WO2024049077A1

WO2024049077A1 - Electronic device comprising hinge-fastening structure

Info

Publication number: WO2024049077A1
Application number: PCT/KR2023/012355
Authority: WO
Inventors: 황지수
Original assignee: 삼성전자주식회사
Priority date: 2022-09-02
Filing date: 2023-08-21
Publication date: 2024-03-07

Abstract

An electronic device according to one described embodiment may comprise: a flexible display which includes a first display area, a second display area and a third display area extending from the first display area to the second display area, and which provides a first state in which a first direction, in which the first display area faces, corresponds to a second direction, in which the second display area faces, and a second state in which the first direction is opposite to the second direction; a first housing for supporting the first display area; a second housing which supports the second display area and which is spaced apart from the first housing; and a hinge assembly including a hinge structure which can move in the first state with respect to the first housing and the second housing, and which provides a folding shaft for folding the third display area. Other various embodiments are possible.

Description

Electronic device comprising a hinge fastening structure

Embodiments to be described later relate to electronic devices including a hinge fastening structure.

In order to increase the portability of electronic devices, electronic devices may provide various types of displays. For example, an electronic device may include a foldable flexible display, thereby providing a structure in which the size of the display can be changed.

According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a first display area, a second display area, and a third display area extending from the first display area to the second display area, and toward which the first display area faces. A flexible display configured to provide a plurality of states including a first state in which the first direction corresponds to a second direction in which the second display area faces and a second state in which the first direction is opposite to the second direction. It can be included. The electronic device may further include a first housing supporting the first display area, and a second housing supporting the second display area and being spaced apart from the first housing. The electronic device is movable with respect to the first housing and the second housing, and includes a first support plate and a second support plate for supporting the third display area, and the second support plate is connected to the first support plate. It may further include a hinge assembly supporting the third display area, including a hinge structure rotatably connected to the display area. Folding of the third display area, wherein the hinge structure moves along the hinge assembly that moves relative to the first housing and the second housing based on the first state among the plurality of states. It may be configured to provide a folding axis.

According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a first display area, a second display area, and a third display area extending from the first display area to the second display area, and toward which the first display area faces. A flexible display configured to provide a plurality of states including a first state in which the first direction corresponds to a second direction in which the second display area faces and a second state in which the first direction is opposite to the second direction. It can be included. The electronic device may further include a first housing supporting the first display area, and a second housing supporting the second display area and being spaced apart from the first housing. The electronic device includes a first support plate that is movable relative to the first housing and the second housing, at least a portion of which is disposed within the first housing, a second support plate that is at least partially disposed within the second housing, and a hinge assembly supporting the third display area, including a hinge structure rotatably connecting the second support plate to the first support plate. The size of the hinge assembly may be larger than the size of the third display area. Folding of the third display area, wherein the hinge structure moves along the hinge assembly that moves relative to the first housing and the second housing based on the first state among the plurality of states. It may be configured to provide a folding axis.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment.

2A shows an example of an unfolded state of an electronic device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2B shows an example of a folded state of an electronic device, according to one embodiment.

Figure 2C is an exploded view of an electronic device, according to one embodiment.

3 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary electronic device with the display exploded.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are enlarged views of a portion of the exemplary electronic device of FIG. 3 .

4C shows a portion of an example electronic device in an unfolded state.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the operation of an example electronic device where the folding axis f is disposed on the first axis f1 of FIG. 3 .

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the operation of an example electronic device where the folding axis f is disposed on the second axis f2 of FIG. 3 .

7 shows a portion of an example electronic device in an unfolded state.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment, according to one embodiment.

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

The processor 120, for example, executes software (e.g., program 140) to operate at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 connected to the processor 120. It can be controlled and various data processing or operations can be performed. According to one embodiment, as at least part of data processing or computation, the processor 120 stores commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 176 or communication module 190) in volatile memory 132. The commands or data stored in the volatile memory 132 can be processed, and the resulting data can be stored in the non-volatile memory 134. According to one embodiment, the processor 120 includes a main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor 123 that can operate independently or together (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural network processing unit ( It may include a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device 101 includes a main processor 121 and a auxiliary processor 123, the auxiliary processor 123 may be set to use lower power than the main processor 121 or be specialized for a designated function. You can. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented separately from the main processor 121 or as part of it.

The auxiliary processor 123 may, for example, act on behalf of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or while the main processor 121 is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. ), together with the main processor 121, at least one of the components of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the display module 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190) At least some of the functions or states related to can be controlled. According to one embodiment, co-processor 123 (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module 180 or communication module 190). there is. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (eg, neural network processing device) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. Artificial intelligence models can be created through machine learning. For example, such learning may be performed in the electronic device 101 itself, where artificial intelligence is performed, or may be performed through a separate server (e.g., server 108). Learning algorithms may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but It is not limited. An artificial intelligence model may include multiple artificial neural network layers. Artificial neural networks include deep neural network (DNN), convolutional neural network (CNN), recurrent neural network (RNN), restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), belief deep network (DBN), bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), It may be one of deep Q-networks or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to hardware structures, artificial intelligence models may additionally or alternatively include software structures.

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

The program 140 may be stored as software in the memory 130 and may include, for example, an operating system 142, middleware 144, or application 146.

The input module 150 may receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the processor 120) from outside the electronic device 101 (e.g., a user). The input module 150 may include, for example, a microphone, mouse, keyboard, keys (eg, buttons), or digital pen (eg, stylus pen).

The sound output module 155 may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output module 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. Speakers can be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of it.

The display module 160 can visually provide information to the outside of the electronic device 101 (eg, a user). The display module 160 may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector, and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module 160 may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of force generated by the touch.

The audio module 170 can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module 170 acquires sound through the input module 150, the sound output module 155, or an external electronic device (e.g., directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101). Sound may be output through the electronic device 102 (e.g., speaker or headphone).

The sensor module 176 detects the operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generates an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. can do. According to one embodiment, the sensor module 176 includes, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, It may include a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or light sensor.

The interface 177 may support one or more designated protocols that can be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device 101 to an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102). According to one embodiment, the interface 177 may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

The connection terminal 178 may include a connector through which the electronic device 101 can be physically connected to an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal 178 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (eg, a headphone connector).

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

The camera module 180 can capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module 188 can manage power supplied to the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the power management module 188 may be implemented as at least a part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

Battery 189 may supply power to at least one component of electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the battery 189 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

Communication module 190 is configured to provide a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between electronic device 101 and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108). It can support establishment and communication through established communication channels. Communication module 190 operates independently of processor 120 (e.g., an application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module 190 may be a wireless communication module 192 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 194 (e.g., : LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module) may be included. Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module is a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network 199 (e.g., legacy It may communicate with an external electronic device 104 through a telecommunication network such as a cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or may be implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module 192 uses subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module 196 to communicate within a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199. The electronic device 101 can be confirmed or authenticated.

The wireless communication module 192 may support 5G networks after 4G networks and next-generation communication technologies, for example, NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology provides high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and access to multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low latency). -latency communications)) can be supported. The wireless communication module 192 may support a high frequency band (eg, mmWave band), for example, to achieve a high data rate. The wireless communication module 192 uses various technologies to secure performance in high frequency bands, for example, beamforming, massive array multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), and full-dimensional multiplexing. It can support technologies such as input/output (FD-MIMO: full dimensional MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module 192 may support various requirements specified in the electronic device 101, an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 104), or a network system (e.g., second network 199). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 supports Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mmTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing URLLC. Example: Downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each of 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) can be supported.

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

According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, a mmWave antenna module includes a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to one side (e.g., bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and It may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to another side (e.g., top or side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high frequency band. there is.

At least some of the components are connected to each other through a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)) and signal ( (e.g. commands or data) can be exchanged with each other.

According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 through the server 108 connected to the second network 199. Each of the external

electronic devices

102 or 104 may be of the same or different type as the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed in the electronic device 101 may be executed in one or more of the external

electronic devices

102, 104, or 108. For example, when the electronic device 101 needs to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 101 may perform the function or service instead of executing the function or service on its own. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more external electronic devices may be requested to perform at least part of the function or service. One or more external electronic devices that have received the request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least part of a response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology can be used. The electronic device 101 may provide an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device 104 may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. Server 108 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device 104 or server 108 may be included in the second network 199. The electronic device 101 may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

2A shows an example of an unfolded state of an electronic device, according to one embodiment. FIG. 2B shows an example of a folded state of an electronic device, according to one embodiment. Figure 2C is an exploded view of an electronic device, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, the electronic device 101 may include a housing 200 and a flexible display panel 230. The housing 200 may include a first housing 210 and a second housing 220.

According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 includes a first face 211, a second face 212 facing away from the first face 211, and a first face 211 and It may include a first side 213 surrounding at least a portion of the second side 212. According to one embodiment, the second surface 212 may further include at least one camera 234 exposed through a portion of the second surface 212. According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 may include a first protective member 214 disposed along the edge of the first surface 211. According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 uses the space formed by the first surface 211, the second surface 212, and the side surface 213 to mount the components of the electronic device 101. A space for this can be provided. According to one embodiment, the first side 213 and the second side 223 may include a conductive material, a non-conductive material, or a combination thereof. For example, the second side 223 may include a conductive member 228 and a non-conductive member 229. The conductive member 228 may include a plurality of conductive members, and the plurality of conductive members may be spaced apart from each other. The non-conductive member 229 may be disposed between a plurality of conductive members. An antenna structure may be formed by some or a combination of a plurality of conductive members and a plurality of non-conductive members.

According to one embodiment, the second housing 220 has a third side 221, a fourth side 222 facing away from the third side 221, and a third side 221 and a fourth side ( It may include a second side 223 surrounding at least a portion of 222). According to one embodiment, the fourth side 222 may further include a display panel 235 disposed on the fourth side 222. The camera 226 may be arranged inside the second housing 220 to face the fourth side 222 so as to acquire an external image through the fourth side 222. The camera 226 may be disposed below the display panel 235 and obscured by the display panel 235 . According to one embodiment, the camera 226 is disposed below the display panel 235, and the display panel 235 is aligned with the lens of the camera 226 to transmit light from the outside to the camera 226. May include an opening. According to one embodiment, each of the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 may include a first protective member 214 and a second protective member 224, respectively. The first protective member 214 and the second protective member 224 may be disposed on the first surface 211 and the third surface 221 along the periphery of the flexible display panel 230. The first protective member 214 and the second protective member 214 allow foreign matter (e.g., dust or It can prevent the inflow of moisture). The first protective member 214 may be disposed along the edge of the first display area 231, and the second protective member 224 may be disposed along the edge of the second display area 232. The first protective member 214 may be attached to the first side 213 of the first housing 210, or may be formed integrally with the first side 213. The second protective member 224 may be attached to the second side 213 of the second housing 220, or may be formed integrally with the second side 223.

According to one embodiment, the second side 223 may be pivotably or rotatably connected to the first side 213 through a hinge structure 260 mounted on the hinge cover 265. Hinge structure 260 may include a hinge module 262, a first hinge plate 266, and a second hinge plate 267. The first hinge plate 266 may be connected to the first housing 210, and the second hinge plate 267 may be connected to the second housing 220. According to one embodiment, the second housing 220 has a third side 221 and a fourth side 222 facing away from the third side 221, and a third side 221 and a fourth side ( The space formed by the side surface 223 surrounding at least a portion of the electronic device 222 may be provided as a space for mounting components of the electronic device 101 . According to one embodiment, the flexible display panel 230 may include a window exposed to the outside. The window protects the surface of the flexible display panel 230 and is formed of a transparent member to transmit visual information provided from the flexible display panel 230 to the outside. The window may include a glass material such as ultra-thin glass (UTG) or a polymer material such as polyimide (PI). According to one embodiment, the flexible display panel 230 is connected to the first side 211 of the first housing 210 and the third side of the second housing 220 (across the hinge cover 265). 221). The flexible display panel 230 includes a first display area 231 disposed on the first side 211 of the first housing, and a second display area 232 disposed on the third side 221 of the second housing. ), and a third display area 233 between the first display area 231 and the second display area 232. The first display area 231, the second display area 232, and the third display area 233 may form the front surface of the flexible display panel 230.

According to one embodiment, an opening is formed in a portion of the screen display area of the flexible display panel 230, or a recess or opening is formed in a support member (e.g., bracket) that supports the flexible display panel 230. It can be. The electronic device 101 may include at least one of a sensor module 238 and a camera 236 aligned with the recess or the opening. For example, the first display area 231 includes a camera 236 capable of acquiring an image from the outside through a portion of the first display area 231 and generating an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the external environmental condition. It may further include a sensor module 238. According to one embodiment, a sensor module 238, and a camera ( 236) may include at least one of the following. For example, at least one of the camera 236 and the sensor module 238 may be disposed below the flexible display panel 230 and surrounded by the flexible display panel 230. At least one of the camera 236 and the sensor module 238 may be surrounded by the flexible display panel 230 and not exposed to the outside. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the flexible display panel 230 may include an opening that exposes the camera 236 and the sensor module 238 to the outside. Although not shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, according to one embodiment, the flexible display panel 230 may further include a rear surface opposite to the front surface. According to one embodiment, the flexible display panel 230 may be supported by the first support member 270 of the first housing 210 and the second support member 280 of the second housing 220.

According to one embodiment, the hinge structure 260 forms a first housing 210, and a first support member 270 and a second housing 220 that are fastened to the first hinge plate 266, The second support member 280 coupled to the second hinge plate 267 may be rotatably connected.

According to one embodiment, the hinge cover 265 surrounding the hinge structure 260 is at least partially exposed through between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 while the electronic device 101 is in a folded state. It can be. In another embodiment, the hinge cover 265 may be covered by the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 while the electronic device 101 is in an unfolded state.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 may be folded based on the folding axis f passing through the hinge cover 265. For example, the hinge cover 265 is between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 of the electronic device 101 to allow the electronic device 101 to bend, bend, or fold. can be placed. For example, the first housing 210 is connected to the second housing 220 through a hinge structure 260 mounted on the hinge cover 265 and can rotate about the folding axis f. For example, the hinge structure 260 may include hinge modules 262 disposed at both ends of the first hinge plate 266 and the second hinge plate 267. The hinge module 262 includes hinge gears meshed with each other, and can rotate the first hinge plate 266 and the second hinge plate 267 about the folding axis. The first housing 210 coupled to the first hinge plate 266 is connected to the second housing 220 coupled to the second hinge plate 267, and is positioned relative to the folding axis by hinge modules 262. can be rotated.

According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 may be folded so that the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 face each other by rotating about the folding axis f. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 may be folded so that the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 overlap or overlap each other.

Referring to FIG. 2C, the electronic device 101 includes a first support member 270, a second support member 280, a hinge structure 260, a flexible display panel 230, a printed circuit board 250, and a battery. It may include (255), a hinge cover (265), an antenna (285), a display panel (235), and a rear plate (290). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 may omit at least one of the components or may additionally include another component. At least one of the components of the electronic device 101 may be the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 1, 2A, or 2B, and overlapping descriptions will be omitted below. do.

Hinge structure 260 may include a hinge module 262, a first hinge plate 266, and a second hinge plate 267. The hinge module 262 may include a hinge gear 263 that pivots the first hinge plate 266 and the second hinge plate 267. The hinge gear 263 may engage and rotate with each other, thereby rotating the first hinge plate 266 and the second hinge plate 267. The hinge module 262 may be a plurality of hinge modules. Each of the plurality of hinge modules may be disposed at both ends formed by the first hinge plate 266 and the second hinge plate 267.

The first hinge plate 266 is coupled to the first support member 270 of the first housing 210, and the second hinge plate 267 is coupled to the second support member 280 of the second housing 220. can be combined with The first housing 210 and the second housing 220 may rotate to correspond to the rotation of the first hinge plate 266 and the second hinge plate 267.

The first housing 210 may include a first support member 270 and a second support member 280. The first support member 270 may be partially surrounded by the first side 213, and the second support member 280 may be partially surrounded by the second side 223. The first support member 270 may be formed integrally with the first side 213, and the second support member 280 may be formed integrally with the second side 223. According to one embodiment, the first support member 270 may be formed separately from the first side 213, and the second support member 280 may be formed separately from the second side 223. The first side 213 and the second side 223 may be formed of a metallic material, a non-metallic material, or a combination thereof, and may be used as an antenna.

The first support member 270 may be coupled to the flexible display panel 230 on one side and with the rear plate 290 on the other side. The second support member 280 may be coupled to the flexible display panel 230 on one side and the display panel 235 on the other side.

A printed circuit board 250 and a battery 255 will be disposed between the surface formed by the first support member 270 and the second support member 280 and the surface formed by the display panel 235 and the rear plate 290. You can. The printed circuit board 250 may be separated so that it can be placed on each of the first support member 270 of the first housing 210 and the second support member 280 of the second housing 220. The shapes of the first printed circuit board 251 disposed on the first support member 270 and the second printed circuit board 252 disposed on the second support member 280 may be different depending on the space inside the electronic device. You can. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device 10 may be mounted on the first printed circuit board 251 and the second printed circuit board 252 . According to one embodiment, the first printed circuit board 251 may be equipped with components to implement the overall function of the electronic device 101, and the second printed circuit board 252 may be a first printed circuit board. Electronic components to implement some functions of 251 may be disposed, or components for driving the display panel 235, which is disposed on the fourth surface 222, may be disposed. The first printed circuit board 251 and the second printed circuit board 252 may be electrically connected by a flexible printed circuit board 240.

Battery 255 is a device for supplying power to at least one component of electronic device 101, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell. may include. At least a portion of the battery 255 may be disposed on substantially the same plane as the printed circuit board 250. The surfaces of the printed circuit board 250 and the battery 255 formed as substantially the same plane are one surface of the first support member 270 and the second support member 280 (e.g., the second surface 212 and the fourth surface). It may be disposed on the side facing the surface 222 or the side facing the display panel 235 and the back plate 290. For example, the flexible display panel 230 is disposed on the first side 211 and the third side 221, and the second side 212 and the fourth side face the side on which the flexible display panel 230 is disposed. A printed circuit board 250 and a battery 255 may be disposed on the surface 222.

Antenna 285 may be disposed between rear plate 290 and battery 255, in one embodiment. The antenna 285 may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. For example, the antenna 285 can perform short-distance communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power required for charging.

3 is an exploded perspective view of an example electronic device with the display exploded.

Referring to FIG. 3 , the electronic device 101 may include a first housing 210, a second housing 220, a flexible display panel 230, and a hinge assembly 300. The hinge assembly 300 may include a first support plate 310, a second support plate 320, and a hinge structure 260.

According to one embodiment, the flexible display panel 230 includes a first display area 231, a second display area 232, and an extension from the first display area 231 to the second display area 232. may include a third display area 233. The third display area 233 may be a deformable area. Through deformation of the third display area 233, the first display area 231 may be curved with respect to the second display area 232. For example, through deformation of the third display area 233, the angle between the first display area 231 and the second display area 232 may be changed.

According to one embodiment, the flexible display panel 230 has a first state in which the direction in which the first display area 231 faces corresponds to the direction in which the second display area 232 faces, and the first display area 230 has a first state corresponding to a direction in which the second display area 232 faces. A second state may be provided in which the direction in which 231 faces is opposite to the direction in which the second display area 232 faces. For example, when referring to FIG. 2A together, the first state in which the direction in which the first display area 231 faces corresponds to the direction in which the second display area 232 faces is the unfolded state of the electronic device 101. It can be. For example, the first state may be a state in which the first display area 231 and the second display area 232 face the same direction in the first direction (eg, +z direction). For example, when referring to FIG. 2B, the second state in which the direction in which the first display area 231 faces corresponds to the direction in which the second display area 232 faces is the state of the electronic device 101. It may be in a folded state. For example, in the second state, the direction in which the first display area 231 faces is the first direction (e.g., +z direction), and the direction in which the second display area 232 faces is opposite to the first direction. It may be in a second direction (e.g. -z direction). For example, the second state may be a state in which the first display area 231 and the second display area 232 face each other when the folding axis f is on the first axis f1.

Although the second state has been described as corresponding to the folded state of the electronic device 101, it is not limited thereto. The second state may include a plurality of states. For example, the second state may be a state in which the second display area 232 faces the third display area 233 when the folding axis f is on the second axis f2. In the second state, the first display area 231 and the third display area 233 may face a first direction (eg, +z direction). The second display area 232 may face a second direction (eg, -z direction) opposite to the first direction. For example, the second state is when the folding axis f is between the first axis f1 and the second axis f2, the second display area 232 is a portion of the first display area 231. and may be facing a portion of the third display area 233.

According to one embodiment, the flexible display panel 230 may be configured to provide a plurality of states including a first state and a second state. For example, the flexible display panel 230 may display the first display area 231 while the electronic device 101 changes from the first state to the second state or from the second state to the first state. ) and the second display area 232 may be configured to change. For example, the flexible display panel 230 is configured so that the angle between the first display area 231 and the third display area 233 changes when the folding axis f is on the first axis f1. It can be configured. For example, the flexible display panel 230 is configured so that the angle between the second display area 232 and the third display area 233 changes when the folding axis f is on the second axis f2. It can be configured.

According to one embodiment, the size s1 of the first display area 231 may be equal to the sum of the size s2 of the second display area 232 and the size s3 of the third display area 233. You can. For example, when the folding axis f is on the first axis f1, in the second state, the first display area 231 is divided into the second display area 232 and the third display area 233. ) can overlap. For example, the size s2 of the second display area 232 may be the same as the size s3 of the third display area 233. The size s2 of the second display area 232 and the size s3 of the third display area 233 may each be a size corresponding to half the size s1 of the first display area 231. . When the folding axis f is on the second axis f2, in the second state, the second display area 232 may overlap the third display area 233.

According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 may support the first display area 231. The second housing 220 supports the second display area 232 and may be spaced apart from the first housing 210 . For example, the first side 213 of the first housing 210 may surround at least a portion of the first display area 231. The second side 223 of the second housing 220 may surround at least a portion of the second display area 232. Since the third display area 233 is disposed between the first display area 231 and the second display area 232, the first display area 231 and the second display area 232 are connected to each other. may be separated. The size s3 of the third display area 233 may not change within a plurality of states of the electronic device 101. The first housing 210 supporting the first display area 231 and the second housing 220 supporting the second display area 232 are spaced apart from each other through the third display area 233. It can be.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly 300 may be movable with respect to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 . For example, the hinge assembly 300, in the first state, has a third direction (e.g., +x direction) toward the first housing 210 and opposite to the third direction, and the second housing 220 ) may be capable of sliding in a fourth direction (e.g., -x direction). The movement and operation of the hinge assembly 300 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly 300 may support the third display area 233. The size s4 of the hinge assembly 300 may be larger than the size of the third display area 233. For example, in the first state, when the flexible display panel 230 is viewed from above, the third display area 233 may overlap a portion of the hinge assembly 300. For example, at least a portion of the hinge assembly 300 may support the first housing 210. At least a portion of the remainder of the hinge assembly 300 may support the second housing 220 . For example, in the first state, when the flexible display panel 230 is viewed from above, at least a portion of the hinge assembly 300 may overlap the first display area 231. At least a portion of the remainder of the hinge assembly 300 may overlap the second display area 232 . Since the size s4 of the hinge assembly 300 is larger than the size s3 of the third display area 233, the hinge assembly 300 supports the third display area 233 and In the first state, it may be possible to move in a third direction (eg, +x direction) toward the first housing 210 or a fourth direction (eg, -x direction) toward the second housing 220.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly 300 may include a first support plate 310 and a second support plate 320 to support the third display area 233. For example, the first support plate 310 may support a portion of the first display area 231 and a portion of the third display area 233. The second support plate 320 may support the remainder of the second display area 232 and the third display area 233. According to one embodiment, each size of the first support plate 310 and the second support plate 320 may correspond to half of the size s4 of the hinge assembly 300.

According to one embodiment, a portion of the first support plate 310 may be surrounded by the first housing 210. A portion of the second support plate 320 may be surrounded by the second housing 220 . For example, a portion of the first support plate 310 may be disposed within the first housing 210 . The portion of the first support plate 310 may be disposed between the first housing 210 and the first display area 231 . A portion of the second support plate 320 may be disposed within the second housing 220 . The portion of the second support plate 320 may be disposed between the second housing 220 and the second display area 232.

According to one embodiment, the first support plate 310 is exposed to the outside of the first housing 210 as the hinge assembly 300 moves with respect to the first housing 210 in the first state. Alternatively, it may include a first slide area 315 covered by the first housing 210. The second support plate 320 is exposed to the outside of the second housing 220 or is exposed to the outside of the second housing 220 as the hinge assembly 300 moves with respect to the second housing 220 in the first state. 2 It may include a second slide area 325 that is covered by the housing 210. For example, the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 may be spaced apart by a distance g. In the first state, the length of the first slide area 315 and the second slide area 325 in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis f may correspond to the gap g. The first slide region 315 moves along the folding axis f as the hinge assembly 300 moves in the third direction (e.g., +x direction) toward the first housing 210 in the first state. When placed on the first axis f1, it may be obscured by the first housing 210. As the hinge assembly 300 moves in the fourth direction (e.g., -x direction) toward the second housing 220 in the first state, the first slide region 315 moves along the folding axis ( When f) is disposed on the second axis f2, it can be exposed to the outside through the gap between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 by the distance g. there is. The second slide area 325 is such that, as the hinge assembly 300 moves in the third direction toward the first housing 210, the folding axis f is on the first axis f1. When placed, it may be exposed to the outside through the gap formed between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 by the distance g. The second slide area 325 is such that, as the hinge assembly 300 moves in the fourth direction toward the second housing 220, the folding axis f is on the second axis f2. When placed in, it may be obscured by the second housing 220. The gap may overlap the third display area 233 when the flexible display panel 230 is viewed from above in the first state. The hinge assembly 300 includes

slide regions

315 and 325 so that, in the first state, the hinge assembly 300 moves in the third direction or the fourth direction. Even when moving to , the third display area 233 can be supported.

According to one embodiment, the first slide area 315 may contact the second slide area 325 in the first state. For example, the first slide area 315 and the second slide area 325 may contact each other on the folding axis f in the first state. As the

slide regions

315 and 325 come into contact with each other, the hinge assembly 300 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis f. As the hinge assembly 300 extends in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis f in the first state, the hinge assembly 300 is perpendicular to the folding axis f, and the first housing 210 ) may be movable in a third direction (eg, +x direction) or in a fourth direction (eg, -x direction) towards the second housing 220.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly 300 may include a hinge structure 260 that rotatably connects the second support plate 320 to the first support plate 310 . For example, a portion of the hinge structure 260 may be in contact with the first support plate 310, and the remaining portion of the hinge structure 260 may be in contact with the second support plate 320. For example, hinge structure 260 includes a first hinge plate (e.g., first hinge plate 266 in Figure 2C) and a second hinge plate (e.g., second hinge plate 267 in Figure 2C). can do. The first hinge plate 266 may be coupled to the first support plate 310. The second hinge plate 267 may be combined with the second support plate 320. The first hinge plate 266 may be rotatable about the folding axis f. Since the first hinge plate 266 is rotatable about the folding axis f with respect to the second hinge plate 267, the hinge structure 260 includes the first support plate 310 and The second support plate 320 can be rotatably connected.

According to one embodiment, the hinge structure 260 may include a hinge module (eg, the hinge module 262 in FIG. 2C). The hinge module 262 may include a plurality of gears that mesh with each other within the hinge module 262. The hinge module may rotatably connect the first hinge plate 266 and the second hinge plate 267 included in the hinge structure 260 through the plurality of gears.

According to one embodiment, the hinge structure 260 is configured so that, among a plurality of states provided by the flexible display panel 230, the direction in which the first display area 231 faces is the direction in which the second display area 232 faces. Based on the first state corresponding to , may be configured to provide a folding axis (f). For example, while the electronic device 101 changes from a first state to a second state or from the second state to the first state, the second support plate 320 is connected to the first support plate 310. It can be rotated based on the folding axis (f). When the direction in which the first support plate 310 extends is fixed in a direction parallel to the x-axis, the direction in which the second support plate 320, which rotates with respect to the first support plate 310, extends is: While changing from the first state to the second state or from the second state to the first state, it may not be parallel to the x-axis. Since the direction in which the second support plate 320 extends is different from the direction in which the first support plate 310 extends, the hinge assembly 300 can be fixed in a state other than the first state. You can. For example, in the first state, the direction in which the first support plate 310 and the second support plate 320 extend in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis f is the third direction (eg, +x direction). Alternatively, the hinge assembly 300 may be movable in the third or fourth direction by matching the fourth direction (eg, -x direction) opposite to the third direction. The hinge structure 260 may be disposed between the first support plate 310 and the second support plate 320. As the hinge structure 260 is movable along the hinge assembly 300 in the first state, the folding axis f provided from the hinge structure 260 may be movable. For example, the folding axis f may be such that the hinge assembly 300 moves in a third direction (e.g., +x direction) or a fourth direction opposite to the third direction (e.g., -x direction) in the first state. ), it may be possible to move between the first axis f1 and the second axis f2. The folding axis f is such that, in the first state, the hinge assembly 300 moves in the third direction toward the first housing 210 or moves in the fourth direction toward the second housing 220. While moving in the direction, it may be disposed between the first axis f1 and the second axis f2. As the hinge structure 260 provides a folding axis f, the second support plate 310 can rotate relative to the first support plate 310 about the folding axis f. . The third display area 233 is supported by the

support plates

310 and 320 by rotating the second support plate 320 with respect to the first support plate 310 about the folding axis f. ) can be folded based on the folding axis (f). Since the folding axis f can move from the first axis f1 to the second axis f2 or from the second axis f2 to the first axis f1 in the first state, The folding position of the third display area 233 within the third display area 233 may change. According to one embodiment, the area in which the folding axis f can move in the first state is the gap between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220, where the

slide areas

315 and 325 can be exposed. It can respond to gaps formed as much as (g).

According to one embodiment, the distance from one side parallel to the folding axis (f) of the first side 213 of the first housing 210 to the folding axis (f) is the distance from the folding axis (f) in the first state. (f) may change as it moves in the third direction (e.g., +x direction) toward the first housing 210 or the fourth direction (e.g., -x direction) toward the second housing 220. For example, the folding axis f may be movable between the first axis f1 and the second axis f2 within the first state. Since the folding axis f is movable, in the first state, from one side parallel to the folding axis f of the first side 213 of the first housing 210 to the folding axis f. The distance may vary between a distance d1 from the one side to the first axis f1 and a distance d2 from the one side to the second axis f2.

According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device 101 provides a folding axis f for folding the third display area 233 and moves with respect to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220. By including a possible hinge assembly 300, it is possible to provide a folding axis f that moves along the hinge assembly 300. Since the folding axis f is movable, the folding position within the third display area 233 can be changed based on the folding axis f. As the folded position of the third display area 233 changes, the electronic device 101 provides various users by the changing folding axis f to the user of the electronic device 101. Can provide user experience.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are enlarged views of a portion of the exemplary electronic device of FIG. 3 . 4C shows a portion of an example electronic device in an unfolded state.

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B , the electronic device 101 may include a first housing 210, a second housing 220, and a hinge assembly 300. The second housing 220 may include a first locking structure 410. The hinge assembly may include a first support plate 310, a second support plate 320, a hinge structure 260, and a second locking structure 420.

According to one embodiment, the locked state may be a state in which the hinge assembly 300 is fixed to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 . The unlocked state may be a state in which the hinge assembly 300 can move with respect to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 . For example, the locked state may be a state in which the hinge assembly 300 is fixed to the first housing 210 and/or the second housing 220 in the first state. For example, the unlocked state may be that, within the first state, the hinge assembly 300 is positioned in a third direction (e.g., +x direction) toward the first housing 210 or in a fourth direction toward the second housing 220. It may be in a state where it can be moved in any direction (e.g. -x direction).

According to one embodiment, the first locking structure 410 may be disposed within the second housing 220. The first locking structure 410 may be disposed along an edge of the second housing 220, perpendicular to the folding axis f of the hinge structure 260. For example, the first locking structure 410 may face one of the second sides 223 of the second housing 220 perpendicular to the folding axis f. The first locking structure 410 may contact at least a portion of the hinge assembly 300 disposed within the second housing 220. The first locking structure 410 is not surrounded by the second housing 220 when the hinge assembly 300 moves in the fourth direction (e.g., -x direction) toward the second housing 220. may contact the second slide area (eg, the second slide area 325 in FIG. 3). The first locking structure 410 is formed by moving the second support plate 320 including the second slide area 325 toward the second housing 220. You can face one side.

According to one embodiment, the second locking structure 420 may be disposed along an edge of the hinge assembly 300 perpendicular to the folding axis f of the hinge structure 260. The second locking structure 420 may be movable relative to the first locking structure 410 as the hinge assembly 300 moves. For example, one edge of the hinge assembly 300 may include the first edge 311 of the first support plate 310 and the second edge 321 of the second support plate 320. The first edge 311 and the second edge 321 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis f in a plurality of states. The second locking structure 420 may be disposed along the first edge 311 and the second edge 321. For example, since the hinge assembly 300 is movable in the first state, the second locking structure 420 disposed along one edge of the hinge assembly 300 is positioned at the edge of the hinge assembly 300. Depending on the movement within the first state, movement may occur. In the first state, the second locking structure 420 operates in a third direction (eg, +x direction) or the first locking structure 410 disposed in the second housing 220. It may be possible to move in a fourth direction (e.g., -x direction) opposite to the third direction.

According to one embodiment, the second locking structure 420 may include a button 421. The button 421 may be exposed to the outside. For example, the button 421 may be exposed through a gap between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 spaced apart by the distance g. By exposing the button 421 to the outside, the button 421 can come into contact with an external object (eg, a user's finger).

According to one embodiment, the button 421 may be placed on the folding axis f. For example, the button 421 may be disposed between the first support plate 310 and the second support plate 320. The button 421 may be disposed between the first edge 311 of the first support plate 310 and the second edge 321 of the second support plate 320. As the button 421 is disposed on the folding axis f, the second support plate 320 supports the first support plate with respect to the button 421 when the button 421 is viewed from above. The plate 310 may be foldable.

According to one embodiment, the second locking structure 420 may include at least one rod 450. The at least one rod 450 may be rotatable by pressing the button 421. The at least one rod 450 may face the second housing 220 . For example, at least one rod 450 may extend toward the second housing 210 along the second edge 321 of the second support plate 320. The at least one rod 450 may be rotatable based on a fixing member 450a connecting the second support plate 320 and the at least one rod 450. The fixing member 450a may provide a rotation axis to the at least one rod 450 so that the at least one rod 450 can rotate with respect to the hinge assembly 300 . As the button 421 is pressed in the direction toward the inside of the electronic device 101 (e.g., -y direction), one end 450b of the at least one rod 450 moves toward the inside of the electronic device 101. It can be pressurized in the inward direction (-y). When the one end 450b is pressed, the at least one rod 450 can rotate based on the fixing member 450a. The other end 450c of the at least one rod 450 may move in a direction toward the outside of the electronic device 101 (e.g., +y direction) as the at least one rod 450 rotates. .

According to one embodiment, the second locking structure 420 may include a pressing portion 422. The pressing portion 422 may be pressed as the button 421 is pressed. The pressing portion 422 may contact one end 450b of at least one rod 450. The pressing portion 422 may be disposed on the folding axis f. Since the pressing part 422 is pressed as the button 421 is pressed, one end 450b of the at least one rod 450 in contact with the pressing part 422 may be pressed. As the one end 450b is pressed, the at least one rod 450 may be rotated relative to the fixing member 450a.

According to one embodiment, the second locking structure 420 may include at least one elastic portion 423. The at least one elastic portion 423 includes a first elastic portion 423a disposed on the pressing portion 422 in contact with one end 450b of the at least one rod 450, and the at least one rod 450 ) may include a second elastic portion 423b disposed at the other end 450c. The first elastic portion 423a may be compressed by pressing the button 421 in the pressing direction (eg, -y direction) of the button 421. The first elastic portion 423a may be configured to be restored to the state before the pressure when the pressure of the button 421 is released. The second elastic portion 423b may be disposed between the at least one rod 450 and the second edge 321 of the second support plate 320. As the button 421 is pressed, it may be compressed in a direction opposite to the pressing direction (eg, +y direction) by at least one rod 450 that rotates.

For example, the first elastic portion 423a may be pressed in a direction toward the inside of the electronic device 101 by pressing the button 421 in a direction toward the inside (eg, -y direction). Since one end 450b of at least one rod 450 is pressed in the direction toward the inside by the pressing portion 422 pressed by the button 421, the at least one rod 450 is, It can rotate based on the fixing member 450a. By the rotation of the at least one rod 450, the other end 450c of the at least one rod 450 moves in a direction toward the outside of the electronic device 101 (e.g., +y direction). You can. As the other end 450c moves in the outward direction, the second elastic portion 423b disposed between the at least one rod 450 and the second edge 321 moves to the other end 450c. It can be pressurized in the direction toward the outside.

For example, the first elastic part 423a and the second elastic part 423b may be configured to be restored to the state before the pressing when the button 421 is pressed. The first elastic portion 423a is restored to its state before the pressing, thereby pressing the button 421 and the pressing portion 422 in a direction (e.g., +y direction) opposite to the pressing direction (e.g., -y direction). can be moved. As the pressing part 422 moves in the opposite direction to the pressing direction, the pressure on one end 450b of at least one rod 450 in contact with the pressing part 422 is released, so that the one end 450b ) can move in a direction opposite to the pressing direction. As the second elastic portion 423b in contact with the other end 450c of the at least one rod 450 is restored to the state before the pressure, the other end 450c is moved to the inside of the electronic device 101. It can be moved in the direction facing (-y direction). The at least one rod 450 may be rotated to be restored to its state before the pressing through restoration of the first pressing part 423a and the second pressing part 423b.

According to one embodiment, at least one rod 450 may contact the first locking structure 410 through the second elastic portion 423b in the locked state. The at least one rod 450 may be configured to be spaced apart from the first locking structure 410 by pressing the button 421 in the unlocked state.

For example, the at least one rod 450, in the locked state, has a second elastic portion disposed between the at least one rod 450 and the second edge 321 of the second support plate 320 ( By the elastic force of 423b), it can come into contact with the first locking structure 410. By the second elastic portion 423b, one end 450a of the at least one rod 450 moves the pressing portion 422 in a direction (e.g., +y) toward the outside of the electronic device 101. By pressing, the button 421 may be configured to protrude outward from the hinge assembly 300. The other end 450b of the at least one rod 450 may be configured to be pressed by the second elastic portion 423b and come into contact with the first locking structure 410.

For example, in the unlocked state, the at least one rod 450 rotates as the button 421 is pressed in a direction toward the inside of the electronic device 101 (e.g., -y direction), thereby locking the first lock. It may be spaced apart from the structure 410. As the button 421 is pressed, one end 450a of the at least one rod 450 moves in a direction toward the inside of the electronic device 101, thereby holding the at least one rod 450. It can be rotated. As the at least one rod 450 rotates, the other end 450b of the at least one rod 450 may be spaced apart from the first locking structure 410. The other end 450b may compress the second elastic part 423b in contact with the other end 450b by rotation of the at least one rod 450.

According to one embodiment, the second locking structure 420 secures the hinge assembly 300 to the second housing 220 while the second locking structure 420 abuts the first locking structure 410. Can be configured to provide a locking state. The second locking structure 420 holds the hinge assembly 300 between the first housing 210 and the second housing ( 220) may be configured to provide a moveable unlock state.

For example, the locked state may be a state in which the button 421 is not pressed. In the locked state, the pressure applied to one end 450a of the at least one rod 450 is released, so the other end 450b of the at least one rod 450 is the second elastic portion 423b. It can come into contact with the first locking structure 410 due to the elastic force of . The other end 450b and the first locking structure 410 in contact with the other end 450b may include a structure for fixing the hinge assembly 300. For example, the other end 450b may include a plurality of protrusions. The first locking structure 410 may include a plurality of grooves that engage with each of the plurality of protrusions of the other end 450b as the other end 450b is pressed by the second pressing portion 423b. You can. Since the at least one rod 450 is fixed with respect to the first locking structure 410 by contacting the first locking structure 410, the second locking structure 420 including the at least one rod 450 ) may be fixed to the second housing 220.

For example, the unlocked state may be a state in which the button 421 is pressed. In the unlocked state, one end 450a of the at least one rod 450 is pressed, so that the other end 450b of the at least one rod 450 rotates the at least one rod 450. It can be spaced apart from the first locking structure 410. The at least one rod 450 is spaced apart from the first locking structure 410 so that the second locking structure 420 including the at least one rod 450 is connected to the second housing 220 and the first locking structure 410. It may be configured to be movable with respect to the housing 210.

Although the electronic device 101 is described as including a first locking structure 410 and a second locking structure 420, it is not limited thereto. The electronic device 101 may include a plurality of buttons and a plurality of locking structures configured to provide an unlocked state or a locked state of the electronic device 101 through pressing or releasing the pressing of the plurality of buttons. You can. The plurality of locking structures will be described later with reference to FIG. 4C.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly 300 may include at least one protrusion 460 disposed along one edge of the hinge assembly 300 parallel to the folding axis f. The second housing 220 may accommodate the at least one protrusion 460 and include a first guide groove 470 to guide the movement of the hinge assembly 300. For example, at least one protrusion 460 may be disposed along one edge parallel to the folding axis f of the second support plate 320. The at least one protrusion 460 may protrude from one edge in a first direction (eg, +z direction) toward the flexible display panel (eg, the flexible display panel 230 of FIG. 2A). The first guide groove 470 accommodating the at least one protrusion 460 guides the at least one protrusion 460 moving along the hinge assembly 300 in the first state, thereby controlling the hinge assembly ( 300) may guide the hinge assembly 300 so that it does not deviate from the moving direction.

Although the electronic device 101 has been described as including at least one protrusion 460 and a first guide groove 470, it is not limited thereto. Referring to FIG. 4C together, the hinge assembly 300 may include a plurality of protrusions disposed along an edge parallel to the folding axis f of the hinge assembly 300. The first housing 210 and/or the second housing 220 may include a plurality of first guide grooves that accommodate each of the plurality of protrusions. For example, each of the first support plate 310 and the second support plate 320 may include a plurality of protrusions disposed along one edge parallel to the folding axis f. The first housing 210 may include a plurality of first guide grooves that accommodate each of the plurality of protrusions included in the first support plate 310. The second housing 220 may include a plurality of first guide grooves that accommodate each of the plurality of protrusions included in the second support plate 320.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly 300 may include a guide gear 480 disposed at one edge of the hinge assembly 300 parallel to the folding axis f. The second housing 220 may include a second guide groove 490 to guide the movement of the hinge assembly 300. The second guide groove 490 may include a plurality of protrusions 495 that engage with the guide gear 480. For example, the guide gear 480 may be disposed on one edge parallel to the folding axis f of the second support plate 320. The plurality of protrusions 495 of the second guide groove 490 may be configured to engage with gear teeth of the guide gear 480. The guide gear 480, which moves as the hinge assembly 300 moves in the first state, may rotate by the plurality of protrusions 495. The electronic device 101 can guide the moving position of the hinge assembly 300 by including the guide gear 480 and the second guide groove 490.

Although the electronic device 101 has been described as including a guide gear 480 and a second guide groove 490, it is not limited thereto. Referring to FIG. 4C together, the hinge assembly 300 may include a plurality of guide gears disposed on an edge parallel to the folding axis f of the hinge assembly 300. The first housing 210 and/or the second housing 220 may include a plurality of second guide grooves engaged with each of the guide gears. For example, each of the first support plate 310 and the second support plate 320 may include a plurality of guide gears disposed on one edge parallel to the folding axis f. The first housing 210 may include a plurality of second guide grooves engaged with each of a plurality of guide gears included in the first support plate 310. The second housing 220 may include a plurality of second guide grooves engaged with each of a plurality of guide gears included in the second support plate 320.

Referring to FIG. 4C , the electronic device 101 may include a first housing 210, a second housing 220, a hinge assembly 300, and locking

structures

410, 420, 430, and 440. there is. The hinge assembly includes a first support plate 310, a second support plate 320, a hinge structure 260, at least one protrusion 460, a first guide groove 470, a guide gear 480, and It may include a second guide groove 490.

Hereinafter, overlapping content regarding the configurations described in FIGS. 4A and 4B will be omitted.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly 300 may include a second locking structure 420 and a fourth locking structure 440. The second housing 220 may include

first locking structures

411 and 412 that contact the second locking structure 420 and the fourth locking structure 440, respectively, in a locked state. The first housing 210 may include

third locking structures

431 and 432 that contact the second locking structure 420 and the fourth locking structure 440, respectively, in the locked state. At least one rod 450 may include

rods

451, 452, 453, and 454. The second locking structure 420 may include a first rod 451 and a second rod 452 configured to rotate by pressing the first button 421a. The fourth locking structure 440 may include a third rod 453 and a fourth rod 454 configured to rotate by pressing the second button 441a. According to one embodiment, the second locking structure 420 and the fourth locking structure 440 may be symmetrical to each other about an axis perpendicular to the folding axis f. For example, the second locking structure 420 is disposed along one edge perpendicular to the folding axis f of the hinge assembly 300, and the fourth locking structure 440 is disposed along the folding axis f. It may be vertical and placed on another edge of the hinge assembly 300 facing the one edge. For example, the first rod 451 and the second rod 452 of the second locking structure 420 may rotate as the first button 421a is pressed in the -y direction. The third rod 453 and the fourth rod 454 of the fourth locking structure 440 may rotate as the second button 441a is pressed.

According to one embodiment, the second locking structure 420 and the fourth locking structure 440 included in the hinge assembly 300 are oriented so that the

buttons

421a and 441a face toward the inside of the electronic device 101. As it is pressed, the hinge assembly 300 is spaced apart from the

first locking structures

411 and 412 and the

third locking structures

431 and 432, respectively, so that the hinge assembly 300 is connected to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220. ) may be configured to provide a moveable unlocked state for. The second locking structure 420 and the fourth locking structure 440 are connected to the

first locking structures

411 and 412 and the third locking structure as the pressing of the

buttons

421a and 441a is released. By contacting each of the locking

structures

431 and 432, a locked state in which the hinge assembly 300 is fixed to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 can be provided.

According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes locking

structures

410, 420, 430, and 440, so that the hinge assembly 300 is in the first state in the electronic device 101. to provide an unlocked state in which the housing 210 and the second housing 220 are movable, and a locked state in which the hinge assembly 300 is fixed to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220. You can. The locking

structures

410, 420, 430, and 440 may provide a movable folding axis f by providing the unlocked state to the electronic device 101. The locking

structures

410, 420, 430, and 440 may secure the folding axis f by providing the locking state. The hinge assembly 300 includes at least one protrusion 460 accommodated in the first guide groove 470 included in the first housing 210 and/or the second housing 220, Disengagement of the hinge assembly 300 due to movement of the hinge assembly 300 can be reduced. The hinge assembly 300 is included in the first housing 210 and/or the second housing 220 and includes a guide gear 480 that is interlocked with the second guide groove 490, so that the hinge assembly It can guide the movement of (300).

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the operation of an example electronic device where the folding axis f is disposed on the first axis f1 of FIG. 3 . FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the operation of an example electronic device where the folding axis f is disposed on the second axis f2 of FIG. 3 .

5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, the electronic device 101 includes a first housing 210, a second housing 220, a flexible display panel 230, and a hinge assembly 300. may include.

Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B , the folding axis f of the hinge assembly 300 may be disposed on the first axis f1. While the electronic device 101 changes from the first state to the second state, the first display area 231 may be rotatable with respect to the second display area 232 and the third display area 233. For example, the first axis f1 may correspond to one edge of the third display area 233 that is in contact with the first display area 231. While changing from the first state to the second state of the electronic device 101, the flexible display panel 230 is positioned based on one edge of the third display area 233 that is in contact with the first display area 231. Because it is folded, the first display area 231 may overlap the second display area 232 and the third display area in the second state.

Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B , the folding axis f of the hinge assembly 300 may be disposed on the second axis f2. While the electronic device 101 changes from the first state to the second state, the first display area 231 and the third display area 233 may be rotatable with respect to the second display area 232 . For example, the second axis f2 may correspond to another edge of the third display area 233 that contacts the second display area 232. While changing from the first state to the second state of the electronic device 101, the flexible display panel 230 is based on the other edge of the third display area 233 that is in contact with the second display area 232. Because it is folded, the second display area 232 may overlap the third display area in the second state.

Referring again to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, the folding axis f of the hinge assembly is, in the first state, from the first axis f1 to the second axis f2 or the second axis f2. It can move from the second axis (f2) to the first axis (f1). The folding axis f may be disposed between the first axis f1 and the second axis f2. For example, although not shown, when the folding axis f is disposed between the first axis f1 and the second axis f2, the flexible display panel 230 has a space corresponding to the folding axis f. It may be folded based on one axis within the third display area 233. In the second state, a part of the second display area 232 faces a part of the first display area 231, and the remainder excluding the part of the second display area 232 displays the third display area. A portion of area 233 may be encountered. The electronic device 101 includes a plurality of states that can be changed through a folding axis f that can move between the first axis f1 and the second axis f2, so that the user of the electronic device 101 It can provide a variety of user experiences.

According to one embodiment, the second display area 232 is positioned in the third direction (eg, +x direction) with the folding axis f facing the first housing 210 or the second housing 220 in the first state. ), the area facing the first display area within the second state may change as it moves in the fourth direction (e.g., -x direction). For example, when referring to FIG. 3 together, as the folding axis f moves in the third direction (e.g., +x direction) toward the first housing 210 within the first state, the folding axis ( Since f) approaches the first axis f1, the area where the second display area 232 faces the first display area 231 in the second state may increase. For example, as the folding axis f moves in the fourth direction (-x direction) toward the second housing 220 in the first state, the folding axis f moves along the second axis f2. As they become closer, the area where the second display area 232 faces the first display area 231 in the second state may decrease.

According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device 101 moves from the first axis f1 to the second axis f2, or from the second axis f2, along the hinge assembly 300 movable in the first state. By including a folding axis (f) movable from f2) to the first axis (f1), a plurality of states provided through the folding axis (f) can be included. The electronic device 101 may provide various user experiences to the user of the electronic device 101 through the plurality of states.

7 shows a portion of an example electronic device in an unfolded state.

Referring to FIG. 7 , the electronic device 101 may include a first housing 210, a second housing 220, a hinge assembly 300, and a control unit 710. The hinge assembly 300 may include a first support plate 310, a second support plate 320, a hinge structure 260, at least one protrusion 460, and a guide gear 480. The first housing 210 and/or the second housing 220 may include a first guide groove 470 and a second guide groove 490.

According to one embodiment, the control unit 710 (eg, processor 120 of FIG. 1) may be electrically connected to the guide gear 480. The control unit 710 may be configured to control the rotation of the guide gear 480. For example, the control unit 710 may rotate the guide gear 480 in the first rotation direction 751 based on receiving the first signal. Based on receiving the second signal, the control unit 710 may rotate the guide gear 480 in a second rotation direction 752 that is opposite to the first rotation direction 751. The control unit 710 may be configured to stop the rotation of the guide gear 480 based on the fact that the first signal and the second signal are not received.

According to one embodiment, the control unit 710 may rotate the guide gear 480 based on receiving a signal requesting movement of the hinge assembly 300. The control unit 710 rotates the guide gear 480 to move the hinge assembly 300 in a third direction (e.g., +x direction) toward the first housing 210 or toward the second housing 220. ) may be configured to move in a fourth direction (e.g., -x direction). For example, the first signal may be a signal requesting to move the hinge assembly 300 in a third direction (eg, +x direction) toward the first housing 210. The second signal may be a signal requesting to move the hinge assembly 300 toward the second housing 220 in a fourth direction (eg, -x direction) that is opposite to the third direction. The control unit 710 may rotate the guide gear 480 in the first rotation direction 751 based on receiving the first signal. Based on receiving the second signal, the control unit 710 may rotate the guide gear 480 in a second rotation direction 752 that is opposite to the first rotation direction 751. The guide gear 480 rotates the second guide in the first rotation direction 751 by engaging the gear teeth of the guide gear 480 with the plurality of protrusions 495 of the second guide groove 490. It may be configured to move the hinge assembly 300 in the third direction with respect to the first housing 210 and/or the second housing 220 including the groove 490. The guide gear 480 engages the gear teeth of the guide gear 480 with the plurality of protrusions 495 of the second guide groove 490 to rotate in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction 751. By rotating to 752, the hinge assembly 300 is rotated in the third direction with respect to the first housing 210 and/or the second housing 220 including the second guide groove 490. It may be configured to move toward the fourth direction.

According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 may include a switch 720. The switch 720 may be disposed on the first side 213 of the first housing 210 perpendicular to the folding axis f of the hinge assembly 300. The switch 720 may be electrically connected to the control unit 710. The switch 720 may be configured to transmit a signal requesting the control unit 710 to move the hinge assembly 300 based on the switch 720 being pressed. Although the switch 720 has been described as being included in the first housing 210, it is not limited thereto. According to one embodiment, the switch 720 may be disposed on the second side 223 of the second housing 220.

According to one embodiment, the switch 720 may include a first part 721 facing the first housing 210 and a second part 722 facing the second housing 220. Based on the first portion 721 being pressed, the switch 720 instructs the control unit 710 to move the hinge assembly 300 in a third direction (e.g., +x) toward the first housing 210. A first signal requesting to move in the same direction may be transmitted. Based on the second portion 722 being pressed, the switch 720 directs the control unit 710 to move the hinge assembly 300 in a fourth direction (e.g., -x) toward the second housing 220. A second signal requesting to move in the same direction may be transmitted. Based on receiving the first signal from the switch 720, the control unit 710 rotates the guide gear 480 in the first rotation direction 751 to move the hinge assembly 300 to the first housing. It can be moved in the third direction toward (210). The control unit 710 rotates the guide gear 480 in the second rotation direction 752, which is opposite to the first rotation direction 751, based on receiving the second signal from the switch 720. , the hinge assembly 300 may be moved in the fourth direction toward the second housing 220.

According to the above-described embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes a control unit 710 configured to rotate the guide gear 480, thereby moving the hinge assembly 300 in the first state. The electronic device 101 includes a switch 720 that is electrically connected to the control unit 710, so that the user of the electronic device 101 can use the hinge assembly 300 and the hinge assembly 300. It can be configured to easily move the provided folding axis (f).

According to the above-described embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101 in FIG. 1) includes a first display area (e.g., first display area 231 in FIG. 2A) and a second display area (e.g., FIG. 2a), and a third display area extending from the first display area to the second display area (e.g., the third display area 233 in FIG. 2A, and the first display area 233 in FIG. 2A). configured to provide a plurality of states, including a first state in which a first direction in which the display area faces corresponds to a second direction in which the second display area faces and a second state in which the first direction is opposite to the second direction. , may include a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display panel 230 of FIG. 2A). The electronic device may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing 210 of FIG. 2a) supporting the first display area. ), and may further include a second housing (e.g., the second housing 220 in FIG. 2A) that supports the second display area and is spaced apart from the first housing. The electronic device includes the first housing and the A first support plate (e.g., the first support plate 310 in FIG. 3) and a second support plate (e.g., the second support plate in FIG. 3) that are movable with respect to the second housing and are configured to support the third display area. A hinge supporting the third display area, including a plate 320) and a hinge structure rotatably connecting the second support plate to the first support plate (e.g., the hinge structure 260 in FIG. 2C). It may further include an assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly 300 of FIG. 3). The hinge structure moves relative to the first housing and the second housing based on the first state among the plurality of states. It may be configured to provide a folding axis (e.g., folding axis f in FIG. 2A) for folding the third display area, which is moved according to the hinge assembly. According to the electronic device 101, by providing the folding axis that moves along the hinge assembly that is movable within the first state, the electronic device 101 provides a plurality of states that can be changed according to the movement of the folding axis. You can. The electronic device may provide a variety of user experiences to the user of the electronic device through the plurality of states. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the second display area is configured to display the second display area as the folding axis moves in a third direction toward the first housing or a fourth direction toward the second housing in the first state. The area facing the first display area may change within the state. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device can change the area of the second display area facing the first display area by the folding axis, thereby providing a variety of user experiences to the user of the electronic device. You can. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the distance from a side parallel to the folding axis of the first housing to the folding axis is determined by moving the folding axis in the third or fourth direction in the first state. may change depending on According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device can change the distance from the one side of the first housing to the folding axis by the folding axis, thereby providing a variety of user experiences to the user of the electronic device. You can. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, a portion of the first support plate may be surrounded by the first housing, and a portion of the second support plate may be surrounded by the second housing. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first support plate and the second support plate may support the third display area regardless of movement of the hinge assembly in the first state. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the first support plate is exposed to the outside of the first housing as the hinge assembly moves relative to the first housing in the first state, or is exposed to the outside of the first housing. It may include a first slide area (eg, first slide area 315 in FIG. 3) covered by the housing. The second support plate is a second slide area exposed to the outside of the second housing or obscured by the second housing as the hinge assembly moves relative to the second housing in the first state. (For example, the second slide area 325 in FIG. 3) may be included. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device includes the first sliding area and the second sliding area, thereby supporting the third display area regardless of movement of the hinge assembly in the first state. can do. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the first slide area may contact the second slide area within the first state. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the first sliding area and the second sliding area contact each other in the first state, so that the hinge assembly can be configured to be movable in the first state. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the size of the first display area (e.g., size s1 in FIG. 3) is the size of the second display area (e.g., size s2 in FIG. 3) and the third display area. It may be equal to the sum of the sizes (e.g., size s3 in FIG. 3). According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the size of the first display area is equal to the sum of the size of the second display area and the size of the third display area, so that the folding axis is movable in the first state, Various user experiences can be provided to users of the electronic device. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the size of the hinge assembly (eg, size s4 in FIG. 3) may be larger than the size of the third display area. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the size of the hinge assembly is larger than the size of the third display area, so that the hinge assembly displays the third display area regardless of the movement of the hinge assembly in the first state. I can support it. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the second housing includes a first locking structure within the second housing disposed along an edge of the second housing, perpendicular to the folding axis (e.g., first locking structure 410 in Figure 4A). ), and may include the

first locking structures

411 and 412 of FIG. 4C. The hinge assembly includes a second locking structure disposed along an edge of the hinge assembly perpendicular to the folding axis and movable relative to the first locking structure in response to the movement of the hinge assembly (e.g., the second locking structure in FIG. 4A It may further include a locking structure 420 (the fourth locking structure 440 in FIG. 4C). The second locking structure has a locking state that secures the hinge assembly to the second housing while the second locking structure is in contact with the first locking structure and while the second locking structure is spaced apart from the first locking structure. The hinge assembly may be configured to provide a movable unlocked state with respect to the first housing and the second housing. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device may provide the locked state and the unlocked state within the first state by including the first locking structure and the second locking structure. The first locking structure and the second locking structure may secure the hinge assembly relative to the first housing and the second housing in the first state by providing the locking state. The first locking structure and the second locking structure may be configured to provide the unlocked state so that a user of the electronic device can move the hinge assembly within the first state. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the second locking structure includes a button exposed to the outside (e.g., the button 421 in FIG. 4A, the first button 421a and the second button 441a in FIG. 4C), and the button's At least one rod rotatable through pressure and facing the second housing (e.g., at least one rod 450 in FIG. 4A,

rods

451, 452, 453, 454 in FIG. 4C), and the at least At least one elastic part (e.g., at least one elastic part 423 and the second elastic part 423b in FIG. 4a) disposed at one end of one rod (e.g., the other end 450c in FIG. 4a) It can be included. The at least one rod may be configured to contact the first locking structure through the at least one elastic portion in the locked state and to be spaced apart from the first locking structure through pressing the button in the unlocked state. You can. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device includes a button exposed to the outside, thereby easily providing the user of the electronic device with an unlocked state in which the hinge assembly is movable through pressing the button. there is. The electronic device may provide the locked state and the unlocked state by including the at least one rod and the at least one elastic part linked to the button. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the button may be placed on the folding axis. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, by placing the button on the folding axis, the electronic device can guide the user of the electronic device to the location of the folding axis. The button may guide the user to place the folding axis at a designated location. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly may further include at least one protrusion (e.g., at least one protrusion 460 in FIG. 4A) disposed along one edge of the hinge assembly parallel to the folding axis. there is. The second housing may accommodate the at least one protrusion and include a first guide groove (eg, the first guide groove 470 in FIG. 4A) for guiding the movement of the hinge assembly. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device includes the protrusion accommodated in the first guide groove, thereby reducing deviation of the hinge assembly from the moving direction in the first state. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly may further include a guide gear (eg, guide gear 480 in FIG. 4A) disposed at an edge of the hinge assembly parallel to the folding axis. The second housing includes a plurality of protrusions (e.g., a plurality of protrusions 495 in FIG. 4A) engaged with the guide gear, and a second guide groove (e.g., a plurality of protrusions 495 in FIG. 4A) for guiding the movement of the hinge assembly. It may include a second guide groove 495 in FIG. 4A). According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device may guide the position of the hinge assembly according to movement of the hinge assembly by including the guide gear engaged with the second guide groove. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, it may further include a control unit (eg, control unit 710 in FIG. 7) electrically connected to the guide gear and configured to control rotation of the guide gear. Based on receiving a signal requesting movement of the hinge assembly, the control unit rotates the guide gear to move the hinge assembly in a third direction toward the first housing or a fourth direction toward the second housing. It can be configured to move. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device may be configured to include the control unit so that a user of the electronic device can easily move the hinge assembly and the folding axis provided by the hinge assembly. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, a switch disposed on one side of the first housing (e.g., the first side 213 in FIG. 2A) perpendicular to the folding axis and electrically connected to the control unit (e.g., in FIG. 7) It may further include a switch 720). The switch instructs the control unit to move the hinge assembly in the third direction based on the first portion of the switch facing the first housing (e.g., the first portion 721 in FIG. 7) being pressed. By transmitting a first request signal and based on the second portion of the switch facing the second housing (e.g., the second portion 722 in FIG. 7) being pressed, the control unit moves the hinge assembly to the fourth portion. It may be configured to transmit a second signal requesting movement in the direction. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device includes the control unit and the switch, so that a user of the electronic device can be configured to easily move the hinge assembly and the folding axis provided by the hinge assembly. there is. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a first display area, a second display area, and a third display area extending from the first display area to the second display area, and toward which the first display area faces. A flexible display configured to provide a plurality of states including a first state in which the first direction corresponds to a second direction in which the second display area faces and a second state in which the first direction is opposite to the second direction. It can be included. The electronic device may further include a first housing supporting the first display area, and a second housing supporting the second display area and being spaced apart from the first housing. The electronic device includes a first support plate that is movable relative to the first housing and the second housing and is at least partially disposed in the first housing, a second support plate that is at least partially disposed in the second housing, and a hinge assembly supporting the third display area, including a hinge structure rotatably connecting the second support plate to the first support plate. The size of the hinge assembly may be larger than the size of the third display area. The hinge structure is for folding the third display area, which is moved along the hinge assembly that moves relative to the first housing and the second housing based on the first state among the plurality of states. It may be configured to provide an axis. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device 101 provides a folding axis that moves along the hinge assembly that is movable in the first state, thereby providing the electronic device with a plurality of devices that can be changed according to the movement of the folding axis. states can be provided. The electronic device may provide a variety of user experiences to the user of the electronic device through the plurality of states. The first support plate and the second support plate may support the third display area regardless of movement of the hinge assembly in the first state. Since the size of the hinge assembly is larger than the size of the third display area, the hinge assembly can support the third display area regardless of movement of the hinge assembly in the first state. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the first support plate is exposed to the outside of the first housing or is moved by the first housing as the hinge assembly moves relative to the first housing in the first state. It may include a first slide area that is obscured. The second support plate is a second slide area exposed to the outside of the second housing or obscured by the second housing as the hinge assembly moves relative to the second housing in the first state. may include. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device includes the first sliding area and the second sliding area, thereby supporting the third display area regardless of movement of the hinge assembly in the first state. can do. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the second housing may include a first locking structure in the second housing disposed along an edge of the second housing, perpendicular to the folding axis. The hinge assembly may further include a second locking structure disposed along an edge of the hinge assembly perpendicular to the folding axis and movable relative to the first locking structure according to the movement of the hinge assembly. The second locking structure has a locking state that secures the hinge assembly to the second housing while the second locking structure is in contact with the first locking structure and while the second locking structure is spaced apart from the first locking structure. The hinge assembly may be configured to provide a movable unlocked state with respect to the first housing and the second housing. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device may provide the locked state and the unlocked state within the first state by including the first locking structure and the second locking structure. The first locking structure and the second locking structure may secure the hinge assembly relative to the first housing and the second housing in the first state by providing the locking state. The first locking structure and the second locking structure may be configured to provide the unlocked state so that a user of the electronic device can move the hinge assembly within the first state. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly may further include at least one protrusion disposed along one edge of the hinge assembly parallel to the folding axis. The second housing may accommodate the at least one protrusion and include a first guide groove for guiding movement of the hinge assembly. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device includes the protrusion accommodated in the first guide groove, thereby reducing deviation of the hinge assembly from the moving direction in the first state. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

According to one embodiment, the hinge assembly may further include a guide gear disposed at one edge of the hinge assembly parallel to the folding axis. The second housing may include a plurality of protrusions engaged with the guide gear and a second guide groove for guiding movement of the hinge assembly. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, the electronic device may guide the position of the hinge assembly according to movement of the hinge assembly by including the guide gear engaged with the second guide groove. The above-mentioned embodiments may have various effects including the above-mentioned effects.

Electronic devices according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various types. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to embodiments of this document are not limited to the above-described devices.

The various embodiments of this document and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various changes, equivalents, or replacements of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numbers may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the above items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, “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 “A Each of phrases such as “at least one of , B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or any possible combination thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one element from another, and may be used to distinguish such elements in other respects, such as importance or order) is not limited. One (e.g. first) component is said to be "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g. second) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively". Where mentioned, it means that any of the components can be connected to the other components directly (e.g. wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

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

Various embodiments of the present document are one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., built-in memory 136 or external memory 138) that can be read by a machine (e.g., electronic device 101). It may be implemented as software (e.g., program 140) including these. For example, a processor (e.g., processor 120) of a device (e.g., electronic device 101) may call at least one command among one or more commands stored from a storage medium and execute it. This allows the device to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. A storage medium that can be read by a device may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g. electromagnetic waves), and this term refers to cases where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium. There is no distinction between temporary storage cases.

According to one embodiment, methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be included and provided in a computer program product. Computer program products are commodities and can be traded between sellers and buyers. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g. compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)) or through an application store (e.g. Play Store™) or on two user devices (e.g. It can be distributed (e.g. downloaded or uploaded) directly between smart phones) or online. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the above-described components may include a single or plural entity, and some of the plurality of entities may be separately placed in other components. there is. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations described above may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple components (eg, modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each component of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component of the plurality of components prior to the integration. . According to various embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, or omitted. Alternatively, one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

In the electronic device 101,

Includes a first display area 231, a second display area 232, and a third display area 233 extending from the first display area 231 to the second display area 232, 1 A first state in which the first direction in which the display area 231 faces corresponds to the second direction in which the second display area 232 faces, and a second state in which the first direction is opposite to the second direction. A flexible display 230, configured to provide a plurality of states;

a first housing 210 supporting the first display area 231;

a second housing 220 supporting the second display area 232 and spaced apart from the first housing 210; and

A first support plate 310 and a second support plate 320 that are movable relative to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 and support the third display area 233, a hinge assembly 300 supporting the third display area 233, including a hinge structure 260 rotatably connecting the second support plate 320 to the first support plate 310; Including,

The hinge structure 260 is,

The third, which moves according to the hinge assembly 300, which moves relative to the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 based on the first state among the plurality of states. configured to provide a folding axis f for folding the display area 233,

Electronic device (101).
According to paragraph 1,

The second display area 232 is,

As the folding axis f moves in the third direction toward the first housing 210 or the fourth direction toward the second housing 220 in the first state, the folding axis f moves in the third direction toward the second housing 220 in the first state. The area facing the first display area 231 changes,

Electronic device (101).
According to claim 1 or 2,

The distance from one side parallel to the folding axis (f) of the first housing 210 to the folding axis (f) is,

Changes as the folding axis (f) moves in the third or fourth direction within the first state,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 3,

A portion of the first support plate 310,

Surrounded by the first housing 210,

A portion of the second support plate 320 is,

Surrounded by the second housing 220,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 4,

The first support plate 310 is,

In the first state, as the hinge assembly 300 moves relative to the first housing 210, it is exposed to the outside of the first housing 210 or is exposed to the outside of the first housing 210. It includes a first slide area 315 covered by,

The second support plate 320,

In the first state, as the hinge assembly 300 moves relative to the second housing 220, it is exposed to the outside of the second housing 220 or is obscured by the second housing 220. Comprising a second slide area 325,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 5,

The first slide area 315 is,

Within the first state, in contact with the second slide area 325,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 6,

The size of the first display area 231 is,

Equal to the sum of the size of the second display area 232 and the size of the third display area 233,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 7,

The size of the hinge assembly 300 is,

Larger than the size of the third display area 233,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 8,

The second housing 220 is,

a first locking structure (410) in the second housing (220) disposed along an edge of the second housing (220) perpendicular to the folding axis (f),

The hinge assembly 300,

A second locking structure ( 420; 440),

The second locking structure (420; 440) is,

a locking state that secures the hinge assembly (300) to the second housing (220) while the second locking structure (420; 440) is in contact with the first locking structure (410); configured to provide an unlocked state in which the hinge assembly (300) is movable relative to the first housing (210) and the second housing (220) while the hinge assembly (440) is spaced apart from the first locking structure (410),

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 9,

The second locking structure (420; 440) is,

Button 421 exposed to the outside;

At least one rod (450; 452; 454) that is rotatable by pressing the button (421) and faces the second housing (220); and

It includes at least one elastic portion (423b) disposed at one end of the at least one rod (450; 452; 454),

The at least one rod (450; 452; 454) is,

Contacting the first locking structure 410 through the at least one elastic portion 423b in the locked state, and pressing the button 421 in the unlocked state Constructed to be separated from,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 10,

The button 421 is,

disposed on the folding axis (f),

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 11,

The hinge assembly 300,

Further comprising at least one protrusion 460 disposed along one edge of the hinge assembly 300 parallel to the folding axis f,

The second housing 220 is,

Accommodating the at least one protrusion 460 and including a first guide groove 470 for guiding the movement of the hinge assembly 300,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 12,

The hinge assembly 300,

a guide gear 480 disposed at one edge of the hinge assembly 300 parallel to the folding axis (f); It further includes,

The second housing 220 is,

It includes a plurality of protrusions 495 engaged with the guide gear 480, and includes a second guide groove 490 for guiding the movement of the hinge assembly 300.

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 13,

A control unit 710 electrically connected to the guide gear 480 and configured to control rotation of the guide gear 480; It further includes,

The control unit 710,

Based on receiving a signal requesting movement of the hinge assembly 300, the guide gear 480 is rotated to move the hinge assembly 300 in a third direction toward the first housing 210 or the third direction. 2 configured to move in the fourth direction toward the housing 220,

Electronic device (101).
According to any one of claims 1 to 14,

a switch 720 disposed on one side of the first housing 210 perpendicular to the folding axis f and electrically connected to the control unit 710; It further includes,

The switch 720 is,

Based on the first portion 721 of the switch 720 facing the first housing 210 being pressed, requesting the control unit 710 to move the hinge assembly 300 in the third direction. transmitting a first signal,

Based on the second portion 722 of the switch 720 facing the second housing 220 being pressed, requesting the control unit 710 to move the hinge assembly 300 in the fourth direction. configured to transmit a second signal,

Electronic device (101).