrated as separate parts from the housings (510, 520, 530), but it should be noted that the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) may be provided in a state in which they are placed on the housing(s)(s) simultaneously with being molded through an insert injection process, etc. In one embodiment, the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) may be made of substantially the same material as one of the corresponding housings (510, 520, 530).

[0117] In one embodiment, the electronic device (500) may further include covers (517, 527, 537) (e.g., covers (217, 227, 237) of FIG. 5). When a display (502) (e.g., a first display) is defined as being disposed on one side of the housings (510, 520, 530), the covers (517, 527, 537) may be disposed on a corresponding other side of the housings (510, 520, 530). In one embodiment, the covers (517, 527, 537) may include a first cover (517) disposed on the first housing (510), a second cover (527) disposed on the second housing (520), and / or a third cover (537) disposed on the third housing (530). In one embodiment, any one of the covers (517, 527, 537) may be a window plate for display. In the illustrated embodiment, a decorative structure for a camera (e.g., camera cover (527a) of FIG. 9) is placed on the second cover (527), in which case the first cover (517) may be understood as a window plate for display. For example, although not illustrated, when the structure is such that a subject can be photographed through the rear of the second housing (520), the electronic device (500) may include a sub-display (e.g., a second display) that outputs a screen through the rear of the first housing (510), and the first cover (517) may function as a window plate for the sub-display.

[0118] In the embodiments described below, reference numbers in the drawings may be assigned identically or omitted for configurations similar to or substantially identical to the electronic device (500) of FIG. 8, and detailed descriptions thereof may also be omitted. For configurations not directly described in the embodiments described below, those skilled in the art will be able to easily understand them by referring to the electronic device (500) of FIG. 8. Additional embodiments may be realized by selectively combining the configuration of the electronic device of the prior embodiment with the configuration of the electronic device of the embodiments described below.

[0119] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an unfolded state of an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure cut along line A-A' of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a drawing showing an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure cut along line B-B' of FIG. 9.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 9 through 11, a first protective frame (533a) or a second protective frame (531b) may be disposed in the first housing (510) and / or the second housing (520), similar to how a protective frame (531) is disposed in the third housing (530). The protective frames (531, 533a, 533b) may provide an exterior decoration, a fixing structure, and / or a sealing structure when placing covers (517, 527, 537) on one of the corresponding housings (510, 520, 530). In one embodiment, the covers (517, 527, 537) may be made of substantially the same material as the housings (510, 520, 530), in which case the protective frames (531, 533a, 533b) may be omitted. In one embodiment, even if the covers (517, 527, 537) are structured to be made of substantially the same material as the housings (510, 520, 530), protective frames (531, 533a, 533b)(s) may be placed to provide a cushioning function similar to that of dummy frames (521, 522, 523).

[0121] According to one embodiment, when dummy frames (521, 522, 523) (e.g., third dummy frame (523)) are defined as being positioned to wrap around the edge of the display (502) on the front of the third housing (530), the protective frame (531) can be understood as being positioned on the rear edge of the third housing (530). In one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may be positioned to wrap around the edge of the third cover (537). For example, the protective frame (531) may be a structure that absorbs shock or noise that may occur during a folding operation, and a structure that attaches the third cover (537) to the third housing (530). In one embodiment, the third cover (537) and / or the protective frame (531) may be a part of the third housing (530).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may include a protruding area (531a) and a seating area (531b). The seating area (531b) may be, for example, a portion of the protective frame (531) that is aligned to form a plane (or a continuous curved surface) substantially continuous with the outer surface of the third cover (537). The protruding area (531a) may refer to a portion that protrudes beyond the seating area (531b) or the outer surface of the third cover (537). In one embodiment, on the rear surface of the third housing (530), the protruding area (531a) may be located at the edge rather than the seating area (531b). In one embodiment, when folded, the seating area (531b) (or the outer surface of the third cover (537)) may come into contact with one side of the second housing (520) (e.g., the front or the second dummy frame (522)), and the protruding area (531a) may come into contact with a portion of the side of the second housing (520). In the illustrated embodiment, the protruding area (531a) may be provided in a section adjacent to the second hinge (580) illustrated in FIG. 10 and / or in the upper or lower portion illustrated in FIG. 11. For example, when folded, the protective frame (531) of FIG. 9 through FIG. 11 may come into contact with the first side (S1), the second side (S2), and / or the third side (S3) of the second housing (520). Here, "contacts the first side (S1), the second side (S2), and / or the third side (S3) of the second housing (520)" may refer to the protective frame (531) contacting the second dummy frame (522) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 13. In one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may not include a protruding area (531a) in the portion corresponding to the second side (S2) and / or the third side (S3) of the second housing (520).

[0123] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a folded state of an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure cut along line C-C' of FIG. 9. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure cut along line D-D' of FIG. 9.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 12 through 14, when in a folded state, a deformation portion (DP) on the inner side of the second hinge cover (581) may be deformed into a curved shape. The deformation portion (DP) of FIG. 13 may, for example, be the part where the first display area (502a) and the third display area (502c) meet. Although not shown in FIG. 13 or FIG. 14, when referring together with FIG. 15, the part where the first display area (502a) and the third display area (502c) meet may be deformed into a curved shape similar to the deformation portion (DP) and positioned to face one edge of the third housing (530). In one embodiment, when in a folded state, the curvature of the deformation portion (DP) of FIG. 13 may be greater than the curvature of the part where the first display area (502a) and the second display area (502b) meet. In one embodiment, when folded, a portion of the protective frame (531) may be understood to be positioned between the second hinge (580) (e.g., the second hinge cover (581)) and the second housing (520).

[0125] According to one embodiment, it can be seen that when in a folded state, the first dummy frame (521) and the third dummy frame (523) are positioned to be in substantial contact. For example, when in a folded state, a certain distance may be maintained between the first display area (502a) and the third display area (502c) so that two different parts of the display (502) do not come into direct contact. In one embodiment, when in a folded state, the second dummy frame (522) and the protective frame (531) may be positioned to be in substantial contact. For example, when in a folded state, the second display area (502b) may be positioned at a certain distance from another structure (e.g., the third cover (537)). For example, the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) and / or the protective frames (531)(s) can function as cushioning structures during folding and / or protect parts (e.g., the display (502)) that are vulnerable to mechanical interference or friction in the folded state.

[0126] According to one embodiment, when in a folded state, the protective frame (531) may come into contact with the side of the second housing (520) (e.g., a first side (S1), a second side (S2) and / or a third side (S3)). In the state illustrated in FIG. 13, by the protective frame (531) coming into contact with the first side (S1) of the second housing (520), the second housing (520) may be prevented from moving to the right relative to the first housing (510) (or the third housing (530)). For example, when in a folded state, a portion of the second housing (520) may be understood as being received or constrained between the first hinge (570) and the protective frame (531). In the state illustrated in FIG. 14, the protective frame (531) is in contact with the second side (S2) and the third side (S3) of the second housing (520), thereby preventing the second housing (520) from moving horizontally relative to the first housing (510) (or the third housing (530)). For example, depending on the viewing direction or the position of the cut line, a part of the second housing (520) may be positioned between two different parts of the protective frame (531).

[0127] FIG. 15 is a side view showing a folded state of an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128] In the folded state of FIG. 15, the reference numeral 'SD' may exemplify the gap from the first hinge (570) or the first hinge cover (571) to the third housing (530). In one embodiment, the reference numeral 'SD' of FIG. 15 may exemplify the gap between the third housing (530) and a part of the display (502) aligned on the inside of the first hinge cover (571) when in the folded state. Here, 'a part of the display (502)' refers to the part where the first display area (502a) and the second display area (502b) of FIG. 8 meet, and may refer to a part that is aligned facing one side of the third housing (530) while deforming into a curved shape when in the folded state.

[0129] According to one embodiment, when in a folded state, a protective structure (PS1, PS2) may be disposed between the housings (510, 520, 530). The protective structure (PS1, PS2) may include, for example, an elastic material. In one embodiment, the protective structure (PS1, PS2) may include the dummy frames (521, 522, 523) of FIG. 8 and / or the protective frame (531). In one embodiment, when the housings (510, 520, 530) include a metallic material, the protective structure (PS1, PS2) may prevent direct contact or direct collision between parts made of the metallic material. In one embodiment, when the electronic device (500) is deformed and reaches a folded state, the protective structure (PS1, PS2) may prevent (or mitigate) the generation of noise by making contact before other parts of the housings (510, 520, 530).

[0130] According to one embodiment, reference number 'IF1' in FIG. 15 may exemplify the location and direction of a first impact (IF1) applied to a first housing (510) or a third housing (530). In one embodiment, reference number 'IF2' in FIG. 15 may exemplify the location and direction of a second impact (IF2) applied to a second housing (520). In one embodiment, a first hinge (570) or a second hinge (580) is a structure that rotatably connects the housings (510, 520, 530) and may allow relative movement of the housings (510, 520, 530) when the first impact (IF1) or the second impact (IF2) is applied. In one embodiment, the designated interval (SD) may vary depending on the magnitude or direction of the external impact. For example, when a first impact (IF1) is applied, if the first hinge (570) allows rotation of the first housing (510) or the second housing (520), the third housing (530) may move toward the first hinge cover (571) relative to the second housing (520). The electronic device (500) and / or protective frame (531) according to the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure may suppress relative displacement of the housings (510, 520, 530) even when an external impact is applied.

[0131] [When the first shock (IF1) is applied]

[0132] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, a first impact (IF1) applied to the first housing (510) or the third housing (530) may have a tendency to move the first housing (510) or the third housing (530) in the left direction of FIG. 15 relative to the second housing (520). When movement of the first housing (510) and / or the third housing (530) by the first impact (IF1) is allowed, the third housing (530) may move toward or come into contact with the curved portion of the display (502) (the portion where the first display area (502a) and the second display area (502b) meet). In the illustrated embodiment, the protruding area (531a) of the abutment structure, e.g., the protective frame (531), may be supported by contacting or being supported by the right side of the second housing (520) (e.g., the first side (S1) in FIG. 9 or FIG. 13), thereby preventing movement of the first housing (510) and / or the third housing (530) relative to the second housing (520). For example, even if a first impact (IF1) is applied, the protective frame (531) (e.g., the protruding area (531a)) may prevent movement of the third housing (530) relative to the second housing (520) and prevent the display (502) from coming into contact with another structure (e.g., the third housing (530)).

[0133] [When the second shock (IF2) is applied]

[0134] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, a second impact (IF2) applied to the second housing (520) may have a tendency to move the second housing (520) toward the first housing (510) or the third housing (530) in the right direction of FIG. 15. When the movement of the second housing (520) by the second impact (IF2) is allowed, the curved portion of the display (502) (the portion where the first display area (502a) and the second display area (502b) meet) may move toward or come into contact with the third housing (530). In the illustrated embodiment, the protruding area (531a) of the abutment structure, e.g., the protective frame (531), may be supported by contacting or being supported by the right side of the second housing (520) (e.g., the first side (S1) in FIG. 9 or FIG. 13) to prevent movement of the second housing (520) relative to the first housing (510) and / or the third housing (530). For example, even if a second impact (IF2) is applied, the protective frame (531) (e.g., the protruding area (531a)) may prevent movement of the second housing (520) relative to the third housing (530) and prevent the display (502) from coming into contact with another structure (e.g., the third housing (530)).

[0135] [When the first shock (IF1) is applied in the reverse direction, or the second shock (IF2) is applied in the reverse direction]

[0136] According to one embodiment, when a first impact (IF1) is applied to the first housing (510) in the reverse direction or a second impact (IF2) is applied to the second housing (520) in the reverse direction, the designated gap (SD) between the curved portion of the display (502) (the portion where the first display area (502a) and the second display area (502b) meet) and the third housing (530) may be larger than the illustrated state. For example, when an impact is applied to the first housing (510) in the reverse direction of the first impact (IF1), the third housing (530) moves away from the first hinge (570) (or the first hinge cover (571)) together with the first housing (510), and when an impact is applied to the second housing (520) in the reverse direction of the second impact (IF2), the first hinge (570) (or the first hinge cover (571)) can move away from the third housing (530). For example, an external impact acting in the reverse direction of the first impact (IF1) or the reverse direction of the second impact (IF2) may not cause a secondary impact between the display (502) and the third housing (530).

[0137] As such, the protective frame (531) according to the embodiment(s) of the present disclosure can suppress the occurrence of secondary impact between adjacent different structures of the electronic device (500) by suppressing at least some relative displacement between the housings (510, 520, 530) even when an external impact is applied. In a structure in which a part of the display (502) is placed adjacent to another structure in a folded state of the electronic device (500), the protective frame (531) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be useful for protecting the display (502). In one embodiment, when the protective frame (531) is placed in a part where the gap between the display (502) and another structure changes due to an external impact, the protective frame (531) may be even more useful for protecting the display (502).

[0138] FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement of a protective frame (531) of an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] FIG. 16 may illustrate, for example, the rear surface of the second housing (520) or the outer surface of the second housing (520) in a folded state of the electronic device (500). In one embodiment, reference numbers 'P1' to 'P6' in FIG. 16 may illustrate locations for explaining the contact structure between the protective frame (531) and the second housing (520). Reference number 'P1' may illustrate a location that illustrates a portion in contact with the protective frame (531) on a first side of the second housing (520) (e.g., the first side (S1) in FIG. 8), and reference numbers 'P5' and 'P6' may illustrate a portion in contact with the protective frame (531) on a second side (e.g., the second side (S2) in FIG. 8) or a third side (e.g., the third side (S3) in FIG. 8) of the second housing (520). Reference numeral 'P4' may be a location illustrating a portion in contact with the protective frame (531) on a side of the second housing (520) that is connected to the first hinge (e.g., the first hinge (570) in FIG. 15) and / or the first housing (510) (e.g., the fourth side). In one embodiment, the first side (S1) and the fourth side may be substantially parallel to each other. In one embodiment, the second side (S2) and the third side (S3) may be substantially parallel to each other. In one embodiment, the second side (S2) and / or the third side (S3) may be aligned in a direction intersecting the first side (S1) (e.g., a substantially perpendicular direction). In one embodiment, reference numerals 'P2' and 'P3' may illustrate a portion in contact between the second housing (520) and the protective frame (531) at the corner portion where the second side (S2) and / or the third side (S3) are connected to the first side (S1).

[0140] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, the protective frame (531) may be configured to contact at least the first side (S1) among the first side (S1), second side (S2), third side (S3), and / or fourth side of the second housing (520). Here, the phrase “the protective frame (531) contacts the first side (S1) of the second housing (520)” may refer to a structure in which, when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, the third housing (530) is aligned between the first housing (510) and the second housing (520), the rear surface of the third housing (530) is positioned to face the front surface of the second housing (520), and the protective frame (531) contacts the second housing (520) preferentially over other parts of the third housing (530). In one embodiment, the phrase ‘the protective frame (531) contacts the side of the second housing (520) (e.g., the first side (S1))’ may refer to a portion of the second housing (520) being positioned between the first hinge (570) and the protective frame (531) (e.g., the protruding area (531a)) when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may be configured to contact some of the sides of the second housing (520) (e.g., a first side (S1), a second side (S2), and / or a third side (S3)). In one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may be configured to contact the first side (S1), the second side (S2), and / or the third side (S3) of the second housing (520), and to be positioned to wrap around at least a portion of the first side (S1). For example, the phrase “the protective frame (531) contacts the first side (S1) of the second housing (520)” may refer to the protective frame (531) being positioned to wrap around at least a portion of the first side (S1) when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state. In one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may be understood to be positioned to enclose a portion of the first side (S1) by including a protruding area (531a). In one embodiment, the second housing (520) may include a second dummy frame (522) protruding from one side, wherein the second dummy frame (522) contacts the protective frame (531), and the protruding area (531a) may be positioned to partially enclose the second dummy frame (522). For example, the second dummy frame (522) may provide at least a portion of the side of the second housing (520).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the protective frame (531) may further include a protruding area (531a) at the point indicated by 'P5' and / or 'P6' in FIG. 16. Since the configuration of the protruding area (531a) provided at the point indicated by 'P5' and / or 'P6' in FIG. 16 has been examined through the embodiment with reference to FIG. 11, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. In one embodiment, the protruding area (531a) may be provided corresponding to the entire section of the first side (S1), the second side (S2), and / or the third side (S3). In one embodiment, the protruding area (531a) may be provided corresponding to a part section of the first side (S1), the second side (S2), and / or the third side (S3). For example, a protective frame (531) may be provided over the entire section corresponding to the first side (S1), the second side (S2) and / or the third side (S3), and a plurality of protruding areas (531a) may be arranged along the trajectory of the protective frame (531) at intervals of a specified size (e.g., length). In one embodiment, the protruding area (531a) may be omitted at the point indicated by 'P1' in FIG. 16, and the protruding area (531a) may be provided over at least a portion of the section corresponding to the first side (S1) at the point indicated by 'P2' or 'P3'. In one embodiment, the protruding area (531a) may be provided at the point indicated by 'P1' in FIG. 16, and in this case, the protruding area (531a) may be omitted from the section corresponding to the first side (S1) at the point indicated by 'P2' or 'P3'.

[0143] According to one embodiment, at a fourth side, for example at a point indicated as 'P4', the protective frame (531) may be positioned facing the display (502). In one embodiment, by omitting the protruding area (531a) at the point indicated as 'P4', the protective frame (531) may be spaced apart from the display (502) and may not come into direct contact with the display (502). In one embodiment, the portion facing the protective frame (531) at the point indicated as 'P4' may be a second display area (e.g., the second display area (502b) of FIG. 8) or a first hinge (e.g., the first hinge (570) of FIG. 8) within the display (502).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the second housing (520) (e.g., a dummy frame (522) of the second housing (520)) may be positioned at least partially between the protruding area (531a) of the protective frame (531) and the first hinge (570) (e.g., the first hinge cover (571) of FIG. 15), and / or between two different parts of the protective frame (531) (e.g., the protruding areas (531a) of FIG. 11). In one embodiment, when the second housing (520) is positioned at least partially between the protruding area (531a) of the protective frame (531) and the first hinge (570), displacement of the third housing (530) and the first hinge (570) in a direction of approach may be suppressed. For example, in a folded state, displacement of the third housing (530) approaching the display (502) may be suppressed.

[0145] FIG. 17 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a protective frame (631) (e.g., protective frame (531) of FIG. 8) of an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 17, the protective frame (631) may include an inner frame (631a) and an outer frame (631b). The inner frame (631a) may be made of a metal or synthetic resin material having a first elastic modulus, for example. In one embodiment, the outer frame (631b) may be made of a synthetic resin or polymer material having a second elastic modulus. The second elastic modulus may be lower than the first elastic modulus, for example. In one embodiment, the second elastic modulus may be lower than the elastic modulus of the second housing (520) and / or the second dummy frame (522). In one embodiment, the outer frame (631b) may be positioned to substantially surround the inner frame (631a). For example, the outer frame (631b) may be understood as a covering of the inner frame (631a). In one embodiment, when the protective frame (631) is placed on the third housing (530), the inner frame (631a) and the outer frame (631b) may be positioned to contact the third housing (530). For example, in the area of ​​the protective frame (631) that directly contacts the third housing (530), the inner frame (631a) may be partially exposed to the outside space.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the inner frame (631a) has a higher elastic modulus than the outer frame (631b), thereby facilitating the handling of the protective frame (631) during the assembly process of the electronic device (500). In one embodiment, the outer frame (631b) is a part that comes into direct contact with another structure (e.g., the second housing (520) or the second dummy frame (522)), and is made of an elastic material such as silicone or urethane to mitigate noise or shock during folding. In one embodiment, the inner frame (631a) functions as a structure that stably places or fixes the protective frame (631) to the third housing (530), and the outer frame (631b), made of an elastic material, can substantially conceal the inner frame (631a). In one embodiment, the inner frame (631a) may provide a protruding structure corresponding to the protruding area (531a) of FIG. 10. The protective frame (631) of FIG. 17 may be partially combined with the protective frame (531) of the prior embodiment or may replace the protective frame (531) of the prior embodiment.

[0148] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing the arrangement of a protective frame (731) (e.g., protective frame (531) of FIG. 8) of an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0149] Referring to FIG. 18, the electronic device (500) may further include at least one support groove disposed on either the surface of the protective frame (731) and the surface of the second housing (520) (e.g., the second dummy frame (522)), and / or at least one support projection (522a) disposed on the other of the surface of the protective frame (731) and the surface of the second housing (e.g., the second dummy frame). Note that in the illustrated embodiment, the at least one support projection (522a) is engaged with at least one support groove when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, and the at least one support groove is not given a reference number. For example, when the electronic device (500) is in a folded state, a portion of the side of the second housing (520) may contact the protective frame (531) (e.g., the protruding area (531a) in FIG. 10), and at least one support projection (522a) may be engaged with at least one support groove. The structure of such support projections (522a) and / or support grooves may be useful for suppressing displacement of the second housing (520) relative to the first housing (510) (or third housing (530)) even when an external impact is applied. The protective frame (731) of FIG. 18 may be partially combined with the protective frame (531, 631) of the prior embodiment, or may replace the protective frame (531, 631) of the prior embodiment.

[0150] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining the binding structure of a protective frame (831a) (e.g., protective frame (531) of FIG. 8) of an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 20 is a drawing showing the protective frame (831a) of an electronic device (500) bound according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the electronic device (500) may further include at least one binding projection (833a) protruding from the edge of the third housing (530). For example, a protective frame (831a) may be more stably positioned or fixed to the third housing (530) by engaging with at least one binding projection (833a). In one embodiment, the third housing (530) may be made of a substantially electrically conductive material, but may partially include an electrically insulating material. The electrically insulating portion (833) of the third housing (530) may mechanically connect the electrically conductive portions while electrically insulating them. In one embodiment, at least one binding projection (833a) may be part of the portion made of the electrically insulating material. However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and when the third housing (530) includes electrically conductive parts (s) and electrically insulating parts (833)(s), the material or position of at least one binding projection (833a) can be appropriately selected according to the specifications of the electronic device (500) to be actually manufactured.

[0152] According to one embodiment, at least one binding projection (833a) may be substantially concealed when the protective frame (831a) is positioned. In the illustrated embodiment, a structure may be illustrated in which a portion of the surface of at least one binding projection (833a) is visually exposed to the outside of the protective frame (831a). When visually exposed to the outside, a portion of the surface of at least one binding projection (833a) may be aligned to form a continuous plane or a continuous curved surface with the surface of the protective frame (831a).

[0153] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing a protective frame (831b) (e.g., protective frame (531) of FIG. 8) of an electronic device (500) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 21, the protective frame (831b) may include discontinuous sections (NC)(s). For example, while the protective frames (531, 631, 731, 831a) of the prior embodiments are polygonal shapes of closed curves or closed loop trajectories, the protective frame (831b) of FIG. 21 may be a structure in which a plurality of pieces (SG1, SG2, SG3, SG4) are arranged along a loop trajectory. In one embodiment, at least one binding projection (833a) of FIG. 19 and / or FIG. 20 may have a shape corresponding to the discontinuous section (NC) of FIG. 21. For example, at least one binding projection (833a) of FIG. 19 and / or FIG. 20 may be combined with the protective frame (831b) of FIG. 21 to form a part of the third housing (530). In one embodiment, the number and location and / or shape of the discontinuous sections (NC)(s) can be appropriately selected according to the specifications of the electronic device (500) to be actually manufactured.

[0155] As described above, the embodiments of the present disclosure can suppress relative displacement between different structures (e.g., the display (502) and the third housing (530) of FIG. 8, or the second housing (520) and the third housing (530) of FIG. 15) in a folded or unfolded state of an electronic device (e.g., FIG. 1 to 8, and / or FIG. 15). In one embodiment, by suppressing relative displacement between different structures, secondary impact between different structures can be suppressed when an external impact is applied. For example, damage to the display caused by an external impact can be suppressed when the electronic device is in a folded state.

[0156] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description of the above-described embodiment(s).

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101, 200, 400, 500) of FIG. 1 to 8 and / or FIG. 15) may comprise a first housing (e.g., the first housing (510) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (520) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15)) rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward one side of the first housing, a third housing (e.g., the third housing (530) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward the other side of the first housing, and a contact / support structure (e.g., the protective frame (531) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) disposed on the third housing. In one embodiment, the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, so that when the electronic device is in a folded state, the contact / support structure positioned in the third housing can be configured to contact / support a part of the second housing.

[0158] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state, the contact / support structure may be configured to suppress linear movement between the third housing and the second housing in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis of the electronic device by contacting / supporting a part of the second housing.

[0159] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101, 200, 400, 500) of FIG. 1 to 8 and / or FIG. 15) comprises: a first housing (e.g., the first housing (510) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15); a second housing (e.g., the second housing (520) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward one side of the first housing; a third housing (e.g., the third housing (530) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward the other side of the first housing; and a first surface of the third housing (e.g., the first surface of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3) that is aligned to orient toward the first housing while the third housing is positioned facing the first housing. Among the surface (F31)) and the second surface of the third housing facing the opposite direction of the first surface of the third housing (e.g., the second surface (F32) of FIG. 2 or FIG. 3), a protective frame (e.g., the protective frame (531) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) disposed on the second surface of the third housing may be included. In one embodiment, the second housing may be positioned so as to face the first housing or the second surface of the third housing with the third housing in between, at a position where the first surface of the third housing faces the first housing. In one embodiment, when the third housing is disposed between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the side of the second housing (e.g., the dummy frame (522) of the second housing (520)) that contacts at least a portion of the edge of the area of ​​the surface of the second housing facing the second surface of the third housing may be configured to contact the protective frame.

[0160] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101, 200, 400, 500) of FIG. 1 to 8 and / or FIG. 15) comprises: a first housing (e.g., the first housing (510) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15); a second housing (e.g., the second housing (520) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward one side of the first housing; a third housing (e.g., the third housing (530) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing and disposed between the first housing and the second housing and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position extended toward the other side of the first housing; and a protective frame (e.g., the protective frame (531) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) disposed on one side of the third housing. It may include. In one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the side of the second housing (e.g., the dummy frame (522) of the second housing (520)) may be configured to contact the protective frame.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the electronic device described above may further include a first hinge (e.g., the first hinge (570) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing. In one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, a part of the second housing (e.g., a dummy frame (522) of the second housing (520)) may be configured to be positioned between the protective frame (or the contact / support structure) and the first hinge.

[0162] According to one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the second housing may be configured to be positioned between two different portions of the protective frame (or the contact / support structure).

[0163] According to one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, the protective frame (or the contact / support structure) may be configured to contact the first side (e.g., the first side (S1) of FIG. 8), the second side (e.g., the second side (S2) of FIG. 8), and the third side (e.g., the third side (S3) of FIG. 8) of the second housing. In one embodiment, the second side and the third side may each extend in a direction intersecting the first side.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the second side and the third side may be substantially parallel to each other and extend substantially perpendicularly to the first side.

[0165] According to one embodiment, the electronic device described above may further include a second hinge (e.g., the second hinge (580) of FIG. 8) that rotatably connects the first housing and the third housing. In one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the protective frame (or the contact / support structure) may be configured to be positioned between the second hinge and the second housing.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the protective frame (or the contact / support structure) may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the third housing.

[0167] According to one embodiment, the electronic device described above may further include at least one binding projection protruding from the edge of the third housing (e.g., the binding projection (833a) of FIG. 19). In one embodiment, the protective frame (or the contact / support structure) may be secured to the third housing by engaging with the at least one binding projection.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the at least one binding projection may include an electrically insulating material.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the protective frame (or the contact / support structure) may include an inner frame having a first elastic modulus (e.g., the inner frame (631a) of FIG. 17) and an outer frame having a second elastic modulus lower than the first elastic modulus (e.g., the outer frame (631b) of FIG. 17). In one embodiment, the outer frame may be configured to contact the second housing.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the outer frame may be arranged to surround the inner frame.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the electronic device described above may further include at least one support groove disposed on either the surface of the protective frame (or the contact / support structure) or the surface of the second housing, and at least one support projection disposed on the other of the surface of the protective frame (or the contact / support structure) or the surface of the second housing (e.g., the support projection (522a) of FIG. 18). According to one embodiment, when a portion of the side of the second housing contacts the protective frame (or the contact / support structure), the at least one support projection may be configured to engage with the at least one support groove.

[0172] According to one embodiment, the second housing may include a dummy frame (e.g., the second dummy frame (522) of FIG. 15) disposed on at least a portion of the edge of one side. In one embodiment, when the third housing is disposed between the first housing and the second housing, at least a portion of the dummy frame may be configured to contact the protective frame (or the contact / support structure).

[0173] According to one embodiment, the electronic device described above may further include a display (e.g., the display (502) of FIG. 8). In one embodiment, the display may be a flexible display comprising a first display area (e.g., the first display area (502a) of FIG. 8) disposed corresponding to the first housing, a second display area (e.g., the second display area (502b) of FIG. 8) disposed corresponding to the second housing, and a third display area (e.g., the third display area (502c) of FIG. 8) disposed corresponding to the third housing. In one embodiment, when the third housing is disposed between the first housing and the second housing, the second display area may be configured to be disposed facing the third housing.

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101, 200, 400, 500) of FIG. 1 to 8 and / or FIG. 15) comprises a first housing (e.g., the first housing (510) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15), a first hinge (e.g., the first hinge (570) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15), a second housing (e.g., the second housing (520) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15) rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing by the first hinge and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing and a position unfolded toward one side of the first housing, a second hinge (e.g., the second hinge (580) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15), a second housing rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing by the second hinge and disposed between the first housing and the second housing, wherein the first housing is positioned between a position facing the first housing and the first housing It may include a third housing configured to rotate between positions extended to the other side (e.g., the third housing (530) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15), and a protective frame (or contact / support structure) disposed on one side of the third housing (e.g., the protective frame (531) of FIG. 8 or FIG. 15). In one embodiment, when the third housing is disposed between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the second housing may be configured to be disposed between the protective frame and the first hinge.

[0175] According to one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, a portion of the second housing may be configured to be positioned between two different portions of the protective frame.

[0176] According to one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, the protective frame may be configured to contact the first side (e.g., the first side (S1) of FIG. 8), the second side (e.g., the second side (S2) of FIG. 8), and the third side (e.g., the third side (S3) of FIG. 8) of the second housing. In one embodiment, the second side and the third side may each extend in a direction intersecting the first side.

[0177] According to one embodiment, the second side and the third side may be parallel to each other and extend perpendicularly to the first side.

[0178] According to one embodiment, when the third housing is positioned between the first housing and the second housing, a part of the protective frame may be configured to be positioned between the second hinge and the second housing.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the electronic device described above may further include at least one binding projection protruding from the edge of the third housing (e.g., the binding projection (833a) of FIG. 19). In one embodiment, the protective frame may be secured to the third housing by engaging with the at least one binding projection.

[0180] Although the present disclosure has been described by way of example with respect to one embodiment, it should be understood that the embodiment is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detailed configuration may be made without departing from the whole context of the present disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500), First housing (210; 510); A second housing (220; 520) rotatably coupled to one side of the first housing (210; 510) and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing (210; 510) and a position extended toward one side of the first housing (210; 510); A third housing (230; 530) rotatably coupled to the other side of the first housing (210; 510) and configured to rotate between a position facing the first housing (210; 510) and a position extended toward the other side of the first housing (210; 510); and It includes a contact / support structure (abutment structure) (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) disposed in the third housing (230; 530), and An electronic device in which the third housing (230; 530) is disposed between the first housing (210; 510) and the second housing (220; 520), and when the electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) is in a folded state, the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) disposed in the third housing (230; 530) is configured to contact / support a part of the second housing (220; 520).

2. An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein when the electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500) is in a folded state, the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) contacts / supports a part of the second housing (220; 520) so as to suppress linear movement between the third housing (230; 530) and the second housing (220; 520) in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis of the electronic device (101; 200; 400; 500).

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 2, It further includes a first hinge (270; 570) that rotatably connects the first housing (210; 510) and the second housing (220; 520), and An electronic device configured such that when the third housing (230; 530) is positioned between the first housing (210; 510) and the second housing (220; 520), a portion of the second housing (220; 520) is positioned between the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) and the first hinge (270; 570).

4. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the third housing (230; 530) is disposed between the first housing (210; 510) and the second housing (220; 520), a portion of the second housing (220; 520) is disposed between two different portions of the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b).

5. In any one of claims 1 to 4, when the third housing (230; 530) is disposed between the first housing (210; 510) and the second housing (220; 520), the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) is configured to contact the first side (S1), the second side (S2), and the third side (S3) of the second housing (220; 520). The second side (S2) and the third side (S3) are each parallel to each other and extend in a direction intersecting the first side (S1) to form an electronic device.

6. In claim 5, the second side and the third side are parallel to each other and extend perpendicularly to the first side, forming an electronic device.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, It further includes a second hinge (280; 580) that rotatably connects the first housing (210; 510) and the third housing (230; 530), and An electronic device configured such that when the third housing (230; 530) is positioned between the first housing (210; 510) and the second housing (220; 520), a part of the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) is positioned between the second hinge (280; 580) and the second housing (220; 520).

8. In any one of claims 1 to 7, the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) is an electronic device extending along at least a portion of the edge of the third housing (230; 530).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 8, It further includes at least one binding projection (833a) protruding from the edge of the third housing (230; 530), and An electronic device in which the above contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) is engaged with the at least one binding projection (833a) and fixed to the third housing (230; 530).

10. In claim 9, the electronic device wherein at least one binding projection (833a) comprises an electrically insulating material.

11. In any one of claims 1 to 10, the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) comprises an inner frame (631a) having a first elastic modulus and an outer frame (631b) having a second elastic modulus lower than the first elastic modulus, and An electronic device configured such that the outer frame (631b) contacts the second housing (220; 520).

12. In claim 11, the outer frame (631b) is an electronic device arranged to surround the inner frame (631a).

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 12, At least one support groove disposed on the surface of the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) or on the surface of the second housing (220; 520); and It further includes at least one support projection (522a) disposed on the surface of the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b) or on the other surface of the second housing (220; 520), and An electronic device configured such that when a part of the side (S1, S2, S3) of the second housing (220; 520) contacts the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b), the at least one support projection (522a) engages with the at least one support groove.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 13, The second housing (220; 520) includes a dummy frame (522) disposed on at least a portion of the edge of one side, and An electronic device configured such that when the third housing (230; 530) is positioned between the first housing (210; 510) and the second housing (220; 520), at least a portion of the dummy frame (522) contacts the contact / support structure (531; 631; 731; 831a; 831b).

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 14, The display (502) further includes a first display area (502a) disposed corresponding to the first housing (210; 510), a second display area (502b) disposed corresponding to the second housing (220; 520), and a third display area (502c) disposed corresponding to the third housing (230; 530). An electronic device configured such that when the third housing (230; 530) is positioned between the first housing (210; 510) and the second housing (220; 520), the second display area (502b) is positioned facing the third housing (230; 530).

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