Protective cover for foldable electronic device

A protective cover for a foldable electronic device is disclosed, including a first portion configured to couple to at least part of a first housing of the electronic device, a second portion configured to couple to at least part of a second housing of the electronic device, and a connecting portion configured to cover at least part of a hinge housing of the electronic device, the connecting portion formed between the first portion and the second portion, wherein the hinge housing is connected with the first housing and the second housing such that the first housing and the second housing are foldable according to a folding axis formed therebetween, and wherein the connecting portion includes a core layer, at least a portion of which has a curvature corresponding to a curved area of the hinge housing.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

Embodiments of the disclosure described herein relate to protective covers for electronic devices, and, more particularly, to a foldable cover for a foldable electronic device.

Description of Related Art

A protective cover for an electronic device may surround a portion of an electronic device excepting the display. The protective cover may serve to protect the electronic device from external impacts.

A foldable electronic device may include a flexible display, a portion of which may be deformable to cause the display to be flat or curved. The foldable electronic device may include a first housing coupled to one side of a bendable area of the flexible display, and a second housing coupled to an opposite side of the bendable area of the flexible display. The foldable electronic device may include a hinge structure that foldably connects the first housing and the second housing. A hinge housing may cover the hinge structure.

The foldable electronic device may be folded such that the first housing and the second housing are disposed to face one another (i.e., a folded state) or to both face a same direction (i.e., a fully-opened or flat state). The hinge housing may be housed in the first housing and the second housing in the flat state, and may be at least partly exposed to an external environment in the folded state.

A protective cover may be implemented using two cover members that are separately coupled to the first housing and the second housing, respectively, without covering the hinge housing. The two cover members may be opened towards the hinge housing, and therefore cannot entirely cover and protect the respective housings.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an integrated protective cover for covering a hinge housing of a foldable electronic device, together with a first housing and a second housing.

A protective cover for protecting an electronic device according to embodiments of the disclosure includes a first portion configured to couple to at least part of a first housing of the electronic device, a second portion configured to couple to at least part of a second housing of the electronic device, and a connecting portion configured to cover at least part of a hinge housing of the electronic device, the connecting portion formed between the first portion and the second portion, wherein the hinge housing is connected with the first housing and the second housing such that the first housing and the second housing are foldable according to a folding axis formed therebetween, and wherein the connecting portion includes a core layer, at least a portion of which has a curvature corresponding to a curved area of the hinge housing.

A protective cover for an electronic device according to embodiments of the disclosure includes: a first rigid area configured to attach to one portion of the electronic device, a second rigid area configured to attach to another portion of the electronic device, a third rigid area formed between the first rigid area and the second rigid area, a first flexible area connecting the first rigid area and the third rigid area, and a second flexible area connecting the second rigid area and the third rigid area.

According to certain embodiments of the disclosure, the protective cover may cover the hinge housing of the foldable electronic device, thereby protecting the hinge housing from damage (e.g., scratches, impacts, etc.). According to certain embodiments of the disclosure, the protective cover may be integrally formed and thus firmly coupled to the electronic device.

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

With regard to description of the drawings, identical or similar reference numerals may be used to refer to identical or similar components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

FIG.1is a view illustrating a flat state of an electronic device according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.FIG.2is a view illustrating a folded state of the electronic device ofFIG.1according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.1, the electronic device100may include a pair of housing structures110and120(e.g., foldable housing structures) rotatably coupled through a hinge structure (e.g., a hinge structure164ofFIG.3) so as to be foldable relative to each other, a hinge housing (e.g., a hinge housing165ofFIG.2) covering foldable portions of the pair of housing structures110and120, and a display130(e.g., a flexible display or a foldable display) disposed in the space formed by the pair of housing structures110and120. In this disclosure, the surface on which the display130is disposed may be defined as the front surface of the electronic device100, and the surface facing away from the front surface may be defined as the rear surface of the electronic device100. Furthermore, the surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the rear surface may be defined as the side surface of the electronic device100.

In an embodiment, the pair of housing structures110and120may include the first housing structure110including a sensor area131d, the second housing structure120, a first back cover140, and a second back cover150. The pair of housing structures110and120of the electronic device100are not limited to the form and the coupling illustrated inFIGS.1and2and may be implemented by a combination and/or coupling of other shapes or components. For example, in another embodiment, the first housing structure110and the first back cover140may be integrally formed with each other, and the second housing structure120and the second back cover150may be integrally formed with each other.

According to an embodiment, the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120may be disposed on opposite sides with respect to a folding axis (an axis F) and may be formed in shapes that are entirely symmetrical to each other with respect to the folding axis (the axis F). According to an embodiment, the angle or distance formed by the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120may vary depending on whether the electronic device100is in a flat state (or, a closing state), a folded state, or an intermediate state. According to an embodiment, unlike the second housing structure120, the first housing structure110may additionally include the sensor area131din which various sensors are disposed, but may have a mutually symmetrical shape in the other area. According to another embodiment, the sensor arrangement area131dmay be additionally disposed in, or replaced with, at least a partial area of the second housing structure120.

In an embodiment, in a flat state of the electronic device100(i.e., when the electronic device100is unfolded), the first housing structure110may be connected to the hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure164ofFIG.3) and may include a first surface111disposed to face toward the front surface of the electronic device100, a second surface112facing away from the first surface111, and a first side member113surrounding at least a portion of the space between the first surface111and the second surface112. In an embodiment, the first side member113may include a first side surface113adisposed parallel to the folding axis (the axis F), a second side surface113bextending from one end of the first side surface113ain a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and a third side surface113cextending from an opposite end of the first side surface113ain the direction perpendicular to the folding axis (the axis F).

In an embodiment, in the flat state of the electronic device100, the second housing structure120may be connected with the hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure164ofFIG.3) and may include a third surface121disposed to face toward the front surface of the electronic device100, a fourth surface122facing away from the third surface121, and a second side member123surrounding at least a portion of the space between the third surface121and the fourth surface122. In an embodiment, the second side member123may include a fourth side surface123adisposed parallel to the folding axis (the axis F), a fifth side surface123bextending from one end of the fourth side surface123ain a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (the axis F), and a sixth side surface123cextending from an opposite end of the fourth side surface123ain the direction perpendicular to the folding axis (the axis F). In an embodiment, the third surface121may face the first surface111in the folded state.

In an embodiment, the electronic device100may include a recess101for accommodating the display130, through a structural shape coupling of the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120. The recess101may have substantially the same size as the display130. In an embodiment, due to the presence of the sensor area131d, the recess101may have two or more different widths in the direction perpendicular to the folding axis (the axis F). For example, the recess101may have a first width W1between a first portion120aof the second housing structure120that is parallel to the folding axis (the axis F) and a first portion110aof the first housing structure110that is formed on the periphery of the sensor area131dand a second width W2formed by a second portion120bof the second housing structure120and a second portion110bof the first housing structure110that does not correspond to the sensor area131dand that is parallel to the folding axis (the axis F). In this case, the second width W2may be formed to be longer than the first width W1. For example, the recess101may be formed to have the first width W1between the first portion110aof the first housing structure110and the first portion120aof the second housing structure120that have mutually asymmetrical shapes and the second width W2between the second portion110bof the first housing structure110and the second portion120bof the second housing structure120that have mutually symmetrical shapes. In an embodiment, the first portion110aand the second portion110bof the first housing structure110may be formed to have different distances from the folding axis (the axis F). The width of the recess101is not limited to the illustrated example. In certain embodiments, the recess101may have two or more different widths due to the form of the sensor area131dor the asymmetrically-shaped portions of the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing structure110and at least a portion of the second housing structure120may be formed of a metallic material or a non-metallic material, selected for having a stiffness of sufficient magnitude to support the display130.

In an embodiment, the sensor area131dmay be formed to have a predetermined area adjacent to one corner of the first housing structure110. However, the arrangement, shape, or size of the sensor area131dis not limited to the illustrated example. For example, in another embodiment, the sensor area131dmay be provided in another corner of the first housing structure110or in any area between the upper corner and the lower corner of the first housing structure110. In another embodiment, the sensor area131dmay be disposed in at least a partial area of the second housing structure120. In another embodiment, the sensor area131dmay be disposed to extend to the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120. In an embodiment, the electronic device100may include components that perform various functions and that are disposed to be exposed on the front surface of the electronic device100though the sensor area131dor one or more openings formed in the sensor area131d. In certain embodiments, the components may include, for example, at least one of a front camera device, a receiver, a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, an iris recognition sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an indicator.

In an embodiment, the first back cover140may be disposed on the second surface112of the first housing structure110, and may have a substantially rectangular periphery. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the periphery may be surrounded by the first housing structure110. Similarly, the second back cover150may be disposed on the fourth surface122of the second housing structure120, and at least a portion of the periphery of the second back cover150may be surrounded by the second housing structure120.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first back cover140and the second back cover150may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (the axis F). In another embodiment, the first back cover140and the second back cover150may include various different shapes. In another embodiment, the first back cover140may be integrally formed with the first housing structure110, and the second back cover150may be integrally formed with the second housing structure120.

In an embodiment, the first back cover140, the second back cover150, the first housing structure110, and the second housing structure120may provide, through a mutually coupled structure, a space in which various components (e.g., a printed circuit board, an antenna module, a sensor module, or a battery) of the electronic device100are disposed. In an embodiment, one or more components may be disposed, or visually exposed, on the rear surface of the electronic device100. For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through a first rear area141of the first back cover140. In certain embodiments, the sensors may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera device, and/or a flash. In another embodiment, at least a portion of a sub-display152may be visually exposed through a second rear area151of the second back cover150. In another embodiment, the electronic device100may include a speaker module153disposed through at least a partial area of the second back cover150.

The display130may be disposed over the space formed by the pair of housing structures110and120. For example, the display130may be mounted in the recess101formed by the pair of housing structures110and120and may be disposed to occupy substantially the entire front surface of the electronic device100. Accordingly, the front surface of the electronic device100may include the display130, and a partial area (e.g., a peripheral area) of the first housing structure110and a partial area (e.g., a peripheral area) of the second housing structure120that are adjacent to the display130. In an embodiment, the rear surface of the electronic device100may include the first back cover140, a partial area (e.g., a peripheral area) of the first housing structure110that is adjacent to the first back cover140, the second back cover150, and a partial area (e.g., a peripheral area) of the second housing structure120that is adjacent to the second back cover150.

In an embodiment, the display130may refer to a flexible display, at least a partial area of which is deformable to be flat or curved. In an embodiment, the display130may include a folding area131c, a first area131adisposed on one side of the folding area131c(e.g., on the right side of the folding area131c), and a second area131bdisposed on an opposite side of the folding area131c(e.g., on the left side of the folding area131c). For example, the first area131amay be disposed on the first surface111of the first housing structure110, and the second area131bmay be disposed on the third surface121of the second housing structure120. In an embodiment, the division of the display130into the areas is illustrative, and the display130may be divided into a plurality of areas (e.g., four or more areas, or two areas) depending on the structure or function of the display130. For example, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1, the areas of the display130may be divided from each other by the folding area131cor the folding axis (the axis F) that extends parallel to the y axis. However, in another embodiment, the display130may be divided into areas with respect to a different folding area (e.g., a folding area parallel to the x-axis) or a different folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the x-axis). The above-described division of the display130into the areas may be merely a physical division by the pair of housing structures110and120and the hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure164ofFIG.3), and one full screen may be displayed on the display130substantially through the pair of housing structures110and120and the hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure164ofFIG.3). In an embodiment, the first area131aand the second area131bmay have shapes that are entirely symmetrical to each other with respect to the folding area131c. However, unlike the second area131b, the first area131amay include a notch area (e.g., a notch area133ofFIG.3) that is cut depending on the presence of the sensor area131d, and in the other area, the first area131amay have a shape symmetrical to the second area131b. For example, the first area131aand the second area131bmay include portions having shapes symmetrical to each other and portions having shapes asymmetrical to each other.

Referring toFIG.2, the hinge housing165may be disposed between the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120and may be configured to hide or stow an internal component (e.g., the hinge structure164ofFIG.3). In an embodiment, the hinge housing165may be hidden by a portion of the first housing structure110and a portion of the second housing structure120, or may be exposed to the outside, depending on an operational state (a flat state or a folded state) of the electronic device100.

For example, when the electronic device100is disposed in a flat state as illustrated inFIG.1, the hinge housing165may not be exposed by being hidden by and/or stowed within the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120. In another example, when the electronic device100is disposed in a folded state (e.g., a completely folded state) as illustrated inFIG.2, the hinge housing165may be exposed to the outside from between the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120. In another example, when the electronic device100is in an intermediate state in which the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120are folded with a certain angle, the hinge housing165may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the electronic device100from between the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120. In this case, the exposed area may be smaller than that in the completely folded state. In an embodiment, the hinge housing165may include a curved surface.

Hereinafter, operations of the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120and the areas of the display130depending on an operational state (e.g., a flat state or a folded state) of the electronic device100will be described.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is in a flat state (e.g., the state ofFIG.1), the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120may form an angle of 180 degrees, and the first area131aand the second area131bof the display130may be disposed to face the same direction. Furthermore, the folding area131cmay form the same plane as the first area131aand the second area131b. In another embodiment, when the electronic device100is in the flat state, the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120may rotate relative to each other through an angle of 360 degrees and may be oppositely folded such that the second surface112and the fourth surface122face each other.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is disposed in a folded state (e.g., the state ofFIG.2), the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120may be disposed to face each other. The first area131aand the second area131bof the display130may face each other while forming a narrow angle (e.g., between 0 degrees and 10 degrees). At least a portion of the folding area131cmay be formed to be a curved surface having a certain curvature.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is in an intermediate state (e.g., disposed partly between folded and unfolded states), the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120may be disposed at a certain angle. The first area131aand the second area131bof the display130may form an angle that is larger than that in the folded state and smaller than that in the flat state. At least a portion of the folding area131cmay be formed to be a curved surface having a certain curvature. In this case, the curvature may be smaller than that in the folded state.

FIG.3is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device according to certain embodiments of the disclosure.

Referring toFIG.3, in an embodiment, the electronic device100may include the display130, a support member assembly160, at least one printed circuit board170, the first housing structure110, the second housing structure120, the first back cover140, and the second back cover150. In this disclosure, the display (the display unit)130may be referred to as the display module or the display assembly.

The display130may include a display panel131(e.g., a flexible display panel) and at least one plate or layer132on which the display panel131is seated. In an embodiment, the plate132may be disposed between the display panel131and the support member assembly160. The display panel131may be disposed on at least a portion of one surface of the plate132. The plate132may include a first plate1321and a second plate1322divided from each other with respect to the hinge structure164. The plate132may include at least one member that cannot be folded together when the first housing structure110and the second housing structure120are folded and/or unfolded with respect to the hinge structure164. The plate132may include at least one subsidiary material layer (e.g., a graphite member) and/or at least one conductive plate (e.g., a Cu sheet) disposed on the rear surface of the display panel131. In an embodiment, the plate132may be formed in a shape corresponding to the display panel131. For example, a partial area of the first plate1321may be formed in a shape corresponding to the notch area133of the display panel131.

The support member assembly160may include a first support member161, a second support member162, the hinge structure164disposed between the first support member161and the second support member162, the hinge housing165covering the hinge structure164when the hinge structure164is viewed from the outside, and at least one wiring member163(e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) across the first support member161and the second support member162.

In an embodiment, the support member assembly160may be disposed between the plate132and the at least one printed circuit board170. For example, the first support member161may be disposed between the first area131aof the display130and a first printed circuit board171. The second support member162may be disposed between the second area131bof the display130and a second printed circuit board172.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the wiring member163and at least a portion of the hinge structure164may be disposed inside the support member assembly160. The wiring member163may be disposed in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) across the first support member161and the second support member162. The wiring member163may be disposed in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) perpendicular to the folding axis of the folding area131c(e.g., the y-axis or the folding axis F ofFIG.1).

In an embodiment, the at least one printed circuit board170, as mentioned above, may include the first printed circuit board171disposed on one side of the first support member161and the second printed circuit board172disposed on one side of the second support member162. The first printed circuit board171and the second printed circuit board172may be disposed in the space formed by the support member assembly160, the first housing structure110, the second housing structure120, the first back cover140, and the second back cover150. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device100may be mounted on the first printed circuit board171and the second printed circuit board172.

In an embodiment, the first housing structure110may house the first printed circuit board171, a battery119, at least one sensor module181, or at least one camera module182that is disposed in the space formed through the first support member161. The first housing structure110may include a glass window183that is disposed in a position corresponding to the notch area133of the display130and that protects the at least one sensor module181and the at least one camera module182. In an embodiment, the second housing structure120may house the second printed circuit board172disposed in the space formed through the second support member162. According to an embodiment, the first housing structure110and the first support member161may be integrally formed with each other. According to an embodiment, the second housing structure120and the second support member162may also be integrally formed with each other.

In an embodiment, the first housing structure110may include a first rotation support surface114, and the second housing structure120may include a second rotation support surface124corresponding to the first rotation support surface114. The first rotation support surface114and the second rotation support surface124may include a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface included in the hinge housing165.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is in a flat state (e.g., the state ofFIG.1), the first rotation support surface114and the second rotation support surface124may cover the hinge cover165such that the hinge housing165is not exposed, or is minimally exposed, on the rear surface of the electronic device100. In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is disposed in a folded state (e.g., the state ofFIG.2), the first rotation support surface114and the second rotation support surface124may rotate along the curved surface included in the hinge housing165such that the hinge housing165is maximally exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device100.

FIG.4is a perspective view of a protective cover according to an embodiment.

In an embodiment, the protective cover200may protect the foldable electronic device100(hereinafter, referred to as the electronic device). The protective cover200may surround at least a portion of the electronic device100. For example, the protective cover200may surround a portion of the front surface (e.g., the peripheral area) through the side surface (e.g., the first side member113and the second side member123ofFIG.1) from the rear surface of the electronic device (e.g., the second surface112and the fourth surface122ofFIG.1). The protective cover200may include a flexible fabric member and a rigid core member.

The protective cover200may include a first portion210, a second portion220, and a connecting portion230.

In an embodiment, the first portion210may be coupled to at least a portion of the first housing110(e.g., the first housing structure) of the electronic device. The first portion210may include a first rear surface area211coupled to at least a portion of the second surface112of the first housing110, and a first side surface area212coupled to at least a portion of the first side member113of the first housing110. The first rear surface area211of the first housing110may be formed to be substantially flat. The first side surface area212may curvedly extend from the first rear surface area211. The first portion210may be coupled with the first housing110such that the first rear surface area211and the first side surface area212are brought into close contact with the second surface112of the first housing110and the first side member113of the first housing110, respectively. In certain embodiments, the first rear surface area211and the first side surface area212are not limited to the shapes illustrated in the drawing, and may be formed to be flat and/or curved to correspond to the shape of the first housing110of the electronic device.

In an embodiment, the second portion220may be coupled to at least a portion of the second housing120(e.g., the second housing structure) of the electronic device. The second portion220may include a second rear surface area221coupled to at least a portion of the fourth surface122of the second housing120and a second side surface area222coupled to at least a portion of the second side member123of the second housing120. The second rear surface area221may be formed to be substantially flat. The second side surface area222may curvedly extend from the second rear surface area221. The second portion220may be coupled with the second housing120such that the second rear surface area221and the second side surface area222are brought into close contact with the fourth surface122of the second housing120and the second side member123of the second housing120, respectively. In certain embodiments, the second rear surface area221and the second side surface area222are not limited to the shapes illustrated in the drawing and may be formed to be flat and/or curved to correspond to the shape of the second housing120of the electronic device.

In an embodiment, the connecting portion230may be formed between the first portion210and the second portion220. The connecting portion230may include a third rear surface area231formed between the first rear surface area211, and the second rear surface area221and a third side surface area232formed between the first side surface area212and the second side surface area222. The connecting portion230may have a smaller width than the first portion210and the second portion220. For example, the connecting portion230may include a structure extending from the first portion210, such that the width of the structure is decreased from the first portion210toward the second portion220. The connecting portion230may further include a structure extending from the second portion220, such that the width of the structure is decreased from the second portion220toward the first portion210. For example, the third side surface area232may have a smaller width than the first side surface area212and/or the second side surface area222.

FIGS.5A and5Bare a side view of the protective cover according to an embodiment.FIG.5Ais a side view of the protective cover in a flat state.FIG.5Bis a side view of the protective cover in a folded state.

In an embodiment, the protective cover200may include the first portion210in which the first housing110is mounted, the second portion220in which the second housing120is mounted, and the connecting portion230that is formed between the first portion210and the second portion220and that has a smaller width than the first portion210and the second portion220.

In an embodiment, the protective cover200may include a flat state and a folded state as a state in which the electronic device is mounted. The flat state may include a state in which the hinge housing165of the mounted electronic device is not exposed. The flat state may include a state in which the first rear surface area211and the second rear surface area221face the same direction.

In an embodiment, the folded state may include a state in which the hinge housing165of the mounted electronic device is exposed between the first housing110and the second housing120. The folded state may include a state in which the first rear surface area211and the second rear surface area221form a predetermined angle therebetween. For example, the folded state may include a fully folded state in which the first rear surface area211and the second rear surface area221face away from each other.

In the flat state illustrated inFIG.5A, at least a portion of the connecting portion230may not make contact with the first housing110and the second housing120. A portion3-1230-1of the connecting portion230that is adjacent to the first portion210may be physically coupled to the first housing110. A portion3-2230-2of the connecting portion230that is adjacent to the second portion220may be physically coupled to the second housing120. A portion3-3230-3of the connecting portion230that is formed between the portion3-1230-1and the portion3-2230-2may not make physical contact with the first housing110and the second housing120.

In the folded state illustrated inFIG.5B, the connecting portion230may face the hinge housing165of the electronic device. The connecting portion230may be formed in a shape corresponding to a portion of an outer surface166of the hinge housing165. The outer surface166of the hinge housing165may include a first curved area166-1adjacent to the first housing110, a second curved area166-2adjacent to the second housing120, and a flat area166-3formed between the first curved area166-1and the second curved area166-2. For example, the connecting portion230may have a curvature corresponding to the first curved area166-1or the second curved area166-2. The connecting portion230may be spaced apart from a portion of the outer surface166of the hinge housing165by a predetermined gap. In certain embodiments, the outer surface166of the hinge housing165may be formed of a curved area as a whole without a flat area (e.g.,166-3). In this case, the connecting portion230may be formed to be curved to have a curvature corresponding to the curved area.

Referring toFIGS.5A and5B, the first portion210and the second portion220of the protective cover200may be coupled so as to be brought into close contact with surfaces of the electronic device irrespective of a change of state of the electronic device. The connecting portion230of the protective cover200may be deformed depending on the change of state of the electronic device.

FIGS.6A,6B and6Care a sectional view of the protective cover according to an embodiment.FIG.6Ais a view illustrating a flat state of the protective cover in which the electronic device is not mounted.FIG.6Bis a view illustrating a flat state of the protective cover in which the electronic device is mounted.FIG.6Cis a view illustrating a folded state of the protective cover in which the electronic device is not mounted However, the flat state of the protective cover illustrated inFIG.6Bis not limited to the case in which the electronic device is mounted. For example,FIG.6Bmay be understood as illustrating a flat state of the protective cover in which the electronic device is not mounted.

In an embodiment, the protective cover200may include a first rigid area301, a second rigid area302, a third rigid area303, a first flexible area304, and a second flexible area305.

In certain embodiments, the first rigid area301may be included in the first portion210illustrated inFIG.5. The second rigid area302may be included in the second portion220illustrated inFIG.5. The third rigid area303may be included in the connecting portion230illustrated inFIG.5.

In an embodiment, the protective cover200may include a fabric layer310, core layers321,322, and323, and adhesive layers331and332. The fabric layer310may be integrally formed in the rigid areas301,302, and303and the flexible areas304and305. The core layers321,322, and323may include the first core layer321included in the first rigid area301, the second core layer322included in the second rigid area302, and the third core layer323included in the third rigid area303. The adhesive layers331and332may include the first adhesive layer331included in the first rigid area301and the second adhesive layer332included in the second rigid area302.

In an embodiment, the first rigid area301may substantially surround the second surface (e.g., the second surface112ofFIG.1) and the first side surface (e.g., the first side member113ofFIG.1) of the first housing110. The first rigid area301may remain in a constant predetermined shape, irrespective of disposition in either the flat state or the folded state.

In an embodiment, the first rigid area301may include the fabric layer310, the first core layer321at least partially surrounded by the fabric layer310, and the first adhesive layer331attached to the electronic device. The fabric layer310may form the outer surface of the first rigid area301. The fabric layer310, together with the first adhesive layer331, may form the inner surface of the first rigid area301. The first core layer321may be formed of a rigid material such that the first rigid area301maintains a constant shape. The first core layer321may be spaced apart from the third core layer323and the second core layer322by predetermined gaps. The first core layer321may be spaced apart from the third core layer323by a first gap d1.

In certain embodiments, the first core layer321may include at least one of polycarbonate, urethane, wood, or metal. In certain embodiments, the first adhesive layer331may be attached to a surface of the electronic device by providing a frictional force. In certain embodiments, the first adhesive layer331may include a suction pad that provides an adhesion force to the surface of the electronic device. In certain embodiments, the first adhesive layer331may include an adhesive material.

In an embodiment, the second rigid area302may substantially surround the fourth surface (e.g., the fourth surface122ofFIG.1) and the second side surface (e.g., the second side member123ofFIG.1) of the second housing120. The second rigid area302may remain in a constant predetermined shape in both the flat state and the folded state.

In an embodiment, the second rigid area302may include the fabric layer310, the second core layer322at least partially surrounded by the fabric layer310, and the second adhesive layer332attached to the electronic device. The fabric layer310may form the outer surface of the second rigid area302. The fabric layer310, together with the second adhesive layer332, may form the inner surface of the second rigid area302. The second core layer322may be formed of a rigid material such that the second rigid area302maintains the shape thereof. The second core layer322may be spaced apart from the third core layer323and the first core layer321by predetermined gaps. The second core layer322may be spaced apart from the third core layer323by a second gap d2. In certain embodiments, the second gap d2may be 2 mm or less.

In certain embodiments, the second core layer322may be formed of at least one of polycarbonate, urethane, wood, or metal. In certain embodiments, the second adhesive layer332may be attached to a surface of the electronic device by providing a frictional force. In certain embodiments, the second adhesive layer332may include a suction pad that provides an adhesion force to the surface of the electronic device. In certain embodiments, the second adhesive layer332may include an adhesive material.

In an embodiment, the third rigid area303may be formed between the first flexible area304and the second flexible area305. The third rigid area303may remain in a constant predetermined shape in both the flat state and the folded state. In the folded state, at least a portion of the third rigid area303may be disposed to face the outer surface166of the hinge housing165.

In an embodiment, the third rigid area303may include the fabric layer310and the third core layer323surrounded by the fabric layer310. The fabric layer310may form the outer surface and the inner surface of the third rigid area303. The third core layer323may be formed of a rigid material such that the third rigid area303maintains a constant shape. The third core layer323may be spaced apart from the first core layer321by the first gap d1and may be spaced apart from the second core layer322by the second gap d2different from the first gap d1. In certain embodiments, the first gap d1may be greater than the second gap d2.

In certain embodiments, the third rigid area303may include a first end portion303-1connected with the first flexible area304and a second end portion303-2connected with the second flexible area305. In the flat state, the first end portion303-1may be located on one side (e.g., the left side) with respect to the folding axis F, and the second end portion303-2may be located on an opposite side (e.g., the right side) with respect to the folding axis F. In the folded state, the first end portion303-1and the second end portion303-2may be located in the same direction (e.g., on the left side) with respect to the folding axis F. In certain embodiments, the third core layer323may be formed to be curved to have a curvature corresponding to a portion (e.g., the curved areas166-1and166-2) of the hinge housing (e.g., the hinge housing165ofFIG.5). In the folded state, the third rigid area303may be disposed such that the center of curvature substantially coincides with the center of curvature of the curved area of the hinge housing165.

In an embodiment, the first flexible area304may be formed between the first rigid area301and the third rigid area303. The first flexible area304may include the fabric layer310. For example, the first flexible area304may be formed of the fabric layer310. The first flexible area304may be bent depending on a change of state of the protective cover200to change the position of the third rigid area303relative to the first rigid area301. For example, when viewed in the flat state, the first flexible area304may be bent such that the third rigid area303further protrudes beyond the first rigid area301or the second rigid area302in the direction toward the rear surface of the protective cover200. For example, when viewed in the folded state, the first flexible area304may be bent such that a portion of the third rigid area303faces the outer surface of the hinge housing165.

In certain embodiments, when the rear surface of the protective cover200is viewed from above, the first flexible area304may have a different area from the second flexible area305. For example, the first flexible area304may have a larger area than the second flexible area305. In certain embodiments, the first flexible area304may be bent at least once in the flat state in which the electronic device is mounted.

In an embodiment, the second flexible area305may be formed between the second rigid area302and the third rigid area303. The second flexible area305may include the fabric layer310. For example, the second flexible area305may be formed of the fabric layer310so as to exclude other layers. The second flexible area305may be bent depending on a change of state of the protective cover200to change the position of the third rigid area303relative to the second rigid area302. For example, when viewed in the flat state, the second flexible area305may be bent such that the third rigid area303further protrudes beyond the first rigid area301or the second rigid area302in the direction toward the rear surface of the protective cover200. For example, when viewed in the folded state, the second flexible area305may be bent such that a portion of the third rigid area303faces the outer surface of the hinge housing165.

In certain embodiments, when the rear surface of the protective cover200is viewed from above, the second flexible area305may have a different area from the first flexible area304. For example, the second flexible area305may have a smaller area than the first flexible area304. In certain embodiments, the second flexible area305may be bent at least once in the flat state in which the electronic device is mounted.

In certain embodiments, in the flat state in which the electronic device is mounted, the first flexible area304may be located in the space between the first rigid area301and the third rigid area303. In the flat state in which the electronic device is mounted, the first flexible area304may be located in the space between the first core layer321and the second core layer322.

FIGS.7A,7B and7Care a view illustrating core layers depending on states of the protective cover according to an embodiment.FIGS.7A,7B and7Care a side view in which the fabric layer310is omitted from the protective cover illustrated inFIGS.5A and5B.

In an embodiment, the core layers321,322, and323may include the first core layer321, the second core layer322, and the third core layer323formed between the first core layer321and the second core layer322.

In an embodiment, the first core layer321may surround at least a portion of the first housing110. For example, the first core layer321may surround the second surface112and at least a portion of the first side member113of the first housing110. The first core layer321may have a decreasing width toward the folding axis F. The first core layer321may extend towards the folding axis F than the second core layer322. The first core layer321may maintain a constant a predetermined shape irrespective of a state of the protective cover200.

In an embodiment, the second core layer322may surround at least a portion of the second housing120. For example, the second core layer322may surround the fourth surface122and at least a portion of the second side member123of the second housing120. The second core layer322may have a decreasing width toward the folding axis F. The second core layer322may also extend towards the folding axis F, but to a degree less than the first core layer321. That is, the second core layer322may omit coverage of a portion of the fourth surface122of the second housing120. The second core layer322may maintain a constant predetermined shape irrespective of a state of the protective cover200.

In an embodiment, the third core layer323may be spaced apart from the first core layer321and the second core layer322by predetermined gaps. The third core layer323may be spaced apart from the first core layer321by the first gap d1and may be spaced apart from the second core layer322by the second gap d2greater than the first gap d1. In certain embodiments, the third core layer323may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the hinge housing165.

In an embodiment, the protective cover200may be configured such that the first core layer321and the second core layer322are folded relative to one another via the folding axis F disposed therebetween. The protective cover200may include a flat state, a folded state, and a fully folded state.

Referring toFIG.7A, the flat state may include a state in which the second surface112of the first housing110and the fourth surface122of the second housing120face substantially a same direction. Alternatively, the flat state may include a state in which a first edge P1of the first housing110and a second edge P2of the second housing120are disposed at a maximum distance from one another.

Referring toFIG.7A, the third core layer323may be spaced apart from the first housing110and the second housing120. The third core layer323may be connected with the first core layer321and the second core layer322through the fabric layer310. The third edge P3of the third core layer323may be disposed on one side (e.g., the left side) with respect to the folding axis F, and a fourth edge P4of the third core layer323may be located on an opposite side (e.g., the right side) with respect to the folding axis F. The third edge P3of the third core layer323may be located in a higher position in the direction toward the rear surface of the electronic device than the first core layer321and the second core layer322. A portion of the first core layer321may be disposed between the third edge P3of the third core layer323and the first housing110.

Referring toFIG.7B, the folded state may include a state in which the second surface112of the first housing110and the fourth surface122of the second housing120form a predetermined angle. The folded state may include a state in which the hinge housing165is exposed to the space defined between the first housing110and the second housing120.

Referring toFIG.7B, the gap between the third core layer323and the first core layer321may be decreased as the protective cover200is folded. The third core layer323may face the outer surface of the hinge housing165exposed between the first housing110and the second housing120. As the protective cover200is folded, the third edge P3of the third core layer323, when viewed with respect to the folding axis F, may move toward the area where the second housing120is located.

To distinguish the state illustrated inFIG.7Cfrom the state illustrated inFIG.7B, the state illustrated inFIG.7Cmay be defined as a fully folded state. The fully folded state may include a state in which the second surface112of the first housing110and the fourth surface122of the second housing120face away from each other. The fully folded state may include a state in which the first edge P1of the first housing110and the second edge P2of the second housing120form a minimum distance therebetween. In the fully folded state, the hinge housing165may be exposed to the space between the first housing110and the second housing120with a maximum area.

Referring toFIG.7C, the third core layer323may be spaced a predetermined gap apart from, or brought into close contact with, the outer surface166of the hinge housing165. The gap between the third core layer323and the hinge housing165may be smaller than that in the flat state or the folded state. The third core layer323may be disposed to have the same center of curvature as the curved area of the hinge housing165. The third edge P3of the third core layer323, when viewed with respect to the folding axis F, may be located in the area where the second housing120is located. The third edge P3and the fourth edge P4of the third core layer323may be located in the same direction with respect to the folding axis F.

FIGS.8A and8Bare a view illustrating a table mode of the protective cover according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIGS.8A and8B, the protective cover200may include a “table” mode. In the table mode, the protective cover200may be configured such that the first rear surface area211of the first portion210and the second rear surface area221of the second portion220form a specified angle therebetween. One of the first portion210and the second portion220may be disposed on a seat surface (i.e., the ground), and the other may be disposed at a specified angle with respect to the ground. In this case, the portion of the protective cover200disposed at the specified angle with respect to the ground may be accommodated in the space between the connecting portion230and the electronic device. For example, referring to the drawing, the first portion210may be disposed on the ground, and at least a portion of the second portion220may be accommodated in the space between the connecting portion230and the electronic device.

In certain embodiments, one of the first rigid area301and the second rigid area302of the protective cover200may be disposed on the ground, and the other may be disposed at a specified angle with respect to the ground. The area of the protective cover200disposed on the ground may be an area disposed closer to the third rigid area303.

For example, referring to the drawing, the first rigid area301may be disposed parallel to the ground because the first rigid area301is formed closer to the third rigid area303than the second rigid area302. The second rigid area302may be disposed to form a predetermined angle with the first rigid area301. A portion of the second flexible area305may be accommodated between the second rigid area302and the third rigid area303.

In certain embodiments, the third rigid area303may maintain the second rigid area302such that the second rigid area302connected to the third rigid area303by the second flexible area305is disposed at a specified angle with respect to the ground.

FIGS.9A,9B and9Care a view illustrating a protective cover according to certain embodiments.FIG.9Ais a perspective view of the protective cover according to an embodiment.FIG.9Bis a side view of the protective cover in a flat state.FIG.9Cis a side view of the protective cover in a folded state.

In an embodiment, the protective cover200may include a first portion210coupled to at least a portion of the first housing110of the electronic device, a second portion220coupled to at least a portion of the second housing120of the electronic device, and a connecting portion230formed between the first portion210and the second portion220.

In an embodiment, the first portion210may include a first rear surface area211coupled to at least a portion of the second surface112of the first housing110and a first side surface area212coupled to at least a portion of the first side member113of the first housing110. The first rear surface area211of the first housing110may be formed to be substantially flat. The first side surface area212may curvedly extend from the first rear surface area211. The first portion210may be coupled with the first housing110such that the first rear surface area211and the first side surface area212are brought into close contact with the second surface112of the first housing110and the first side member113of the first housing110, respectively. In certain embodiments, the first rear surface area211and the first side surface area212are not limited to the shapes illustrated in the drawing and may be formed to be flat and/or curved to correspond to the shape of the first housing110of the electronic device.

In an embodiment, the second portion220may include a second rear surface area221coupled to at least a portion of the fourth surface122of the second housing120and a second side surface area222coupled to at least a portion of the second side surface123of the second housing120. The second rear surface area221may be formed to be substantially flat. The second side surface area222may curvedly extend from the second rear surface area221. The second portion220may be coupled with the second housing120such that the second rear surface area221and the second side surface area222are brought into close contact with the fourth surface122of the second housing120and the second side surface123of the second housing120. In certain embodiments, the second rear surface area221and the second side surface area222are not limited to the shapes illustrated in the drawing and may be formed to be flat and/or curved to correspond to the shape of the second housing120of the electronic device.

In an embodiment, the connecting portion230may include a third rear surface area231formed between the first rear surface area211and the second rear surface area221, and a third side surface area232formed between the first side surface area212and the second side surface area222. The connecting portion230may have a smaller width than the first portion210and the second portion220. For example, the connecting portion230may include a structure extending from the first portion210, such that the width is decreased from the first portion210toward the second portion220. The connecting portion230may also include a structure extending from the second portion220, such that the width is decreased from the second portion220toward the first portion210. For example, the third side surface area232may have a width W3smaller than the width W1of the first side surface area212and/or the width W2of the second side surface area222.

Referring toFIGS.9A and9B, the protective cover200may be configurable so as to be disposed in a flat state and a folded state, according to a state in which the electronic device (to which the protective cover200is attached) is disposed. The flat state may include a state in which the hinge housing165of the mounted electronic device is not exposed. The flat state may include a state in which the first rear surface area211and the second rear surface area221face the same direction. The folded state may include a state in which the hinge housing165of the mounted electronic device is exposed between the first housing110and the second housing120. The folded state may include a state in which the first rear surface area211and the second rear surface area221form a predetermined angle therebetween. For example, the folded state may include a fully folded state (e.g.,FIG.9C) in which the first rear surface area211and the second rear surface area221face away from each other.

In the flat state, as illustrated inFIG.9B, at least a portion of the connecting portion230may be spaced apart from the first housing110and the second housing120, and may not make physical contact with the first housing110and the second housing120. For example, the central area of the connecting portion230may be spaced apart from the first housing110and the second housing120, and the areas on the opposite sides of the central area may be brought into physical contact with the first housing110and the second housing120.

In the folded state illustrated inFIG.9C, the connecting portion230may face the hinge housing165of the electronic device. The outer surface166of the hinge housing165may include the first curved area166-1adjacent to the first housing110, the second curved area166-2adjacent to the second housing120, and the flat area166-3that is formed between the first curved area166-1and the second curved area166-2. In this case, the connecting portion230may be formed in a shape corresponding to the outer surface166of the hinge housing165. For example, the inner surface of the connecting portion230may be brought into close contact with, or spaced by a predetermined gap apart from, the outer surface166of the hinge housing165.

FIGS.10A,10B and10Care a sectional view of the protective cover according to certain embodiments.FIG.10Ais a view illustrating a flat state of the protective cover in which the electronic device is not mounted.FIG.10Bis a view illustrating a flat state of the protective cover in which the electronic device is mounted.FIG.10Cis a view illustrating a folded state of the protective cover in which the electronic device is mounted.

In an embodiment, the protective cover200may include a fabric layer310, core layers321,322, and323, and adhesive layers331and332. The fabric layer310may be integrally formed in rigid areas301,302, and303and flexible areas304and305. The core layers321,322, and323may include the first core layer321included in the first rigid area301, the second core layer322included in the second rigid area302, and the third core layer323included in the third rigid area303. The adhesive layers331and332may include the first adhesive layer331included in the first rigid area301and the second adhesive layer332included in the second rigid area302.

In an embodiment, the first rigid area301may substantially surround the second surface (e.g., the second surface112ofFIG.1) and the first side surface (e.g., the first side member113ofFIG.1) of the first housing110. The first rigid area301may retain a same predetermined shape in both the flat state and the folded state. The first rigid area301may include the fabric layer310, the first core layer321at least partially surrounded by the fabric layer310, and the first adhesive layer331attached to the electronic device. The fabric layer310may form the outer surface of the first rigid area301. The fabric layer310, together with the first adhesive layer331, may form the inner surface of the first rigid area301. The first core layer321may be formed of a rigid material such that the first rigid area301maintains a constant shape. The first core layer321may be spaced apart from the third core layer323and the second core layer322by predetermined gaps. The first core layer321may be spaced apart from the third core layer323by a first gap d1.

In an embodiment, the second rigid area302may substantially surround the fourth surface (e.g., the fourth surface122ofFIG.1) and the second side surface (e.g., the second side member123ofFIG.1) of the second housing120. The second rigid area302may remain in a constant predetermined shape in the flat state and the folded state. The second rigid area302may include the fabric layer310, the second core layer322at least partially surrounded by the fabric layer310, and the second adhesive layer332attached to the electronic device. The fabric layer310may form the outer surface of the second rigid area302. The fabric layer310, together with the second adhesive layer332, may form the inner surface of the second rigid area302. The second core layer322may be formed of a rigid material such that the second rigid area302maintains a constant shape. The second core layer322may be spaced apart from the third core layer323and the first core layer321by predetermined gaps. The second core layer322may be spaced apart from the third core layer323by a second gap d2.

In an embodiment, the third rigid area303may be formed between the first flexible area304and the second flexible area305. The third rigid area303may remain constant in a predetermined shape, in both the flat state and the folded state. In the folded state, at least a portion of the third rigid area303may be disposed so as to face the outer surface of the hinge housing (e.g., the hinge housing165ofFIG.9). The third rigid area303may include the fabric layer310and the third core layer323surrounded by the fabric layer310. The fabric layer310may form the outer surface and the inner surface of the third rigid area303. The third core layer323may be formed of a rigid material such that the third rigid area303maintains a constant shape. The third core layer323may be spaced apart from the first core layer321by the first gap d1and may be spaced apart from the second core layer322by the second gap d2equal to the first gap d1.

Unlike the third core layer illustrated inFIG.6, the third core layer323illustrated inFIG.10may have a third edge P3and a fourth edge P4located on the opposite sides with respect to the folding axis in the flat state and the folded state.

In certain embodiments, the third core layer323may be curved so as to correspond to a portion (e.g., the curved areas166-1and166-2ofFIG.9) of the hinge housing (e.g., the hinge housing165ofFIG.9) and may face a flat area (e.g.,166-3) of the hinge housing.

In an embodiment, the first flexible area304may be formed between the first rigid area301and the third rigid area303. The first flexible area304may include the fabric layer310, but may omit the core layer. For example, the first flexible area304may be formed of the fabric layer310without the core layer. The first flexible area304may be bent depending on a change of state of the protective cover200to change the position of the third rigid area303relative to the first rigid area301. For example, when viewed in the flat state, the first flexible area304may be bent such that the third rigid area303further protrudes beyond the first rigid area301or the second rigid area302in the direction toward the rear surface of the protective cover200. For example, in the folded state, the first flexible area304may be bent such that a portion of the third rigid area303faces the outer surface of the hinge housing with a predetermined gap therebetween or is brought into close contact with the outer surface of the hinge housing.

In certain embodiments, when the rear surface of the protective cover200is viewed from above, the first flexible area304and the second flexible area305may have substantially the same area. In certain embodiments, the first flexible area304may be bent at least once when the electronic device is disposed in the flat state (FIG.9B).

In an embodiment, the second flexible area305may be formed between the second rigid area302and the third rigid area303. The second flexible area305may include the fabric layer310, but may not include a core layer. For example, the second flexible area305may be formed of the fabric layer310. The second flexible area305may be bent depending on a change of state of the protective cover200to change the position of the third rigid area303relative to the second rigid area302. For example, when viewed in the flat state, the second flexible area305may be bent, such that the third rigid area303further protrudes beyond the first rigid area301or the second rigid area302in the direction toward the rear surface of the protective cover200(e.g., upward based on the drawing). For example, in the folded state, the second flexible area305may be bent such that a portion of the third rigid area303faces the outer surface of the hinge housing with a predetermined gap therebetween or is brought into close contact with the outer surface of the hinge housing.

In certain embodiments, when the rear surface of the protective cover200is viewed from above, the second flexible area305may have substantially the same area as the first flexible area304. In certain embodiments, the second flexible area305may be bent at least once in the flat state (FIG.9B) in which the electronic device is mounted.

In certain embodiments, unlike those illustrated inFIG.6, the first flexible area304and the second flexible area305may be bent two or more times, as compared with when the protective cover is disposed in the flat state while the electronic device is not mounted. In certain embodiments, unlike those illustrated inFIG.6, the first flexible area304and the second flexible area305may be bent to be symmetrical to each other with respect to the folding axis F.

In certain embodiments, in the flat state (FIG.9B) in which the electronic device is mounted, the first flexible area304may be disposed in the space between the first rigid area301and the third rigid area303. In the flat state (FIG.9B) in which the electronic device is mounted, the second flexible area305may be located in the space between the second rigid area302and the third rigid area303.

A protective cover for protecting an electronic device according to embodiments of the disclosure may include a first portion coupled to at least a portion of a first housing of the electronic device, a second portion coupled to at least a portion of a second housing of the electronic device, and a connecting portion that covers at least a portion of a hinge housing of the electronic device and that is formed between the first portion and the second portion, the hinge housing being connected with the first housing and the second housing such that the first housing and the second housing are folded with a folding axis therebetween. The connecting portion may include a core layer, at least a portion of which has a curvature corresponding to a curved area of the hinge housing.

In certain embodiments, the protective cover may include a fabric layer having the core layer disposed therein. The core layer may include a first core layer disposed inside the first portion, a second core layer disposed inside the second portion, and a third core layer disposed inside the connecting portion. The third core layer may be spaced apart from the first core layer by a first gap and may be spaced apart from the second core layer by a second gap.

In certain embodiments, the first gap may be smaller than the second gap.

In certain embodiments, the first gap may be substantially the same as the second gap.

In certain embodiments, the third core layer may extend in a direction of the folding axis.

In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the third core layer may be formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of the hinge housing.

In certain embodiments, the fabric layer forms at least a portion of a surface of the protective cover.

In certain embodiments, the first portion may include a first suction area that forms a surface of the protective cover and provides an adhesion force to at least a portion of the first housing, and the second portion may include a second suction area that forms a surface of the protective cover and provides an adhesion force to at least a portion of the second housing.

In certain embodiments, the core layer included in the connecting portion may have a smaller area than the curved area of the hinge housing.

In certain embodiments, the electronic device is deformable into a flat state in which the hinge housing is accommodated in the first housing and the second housing and a folded state in which at least a portion of the hinge housing forms an exterior of the electronic device. The protective cover is configured to be partially deformed in shape according to a state deformation of the electronic device, and a gap between the hinge housing and the third core layer is formed to be a third gap in the folded state and formed to be a forth gap greater than the third gap in the flat state.

In certain embodiments, the connecting portion may include a first edge to which the first portion is connected, a second edge to which the second portion is connected, and a central axis being a center between the first edge and the second edge. The connecting portion may be formed to have a decreasing width from the first edge and the second edge toward the central axis.

A protective cover for an electronic device according to embodiments of the disclosure may include a first rigid area attached to one portion of the electronic device, a second rigid area attached to another portion of the electronic device, a third rigid area formed between the first rigid area and the second rigid area, a first flexible area that connects the first rigid area and the third rigid area, and a second flexible area that connects the second rigid area and the third rigid area.

In certain embodiments, the first flexible area and the second flexible area may be configured such that the first rigid area and the second rigid area are folded with a folding axis therebetween. The protective cover may include a first edge parallel to the folding axis and a second edge that faces the first edge. The protective cover may include a flat state in which the first edge and the second edge have a maximum distance therebetween and a folded state in which the first edge and the second edge have a minimum distance therebetween. The first flexible area may be configured such that at least a portion thereof is accommodated in a space between the first rigid area and the third rigid area in the flat state.

In certain embodiments, the third rigid area may include a first edge connected with the first flexible area and a second edge connected with the second flexible area. The third rigid area may be formed such that the first edge and the second edge are located on one side of the folding axis in the folded state, the first edge is located on the one side of the folding axis in the flat state, and the second edge is located on an opposite side of the folding axis in the flat state.

In certain embodiments, the protective cover may include a core layer and a fabric layer that surrounds at least a portion of the core layer. The core layer may include a first core layer included in the first rigid area, a second core layer included in the second rigid area, and a third core layer included in the third rigid area. The third core layer may be spaced apart from the first core layer by a first gap and may be spaced apart from the second core layer by a second gap.

In certain embodiments, the first gap may differ from the second gap.

In certain embodiments, the core layer may be formed of at least one of polycarbonate, urethane, wood, or metal.

In certain embodiments, the protective cover includes an adhesive layer attached to a surface of the electronic device, and the adhesive layer may include a first adhesive layer included in the first rigid area and a second adhesive layer included in the second rigid area.

In certain embodiments, the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer, together with the fabric layer, may form a portion of an inner surface of the protective cover.

In certain embodiments, the adhesive layer may include a suction pad that provides an adhesion force.

According to the situation, the expression “adapted to or configured to” used in this disclosure may be used interchangeably with, for example, the expression “suitable for”, “having the capacity to”, “adapted to”, “made to”, “capable of”, or “designed to” in hardware or software. The expression “a device configured to” may mean that the device is “capable of” operating together with another device or other components. For example, a “processor set to (or configured to) perform A, B, and C” may mean a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing corresponding operations or a generic-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU or an AP) that performs corresponding operations by executing one or more programs stored in a memory device (e.g., memory).

As used in connection with certain embodiments of the disclosure, the term “module” may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may interchangeably be used with other terms, for example, “logic,” “logic block,” “part,” or “circuitry”. A module may be a single integral component, or a minimum unit or part thereof, adapted to perform one or more functions. The “module” may be implemented mechanically or electronically and may include, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chip, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a programmable-logic device for performing some operations, which are known or will be developed.

At least a part of an apparatus (e.g., modules or functions thereof) or a method (e.g., operations) according to certain embodiments may be implemented by instructions stored in computer-readable storage media (e.g., memory) in the form of a program module. The instructions, when executed by a processor (e.g., a processor), may cause the processor to perform functions corresponding to the instructions. The computer-readable storage media may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic media (e.g., a magnetic tape), an optical media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, magneto-optical media (e.g., a floptical disk)), an embedded memory, and the like. The instructions may include a code made by a compiler or a code executable by an interpreter.