KR20200101251A - Structure of Hinge including a detent structure and Foldable Electronic Device including the same - Google Patents

Abstract

According to various embodiments of the present invention, a foldable electronic device comprises: a foldable housing including a hinge structure, a first housing structure, and a second housing structure; a flexible display; and a first detent structure. The first detent structure can comprise: a first member connected to the first housing structure; a second member connected to the second housing structure; a first ball and a second ball disposed in the first member; and an elastic member placed in the first member between the first ball and the second ball to press the first ball and the second ball in an outward direction. Therefore, the housing structures can be coupled to the hinge module more stably.

Description

[Structure of Hinge including a detent structure and Foldable Electronic Device including the same}

Various embodiments of the present document relate to a foldable electronic device.

Portable electronic devices such as smartphones may provide various functions such as calls, video playback, and Internet search based on various types of applications. The user may wish to use the above-described various functions through a wider screen. However, as the screen increases, portability may decrease. Accordingly, a foldable portable electronic device capable of enhancing portability by utilizing a folding structure in the conventional portable electronic device has been developed.

The foldable electronic device may be arranged to rotate while the hinge structure is connected to adjacent housing structures, and the hinge structure supports the housing structures while the housing structures rotate at a predetermined angle. When a plurality of hinge structures including a plurality of gears are applied to support the hinge operation of the housing structures, the hinge operation of the housing structures may be unnatural. In this regard, it may be considered as a method of reducing the number of hinge structures, but when the number of hinge structures is reduced, the force supporting the housing structures may be weakened.

Various embodiments provide a hinge module in which a detent structure capable of stably supporting the hinge operation of housing structures by configuring various types of hinge structures included in the hinge module, and a foldable electronic device including the same .

In addition, in various embodiments, by arranging the detent structure on the hinge module, the foldable electronic device can maintain a specified angle according to the hinge motion of the housing structures, and provide a sense of detent to the user to provide a clear recognition opportunity for the hinge motion. It is to provide a hinge module in which a detent structure capable of providing, and a foldable electronic device including the same.

A foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is a foldable housing, comprising: a hinge structure, a first housing structure connected to the hinge structure, and including a first surface and a second surface facing in a direction opposite to the first surface , A second housing structure connected to the hinge structure and including a third surface and a fourth surface facing in a direction opposite to the third surface, wherein the first housing structure includes the second housing structure around the hinge structure. The housing structure can be folded, the first surface faces the third surface in a folded state, the first surface faces in the same direction as the third surface in an unfolded state, and the folded state In the unfolded state, the first housing structure is rotatable around a first axis extending along the hinge structure, and the second housing structure is rotatable around a second axis parallel to the first axis. And a first region disposed on the first housing structure and a second region disposed on the second housing structure, wherein the first region and the second region together form the first and third surfaces A first detent structure disposed on the flexible display and the hinge housing, which includes a first through hole and a second through hole spaced apart from the first axis and the second axis, and aligned along a parallel third axis. 1 A first member connected to the housing structure, a first groove or a first opening facing the first through hole and the second through hole, and a second groove or a second opening, and connected to the second housing structure In the unfolded state, a second member formed to receive a part of the first member, coupled to the first through hole, and in the unfolded state, disposed between the first through hole and the first groove or the first opening A first ball, a second ball coupled to the second through hole, and disposed between the second through hole and the second groove or the second opening in an unfolded state, and the first ball And a first detent structure including an elastic member positioned on the first member between the second balls and pressing the first ball and the second ball in an outward direction.

The hinge module to which the first housing structure and the second housing structure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure are connected to each other to perform a hinge operation includes a hinge housing, a first detent structure seated on the hinge housing, and the first detent The structure includes a first plate coupling part connected to the first housing structure and a second plate coupling part connected to the second housing structure, and the first plate coupling part is connected to a first coupling body and the first coupling body. And are arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance, and include support portions each having a mounting region at a predetermined position, and the second plate coupling portion is formed on both sides of a second coupling body, a mount body connected to the second coupling body, and the mount body. Including fixing holes, mounting portions seated in the fixing holes, mounting portions seated in the mounting body, and pressing the mounting portions in the direction of the mounting regions while the first housing structure and the second housing structure are unfolded. It may include an elastic member.

A hinge module to which a first housing structure and a second housing structure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure are connected to each other to perform a hinge operation, is mounted on a hinge housing and the hinge housing, and a hinge of the first housing structure and the second housing structure A plurality of detent structures that provide a sense of detent in an angular range specified in operation, a first hinge structure mounted on the hinge housing and independently connected to the first housing structure and the second housing structure and not interlocked with each other, and The second hinge structure may include a third hinge structure mounted on the hinge housing, connected to the first housing structure and the second housing structure, and gear-interlocked.

A hinge module on which a detent structure is disposed and a foldable electronic device including the same according to various embodiments of the present disclosure support housing structures to be more stably coupled to the hinge module.

In addition, a hinge module in which a detent structure is disposed and a foldable electronic device including the same according to various embodiments may provide a user with a stable and firm sense of detent.

In addition, a hinge module in which a detent structure is disposed according to various embodiments and a foldable electronic device including the same support a user to quickly and easily implement a specific mounting angle desired by the user.

In addition, various purposes and effects provided by a hinge module in which a detent structure is disposed according to various embodiments and a foldable electronic device including the same may be mentioned according to embodiments of the detailed description.

1A is a diagram illustrating an example of a front appearance in a first state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
1B is a diagram illustrating an example of a rear appearance of a foldable electronic device in a first state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
1C is a diagram illustrating an example of an external appearance of a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
1D is a diagram illustrating another example of an appearance of a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
2 is an example of an exploded perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
3A is a diagram illustrating an example of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
3B is an exploded perspective view of the detent structure of FIG. 3A.
4A is a diagram illustrating an example of a designated angular state of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
4B is a view showing an example of the first plate coupling portion of FIG. 4A.
5A is a diagram illustrating an example of some configurations of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
5B is a diagram illustrating an example of the designated first area 30_1 of FIG. 5A.
5C is a view showing an example of a cut surface taken along the AA′ cut line of FIG. 5B.
5D is a view showing an example of a cut surface taken along the line BB` of FIG. 5C.
6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an arrangement of a plurality of first detent structures according to an exemplary embodiment.
7A is a view showing another example of a first plate coupling unit according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
7B is a diagram illustrating an example of a designated angle state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
8A is a diagram illustrating an example of an impact response structure of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
8B is a diagram illustrating another example of an impact response structure of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
8C is a diagram illustrating another example of a noise prevention structure of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an unfolded state of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
10A is a diagram illustrating an example of an arrangement cross-section of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
10B is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-sectional perspective view of an arrangement of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
11A is a diagram illustrating an example of an arrangement cross-section of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device at an angle according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
11B is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-sectional perspective view of an arrangement of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device at an angle according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
12A is a diagram illustrating an example of an arrangement cross-section of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a designated angle state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
12B is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-sectional perspective view of an arrangement of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a designated angle state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
13A is a diagram illustrating an example of an arrangement cross-section of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a first state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
13B is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-sectional perspective view of an arrangement of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a first state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
14 is a diagram illustrating an example of another form of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
15A is a diagram illustrating another example of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
15B is a view showing an example of a folded state of a detent structure based on the DD′ cut line of FIG. 15A.
16A is a diagram illustrating an example of an exploded perspective view of a third hinge structure of a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
16B is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-section of a third hinge structure arrangement region of the foldable electronic device in a first state.
17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 16 of a third hinge structure 40 according to various embodiments.
18 is a cross-sectional view of a third hinge structure 40 taken along line B-B' of FIG. 16 according to various embodiments.
19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first hinge structure or a second hinge structure of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
20A is a view of the hinge structure of FIG. 19 as viewed from above.
20B is an exploded perspective view of the hinge structure of FIG. 19.
20C is a view showing a cross-section of the hinge structure of FIG. 19 and the hinge plate coupled state.

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present document will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the technology described in this document to a specific embodiment, it should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and/or alternatives of the embodiments of this document. . In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar elements.

In this document, expressions such as "have", "may have", "include", or "may contain" are the presence of corresponding features (eg, elements such as numbers, functions, actions, or parts). And does not exclude the presence of additional features.

In this document, expressions such as "A or B", "at least one of A or/and B", or "one or more of A or/and B" may include all possible combinations of items listed together. . For example, “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, or “at least one of A or B” includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, Or (3) it may refer to all cases including both at least one A and at least one B.

Expressions such as “first”, “second”, “first”, or “second” used in this document can modify various elements regardless of their order and/or importance, and It is used to distinguish it from the component, but does not limit the component. For example, a first user device and a second user device may represent different user devices regardless of order or importance. For example, without departing from the scope of the rights described in this document, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may be renamed to a first component.

Some component (eg, a first component) is "(functionally or communicatively) coupled with/to)" to another component (eg, a second component) or " When referred to as "connected to", it should be understood that the certain component may be directly connected to the other component or may be connected through another component (eg, a third component). On the other hand, when a component (eg, a first component) is referred to as being “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component (eg, a second component), the component and the It may be understood that no other component (eg, a third component) exists between the different components.

The expression "configured to" used in this document is, for example, "suitable for", "having the capacity to" depending on the situation. It can be used interchangeably with ", "designed to", "adapted to", "made to", or "capable of". The term "configured to (or set)" may not necessarily mean only "specifically designed to" in hardware. Instead, in some situations, the expression "a device configured to" may mean that the device "can" along with other devices or parts. For example, the phrase “a processor configured (or configured) to perform A, B, and C” means a dedicated processor (eg, an embedded processor) for performing the operation, or by executing one or more software programs stored in a memory device. , May mean a generic-purpose processor (eg, a CPU or an application processor) capable of performing corresponding operations.

Terms used in this document are only used to describe a specific embodiment, and may not be intended to limit the scope of other embodiments. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the technical field described in this document. Among the terms used in this document, terms defined in a general dictionary may be interpreted as having the same or similar meanings as those in the context of the related technology, and unless explicitly defined in this document, an ideal or excessively formal meaning Is not interpreted as. In some cases, even terms defined in this document cannot be interpreted to exclude embodiments of this document.

Electronic devices according to various embodiments of the present document include, for example, a smartphone, a tablet personal computer, a mobile phone, a video phone, an e-book reader, Desktop PC (desktop personal computer), laptop PC (laptop personal computer), netbook computer, workstation, server, PDA (personal digital assistant), PMP (portable multimedia player), MP3 player, mobile medical It may include at least one of a device, a camera, or a wearable device. According to various embodiments, the wearable device is an accessory type (e.g., a watch, a ring, a bracelet, an anklet, a necklace, glasses, contact lens, or a head-mounted-device (HMD)), a fabric, or an integrated clothing ( For example, it may include at least one of an electronic clothing), a body-attached type (eg, a skin pad or tattoo), or a living body type (eg, an implantable circuit).

Hereinafter, electronic devices according to various embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this document, the term user may refer to a person using an electronic device or a device (eg, an artificial intelligence electronic device) using an electronic device.

1A is a diagram illustrating an example of a front appearance of a foldable electronic device in a first state according to various embodiments, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating an example of a rear appearance of a foldable electronic device in a first state according to various embodiments. to be. 1C is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments, and FIG. 1D is a diagram illustrating another example of the appearance of a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments.

1A to 1D, a foldable electronic device 100 according to an embodiment includes a housing 120 including a first housing structure 121 and a second housing structure 122, and a display 110 (example : A flexible display), a first cover 161, a second cover 162, a hinge housing 150 in which a hinge structure (or hinge structure) is disposed inside, and a sensor unit 190 may be included. 1A and 1B show the front and rear surfaces of the foldable electronic device 100 in a first state (eg, a flat state, an unfolded state, or an unfolded state), and FIGS. 1C and 1D are views of the foldable electronic device 100. It is a perspective view including upper and lower surfaces (or left and right sides) in a second state (eg, a folded state or a folded state).

According to various embodiments, the first housing structure 121 is disposed continuously with the second housing structure 122 according to the arrangement (for example, when the center of the display 110 is flattened or the housing 120) In the unfolded state), the second housing structure 122 may be disposed in parallel. Alternatively, when the center of the display 110 is folded, one surface of the first housing structure 121 may be disposed to face one surface of the second housing structure 122.

The first housing structure 121 may be, for example, at least partially formed of a metallic material, or at least partially formed of a non-metallic material. For example, the first housing structure 121 may be formed of a material having a certain rigidity to support at least a portion of the display 110. One area (or first portion) of the display 110 may be disposed on a part of the front surface of the first housing structure 121. At least a part of the inside of the first housing structure 121 is provided in a hollow form or is provided in a form that is hollow while being combined with the first cover 161 to provide an electronic element required for driving the display 110 (for example, a printed circuit). A substrate, at least one processor mounted on the printed circuit board, at least one memory, and an element such as a battery) may be disposed. According to various embodiments, an edge of the first housing structure 121 may be provided to surround one edge of the display 110.

According to various embodiments, the second housing structure 122 is disposed parallel to the first housing structure 121 according to the arrangement, or at least one surface is one surface of the first housing structure 121 (for example, the display 110). It may be disposed to face the surface). The second housing structure 122 may be formed of the same material as the first housing structure 121. As the second housing structure 122 is disposed in a horizontal or vertical symmetrical shape with the first housing structure 121, the remaining one area of the area disposed on the first housing structure 121 of the display 110 on the front side It may be arranged to support at least a portion of. At least a part of the inside of the second housing structure 122 is provided in a hollow shape similar to the first housing structure 121 or is provided in a hollow shape while being combined with the second cover 162 to drive the display 110 The necessary electronic elements can be placed. According to various embodiments, the edge of the second housing structure 122 may be provided to surround the other edge of the display 110.

According to various embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 includes a sensor arrangement area 123 on one side of the second housing structure 122 in which at least one sensor related to operation of a specific function of the foldable electronic device 100 is disposed. Can include. At least one of, for example, a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, an iris sensor, an image sensor (or camera), or a fingerprint sensor may be disposed in the sensor arrangement area 123. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when the foldable electronic device 100 arranges the at least one sensor on the rear side, the sensor arrangement area 123 may be disposed on the rear side.

According to various embodiments, the hinge housing 150 is covered by one side of the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 according to the folded or unfolded state of the foldable electronic device 100 (for example, The housing 120 may be opened or exposed to the outside (eg, the housing 120 is folded). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, when the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are arranged side by side, the hinge housing 150 is the first housing structure 121 and the second housing. It may be obscured by the structure 122. 1C and 1D, when one surface of the first housing structure 121 and one surface of the second housing structure 122 are disposed to face each other, the hinge housing 150 includes the first housing structure 121 and It may be disposed to be exposed to the outside from the side of the second housing structure 122.

According to various embodiments, at least a portion of the display 110 may be provided in a foldable manner. According to an embodiment, the display 110 includes a first area disposed on the first housing structure 121, a second area disposed on the second housing structure 122, and the first housing structure 121. ) And the second housing structure 122 may include a central region within a predetermined range around an adjacent region. At least a portion of the central region may be provided flexibly.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensor unit 190 may be disposed in a predetermined area behind the foldable electronic device 100. The sensor unit 190 may include at least one of at least one image sensor, an illuminance sensor, a heart rate sensor, and a fingerprint sensor. Although a plurality of image sensors are arranged in the illustrated drawing, the present invention is not limited thereto. According to various embodiments, the sensor unit 190 may include a light emitting unit (eg, a lamp or an LED) related to supporting a flash function.

2 is an example of an exploded perspective view of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 2, a foldable electronic device 100 according to an embodiment includes a display 110, a housing 120, and electronic device elements such as a first printed circuit board 131, a second printed circuit board 132. , At least one of the first battery 133, the second battery 134, the hinge plates 141 and 142, the hinge module 200, the first cover 161 and the second cover 162 may be included. have.

According to various embodiments, the display 110 may include a first area 51, a second area 52, and a central area 53. The central area 53 may include a certain area located in the inner center while the display 110 is folded. At least a portion of the first region 51 may be attached and fixed to the first housing structure 121. At least a portion of the second region 52 may be attached and fixed to the second housing structure 122. The central region 53 may be disposed so as not to be fixed to the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 (or disposed so as not to be attached). Accordingly, while the display 110 is folded or unfolded, the central region 53 may not be attached to the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 and may flow.

According to various embodiments, the first housing structure 121 includes a first surface 121a and a second surface 121b opposite to the first surface 121a, and the second housing structure 122 is It may include a third surface (122a) and a fourth surface (122b) opposite to the third surface (122a). The first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 may fold the hinge module 200 within an angular range designated as an axis. When the display 110 is folded (or the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are stacked), the third surface 122a faces the first surface 121a, and the display In the unfolded state (110), the first surface (121a) and the third surface (122a) face the same direction, and the first peripheral portion (121c) of the first housing structure (121) is the second housing structure (122) It may be connected to the second peripheral portion 122c of. The display 110 (or the flexible display layer) may be disposed to cross at least a portion of the first surface 121a and at least a portion of the third surface 122a. The display 9110 may be folded in the first peripheral portion 121c and the second peripheral portion 122c or in a region adjacent to the first peripheral portion 121c and the second peripheral portion 122c. A sensor arrangement area 123 may be disposed on one side of the second housing structure 122.

According to various embodiments, the first printed circuit board 131 may be disposed between the second surface 121b of the first housing structure 121 and the first cover 161. The second printed circuit board 132 may be disposed between the fourth surface 122b of the second housing structure 122 and the second cover 162. Alternatively, after the first printed circuit board 131 and the second printed circuit board 132 are integrated into a single printed circuit board, the second surface 121b and the first cover of the first housing structure 121 It may be disposed between 161 or between the fourth surface 122b of the second housing structure 122 and the second cover 162. Various electronic elements necessary for driving the foldable electronic device 100 may be disposed on the first printed circuit board 131 and the second printed circuit board 132. For example, at least one of the first printed circuit board 131 and the second printed circuit board 132 includes a memory, at least one processor, a communication circuit, an antenna, a microphone, a speaker, at least one sensor, and an electronic element related to driving the sensor. , Or a configuration such as a camera may be mounted.

According to various embodiments, the first battery 133 may be disposed between the second surface 121b of the first housing structure 121 and the first cover 161. The second battery 134 may be disposed between the fourth surface 122b of the second housing structure 122 and the second cover 162. The first battery 133 and the second battery 134 may supply power required for driving the foldable electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, the first battery 133 and the second battery 134 are connected to at least one of the first printed circuit board 131 and the second printed circuit board 132, the display 110, and Power can be supplied to at least one sensor-like configuration. Meanwhile, in the above description, a structure in which a plurality of batteries are provided has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the foldable electronic device 100 may include only one battery.

The hinge plates 141 and 142 are a first hinge plate 141 coupled to one side of the first housing structure 121 and the hinge module 200, or the second housing structure 122 and the hinge module 200 It may include a second hinge plate 142 coupled to the other side of the. One side of the first hinge plate 141 is fixed to the edge of the first housing structure 121 adjacent to the second housing structure 122, for example, and hinge structures (or hinges) included in the hinge module 200 Structures) (200a, 300, 200b) and a portion of at least one detent structure (400a, 400b, 400c, 400d) may be fixed to the other side. The first detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d temporarily stop the device in a mechanical device, or stop the device at a pressure below a specified size, and move the device at a pressure exceeding the specified size. It may be a configuration to do. According to an embodiment, the first detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d allow mounting at a specified angle according to the hinge operation of the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122. As a configuration, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 rotates while the angle of the inner angle formed by the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 stops at a specified angle. And, when a force of more than a specified size is applied, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 may have a state in which the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are unfolded at a specified angle in the folded state or a state in which they are folded at a specified angle in the unfolded state. Accordingly, while the user folds or unfolds the first housing structure 121 or the second housing structure 122, the hinge structures 200a, 200b, 300 and at least one detent structure 400a, 400b, 400c , 400d), the force generated by the folding or unfolding of the housing structures 121 and 122 may be transmitted. The second hinge plate 142 is, for example, the edge and one side of the second housing structure 122 adjacent to the first housing structure 121 is fixed, the hinge structures 200a included in the hinge module 200, The other side may be fixed to the rest of the 300, 200b) and the at least one detent structure 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d. Accordingly, the force (or pressure) applied by the user to fold or unfold the first housing structure 121 or the second housing structure 122 is the hinge structures 200a, 200b, 300 and at least one detent structure. It may be delivered to at least some of the remaining (400a, 400b, 400c, 400d).

The hinge module 200 includes a hinge housing 150, a first hinge structure 200a, a second hinge structure 200b, and a third hinge structure 300, or at least one detent structure 400a, 400b, It may include at least one of 400c and 400d).

The hinge housing 150 is provided in a semi-cylindrical shape (or a semi-elliptic cylindrical shape), and may have a structure in which both ends are closed. The inside of the hinge housing 150 is empty, the first hinge structure 200a, the second hinge structure 200b, the third hinge structure 300, and at least one detent structure 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d) can be settled. The hinge housing 150 may have a length corresponding to a length in a direction of one axis (eg, a long axis) of the display or a length in a direction of one axis (eg, a long axis) of the first housing structure 121. The shape of the short axis cross section of the hinge housing 150 may include a semicircular shape or a semi-elliptical shape, or at least a part of the curved surface. The hinge housing 150 includes at least one boss 151 used to seat and fix at least one of the hinge structures 200a, 200b, and 300 and the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d (E.g., projections for screwing) may be included.

The first hinge structure 200a may be disposed at a point of the hinge housing 150 that is symmetrical with the second hinge structure 200b with respect to the center of the hinge housing 150. For example, the first hinge structure 200a may be arranged to be skewed above the center of the hinge housing 150 shown. According to an embodiment, the first hinge structure 200a may be disposed adjacent to an upper end of the hinge housing 150. A part of the first hinge structure 200a may be fixed to the hinge housing 150, and another part of the first hinge structure 200a may be coupled to the hinge plates 141 and 142. For example, one side of the first hinge structure 200a may be coupled to one side of the first hinge plate 141, and the other side of the first hinge structure 200a may be coupled to one side of the second hinge plate 142. . The first hinge structure 200a may perform a hinge operation in response to the rotational motion of the hinge plates 141 and 142 coupled thereto. According to an embodiment, in the first hinge structure 200a, two sub-hinge structures are disposed to cross each other, and hinge operations of the hinge plates 141 and 142 may be independently performed. At least a part of the first hinge structure 200a may be formed of a metal material.

The second hinge structure 200b may be disposed at another point of the hinge housing 150 that is symmetrical with the first hinge structure 200a with respect to the center of the hinge housing 150. Alternatively, the second hinge structure 200b may be arranged to be biased to the lower side with respect to the center of the hinge housing 150 shown. According to an embodiment, the second hinge structure 200b may be disposed adjacent to the lower end of the hinge housing 150. A part of the second hinge structure 200b may be fixed to the hinge housing 150, and another part of the second hinge structure 200b may be coupled to the hinge plates 141 and 142. For example, one side of the second hinge structure 200b may be coupled to the other side of the first hinge plate 141, and the other side of the second hinge structure 200b may be coupled to the other side of the second hinge plate 142. . The second hinge structure 200b may perform a hinge operation in response to the rotational motion of the hinge plates 141 and 142 coupled thereto. According to an embodiment, in the second hinge structure 200b, two sub-hinge structures are disposed to be staggered from each other in the same manner as the first hinge structure 200a, and are independent of the hinge operation of the hinge plates 141 and 142, respectively. You can do the hinge operation. The second hinge structure 200b may be formed of the same material as the first hinge structure. According to various embodiments, the second hinge structure 200b may have substantially the same structure and shape as the first hinge structure 200a, but may have different positions on the hinge housing 150.

The third hinge structure 300 may be disposed in the center of the hinge housing 150. A part of the third hinge structure 300 may be fixed to the hinge housing 150, and a part of the third hinge structure 300 may be connected to the first hinge plate 141 and the second hinge plate 142, respectively. The third hinge structure 300 is connected to the first hinge plate 141 and the first hinge plate 141 through interlocking gears, the first housing structure 121 (or the second hinge plate 142 and the second The second housing structure 122 coupled to the second hinge plate 142 and the second hinge plate 142 while the second housing structure 122 coupled to the hinge plate 142 performs a hinge operation (or The first hinge plate 141 and the first housing structure 121 coupled to the first hinge plate 141 may transmit force to perform a hinge operation together.

According to an embodiment, at least one detent structure 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d may be disposed inside the hinge housing 150 at a predetermined position. For example, the first detent structure 400a may be disposed between the first hinge structure 200a and the third hinge structure 300. The second to fourth detent structures 400b, 400c, and 400d may be disposed between the second hinge structure 200b and the third hinge structure 300. In the drawings shown in relation to the at least one detent structure 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d, it is illustrated that four are arranged, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the hinge module 200 may include one or two or more detent structures. The at least one detent structure 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d may have the same structure. According to various embodiments, a plurality of detent structures may have the same structure and size, but may have different directions in the hinge housing 150.

According to various embodiments, the first cover 161 may be disposed to cover at least a portion of the second surface 121b of the first housing structure 121 on the rear surface of the first housing structure 121. The first cover 161 may be disposed to cover a portion of the hinge module 200 (eg, one side of the hinge housing 150) disposed between the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 have. The corners of the first cover 161 may be rounded. The first cover 161 may have an empty shape or may form an empty space between the first housing structure 121 while being fastened with the second surface 121b of the first housing structure 121. For example, the first cover 161 may have a square-shaped bottom surface and a structure in which sidewalls are formed on top or left and right of the bottom surface.

According to various embodiments, the second cover 162 is disposed adjacent to the first cover 161 and is fastened to the fourth surface 122b of the second housing structure 122, so that the second housing structure 122 ) May be disposed to cover at least a portion of (eg, at least a portion of the fourth surface 122b). The second cover 162 may be disposed to cover the remaining part of the hinge module 200 (eg, the other side of the hinge housing 150) partially covered by the first cover 161. The second cover 162 may have rounded corners similar to the first cover 161. The second cover 162 may have an empty shape or may form an empty space between the second housing structure 122 while being fastened with the fourth surface 122b of the second housing structure 122. In this regard, the second cover 162 may have a square-shaped bottom surface and a structure in which sidewalls are formed at the lower end and left and right of the bottom surface.

In the above description, the first hinge structure 200a and the second hinge structure 200b are disposed at both ends of the hinge housing 150 based on the center of the hinge housing 150, and the first hinge structure and the first hinge structure Although the form in which the third hinge structure 300 is disposed between the 2 hinge structures 200b has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, only one of the first hinge structure 200a or the second hinge structure 200b that does not include a separate interlocking gear and is not interlocked may be disposed in the hinge housing 150. For example, in the foldable electronic device 100 of the present invention, a first hinge structure 200a having a non-interlocking structure is disposed at one end of the hinge housing 150, and at a different position (for example, of the hinge housing 150). A plurality of hinge structures of a third hinge structure 300 (eg, an interlocking structure including interlocking gears) may be disposed at the center or the other end of the hinge housing 150.

3A is a diagram illustrating an example of a detent structure according to various embodiments, and FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of the detent structure of FIG. 3A. 4A is a view showing an example of a designated angular state of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and FIG. 4B is a view showing an example of a first plate coupling portion of FIG. 4A.

3A to 4B, the third detent structure 400c may include a first plate coupling portion 410 and a second plate coupling portion 420. According to various embodiments, structures of the first detent structure 400a, the second detent structure 400b, and the fourth detent structure 400d are also similar to those of the third detent structure 400c. It may include a plate coupling portion and a second plate coupling portion.

According to an embodiment, the first plate coupling portion 410 may be coupled through the first housing structure 121 and the first hinge plate 141. As another example, the first plate coupling portion 410 may be coupled through the second housing structure 122 and the second hinge plate 142. At least part of the first plate coupling part 410 may be formed of a metal material (eg, SUS (Stainless steel), aluminum, or an alloy thereof), or at least part of the first plate coupling part 410 may be formed of a non-metal material (eg, a plastic structure). . According to an embodiment, the first plate coupling part 410 may include a first coupling body 411, a bridge 412, a first support part 413, and a second support part 414.

According to an embodiment, the first coupling body 411 has, for example, a first length designated in a first axis direction (x, -x), and a second length in a second axis direction (y, -y). It may have a bar shape or a bar shape having a predetermined thickness with rounded edges or corners. In an embodiment, a first rivet hole 411b is disposed at an edge in the first direction (-x) of the first coupling body 411, and a first rivet hole 411b is disposed at an edge in the second direction (x) of the first coupling body 411. 2 A rivet hole 411c is disposed, and a first coupling hole 411a may be disposed at at least a part of the center of the first coupling body 411. For example, a first rivet 411b_1 may be inserted into the first rivet hole 411b, and a second rivet 411c_1 may be inserted into the second rivet hole 411c. A hole guide 411a_1 may be disposed in the first coupling hole 411a. The first rivet 411b_1 is disposed through a hole provided on one side of the first hinge plate 141 (or the second hinge plate 142), and then the first hinge plate 141 (or the first 2 The hinge plate 142 may be fixed to the first coupling body 411. The second rivet 411c_1 is disposed through a hole provided on one side of the second hinge plate 142 (or the first hinge plate 141), and then the second hinge plate 142 (or the first 1 The hinge plate 141 may be fixed to the first coupling body 411. After the hole guide 411a_1 is mounted in the first coupling hole 411a, the hole guide 411a_1 may be coupled to the first hinge plate 141 placed thereon.

According to an embodiment, the bridge 412 may extend from the center of the first coupling body 411 to a predetermined length in the third axis direction (-y) with a specified width. A part of the first coupling hole 411a may be disposed on one side of the bridge 412. A first support part 413 and a second support part 414 may be connected to an end of the bridge 412.

According to an embodiment, one side of the first support part 413 may extend from the bridge 412 and may be provided in an inverted “L” shape as a whole. According to an embodiment, the first support part 413 may include a first wing 413a, a second wing 413b, a first mounting hole 413c, or a first bent portion 413d. The first mounting hole 413c may be formed as a through hole or a groove. The first wing 413a may extend from the bridge 412 in a first direction (-x) with a predetermined width. The second wing 413b may extend from the end of the first wing 413a to have a predetermined width in the third direction (-y). The first mounting hole 413c penetrates the second blade 413b (eg, penetrates the second blade 413b in the first axial direction (x, -x)) and may have a predetermined size. The first bent portion 413d is in a first direction (-x) from the end of the second wing 413b (for example, in the same direction as the direction in which the first wing 413a extends from the end of the bridge 412). It has a specified curvature and can be provided in a curved shape. While the first bent portion 413d is coupled to the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second plate coupling portion 420, the first mounting portion 431 is coupled to the first support portion 413 and the second support portion 414 It can be made to be inserted smoothly inward. According to various embodiments, the first bent portion 413d may serve to guide the first mounting portion 431 to be moved in the direction of the first mounting hole 413c while being inserted into the first mounting hole 413c. have. According to various embodiments, as the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second plate coupling portion 420 rotate according to the rotational motion of the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122, respectively, In order that the first mounting portion 431 can be smoothly inserted into the first support portion 413, the first bent portion 413d is an angle specified in one direction (e.g., -y-axis to -x-axis direction) in the illustrated drawing. It may be formed to protrude or be bent by a specified height in a direction inclined by

According to an embodiment, the second support part 414 extends from the bridge 412 in a second direction (x), and is symmetrical with respect to the first support part 413 and the third axis (-y) as a whole. It can be provided in a "L" shape. According to an embodiment, the second support part 414 may include a third wing 414a, a fourth wing 414b, a second mounting hole 414c, or a second bent portion 414d. The second mounting hole 414c may be formed in the form of a through hole or a groove. The third wing 414a may extend with a predetermined width in the second direction x from the end of the bridge 412. The fourth wing 414b may extend from the end of the third wing 414a with a predetermined width in the third direction (-y). The second mounting hole 414c may be formed in the fourth wing 414b. The second bent part 414d may be formed symmetrically with respect to the first bent part 413d and the third axis (-y) at the end of the fourth wing 414b. According to various embodiments, the fourth wing 414b and the second wing 413b may be disposed symmetrically with respect to the third axis (-y). The direction in which the first bent portion 413d and the first bent portion 413d are bent and the direction of the second bent portion 414d and the second bent portion 414d are arranged symmetrically with respect to the third axis (-y). I can.

According to an embodiment, the second plate coupling portion 420 may be coupled to the second housing structure 122 through the second hinge plate 142. As another example, when the first plate coupling portion 410 is coupled to the second housing structure 122 through the second hinge plate 142, the second plate coupling portion 420 may be a first hinge plate 141 ) Can be combined with the first housing structure 121. The second plate coupling portion 420 may contact or be spaced apart from the first plate coupling portion 410 according to an angle formed between the coupled second housing structure 122 and the first housing structure 121. At least part of the second plate coupling part 420 may be formed of a metal material or may be formed of the same material as the first plate coupling part 410. According to an embodiment, at least a part of the second plate coupling part 420 may be formed of a metal material, or at least a part of the second plate coupling part 420 may be formed of a non-metal material (eg, a plastic material).

According to an embodiment, the second plate coupling portion 420 may include at least one of the second coupling body 421, the mounting body 422, the elastic member 430, or the mounting portions 431 and 432. I can. The second coupling body 421 and the mounting body 422 may be provided integrally. In an embodiment, the second coupling body 421 and the mounting body 422 may be formed of the same material as the first coupling body 411 and/or the support portions 413 and 414.

According to an embodiment, the second coupling body 421 may have a certain thickness and width and may be made of a certain material, for example, a metal material. The second coupling body 421 includes a plate seating portion 421a and a plate seating portion 421a formed lower than the periphery by a designated height so that the second hinge plate 142 (or the first hinge plate 141) can be seated. At least one coupling protrusion (421a_2) formed on a second coupling hole (421a_1) formed on the hinge plate and used for coupling, and at least one coupling protrusion (421a_2) formed on the periphery formed higher than the plate seating portion (421a) by a specified height and used for coupling the hinge plate It may include. The plate seating portion 421a has a designated depth so that the portion to which the first or second hinge plate 141 or 142 is coupled does not protrude from the periphery according to the combination with the first or second hinge plate 141 or 142 It can be stepped to one side (-z) as much as (eg, the thickness of the hinge plate). The at least one coupling protrusion 421a_2 is aligned with a groove or hole formed in the first or second hinge plate 141 or 142, and prevents the flow of the first or second hinge plate 141 or 142, and , When combined with the first or second hinge plate 141, or 142, it can serve to guide the first or second hinge plate 141, or 142 to be well seated on the plate seating portion 421a. have.

According to an embodiment, the mounting body 422 extends from the second coupling body 421 in a fourth direction (y), and the elastic member 430 and the mounting portions 431 and 432 may be mounted. have. For example, the mounting body 422 is stepped in the same direction (-z) as the stepped direction of the plate mounting portion 421a so that the elastic member 430 can be mounted, and the outer shape of the elastic member 430 It may be provided in a form corresponding to. For example, the mounting body 422 may include an elastic member mounting portion 422a having at least a part of a curved surface to correspond to the outer shape of the spring-shaped elastic member 430. Fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 may be formed on both side walls of the mounting body 422 so that the mounting portions 431 and 432 may be fixed. For example, the mounting body 422 has a first fixing hole 422_1 having a larger diameter than the protrusions of the mounting portions 431 or 432 on the sidewall in the first direction (-x) and the sidewall in the second direction (x) It may include a second fixing hole (422_2) having a larger diameter than the protrusion of the mounting portion (431 or 432).

According to an embodiment, the elastic member 430 may be mounted on the elastic member mounting portion 422a of the mounting body 422. For example, the elastic member 430 may have a spring shape. As another example, the elastic member 430 may have a leaf spring shape. The elastic member 430 has an elastic force so that the first mounting portion 431 and the second mounting portion 432 are mounted in the first direction (-x) and the second direction (x) in the elastic member mounting portion 422a, respectively. Can exert.

According to an embodiment, the mounting portions 431 and 432 are connected to one side of the elastic member 430, and a first fixing hole 422_1 and a second fixing hole 422_2 formed in the elastic member mounting portion 422a It may be disposed to partially protrude through the first direction (-x) and the second direction (x). For example, the second mounting portion 432 (or the first mounting portion 431) has a protrusion 432a including a predetermined curved surface, and the diameter of the first fixing hole 422_1 at the bottom of the protrusion 432a A belt 432b provided with a larger diameter and/or a pillar 432c inserted into one side of the elastic member 430 may be included. At least a portion of the protrusion 432a protrudes outward from the mounting body 422 through the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2, and the first plate coupling portion 410 according to the hinge operation of the housing structures 121 and 122 ) Can be contacted. The belt 432b of the mounting portions 431 and 432 may serve to support the mounting portions 431 and 432 so as not to be separated from the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2. The pillar 432c prevents the mounting portions 431 and 432 from being separated from the elastic member 430 and the elastic member 430 so that the elastic member 430 is not separated from the elastic member seating portion 422a. ) Can be supported. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of at least one of the mounting portions 431 and 432 may be formed of a metallic material, or at least a portion of the mounting portions 431 and 432 may be formed of a non-metallic material (eg, plastic).

According to various embodiments, the mounting portions 431 and 432 may first contact the first bent portion 413d and the second bent portion 414d in an operation of contacting the first plate coupling portion 410. In this state, when the specified pressure is not added, the mounting portions 431 and 432 may maintain a state in contact with the bent portions 413d and 414d. Accordingly, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 may be temporarily fixed at a specified first angle. When a pressure of more than a specified size is added and the mounting portions 431 and 432 are moved into the mounting body 422 through the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2, at least a part of the second plate coupling portion 420 is removed. 1 It can be moved inside the plate coupling part 410. When the mounting portions 431 and 432 are aligned with the mounting holes 413c and 414c, the portion pushed into the mounting body 422 is moved to the outside of the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 by the elastic member 430. , At least a portion may be inserted into the mounting holes 413c and 414c. In this case, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 may have an open state.

5A is a diagram illustrating an example of a partial configuration of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating an example of a designated first area 30_1 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5C is a view showing an example of a cut surface taken along the line A-A′ of FIG. 3B, and FIG. 5D is a view showing an example of the cut surface taken along line B-B′ of FIG. 3C.

Referring to FIG. 5A, the foldable electronic device 100 may include a first housing structure 121, a second housing structure 122, or a hinge module 200. The foldable electronic device 100 illustrated in FIG. 5A illustrates a form in which the display 110 is removed from the foldable electronic device 100 described in FIG. 1A.

The first housing structure 121 may be coupled to the first hinge plate 141. The first housing structure 121 may be disposed on one side of the hinge module 200, for example, on the upper side based on the illustrated drawing. The printed circuit board or battery described in FIG. 2 may be mounted on the first housing structure 121, and a first area of the display may be disposed.

The second housing structure 122 may be coupled to the second hinge plate 142. The second housing structure 122 may be disposed on the other side of the hinge module 200, for example, on the lower side of the hinge module 200. The printed circuit board or battery described in FIG. 2 may be mounted on the second housing structure 122, and a second area of the display may be disposed.

The hinge module 200 is a hinge housing 150, a first hinge structure 200a, a second hinge structure 200b, a third hinge structure 300, or at least one detent structure 400a, 400b, 400c. , 400d) (eg, the detent structure 400c of FIG. 3A) may be disposed. For example, the hinge module 200 may have a length designated in the horizontal direction and may be provided in a semi-elliptical cross section.

According to an embodiment, the first hinge structure 200a may be disposed at the left edge end, and the second hinge structure 200b may be disposed at the right edge end based on the illustrated drawing. The third hinge structure 300 may be disposed between the first hinge structure 200a and the second hinge structure 200b or at the center of the hinge housing 150.

According to various embodiments, an electronic element placed on the first housing structure 121 and an electronic element placed on the second housing structure 122 are electrically connected between the first detent structure 400a and the third hinge structure 300. Signal wiring (eg, FPCB) to connect may be arranged. For example, a seat on which the signal wire is placed may be allocated to one side of the hinge module 200.

In an embodiment, the first detent structure 400a may be disposed between, for example, the first hinge structure 200a and the third hinge structure 300. The second detent structure 400b, the third detent structure 400c, and the fourth detent structure 400d may be disposed between the third hinge structure 300 and the second hinge structure 200b. According to various embodiments, the first detent structure 400a may be disposed adjacent to the first hinge structure 200a. The second detent structure 400b may be disposed adjacent to the third hinge structure 300. The fourth detent structure 400d may be disposed adjacent to the second hinge structure 200b. The third detent structure 400c may be disposed between the second detent structure 400b and the fourth detent structure 400d.

In an embodiment, the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d may have substantially the same structure. Each of the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d includes a first plate coupling portion (eg, the first plate coupling portion 410 in FIG. 3A) and a mounting portion (eg, mounting portions of FIG. 3B). 431, 432)) and an elastic member (eg, the elastic member 430 in FIG. 3B)), and a second plate coupling portion (eg, the second plate coupling portion in FIG. A plate coupling part 420) may be included. The arrangements of the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d may be different. For example, the first detent structure 400a is disposed on the hinge housing 150, and the first plate coupling portion is fixed to the first hinge plate 141, and the second plate coupling portion is fixed to the second hinge plate 142. I can. The second detent structure 400b is disposed on the hinge housing 150, and the first plate coupling part is fixed to the second hinge plate 142, and the first plate coupling part may be fixed to the first hinge plate 141. . The third detent structure 400c may have the same arrangement shape as the first detent structure 400a. The fourth detent structure 400d may have the same arrangement shape as the second detent structure 400b. According to various embodiments, the first detent structure 400a and the fourth detent structure 400d have the same arrangement state, and the second detent structure 400b and the third detent structure 400c are arranged the same. It can also have a state. As described above, the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d according to an embodiment are zigzag on the hinge housing 150 so that the plate coupling portions are at different positions to provide a feeling of operation and stability. Can be placed on

5B to 5D, the third detent structure 400c may include a first plate coupling portion 410 mounted on the hinge housing 150 and fixed to the first hinge plate 141. For example, at least a portion of the first hinge plate 141 is placed on the first plate coupling portion 410, and the first hinge plate 141 and the first plate coupling portion 410 are first coupled. The member 400c_1 may be coupled. For example, the first coupling member 400c_1 may include a screw. The first plate coupling part 410 may rotate together by a specified angle according to the rotation of the first housing structure 121 and the first hinge plate 141.

The third detent structure 400c may include a second plate coupling portion 420 mounted on the hinge housing 150 and fixed to the first hinge plate 141. For example, in the hinge module 200, the second hinge plate 142 is placed on the second plate coupling portion 420, and the second plate coupling portion 420 penetrates the second hinge plate 142. ) May further include a second coupling member 400c_2 to couple. The second plate coupling part 420 may hinge together in response to rotation of the second housing structure 122 and the second hinge plate 142.

When the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are in the unfolded state as shown, at least a portion of the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second plate coupling portion 420 contact each other It can be arranged as much as possible. In this operation, the elastic force of the elastic member 430 disposed on the second plate coupling portion 420 may act in the first direction (-x) or the second direction (x) of the hinge housing 150. The first mounting portion 431 (or the second mounting portion) by the elastic member 430 protrudes in a direction in which the second plate coupling portion 420 and the first plate coupling portion 410 contact, and the first While being in contact with the wing portion of the plate coupling portion 410, the second plate coupling portion 420 may be moved to the inside, and then may be seated in a groove or hole provided in the first plate coupling portion 410. The mounting portions 431 and 432 include a pillar 432c on which an end of the elastic member 430 is seated, and at least a portion of the pillar 432c extending from the pillar 432c and at least partially mounted on the mounting regions is formed as a part of a sphere. A protrusion 432a, a band 432b formed between the protrusion 432a and the pillar 432c to prevent separation of the elastic member from the fixing hole 422_2 may be included.

In the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d, when the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are folded, the plate coupling portions 410 and 420 are disposed to be separated from each other, The first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 may be coupled to each other during a hinge operation from a folded state to an unfolded state. In this operation, in the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d, the mounting portions 431 and 432 pressed in a predetermined direction by the elastic member 430 are seated in the groove or hole, or As the mounting portion is separated from, a certain sense of detent can be provided.

6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an arrangement of a plurality of first detent structures according to an exemplary embodiment. According to an embodiment, the detent structures 400c and 400d shown in FIG. 6 (eg, area 30_2 in FIG. 3) have a predetermined angle between the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122. (Example: 120 degrees or 140 degrees) shows the operating state in a state.

3A and 6, a plurality of detent structures may be disposed on the hinge module 200. According to an embodiment, the plurality of detent structures disposed on the hinge module 200 may have plate coupling portions disposed at different positions as shown in FIG. 6 in an arrangement state. The fourth detent structure 400d disposed adjacent to the third detent structure 400c may include a third plate coupling portion 410_2 and a fourth plate coupling portion 420_2. The third plate coupling portion 410_2 has substantially the same shape or structure as the first plate coupling portion 410 of the third detent structure 400c, and the fourth plate coupling portion 420_2 is the third detent structure 400c. It may have substantially the same shape or structure as the second plate coupling portion 420 of the detent structure 400c. For example, in the third detent structure 400c, the first plate coupling portion 410 may be disposed upward (eg, the upper side based on FIG. 3A) to be coupled to the first hinge plate 141, and 2 The plate coupling part 420 is disposed downward (for example, the lower side based on FIG. 3A) to be coupled to the second hinge plate 142, and the fourth detent structure 400d is the third plate coupling part. (410_2) is connected to the second housing structure 122 through the second hinge plate 142, and the fourth plate coupling portion 420_2 is connected to the first housing structure 121 through the first hinge plate 142. Can be connected.

According to an embodiment, the first plate coupling portion 410 of the third detent structure 400c includes a first mounting hole 413c and a second mounting hole 414c, and the first housing structure 121 ) Can be connected. The first mounting hole 413c and the second mounting hole 414c may be provided in a groove shape (eg, a mounting groove).

The second plate coupling portion 420 of the third detent structure 400c includes a first fixing hole 422_1 or a second fixing hole 422_2, and may be connected to the second housing structure 122. have. The second plate coupling part 420 is spaced apart from a virtual first axis in which the first housing structure 121 rotates and a virtual second axis in which the second housing structure 122 rotates, and a first fixing hole 422_1 ) And a third shaft 601 arranged in parallel with the second fixing hole 422_2.

The first plate coupling portion 410 is a first mounting hole (413c) (or groove, or groove) disposed in an area facing the first fixing hole (422_1) in the unfolded state of the housing structures (121, 122). Opening), a second mounting hole 414c (or groove, or opening) disposed in a region facing the second fixing hole 422_2, and accommodates at least a portion of the second plate coupling portion 410 It has a structure that can be connected to the first housing structure 121.

According to various embodiments, in the unfolded state of the housing structures 121 and 122, the third detent structure 400c is coupled to the first fixing hole 422_1, and the first fixing hole 422_1 and Combined with the first mounting portion 431 and the second fixing hole 422_2 disposed between the first mounting hole 413c, and between the second fixing hole 422_2 and the second mounting hole 414c The second mounting portion 432 to be disposed, located in the second plate coupling portion 420 between the first mounting portion 431 and the second mounting portion 432, the first mounting portion 431 and the It may include an elastic member 430 for pressing the second mounting portion 432 in an outward direction.

The fourth detent structure 400d may include a third plate coupling portion 410_2, a fourth plate coupling portion 420_2, a third mounting portion 431_2, a fourth mounting portion 432_2, or a second elastic member ( 430_2) may be included.

The fourth plate coupling part 420_2 includes a virtual first axis related to the hinge operation of the first housing structure 121, a virtual second axis related to the hinge operation of the second housing structure 122, and the second It includes a third fixing hole (422_3) and a fourth fixing hole (422_4) aligned with respect to the virtual fourth axis 602 spaced apart from the 3 axis 601, and connected to the first housing structure (122). I can. The third plate coupling portion 410_2 is a third mounting hole 413c_2 (or groove or opening) facing the third fixing hole 422_3 in the unfolded state of the housing structures 121 and 122, 4 The second housing includes a fourth mounting hole 414c_2 (or a groove or an opening) facing the fixing hole 422_4 and accommodates at least a portion of the fourth plate coupling portion 420_2, and the second housing It may be connected to the structure 122. The third mounting holes 413c_2 and the fourth mounting holes 414c_2 formed in the fourth plate coupling portion 420_2 may be formed in a mounting groove shape. The third mounting part 431_2 is coupled to the third fixing hole 422_3 in the unfolded state of the housing structures 121 and 122, and the third fixing hole 422_3 and the third mounting hole 413c_2 ) Can be placed between. The fourth mounting part 432_2 is coupled to the fourth fixing hole 422_4 in the unfolded state of the housing structures 121 and 122, and the fourth fixing hole 422_4 and the fourth mounting hole ( 414c_2). The second elastic member 430_2 is located on the fourth plate coupling portion 420_2 between the third mounting portion 431_2 and the fourth mounting portion 432_2, and the third mounting portion 431_2 and the third 4 It may be arranged to press the mounting portion 432_2 in an outward direction.

When a plurality of detent structures according to various embodiments are disposed, a plate coupling portion including an elastic member is disposed differently from a position at which other detent structures are disposed, so that when viewed from the elastic member, the hinge housing 150 The arrangement state of the detent structures in the interior may be arranged in a zigzag. According to various embodiments, the arrangement of the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d may include various types. For example, the second plate coupling portion 420 including the elastic member 430 is connected to the second housing structure 122 through the second hinge plate 142, and the second plate coupling portion 420 The arrangement type in which the first plate coupling portion 410 including the support portions 413 and 414 surrounding at least a portion of the plate is connected to the first housing structure 121 through the first hinge plate 141 is a first type. And the second plate coupling portion 420 including the elastic member 430 is connected to the first housing structure 121 through the first hinge plate 141, and the second plate coupling portion 420 The arrangement type in which the first plate coupling portion 410 including the support portions 413 and 414 surrounding at least a portion is connected to the second housing structure 122 through the second hinge plate 142 is defined as the second type. can do. According to various embodiments, when the first detent structure 400a is disposed in the first type, the second detent structure 400b is disposed in the second type, and the third detent structure 400c is disposed as the first type. It is arranged in a type, and the fourth detent structure 400d may be arranged in a second type. According to various embodiments, the first detent structure 400a is disposed as a first type, the second detent structure 400b is disposed as a first type, and the third detent structure 400c is a second type. And the fourth detent structure 400d may be of the second type. According to various embodiments, when the first detent structure 400a is disposed as a first type, the second detent structure 400b is disposed as a second type, and the third detent structure 400c is disposed as a second type. It is disposed in a type, and the fourth detent structure 400d may be disposed in a first type.

According to various embodiments, the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d may have an arrangement opposite to that of the above-described types. For example, a fourth detent structure 400d is disposed as a first type, a third detent structure 400c is disposed as a second type, and a second detent structure 400b is disposed as a first type. Then, the first detent structure 400a may be disposed in a second type. According to an embodiment, the fourth detent structure 400d is disposed as a first type, the third detent structure 400c is disposed as a first type, and the second detent structure 400b is a second type. And the first detent structure 400a may be disposed in the second type. According to an embodiment, the fourth detent structure 400d is disposed as a second type, the third detent structure 400c is disposed as a first type, and the second detent structure 400b is a first type. And the first detent structure 400a may be disposed in the second type. According to various embodiments, the detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d may all be arranged in the same direction (eg, a first type or a second type).

7A is a view showing another example of a first plate coupling unit according to various embodiments, and FIG. 7B is a view showing an example of a designated angle state of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments.

7A and 7B, according to various embodiments, a first type first plate coupling portion 410_a includes a first coupling body 411, a bridge 412, a first type first support portion 413_1, and / Or may include a first type second support (414_1). The first type first support part 413_1 and the first type second support part 414_1 may include a curved part having a designated length and a designated size. According to an embodiment, the first type first support part 413_1 and the first type second support part 414_1 are in contact with the mounting parts of the second plate coupling part, as shown in FIG. The first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 of the electronic device 880a may be designed so that the angle between the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 is a first designated angle (eg, 120 degrees). The foldable electronic device according to the embodiment may provide a mounting function at a specific angle by maintaining a specified angle within a predetermined pressure. The predetermined pressure may vary depending on the elastic force of the elastic member or the curvature of the mounting portions and the shape of the mounting region.

According to various embodiments, the second type first plate coupling portion 410_b may include a first coupling body 411, a bridge 412, a second type first support portion 413_2, and a second type second support portion 414_2. It may include. The first coupling body 411 and the bridge 412 of the second type first plate coupling portion 410_b may have the same or similar configuration as the coupling body and bridge of the first type first plate coupling portion 410_a. have.

The second type first support part 413_2 and the second type second support part 414_2 may include a curved part of a designated length and a designated size. According to an embodiment, the second type first support part 413_2 and the second type second support part 414_2 are in contact with the mounting parts of the second plate coupling part, as shown in FIG. The first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 of the electronic device 800b may be designed to have a second designated angle (eg, 140 degrees) between the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122. For example, the first type first support part 413_1 (or first type second support part 414_1) may include a first type bent part 413d_1 having a first length L1. The second type first support part 413_2 (or the second type second support part 414_2) has a second length L2 (for example, a second length L2 shorter than the first length L1). It may include a type 2 bent part (413d_2).

According to various embodiments, a temporary fixing angle of the first foldable electronic device 800a including the first type first plate coupling portion 410_a, and a second type including the second type first plate coupling portion 410_b In order to design a different temporary fixing angle of the foldable electronic device 800b, the first type first support part 413_1 (or the first type second support part 414_1) is a first type wing 413b_1 having a first length. The second type first support part 413_2 (or the second type second support part 414_2) may include a second type wing 413b_2 having a second length.

In the illustrated drawing, it is shown that the wings 413b_1 and 413b_2 and the bent portions 413d_1 and 413d_2 have different lengths for each type, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The first foldable electronic device 800a temporarily fixed at a first designated angle and the second foldable electronic device 800b temporarily fixed at a second designated angle include the wings 413b_1 and 413b_2 and the bent portions 413d_1 and 413d_2 At least one of them may be implemented in a different form. In this case, as the time point at which the mounting portions 431 and 432 contact the bent portions 413d_1 and 413d_2 varies according to the length of each of the supporting portions, an angle at which the foldable electronic devices are temporarily fixed may be differently implemented.

8A is a diagram illustrating an example of an impact response structure of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The structure of the detent structure employing the impact response structure described below may be at least one of the plurality of detent structures 400a, 400b, 400c, and 400d described above.

Referring to FIG. 8A, the detent structure employing an impact response structure may include a first plate coupling portion 410 and a second plate coupling portion 420.

According to an embodiment, the first plate coupling portion 410 may have substantially the same structure and configuration as the first plate coupling portion described in FIG. 3A. For example, the first plate coupling part 410 may include a first coupling body 411, a bridge 412, a first support part 413, and a second support part 414.

According to an embodiment, the second plate coupling portion 420 may have the same or similar configuration to the second plate coupling portion described in FIG. 3A except for some configurations. For example, the second plate coupling part 420 may include a second coupling body 421, a mounting body 422, and an elastic member 430. In addition, the second plate coupling portion 420 is disposed inside the mounting body 422 and at least a portion of the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_2 protruding to the outside through the fixing holes formed in the mounting body 422, the It is disposed on one side of the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1, and includes shock absorbing members 441a and 442a that absorb an impact generated while the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1 are in contact with one side of the mounting body 422. I can.

According to an embodiment, the second coupling body 421 may have a certain thickness and width and may be made of a certain material, for example, a metal material. The second coupling body 421 may have the same or similar configuration as the second coupling body described in FIG. 3A.

According to an embodiment, the mounting body 422 extends in a fourth direction (y) from the second coupling body 421, and an elastic member seating portion 422a is formed inside the elastic member 430 , Mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1 and shock absorbing members 441a and 442a may be seated. For example, while the mounting body 422 forms an empty space therein so that the elastic member 430 can be seated, the elastic member 430, the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_2, and the shock absorbing members are It may include an opening opened upward so that the (441a, 442a) can be inserted. Fixing holes 422_1, so that at least a part of the mounting parts 431_1 and 432_2 can protrude to the outside of the mounting body 422 while mounting portions 431_1 and 432_2 are fixed to both side walls of the mounting body 422 422_2) may be disposed.

According to an embodiment, the elastic member 430 may be seated in an inner empty space of the mounting body 422. The elastic member 430 may have a spring shape. As the elastic member 430 is inserted into the mounting body 422 and then disposed to push the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_2 and the shock absorbing members 441a and 442a to both sides, respectively, in FIG. 3A Compared to the described elastic member, it may be formed relatively short.

According to an embodiment, the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_2 are connected to one side of the elastic member 430, and through a first fixing hole 422_1 and a second fixing hole 422_2 formed in the mounting body 422. It may be arranged to partially protrude in the first direction (-x) and the second direction (x). For example, the second mounting portion 432 (or the first mounting portion 431) has a protrusion 432a including a predetermined curved surface, and the diameter of the first fixing hole 422_1 at the bottom of the protrusion 432a A band (432b) provided with a larger diameter and/or a column (432c) inserted into one side of the elastic member 430, and a ring on which the shock absorbing member 442a (or the shock absorbing member 441a) is disposed It may include a groove (432d). Ring grooves 431d and 432d in which the shock absorbing members 441a and 442a are seated may be disposed adjacent to the belt 432b or 431b. The ring-shaped shock absorbing members 441a and 442a may be seated in the ring grooves 431d and 432d.

The shock absorbing members 441a and 442a may be fixed to the ring grooves 431d and 432d formed in front of the belt of the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1. The shock absorbing members 441a and 442a are disposed inside the mounting body 422 and may be disposed inside the mounting body 422 while being disposed adjacent to the belt 432b or 431b of the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1. have. The shock absorbing members 441a and 442a may be at least partially formed of an elastic material, or at least a portion of the shock absorbing members 441a and 442a may be formed of a material capable of absorbing an external shock, such as rubber, soft plastic, fiber, or a composite thereof.

According to an embodiment, the shock absorbing members 441a and 442a are inner surfaces of the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 of the mounting body 422 and the band 432b or 431b of the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1 Arranged between, the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1 are moved to the inside of the mounting body 422 during the detent operation and then return to the original position while the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 inside the mounting body 422 are It is possible to eliminate the impact that occurs during contact with the inner surface. Accordingly, the shock absorbing members 441a and 442a eliminate noise or impact generated when the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1 contact the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 to suppress noise generation, It is possible to prevent damage to the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_1.

8B is a diagram illustrating another example of an impact response structure of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 8B, a detent structure having an impact response structure according to various embodiments may have the same or similar structure except for mounting portions and shock absorbing members compared to the detent structure described in FIG. 8A. According to an embodiment, the detent structure includes a first plate coupling portion 410 and a second plate coupling portion 420, and the second plate coupling portion 420 is a second coupling body 421, elastic The mounting body 422 having the elastic member mounting portion 422a on which the member 430 is mounted, the elastic member 430, and mounting portions 431_2 to which the plurality of shock absorbing members 441b_1, 441b_2, 442b_1, 442b_2 are coupled , 432_2), and fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 formed on one side of the mounting body 422 to expose at least a portion of the mounting portions 431_2 and 432_2 to the outside.

According to an embodiment, the mounting portion 431_2 (or the mounting portion 432_2 or hereinafter described with reference to the mounting portion 432_2) described in FIG. 8B is a strip 432b_1 and a protrusion 432a located at the front end of the pillar 432c. ) A plurality of ring grooves 432d_1 and 432d_2 and an auxiliary band 432b_2 are formed between, and a plurality of shock absorbing members 442b_1 and 442b_2 may be seated in the ring grooves 432d_1 and 432d_2, respectively. In this regard, the mounting portions 431_2 and 432_2 may have a relatively longer length of the protrusion 432a compared to the mounting portions 431_1 and 432_2 described in FIG. 8A. According to various embodiments, the length of the mounting body 422 may be longer than the length of the mounting body described in FIG. 8A. Alternatively, the elastic member 430 seated on the mounting body 422 may be formed to be shorter than the elastic member 430 described in FIG. 8A.

According to various embodiments, at least some of the protrusions 432a of the mounting portions 431_2 and 432_2 on which the shock absorbing members 441b_1, 441b_2, 442b_1, and 442b_2 are mounted are fixed holes formed in the mounting body 422 (422_1, 422_2) It can be located inside. According to an embodiment, at least some of the shock absorbing members 441b_1, 441b_2, 442b_1, and 442b_2 may be located inside the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2. The shock absorbing members 441b_1, 441b_2, 442b_1, 442b_2 may be formed of at least part of an elastic material, or at least part of a material capable of absorbing external shock, such as rubber, soft plastic, fiber, or a composite thereof. I can. Accordingly, as the shock absorbing members 441b_1, 441b_2, 442b_1, and 442b_2 contact the inner walls of the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2, the shock absorbing members 441b_1, 441b_2, 442b_1, 442b_2 are Noise or impact generated by the contact between the mounting portions 431_2 and 432_2 and the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 may be eliminated.

8C is a diagram illustrating another example of a noise prevention structure of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 8C, a detent structure having an impact response structure according to various embodiments may have the same or similar structure except for mounting portions and shock absorbing members compared to the detent structure described in FIG. 8A. According to an embodiment, the detent structure includes a first plate coupling portion 410 and a second plate coupling portion 420, and the second plate coupling portion 420 is a second coupling body 421, elastic The mounting body 422 having the elastic member mounting portion 422a on which the member 430 is mounted, the elastic member 430, the mounting portions 431_3 and 432_3 to which the shock absorbing members 441c and 442c are coupled, the mounting It may include fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 formed on one side of the body 422 to expose at least a portion of the mounting portions 431_3 and 432_3 to the outside.

According to an embodiment, the mounting portion 432_3 (or mounting portion 431_3) described in FIG. 8C includes fixing holes 422_1 formed in the mounting body 422 between the belt 432b and the protrusion 432a, It may include a rail groove (432d_3) formed longer than the length of 422_2). The detent structure is seated in the rail groove 432d_3 formed in the mounting portions 431_3 and 432_3, and the hat-shaped shock absorbing members having an inner opening so as to be in contact with the inner side of the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 (441c, 442c) may be included. Accordingly, while the mounting portions 431_3 and 432_3 are disposed to pass through the inside of the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 and the end of the protrusion 432a is disposed to be exposed to the outside, the shock absorbing members 441c, A portion of the 442c) may be disposed to contact the entire inner surface of the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 and contact at least a portion of the inlet portions of the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2. Accordingly, the shock absorbing members 441c and 442c are moved by a predetermined depth to the inside of the mounting body 422 during the detent operation, and then the original position by the additional detent operation. When restored to, noise generation due to contact between the fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 and the mounting portions 431_3 and 432_3 may be suppressed, and shock may be eliminated.

9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an unfolded state of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 9, when the first housing structure and the second housing structure of the foldable electronic device are placed in an unfolded state, as shown, the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second plate coupling portion 420 are fastened. Can be. For example, the second mounting portion 432 disposed on the second plate coupling portion 420 may be seated in the second mounting hole 414c formed in the first plate coupling portion 410. According to various embodiments, the second mounting hole 414c may be provided as a circular hole, and at least a portion of the second mounting portion 432 inserted into the second mounting hole 414c may be provided in a hemispherical shape. I can.

According to an embodiment, the center 900_1 of the second mounting part 432 and the center 900_2 of the second mounting hole 414c may be disposed to be offset from each other. For example, so that the center 900_1 of the second mounting part 432 is offset in one direction (eg, y-direction) than the center 900_2 of the second mounting hole 414c, the first plate coupling part ( 410) can be designed eccentrically. In the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device, as the protruding portion is disposed so that the semi-spherical second mounting portion 432 is skewed in one direction, the second mounting portion 432 is an inner peripheral surface of the second mounting hole 414c By being adjacent to, the third detent structure 400c can prevent the second mounting portion 432 of the first plate coupling portion 410 from proceeding in the rotation direction 909. As another example, the third detent structure 400c is the housing structures 121 and 122 so that the foldable electronic device is not further bent outward (for example, in the z direction) (so that the display is not bent outward) in an unfolded state. Can support. For example, when the electronic device is hinged, a force is applied in the direction of 900, thereby implementing the detent in a firm 180 degree unfolding state.

10A is a view showing an example of a cross-section of a detent structure arrangement in a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments, and FIG. 10B is a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments It is a view showing an example of the arrangement cross-sectional perspective view.

10A and 10B, in a second state of the foldable electronic device 100 (eg, a folded state in which the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 face each other), the first hinge plate The first plate coupling portion 410 coupled to the 141 may be disposed in the hinge housing 150 to be erected in one direction (eg, z direction). Similarly, the second plate coupling portion 420 coupled to the second hinge plate 142 may be disposed in the hinge housing 150 to be erected in one direction. Accordingly, the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second hinge plate 412 may be disposed to face each other at positions spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval. The display 110 may be disposed between the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 121 with the central area (eg, the central area 53 of FIG. 2) folded.

FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross section of a detent structure arrangement in a foldable electronic device in a certain angle state according to various embodiments, and FIG. 11B is a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a certain angle state according to various embodiments. It is a view showing an example of the arrangement cross-sectional perspective view.

11A and 11B, in order to change the state of the foldable electronic device 100 from the folded state to the unfolded state at a certain angle (for example, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122), In a state rotated by an angle), the first plate coupling portion 410 coupled to the first hinge plate 141 forms a y-axis and a first angle (eg, about 90 degrees) within the hinge housing 150. In the state, the y-axis and a second angle different from the first angle (eg, about 45 degrees) may be formed. Similarly, the second plate coupling portion 420 coupled to the second hinge plate 142 is the y-axis in the state of forming a y-axis and a first angle (eg, about 90 degrees) within the hinge housing 150 And a second angle different from the first angle (eg, about 45 degrees). According to various embodiments, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 may be unfolded by about 45 degrees (or about -45 degrees) in a direction opposite to each other in a folded state. Correspondingly, the inner angle between the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second plate coupling portion 420 may be about 90 degrees. In this operation, the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second plate coupling portion 420 may be spaced apart at a predetermined interval, and may have an inclined state without contacting each other. The display 110 may be disposed between the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 121 in a state where the central area (central area 53 of FIG. 2) is folded and unfolded in a specified angular range. The first plate coupling portion 410 connected to the first housing structure 121 through the first hinge plate 141 rotates in a specified angular range (eg, 0 to 90 degrees) with respect to the first virtual axis 1001 can do. The second plate coupling portion 420 connected to the second housing structure 122 through the second hinge plate 142 rotates in a specified angular range (eg, 180 to 90 degrees) with respect to the second virtual axis 1002 can do. The first virtual axis 1001 and the second virtual axis 1002 may be formed virtually above the first hinge plate 141 and the second hinge plate 142.

12A is a view showing an example of a cross section of a detent structure arrangement in a foldable electronic device in a designated angle state according to various embodiments, and FIG. 12B is a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a designated angle state according to various embodiments. It is a view showing an example of the arrangement cross-sectional perspective view.

12A and 12B, the foldable electronic device 100 is in a specified angular state (for example, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are hinged, and the foldable electronic device 100 is shown in FIG. 11A and 11B), the first plate coupling portion 410 coupled to the first hinge plate 141 is in the third direction in one direction (eg, z direction) within the hinge housing 150. It can be placed in an inclined state by an angle (eg, about 60 degrees or about 70 degrees) specified by (eg -y). Similarly, the second plate coupling portion 420 coupled to the second hinge plate 142 is at an angle (e.g., about -60) in the hinge housing 150 from one direction to a fourth direction (e.g., y). Degrees or about -70 degrees). According to various embodiments, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are folded at 60 degrees and -60 degrees (or 70 degrees) in a direction opposite to each other in a folded state (for example, in FIGS. 10A and 10B). And -70 degrees). Correspondingly, the inner angle between the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second plate coupling portion 420 may be 120 degrees (or 140 degrees). In this operation, at least a portion of the first plate coupling portion 410 and the second plate coupling portion 420 may be in contact with each other. For example, the curved portions 413d and 414d of the first plate coupling portion 410 may be in contact with the mounting portions 431 and 432 of the second plate coupling portion 420. In this state, due to the elastic force of the elastic member 430 of the second plate coupling portion 420 and the friction between the mounting portions 431 and 432 and the bent portions 413d and 414d, the foldable electronic device 100 is in its current state. Can be temporarily fixed. When the display 110 is disposed on the housing structures 121 and 122, the display 110 corresponds to the disposition angle of the housing structures 121 and 122 at an angle greater than the unfolded angle of FIGS. 11A and 11B. It can have an unfolded state.

13A is a diagram illustrating an example of an arrangement cross-section of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a first state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 13B is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-sectional perspective view of an arrangement of a detent structure in a foldable electronic device in a first state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

13A and 13B, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a first state (for example, the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are unfolded), the first hinge plate 141 The first plate coupling portion 410 coupled to the second plate coupling portion 420 and the second plate coupling portion 420 coupled to the second hinge plate 142 may be coupled and may be disposed within the hinge housing 150. Mounting portions 431 and 432 of the second plate coupling portion 420 may be seated in the mounting holes 413c and 414c of the first plate coupling portion 410. As the housing structures 121 and 122 have a 180 degree unfolded state, the display 110 may have a 180 degree unfolded state corresponding thereto.

14 is a diagram illustrating an example of another form of a detent structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 14, the detent structure 1200 according to an embodiment may include a first plate coupling part 1210 and a second plate coupling part 1220.

The first plate coupling part 1210 may include a first coupling body 1211, a first support part 1213 and/or a second support part 1214.

According to an embodiment, the first coupling body 1211 has a predetermined thickness and surface, and a first hinge plate 141 (or a second hinge plate 142) in the center thereof (for example, the hinge plate ( 141, 142)), and may include a plate seating portion 1211a that is formed to be stepped from the periphery. A plate coupling hole 1211a_1 used for hinge plate coupling may be disposed at one side of the plate seating portion 1211a. The first coupling body 1211 may include at least one coupling protrusion 1211a_2 that guides the hinge plate while being coupled to the hinge plate.

According to an embodiment, the first support part 1213 may extend in one direction (-y) from an end of the first coupling body 1211 at one side (eg, in the -x direction). The first support part 1213 is, for example, a first wing 1213a having a certain width and extending in one direction (-y), and extending in one direction (-y) from an end of the first wing 1213a and inside ( For example, it may include a first stepped step 1213b (or unevenness) raised by a height designated as x direction). The first stepped portion 1213b is in contact with the first mounting portion 1231 of the second plate coupling portion 1220 through a rotation operation, so that the first mounting portion 1231 can smoothly support the inner movement. It can have a certain inclination from the top side (eg, z direction) to the bottom side (eg, -z direction).

According to an embodiment, the second support part 1214 may extend in one direction (-y) from an end of the other side (eg, the x direction) of the first coupling body 1211. The second support part 1214 is, for example, a second wing 1214a having a predetermined width and extending in one direction (-y), and extending in one direction (-y) from the end of the second wing 1214a and inside ( For example, a second stepped step 1214b (or unevenness) raised by a height designated as -x direction) may be included. The second support part 1214 may be disposed to face the first support part 1213 and to be symmetrical. As the second stepped part 1214b comes into contact with the second mounting part 1232 of the second plate coupling part 1220 through a rotating operation similar to the first stepped part 1213b, the second mounting part 1232 It can have a certain inclination from the top side (eg, z direction) to the bottom side (eg, -z direction) to smoothly support the inward movement of.

According to an embodiment, the second plate coupling portion 1220 may include a second coupling body 1221, a mounting body 1222, an elastic member 1230, and mounting portions 1231 and 1232. The second coupling body 1221, the mounting body 1222, and the elastic member 1230 may have substantially the same or similar configuration as the second coupling body, the mounting body, and the elastic member described in FIG. 4A. For example, the second coupling body 1221 may include a plate seating part 1221a, a plate coupling hole 1221a_1, or at least one coupling protrusion 1221a_2.

According to an embodiment, the mounting portions 1231 and 1232 extend from the column 1232_1 and the column 1232_1, and a band 1232_2 fixed to the fixing holes formed in the mounting body 1222, or the The protrusion 1232_3 (or body) has a narrower side than the cross section of the band 1232_2, but the ends have a certain inclination to both sides and protrude CAM-shaped (or mountain-shaped, or at least some cross-sections have triangular peaks). ) Can be included. The protrusion 1232_3 may be moved inside the first plate coupling portion 1210 while being in contact with the surfaces of the stepped jaws 1213b and 1214b. Since the detent structure 1200 having the above-described structure does not form separate mounting holes in the support portions 1213 and 1214, it is possible to further simplify the device manufacturing.

According to various embodiments, at least one of the first plate coupling portion 1210, the second plate coupling portion 1220, and the mounting portions 1231 and 1232 may be entirely or at least partially made of a non-metal material or a metal material. Can be formed. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the first plate coupling portion 1210 including a portion to which the mounting portions 1231 and 1232 are in contact may be formed of a metal material for rigidity. At least some regions of the mounting holes through which the mounting portions 1231 and 1232 are mounted may be formed of a metal material for rigidity and wear resistance.

15A is a view showing an example of another form of a detent structure according to various embodiments, and FIG. 15B is a view showing an example of a folded state of a detent structure based on a cut line D-D′ of FIG. 15A.

15A and 15B, according to various embodiments, the detent structures 1600a and 1600b may be connected to the first hinge plate 141 and the second hinge plate 142. For example, the first detent structure 1600a includes a first plate coupling portion 1610 connected to the first hinge plate 141 and a second plate coupling portion 1620 connected to the second hinge plate 142 It may include. At least a portion of the first plate coupling portion 1610 and the second plate coupling portion 1620 may be formed of a metal material or a non-metal material (eg, plastic).

According to an embodiment, the first plate coupling portion 1610 is coupled to the first hinge plate 141 and has a long panel shape in one side (for example, the first axis (x) or the second axis (-x)). Of the first basic body 1611, a first wing 1612a and a second wing 1612b extending in a third axis (-y) direction from both sides of the first basic body 1611, and the first wing ( 1612a), a first mounting portion 1613a extending vertically in the upper (z) direction, or a second mounting portion 1613b extending vertically in the upper (z) direction from the second wing 1612b. I can. The first wing 1612a and the second wing 1612b may be symmetrically disposed with respect to a third axis (-y axis). The first mounting portion 1613a and the second mounting portion 1613b may be disposed symmetrically with respect to a third axis (-y axis). A first coupling hole 1615 used for coupling with the first hinge plate 141 (or the second hinge plate 142) may be formed in the first basic body 1611. A first groove 1614a used for fastening with the second plate coupling portion 1620 may be formed in the first mounting portion 1613a. One surface of the first groove 1614a may be formed to protrude from the periphery. A second groove 1614b used for fastening with the second plate coupling portion 1620 may be formed in the second mounting portion 1613b. One surface of the second groove 1614b may be formed to protrude from the periphery. The first groove 1614a and the second groove 1614b may be disposed to face each other. At least a portion of the first groove 1614a and the second groove 1614b may include a through-hole through which the front and rear portions are passed, or a portion of the protruding shape of the grooves may be removed to form at least a portion of the hole.

According to an embodiment, the second plate coupling part 1620 is coupled to the second hinge plate 142 (or the first hinge plate 141), and one side in one direction (for example, the first axis (x)) Alternatively, a second basic body 1621 having a long panel shape in a second axis (-x)), a bridge 1624 extending from both sides of the second basic body 1621 in the direction of the fourth axis (y), and the bridge ( It may include a third mounting portion 1621a and/or a fourth mounting portion 1621b extending in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the bridge 1624 (eg, z-axis direction) on both sides of the 1624. A second coupling hole 1623 used for coupling with the second hinge plate 142 may be formed on one side of the second basic body 1621. A third groove 1622a coupled to the first groove 1614a formed in the first mounting portion 1613a may be formed in the third mounting portion 1621a. In an embodiment, the size of the third groove 1622a may be larger than the size of the first groove 1614a. A fourth groove 1622b that is fastened to the second groove 1614b formed in the second mounting portion 1613b may be formed in the fourth mounting portion 1621b. In an embodiment, the size of the fourth groove 1622b may be larger than the size of the second groove 1614b. The third groove 1622a and the fourth groove 1622b may be disposed to face each other. At least one of the third and fourth grooves 1622a and 1622b may be formed as a hole from which at least a portion has been removed. For example, a portion of the mounting portions of the third and fourth grooves 1622a and 1622b that protrudes outward may be maintained, and an upper end of the remaining protrusion may be removed to form a hole.

When the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state (for example, when the first hinge plate 141 and the second hinge plate 142 are arranged side by side), the third mounting portion 1621a and the fourth mounting portion ( 1621b) may be disposed between the first mounting portion 1613a and the second mounting portion 1613b. For example, the interval between the third mounting portion 1621a and the fourth mounting portion 1621b may be formed to be shorter than the interval between the first mounting portion 1613a and the second mounting portion 1613b. have. In an embodiment, the first to fourth mounting portions 1613a to 1621b may have the same or similar thickness.

When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state (for example, when the first hinge plate 141 and the second hinge plate 142 are disposed to face each other), the first plate coupling portion 1610 is a first hinge plate The second plate coupling portion 1620 may be connected to 141 and disposed to face each other while being connected to the second hinge plate 142. Accordingly, the first mounting portion 1613a is disposed to be spaced apart from the third mounting portion 1621a by a predetermined interval, and the second mounting portion 1613b is disposed to be spaced apart from the fourth mounting portion 1621b by a predetermined interval. I can. The first to fourth mounting portions 1613a, 1613b, 1621a, 1621b rotate by a specified angle within the hinge housing 150, and the mutual grooves 1614a, 1614b, 1622a, 1622b are fastened or separated. I can.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the second detent structure 1600b may be disposed to have the same or different direction as that of the first detent structure 1600a. For example, the first plate coupling portion 1610 of the second detent structure 1600b is connected to the second hinge plate 142, and the second plate coupling portion 1620 of the second detent structure 1600b ) May be connected to the first hinge plate 141.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the hinge module 200 according to an embodiment includes a hinge housing 150 and a detent structure 1600a mounted on the hinge housing 150, and the detent structure The first plate coupling portion 1610 connected to the silver first housing structure (eg, the first housing structure 121 in FIG. 2 ), and the second housing structure (eg, the second housing structure 122 in FIG. 2) ) And a second plate coupling portion 1620 connected to the first plate coupling portion, wherein the first plate coupling portion extends perpendicularly to the first basic body at both ends of the first basic body 1611 and the first basic body. 1 wing (1612a) and a second wing (1612b), a first mounting portion (1613a) extending perpendicular to the first wing, and a second mounting portion (1613b) extending perpendicular to the second wing, The second plate coupling portion 1620 includes a second basic body 1621, a bridge 1624 connected to the second basic body, and a third mounting portion 1621a extending perpendicular to the bridge at both edges of the bridge. And a fourth mounting portion 1621b, wherein the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion have a first groove 1614a and a second groove 1614b formed on opposite surfaces thereof, respectively, and the third mounting portion And a third groove (1622a) and a fourth groove (1622b) respectively formed on a surface facing the fourth mounting portion, and when the first housing structure and the housing structure are unfolded, the first groove is the third groove. And the second groove may be fastened to the fourth groove.

16A is a view showing an example of an exploded perspective view of a third hinge structure of a foldable electronic device in a second state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and FIG. 16B is a diagram illustrating an arrangement area of a third hinge structure of the foldable electronic device in a first state It is a diagram showing an example of a cross section.

16A and 16B, according to various embodiments of the present invention, the main brackets 41, 1412, and 1411 of the third hinge structure 40 (for example, the third hinge structure 300 of FIG. 3A) An insertion space surrounded by a plurality of inner walls is formed, and the inner bracket 42 is inserted into the insertion space, thereby preventing the assembled parts from being removed even if an impact is applied to the electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIG. 2 ). And, by reducing the number of parts, the rate of failure or defects can be reduced.

To this end, the third hinge structure 40 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure includes an insertion space 415 surrounded by a plurality of inner walls in the third hinge structure 40 connecting a plurality of housings of an electronic device. A plurality of main brackets 41 including a plurality of inner brackets (42, 1421, 1422), which are respectively inserted into the insertion space 415 to rotate along a certain rotation path, and include internal gears inside the shaft ( The gears of the shaft 43 formed along the outer circumferential surface of the rod of 43 are meshed with the internal gears, respectively, and include a plurality of main shafts (1431, 1432) that rotate together when the plurality of inner brackets 42 rotate. I can.

The main bracket 41 is fixed to the hinge housing 150, becomes a body of the third hinge structure 40, and other parts are assembled. According to various embodiments, the main bracket 41 includes an insertion space 415 surrounded by a plurality of inner walls. In one embodiment, two main brackets 41 may be formed, but are not limited thereto and may be formed in various numbers such as three or more.

The inner bracket 42 is inserted into the insertion space 415 included in the main bracket 41 and fixed to the first and second housings 121 and 122, respectively, so that the first and second housing structures 121 and 122 Rotate According to various embodiments, an internal gear is included therein. Two inner brackets 42 may be formed as shown, but are not limited thereto and may be formed in various numbers such as three or more.

The main shaft 43 is formed with a gear along the outer circumferential surface of the rod of the elongated shaft 43, and meshes with the internal gear. And when the inner bracket 42 rotates, it can rotate together. Two main shafts 43 may be formed as shown, but are not limited thereto and may be formed in various numbers according to the number of inner brackets 42.

The hinge structure 40 according to various embodiments may further include idle gears 44, 1441, and 1442. The idle gear 44 meshes with the gear of the shaft 43 and may connect a plurality of main shafts 43 to each other. Accordingly, the rotational power of the first main shaft 1431 can be transmitted to the second main shaft 1432. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the hinge structure 40 may not include the idle gear 44. In this case, a plurality of main shafts 43 may be directly engaged with each other and formed.

According to various embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16, an insertion space 415 surrounded by a plurality of inner walls is formed in the main brackets 1411 and 1412 of the third hinge structure 40, and the inner brackets 1421 and 1422 ) May be inserted into the insertion space 415. For example, the plurality of inner walls includes a pair of inner walls, wherein the pair of inner walls are disposed on both sides of the inner brackets 1421 and 1422 in the direction of the rotation axis (A.R.I), respectively, and may be formed to face each other. When the first inner bracket 1421 rotates, the first internal gear 4241, the first main shaft 1431, the first idle gear 1441, the second idle gear 1442, and the second main shaft 1432 , Rotation power is transmitted to the second internal gear 4242, or the second inner bracket 1422 may also rotate.

17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of FIG. 16B of a third hinge structure 40 according to various embodiments.

16A to 17, an electronic device (eg, the electronic device 100 of FIG. 2) includes a first housing structure 121 (eg, the first housing structure 121 of FIG. 2) and a second housing. The structures 122 (eg, the second housing structure 122 of FIG. 2) may be connected to be rotatable with respect to each other. For example, if the user rotates the first or second housing structures 121 and 122 in order to fold the electronic device in the unfolded state, the first or second housing structures 121 and 122 and a plate (for example, The inner bracket 42 fixed through the hinge plates 141 and 142 of FIG. 2 may rotate along a certain rotation path around the rotation axis ARI. Since the inner bracket 42 is fixed to the first and second housing structures 121 and 122, respectively, the rotation path of the inner bracket 42 is folding or unfolding of the first and second housing structures 121 and 122. It may correspond to the path to be. As another example, the rotation axis ARI of the inner bracket 42 coincides with the rotation axis of the first and second housing structures 121 and 122 fixed thereto, and the axis of symmetry of the first and second housings 21 and 12 It can be parallel to (AS).

According to an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, a circle having a predetermined length as a radius may be drawn around the axis of rotation A.R.I of the inner bracket 42. In this case, the lower surface of the inner bracket 42 may have an arc shape existing on the circle in order to minimize interference when the inner bracket 42 rotates. For example, the lower surface of the inner bracket 42 may have an arc shape centered on the axis of rotation A.R.I of the inner bracket 42.

When the inner bracket 42 rotates, the main shaft 43 may also rotate. However, the rotation axis A.M of the main shaft 43 coincides with the central axis of the main shaft 43 and may be different from the rotation axis A.R.I of the inner bracket 42. Therefore, when the inner bracket 42 rotates, the inner bracket 42 can move from the main bracket 41 so that the upper surface fixed to the plate 5 has a certain angle. On the other hand, the main shaft 43 can rotate (rotation) without moving from the main bracket 41. Accordingly, when the inner bracket 42 rotates, the main shaft 43 can be moved relative to the inner bracket 42.

The inner bracket 42 may include a moving space 1426 in which the main shaft 43 can move. In this case, the rotation path of the inner bracket 42 corresponds to a movement path in which the main shaft 43 moves inside the inner bracket 42, and only the direction may be opposite. Accordingly, the moving space 1426 may also have an arc shape centered on the axis of rotation A.R.I of the inner bracket 42.

The inner bracket 42 may include internal gears 4241 and 4242 therein. The internal gears 4241 and 4242 may be engaged with a gear of the main shaft 43. Accordingly, when the inner bracket 42 rotates, the internal gears 4241 and 4242 may rotate the main shaft 43. In this case, as shown in FIG. 17, the internal gear 4241 may have an arc shape centered on the axis of rotation (A.R.I 1 or A.R.I 2) of the inner bracket 42.

The gear teeth of the internal gears 4241 and 4242 may be formed to protrude toward the moving space 1426. According to various embodiments, the gear teeth of the internal gears 4241 and 4242 are formed to protrude in the radial direction centered on the rotation axis (ARI 1 or ARI 2) of the inner bracket 42 at the inner diameter corner of the moving space 1426. I can. However, it is not limited thereto, and the gear teeth of the internal gears 4241 and 4242 may be formed protruding in a direction toward the rotation axis (ARI 1 or ARI 2) of the inner bracket 42 at the outer diameter corner of the moving space 1426. .

According to various embodiments, the rotation axis ARI 1 of the first housing structure 121 and the first inner bracket 1421 is the same, and the rotation axis of the second housing structure 122 and the second inner bracket 1422 ( ARI 2) can also be the same. The rotation shafts A.R.I 1 and A.R.I 2 of the first inner bracket 1421 and the second inner bracket 1422 may be different from each other. If the rotation shafts A.R.I 1 and A.R.I 2 are identical to each other, interference may occur between the first inner bracket 1421 and the second inner bracket 1422 while rotating. Accordingly, rotation axes of the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 may also be different from each other.

18 is a cross-sectional view of a third hinge structure 40 taken along line B-B' of FIG. 16 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 16A to 18, when the first housing structure 121 rotates, the first housing structure 121 and a plate (for example, the hinge plates 141 and 142 of FIG. 2) are fixed. 1 The inner bracket 1421 can be rotated. Then, the first internal gear 4241 included in the inside of the first inner bracket 1421 is engaged with the gear of the first main shaft 1431, so that the first main shaft 1431 may be rotated.

According to various embodiments, as shown in FIG. 18, the first main shaft 1431, the first idle gear 1441, the second idle gear 1442, and the second main shaft 1432 may be engaged in sequence. have. Accordingly, rotational power of the first main shaft 1431 may be transmitted to the first idle gear 1441, the second idle gear 1442, and the second main shaft 1432.

For example, if the user rotates the first or second housing structures 121 and 122 in order to fold the electronic device in the unfolded state, the first internal gear 4241 of the first inner bracket 1421 is , Based on the bar shown in FIG. 18, the first main shaft 1431 may be rotated in a clockwise direction. In addition, the first main shaft 1431 transmits the rotational power transmitted from the first internal gear 4241 to the first idle gear 1441, and the first idle gear 1441 based on the bar shown in FIG. It can be rotated counterclockwise. In addition, the first idle gear 1441 transmits the rotational power transmitted from the first main shaft 1431 to the second idle gear 1442, and the second idle gear 1442 based on the bar shown in FIG. It can be rotated clockwise. In addition, the second idle gear 1442 transmits the rotational power received from the first idle gear 1441 to the second main shaft 1432, and the second main shaft 1432 based on the bar shown in FIG. It can be rotated counterclockwise.

The second main shaft 1432 may transmit rotational power transmitted from the second idle gear 1442 to the second internal gear 4242 of the second inner bracket 1422. Accordingly, the second housing structure 122 fixed through the second inner bracket 1422 and the plate (eg, the hinge plates 141 and 142 of FIG. 2) may rotate.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first hinge structure or a second hinge structure of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 20A is a view of the hinge structure of FIG. 19 viewed from above, and FIG. 20B is a view of FIG. 19. Is an exploded perspective view of the hinge structure of FIG. 20C is a view showing a cross-section of the hinge structure of FIG. 19 and the hinge plate coupled state.

19 to 20C, the first hinge structure 200a (or the second hinge structure) according to various embodiments includes a first hinge bracket 1521 and a second hinge plate 141 connected to the first hinge plate 141. A second hinge bracket 1522 connected to the hinge plate 142, or a center bracket 1541 on which the first hinge bracket 1521 and the second hinge bracket 1522 are mounted may be included.

The center bracket 1541 has a predetermined length and width so that it can be seated on the hinge housing (eg, the hinge housing 150 of FIG. 2 ), and at least a part of the center bracket 1541 corresponds to the inner surface of the hinge housing 150. It may include a curved surface. The center bracket 1541 includes a first rail part 1541a (e.g., rail part 1541a in FIG. 20B) formed to be hinged after the first hinge bracket 1521 is seated, and the second hinge bracket 1522 A second rail part 1541b (e.g., the rail part 1541b of FIG. 20B) formed to be hinged after the) is seated, or the first rail part 1541a is formed on one side and the second rail part 1541a is formed on the other side. It may include a bracket body 1541 on which the rail portion 1541b is formed.

The first hinge bracket 1521 may be provided in a semi-circular cross section, and may be inserted into the first rail part 1541 in a first rotation direction and then disposed to hinge in a first rotation direction. At this time, the first hinge bracket 1521 by the first locking projection 4141 formed on the center bracket 1541 (for example, the locking projection 4141 in FIGS. 20A and 20B) is at least a specified angle in the first rotation direction. By operating so as not to rotate, the first hinge bracket 1521 may not be separated from the center bracket 1541.

The second hinge bracket 1522 may have substantially the same structure and size as the first hinge bracket 1521 and may be formed. For example, the second hinge bracket 1522 may be provided in a semi-circular cross-section, and may be inserted into the second rail part 1541 in a second rotation direction, and then disposed to hinge in a second rotation direction. At this time, the second hinge bracket 1522 by the second locking projection 4142 formed on the center bracket 1541 (for example, the locking projection 4142 in FIGS. 20A and 20B) is greater than or equal to an angle specified in the second rotation direction. By operating so as not to rotate, the second hinge bracket 1522 may not be separated from the center bracket 1541.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic device (eg, the electronic device 100 of FIG. 3) according to an embodiment includes a hinge housing (eg, a hinge housing 150), and a hinge structure (eg, a hinge structure) disposed on the hinge housing. 300), a first housing structure (eg, a first housing structure 121) rotating about a first axis (eg, axis ARI 2 in FIG. 17) extending along the hinge structure, and a first housing structure parallel to the first axis. A second housing structure (eg, a second housing structure 122) rotating about two axes (eg, axis ARI 1 in FIG. 17), a first region disposed on the first housing structure, and disposed on the second housing structure A flexible display (eg, the display 110 of FIG. 2) including a second area, and a first detent structure (eg, a third detent structure 400c of FIG. 3) disposed on the hinge housing, wherein the The first detent structure is spaced apart from the first axis and the second axis and arranged parallel to a third axis (eg, the third axis 601 in FIG. 6). 1 fixing hole (422_1) and a second through hole (eg, the second fixing hole (422_2) in FIG. 6) and connected to the first housing structure (eg, the second plate coupling portion of FIG. 6) (420)), in the unfolded state, a first groove or a second opening facing the first through hole and the second through hole (for example, the first mounting hole 431c in FIG. 6) and a second groove, respectively, A second member including a second opening (for example, the first mounting hole 432c in FIG. 6), having a structure for accommodating a part of the first member, and connected to the second housing structure (for example, 1 plate coupling portion 410), in the unfolded state, coupled to the first through hole, and disposed between the first through hole and the first groove or the first opening (for example, the first ball in FIG. 6 ). Mounting portion 431), in the unfolded state, coupled to the second through hole, and disposed between the second through hole and the second groove or the second opening (for example, the second mounting portion of FIG. 6 (43 2)) and an elastic member positioned on the first member between the first ball and the second ball to press the first ball and the second ball in an outward direction (for example, the elastic member 430 of FIG. 6) ) Can be included.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the electronic device further includes a second detent structure (eg, the fourth detent structure 400d of FIG. 6) positioned in the hinge housing, and the second detent structure is in a folded state. In, a third through hole (for example, in FIG. 6) is spaced apart from the first shaft, the second shaft, and the third shaft and arranged parallel to a fourth shaft (for example, the fourth shaft 602 in FIG. 6). A third member including a third fixing hole 422_3) and a fourth through hole (eg, the fourth fixing hole 422_4 in FIG. 6) and connected to the second housing structure (eg, a third plate combination of FIG. 6) Part 410_2), a third groove or a third opening (for example, the third mounting hole 413c_2 in FIG. 6) and a fourth groove facing the third through hole and the fourth through hole, respectively, in an unfolded state Or a fourth member including a fourth opening (eg, the fourth mounting hole 414c_2 in FIG. 6), having a structure for accommodating a part of the third member, and connected to the first housing structure (eg, The fourth plate coupling part 420_2), in the unfolded state, is coupled to the third through hole, and is disposed between the third through hole and the third groove or the third opening (for example, the third ball in FIG. 6 ). 3 Mounting part 431_2), in the unfolded state, coupled to the fourth through hole, and disposed between the fourth through hole and the fourth groove or the fourth opening (for example, the fourth mounting of FIG. 6 Hole 432_2) and a second elastic member positioned on a third member between the third ball and the fourth ball to press the third ball and the fourth ball in an outward direction. It may include 2 elastic members (430_2).

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the foldable electronic device (eg, the foldable electronic device 100 of FIG. 2) is a foldable housing (eg, the hinge module 200 of FIG. 2 ), and has a hinge structure (eg, the third hinge of FIG. 2 ). Structure 300), connected to the hinge structure, a first surface (e.g., the first surface 121a in FIG. 2), a second surface facing in a direction opposite to the first surface (e.g., the second surface of FIG. 121b)), the first housing structure (eg, the first housing structure 121 of FIG. 2), connected to the hinge structure, and a third side (eg, the third side 122a of FIG. 2), the And a second housing structure (eg, the second housing structure 122 in FIG. 2) including a fourth side (eg, the fourth side 122b in FIG. 2) facing away from the third side, the The first housing structure may be folded with the second housing structure around the hinge structure, the first surface faces the third surface in a folded state, and the first surface in an unfolded state It faces in the same direction as the third surface, and between a folded state and an unfolded state, the first housing structure is rotatable about a first axis extending along the hinge structure (eg, rotation axis ARI 1 in FIG. 17). And, the second housing structure is a foldable housing rotatable about a second axis parallel to the first axis (eg, rotation axis ARI 2 in FIG. 17), and a first region (eg : A first area 51 of FIG. 2 and a second area disposed on the second housing structure (for example, the second area 52 of FIG. 2) are included, and the first area and the second area are together with the first area A first detent structure (eg, a detent structure of FIG. 2) disposed on a surface and a flexible display (eg, display 110 of FIG. 2) and a hinge housing (eg, hinge housing 150 of FIG. 2) forming the surface and the third surface 400c) is spaced apart from the first axis and the second axis, A first through hole (eg, first fixing hole 422_1 in FIG. 6) and a second through hole (eg, second fixing hole 422_2 in FIG. 6) aligned along the third axis (eg, virtual axis 601 in FIG. 6). ) And connected to the first housing structure (for example, the second plate coupling part 420 of FIG. 6 ), a first groove or a first opening facing the first through hole and the second through hole ( Example: including a first mounting hole 413c of FIG. 6 and a second groove or a second opening (eg, the second mounting hole 414c of FIG. 6), connected to the second housing structure, and in the unfolded state, 1 A second member formed to receive a part of the member (for example, the first plate coupling portion 410 of FIG. 6 ), and coupled to the first through hole, and in the unfolded state, the first through hole and the first groove or the first A first ball disposed between the openings (for example, the first mounting portion 431 of FIG. 6 ), coupled to the second through hole, and disposed between the second through hole and the second groove or the second opening in the unfolded state A second ball (for example, the second mounting portion 432 in FIG. 6) and located on the first member between the first ball and the second ball to move the first ball and the second ball outward It may include a first detent structure including an elastic member (for example, the elastic member 430 of FIG. 6) to be pressed.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the foldable electronic device further includes a second detent structure (for example, a detent structure 400d of FIG. 6) positioned in the hinge housing, and the second detent structure is in a folded state, the A third through-hole (for example, a third fixing hole in FIG. 6) that is spaced apart from the first axis, the second axis and the third axis and aligned along a parallel fourth axis (eg, virtual axis 602 in FIG. 6) 422_3) and a fourth through hole (eg, the fourth fixing hole 422_4 in FIG. 6) and connected to the second housing structure (eg, the fourth plate coupling portion 420_2 in FIG. 6), the third through hole Holes and a third groove or a third opening facing the fourth through hole (eg, the third mounting hole 413c_2 in FIG. 6) and a fourth groove or fourth opening (eg, the fourth mounting hole 414c_2 in FIG. 6) A fourth member connected to the first housing structure and formed to receive a portion of the third member in an unfolded state (for example, a third plate coupling portion 410_2 in FIG. 6), and coupled to the third through hole And, in the unfolded state, the third ball disposed between the third through hole and the third groove or the third opening (for example, the third mounting portion 431_2 in FIG. 6), coupled with the fourth through hole, and in an unfolded state In, the fourth ball disposed between the fourth through hole and the fourth groove or the fourth opening (for example, the fourth mounting portion 432_2 in FIG. 6) and the third member between the third ball and the fourth ball And a second elastic member (eg, the second elastic member 430_2 of FIG. 6) for pressing the third ball and the fourth ball in an outward direction.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the first housing structure (eg, the first housing structure 121 of FIG. 2) and the second housing structure (eg, the first housing structure 122 of FIG. 2) according to an embodiment are hinged. The hinge module (eg, the hinge module 200 of FIG. 2) connected to each other includes a hinge housing (eg, the hinge housing 150 of FIG. 2), and a first detent structure (eg, the detent structure of FIG. 2) seated on the hinge housing. 400c), wherein the first detent structure includes a first plate coupling portion connected to the first housing structure (eg, a first plate coupling portion 410 in FIG. 3B), and a second detent structure connected to the second housing structure. Includes a plate coupling portion (for example, the first plate coupling portion 420 of FIG. 3B), and the first plate coupling portion is connected to a first coupling body (for example, the first coupling body 411 of FIG. 3B) and the first coupling body. And are arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance, and include support portions (for example, support portions 413 and 414 of FIG. 3B) each having a mounting area at a predetermined position, and the second plate coupling portion is a second coupling body (eg, FIG. 3B). The second coupling body 421 of the, a mounting body connected to the second coupling body (for example, a mounting body 422 in FIG. 3B), and fixing holes formed on both sides of the mounting body (for example, fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 in FIG. 3B) ), and the mounting portions (e.g., mounting portions 431 and 432 of FIG. 3B) mounted on the fixing holes, and the first housing structure and the second housing structure in an unfolded state. It may include an elastic member (eg, an elastic member 430 of FIG. 3B) that presses the mounting portions in the direction of the mounting regions.

According to various embodiments, the hinge module further includes a second detent structure 400d, and the second detent structure has the same structure as the first plate coupling part, and a third plate coupled to the second housing structure A fourth plate coupling portion having the same structure as the portion (eg, the third plate coupling portion 410_2 of FIG. 6) and the second plate coupling portion and connected to the first housing structure (eg, the fourth plate coupling portion of FIG. 6) 420_2).

According to various embodiments, the first plate coupling portion further includes a bridge extending from the first coupling body (eg, a bridge 412 in FIG. 3B), and the support portions are a first support portion extending from the bridge in a first direction. (Eg, a first support part 413 of FIG. 3B) and a second support part extending in a second direction from the bridge (eg, a second support part 414 of FIG. 3B ).

According to various embodiments, an end of the first support portion may be formed to be bent with a predetermined curvature in the first direction, and an end of the second support portion may be formed to be bent with a predetermined curvature in the second direction.

According to various embodiments, each of the mounting portions is a column (eg, 432c in FIG. 3) mounted on one end of the elastic member, a protrusion extending from the column and at least partially mounted on the mounting area (eg, FIG. 3 ). 432a), a strip (eg, 432b of FIG. 3) disposed between the pillar and the protrusion to prevent separation of the fixing holes of the mounting portions.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, at least a partial region of the protrusion facing the mounting region may be formed in a cam or mountain shape.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the mounting region may be formed in an uneven shape protruding from the support portions.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, at least a partial region of the protrusion facing the mounting region may be formed in a ball shape in the mounting portions.

According to various embodiments, the mounting area may be formed in a hole shape passing through the front and rear of the support portions.

According to various embodiments, the mounting region may be formed in a groove shape in which at least a portion of the surfaces of the support portions is stepped.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a hinge module to which a first housing structure (eg, 121 in FIG. 5A) and a second housing structure (eg, 122 in FIG. 5A) according to an embodiment are connected to perform a hinge operation (eg: 200 in FIG. 5A is a hinge housing (for example, 150 in FIG. 5A ), a plurality of seats mounted on the hinge housing and providing a sense of detent in a specified angular range in the hinge operation of the first housing structure and the second housing structure. Detent structures of (e.g., 400a, 400b, 400c, 400d in FIG. 5A), a first mounted on the hinge housing, independently connected to the first housing structure and the second housing structure, and driven independently from each other. A third hinge structure (for example, 200a in FIG. 5A) and a second hinge structure (for example, 200b in FIG. 5A), mounted on the hinge housing, connected to the first housing structure and the second housing structure, and geared together. It may include a hinge structure (eg, 300 in FIG. 5A).

According to various embodiments, the first hinge structure may be disposed at one edge of the hinge housing, and the second hinge structure may be disposed at the other edge of the hinge housing.

According to various embodiments, the third hinge structure may be disposed between the first hinge structure and the second hinge structure.

According to various embodiments, at least one of the plurality of detent structures is disposed between the first hinge structure and the third hinge structure, and the other at least one of the plurality of detent structures is the third hinge structure and the third hinge structure. It may be disposed between the second hinge structure.

According to various embodiments, among the plurality of detent structures, a second detent structure adjacent to the first detent structure has the same structure as the first plate coupling portion, and a third plate coupled to the second housing structure is coupled. A fourth plate coupling having the same structure as the part and the second plate coupling portion and connected to the first housing structure may be included.

According to various embodiments, the first hinge structure or the second hinge structure is a center bracket (eg, 1541 in FIG. 20), a first hinge bracket that is connected to the first housing structure and rotates by a specified angle in a first direction. (Example: 1521 of FIG. 20) and a second hinge bracket (eg, 1522 of FIG. 20) connected to the second housing structure and rotating by a specified angle in a direction opposite to the first direction, and the first hinge The bracket and the second sub-hinge structure may be arranged to be driven independently.

According to various embodiments, the third hinge structure includes a first bracket (1421 of FIG. 16A) connected to the first housing structure, a second bracket (1422 of FIG. 16A) connected to the second housing structure, and the third hinge structure. It may include one bracket and a plurality of gears (43 and 44 in FIG. 16A) arranged in connection with the gear linkage of the second bracket.

Each of the constituent elements (eg, modules or programs) according to various embodiments may be composed of a singular or a plurality of entities, and some sub-elements of the aforementioned sub-elements are omitted, or other sub-elements are various. It may be further included in the embodiment. Alternatively or additionally, some constituent elements (eg, a module or a program) may be integrated into one entity, and functions performed by each corresponding constituent element prior to the consolidation may be performed identically or similarly. Operations performed by modules, programs, or other components according to various embodiments may be sequentially, parallel, repetitively or heuristically executed, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations may be added. I can.

Claims (23)

In the electronic device,
As the foldable housing 200,
Hinge structure 300;
A first housing structure (121) connected to the hinge structure and including a first surface (121a) and a second (121b) surface facing in a direction opposite to the first surface;
And a second housing structure 122 connected to the hinge structure and including a third surface 122a and a fourth surface 122b facing opposite to the third surface,
The first housing structure may be folded with the second housing structure around the hinge structure,
The first surface faces the third surface in a folded state, and the first surface faces in the same direction as the third surface in an unfolded state,
Between a folded state and an unfolded state, the first housing structure is rotatable about a first axis ARI 1 extending along the hinge structure, and the second housing structure is a second housing structure parallel to the first axis. A foldable housing rotatable about the axis ARI 2;
And a first region 51 disposed on the first housing structure and a second region 52 disposed on the second housing structure, wherein the first region and the second region are together with the first surface and the A flexible display forming a third surface; And
As a first detent structure 400c disposed on the hinge housing
It includes a first through hole (422_1) and a second through hole (422_2) spaced apart from the first axis and the second axis and aligned along a parallel third axis 601, and connected to the first housing structure. First member 420,
The first through hole and a first groove or a first opening (413c) and a second groove or a second opening (414c) facing the second through hole, connected to the second housing structure, and the unfolded state In, a second member 410 formed to accommodate a part of the first member,
A first ball 431 coupled to the first through hole and disposed between the first through hole and the first groove or the first opening in the unfolded state,
A second ball 432 coupled to the second through hole and disposed between the second through hole and the second groove or the second opening in the unfolded state, and
A first detent structure including a first elastic member 430 positioned on the first member between the first ball and the second ball to press the first ball and the second ball in an outward direction Electronic device comprising a. The method of claim 1,
Further comprising a second detent structure (400d) located in the hinge housing,
The second detent structure is
In the folded state, a third through hole 422_3 and a fourth through hole 422_4 spaced apart from the first shaft, the second shaft, and the third shaft and aligned along a parallel fourth shaft 602 A third member 420_2 including and connected to the second housing structure;
The third through hole and a third groove or a third opening (413c_2) and a fourth groove or fourth opening (414c_2) facing the fourth through hole, connected to the first housing structure, and an unfolded state In, a fourth member (410_2) formed to receive a part of the third member;
A third ball (413c_2) coupled to the third through hole and disposed between the third through hole and the third groove or the third opening in an unfolded state;
A fourth ball (414c_2) coupled to the fourth through hole and disposed between the fourth through hole and the fourth groove or fourth opening in an unfolded state; And
An electronic device comprising a second elastic member (430_2) positioned on the third member between the third ball and the fourth ball to press the third ball and the fourth ball in an outward direction. In the hinge module to which the first housing structure and the second housing structure are connected to be hinged,
Hinge housing 150;
Including; a first detent structure (400c) seated on the hinge housing,
The first detent structure is
A first plate coupling part 410 connected to the first housing structure;
Including; a second plate coupling portion 420 connected to the second housing structure,
The first plate coupling portion
A first coupling body 411;
Including; support portions (413, 414) connected to the first coupling body and arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance, and each having a mounting region formed at a predetermined position,
The second plate coupling portion
A second coupling body 421;
A mounting body 422 connected to the second coupling body;
Includes; fixing holes 422_1 and 422_2 formed on both sides of the mounting body,
Mounting portions (431, 432) seated in the fixing holes;
And an elastic member (430) seated on the mounting body and pressing the mounting portions in the direction of the mounting regions while the first housing structure and the second housing structures are unfolded. The method of claim 3,
Further comprising a second detent structure,
The second detent structure includes a third plate coupling portion having the same structure as the first plate coupling portion and connected to the second housing structure; And
And a fourth plate coupling portion having the same structure as the second plate coupling portion and connected to the first housing structure. The method of claim 3,
The first plate coupling portion
It further includes a bridge extending from the first coupling body,
The supports are
And a first support portion extending in a first direction from the bridge and a second support portion extending in a second direction from the bridge. The method of claim 5,
The end of the first support part is formed to be bent with a certain curvature in the first direction,
An end of the second support part has a predetermined curvature in the second direction and is formed to be bent. The method of claim 3,
Each of the mounting parts
A pillar seated at one end of the elastic member;
A protrusion extending from the pillar and at least partially seated in the mounting area;
A hinge module comprising a; a belt disposed between the pillar and the protrusion to prevent separation of the fixing holes of the mounting portions. The method of claim 7,
The mounting parts
A hinge module in which at least a partial region of the protrusion facing the mounting region is formed in a cam or mountain shape. The method of claim 8,
The mounting area is
A hinge module formed in an uneven shape protruding from the support portions. The method of claim 7,
The mounting parts
A hinge module in which at least a partial region of the protrusion facing the mounting region is formed in a ball shape. The method of claim 10,
The mounting area is
A hinge module formed in the form of a hole passing through the front and rear of the support portions. The method of claim 10,
The mounting area is
A hinge module in which at least a portion of the surfaces of the support portions is formed in a stepped groove shape. In the hinge module 200 to which the first housing structure 121 and the second housing structure 122 are connected to be hinged,
Hinge housing 150;
A plurality of detent structures (400a to 400d) mounted on the hinge housing and providing a sense of detent within a range of an angle specified in the hinge operation of the first housing structure and the second housing structure;
A first hinge structure 200a and a second hinge structure 200b mounted on the hinge housing and independently connected to the first and second housing structures and driven independently from each other;
And a third hinge structure (300) seated on the hinge housing, connected to the first housing structure and the second housing structure, and gear-linked. The method of claim 13,
The first hinge structure
It is disposed on one edge of the hinge housing,
The second hinge structure
A hinge module disposed on the other edge of the hinge housing. The method of claim 14,
The third hinge structure
A hinge module disposed between the first hinge structure and the second hinge structure. The method of claim 15,
At least one of the plurality of detent structures
It is disposed between the first hinge structure and the third hinge structure, and the remaining at least one of the plurality of detent structures
A hinge module disposed between the third hinge structure and the second hinge structure. The method of claim 13,
The first detent structure among the plurality of detent structures is
A first plate coupling part connected to the first housing structure;
Including; a second plate coupling portion connected to the second housing structure,
The first plate coupling portion
A first coupling body;
Including; is connected to the first coupling body and arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance, each supporting portion is formed at a predetermined position, including;
The second plate coupling portion
A second bonding body;
A mounting body connected to the second coupling body;
Includes; fixing holes formed on both sides of the mounting body,
Mounting portions seated in the fixing holes;
And an elastic member seated on the mounting body and pressing the mounting portions in the direction of the mounting regions while the first housing structure and the second housing structures are unfolded. The method of claim 17,
A second detent structure adjacent to the first detent structure among the plurality of detent structures has the same structure as a first plate coupling portion and a third plate coupling portion connected to the second housing structure; And
And a fourth plate coupling portion having the same structure as the second plate coupling portion and connected to the first housing structure. The method of claim 13,
The first hinge structure or the second hinge structure
Center bracket;
A first hinge bracket connected to the first housing structure and rotating by a specified angle in a first direction; And
Including; a second hinge bracket connected to the second housing structure and rotated by a specified angle in a direction opposite to the first direction,
The hinge module of the first hinge bracket and the second sub-hinge structure are arranged to be driven independently. The method of claim 13,
The third hinge structure
A first bracket connected to the first housing structure;
A second bracket connecting the second housing structure;
A hinge module comprising a; a plurality of gears disposed in relation to the gear interlocking of the first bracket and the second bracket. The method of claim 13,
A hinge module further comprising a shock absorbing member (441a, 442a) disposed between the fixing holes and the mounting portions. The method of claim 13,
The shock absorbing member
A hinge module including at least one ring (441b_1, 441b_2, 442b_1, 442b_2) mounted on an outer periphery of the mounting portion. The method of claim 13,
The shock absorbing member
A hinge module comprising members (441c, 442c) formed to surround at least a portion of the balls protruding outside the fixing holes.

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