Foldable electronic device including receiving coil for wireless charging

A foldable electronic device is provided, which includes a display having a first display area and a second display area that are arranged in a same direction when the foldable electronic device is in a flat state. The foldable electronic device further includes a first housing structure that surrounds at least part of the first display area, a second housing structure that is connected to the first housing structure and that surrounds at least part of the second display area, and a first receiving coil disposed in a first magnetic field area at an edge of the first housing structure.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is based on and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0031709, filed on Mar. 20, 2019, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The disclosure relates generally to a foldable electronic device.

2. Description of Related Art

An electronic device such as a smartphone may include a receiving coil in connection with charging a battery. For example, the receiving coil may correspond to a transmitting coil of a wireless charger to form a magnetic field. The magnetic field may generate an induced current in the receiving coil and charge the battery of the electronic device.

SUMMARY

An aspect of the disclosure is to provide a flexible display including two display areas that form one connected screen, wherein the two display areas may be bent in different directions.

Another aspect of the disclosure is to provide to provide a flexible display including two display areas, wherein when the two display areas are in a flat state, a receiving coil is biased to one side from a central portion of the electronic device.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, a foldable electronic device is provided, which includes a display having a first display area and a second display area that face a same direction when foldable electronic device is in a flat state, a first housing structure that surrounds at least part of the first display area, a second housing structure that is connected to the first housing structure and that surrounds at least part of the second display area, and a first receiving coil disposed in a first magnetic field area at an edge of the first housing structure.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a foldable electronic device is provided, which includes a display having a first display area and a second display area that face a same direction when foldable electronic device is in a flat state, a first housing structure that surrounds at least part of the first display area, a second housing structure that is connected to the first housing structure and that surrounds at least part of the second display area, and a first receiving coil disposed in a first magnetic field area at an edge of the first housing structure. The first housing structure includes at least one of a first slit formed in the first magnetic field area adjacent to a first end of the first receiving coil and a second slit formed in the first magnetic field area adjacent to a second end of the first receiving coil.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that modification, equivalent, and/or alternative on the various embodiments described herein can be variously made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

FIG. 1illustrates a flat state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 2illustrates a folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, an electronic device10includes a foldable housing500, a hinge cover530that covers a foldable portion of the foldable housing500, and a flexible or foldable display110that is disposed in a space formed by the foldable housing500. A surface on which the display110is disposed may be referred to as a first surface or a front surface of the electronic device10. An opposite surface to the front surface may be referred to as a second surface or a rear surface of the electronic device10. The surfaces that surround a space between the front surface and the rear surface may be referred to as third surfaces or side surfaces of the electronic device10.

The foldable housing500includes a first housing structure510, a second housing structure520including a sensor area524, a first back cover580, and a second back cover590. The foldable housing500is not limited to the form and coupling illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2and may be implemented by a combination and/or coupling of other shapes or parts. For example, the first housing structure510and the first back cover580may be integrated with each other, and the second housing structure520and the second back cover590may be integrated with each other.

The first housing structure510and the second housing structure520may be disposed on opposite sides of a folding axis (axis A) and may have shapes that are entirely symmetric to each other with respect to the folding axis A. The angle or distance between the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520may vary depending on whether the electronic device10is in a flat state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. The second housing structure520additionally includes a sensor area524in which various sensors are disposed. The first housing structure510and the second housing structure520have a mutually symmetrical shape in the other areas.

The first housing structure510and the second housing structure520may form a recess in which the display110is received. Due to the sensor area524, the recess may have two or more different widths in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis A.

For example, the recess may have (1) a first width w1between a first portion510aof the first housing structure510that is parallel to the folding axis A and a first portion520aof the second housing structure520that is formed on the periphery of the sensor area524and (2) a second width w2between a second portion510bof the first housing structure510and a second portion520bof the second housing structure520that does not correspond to the sensor area524and that is parallel to the folding axis A. The second width w2may be formed to be greater than the first width w1. That is, the first portion510aof the first housing structure510and the first portion520aof the second housing structure520that have mutually asymmetrical shapes may form the first width w1of the recess, and the second portion510bof the first housing structure510and the second portion520bof the second housing structure520that have mutually symmetrical shapes may form the second width w2of the recess.

The first portion520aand the second portion520bof the second housing structure520may have different distances from the folding axis A. The widths of the recess are not limited to the illustrated example. For example, the recess may have a plurality of widths depending on the form of the sensor area524or the asymmetrical portions of the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520.

At least part of the first housing structure510and at least part of the second housing structure520may be formed of a metallic material or a non-metallic material that has a stiffness selected to support the display110.

The sensor area524may have a predetermined area formed adjacent to one corner of the second housing structure520. However, the arrangement, shape, and size of the sensor area524are not limited to the illustrated example. For example, the sensor area524may be provided in another corner of the second housing structure520or in any area between an upper corner and a lower corner of the second housing structure520.

Parts embedded in the electronic device10to perform various functions may be exposed on the front surface of the electronic device10though the sensor area524or through one or more openings formed in the sensor area524. The parts may include various types of sensors, such as a front camera, a receiver, and/or a proximity sensor.

The first back cover580may be disposed on one side of the folding axis A on the rear surface of the electronic device10. The first back cover580may have a substantially rectangular periphery, and the periphery may be surrounded by the first housing structure510. Similarly, the second back cover590may be disposed on an opposite side of the folding axis A on the rear surface of the electronic device10and may have a periphery surrounded by the second housing structure520.

The first back cover580and the second back cover590may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (the axis A). However, the first back cover580and the second back cover590do not necessarily have to have mutually symmetrical shapes. The electronic device10may include the first back cover580and the second back cover590that have various shapes. Alternatively, the first back cover580may be integrated with the first housing structure510, and the second back cover590may be integrated with the second housing structure520.

The first back cover580, the second back cover590, the first housing structure510, and the second housing structure520may form a space in which various parts (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB) or a battery) of the electronic device10are disposed. One or more parts may be disposed, or visually exposed, on the rear surface of the electronic device10. At least part of a sub-display190may be visually exposed through a first rear area582of the first back cover580. Alternatively, one or more parts or sensors may be visually exposed through a second rear area592of the second back cover590. The sensors may include a proximity sensor and/or a rear camera.

Referring toFIG. 2, the hinge cover530may be disposed between the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520and may be configured to hide an internal part (e.g., a hinge structure). The hinge cover530may be hidden by part of the first housing structure510and part of the second housing structure520, or may be exposed to the outside, depending on a state (a flat state or a folded state) of the electronic device10.

For example, when the electronic device10is in a flat state as illustrated inFIG. 1, the hinge cover530may not be exposed by being hidden by the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520. However, when the electronic device10is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state) as illustrated inFIG. 2, the hinge cover530may be exposed to the outside from between the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520. When the electronic device10is in an intermediate state, i.e., when the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520are folded with a certain angle between the folded state and the flat state, the hinge cover530may be partially exposed to the outside from between the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520. However, the exposed area may be smaller than that when the electronic device10is in the fully folded state. The hinge cover530may include a curved surface.

The display110may be disposed in the space formed by the foldable housing500. For example, the display110may be mounted in the recess formed by the foldable housing500and may form almost the entire front surface of the electronic device10.

The front surface of the electronic device10includes the display110, and a partial area of the first housing structure510and a partial area of the second housing structure520that are adjacent to the display110. Further, the rear surface of the electronic device10includes the first back cover580, a partial area of the first housing structure510that is adjacent to the first back cover580, the second back cover590, and a partial area of the second housing structure520that is adjacent to the second back cover590.

At least a portion of the display110may be formed into a flat surface or a curved surface. The display110includes a folding area113, a first area111disposed on one side of the folding area113(on a left side of the folding area113illustrated inFIG. 1), and a second area112disposed on an opposite side of the folding area113(on a right side of the folding area113illustrated inFIG. 1).

The areas of the display110are illustrative, and the display110may be divided into a plurality of areas (e.g., four or more areas, or two areas) depending on the structure or function of the display110. For example, inFIG. 1, the areas of the display110may be divided from each other by the folding area113extending parallel to the y axis or by the folding axis (the axis A). However, the display110may be divided into areas with respect to another folding area (e.g., a folding area parallel to the x axis) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the x axis).

The first area111and the second area112may have shapes that are entirely symmetric to each other with respect to the folding area113. The second area112may include a notch that is cut depending on the presence of the sensor area524. However, in the other areas, the second area112may be symmetrical to the first area101. That is, the first area111and the second area112may include symmetrical portions and asymmetrical portions.

When the electronic device10is in a flat state (e.g.,FIG. 1), the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520may be arranged to face the same direction while forming an angle of 180 degrees therebetween. That is, the surface of the first area111of the display110and the surface of the second area112thereof face the same direction (e.g., the direction toward the front surface of the electronic device10) while forming an angle of 180 degrees therebetween. The folding area113may form the same plane with the first area111and the second area112.

When the electronic device10is in a folded state (e.g.,FIG. 2), the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520may be arranged to face each other. That is, the surface of the first area111of the display110and the surface of the second area112thereof face each other while forming a narrow angle (e.g., an angle between 0 degrees and 10 degrees). At least part of the folding area113may be formed to be a curved surface having a predetermined curvature.

When the electronic device10is in an intermediate state, the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520may be arranged to form a certain angle therebetween. The surface of the first area111of the display110and the surface of the second area112thereof may form an angle that is greater than that in the folded state and is smaller than that in the folder state. At least part of the folding area113may be formed to be a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and the curvature may be smaller than that in the folded state.

FIG. 3illustrates an exploded view of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 3, the electronic device10includes a display unit20, a bracket assembly30, a PCB600, the first housing structure510, the second housing structure520, the first back cover580, and the second back cover590. The display unit20may also be referred to as a display module or a display assembly.

The display unit20include a display110and one or more plates or layers140on which the display110is mounted. The plates140may be disposed between the display110and the bracket assembly30. The display110may be disposed on at least part of one surface (e.g., an upper surface with respect toFIG. 3) of the plates140. The plates140may be formed in a shape corresponding to the display110. For example, partial areas of the plates140may be formed in a shape corresponding to a notch114of the display110.

The bracket assembly30includes a first bracket410, a second bracket420, a hinge structure disposed between the first bracket410and the second bracket420, the hinge cover530that covers the hinge structure when viewed from the outside, and wiring members430(e.g., flexible printed circuits (FPCs)) that traverse the first bracket410and the second bracket420.

The bracket assembly30is disposed between the plates140and the PCB600. The first bracket410is disposed between the first area111of the display110and a first PCB610, and the second bracket420is disposed between the second area112of the display110and a second PCB620.

The wiring members430and at least part of the hinge structure may be disposed inside the bracket assembly30. The wiring members430may be arranged in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) across the first bracket410and the second bracket420. The wiring members430may be arranged in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) that is perpendicular to a folding axis (e.g., the y-axis or the folding axis A ofFIG. 1) of the folding area113of the electronic device10.

The PCB600includes the first PCB610disposed on one side of the first bracket410and the second PCB620disposed on one side of the second bracket420. The first PCB610and the second PCB620may be disposed in a space formed by the bracket assembly30, the first housing structure510, the second housing structure520, the first back cover580, and the second back cover590. Parts for implementing various functions of the electronic device10may be mounted on the first PCB610and the second PCB620.

The first housing structure510and the second housing structure520may be coupled to opposite sides of the bracket assembly30having the display unit20coupled thereto. As will be described below, the first housing structure510and the second housing structure520may be coupled to the bracket assembly30by sliding on the opposite sides of the bracket assembly30.

The first housing structure510includes a first rotation support surface512, and the second housing structure520includes a second rotation support surface522corresponding to the first rotation support surface512. The first rotation support surface512and the second rotation support surface522may include a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface included in the hinge cover530.

When the electronic device10is in the flat state (e.g., as illustrated inFIG. 1), the first rotation support surface512and the second rotation support surface522may cover the hinge cover530such that the hinge cover530is not exposed, or is minimally exposed, on the rear surface of the electronic device10. When the electronic device10is in a folded state (e.g., as illustrated inFIG. 2), the first rotation support surface512and the second rotation support surface522may rotate along the curved surfaces of the hinge cover530such that the hinge cover530is maximally exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device10.

FIG. 4illustrates a front side and a rear side of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 4, a foldable electronic device100includes a display110and a housing120.

The display110includes a first display area110A and a second display area110B continuous from one side of the first display area110A. For example, at least part (e.g., a rear surface of the display) of the first display area110A may be coupled to one side (e.g., a first housing structure120A) of the housing120, and the remaining parts (e.g., a screen display area) of the first display area110A may be exposed. For example, at least a part (e.g., a rear surface) of the second display area110B may be coupled to an opposite side (e.g., a second housing structure120B) of the housing120, and the remaining parts (e.g., a screen display area) of the second display area110B may be exposed. A segmenting area110C may be located between the first display area110A and the second display area110B (e.g., between a right edge of the first display area110A and a left edge of the second display area110B with respect to the illustrated drawing). For example, when an arrangement state is changed into a folded state in which the first display area110A and the second display area110B are arranged in different directions or a flat state in which the first display area110A and the second display area110B are arranged in the same direction, the segmenting area110C may include a predetermined area located between the first display area110A and the second display area110B.

The housing120includes the first housing structure120A, the second housing structure120B, and a hinge structure120C. A first magnetic field area130is formed at an edge of the first housing structure120A. A first receiving coil C1is disposed in the first magnetic field area130. A separate metal piece may be inserted into the first receiving coil C1to increase the intensity of a magnetic field. A second magnetic field area150is formed at an edge of the second housing structure120B. A second receiving coil C2is disposed in the second magnetic field area150. Alternatively, the second receiving coil C2in the second magnetic field area150may be excluded from the second housing structure120B, and only a plurality of slits may be formed in the second magnetic field area150. For example, the hinge structure120C may be located between the first housing structure120A and the second housing structure120B (e.g., between a right edge of the first housing structure120A and a left edge of the second housing structure120B with respect to the illustrated drawing). The hinge structure120C may be exposed to the outside from between the first housing structure120A and the second housing structure120B depending on a folded state of the first display area110A and the second display area110B. The hinge structure120C may be hidden by connecting portions of the first housing structure120A and the second housing structure120B depending on a flat state of the first display area110A and the second display area110B. At least part of the housing120may be formed of a metallic material or a non-metallic material and may have a predetermined stiffness to support the display110. Electronic elements that are related to operating the display110(e.g., a PCB, a battery, etc.) may be disposed in the interior of the housing120having a form that is at least partially empty.

FIG. 5illustrates a folded state of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 5, opposite display areas (e.g., the first display area110A and the second display area110B ofFIG. 4) of the foldable electronic device100may be arranged in different directions depending on a folded state of the display110. In the folded state, when the opposite display areas are arranged in the different directions, the first magnetic field area130of the first housing structure120A and the second magnetic field area150of the second housing structure120B are arranged side by side.

As a result, a third magnetic field area170is formed on the opposite side to the segmenting area110C in the foldable electronic device100in the folded state. The third magnetic field area170may represent the first magnetic field area130and the second magnetic field area150being superimposed on each other. For example, in the third magnetic field area170, a magnetic field generated from the first receiving coil C1may pass through both the first magnetic field area130and the second magnetic field area150.

FIG. 6Aillustrates a top perspective view of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment.FIG. 6Billustrates a bottom perspective view of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS. 6A and 6B, a first magnetic field area130includes a first front surface130A, a first side surface130B, and a first rear surface130C. The first front surface130A may be arranged in a first direction in which the screen display area of the first display area110A is exposed. The first side surface130B may be arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The first rear surface130C may be arranged in a third direction opposite to the first direction. The first receiving coil C1may be disposed between the first front surface130A, the first side surface130B, and the first rear surface130C. The first receiving coil C1may include, for example, at least one of a solenoid coil, a coil for magnetic secure transmission (MST), or a coil for near field communication (NFC).

A first slit S1is be formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to a first end of the first receiving coil C1(e.g., a left end of the first receiving coil C1). The first slit S1includes at least one of a first opening S11, a second opening S12, or a third opening S13. The first opening S11may be formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the first receiving coil C1. A first width W1of the first opening S11may be greater than or equal to a height of a short axis of the first receiving coil C1. The second opening S12may be formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the first receiving coil C1. A second width W2of the second opening S12may be greater than or equal to a set length (e.g., 1 mm) The third opening S13may be formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the first receiving coil C1. Further, the third opening S13may have a width equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

A second slit S2may be formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to as second end (or an opposite end) of the first receiving coil C1(e.g., a right end of the first receiving coil C1). The second slit S2may include at least one of a fourth opening S21, a fifth opening S22, or a sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21may be formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the first receiving coil C1. Further, the fourth opening S21may have a width equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22may be formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the first receiving coil C1. Further, the fifth opening S22may have a width equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23may be formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the first receiving coil C1. Further, the sixth opening S23may have a width equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The second slit S2may correspond to the first slit S1with the first receiving coil C1therebetween.

The second magnetic field area150includes a second front surface150A, a second side surface150B, and a second rear surface150C. The second front surface150A may be arranged in the first direction opposite to the screen display area of the second display area110B. The second side surface150B may be arranged in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second rear surface150C may be arranged in the third direction opposite to the first direction. The second receiving coil C2may be disposed between the second front surface150A, the second side surface150B, and the second rear surface150C. When the first display area110A and the second display area110B are folded to face different directions, the position of the second receiving coil C2may correspond to the position of the first receiving coil C1. Further, when the first receiving coil C1is adjacent to the second receiving coil C2, the second receiving coil C2may form a magnetic field having polarities in the same direction as the first receiving coil C1.

A third slit S3may be formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to a first end of the second receiving coil C2(e.g., a left end of the second receiving coil C2). The third slit S3may include at least one of a seventh opening S31, an eighth opening S32, or a ninth opening S33. The seventh opening S31may be formed on the second front surface150A adjacent to the first end of the second receiving coil C2. The seventh opening S31may have a first width W1that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The eighth opening S32may be formed on the second side surface150B adjacent to the first end of the second receiving coil C2. The eighth opening S32may have a second width W2that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The ninth opening S33may be formed on the second rear surface150C adjacent to the first end of the second receiving coil C2. The ninth opening S33may have a width equal to the first width W1of the seventh opening S31.

A fourth slit S4may be formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to a second end (or an opposite end) of the second receiving coil C2(e.g., a right end of the second receiving coil C2). The fourth slit S4may include at least one of a tenth opening S41, an eleventh opening S42, or a twelfth opening S43. The tenth opening S41may be formed on the second front surface150A adjacent to the second end of the second receiving coil C2. The tenth opening S41may have a width equal to the first width W1of the seventh opening S31. The eleventh opening S42may be formed on the second side surface150B adjacent to the second end of the second receiving coil C2. The eleventh opening S42may have a width equal to the second width W2of the eighth opening S32. The twelfth opening S43may be formed on the second rear surface150C adjacent to the second end of the second receiving coil C2. The twelfth opening S43may have a width equal to the first width W1of the seventh opening S31. When in a flat state in which the first display area110A and the second display area110B are arranged in the same direction, the fourth slit S4may correspond to the third slit S3with the second receiving coil C2therebetween. When in a folded state in which the first display area110A and the second display area110B are arranged in different directions, the fourth slit S4may correspond to the third slit S3with the first receiving coil C1therebetween.

At least a part of the opening-formed portions of each of the first slit S1, the second slit S2, the third slit S3, and the fourth slit S4may be filled with a non-conductive material.

FIG. 7illustrates an electric power transmission/reception relationship between a foldable electronic device and a wireless charging device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 7, a foldable electronic device230may be positioned near a wireless charging device220. The foldable electronic device230may receive electric power from the wireless charging device220. The wireless charging device220may generate a magnetic field of a transmitting coil221(e.g., a solenoid coil) by using electric power supplied from an external power source210. The electric power supplied from the external power source210may include an electric current I1with a first magnitude. In the foldable electronic device230, an induced current may be generated in a receiving coil231(e.g., a solenoid coil) by the magnetic field of the transmitting coil221. The induced current may include an electric current I2with a second magnitude. The electric current I2with the second magnitude that is measured by a measurement device240(e.g., a galvanometer) may be differently measured depending on the structures of slits (e.g., the first to fourth slits S1to S4ofFIGS. 6A and 6B).

FIG. 8Aillustrates a first slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 8Billustrates a second slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 8Cillustrates a third slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 8Dillustrates a fourth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 8Eillustrates a fifth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

Using the slit structures illustrated inFIGS. 8A to 8E, the results of Table 1 below may be derived based on the electric power transmission/reception relationship ofFIG. 7.

Referring toFIG. 8A, the receiving coil231is disposed in the first magnetic field area130of the housing. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to a first end of the receiving coil231(e.g., a left end of the receiving coil231). The first slit S1includes the second opening S12. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 1 mm).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to a second end (e.g., an opposite end) of the receiving coil231(e.g., a right end of the receiving coil231). The second slit S2includes the fifth opening S22. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 1 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 1 above, according to the first slit structure, an electric current is non-measurable when 9 W (or 5 W) of electric power is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 8B, similar toFIG. 8A, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the second opening S12. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231(e.g., the right end of the receiving coil231). The second slit S2includes the fifth opening S22. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 1 above, according to the second slit structure, an electric current is non-measurable when 9 W (or 5 W) of electric power is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 8C, similar toFIG. 8A, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11and the second opening S12. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be greater than a height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 1 mm).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21and the fifth opening S22. The fourth opening S21extends from the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231to the first opening S11. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11(e.g., greater than the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231). The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 1 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 1 above, according to the third slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,792 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 55.8%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,792 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,803 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 55.46%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,803 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 8D, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11and the second opening S12. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be formed to be greater than the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21and the fifth opening S22. The fourth opening S21extends from the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231to the first opening S11. The fourth opening S21has a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11(e.g., greater than the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231). The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22has a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 1 above, according to the fourth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,707 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 58.58%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,707 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,729 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 57.84%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,729 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 8E, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11and the second opening S12. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21and the fifth opening S22. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11(e.g., equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231). The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 1 above, according to the fifth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,702 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 58.75%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,702 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,730 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 57.8%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,730 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

FIG. 9Aillustrates a sixth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 9Billustrates a seventh slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

Using the slit structures inFIGS. 9A and 9B, the results as shown in Table 2 below may be derived based on the electric power transmission/reception relationship ofFIG. 7.

Referring toFIG. 9A, the receiving coil231is disposed in the first magnetic field area130of the housing. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231(e.g., the left end of the receiving coil231). The first slit S1includes the first opening S11, the second opening S12, and the third opening S13. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be formed to be equal to the height of the short axis (e.g., the short axis ofFIG. 6A) of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm) The third opening S13is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third opening S13may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11(e.g., equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231(e.g., the right end of the receiving coil231). The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21, the fifth opening S22, and the sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The sixth opening S23may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

As shown in Table 2 above, according to the sixth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,707 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 58.58%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,707 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,729 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 57.84%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,729 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 9B, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11and the second opening S12. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21and the fifth opening S22. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 2 above, according to the seventh slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude is non-measurable when 9 W (or 5 W) of electric power is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

FIG. 10Aillustrates an eighth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 10Billustrates a ninth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 10Cillustrates a tenth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 10Dillustrates an eleventh slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

Using the slit structures illustrated inFIGS. 10A to 10D, the results shown in Table 3 below may be derived based on the electric power transmission/reception relationship ofFIG. 7.

Referring toFIG. 10A, the receiving coil231is disposed in the first magnetic field area130of the housing. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231(e.g., the left end of the receiving coil231). The first slit S1includes the second opening S12. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231(e.g., the right end of the receiving coil231). The second slit S2includes the fifth opening S22. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 3 above, according to the eighth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude is non-measurable when 9 W (or 5 W) of electric power is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 10B, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11, the second opening S12, and the third opening S13. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm) The third opening S13is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third opening S13may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21, the fifth opening S22, and the sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The sixth opening S23may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

As shown in Table 3 above, according to the ninth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,705 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 58.65%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,705 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,729 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 57.84%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,729 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 10C, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11, the second opening S12, and the third opening S13. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may have a length (e.g., 20 mm) that is greater than the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm) The third opening S13is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third opening S13may have a width (e.g., 20 mm) that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21, the fifth opening S22, and the sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width (e.g., 20 mm) that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The sixth opening S23may have a width (e.g., 20 mm) that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

As shown in Table 3 above, according to the tenth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,702 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 58.75%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,702 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,730 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 57.8%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,730 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 10D, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11, the second opening S12, and the third opening S13. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may have a length (e.g., 30 mm) that is greater than the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm) The third opening S13is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third opening S13may have a width (e.g., 30 mm) that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21, the fifth opening S22, and the sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width (e.g., 30 mm) that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The sixth opening S23may have a width (e.g., 30 mm) that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

As shown in Table 3 above, according to the eleventh slit structure des, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,702 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 58.75%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,702 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,728 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 57.87%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,728 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

FIG. 11Aillustrates a twelfth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.FIG. 11Billustrates a thirteenth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to the an embodiment.FIG. 11Cillustrates a fourteenth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to the an embodiment.FIG. 11Dillustrates a fifteenth slit structure formed around a receiving coil of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment.

Using the slit structures illustrated inFIGS. 11A to 11D, the results shown in Table 4 below may be derived based on the electric power transmission/reception relationship ofFIG. 7.

Referring toFIG. 11A, the receiving coil231is disposed in the first magnetic field area130of the housing. The housing is in the folded state. The first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130.

The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231(e.g., the left end of the receiving coil231). The first slit S1includes the first opening S11, the second opening S12, and the third opening S13. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm) The third opening S13is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third opening S13may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11(e.g., equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231).

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231(e.g., the right end of the receiving coil231). The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21, the fifth opening S22, and the sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The sixth opening S23may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The third slit S3and the fourth slit S4are formed in the second magnetic field area150corresponding to the first receiving coil231. The third slit S3is formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third slit S3includes the seventh opening S31. The seventh opening S31is formed on the second front surface150A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the seventh opening S31may be equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11(e.g., equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231). The fourth slit S4is formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth slit S4includes the tenth opening S41. The tenth opening S41is formed on the second front surface150A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The tenth opening S41may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

As shown in Table 4 above, according to the twelfth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude is non-measurable when 9 W (or 5 W) of electric power is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 11B, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130, and the third slit S3and the fourth slit S4are formed in the second magnetic field area150. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11, the second opening S12, and the third opening S13. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm). The third opening S13is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third opening S13may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21, the fifth opening S22, and the sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The sixth opening S23may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The third slit S3and the fourth slit S4are formed in the second magnetic field area150corresponding to the first receiving coil231. The third slit S3is formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third slit S3includes the eighth opening S32. The eighth opening S32is formed on the second side surface150B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The eighth opening S32may have a width equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

The fourth slit S4is formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth slit S4includes the eleventh opening S42. The eleventh opening S42is formed on the second side surface150B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The eleventh opening S42may have a width equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 4 above, according to the thirteenth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude is non-measurable when 9 W (or 5 W) of electric power is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 11C, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130, and the third slit S3and the fourth slit S4are formed in the second magnetic field area150. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11, the second opening S12, and the third opening S13. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm). The third opening S13is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third opening S13may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21, the fifth opening S22, and the sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The sixth opening S23may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The third slit S3and the fourth slit S4are formed in the second magnetic field area150corresponding to the first receiving coil231. The third slit S3is formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third slit S3includes the seventh opening S31and the eighth opening S32. The seventh opening S31is formed on the second front surface150A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The seventh opening S31may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The eighth opening S32is formed on the second side surface150B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The eighth opening S32may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

The fourth slit S4is formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth slit S4includes the tenth opening S41and the eleventh opening S42. The tenth opening S41is formed on the second front surface150A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The tenth opening S41may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The eleventh opening S42is formed on the second side surface150B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The eleventh opening S42may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12.

As shown in Table 4 above, according to the fourteenth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,709 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 58.51%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,709 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,732 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 57.74%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,732 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

Referring toFIG. 11D, the first slit S1and the second slit S2are formed in the first magnetic field area130, and the third slit S3and the fourth slit S4are formed in the second magnetic field area150. The first slit S1is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first slit S1includes the first opening S11, the second opening S12, and the third opening S13. The first opening S11is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The first width W1of the first opening S11may be equal to the height of the short axis of the receiving coil231. The second opening S12is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The second width W2of the second opening S12may have a set length (e.g., 10 mm) The third opening S13is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third opening S13has a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The second slit S2is formed in the first magnetic field area130adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The second slit S2includes the fourth opening S21, the fifth opening S22, and the sixth opening S23. The fourth opening S21is formed on the first front surface130A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth opening S21may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The fifth opening S22is formed on the first side surface130B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fifth opening S22may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The sixth opening S23is formed on the first rear surface130C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The sixth opening S23may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The third slit S3and the fourth slit S4are formed in the second magnetic field area150corresponding to the first receiving coil231. The third slit S3is formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The third slit S3includes the seventh opening S31, the eighth opening S32, and the ninth opening S33. The seventh opening S31is formed on the second front surface150A adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The seventh opening S31may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The eighth opening S32is formed on the second side surface150B adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The eighth opening S32may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The ninth opening S33is formed on the second rear surface150C adjacent to the first end of the receiving coil231. The ninth opening S33may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

The fourth slit S4is formed in the second magnetic field area150adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The fourth slit S4includes the tenth opening S41, the eleventh opening S42, and the twelfth opening S43. The tenth opening S41is formed on the second front surface150A adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The tenth opening S41may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11. The eleventh opening S42is formed on the second side surface150B adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The eleventh opening S42may have a width (e.g., 10 mm) that is equal to the second width W2of the second opening S12. The twelfth opening S43is formed on the second rear surface150C adjacent to the second end of the receiving coil231. The twelfth opening S43may have a width that is equal to the first width W1of the first opening S11.

As shown in Table 4 above, according to the fifteenth slit structure, an electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 9 W of electric power (I in=1,708 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 58.55%, compared to the 9 W of electric power (I in=1,708 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. An electric current with a second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) is measured when 5 W of electric power (I in=1,736 mA) is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230. The electric current with the second magnitude (e.g., I in=1,000 mA) has an efficiency of 57.6%, compared to the 5 W of electric power (I in=1,736 mA) that is supplied from the wireless charging device220to the foldable electronic device230.

As described above, different slit structures may be used depending on a flat state or a folded state of the housing. When the housing is in a flat state, the first slit S1and the second slit S2may be used. When the housing is in a folded state, the first slit S1, the second slit S2, and the third slit S3may be used, or the first slit S1, the second slit S2, the third slit S3, and the fourth slit S4may all be used.

FIG. 12Aillustrates a foldable electronic device and a wireless charging device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 12A, a foldable electronic device100is placed on a wireless charging device300in the folded state. The wireless charging device300includes a first mounting surface310, a second mounting surface320, and a third mounting surface330on which the foldable electronic device100is mounted. The first mounting surface310may support a lower portion (or an upper portion) of the foldable electronic device100. The second mounting surface320may support the display110of the foldable electronic device100. The third mounting surface330may support a third magnetic field area of the foldable electronic device100.

The first receiving coil C1is disposed in a first magnetic field area that is adjacent to the third mounting surface330. A first transmitting coil C3is disposed on the third mounting surface330adjacent to the first magnetic field area. The first transmitting coil C3may form a first magnetic field using electric power supplied to the wireless charging device300. The first magnetic field may have different polarities on both sides. When the first magnetic field is generated, the first receiving coil C1may generate an induced current corresponding to the electric power of the wireless charging device300and may form a second magnetic field corresponding to the first magnetic field. The second magnetic field may include, on both sides, polarities opposite to the polarities on the both sides of the first magnetic field. Accordingly, the foldable electronic device100may charge a battery therein by using the induced current of the first receiving coil C1.

The second receiving coil C2is disposed in a second magnetic field area that is adjacent to the third mounting surface330. A second transmitting coil C4is disposed on the third mounting surface330adjacent to the second magnetic field area. The second transmitting coil C4may form a third magnetic field by electric power supplied to the wireless charging device300. The third magnetic field may have different polarities on both sides, but the polarities may be the same as the polarities on both the sides of the first transmitting coil C3. When the third magnetic field is generated, the second receiving coil C2may generate an induced current corresponding to the electric power of the wireless charging device300and may form a fourth magnetic field corresponding to the third magnetic field. When spaced apart from the first transmitting coil C3by a predetermined distance, the second receiving coil C2may be moved closed to the second transmitting coil C4by a predetermined distance to form the fourth magnetic field, thereby preventing interference with the first receiving coil C1. The fourth magnetic field may include, on both sides, polarities opposite to the polarities on both the sides of the third magnetic field. However, the polarities on both the sides of the fourth magnetic field may be the same as the polarities on both the sides of the first receiving coil C1. Accordingly, the foldable electronic device100may charge the battery therein by using the induced current of the second receiving coil C2.

FIG. 12Billustrates a foldable electronic device and a wireless charging device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 12B, a foldable electronic device100is placed on a wireless charging device300in the flat state. The wireless charging device300includes the first mounting surface310, a second mounting surface, and the third mounting surface330on which the foldable electronic device100is mounted. The first mounting surface310may support a lower portion (or an upper portion) of the foldable electronic device100. The second mounting surface may support the rear surface of the housing of the foldable electronic device100. The third mounting surface330may support a magnetic field area of the foldable electronic device100.

The first receiving coil C1is disposed in the magnetic field area that is adjacent to the third mounting surface330. The second transmitting coil C4is disposed on the third mounting surface330adjacent to the magnetic field area. The second transmitting coil C4may form the third magnetic field using electric power supplied to the wireless charging device300. The third magnetic field may have different polarities on both sides. When the third magnetic field is generated, the first receiving coil C1may generate an induced current corresponding to the electric power of the wireless charging device300and may form the second magnetic field corresponding to the third magnetic field. The second magnetic field may include, on both sides, polarities opposite to the polarities on both the sides of the third magnetic field. Accordingly, the foldable electronic device100may charge a battery therein by using the induced current of the first receiving coil C1.

According to an embodiment, a foldable electronic device may include a display, a first housing structure, and a second housing structure. The display may have an arrangement state varying depending on a folded state in which a first display area and a second display area are arranged in different directions or a flat state in which the first display area and the second display area are arranged in the same direction. The first housing structure may surround at least part of the first display area. The second housing structure may be connected to the first housing structure and may surround at least part of the second display area. A first receiving coil C1may be disposed in a first magnetic field area at an edge of the first housing structure.

The first housing structure may include a first slit. The first slit may have at least one of a first opening formed on a first front surface of the first magnetic field area adjacent to a first end of the first receiving coil, a second opening formed on a first side surface of the first magnetic field area adjacent to the first end of the first receiving coil, and a third opening formed on a first rear surface of the first magnetic field area adjacent to the first end of the first receiving coil.

A first width of the first opening may have at least a length equal to a height of a short axis of the first receiving coil.

The first housing structure may include a second slit. The second slit may have at least one of a fourth opening formed on the first front surface of the first magnetic field area adjacent to a second end of the first receiving coil, a fifth opening formed on the first side surface of the first magnetic field area adjacent to the second end of the first receiving coil, and a sixth opening formed on the first rear surface of the first magnetic field area adjacent to the second end of the first receiving coil.

The first slit and the second slit may be disposed to correspond to each other with the first receiving coil therebetween.

A second magnetic field area corresponding to the first magnetic field area may be formed at an edge of the second housing structure.

The second housing structure may include a third slit. The third slit may have at least one of a seventh opening formed on a second front surface of the second magnetic field area adjacent to a first end of the first receiving coil, an eighth opening formed on a second side surface of the second magnetic field area adjacent to the first end of the first receiving coil, and a ninth opening formed on a second rear surface of the second magnetic field area adjacent to the first end of the first receiving coil.

A first width of the seventh opening may have at least a length equal to a height of a short axis of the first receiving coil.

The second housing structure may include a fourth slit. The fourth slit may have at least one of a tenth opening formed on the second front surface of the second magnetic field area adjacent to a second end of the first receiving coil, an eleventh opening formed on the second side surface of the second magnetic field area adjacent to the second end of the first receiving coil, and a twelfth opening formed on the second rear surface of the second magnetic field area adjacent to the second end of the first receiving coil.

The third slit and the fourth slit may be disposed to correspond to each other with the first receiving coil therebetween when the first display area and the second display area are in the folded state.

The first receiving coil may form a second magnetic field when a first magnetic field of a first transmitting coil approaches the first receiving coil by a predetermined distance.

The first receiving coil may include at least a solenoid coil.

A second receiving coil corresponding to the first receiving coil may be disposed in a second magnetic field area at an edge of the second housing structure.

The second receiving coil may form a fourth magnetic field when a third magnetic field of a second transmitting coil approaches the second receiving coil by a predetermined distance.

The fourth magnetic field may have polarities in the same direction as polarities of a second magnetic field formed around the first receiving coil C1.

According to an embodiment, a foldable electronic device may include a display, a first housing structure, and a second housing structure. The display may have an arrangement state varying depending on a folded state in which a first display area and a second display area are arranged in different directions or a flat state in which the first display area and the second display area are arranged in the same direction. The first housing structure may surround at least part of the first display area. The second housing structure may be connected to the first housing structure and may surround at least part of the second display area. A first receiving coil may be disposed in a first magnetic field area at an edge of the first housing structure. The first housing structure may include at least one of a first slit formed in the first magnetic field area adjacent to a first end of the first receiving coil and a second slit formed in the first magnetic field area adjacent to a second end of the first receiving coil.

The first slit and the second slit may be disposed to correspond to each other with the first receiving coil therebetween.

A second magnetic field area corresponding to the first magnetic field area may be formed at an edge of the second housing structure.

The second housing structure may include at least one of a third slit formed in the second magnetic field area adjacent to the first end of the first receiving coil or a fourth slit formed in the second magnetic field area adjacent to the second end of the first receiving coil.

The third slit and the fourth slit may be disposed to correspond to each other with the first receiving coil therebetween when the first display area and the second display area are in the folded state.

FIG. 13illustrates an electronic device1301in a network environment1300according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 13, the electronic device1301in the network environment1300may communicate with an electronic device1302via a first network1398(e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or an electronic device1304or a server1308via a second network1399(e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device1301may communicate with the electronic device1304via the server1308. According to an embodiment, the electronic device1301may include a processor1320, memory1330, an input device1350, a sound output device1355, a display device1360, an audio module1370, a sensor module1376, an interface1377, a haptic module1379, a camera module1380, a power management module1388, a battery1389, a communication module1390, a subscriber identification module (SIM)1396, or an antenna module1397. In some embodiments, at least one (e.g., the display device1360or the camera module1380) of the components may be omitted from the electronic device1301, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device1301. In some embodiments, some of the components may be implemented as single integrated circuitry. For example, the sensor module1376(e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented as embedded in the display device1360(e.g., a display).

The processor1320may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program1340) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device1301coupled with the processor1320, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor1320may load a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module1376or the communication module1390) in volatile memory1332, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory1332, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory1334. According to an embodiment, the processor1320may include a main processor1321(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), and an auxiliary processor1323(e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor1321. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary processor1323may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor1321, or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor1323may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor1321.

The auxiliary processor1323may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display device1360, the sensor module1376, or the communication module1390) among the components of the electronic device1301, instead of the main processor1321while the main processor1321is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor1321while the main processor1321is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor1323(e.g., an ISP or a CP) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module1380or the communication module1390) functionally related to the auxiliary processor1323.

The memory1330may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor1320or the sensor module1376) of the electronic device1301. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program1340) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory1330may include the volatile memory1332or the non-volatile memory1334.

The program1340may be stored in the memory1330as software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS)1342, middleware1344, or an application1346.

The input device1350may receive a command or data to be used by other component (e.g., the processor1320) of the electronic device1301, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device1301. The input device1350may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The sound output device1355may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device1301. The sound output device1355may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record, and the receiver may be used for an incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.

The display device1360may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device1301. The display device1360may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the display device1360may include touch circuitry adapted to detect a touch, or sensor circuitry (e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

The audio module1370may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module1370may obtain the sound via the input device1350, or output the sound via the sound output device1355or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device1302) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device1301.

The interface1377may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device1301to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1302) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an embodiment, the interface1377may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

A connecting terminal1378may include a connector via which the electronic device1301may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1302). According to an embodiment, the connecting terminal1378may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The camera module1380may capture a still image or moving images. According to an embodiment, the camera module1380may include one or more lenses, image sensors, ISPs, or flashes.

The power management module1388may manage power supplied to the electronic device1301. According to one embodiment, the power management module1388may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery1389may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device1301. According to an embodiment, the battery1389may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

The communication module1390may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device1301and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device1302, the electronic device1304, or the server1308) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module1390may include one or more CPs that are operable independently from the processor1320(e.g., the AP) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module1390may include a wireless communication module1392(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 module1394(e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network1398(e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network1399(e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a cellular network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module1392may identify and authenticate the electronic device1301in a communication network, such as the first network1398or the second network1399, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module1396.

The antenna module1397may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device1301. According to an embodiment, the antenna module1397may include an antenna including a radiating element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., PCB). According to an embodiment, the antenna module1397may include a plurality of antennas. In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network1398or the second network1399, may be selected, for example, by the communication module1390(e.g., the wireless communication module1392) from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module1390and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module1397.

According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device1301and the external electronic device1304via the server1308coupled with the second network1399. Each of the electronic devices1302and1304may be a device of a same type as, or a different type, from the electronic device1301. According to an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic device1301may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices1302,1304, or1308. For example, if the electronic device1301should perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device1301, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device1301. The electronic device1301may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at least part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing technology may be used, for example.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a foldable electronic device may perform wireless charging using a receiving coil disposed on a side of the electronic device.

In addition, the disclosure may provide various effects that are directly or indirectly recognized.