Foldable electronic device comprising cover member

Abstract

A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment may comprise a first housing, a second housing, a hinge assembly, a support plate, a flexible display, and a cover member. The cover member can include a plurality of recesses formed to extend from a first side surface of the cover member to a second side surface opposite to the first side surface. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the support plate, respective openings of the support plate can be disposed to overlap at least one from among the plurality of recesses.

Description

Foldable electronic device including a cover member

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a foldable electronic device comprising a cover member, and more specifically, to a foldable electronic device comprising a cover member that covers a portion of a support plate supporting a flexible display.

[0002] As technology advances, foldable electronic devices that can be unfolded or folded have been developed, and these foldable electronic devices may include flexible displays that can be bent. Accordingly, support structures have been developed to prevent damage or deformation while the flexible display is being bent.

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

[0004] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a support plate disposed within the first housing and the second housing and positioned across the hinge assembly. The support plate may include a first support portion, a second support portion, and a central support portion located between the first support portion and the second support portion. The central support portion may include a plurality of openings formed to penetrate the central support portion. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display supported by the support plate. The foldable electronic device may include a cover member disposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate and positioned to cover at least partially the central support portion. The cover member may include a plurality of recesses formed to extend from a first side of the cover member to a second side opposite to the first side. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support plate, each of the plurality of openings may be arranged to overlap with at least one of the plurality of recesses.

[0005] A foldable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a support plate disposed within the first housing and the second housing and positioned across the hinge assembly. The support plate may include a first support portion, a second support portion, and a central support portion located between the first support portion and the second support portion. The central support portion may include a plurality of openings formed to penetrate the central support portion. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display supported by the support plate. The foldable electronic device may include a cushioning member disposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate and positioned to at least partially cover the central support portion. The foldable electronic device may include an adhesive member disposed between the cushioning member and the support plate and positioned to cover the plurality of openings. A plurality of recesses can be formed on the buffer member by the adhesive member.

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

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

[0008] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a front view of a support plate including a plurality of openings according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display, a support plate, and a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a support plate and a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a cover member including a plurality of recesses according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a cushioning member and a second adhesive member of a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a cover member disposed on a support plate according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating the combination of a support plate and a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an example of a plurality of recesses formed in a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating an example of a plurality of recesses formed in a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a cover member including a third adhesive member according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating an example of a plurality of recesses formed by a third adhesive member and a support plate according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating an example of a plurality of recesses formed by a third adhesive member and a support plate according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to one embodiment.

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

[0023] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a rear plan view of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0025] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (210) (e.g., a first housing structure) comprising a first side member (213) (e.g., a side bezel) and a second housing (220) (e.g., a second housing structure) comprising a second side member (223) (e.g., a side bezel), which are foldably joined to each other with respect to a folding axis (F) through at least one hinge device (240, 240-1) (e.g., a hinge module or a hinge structure) with respect to a folding axis (F). For example, the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) may be configured as a foldable housing (e.g., a housing structure). For example, the electronic device (200) may include a first display (230) (e.g., a flexible display, a foldable display, or a main display) positioned to be supported by the first housing (210) and the second housing (220). For example, the first housing (210) may include a first surface (211) and a second surface (212) facing in the opposite direction of the first surface (211) (e.g., in the -z axis direction). For example, the second housing (220) may include a third surface (221) and a fourth surface (222) facing in the opposite direction of the third surface (221) (e.g., in the -z axis direction). For example, the first housing (210) may include a first rear cover (214) coupled with a first side member (213). For example, the second housing (220) may include a second rear cover (224) coupled with a second side member (223). For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a fully unfolded first state (e.g., unfolded state or unfolded state), the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) may be operated so that they face substantially the same direction (e.g., z-axis direction). For example, when the electronic device (200) is in a fully folded second state (e.g., folded state or folded state), the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) may be operated so that they face each other or face opposite directions.For example, the electronic device (200) may be operated to maintain a third state (e.g., an intermediate state) between the first state and the second state.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first receiver (201) disposed on a first surface (211) of a first housing (210), at least one first sensor module (204) (e.g., an ambient light sensor) and / or at least one first camera module (205) (e.g., a UDC, under display camera). For example, the electronic device (200) may include at least one key (206) disposed on a first side member (213). For example, the electronic device (200) may include at least one second camera module (208) and / or a flash (209) disposed on a second surface (212) of the first housing (210) (e.g., a first rear cover (214)). For example, the electronic device (200) may include a second display (231) disposed on the fourth side (222) of the second housing (220), at least one third camera module (225) (e.g., UDC, under display camera), at least one second sensor module (226) and / or a second receiver (227). For example, the second display (231) may be disposed so as to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover (224). For example, the electronic device (200) may include a speaker (202) disposed on the second side member (223), a microphone (203) disposed on the first side member (213), and / or a connector port (207). At least some of the aforementioned components may be repositioned in the first housing (210) and / or the second housing (220).

[0027] According to one embodiment, the first display (230) (e.g., flexible display) may include a first region (230a) (e.g., first planar portion) corresponding to at least a portion of the first surface (211), a second region (230b) (e.g., second planar portion) corresponding to at least a portion of the third surface (221), and a third region (230c) (e.g., flexible portion) connecting the first region (230a) and the second region (230b), to which the electronic device (200) is deformed in a second state (e.g., folding state) and / or a third state. For example, the third region (230c) may be positioned to overlap at least partially with at least one hinge device (240, 240-1) when the first display (230) is viewed from above (e.g., in the z-axis direction). For example, the first display (230) may be positioned so as not to be seen from the outside in the second state, with the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) facing each other (e.g., inward-fold type). For example, the first display (230) may be positioned so as to be seen from the outside in the second state, with the first surface (211) and the third surface (221) facing in opposite directions (e.g., outward-fold type).

[0028] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device (300) may include a first housing (310), a second housing (320), a hinge assembly (330), a flexible display (340), a support plate (350), a cover member (360), a first rear cover (370), and a second rear cover (380). For example, the foldable electronic device (300) may correspond to the electronic device (200) of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the first housing (310) may correspond to the first housing (210) of FIGS. 1 and 2, and the second housing (320) may correspond to the second housing (220) of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the hinge assembly (330) may correspond to the hinge device (240) of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the flexible display (340) may correspond to the first display (230) of FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the first rear cover (370) and the second rear cover (380) may correspond to the first rear cover (214) and the second rear cover (224) of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a hinge assembly (330) can rotatably connect a first housing (310) and a second housing (320). For example, the first housing (310) may be connected to one side of the hinge assembly (330), and the second housing (320) may be connected to the other side opposite to the one side of the hinge assembly (330). According to one embodiment, as the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) are rotated by the hinge assembly (330), the foldable electronic device (300) may be folded or unfolded. For example, when the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the first housing (310), the second housing (320), and the hinge assembly (330) may be arranged side by side with each other. For example, when the foldable electronic device (300) is unfolded, the first housing (310) may be positioned to form a substantially 180-degree angle with the second housing (320). For example, when the foldable electronic device (300) is folded, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may be positioned substantially perpendicular to the hinge assembly (330).

[0031] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may move closer to each other. For example, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may be positioned to face each other. According to one embodiment, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a folded state to an unfolded state, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may move further apart from each other.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexible display (340) may be at least partially disposed within the first housing (310) and the second housing (320). For example, the flexible display (340) may be at least partially disposed within the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) across the hinge assembly (330). According to one embodiment, as the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded, the flexible display (340) may be folded or unfolded.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexible display (340) may include a first flat portion (341), a second flat portion (342), and a folding portion (343). For example, the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) may be a portion that is folded or unfolded while the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded. For example, the first flat portion (341) and the second flat portion (342) of the flexible display (340) may be portions that extend from the folding portion (343) and are not folded or unfolded while the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, for example, a first flat portion (341) of a flexible display (340) may be at least partially disposed within a first housing (310). For example, a second flat portion (342) may be at least partially disposed within a second housing (320). For example, the first flat portion (341) may be a portion extending from one side of a folding portion (343). For example, the second flat portion (342) may be a portion extending from the other side opposite to one side of the folding portion (343). For example, the folding portion (343) may be a portion located between the first flat portion (341) and the second flat portion (342).

[0035] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) may be positioned to face the hinge assembly (330). For example, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the flexible display (340) (e.g., the -z-axis direction), the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) may overlap at least partially with the hinge assembly (330).

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, as the folding state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes, the distance between the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) and the hinge assembly (330) may change. For example, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) may be moved in a direction closer to the hinge assembly (330). For example, as the state of the foldable electronic device (300) changes from a folded state to an unfolded state, the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) may be moved in a direction further away from the hinge assembly (330).

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a support plate (350) may be positioned between a flexible display (340) and a hinge assembly (330). For example, the support plate (350) may be positioned to correspond to the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, the support plate (350) may support the flexible display (340). For example, in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device (300), the support plate (350) may support the flexible display (340) so that the flexible display (340) does not sag in the direction toward the hinge assembly (330). According to one embodiment, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the support plate (350) may be folded together with the flexible display (340). For example, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the support plate (350) can be folded together with the flexible display (340) so that the flexible display (340) is not interfered with by the support plate (350).

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a support plate (350) (e.g., a support member) may include a first support portion (351), a second support portion (352), and a central support portion (353). For example, the first support portion (351) may be a portion corresponding to a first flat portion (341) of a flexible display (340). For example, the second support portion (352) may be a portion corresponding to a second flat portion (342) of a flexible display (340). For example, the central support portion (353) may be a portion corresponding to a folding portion (343) of a flexible display (340).

[0039] For example, the first support portion (351) and the second support portion (352) may be parts that do not bend while the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded. For example, the central support portion (353) may be a part that bends while the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded. According to one embodiment, the first support portion (351) and the second support portion (352) may be parts that extend from the central support portion (353). For example, the central support portion (353) may be a part located between the first support portion (351) and the second support portion (352). However, not limited thereto, the boundaries or areas of the first support portion (351), the second support portion (352), and the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350) may be changed and set.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first support portion (351) may be a portion that supports the first flat portion (341) of the flexible display (340). For example, the first support portion (351) may be formed at a position corresponding to the first flat portion (341) of the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, the second support portion (352) may be a portion that supports the second flat portion (342) of the flexible display (340). For example, the second support portion (352) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second flat portion (342) of the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, the central support portion (353) may be a portion that supports the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340). For example, the central support portion (353) can be formed at a position corresponding to the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340).

[0041] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in an unfolded state of a foldable electronic device (300), a first support portion (351) of a support plate (350) supports a first flat portion (341) of a flexible display (340), a second support portion (352) of a support plate (350) supports a second flat portion (342) of a flexible display (340), and a central support portion (353) of a support plate (350) supports a folding portion (343) of a flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the first support portion (351) of the support plate (350) supports the first flat portion (341) of the flexible display (340), the second support portion (352) of the support plate (350) supports the second flat portion (342) of the flexible display (340), and the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350) can be folded together with the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340).

[0042] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the central support portion (353) may be formed wider than the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340). However, not limited thereto, the areas of the first support portion (351), the second support portion (352), and the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350) may be set in various ways.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover member (360) may be disposed between a flexible display (340) and a support plate (350). For example, the cover member (360) may be disposed on a central support portion (353) of the support plate (350). For example, the cover member (360) may be disposed at a position corresponding to the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350). For example, the cover member (360) may be formed to a size sufficient to cover the central support portion (353). However, it is not limited thereto, and the area of ​​the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350) and the area of ​​the cover member (360) may be changed.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded, the cover member (360) can protect the folding portion (343) so that the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350) is not interfered with by the hinge assembly (330). According to one embodiment, the cover member (360) may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the support plate (350) to prevent or reduce the ingress of foreign matter into the interior of the support plate (350). According to one embodiment, the arrangement and combination of the cover member (360) and the support plate (350) will be described in detail in FIGS. 5 and 6, which will be described later.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first rear cover (370) can protect the exterior of a first housing (310). For example, the first rear cover (370) can be placed on a side opposite to the flexible display (340) of the first housing (310). According to one embodiment, a second rear cover (380) can protect the exterior of a second housing (320). For example, the second rear cover (380) can be placed on a side opposite to the flexible display (340) of the second housing (320).

[0046] FIG. 4 is a front view of a support plate including a plurality of openings according to one embodiment.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the support plate (350) may include a plurality of openings (400). For example, the plurality of openings (400) of the support plate (350) may relieve or distribute the stress applied to the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) by the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350) while the foldable electronic device (300) is being folded. For example, the plurality of openings (400) of the support plate (350) may allow the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350) to be easily bent. For example, the plurality of openings (400) of the support plate (350) may improve the durability of the support plate (350) by preventing cracks from occurring in the support plate (350) even with repeated folding.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of openings (400) may be formed in the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350). For example, the plurality of openings (400) may be formed to penetrate the central support portion (353). For example, the plurality of openings (400) may be formed in the portion of the central support portion (353) corresponding to the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, the plurality of openings (400) may be arranged in a grid shape. For example, the plurality of openings (400) may be arranged to have columns and rows. For example, each of the plurality of openings (400) may be spaced apart from one another.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of openings (400) may be formed to have a predetermined length. For example, the plurality of openings (400) may be formed to have a length in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the hinge assembly (330) (e.g., y-axis direction). According to one embodiment, the plurality of openings (400) may be arranged so as to overlap at least partially when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the side of the support plate (350). For example, the plurality of openings (400) may be arranged regularly so as to overlap at least partially when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the plurality of openings (400).

[0050] Referring to FIG. 4, for example, among the plurality of openings (400), the first openings (410) and the second openings (420) may be arranged alternately with each other. For example, the second openings (420) may be arranged between the first openings (410). For example, the first openings (410) may be arranged between the second openings (420). For example, when viewed from the side of the support plate (350), the first openings (410) and the second openings (420) may be arranged to overlap at least partially with each other. However, the length, spacing, and / or arrangement order of each of the plurality of openings (400) may not be limited thereto.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a flexible display, a support plate, and a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a flexible display (340) may be placed on a support plate (350). For example, the flexible display (340) may be formed by stacking a plurality of components. However, the flexible display (340) may be formed by omitting some components or adding other components, and is not limited to the components shown in FIG. 5.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a flexible display (340) may include a first protective layer (510), a first adhesive layer (520), glass (530), a second adhesive layer (540), a panel (550), a film (560), a third adhesive layer (570), and a second protective layer (580). For example, the first protective layer (510) may form an upper surface facing the +z-axis direction of the flexible display (340). For example, the second protective layer (580) may form a back surface facing the -z-axis direction of the flexible display (340).

[0054] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first protective layer (510) and the second protective layer (580) can protect the flexible display (340) from external impact. For example, the first protective layer (510) and the second protective layer (580) can prevent scratches from occurring on the flexible display (340) or prevent foreign substances from entering the interior of the flexible display (340) from the outside.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the glass (530) may be disposed on the back surface of the first protective layer (510). For example, the glass (530) may be attached to the back surface of the first protective layer (510) by the first adhesive layer (520). According to one embodiment, the glass (530) enables the flexible display (340) to easily receive touch input from a user and can improve the image quality of the flexible display (340). According to one embodiment, the glass (530) may be formed of a flexible and thin material so that the flexible display (340) can be folded or unfolded.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the panel (550) may be attached to the back surface of the glass (530) by a second adhesive layer (540). According to one embodiment, the panel (550) may receive touch input from a user or display a screen to a user. For example, the panel (550) may be formed of a rigid material for the durability of the flexible display (340).

[0057] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the film (560) is disposed on the back surface of the panel (550) to maintain the structural stability of the panel (550) or to protect the panel (550) from the outside. According to one embodiment, the second protective layer (580) can be attached to the back surface of the film (560) by means of a third adhesive layer (570).

[0058] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a flexible display (340) may be attached to a support plate (350). For example, the flexible display (340) may be attached to the support plate (350) by a first adhesive member (600). For example, one side of the first adhesive member (600) facing the +z-axis direction may be attached to the flexible display, and the other side facing the -z-axis direction may be attached to the support plate (350). For example, one side of the first adhesive member (600) may be attached to cover a first flat portion (341), a second flat portion (342), and a folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340). For example, the other side of the first adhesive member (600) may be attached to cover a first support portion (351), a second support portion (352), and a central support portion (353) of the support plate (350).

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a first adhesive member (600) is attached to a support plate (350) to cover a plurality of openings (400) formed in a central support portion (353), so that while the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded, the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) may not be interfered with by the plurality of openings (400) of the support plate (350). For example, by attaching the first adhesive member (600) to a support plate (350) to cover a plurality of openings (400) formed in a central support portion (353), the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) may not come into contact with the corners of the plurality of openings (400) while the foldable electronic device (300) is folded or unfolded. For example, the first adhesive member (600) can be used as a cushioning member between the folding portion (343) of the flexible display (340) and the support plate (350), thereby improving the durability of the flexible display (340).

[0060] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover member (360) may be positioned to cover at least partially the support plate (350) to prevent or reduce the inflow of foreign matter into the interior of the support plate (350). For example, to prevent or reduce the inflow of foreign matter into the interior of the plurality of openings (400) of the support plate (350) to which the first adhesive member (600) is attached, the cover member (360) may be positioned to cover at least partially the side opposite to the side facing the flexible display (340) of the support plate (350) (e.g., the side facing the -z-axis direction). According to one embodiment, the cover member (360) may mitigate external shocks received by the support plate (350). According to one embodiment, by positioning the first adhesive member (600) and the cover member (360) to cover the plurality of openings (400), air may be trapped inside the plurality of openings (400). Accordingly, a structure for discharging air trapped inside a plurality of openings (400) may be formed in the cover member (360), and a description thereof will be provided in detail in FIGS. 7 and 8, which will be described later.

[0061] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a support plate and a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover member (360) may be positioned to cover at least partially the back surface of the support plate (350) facing the -z-axis direction. For example, the cover member (360) may be positioned to cover at least partially the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350). For example, the cover member (360) may be positioned to cover a plurality of openings (400) formed in the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350). For example, a first adhesive member (600) may be positioned to cover the outer surface of a plurality of openings (400) formed on one surface facing the +z-axis of the support plate (350), and the cover member (360) may be positioned to cover the outer surface of a plurality of openings (400) formed on the other surface facing the -z-axis direction of the support plate (350).

[0063] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a cover member including a plurality of recesses according to one embodiment.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover member (360) may include a plurality of recesses (700). For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed on one surface of the cover member (360). For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed on the surface of the cover member (360) that contacts the support plate (350). For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed on the surface of the cover member (360) that faces the plurality of openings (400) of the support plate (350).

[0065] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of recesses (700) may be formed spaced apart from each other on one surface of the cover member (360). For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be arranged at a predetermined interval. For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be arranged along a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the hinge assembly (330) (e.g., the y-axis direction). According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed to extend between at least two sides of the cover member (360). For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed to extend from a first side facing the -x-axis direction of the cover member (360) to a second side facing the +x-axis direction. According to one embodiment, the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed to be open through at least two sides of the cover member (360). For example, a plurality of recesses (700) may be formed to open from a first side to a second side of the cover member (360). According to one embodiment, air inside the plurality of openings (400) may be discharged to the outside of the foldable electronic device (300) through the plurality of recesses (700) of the cover member (360).

[0066] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of recesses (700) may be referred to as a plurality of segments.

[0067] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a cushioning member and an adhesive member of a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover member (360) may include a cushioning member (810) and a second adhesive member (820). For example, the cushioning member (810) of the cover member (360) may protect the support plate (350) from external impact. For example, the second adhesive member (820) may attach the cover member (360) and the support plate (350).

[0069] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cushioning member (810) forms one side of the cover member (360), and the second adhesive member (820) may form at least a part of the other side opposite to the one side of the cover member (360). For example, the cushioning member (810) may cushion the impact on the hinge assembly (330) while the cover member (360) is attached to the support plate (350). For example, the second adhesive member (820) may overlap at least partially with the plurality of openings (400) so that the cover member (360) can cover the plurality of openings (400) of the support plate (350).

[0070] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second adhesive member (820) may include a plurality of recesses (700) (e.g., a plurality of segments). For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed by the second adhesive member (820). According to one embodiment, a space may be formed between the cushioning member (810) and the plurality of openings (400) by attaching the cover member (360) to the support plate (350) by the second adhesive member (820) including the plurality of recesses (700). For example, air inside the plurality of openings (400) may be discharged to the outside of the foldable electronic device (300) through the plurality of recesses (700) between the cushioning member (810) and the plurality of openings (400). For example, the plurality of openings (400) and the plurality of recesses (700) may form a ventilation path through which air can move.

[0071] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover member (360) may include a plurality of segmented portions. For example, the plurality of segmented portions may be formed by a second adhesive member (820). For example, the plurality of segmented portions may be parts segmented by the second adhesive member (820) that is attached to one side facing the support plate (350) of the cushioning member (810). For example, the plurality of segmented portions may be parts of one side facing the support plate (350) of the cushioning member (810) where the second adhesive member (820) is not attached. For example, the plurality of segmented portions may be parts of one side facing the support plate (350) of the cushioning member (810) where the second adhesive member (820) is not formed.

[0072] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a cover member disposed on a support plate according to one embodiment.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover member (360) may be attached to a support plate (350) such that a plurality of recesses (700) overlap at least partially with a plurality of openings (400). According to one embodiment, the cover member (360) may be attached to the support plate (350) such that each of the plurality of openings (400) overlaps with at least one of the plurality of recesses (700). For example, the cover member (360) may be attached to the support plate (350) such that when viewed from a direction perpendicular to one surface of the support plate (350) (e.g., z-axis direction), each of the plurality of openings (400) overlaps with at least one of the plurality of recesses (700). For example, the cover member (360) may be attached to the support plate (350) such that each of the plurality of recesses (700) crosses at least one of the plurality of openings (400).

[0074] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating the combination of a support plate and a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of recesses (700) may be formed to penetrate the sides of the cover member (360). For example, a plurality of recesses (700) may be formed to penetrate the first side (910) and the second side (920) of the cover member (360). For example, a plurality of recesses (700) may extend to open from the first side (910) of the cover member (360) to the second side (920). For example, the first side (910) may be a side formed parallel to the axis of rotation of the hinge assembly (330) among the plurality of sides of the cover member (360). For example, the second side (920) may be a side opposite to the first side (910).

[0076] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, air inside a plurality of openings (400) can be discharged along a plurality of recesses (700) of the cover member (360) through a first side (910) and / or a second side (920) of the cover member (360). For example, as air inside the plurality of openings (400) is discharged through the first side (910) and / or the second side (920), bubbles may not form in the first adhesive member (600).

[0077] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of openings (400) may be formed to have a predetermined length (d1). For example, the plurality of openings (400) may be formed to have a predetermined length (d1) in a direction parallel to the first side (910) and the second side (920) of the cover member (360). For example, the plurality of openings (400) may be formed spaced apart from each other. For example, the spacing between the plurality of openings (400) may be smaller than the predetermined length (d1) of the plurality of openings (400).

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of openings (400) may be arranged to overlap with at least one of the plurality of recesses (700). For example, the spacing (d2) between the plurality of recesses (700) may be smaller than a predetermined length (d1) of the plurality of openings (400). For example, by forming the spacing (d2) between the plurality of recesses (700) to be smaller than the predetermined length (d1) of the plurality of openings (400), there may not be any opening arranged to be unconnected to the plurality of recesses (700). However, this is not limited thereto, and the predetermined length (d1) of the plurality of openings (400) and the spacing (d2) between the plurality of recesses (700) may be changed to the extent that each of the plurality of openings (400) overlaps with at least one of the plurality of recesses (700).

[0079] FIGS. 11 and 12 are drawings illustrating an example of a plurality of recesses formed in a cover member according to one embodiment.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 11, according to one embodiment, some of the plurality of recesses (700) may be arranged adjacent to each other, and other parts of the plurality of recesses (700) may be arranged relatively far apart. For example, if an opening is formed between two of the plurality of recesses (700) that does not overlap with any of the plurality of recesses (700), a recess may be formed to cover the opening. For example, the pattern in which the plurality of recesses (700) are formed is not limited to FIG. 11, and a greater number of recesses than the number of recesses shown in FIG. 11 may be formed between two recesses, and the spacing between the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed differently from each other.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 12, a plurality of recesses (700) may be formed to extend from a first side (910) of a cover member (360) to a third side (930) formed perpendicular to the first side (910). For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be extended to open from the first side (910) of the cover member (360) to the third side (930). However, not limited thereto, the plurality of recesses (700) may be extended to open from the first side (910) to the fourth side (940), or extended to open from the second side (920) to the third side (930) or the fourth side (940). For example, as the plurality of recesses (700) are extended to open from the first side (910) to the third side (930), the path for air discharge is formed shorter, so that air can be discharged at a faster speed.

[0082] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a cover member including a third adhesive member according to one embodiment.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover member (360) may include a third adhesive member (1000). For example, the third adhesive member (1000) may be attached to the second adhesive member (820). For example, a plurality of third adhesive members (1000) may be attached to the second adhesive member (820) at a predetermined interval. According to one embodiment, one side of the third adhesive member (1000) is attached to the second adhesive member (820), and the other side opposite to the one side of the third adhesive member (1000) may not be attached to the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350). For example, the other side of the third adhesive member (1000) may not contain an adhesive material.

[0084] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the cover member (360) is attached to the support plate (350), a space may be formed between the second adhesive member (820) and the support plate (350) by the third adhesive member (1000). For example, a portion of the second adhesive member (820) in which the third adhesive member (1000) is provided may not be attached to the support plate (350), thereby forming a predetermined space. According to one embodiment, air inside the plurality of openings (400) of the support plate (350) may be discharged through the space in which the third adhesive member (1000) is provided between the second adhesive member (820) and the support plate (350).

[0085] FIGS. 14 and 15 are drawings illustrating an example of a plurality of recesses formed by a third adhesive member and a support plate according to one embodiment.

[0086] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of openings (400) may overlap with at least one of the plurality of third adhesive members (1000). For example, when the cover member (360) is attached to the central support portion (353) of the support plate (350), each of the plurality of openings (400) may overlap with at least one of the plurality of third adhesive members (1000) when viewed from a vertical direction relative to the support plate (350), for example, when the support plate (350) is placed horizontally and the support plate (350) is viewed from a vertical direction.

[0087] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, a plurality of recesses (700) may be formed by a third adhesive member (1000). With reference to FIGS. 14, according to one embodiment, some of the plurality of recesses (700) may be arranged adjacent to each other, and other parts of the plurality of recesses (700) may be arranged relatively far apart. For example, if an opening is formed between two of the plurality of recesses (700) that does not overlap with any of the plurality of recesses (700), a recess may be formed to cover the opening. For example, the pattern in which the plurality of recesses (700) are formed is not limited to FIG. 14, and a greater number of recesses may be formed between two recesses than the number of recesses shown in FIG. 14, and the spacing between the plurality of recesses (700) may be formed differently.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 15, a plurality of recesses (700) may be formed to extend from a first side (910) of a cover member (360) to a third side (930) formed perpendicular to the first side (910). For example, the plurality of recesses (700) may be extended to open from the first side (910) of the cover member (360) to the third side (930). However, not limited thereto, the plurality of recesses (700) may be extended to open from the first side (910) to the fourth side (940), or extended to open from the second side (920) to the third side (930) or the fourth side (940). For example, as the plurality of recesses (700) are extended to open from the first side (910) to the third side (930), the path for air discharge is formed shorter, so that air can be discharged at a faster speed.

[0089] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 16, in a network environment (1600), an electronic device (1601) may communicate with an electronic device (1602) through a first network (1698) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with at least one of an electronic device (1604) or a server (1608) through a second network (1699) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1601) may communicate with the electronic device (1604) through a server (1608). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1601) may include a processor (1620), memory (1630), input module (1650), sound output module (1655), display module (1660), audio module (1670), sensor module (1676), interface (1677), connection terminal (1678), haptic module (1679), camera module (1680), power management module (1688), battery (1689), communication module (1690), subscriber identification module (1696), or antenna module (1697). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (1678)) may be omitted from the electronic device (1601), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (1676), camera module (1680), or antenna module (1697)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (1660)).

[0091] The processor (1620) can, for example, execute software (e.g., program (1640)) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (1601) connected to the processor (1620) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1620) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (1676) or communication module (1690)) in volatile memory (1632), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (1632), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (1634). According to one embodiment, the processor (1620) may include a main processor (1621) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (1623) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (1601) includes a main processor (1621) and an auxiliary processor (1623), the auxiliary processor (1623) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (1621) or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor (1623) may be implemented separately from the main processor (1621) or as part thereof.

[0092] The auxiliary processor (1623) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (1601) (e.g., display module (1660), sensor module (1676), or communication module (1690)) on behalf of the main processor (1621) while the main processor (1621) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (1621) while the main processor (1621) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1623) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (1680) or communication module (1690)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1623) (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 (1601) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (1608)). 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.

[0093] The memory (1630) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (1601) (e.g., processor (1620) or sensor module (1676)). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program (1640)) and related commands. The memory (1630) may include volatile memory (1632) or non-volatile memory (1634).

[0094] The program (1640) may be stored as software in memory (1630) and may include, for example, an operating system (1642), middleware (1644), or an application (1646).

[0095] The input module (1650) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (1601) (e.g., processor (1620)) from outside the electronic device (1601) (e.g., user). The input module (1650) 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).

[0096] The sound output module (1655) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (1601). The sound output module (1655) 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.

[0097] The display module (1660) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (1601). The display module (1660) 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 (1660) 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.

[0098] The audio module (1670) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (1670) can acquire sound through the input module (1650) or output sound through the sound output module (1655) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (1601).

[0099] The sensor module (1676) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (1601) (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 (1676) 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.

[0100] The interface (1677) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (1601) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602)). According to one embodiment, the interface (1677) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0101] The connection terminal (1678) may include a connector through which the electronic device (1601) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (1678) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0102] The haptic module (1679) 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 (1679) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0103] The camera module (1680) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (1680) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0104] The power management module (1688) can manage the power supplied to the electronic device (1601). According to one embodiment, the power management module (1688) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0105] The battery (1689) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (1601). According to one embodiment, the battery (1689) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0106] The communication module (1690) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (1601) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1602), electronic device (1604), or server (1608)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1690) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (1620) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (1690) may include a wireless communication module (1692) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (1694) (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 (1604) via a first network (1698) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (1699) (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 (1692) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (1601) within a communication network such as the first network (1698) or the second network (1699) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (1696).

[0107] The wireless communication module (1692) 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 (1692) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (1692) 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 (1692) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (1601), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1604)), or network system (e.g., second network (1699)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (1692) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for URLLC realization.

[0108] An antenna module (1697) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (1697) 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 (1697) 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 (1698) or a second network (1699), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (1690). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (1690) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (1697).

[0109] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (1697) 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (1601) and an external electronic device (1604) through a server (1608) connected to a second network (1699). Each of the external electronic devices (1602, or 1604) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (1601). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (1601) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (1602, 1604, or 1608). For example, if the electronic device (1601) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (1601) 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 (1601). The electronic device (1601) 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 (1601) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (1604) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (1608) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (1604) or server (1608) may be included within the second network (1699). The electronic device (1601) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0112] The problem to be solved according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be as follows.

[0113] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device comprising an adhesive member disposed between a flexible display and a support plate can be provided.

[0114] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may be provided that includes a cover member disposed to cover a plurality of openings of a support plate.

[0115] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may be provided that includes a cover member disposed to cover a plurality of openings of a support plate and including a plurality of recesses.

[0116] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing, a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, a support plate disposed to cross the hinge assembly and including a plurality of openings formed through it, a flexible display supported by the support plate, and a cover member disposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate. The cover member may include a plurality of recesses formed to extend from a first surface to a second surface of the cover member.

[0117] Multiple openings can be arranged so as to overlap with at least one of the multiple recesses when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support plate.

[0118] Each of the multiple openings can be positioned to contact at least one of the multiple recesses.

[0119] Each of the plurality of openings may be arranged to cooperate with at least one of the plurality of recesses to form at least one passage extending from the support plate to the cover member.

[0120] Multiple openings can be arranged so that air can flow from each of the multiple openings to at least one of the multiple recesses.

[0121] Multiple openings may be formed in the area of ​​a support plate adjacent to the hinge assembly. Multiple openings may be formed in the central support portion of the support plate located between the first housing and the second housing.

[0122] The first surface may be a first side of the cover member. The second surface may be a second side of the cover member.

[0123] The second surface may be the opposite side of the first surface. Alternatively, the second surface may be the other side of the cover member that is not the opposite side of the first surface. The second surface may be perpendicular to the first surface.

[0124] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may include a first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a support plate disposed within the first housing and the second housing and positioned across the hinge assembly. The support plate may include a first support portion, a second support portion, and a central support portion located between the first support portion and the second support portion. The central support portion may include a plurality of openings formed to penetrate the central support portion. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display supported by the support plate. The foldable electronic device may include a cover member disposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate and positioned to cover at least partially the central support portion. The cover member may include a plurality of recesses formed to extend from a first side of the cover member to a second side opposite to the first side. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support plate, each of the plurality of openings may be arranged to overlap with at least one of the plurality of recesses.

[0125] The first support portion may be placed at least partially within the first housing.

[0126] The second support portion may be placed at least partially within the second housing.

[0127] The central support portion can be placed at least partially within the hinge assembly.

[0128] Multiple openings can each be positioned to contact at least one of the multiple recesses.

[0129] A plurality of openings may each be arranged to cooperate with at least one of a plurality of recesses to form at least one passage extending from a support plate to a cover member.

[0130] Multiple openings can be arranged so that air can flow from each opening to at least one of multiple recesses.

[0131] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the internal space of each of the plurality of openings may be connected to at least one of the spaces formed by the plurality of recesses.

[0132] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, air within the internal space of each of the plurality of openings and air within the spaces formed by the plurality of recesses can be discharged through at least one of the first side or the second side of the cover member.

[0133] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the foldable electronic device may further include a first adhesive member disposed between the flexible display and the support plate and disposed to cover the plurality of openings. The cover member may include a cushioning member. The cover member may include a second adhesive member disposed between the cushioning member and the support plate and disposed to cover the plurality of openings. The plurality of recesses may be formed on the cushioning member by the second adhesive member.

[0134] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of recesses may be arranged spaced apart from each other on the cover member.

[0135] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first side and the second side may be parallel to the axial direction of the hinge assembly.

[0136] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of openings may be formed to have a length extending along the axial direction of the hinge assembly. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first side and the second side, the plurality of openings may be arranged to partially overlap each other.

[0137] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of recesses may be formed to be open from the first side to the second side.

[0138] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover member may include a third side perpendicular to the first side and the second side. Some of the plurality of recesses may be formed to be open from the first side to the third side.

[0139] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of recesses may be spaced apart by a plurality of intervals. Each of the plurality of intervals may be smaller than the length of the plurality of openings.

[0140] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of openings may have a plurality of lengths. Each of the plurality of intervals may be smaller than the plurality of lengths of the plurality of openings.

[0141] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of recesses may be arranged parallel to each other.

[0142] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing, a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, a support plate disposed to cross the hinge assembly and having a plurality of openings formed to penetrate a central support portion, a flexible display supported by the support plate, a cushioning member interposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate, and an adhesive member interposed between the cushioning member and the support plate and disposed to cover the plurality of openings.

[0143] Multiple recesses may be formed on the buffer member by an adhesive member. Multiple recesses may be formed between the buffer member and the adhesive member.

[0144] Multiple openings can be arranged so as to overlap with at least one of the multiple recesses when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support plate.

[0145] Each of the multiple openings can be positioned to contact at least one of the multiple recesses.

[0146] A plurality of openings may each be arranged to cooperate with at least one of a plurality of recesses to form at least one passage extending from a support plate to a cover member.

[0147] Multiple openings can be arranged so that air can flow from each opening to at least one of multiple recesses.

[0148] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device may include a first housing. The foldable electronic device may include a second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing. The foldable electronic device may include a support plate disposed within the first housing and the second housing and positioned across the hinge assembly. The support plate may include a first support portion, a second support portion, and a central support portion located between the first support portion and the second support portion. The central support portion may include a plurality of openings formed to penetrate the central support portion. The foldable electronic device may include a flexible display supported by the support plate. The foldable electronic device may include a cushioning member disposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate and positioned to at least partially cover the central support portion. The foldable electronic device may include an adhesive member disposed between the cushioning member and the support plate and positioned to cover the plurality of openings. A plurality of recesses can be formed on the buffer member by the adhesive member.

[0149] Each of the multiple openings can be positioned to overlap with at least one of the multiple recesses when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support plate.

[0150] Each of the multiple openings can be positioned to contact at least one of the multiple recesses.

[0151] A plurality of openings may each be arranged to cooperate with at least one of a plurality of recesses to form at least one passage extending from a support plate to a cover member.

[0152] Multiple openings can be arranged so that air can flow from each opening to at least one of multiple recesses.

[0153] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the cushioning member may include a first side parallel to the axial direction of the hinge assembly and a second side opposite to the first side. The plurality of recesses may be open from the first side to the second side.

[0154] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, air inside the plurality of openings can be discharged through the plurality of recesses.

[0155] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, it may further include another adhesive member disposed between the flexible display and the support plate and disposed to cover the plurality of openings.

[0156] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of openings may be formed to have a length extending along the axial direction of the hinge assembly. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first side and the second side, the plurality of openings may be arranged to partially overlap each other.

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of recesses may be spaced apart by a plurality of intervals. Each of the plurality of intervals may be smaller than the length of the plurality of openings.

[0158] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of openings may have a plurality of lengths. Each of the plurality of intervals may be smaller than the plurality of lengths of the plurality of openings.

[0159] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of recesses may be arranged parallel to each other.

[0160] The effects of the invention according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are as follows.

[0161] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the durability of a foldable electronic device can be improved by placing an adhesive member between a flexible display and a support plate.

[0162] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, by arranging a cover member to cover a plurality of openings of a support plate, foreign matter can be prevented from entering into the plurality of openings.

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover member disposed to cover a plurality of openings includes a plurality of recesses, so that air within the plurality of openings can be discharged to the outside of the foldable electronic device through the plurality of recesses.

[0164] In addition, various effects identified directly or indirectly through the present disclosure may be provided.

[0165] Methods according to the claims or embodiments described in the specification of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0166] When implemented in software, a computer-readable storage medium may be provided for storing one or more programs (software modules). One or more programs stored in the computer-readable storage medium are configured for execution by one or more processors within an electronic device. One or more programs include instructions that cause the electronic device to execute methods according to the claims or embodiments described in the specification of this disclosure.

[0167] These programs (software modules, software) may be stored in random access memory, non-volatile memory including flash memory, ROM (read-only memory), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic disc storage devices, compact disc-ROMs (CD-ROMs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), or other forms of optical storage devices, magnetic cassettes. Alternatively, they may be stored in memory composed of some or all of these. Additionally, each constituent memory may include multiple units.

[0168] Additionally, the above program may be stored on an attachable storage device that can be accessed via a communication network such as the Internet, Intranet, LAN (local area network), WLAN (wide LAN), or SAN (storage area network), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure through an external port. Additionally, a separate storage device on a communication network may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0169] In the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above, the components included in the disclosure are expressed in a singular or plural form according to the specific embodiments presented. However, the singular or plural expression is selected to suit the situation presented for convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited to singular or plural components; even if a component is expressed in the plural form, it may be composed of a singular form, and even if a component is expressed in the singular form, it may be composed of a plural form.

[0170] Additionally, in the present disclosure, terms such as “part,” “module,” etc. may be a hardware component, such as a processor or circuit, and / or a software component executed by a hardware component, such as a processor.

[0171] "Parts" and "modules" may be implemented by a program that is stored on an addressable storage medium and can be executed by a processor. For example, "parts" and "modules" may be implemented by components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, as well as by processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables.

[0172] The specific embodiments described in this disclosure are merely examples and do not limit the scope of this disclosure in any way. For the sake of brevity, descriptions of prior electronic configurations, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of said systems may be omitted.

[0173] Additionally, in the present disclosure, “comprising at least one of a, b, or c” may mean “comprising only a, comprising only b, comprising only c, comprising a and b, comprising b and c, comprising a and c, or comprising all of a, b, and c.”

[0174] Meanwhile, although specific embodiments have been described in the detailed description of the present disclosure, it is understood that various modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined by the claims set forth below as well as equivalents thereof.

[0175] It is understood that all embodiments and technical features described above may be combined with one another, and that any combination is possible as long as there is no conflict between any two embodiments or features. That is, all combinations of two or more embodiments described above are included and considered within the scope of the disclosure of the present invention. One or more features of any one embodiment may be included in another embodiment, and accordingly may provide corresponding advantages or multiple advantages.

Claims

1. In a foldable electronic device, First housing; Second housing; A hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; A support plate disposed to traverse the hinge assembly and disposed within the first housing and the second housing, wherein the support plate includes a first support portion, a second support portion, and a central support portion located between the first support portion and the second support portion, and the central support portion includes a plurality of openings formed to penetrate the central support portion; A flexible display supported by the above support plate; and It includes a cover member disposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate and disposed to cover at least partially the central support portion, The above cover member includes a plurality of recesses formed to extend from a first side of the cover member to a second side opposite to the first side, and A foldable electronic device, wherein when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support plate, each of the plurality of openings is arranged to overlap with at least one of the plurality of recesses.

2. In Paragraph 1, A foldable electronic device in which the internal space of each of the plurality of openings is connected to at least one of the spaces formed by the plurality of recesses.

3. In Paragraph 2, A foldable electronic device in which air within the internal space of each of the plurality of openings and air within the spaces formed by the plurality of recesses are discharged through at least one of the first side or the second side of the cover member.

4. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a first adhesive member disposed between the flexible display and the support plate and disposed to cover the plurality of openings, The above cover member is, buffer member; and It includes a second adhesive member disposed between the cushioning member and the support plate and disposed to cover the plurality of openings, and A foldable electronic device in which the plurality of recesses are formed on the buffer member by the second adhesive member.

5. In Paragraph 1, A foldable electronic device in which the plurality of recesses are arranged spaced apart from each other on the cover member.

6. In Paragraph 1, A foldable electronic device in which the first side and the second side are parallel to the axial direction of the hinge assembly.

7. In Paragraph 6, The plurality of openings are formed to have a length extended along the axial direction of the hinge assembly, and A foldable electronic device in which, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first side and the second side, the plurality of openings are arranged to partially overlap each other.

8. In Paragraph 1, A foldable electronic device in which the plurality of recesses are formed to be open from the first side to the second side.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above cover member includes a third side perpendicular to the first side and the second side, and A foldable electronic device, wherein some of the plurality of recesses are formed to be open from the first side to the third side.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of recesses are spaced apart by a plurality of intervals, and A foldable electronic device in which each of the plurality of gaps is smaller than the length of the plurality of openings.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above plurality of openings have plurality of lengths, and A foldable electronic device in which each of the plurality of gaps is smaller than the plurality of lengths of the plurality of openings.

12. In Paragraph 1, A foldable electronic device in which the above plurality of recesses are arranged parallel to each other.

13. In a foldable electronic device, First housing; Second housing; A hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; A support plate disposed to traverse the hinge assembly and disposed within the first housing and the second housing, wherein the support plate includes a first support portion, a second support portion, and a central support portion located between the first support portion and the second support portion, and the central support portion includes a plurality of openings formed to penetrate the central support portion; A flexible display supported by the above support plate; A cushioning member disposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate and disposed to cover at least partially the central support portion; and It includes an adhesive member disposed between the cushioning member and the support plate and disposed to cover the plurality of openings, A foldable electronic device in which a plurality of recesses are formed on the buffer member by the adhesive member.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above cushioning member includes a first side parallel to the axial direction of the hinge assembly and a second side opposite to the first side, and A foldable electronic device in which the plurality of recesses are opened from the first side to the second side.

15. In a foldable electronic device, First housing; Second housing; A hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing; A support plate disposed to traverse the hinge assembly and disposed within the first housing and the second housing, wherein the support plate includes a first support portion, a second support portion, and a central support portion located between the first support portion and the second support portion, and the central support portion includes a plurality of openings formed to penetrate the central support portion; A flexible display supported by the above support plate; and It includes a cover member disposed between the hinge assembly and the support plate and disposed to cover at least partially the central support portion, The above cover member includes a plurality of segments formed to extend from a first side of the cover member to a second side opposite to the first side, and The above segments are formed by an adhesive member disposed between the cover member and the support plate and disposed to cover the plurality of openings, and A foldable electronic device, wherein when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the support plate, each of the plurality of openings is arranged to overlap with at least one of the plurality of segments.

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