RU2812174C2 - Portable communication device including sealing element - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: portable communication devices.

SUBSTANCE: communication device includes a housing including a first housing structure, a second housing structure rotating relative to the first housing structure, and a hinge cover located between a portion of the first housing structure and at least a portion of the second housing structure; a flexible display that is at least partially housed in the housing and includes a first portion, and a second portion, a hinge structure connected to the first housing structure and the second housing structure, and comprising a first protrusion protruding from the portion of the first housing structure inwardly towards the hinge cover, configured to form a gap between the end of the first projection and the outer surface of the hinge cover.

EFFECT: provision of a portable communication device or electronic device that prevents deformation and cracks in internal components.

12 cl, 27 dwg

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to portable communications devices or electronic devices. More particularly, the invention relates to portable communications devices or electronic devices having sealing elements.

State of the art

[0002] The development of communication technologies for transmitting electronic information combines various functionalities into a single electronic device or portable communication device. For example, smart phones combine audio, imaging, and scheduler functionality, as well as communication functionality, and can also provide more advanced functionality by having applications installed on them.

[0003] A user of a portable communications device or electronic device can search, display, and obtain more information by accessing the network rather than simply using the native functionality or information (eg, applications) of the electronic device. Direct network access (such as a wired connection) can provide fast and stable connectivity, but its usability may be limited by a fixed location or space. When accessing a network, the wireless connection is free from restrictions related to location or space, and its transmission speed or stability approaches that of direct access. In the near future, wireless communication is expected to create communications faster and more stable than direct access.

[0004] As smart phones or other personal/portable communication devices become more common, user demands for portability and ease of use increase. For example, a touch screen display may serve not only as a visual output device, but also provide a virtual keyboard that replaces a mechanical input device (eg, a key input device). In this way, portable communication devices can be made compact while providing even more improved usability (eg, large screen). Flexible displays, such as foldable or rollable displays, will become commercially available and electronic devices are expected to provide better portability and usability.

[0005] If the display or electronic device is foldable or rollable, it will be easier to carry while providing a large screen. To protect its internal electronic components or battery from external influences, the outer structure (eg, housing) of the electronic device may be rigid. In order for the electronic device to be folded/folded and unfolded/unfolded, its outer structures may be coupled together so as to be movable or rotatable relative to each other.

[0006] When moved or rotated together, the rigid outer structures may rub against each other, causing noise or damage. An approach to solve this problem is to leave a gap between the corresponding friction areas of the two external structures. However, the gap may allow foreign bodies to enter. Such foreign bodies may damage or contaminate the electronic components of an electronic device. For example, unwanted material can get stuck between mechanical or electronic parts that move relative to each other, deforming the parts or causing them to crack.

[0007] The above information is presented as prior art information only to assist in understanding the invention. No determination has been made, and no statement is made, as to whether any of the foregoing applies as prior art to the invention.

Disclosure of the Invention

Technical problem

[0008] Aspects of the invention are directed to solving at least the above problems and/or disadvantages and to providing at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the invention is to provide a portable communications device or electronic device including a sealing element between external structures.

[0009] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

[0010] In accordance with aspects of the invention, a portable communications device or electronic device is turned on. The portable communications device or electronic device includes a sealing member to prevent deformation and cracks in internal components.

[0011] Other aspects, advantages and essential features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the relevant art from the following detailed description, which, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses various embodiments of the invention.

The solution of the problem

[0012] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a portable communications device or electronic device is turned on. The portable communications device or electronic device includes: a housing including a first housing structure, a second housing structure, and a hinge cover disposed between at least a portion of the first housing structure and at least a portion of the second housing structure; a flexible display that is at least partially housed in the housing and includes a first portion corresponding to the first cabinet structure, a second portion corresponding to the second cabinet structure, and a third portion corresponding to the hinge cover; a hinge structure located between the third flexible display portion and the hinge cover and connected to the first housing structure and the second housing structure; and at least one sealing member located between the third flexible display portion and the hinge cover and in contact with the hinge cover.

[0013] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a portable communications device or electronic device is turned on. The portable communications device or electronic device includes: a first housing structure, a second housing structure that is rotatable between a first position in which the second housing structure is folded to face the first housing structure, and a second position in which the second housing structure is unfolded. parallel to the side of the first hull structure; a hinge structure that rotatably connects the first body structure and the second body structure; a hinge cover located between the first body structure and the second body structure to cover the hinge structure; a display including a first portion located in the first cabinet structure, a second portion located in the second cabinet structure, and a folding portion provided between the first portion and the second portion and located in correspondence with the hinge cover; and at least one sealing member mounted on the hinge cover to prevent foreign bodies from accumulating between the hinge cover and the display, the sealing member being in close contact with an edge of the display.

Positive effects of the invention

[0014] As is apparent from the following description, according to various embodiments of the invention, a sealing member is provided between the outer structures such as the first body structure, the second body structure and the hinge structure to prevent foreign bodies from entering into the electronic device. For example, damage to mechanical or electronic components inside an electronic device can be prevented. According to an embodiment, a gap as large as the sealing element can be provided between the outer structures, preventing direct friction between the rigid structures that may be caused when they open or close against each other. According to an embodiment, when a portable communications device or electronic device is opened or closed, a portion of the display may transform from flat to curved (or vice versa), and a sealing element is positioned where the display is deformed, thereby sealing the path along which foreign bodies. According to an embodiment, the sealing member corresponding to where the display deforms is formed from a low density elastic member, such as a sponge, thereby minimizing the load on the display while blocking the entry path of foreign bodies.

Brief description of drawings

[0015] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the invention will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 is a view illustrating an unfolded state of a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0017] FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0018] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portable communications device or electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0019] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a configuration in which a first sealing member or a second sealing member is provided in a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0020] FIG. 5 is a sectional view illustrating the folded position of a portable communication device or electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0021] FIG. 6 is a sectional view illustrating the unfolded position of a portable communication device or electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0022] FIG. 7 and 8 are sectional views illustrating a modified first sealing element or a second sealing element in a portable communications device or electronic device in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

[0023] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a configuration in which the third sealing member is provided in a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0024] FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a sealing structure formed on a display in a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0025] FIG. 11 is a sectional view illustrating a sealing structure formed by the third sealing member in a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] FIG. 12 is a sectional view illustrating a sealing structure formed by the third sealing member in a folded state of a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0027] FIG. 13 is a plan view illustrating a hinge cover of a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0028] FIG. 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 are sectional views illustrating a modified first sealing element or second sealing element in a portable communications device or electronic device in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

[0029] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a structure in which a first sealing member or a second sealing member is provided in a portable communication device or electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0030] FIG. 21 is a plan view illustrating a structure in which a first sealing member or a second sealing member is provided in a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0031] FIG. 22 and 23 are sectional views illustrating a modified first sealing element or a second sealing element in a portable communications device or electronic device in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

[0032] FIG. 24 and 25 are sectional views illustrating a modified portable communications device or electronic device in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

[0033] FIG. 26 is a sectional view illustrating a modified portable communication device or electronic device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; And

[0034] FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating a modified sealing member in a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0035] Throughout the drawings, it will be understood that like reference numerals refer to like parts, components, and structures.

Embodiment of the invention

[0036] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of the various embodiments of the invention as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in this understanding, but these should be regarded as merely indicative. Accordingly, those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that various changes and modifications to the various embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and structures may be omitted for the sake of clarity and brevity.

[0037] The concepts and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to bibliographical meanings, but are simply used by the inventor to provide a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that the following description of various embodiments of the invention is provided for purposes of illustration only and not for the purpose of limitation of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0038] It should be understood that singular forms include a plurality of subjects unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to a "component surface" includes a reference to one or more such surfaces.

[0039] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the invention and concepts used herein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to specific embodiments, and are intended to include various variations, equivalents, or substitutions for the corresponding embodiment . With respect to the description of the drawings, similar reference numbers may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It should be understood that the singular form of a subject noun may include one or more subjects unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. For the purposes of this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B, and C" and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding one of the phrases. For the purposes of this document, terms such as "1st" and "2nd" or "first" and "second" may be used to simply distinguish the corresponding component from another, and do not limit the components in another aspect (e.g. importance or priority). It should be understood that if an element (eg, the first element) is referred to, with or without the term "operatively" or "communicatively", as "associated with", "attached to", "connected to" or "attached to" another element (eg , second element), this means that the element may be coupled to another element directly (eg, wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0040] As used herein, the term "module" may include a block implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with other terms such as "logic", "logical block", "part" or "scheme". A module can be a single whole component or a minimal block or part of it, configured to perform one or more functions. For example, according to an embodiment, the module may be implemented in the form of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0041] Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., a program) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory or external memory), which can be read by a machine (such as an electronic device). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor) of a machine (e.g., an electronic device) may recall and execute at least one or more instructions stored in a storage medium, with or without the use of one or more other components under the control of the processor. This allows the machine to operate to perform at least one function in accordance with the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executed by an interpreter. The computer readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. However, the concept of “non-transitory” simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal (for example, an electromagnetic wave), but this concept does not distinguish between data being stored in a semi-permanent manner in the storage medium, and those where data is temporarily stored in a storage medium.

[0042] In accordance with an embodiment, a method in accordance with various embodiments of the invention may be included and provided in a computer program product. Computer software products may be traded as goods between sellers and buyers. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)) or distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or between two user devices (such as smart phones) directly. If distributed online, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored on a computer-readable storage medium, such as a manufacturer's server memory, an application store server, or a relay server.

[0043] According to various embodiments, each component (eg, module or program) of the components described above may include one object or more objects. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components described above may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple components (eg, modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such cases, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more of the functions of each of the plurality of components in exactly the same or similar manner as they were performed by the corresponding one of the plurality of components prior to integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more operations may be performed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added. .

[0044] FIG. 1 is a view illustrating an expanded state of a portable communication device or electronic device 100 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0046] In the following description, a pair of body structures are rotatably coupled together through a hinge structure, for example. However, it should be noted that the portable communication device or electronic device in accordance with various embodiments of the invention is not limited to this. For example, in accordance with various embodiments, a portable communications device or electronic device may include three or more housing structures. For purposes of this document, a “pair of body structures” may mean two rotatably coupled body structures out of three or more body structures.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 1, electronic device 100 may include: a pair of housing structures 110 and 120 coupled together through a hinge structure (eg, hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3) to be rotatable to stack on top of each other; a hinge cover 165 covering a foldable portion of a pair of body structures 110 and 120; and a display 130 (e.g., a flexible display or a foldable display) that is disposed or housed in the space defined by a pair of cabinet structures 110 and 120. A hinge cover 165 may be located between at least a portion of the first cabinet structure 110 and at least a portion of the second cabinet structure 110. structure 120. The hinge structure 164a may be positioned between the display 130 and the hinge cover 165 and may be coupled to the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include a foldable housing that is coupled to rotatable from a position in which the pair of housing structures 110 and 120 are folded together to a position in which the pair of housing structures 110 and 120 are laid flat. In the invention, when a pair of housing structures 110 and 120 are laid out side by side, the surface in which the display 130 is located may be defined as the 'front surface' of the electronic device 100, and its opposite surface may be defined as the 'rear surface' of the electronic device 100. The surface surrounding the space between the front and rear surfaces may be defined as the 'side surface' of the electronic device 100.

[0048] According to an embodiment, the pair of housing structures 110 and 120 may include a first housing structure 110, a second housing structure 120, a first back cover 140, and a second back cover 150. The pair of housing structures 110 and 120 of the electronic device 100 are not limited to shape and binding shown in FIG. 1 and 2, but may instead be implemented in other forms or through the combination and/or linking of other components. For example, the first body structure 110 and the first back cover 140 may be integrally formed with each other, and the second body structure 120 and the second back cover 150 may be integrally formed with each other. According to an embodiment, the first housing structure 110 may include a first back cover 140, and the second housing structure 120 may include a second back cover 150.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 may be located on opposite sides of the first axis, for example, the folding axis A, and they may be generally symmetrical in shape to each other with respect to the folding axis A. According to an embodiment, the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 can be rotated on the hinge structure 164a or the hinge cover 165 about other folding axes. For example, each of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may be rotatably coupled to be rotatable on the hinge structure 164a or the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, when each of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 rotates about the folding axis A or other folding axes, they can be rotated relative to each other from a position in which two different front surface areas are facing each other to a position in which two different front surface areas are tilted or laid out side by side.

[0050] For purposes of this document, when A and B are located or run side by side, this means that A and B are located at least partially adjacent to each other or at least partially parallel to each other. According to an embodiment, when A and B are arranged (or arranged) side by side, this means that A and B are arranged (or arranged) to face the same direction or directions parallel to each other. According to an embodiment, when A and B are inclined toward each other at an angle other than an angle in the range of about 160 degrees to about 180 degrees, A and B can be said to be positioned (or arranged) side-by-side. In the following description, although the exemplary phrases "side by side" and "parallel to each other" may be used to describe respective structures, the shape and arrangement of the structures can be readily understood from the accompanying drawings.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 may form different angles or distances depending on whether they are in an expanded state (or an extended state, a flat state, or an open state) or a folded state ( or folded state), or a state in between. According to an embodiment, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may be symmetrical in shape except that the first housing structure 110 further includes a sensor area 131d in which various sensors are arranged. Alternatively, sensor zone 131d may be located in the second housing structure 120 other than the first housing structure 110, or another sensor zone may be included in the second housing structure 120.

[0052] In accordance with an embodiment, in an expanded state of the electronic device 100, the first housing structure 110 may be coupled to a hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3) and may include a first surface 111 located facing the front surface of the electronic device 100, a second surface facing away from the first surface 111, and a first side surface element 113 surrounding at least a portion of the space between the first surface 111 and the second surface 112. In accordance with an embodiment, the first side surface element 113 may include itself a first side surface 113a located parallel to the folding axis A, a second side surface 113b extending from one end of the first side surface 113a in a direction that is perpendicular to the folding axis A, and a third side surface 113c extending from the other end of the first side surface 113a in the direction , which is perpendicular to the folding axis A. For the purposes of this document, the terms "perpendicular" or "parallel" may be used interchangeably with "partially perpendicular" or "partially parallel". In some embodiments, “parallel” or “perpendicular” can also mean “oblique within an angle range of about 10 degrees.”

[0053] According to an embodiment, the second housing structure 120 may be coupled to a hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3) and, in the unfolded state of the electronic device 100, the second housing structure 120 may include a third surface 121 , located to face the front surface of the electronic device 100, a fourth surface 122 facing away from the third surface 121, and a second side surface member 123 surrounding at least a portion of the space between the third surface 121 and the fourth surface 122. In accordance with an embodiment , the second side surface member 123 may include a fourth side surface 123a disposed parallel to the folding axis A, a fifth side surface 123b extending from one end of the fourth side surface 123a in a direction that is perpendicular to the folding axis A, and a sixth side surface 123c extending from the other end of the fourth side surface 123a in a direction that is perpendicular to the folding axis A. According to an embodiment, the third surface 121, when folded, may be positioned to face the first surface 111. According to an embodiment, the second side surface member 123 may be formed of substantially the same shape or material. , as the first side surface element 113, although they may differ in part in their specific shapes.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include a recess 101 to accommodate a display 130 through a combination of the structural shapes of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. The recess 101 may be substantially the same size as the display 130 According to an embodiment, due to the sensor area 131d, the recess 101 may have two or more different widths W1 and W2 in a direction that is perpendicular to the folding axis A. For example, the recess 101 may have a first width W1 between a first portion 120a, parallel to the folding axis A, of the second housing structure 120, and a first portion 110a formed at the edge of the sensor area 131d of the first housing structure 110, and a second width W2 formed by the second portion 120b the second body structure 120 and the second portion 110b, which is parallel to the folding axis A and does not correspond to the sensor area 131d, of the first body structure 110. Here, the second width W2 may be larger than the first width W1. For example, the recess 101 may be formed with a first width W1 between the first portion 110a of the first body structure 110 and the first portion 120a of the second body structure 120 that are asymmetrical to each other in shape, and a second width W2 between the second portion 110b of the first body structure 110 and the second portion 120b of the second body structure 120, which are symmetrical to each other in shape. According to an embodiment, the first portion 110a and the second portion 110b of the first body structure 110 may be formed to have different distances from the folding axis A. The width of the recess 110 is not limited to this. According to an embodiment, the recess 101 may have two or more different widths depending on the shape of the sensor area 131d or asymmetrical portions of the shape of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120.

[0055] In accordance with an embodiment, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may be at least partially formed from a metallic or non-metallic material with a rigidity selected to support the display 130. In accordance with an embodiment, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may at least partially include electrically conductive material. When the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 include electrically conductive material, the electronic device 100 may transmit/receive radio waves through the electrically conductive portions of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. For example, a processor or communication module of the electronic device may communicate wirelessly with using a portion of the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the sensor area 131d may be formed adjacent to one corner of the first body structure 110 and have a predetermined area. However, the location, shape or size of the sensor area 131d is not limited to those shown in the drawings. For example, according to an embodiment, the sensor zone 131d may be provided in another corner of the first body structure 110 or in any zone between the upper corner and the lower corner. According to an embodiment, the sensor zone 131d may be located in at least a region of the second housing structure 120. According to an embodiment, the sensor zone 131d may be located to extend toward the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. According to with an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include components that are visible from its front surface through the sensor area 131d, or one or more holes prepared in the sensor area 131d, and may perform various functions through the components. The components arranged in the sensor area 131d may include at least one of, for example, the following: a front camera device, a proximity sensor, an ambient light sensor, an iris recognition sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an indicator.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the first back cover 140 may be located on the second surface 112 of the first housing structure 110 and may have a generally rectangular perimeter. According to an embodiment, the perimeter of the first back cover 140 may be at least partially surrounded by the first housing structure 110. Likewise, the second back cover 150 may be located on the fourth surface 122 of the second housing structure 120 and its perimeter may be at least partially surrounded by a second body structure 120.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the first rear cover 140 and the second rear cover 150 may be substantially symmetrical in shape about the folding axis A. According to an embodiment, the first back cover 140 and the second back cover 150 may have various other different shapes. According to an embodiment, the first back cover 140 may be integrally formed with the first body structure 110, and the second back cover 150 may be integrally formed with the second body structure 120.

[0059] According to an embodiment, the combined structure of the first back cover 140, the second back cover, the first housing structure 110, and the second housing structure 120 may provide a space in which various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, an antenna module, a sensor or battery) of the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, one or more components may be arranged or visually visible in/through the rear surface of the electronic device 100. For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually visible through the first zone 141 a rear surface of the first back cover 140. According to an embodiment, the sensor may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera device, and/or a flash. According to an embodiment, the additional display 152 may be at least visually visible through the second rear surface area 151 of the second back cover 150.

[0060] The display 130 may be located in a space defined by a pair of cabinet structures 110 and 120. For example, the display 130 may be mounted in a recess (e.g., recess 101 in FIG. 1) formed by a pair of cabinet structures 110 and 120, and the display 130 may be positioned to occupy substantially the majority of the front surface of the electronic device 100. For example, the front surface of the electronic device 100 may include a display 130, a partial area (e.g., an edge area) of the first housing structure 110 that is adjacent to the display 130 , and a partial region (e.g., an edge region) of the second housing structure 120. In accordance with an embodiment, the rear surface of the electronic device 100 may include a first rear cover 140, a partial region (eg, an edge region) of the first housing structure 110, which adjacent to the first back cover 140, a second back cover 150, and a partial area (e.g., an edge area) of the second body structure 120 that is adjacent to the second back cover 150.

[0061] According to an embodiment, display 130 may be a display, at least a portion of which can be converted to be flat or curved. According to an embodiment, the display 130 may include a foldable portion 131c, a first portion 131a located on one side of the foldable portion 131c (e.g., an area to the right of the foldable portion 131c), and a second portion 131b located on the opposite side of the foldable portion 131c. area 131c (for example, the area to the left of the folding area 131c). For example, the first portion 131a may be located on the first surface 111 of the first cabinet structure 110, and the second portion 131b may be located on the third surface 121 of the second cabinet structure 120. For example, the display 130 may extend from the first surface 111 through the hinge cover 165 or hinge structure. 164a in FIG. 2 to the third surface 121, and a portion thereof (eg, folding portion 131c) corresponding to at least the hinge cover 165 or the hinge structure 164a may be a flexible portion that can be transformed from flat to curved.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the segmentation of the display 130 is merely an example, and the display 130 may be divided into multiple (e.g., four or more, or two) zones, depending on the design or function of the display 130. As an example, in embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the folding portion 131c may extend along a vertical axis (for example, the y-axis in FIG. 3) parallel to the folding axis A, and the display area 130 may be divided by the folding portion 131c or the folding axis A. In another embodiment, the display area 130 may be divided by another folding portion (e.g., a folding portion that is parallel to the horizontal axis (e.g., the x-axis in FIG. 3) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis that is parallel to the x-axis in FIG. 3) The zone segmentation described above means that it can be so physically accomplished by a pair of housing structures 110 and 120 and a hinge structure (e.g., a hinge cover 165 or a hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3) and generally a single display 130 can be located in the area or space that is provided by a pair of housing structures 110 and 120, and a hinge structure (eg, hinge cover 165 or hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3) to display a single entire screen.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the first portion 131a and the second portion 131b may be generally symmetrical in shape relative to the folding portion 131c. However, unlike the second region 131b, the first region 131a may include a recess zone (eg, recess region 133 in FIG. 3) that provides a sensor zone 131d and, in the remaining zone, may be symmetrical in shape to the second region 131b. For example, the first portion 131a and the second portion 131b may include symmetrical portions and asymmetrical portions.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 3, a hinge cover 165 may be positioned between the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 to hide internal components (eg, hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3). According to an embodiment, the hinge cover 165 may be hidden by a portion of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 or visible from the outside depending on the operating state (e.g., an unfolded state or a folded state) of the electronic device 100. For example, the hinge cover 165 may be visible more when folded than when unfolded.

[0065] The operation of the first cabinet structure 110 and the second cabinet structure 120 and each area of the display 130 will be described below depending on the operating state (eg, the expanded state and the folded state) of the electronic device.

[0066] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 100 is in an unfolded state (eg, the state shown in FIG. 1), the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 are at an angle of 180 degrees between them, and the first portion 131a and the second portion 131b of the display 130 may be arranged to display the screen in the same direction, for example, in directions parallel to each other. The folding portion 131c may be flush with the first portion 131a and the second portion 131b.

[0067] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is in a folded state (eg, the state as shown in FIG. 2), the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may face each other. For example, in a folded state (e.g., the state as shown in FIG. 2), the electronic device 100, the first portion 131a, and the second portion 131b of the display 130 may be placed in a state where they face each other at a slight angle (e.g. , from 0 degrees to 10 degrees) between them. In a folded state (eg, a state as shown in FIG. 2) of the electronic device 100, the folding portion 131c may at least partially form a curved surface with a predetermined curvature.

[0068] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 100 is in an intermediate state, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may be positioned at a predetermined angle between them, for example, 90 degrees or 120 degrees. For example, in an intermediate state, the first portion 131a and the second portion 131b of the display 130 may be positioned at an angle between them that is greater than the angle at which they are in the folded state and less than the angle at which they are in the unfolded state. The folding portion 131c may at least partially have a curved surface with a predetermined curvature and, in this case, the curvature may be less than that in the folded state.

[0069] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portable communications device or electronic device 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 3, in accordance with an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include a display 130, a support member assembly 160, at least one printed circuit board 170, a first housing structure 110, a second housing structure 120, a first back cover 140, and a second back cover 150 In the invention, the display 130 may be used interchangeably with a display module or display assembly.

[0071] The display 130 may include a display panel 131 (eg, a flexible display panel) and one or more wafers 132 or layers secured to the display panel 131. According to an embodiment, plate 132 may be positioned between display panel 131 and support member assembly 160. The display panel 131 may be located on at least a portion of one surface (eg, the surface facing the Z axis in FIG. 3) of the plate 132. The plate 132 may be shaped to match the display panel 131. For example, the portion of the plate 132 may be shaped to match the shape of the recess area 133 of the display panel 131.

[0072] The support member assembly 160 may include a first support member 161, a second support member 162, a hinge structure 164a disposed with the first support member 161 and a second support member 162, a hinge cover 165 covering the hinge structure 164a as viewed hinge structure 164a on the outside, and a wiring member (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) intersecting the first support member 161 and the second support member 162. According to an embodiment, the support member assembly 160 may include a first hinge plate 164b mounted on the first support member 161, and a second hinge plate 164c mounted on the second support member 162. According to an embodiment, the wiring member may be located in a direction (eg, x-axis direction) that intersects the first support member 161 and the second support member 162, and may be hidden by the first hinge plate 164b or the second hinge plate 164c, and are not shown in FIG. 3.

[0073] According to an embodiment, the first hinge plate 164b may be mounted within the first housing structure 110, and the second hinge plate 164c may be mounted within the second housing structure 120. According to an embodiment, the first hinge plate 164b may be directly mounted on the first support member 161, and the second hinge plate 164c may be directly mounted on the second support member 162. According to an embodiment, the first hinge plate 164b (or the second hinge plate 164c) may be directly mounted on another structure (e.g., the first surface rotation support 114 or second rotation support surface 124) within the first housing structure 110 (or the second housing structure 120). For example, the structure in which the first hinge plate 164b (or the second hinge plate 164c) is mounted within the first housing structure 110 (or the second housing structure 120) may vary according to the embodiments. In another embodiment, the hinge structure 164a may be mounted on the first hinge plate 164b and the second hinge plate 164c, rotatably connecting the second hinge plate 164c to the first hinge plate 164b. For example, the folding axis (for example, the folding axis A in FIG. 1) may be formed by the hinge structure 164a, and the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 (or the first support member 161 and the second support member 162) may rotate on each other in mainly relative to the folding axis A.

[0074] According to an embodiment, the support element assembly 160 may be positioned with the plate 132 and at least one circuit board 170. As an example, the first support element 161 may be positioned with the first portion 131a of the display 130 and the first circuit board 171. The second support member 162 may be positioned with the second portion 131b of the display 130 and the second circuit board 172.

[0075] As mentioned above, at least one circuit board 170 may include a first circuit board 171 located on the first support member 161 and a second circuit board 172 located on the second support member 162. The first circuit board 171 and the second printed circuit board the board 172 may be located within the space formed by the second antenna module, the first housing structure 110, the second housing structure 120, the first back cover 140, and the second back cover 150. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device 100 may be mounted on the first circuit board 171 and second printed circuit board 172.

[0076] In accordance with an embodiment, the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 may be assembled together to be coupled to both sides of the support member assembly 160, with the display 130 coupled to the support member assembly 160. The first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 may be slidably coupled to two opposing sides of the support member assembly 160, for example, the first support member 161 and the second support member 162, respectively. The first support member 161 and the second support member 162 may be substantially disposed within the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120 and, in accordance with an embodiment, may be interpreted as corresponding portions of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the first housing structure 110 may include a first rotation surface 114, and the second housing structure 120 may include a second rotation surface 124 corresponding to the first rotation surface 114. The first rotation surface 114 and the second rotation surface 124 may include curved surfaces corresponding to a curved surface included in the hinge cover 165.

[0078] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 100 is in an unfolded state (eg, the state as shown in FIG. 1), the first rotation surface 114 and the second rotation surface 124 may cover the hinge cover 165, allowing that the hinge cover 165 is not visible or minimally visible from the rear surface of the electronic device 100. In accordance with an embodiment, when the electronic device 100 is in a folded state (for example, the state as shown in FIG. 2), the first rotation surface 114 and the second The rotation providing surface 124 may rotate along the curved surface of the hinge cover 165, maximizing the visibility of the hinge cover 165 from the rear surface of the electronic device 100.

[0079] In the above description, serial numbers as in the first body structure 110, the second body structure 120, the first side surface element 113 and the second side surface element 123 were used simply to distinguish the components, and it should be noted that the scope of the invention is not limited to the use serial numbers. For example, although the sensor zone 131d is formed in the first housing structure 110 in the above example, the sensor zone 131d may be formed in the second housing structure 120 or in each of the first housing structure 110 and the second housing structure 120. According to an embodiment , although the first rear surface area 141 and the additional display 152 are located in the first rear cover 140 and the second rear cover 150, respectively, the first rear surface area 141 for housing, for example, a sensor, and the additional display 152 for displaying a screen, both elements may be located in either the first back cover 140 or the second back cover 150.

[0080] The following description is made with reference to FIG. from 1 to 3 if necessary. In the following embodiments, components identical to those in the above embodiments or readily apparent from the description of the above embodiments are designated with or without the same reference numerals and their detailed description may be omitted. In the following description, a state (for example, a state as shown in FIG. 2) in which the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 are folded to face each other may be referred to as “first position”, and the state ( for example, a state as shown in FIG. 1) in which the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 are laid out side by side may be referred to as the “second position.”

[0081] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include sealing members 181 and 182 provided between the hinge body 165 and the first housing structure 110 and/or between the hinge cover 165 and the second housing structure 120. According to an embodiment , the electronic device 100 may include other sealing members 183 provided between the hinge cover 165 and the display 130. The sealing structure formed between the hinge cover 165 and the first housing structure 110 (or the second housing structure 120) is described below with reference to FIG. 4 to 6. For the purposes of this document, 'sealing structure' may mean a structure for blocking the entry of foreign bodies, whether solid or liquid, such as dust and chips. The elements or components (eg, sealing elements 181, 182 and 183 in FIG. 4, described below) forming the 'sealing structure' may be formed from an elastic material that can store elastic force when compressed by an external force and when the external force is removed, can return back to its original form. For example, components or elements forming a 'sealing structure' may prevent at least a solid or liquid foreign body from entering the electronic device 100.

[0082] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a configuration in which a first sealing member (eg, first sealing member 181 in FIG. 3) or a second sealing member (eg, second sealing member 182 in FIG. 3) is mounted in the portable communication device or an electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0083] FIG. 5 is a sectional view illustrating the folded position of a portable communication device or electronic device (eg, the electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0084] FIG. 6 is a sectional view illustrating the unfolded position of a portable communication device or electronic device (eg, the electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 4 to 6, the first sealing element 181 may include an elastic material such as rubber, silicone, sponge, polycarbonate or Teflon™, and the first sealing element 181 may extend in the longitudinal direction (eg, the y direction in FIG. 3) of the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, a first sealing member 181 may be provided between the first body structure (eg, the first body structure 110 in FIG. 3) and the hinge cover (eg, the hinge cover 165 in FIG. 3), forming a sealing structure between the first body structure 110 and the hinge cover 165.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the first rotation surface (e.g., first rotation surface 114 in FIG. 3) or the second rotation surface (e.g., second rotation surface 124 in FIG. 3) may include curved surfaces 265a or 265b corresponding to the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165. For example, the first rotation surface 114 may be positioned to at least partially surround the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165. When the first housing structure 110 or the second housing structure 120 is rotated between the first position and the second position, the first rotation enabling surface 114 may be generally movable while at least partially facing the outer circumferential surface of the hinge roof 165, partially hiding or exposing the cover 165 hinge. According to an embodiment, the hinge cover 165 may be more visually visible in the first position than in the second position. When two structures (eg, the first body structure 110 and the hinge cover 165) directly rub against each other with such relative movement, noise or wear may occur as mentioned above. According to an embodiment, a predetermined gap may be formed between the first rotation surface 114 and the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165 to prevent noise and wear due to friction between the rigid structures.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 181 may seal the gap between the first body structure 110 (eg, the first rotation surface 114) and the hinge cover 165. For example, the inner space formed by combining the first body structure 110 and the hinge cover 165 may be connected to the inner space through a gap between the first body structure 110 and the hinge cover 165, and the first sealing member 181 may seal the gap. In accordance with an embodiment, as including an elastic material, the first sealing element 181 can seal the gap between the first body structure 110 and the hinge cover 165 while reducing friction during rotation of the body structures 110 and 120 and controlling noise and wear due to friction.

[0088] In accordance with an embodiment, the first sealing element 181 may be mounted or attached to the first rotation surface 114. For example, the first sealing element 181 may be mounted in the first housing structure 110 and positioned to contact the hinge cover 165. Referring to FIG. 6, the first sealing member 181 may include a locking portion 181a and a sealing portion 181b. The locking portion 181a may be mounted in the first body structure 110 (or the second body structure 120) and extend in the y-direction in FIG. 3, with a predetermined width. According to an embodiment, the sealing portion 181b may extend from the locking portion 181a and closely contact the hinge cover 165. Although the first sealing element 181 is mounted or attached to the first rotation surface 114 in the current embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the first sealing element 181 may be mounted on the hinge cover 165 in a position or area in which it remains hidden by the first housing structure 110. For example, when the first sealing element 181 is mounted on the hinge cover 165, the first sealing element 181 may be positioned such that to contact the first housing structure 110.

[0089] According to an embodiment, when in close contact with the hinge cover 165, the sealing portion 181b may be at least partially deformed to be inclined or flexed relative to the locking portion 181a. For example, the first sealing element 181 may include a recessed portion 181c at least partially surrounded by a locking portion 181a and a sealing portion 181b. According to an embodiment, the sealing portion 181b may be formed at least partially in a slanted or curved shape with respect to the locking portion 181a before closely contacting the hinge cover 165. For example, the first sealing element 181 may be configured to include a recessed portion 181c.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the second sealing element 182 can be mounted in the second housing structure 120 and, although different in shape and size, the second sealing element 182 can be easily understood from the configuration of the first sealing element 181. Thus, below A detailed description of the second sealing element 182 is provided.

[0091] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device 100, which is taken along line C-C in FIG. 2, with the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 folded to face each other, for example. Referring to FIG. 5, in a first position, the first sealing element 181 may be positioned adjacent an edge of the hinge cover 165, and the second sealing element 182 may be positioned adjacent the opposite edge of the hinge cover 165. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device 100 taken along line B-B in FIG. 1, with the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 laid out side by side, for example. Referring to FIG. 6, in the second position, the first sealing element 181 and the second sealing element 182 may be located adjacent to each other.

[0092] According to an embodiment, although FIG. 6 illustrates that the seal portion 181b overlaps the hinge cover 165, this is simply for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the shape of the first seal element 181 or the second seal element 182. For example, in an actual electronic device, the seal portion 181b may be deformed when in close contact with the cover 165 hinge According to an embodiment, the sealing portion 181b can deform and increase elastic force while maintaining its tight contact with the hinge cover 165 in a stable manner. According to an embodiment, if the sealing portion 181b accumulates excessive elastic force, unnecessary load may be applied to the mechanical structure (eg, the first body structure 110, the second body structure 120, or the hinge cover 165). According to an embodiment, the recessed portion 181c can smooth out deformation of the sealing portion 181b, reducing or preventing excessive elastic force accumulation or unnecessary stress on the mechanical structure.

[0093] According to an embodiment, during an unfolding or folding operation of the electronic device 100, the first sealing member 181 or the second sealing member 182 may slide and contact the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165, allowing the first sealing member 181 and the second sealing member 182 to remain in a stable sealing structure. For example, the first sealing element 181 or the second sealing element 182 may seal the gap between the first body structure 110 and the hinge structure 164a or between the second body structure 120 and the hinge structure 164a. Thus, the inner space formed by the combination of the first body structure 110, the second body structure 120 and the hinge cover 165 can be sealed from the outer space by the first sealing element 181 or the second sealing element 182.

[0094] According to an embodiment, when configuring an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) that is foldable or rollable, a plurality of rigid structures (e.g., a first housing structure 110, a second housing structure 120, and /or hinge cover 165) may be combined to at least partially define the interior space. As the plurality of rigid structures are relatively moved or rotated with respect to each other, the electronic device 100 may be folded (or folded) or unfolded. The predetermined clearance that is provided where a plurality of rigid structures are connected can prevent friction that may occur during relative movement or rotation. In various embodiments of the invention, a sealing member (eg, first sealing member 181 or second sealing member 182) may be placed in a gap provided to prevent friction (eg, a gap between a plurality of rigid structures), preventing an external foreign body from entering the internal space. The sealing element includes an elastic material to contain or reduce noise or wear due to friction.

[0095] FIG. 7 and 8 are sectional views illustrating a configuration in which the modified first sealing element (for example, the first sealing element 181 in Fig. 3 or 5) or the modified second sealing element (for example, the second sealing element 182 in Fig. 3 or 5) mounted on a portable communications device or electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIG. 1) in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 7, the first sealing element 281 or the second sealing element 282 may include a body 281a or 282a formed from a sponge. For example, body 281a or 282a may form a sealing structure between the first body structure 110 (or the second body structure 120) and the hinge cover 165. The sponge is a type of low-density elastic material that provides a sealing structure between the first body structure 110 and the hinge cover 165, thereby reducing the load applied to the first body structure 100 or the hinge cover 165, or friction during the folding/unfolding operation of the electronic device 200. According to an embodiment, if the body 281a or 282a, which is a low-density elastic material, is damaged by an external factor, foreign bodies may be generated. According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 281 or the second sealing element 282 may include a shell layer 281b or 282b surrounding the body 281a or 282a. The shell layer 281b or 282b may be formed from a fabric material to prevent the body 281a or 282a from collapsing. According to an embodiment, different friction coefficients can be set depending on the material of the shell layer 281b or 282b. For example, the shell layer 281b or 282b may reduce the frictional force between the first sealing element 281 or the second sealing element 282 and the hinge cover 165.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 8, the hinge cover 165 may further include projections 383 at its two opposing edges. The first sealing element 381 and the second sealing element 382 may closely contact, over their entire width (eg, length measured in the x direction in FIG. 3), the hinge cover 165 to form a sealing structure. According to an embodiment, in a first position, for example, when the electronic device 300 is folded (for example, the electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3), the first sealing element 381 or the second sealing element 382 may be positioned without partially contacting the cover 165 hinge. The protrusion(s) 383, in a first position, may intersect with the first sealing element 381 or the second sealing element 382, compressing the first sealing element 381 or the second sealing element 382. For example, in the first position, the contact area between the first sealing element 381 or the second sealing element member 382 and hinge cover 165 may be reduced slightly, but more intimate contact can be achieved with the projection(s) 383, thereby maintaining a more stable sealing structure. According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 381 or the second sealing element 382 may be formed from a lubricant, such as an acetal resin or Teflon™ sheet, reducing noise or wear of the hinge cover 165 despite friction with the hinge cover 165.

[0098] According to an embodiment, protrusion 383 may be an extended or protruding portion of the hinge cover 165. For example, the projection 383 may have a rigid structure similar to the hinge cover 165. Alternatively, protrusion 383 may be formed from a different material, such as an elastic material, than the rigid structure of the hinge cover 165. When the protrusion 383 is formed from an elastic material, the protrusion 383 may be formed by molding with an insert while being associated with the hinge cover 165.

[0099] In accordance with an embodiment, when a display (eg, display 130 in FIG. 3) is associated with rigid structures (eg, first housing structure 110, second housing structure 120, and hinge cover 165 in FIG. 3), it may be determined the interior of an electronic device (eg, the electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3). For example, the interior of the electronic device 100 may generally mean the space surrounded by the display 130 and rigid structures.

[0100] The folding portion (eg, folding portion 131c in FIG. 3) of the display 130 may be deformed to be curved when the electronic device 100 is folded or unfolded, and when an external force is applied, it may be easily damaged. For example, the connection or attachment of the foldable portion 131c of the display 130 to a rigid structure (eg, hinge cover 165) may be limited. According to an embodiment, a gap may be formed between the folding portion 131c and its corresponding rigid structure at the edge of the display 130, providing space to allow the folding portion 131c to deform so that it is curved. According to an embodiment, the gap formed between the folding portion 131c and its corresponding rigid structure can serve as a path through which foreign bodies can enter. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include a third sealing element (e.g., sealing element 183 in FIG. 3 or third sealing element 481a or 481b in FIG. 9, described below) forming a sealing structure between the folding portion 131c and its corresponding rigid structure (eg, hinge cover 165). A sealing structure using the third sealing element is described below with reference to FIG. from 9 to 12.

[0101] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a configuration in which the third sealing member 481a or 481b (eg, sealing member 181 in FIG. 3) is mounted in a portable communication device or electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIG. 1 according to 3) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 9, the electronic device 100 may include at least one third sealing member 481a and 481b provided between a display (eg, display 130 in FIG. 3) and a hinge cover (eg, hinge cover 165 in FIG. 3). According to an embodiment, a pair of third sealing members 481a and 481b may be provided to contact or attach to the upper and lower portions, respectively, of the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, the third sealing members 481a and 481b may be positioned such that their bottom or side portion contacts the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, the third sealing elements 481a and 481b may generally have a bottom or side portion thereof attached to the hinge cover 165. When the display 130 is positioned on the hinge cover 165, third sealing elements 481a and 481b may contact an interior surface (e.g., folding portion 131c in FIG. 2) of the display 130. For example, third sealing elements 481a and 481b may contact two opposite ends of the folding portion. 131c at the edge of the display 130, forming a sealing structure between the folding portion 131c and the rigid structure (eg, the hinge cover 165). According to an embodiment, the third sealing elements 481a and 481b may be formed from a low density elastic material, such as sponge. When the third sealing members 481a and 481b are formed from a low-density elastic material, the load applied to the display 130 by the elastic force built up by the third sealing members 481a and 481b may be small despite being in close contact with the folding portion 131c during the folding operation. unfolding of the electronic device 100.

[0103] FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a seal structure formed on a display 130 in a portable communications device or electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIG. 3) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 10, the first portion 131a and the second portion 131b of the display 130 may be mounted in the first cabinet structure 110 and the second cabinet structure 120, remaining flat even during a folding/unfolding operation of the electronic device 100. For example, the first portion 131a and the second portion 131b may be mounted in rigid structures. According to an embodiment, the display 130 may include a first attachment zone 491a provided along an edge of the first portion 131a and a second attachment zone 491b provided along an edge of the second portion 131b. The first attachment zone 491a or the second attachment zone 491b may be mounted on a side surface member (e.g., the first side surface member 113 in FIGS. 1 or 2) of a rigid structure, such as the first body structure 110, or a side surface member (e.g., the second member 123 side surface in Figures 1 or 2) of the second body structure 120. For example, a sealing structure may be formed between the first portion 131a and a rigid structure (for example, the first body structure 110 in Figures 1 to 3) corresponding to the first attachment zone 491a , and a sealing structure may be formed between the second portion 131b and the rigid structure (eg, the second body structure 120 in FIGS. 1 to 3) corresponding to the second attachment region 491b.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the display 130 may include contact zones 493a and 493b at opposite ends of the folding portion 131c, on its inner surface. According to an embodiment, the contact zones 491a and 493b may be located at the edge of the display 130 and adjacent to the first attachment zone 491a or the second attachment zone 491b. For example, one of the contact zones 493a and 493b (e.g., the contact zone indicated by numeral 493a) may mean the area between one end of the first attachment zone 491a and the end of the second attachment zone 491b, and the other of the contact zones 493a and 493b (e.g., the contact zone 493b) may refer to the area between the other end of the first attachment zone 491a and the other end of the second attachment zone 491b. According to an embodiment, the first attachment zone 491a, the second attachment zone 491b, and the contact zones 493a and 493b may be combined to form a closed loop or a closed curve.

[0106] According to an embodiment, when the first attachment area 491a is attached to the first body structure 110 and the second attachment area 491b is attached to the second body structure 120, the contact areas 493a and 493b may be arranged corresponding to two opposite ends of the hinge cover 165 . According to an embodiment, the third sealing elements 481a and 481b may contact one of the contact areas 493a and 493b to form a sealing structure between the end of the folding portion 131c and the end of the hinge cover 165.

[0107] FIG. 11 is a sectional view illustrating a seal structure formed by the third seal members 481a and 481b in a portable communication device or electronic device (eg, the electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) according to an embodiment.

[0108] FIG. 12 is a sectional view illustrating a sealing structure formed by the third sealing member 481a with a folded portable communication device or electronic device (eg, the electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3), in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device 100 taken along, for example, folding axis A in FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 11, in the second position, the third sealing element 481a may be in close contact with the display 130 (eg, one of the contact areas 493a and 493b) while remaining in a substantially polygonal shape, such as a cuboid. According to an embodiment, the connecting portion(s) 464 may be provided in the interior of the hinge cover 165. The coupling portion 464d may be provided in, for example, a hinge plate (eg, the first hinge plate 164b or the second hinge plate 164c in FIG. 3), and the hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3 may be coupled to the first hinge plate 164b or the second hinge plate 164c via the coupling portion 464d.

[0110] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a portion of the electronic device 100 taken along line D-D in FIG. 11 illustrating the folded state of the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 in a first position, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Referring to FIG. 12, in the first position, the display 130, such as the folding portion 131c, may be at least partially folded or bent, compressing the third sealing element 481a. For example, when the display 130 is in a flat form, the third sealing element 481a may be in a state of maximum expansion in the electronic device 100 and, when a portion (eg, folding portion 131c or contact areas 493a and 493b) of the display 130 is flexed, the third sealing element 481a may be compressed. The third sealing element 481a may be formed from a low density elastic material such as sponge, and although compressed, the load applied to the display 130 may thus be tiny.

[0111] As set forth above, in accordance with an embodiment, when the rigid structures (for example, the first body structure 110, the second body structure 120, and the hinge cover 165 in FIGS. 1 to 3) are moved toward each other or connected together in a rotatable manner , the first sealing element or the second sealing element (for example, the first sealing element 181 or the second sealing element 182 in Fig. 3) can form a stable sealing structure between the rigid structures. For example, the electronic device 100 (eg, the electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) may be folded or rolled into a structure while preventing foreign bodies from entering through the gap between the rigid structures.

[0112] According to an embodiment, with respect to a portion that remains flat when mounting a display (eg, display 130 in FIGS. 3 or 10), the edges (eg, first attachment area 491a and second attachment area 491b) of the display may be directly attached to rigid structures (eg, the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 in FIGS. 1 to 3). According to an embodiment, in areas (eg, contact areas 493a and 493b in FIG. 10) of the display that are intended to be curved, third sealing elements (eg, third sealing elements 481a and 481b in FIG. 9 or 11) may form a sealing structure . For example, the entire edge of the display 130 may be directly attached to the rigid structures to thereby form a seal structure, but, in portions of the display 130 that are to be curved, third seal members 481a and 481b may form a seal structure. According to an embodiment, zones (eg, first attachment zone 491a and second attachment zone 491b in FIG. 10) attached to rigid structures at the edge of the display 130, and zones (eg, contact zones 493a and 493b in FIG. 10) which contact the third sealing elements 481a and 481b can be combined to form a closed curve. For example, the path that foreign bodies may take between the display 130 and the rigid structure may be blocked.

[0113] FIG. 13 is a plan view illustrating a hinge cover (eg, hinge cover 165 in FIGS. 1 to 3) in a portable communications device or electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. .

[0114] Referring to FIG. 13, the electronic device 100 may further include a first adhesive layer 581 provided in the interior of the electronic device 100. The first adhesive layer 581 may include an adhesive and it allows foreign bodies that are present or move within or around the electronic device , stick to it. For example, the first adhesive layer 581 may prevent foreign bodies from freely moving or contaminating internal components within the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, the first adhesive layer 581 may be formed on the inner surface of a hinge cover (eg, hinge cover 165 in FIG. 1 to 3). For example, an adhesive may be directly applied to the interior of the hinge cover 165, or an adhesive-applied film-type base material may be affixed, in an appropriate position, to the interior of the electronic device, thereby forming a first adhesive layer 581.

[0115] According to an embodiment, the structures, such as the first body structure 110, the second body structure 120, the hinge structure 164a, the first hinge plate 164b, and the second hinge plate 164c, may frequently move or rotate relative to each other around the hinge cover 165 . The arrangement of the above-described first sealing member 181, the second sealing member 182, and the third sealing members 481a and 481b can largely block the entry of foreign bodies, but there is a chance of foreign bodies entering due to the relative movement of the structures. According to an embodiment, a first adhesive layer 581 may be provided on the inner surface of the hinge cover 165, and foreign bodies trapped around the hinge cover 165, if any, may adhere to the first adhesive layer 581. For example, the first adhesive layer 581 may be provided to stop the movement of foreign bodies, thereby preventing contamination or destruction of mechanical or electronic components within the electronic device 100.

[0116] FIG. 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 are sectional views illustrating a modified first sealing element or second sealing element in a portable communications device or electronic device in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 14 and 15, the first sealing element 681 may be located on the curved surface 265a of the first housing structure 110, and the second sealing element 682 may be located on the curved surface 265b of the second housing structure 120. In accordance with an embodiment, the first sealing element 681 and the second sealing member 682 may be shaped to partially protrude, and they may be at least partially in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, upon contact with the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165, the first sealing element 681 and the second sealing element 682 can be compressed and accumulate elastic force. For example, the first sealing element 681 and the second sealing element 682 may seal the gap formed between the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165 and each curved surface 265a and 265b, stopping foreign bodies (such as dust, chips, or other particulate matter) from entering the electronic device from the outside. 100 (for example, the electronic device 100 in Fig. 1 to 3). As the electronic device 100 is folded or unfolded, the first sealing member 681 and the second sealing member 682 may slide and contact the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165 and may include a low friction material such as fabric or lubricant material. high molecular weight polymer, preventing noise or wear.

[0118] According to an embodiment, the hinge structure (for example, the hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3), from a design point of view, may be a combination of a plurality of gears, and the hinge structure may couple the first hinge plate 164b and the second hinge plate 164c to they could rotate relative to each other. According to an embodiment, the hinge structure 164a may be coupled to the first hinge plate 164b or the second hinge plate 164c via a coupling portion 464d in FIG. 11. In the sectional view of FIG. 14, when the hinge structure 164a includes an even number of gears, the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 can rotate in the opposite direction relative to each other. For example, in FIG. 14, when the first body structure 110 is rotated clockwise on the hinge structure 164a, the second body structure 120 can be rotated counterclockwise on the hinge structure 164a.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 16 and 17, each of the first sealing element 781 and the second sealing element 782 may be mounted on the curved surface 265b of the second housing structure 120. According to an embodiment, the electronic device (for example, the electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) may further include intersecting elements 783 located at two opposite edges of the hinge cover 165. The intersecting members 783 may extend in a longitudinal direction (eg, the y direction in FIG. 3) and may be mounted or attached to the hinge cover 165. For example, intersecting elements 783 may extend generally in the y direction in FIG. 3 and be located on the hinge cover 165 parallel to the first sealing element 781 or the second sealing element 782. As shown in FIG. 16, intersecting elements 783 may intersect with the first sealing element 781 and the second sealing element 782 in a first position.

[0120] In accordance with an embodiment, the intersecting elements 783 may include elastic material and, when intersecting the first sealing element 781 or the second sealing element 782, they can be compressed thereby increasing the elastic force. For example, at least in the first position, the intersecting members 783 may stably provide a sealing structure formed between the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165 and each curved surface 265a and 265b. When intersecting with intersecting elements 783, the first sealing element 781 and the second sealing element 782 may also be compressed, accumulating elastic force.

[0121] According to an embodiment, in the first position, the first sealing element 781 and the second sealing element 782 may be in contact or intersection with the intersecting elements 783, in the same size as the first zone. When the first body structure and/or the second body structure (for example, the first body structure 110 and/or the second body structure 120 in FIGS. 1 to 3) are rotated to unfold, the first sealing element 781 and the second sealing element 782 may come into contact or intimate contact with the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165, in the same size as the second zone. While in contact or close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165, the first sealing element 781 and the second sealing element 782 may add less elastic force than when intersecting the intersecting elements 783. In accordance with an embodiment, the second zone (e.g. the area of contact, or tight contact, with the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165) may be larger than the first area (eg, the area of contact or intersection with intersecting elements 783). For example, even without intersecting the intersecting elements 783, the first sealing element 781 and the second sealing element 782 can provide a stable sealing structure between the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165 and each curved surface 265a and 265b.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 18, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) may include a second adhesive layer 883 formed in the first housing structure 110 or the second housing structure 120. The second adhesive layer 883 may include an adhesive material, applied to a curved surface (e.g., curved surface 265a or 265b in FIG. 4) of the first body structure 110 or the second body structure 120. In accordance with an embodiment, the second adhesive layer 883, along with the first adhesive layer 581, may provide adhesion thereto foreign bodies that are present or move in the space surrounded by at least the hinge cover 165. For example, the second adhesive layer 883 may prevent foreign matter from moving freely, or contaminating internal components within the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, the second adhesive layer 883 may be formed by directly applying an adhesive material to the curved surface 265a or 265b, or by attaching base material such as film with applied adhesive material.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 19, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 to 3) may include a third adhesive layer 981 formed in the first housing structure 110 or the second housing structure 120. The third adhesive layer 981 may include an adhesive material, applied to a curved surface (eg, curved surface 265a or 265b in FIG. 4) of the first body structure or the second body structure 120. According to an embodiment, the third adhesive layer 981 may be formed substantially over the entire curved surface 265a or 265b. For example, the first sealing element or the second sealing element (for example, the first sealing element 181 or the second sealing element 182) may be omitted, and a portion of the third adhesive layer 981 may be located in at least a portion of the area in which the first sealing element 181 or the second sealing element sealing element 182 in FIG. 4 are attached to curved surface 265a or 265b. The third adhesive layer 981, along with the first adhesive layer 581, can provide adhesion to foreign bodies that are present or move in the space surrounded by at least the hinge cover 165. For example, the second adhesive layer 883 may prevent foreign matter from moving freely, or contaminating internal components within the electronic device 100. According to an embodiment, the second adhesive layer 883 may be formed by directly applying an adhesive material to the curved surface 265a or 265b, or by attaching base material such as film with applied adhesive material. According to an embodiment, a gap G of about 0.1mm may be formed between the third adhesive layer 981 and the hinge cover 165. For example, the third adhesive layer 981 may allow foreign bodies entering the interior space (eg, the space at least partially surrounded by the hinge cover 165) to adhere thereto without directly contacting the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 100 is deformed between the first position and the second position, the third adhesive layer 981 can move around the hinge cover 165 while facing a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165.

[0124] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view illustrating another example of a structure in which the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 is mounted in a portable communications device or electronic device (for example, electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 or 2) in accordance with an embodiment implementation of the invention. Fig. 21 is a plan view illustrating a structure in which a first sealing element or a second sealing element is provided in a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 20 and 21, each of the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may be mounted on a respective one of two opposite ends of the hinge cover 165. Here, the “edge (or perimeter) of the hinge cover 165” may be interpreted to include the edge or perimeter of one surface or area of the hinge cover 165 facing the front surface of the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 100 in FIG. 1), with the housing structures (eg, the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 in FIG. 1) laid out as shown in FIG. 1. As described with reference to FIG. 22 or 23, a portion of the first sealing member 1081 or a portion of the second sealing member 1082 may protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may seal gaps between the hinge cover 165 and the body structures 110 and 120 without being primarily located between the body structures 110 and 120 (e.g., curved surfaces 265a and 265b in FIG. 4) and hinge cover 165.

[0126] According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may be secured to the hinge cover 165 by attaching, fusing, or welding. According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may be secured to the hinge cover 165 through a fastening structure, such as a snap structure or a screw. In accordance with an embodiment, the hinge cover 165 may have slot(s) extending in its longitudinal direction, and the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may be secured, partially inserted into the slot formed in the hinge cover 165.

[0127] According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may be a plate of rigid material formed from, for example, a metal, such as stainless steel. According to an embodiment, when the first housing structure 110 or the second housing structure 120 is rotated, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may slide and contact an internal surface (for example, a curved surface 265a or 265b in FIG. 4) of the first housing structure. 110 or the second body structure 120. In the sliding and contacting structure with the curved surface 265a or 265b, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may be formed from a synthetic resin, such as an acetal resin with excellent mechanical strength and lubricity. According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may include silicone, a sponge, or a fabric surrounding the sponge.

[0128] FIG. 22 and 23 are sectional views illustrating a modified first sealing element 1081 or a second sealing element 1082 in a portable communications device or electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 and 2) in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 22 and 23, the first body structure 110 or the second body structure 120 may include fold(s) 110e or 120e at an edge portion thereof, for example, at the edge of a curved surface 265a or 265b. According to an embodiment, the folds 110e and 120e may be arranged to be substantially symmetrical to each other and may be aligned substantially parallel to the radius of curvature direction of the curved surface 265a or 265b or the radius of curvature direction of the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165. For example, if the curved surface 265a or 265b or the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165 extends in the circumferential direction relative to the folding axis A (for example, the folding axis A in FIG. 1), then the ends of the folds 110e and 120e may be configured to face the folding axis A.

[0130] According to an embodiment, in the sectional view of FIG. 22 or 23, the first sealing member 1081 and the second sealing member 1082 are mounted on two opposite upper edges of the hinge cover 165, and a portion of the first sealing member 1081 or the second sealing member 1082 may protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, in the state of the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 folded facing each other, for example, in the first position in FIG. 2, the first sealing element 1081 may be positioned to closely contact the first fold 110e of the folds 110e and 120e, and the second sealing element 1082 may be positioned to tightly contact the second fold 120e of the folds 110e and 120e. According to an embodiment, sealing elements 1081 and 1082 may be positioned to seal gaps between the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165 and the folds 110e and 120e. For example, in the first position, the first sealing element 1081 may seal the gap between the end of the first fold 110e and the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165, and the second sealing element 1082 may seal the gap between the end of the second fold 120e and the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, a portion of one surface of the first sealing element 1081 may be in close contact with the hinge cover 165, and another portion of the surface of the first sealing element 1081 may be in close contact with the first body structure 110, such as the first fold 110e. Similar to the first sealing element 1081, a portion of one surface of the second sealing element 1082 may be in close contact with the hinge cover 165, and another portion of the surface of the second sealing element 1082 may be in close contact with the second body structure 120, such as the first fold 120e. According to an embodiment, in a state of the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 laid out side by side, for example, in the second position in FIG. 1, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may contact the first hinge plate 164b or the second hinge plate 164c. For example, in the second position, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may seal the gap between the hinge plate 164b or 164c and the hinge cover 165.

[0131] Thus, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 at least in the first position or the second position can seal the internal space (for example, the space in which the folding axis A is located) of the hinge cover 165 from another space. According to an embodiment, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may slide and contact an internal surface (e.g., curved surface 265a or 265b) of the first housing structure 110 or the second housing structure 120. For example, when the housing structures 110 and 120 rotate on each other, the first sealing element 1081 or the second sealing element 1082 may be in sliding contact with the curved surface 265a or 265b, sealing the gap between the hinge cover 165 and the curved surface 265a or 265b.

[0132] FIG. 24 and 25 are sectional views illustrating a modified portable communications device or electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 or 2) in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 24 and 25, the electronic device may include dummy members 1181 and 1182 (eg, seal members 1081 and 1082 in FIGS. 20 to 23) provided in the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, dummy members 1181 and 1182 may be formed integrally with, or separate from, hinge cover 165 and, if formed separately from hinge cover 165, dummy members 1181 and 1182 may be assembled with or attached to hinge cover 165 . According to an embodiment, the dummy members 1181 and 1182, although similar to the sealing members (e.g., sealing members 1081 and 1082 in FIG. 23) in the above embodiments, may not contact the first housing structure 110 or the second housing structure 120. For example, in a first position, dummy members 1181 and 1182 may be positioned to face the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 to partially obscure gaps (e.g., first gaps G1) between the hinge cover 165 and the body structures 110 and 120 or, with predefined gaps (eg second gaps G2) left between them. Thus, some portions of the dummy members 1181 and 1182, at least in a first position, may conceal gaps between the hinge cover 165 and the housing structures 110 and 120, and other portions of the dummy members 1181 and 1182 may be positioned to face internal surfaces of the housing structures. 110 and 120.

[0134] The first gaps G1 may be formed to be small enough to prevent foreign bodies from entering from the outside. However, the invention is not limited to such a specific embodiment and, as described above in connection with the above embodiments, the dummy members 1181 and 1182 may seal gaps formed between the hinge cover 165 and the housing structures 110 and 120. The first gap G1 may be the distance between the hinge cover 165 and the housing structures 110 and 120. 165 hinge and the first body structure 110 (or the second body structure 120), which is measured in the horizontal direction in FIG. 24, and the first gap G1 can be about 0.05mm. However, the first gap G1 between the hinge cover 165 and the body structure 110 or 120 is not limited to a particular value. For example, the first gap G1 can be designed with different values to accommodate rotation of the housing structures 110 and 120 or to stop the penetration of foreign bodies.

[0135] According to an embodiment, the dummy members 1181 and 1182 may be, for example, metal plates and may include a first dummy member 1181 mounted on a side edge of the hinge cover 165 and a second dummy member 1182 mounted on an opposite side edge thereof. edge of the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, the first dummy member 1181 and the second dummy member 1182 may partially extend outward from the hinge cover 165. For example, when viewed from the outside of the hinge cover 165 in a first position (e.g., the state as shown in FIG. 5) in which the first body structure 110 and the second body structure 120 are folded to face each other, a portion of the first dummy member 1181 may be visible from the outside through a gap, for example, the first gap G1, between the hinge cover 165 and the first housing structure. According to an embodiment, when viewed from the outside of the hinge cover 165 in the first position, a portion of the second dummy member 1182 may be visible from the outside through the gap between the hinge cover 165 and the second housing structure 120. For example, the first dummy member 1181 and the second dummy member 1182 may each at least partially conceal the gaps between the hinge cover 165 and the housing structures 110 and 120. In accordance with an embodiment, the first dummy member 1181 and the second dummy member 1182 can at least partially block foreign bodies entering from the outside through the gaps (e.g., the first gaps G1 ). In this embodiment, the first dummy element 1181 or the second dummy element 1182 is visible from the outside through the first gap G, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, when the end of the first fold 110e is shaped to include an inclined surface or a curved surface corresponding to the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165, there may be gaps between the hinge cover 165 and the housing structures 110 and 120, but the first dummy member 1181 or the second dummy member element 1182 may not be visible from the outside. According to an embodiment, the first gaps G1 may be small enough not to be identified by the naked eye, although gaps are present between the hinge cover 165 and the housing structures 110 and 120, the first dummy member 1181 or the second dummy member 1182 may be invisible from the outside.

[0136] According to an embodiment, in a first position, a portion of the first dummy member 1181 may be positioned facing an inner surface (e.g., the first flange 110e in FIG. 23) of the first body structure 110. For example, in a first position, a portion of the first dummy member member 1181 and the inner surface of the first body structure 110 may be arranged to face each other while leaving a second gap G2 between them. The second gap G2 may be the distance between the first dummy member 1181 and the first housing structure 110, as measured in the vertical direction in FIG. 24, which may be about 0.13mm. According to an embodiment, in a first position, the second dummy member 1182 may be positioned facing the inner surface of the second body structure 120 while leaving a second gap G2. The specific values for the second gap G2 between the first dummy member 1181 and the first housing structure 110 or between the second dummy member 1182 and the second housing structure 120 are merely exemplary and the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the second gap G2 can be designed with different values to accommodate rotation of the housing structures 110 and 120 or to stop the penetration of foreign bodies. In accordance with an embodiment, as described above in connection with the above embodiments, the first dummy member 1181 or the second dummy member 1182 may come into contact with the inner surface of the first housing structure 110 or the second housing structure 120, sealing the gap between the hinge cover 165 and the housing design 110 or 120.

[0137] According to an embodiment, an embodiment including dummy elements 1181 and 1182 in combination with sealing elements (eg, third sealing elements 481a and 481b) in FIG. 9 to 12 may be located in an electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in Fig. 1 or 2). Although the dummy members 1181 and 1182 include metal plates as an example in the present embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the dummy members 1181 and 1182 may be formed from an elastic material, such as sponge or rubber, or a film of synthetic resin that is rigid but thin enough to provide flexibility. According to an embodiment, the dummy members 1181 and 1182 may be formed from a composite material or at least two of a metal plate, an elastic material, and a synthetic resin film.

[0138] FIG. 26 is a sectional view illustrating a modified portable communications device or electronic device (eg, electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 or 2) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 26, in the first position, a third gap G3 may be formed between the hinge cover 165 and each body structure 110 and 120. The third gap G3 may be smaller than the first gap G1 in FIG. 24, and the third gap G3 may be, for example, about 0.03mm. In accordance with an embodiment, to form a third gap G3 smaller than the first gap G1, the housing structure 110 or 120 (eg, the first housing structure 110) may include a first projection 110f, and the hinge cover 165 may include a second projection 1281. B first position, the first protrusion 110f may be positioned adjacent to the second protrusion 1281, and the third gap G3 may generally mean a distance between the first protrusion 110f and the second protrusion 1281.

[0140] According to an embodiment, the first protrusion 110f (or the second protrusion 1281) may be in the form of a metal forming the first body structure 110 (or the hinge cover 165). According to an embodiment, the first protrusion 110f (or the second protrusion 1281) may be a portion of a painted or coated layer and may be formed on the surface of the metal forming the first body structure 110 (or the hinge cover 165). According to an embodiment, the first protrusion 110f (or second protrusion 1281) may be formed by further painting or coating a desired portion (e.g., the edge of the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover 165) on the surface of the metal forming the first body structure 110 (or cover 165). hinge). According to an embodiment, the first protrusion 110f may be formed from a synthetic resin by bonding (eg, welding) to another metal member of the first body structure 110 or by insert casting. According to an embodiment, when the first body structure 110 is formed from a synthetic resin, the first protrusion 110f can be formed from a synthetic resin through double injection molding. According to an embodiment, the first protrusion 110f may include a band or member attached to the first body structure 110 or the second body structure 120 via the band. For example, the first protrusion 110f may protrude from the inner surface of the first body structure 110 by the thickness of the tape and/or the tape-attached member. In accordance with an embodiment, the element attached by the tape may include an injection molded product or a metal structure.

[0141] FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating a modified sealing member in a portable communication device or electronic device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 27, the first sealing element 1381 or the second sealing element 1382 may extend or be positioned in the longitudinal Y direction and may be mounted on the hinge cover 165. As set forth above, in accordance with an embodiment, the first sealing element 1381 or the second sealing element 1382 may be integrally formed with the hinge cover 165. Even though Fig. 27 illustrates that the first sealing element 1381 and the second sealing element 1382 are separate components arranged symmetrically to each other, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the first sealing element 1381 and the second sealing element 1382 may be formed integrally with each other and may be attached along the edge of the hinge cover 165. According to an embodiment, the first sealing member 1381 and the second sealing member 1382 may be shaped to form a closed curve and may be attached along the edge of the hinge cover 165.

[0143] According to an embodiment, third sealing elements 1383a and 1383b may be attached to the inner surface of the hinge cover 165, at two opposite ends of the longitudinal direction Y. According to an embodiment, third sealing elements 1383a and 1383b may be positioned to form closed path curves with the first sealing element 1381 and the second sealing element 1382. According to an embodiment, when the first sealing element 1381 and the second sealing element 1382 are formed together as a unit or are shaped to form a closed curve, the third sealing elements 1383a and 1383b may be at least partially located in an area surrounded by the first sealing element 1381 and the second sealing element 1382.

[0144] According to an embodiment, when implementing an actual product, the above-described embodiments may be combined together or replaced. For example, sealing elements 181 and 182 located in housing structures 110 and 120 in FIG. 4 may be replaced by sealing members 1081 and 1082 in FIG. 20 or dummy elements 1181 and 1182 in FIG. 24. According to an embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 100 in FIGS. 1 through 3) may include sealing elements 181 and 182 located in housing structures 110 and 120, and sealing elements 1081 and 1082 or dummy elements 1181 and 1182 located on the hinge cover 165. Selected ones of sealing elements 181, 182, 1081, 1082, 1181, and 1182 may be combined with selected ones of third sealing elements 481a, 481b, 1383a, and 1383b in FIG. 9 or 27, forming a sealing structure between the hinge cover and the housing structure 110 or 120, or between the hinge cover and the display.

[0145] As set forth above, in accordance with an embodiment, a portable communications device or electronic device (e.g., electronic device 100, 200, or 300 in FIGS. 1 to 8) comprises: a housing including a first housing structure (e.g., a first body structure 110 in FIGS. 1 to 3), a second body structure (e.g., a second body structure 120 in FIGS. 1 through 3), and a hinge cover (for example, a hinge cover 165 in FIGS. 1 through 3) located between at least a portion of the first hull structure and at least a portion of the second hull structure; a flexible display that is at least partially housed in a housing and includes a first portion (e.g., first portion 131a in FIG. 2 or 10) corresponding to the first housing structure, a second portion (e.g., second portion 131b in FIG. 2 or 10 ), corresponding to the second body structure, and a third portion (for example, the folding portion 131c in Fig. 2 or 10) corresponding to the hinge cover; a hinge structure (eg, hinge structure 164a in FIG. 3) located between the third flexible display portion and the hinge cover, and connected to the first housing structure and the second housing structure; and at least one sealing member (eg, third sealing member 481a and 481b in FIGS. 9, 11 or 12) disposed between the third flexible display portion and the hinge cover and in contact with the hinge cover.

[0146] According to an embodiment, the portable communications device or electronic device may further comprise a first sealing element (eg, first sealing element 181, 281, or 381 in FIGS. 3 through 8) located between the first housing structure and the hinge cover.

[0147] According to an embodiment, the first sealing element may be positioned to contact the first housing structure.

[0148] According to an embodiment, the first sealing element may be positioned to contact the hinge cover.

[0149] According to an embodiment, the portable communications device or electronic device may further comprise a second sealing element (e.g., second sealing element 182, 282, or 382 in FIGS. 3 through 8) located between the second housing structure and the hinge cover.

[0150] In accordance with an embodiment, the second sealing element may be positioned to contact the second housing structure.

[0151] According to an embodiment, the sealing member may be positioned to contact the third portion when the third portion of the flexible display is at least partially folded.

[0152] According to an embodiment, the sealing member may be deformed according to the shape of the third portion when the third portion of the flexible display is at least partially folded.

[0153] According to an embodiment, the sealing element may include a sponge.

[0154] According to an embodiment, the bottom and side surface of the sealing element may contact the hinge cover.

[0155] According to an embodiment, the portable communications device or electronic device includes: a first housing structure, a second housing structure rotatable between a first position folded to face the first housing structure and a second position expanded parallel to a side of the first housing structure ; a hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing structure and the second housing structure; a hinge cover located between the first body structure and the second body structure to cover the hinge structure; a display including a first portion located in the first cabinet structure, a second portion located in the second cabinet structure, and a folding portion provided between the first portion and the second portion and positioned in correspondence with the hinge cover; and at least one sealing member mounted on the hinge cover to block foreign bodies from entering between the hinge cover and the display, the sealing member being in close contact with an edge of the display.

[0156] In accordance with an embodiment, a portable communications device or electronic device may include a pair of sealing elements, each of which is located in a respective one of two opposite ends of the hinge cover.

[0157] According to an embodiment, the portable communications device or electronic device may further comprise a first sealing element located between the first housing structure and the hinge cover.

[0158] According to an embodiment, the first sealing element may be positioned to contact the first housing structure.

[0159] According to an embodiment, the portable communications device or electronic device may further comprise a second sealing element located between the second housing structure and the hinge cover.

[0160] According to an embodiment, the first sealing element may be located in the first housing structure, and the second sealing element may be located in the second housing structure. When the first body structure and the second body structure are rotated, the first sealing member and the second sealing member may be in sliding contact with the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover.

[0161] According to an embodiment, the first sealing member or the second sealing member includes a body (eg, body 281a and 282a in FIG. 7) formed from a sponge, and a shell layer (eg, shell layer 281b and 282b in FIG. 7) formed from fabric material and provided to surround the body.

[0162] According to an embodiment, the at least one sealing element may be positioned to contact the folding portion when the folding portion is at least partially folded.

[0163] According to an embodiment, the at least one sealing element may be deformed in accordance with the shape of the folding portion when the folding portion is at least partially folded.

[0164] According to an embodiment, the display may include a first attachment zone (e.g., first attachment zone 491a in FIG. 10) provided along an edge of the first portion and attached to the first housing structure, a second attachment zone (e.g., a second zone attachment 491b in Fig. 10) provided at the edge of the second portion and attached to the second body structure, and a plurality of contact areas (for example, contact areas 493a and 493b in Fig. 10) provided at two opposite ends of the folding portion and contacting at least with one sealing element, and the first attachment zone, the second attachment zone and a plurality of contact zones can be combined to form a closed curve.

[0165] In accordance with an embodiment, the first sealing element and the second sealing element each comprise an elastic material, the elastic material including at least one of rubber, silicone, sponge, polycarbonate, or Teflon™.

[0166] According to an embodiment, each of the first sealing element and the second sealing element comprises a low friction material to reduce contact noise or wear, and the low friction material includes at least one of a fabric or a lubricant high molecular weight polymer.

[0167] According to an embodiment, at least one sealing element extends in the longitudinal direction of the portable communication device.

[0168] While the invention has been shown and described by reference to its various embodiments, those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that various changes in form and detail may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims (30)

1. A portable communication device containing: housing including: the first hull structure, a second body structure rotatable relative to the first body structure, and a hinge cover located between at least a portion of the first body structure and at least a portion of the second body structure; a flexible display that is at least partially housed in a housing and includes: a first portion corresponding to the first hull structure, and a second section corresponding to the second hull structure; a hinge structure connected to the first body structure and the second body structure, wherein the first body structure includes: a portion defining an inner surface configured to surround the hinge cover portion when the housing is deployed, and a first protrusion projecting from a portion of the first body structure, wherein the first protrusion protruding inwardly towards the hinge cover is configured to form a gap between the end of the first protrusion and the outer surface of the hinge cover. 2. The portable communications device of claim 1, wherein the hinge cover includes at least one second protrusion configured to be positioned adjacent the first protrusion to form a gap in a folded state in which the second housing structure is folded such that be facing the first hull structure. 3. The portable communication device of claim 1, wherein the first protrusion includes at least one of a colored layer, a coated layer, or a synthetic resin formed on a surface of the first housing structure or the second housing structure. 4. The portable communication device according to claim 1, wherein the gap is smaller than the gap between an outer surface of the hinge cover and a portion of the first housing structure. 5. Portable communication device according to claim 1, also containing: a first sealing element located on the inner surface of the first body and located adjacent to the first protrusion, wherein the first sealing element is configured to contact the outer surface of the hinge cover. 6. The portable communications device of claim 5, wherein the first sealing element includes fabric, a high polymer lubricant, or a sponge. 7. A portable communications device according to claim 1, wherein the second housing structure includes: another portion defining an inner surface configured to surround the hinge cover portion when the housing is deployed, and a third protrusion extending from another portion of the second body structure, wherein the third protrusion protruding inwardly towards the hinge cover is configured to form a second gap between the end of the third protrusion and the outer surface of the hinge cover. 8. Portable communication device according to claim 7, also containing: a second sealing element located on the inner surface of the second body and located adjacent to the third protrusion, wherein the second sealing element is configured to contact the outer circumferential surface of the hinge cover. 9. The portable communications device of claim 8, wherein the second sealing element includes fabric, a high polymer lubricant, or a sponge. 10. The portable communication device of claim 8, wherein the third protrusion is movable along an outer surface of the hinge cover during a folding operation or an unfolding operation of the housing. 11. The portable communications device of claim 10, wherein the second gap is less than a gap between an outer surface of the hinge cover and another portion of the second housing structure. 12. The portable communication device of claim 1, wherein the first protrusion is movable along an outer surface of the hinge cover during a folding operation or an unfolding operation of the housing.