ELECTRONIC DEVICE

The disclosure relates to an electronic device. An electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure may comprise: a first housing, a second housing rotatably disposed with respect to the first housing, a hinge including a first hinge arm connected to the first housing and a second hinge arm connected to the second housing, a flexible display disposed on the first housing and the second housing and spaced apart from each of the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm, a first plate disposed between the first hinge arm and the flexible display, and a second plate disposed between the second hinge arm and the flexible display and spaced apart from the first plate. The first plate may comprise a first edge portion including a first inclined surface inclined with respect to a direction in which the first hinge arm and the flexible display are spaced apart from each other.

BACKGROUND

Field

The disclosure relates to an electronic device, e.g., an electronic device including a plate.

Description of Related Art

Advancing information communication and semiconductor technologies accelerate the spread and use of various electronic devices. In particular, recent electronic devices are being developed to carry out communication while carried on.

The term “electronic device” may refer, for example, to a device performing a particular function according to its equipped program, such as a home appliance, an electronic scheduler, a portable multimedia player, a mobile communication terminal, a tablet PC, a video/sound device, a desktop PC or laptop computer, a navigation for automobile, etc. For example, the electronic devices may output stored information as voices or images. As electronic devices are highly integrated, and high-speed, high-volume wireless communication becomes commonplace, an electronic device, such as a mobile communication terminal, is recently being equipped with various functions. For example, an electronic device comes with the integrated functionality, including an entertainment function, such as playing video games, a multimedia function, such as replaying music/videos, a communication and security function, such as for mobile banking, and a scheduling or e-wallet function. These electronic devices have been downsized to be conveniently carried by users.

SUMMARY

An electronic device according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may comprise: a first housing, a second housing rotatably coupled to the first housing, a hinge including a first hinge arm connected to the first housing and a second hinge arm connected to the second housing, a flexible display disposed on the first housing and the second housing and spaced apart from each of the first hinge arm and the second hinge arm, a first plate disposed between the first hinge arm and the flexible display, and a second plate disposed between the second hinge arm and the flexible display and spaced apart from the first plate. The first plate may comprise a first edge portion including a first inclined surface inclined with respect to a direction in which the first hinge arm and the flexible display are spaced apart from each other.

An electronic device according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may comprise: a first housing, a second housing rotatably coupled to the first housing, a flexible display seated on the first housing and the second housing and configured to be at least partially deformable, a hinge rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing, a first plate disposed between the flexible display and the hinge, and a second plate disposed between the flexible display and the hinge and spaced apart from the first plate. A folding space where the flexible display is deformed may be formed between the first plate and the second plate, and the first plate and the second plate may include edge portions inclined toward the folding space.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings may provide an understanding of various example implementations of the disclosure, including claims and their equivalents. The various example embodiments disclosed in the following description entail various specific details to aid understanding. Accordingly, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made to the various implementations described in the disclosure without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Further, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and brevity.

The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meaning, but may be used to clearly and consistently describe an embodiment of the disclosure. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various implementations of the disclosure is provided simply for the purpose of description, not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure defined as the scope of the claims and equivalent thereto.

The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, as an example, “a component surface” may be interpreted as including one or more of the surfaces of a component.

FIG.1is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device101in a network environment100according to various embodiments.

The processor120may include various processing circuitry and/or multiple processors. For example, as used herein, including the claims, the term “processor” may include various processing circuitry, including at least one processor, wherein one or more of at least one processor, individually and/or collectively in a distributed manner, may be configured to perform various functions described herein. As used herein, when “a processor”, “at least one processor”, and “one or more processors” are described as being configured to perform numerous functions, these terms cover situations, for example and without limitation, in which one processor performs some of recited functions and another processor(s) performs other of recited functions, and also situations in which a single processor may perform all recited functions. Additionally, the at least one processor may include a combination of processors performing various of the recited/disclosed functions, e.g., in a distributed manner. At least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions. The processor120may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program140) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device101coupled with the processor120, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to an embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor120may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module176or the communication module190) in volatile memory132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory132, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory134. According to an embodiment, the processor120may include a main processor121(e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), or an auxiliary processor123(e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), 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 processor121. For example, when the electronic device101includes the main processor121and the auxiliary processor123, the auxiliary processor123may be configured to use lower power than the main processor121or to be specified for a designated function. The auxiliary processor123may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor121.

FIG.2is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments.FIG.3is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a folded state according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIGS.2and3, an electronic device101may include a housing201, a hinge cover240covering a foldable portion of the housing201, and a display230disposed in a space formed by the housing201. According to an embodiment, the surface where the screen output from the display230is visible is defined as a front surface (e.g., the first front surface210aand the second front surface220a) of the electronic device101. A surface opposite to the front surface is defined as a rear surface (e.g., the first rear surface210band the second rear surface220b) of the electronic device101. Further, a surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the rear surface is defined as a side surface (e.g., the first side surface210cand the second side surface220c) of the electronic device101. The side surface of the electronic device101may be a side surface of at least one of the first housing210or the second housing220. The electronic device101ofFIGS.2and3may be referred to as a foldable electronic device, a portable electronic device, or a portable foldable electronic device. According to an embodiment, the housing201may be referred to as a foldable housing. The display230may be referred to as a “flexible display.”

According to an embodiment, the housing201may include a first housing210, a second housing220rotatable with respect to the first housing210, a first rear cover280, and a second rear cover290. The housing201of the electronic device101are not limited to the shape and coupling shown inFIGS.2and3but may rather be implemented in other shapes or via a combination and/or coupling of other components. For example, in an embodiment, the first housing210and the first rear cover280may be integrally formed with each other, and the second housing220and the second rear cover290may be integrally formed with each other.

According to an embodiment, the first housing210may be connected to a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge assembly202ofFIG.4) and may include a first front surface210afacing in a first direction and a first rear surface210bfacing in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second housing220may be connected to the hinge assembly202and may include a second front surface220afacing in a third direction and a second rear surface220bfacing in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, and may rotate from the first housing210about the hinge assembly202. Thus, the electronic device101may turn into a folded state or unfolded state. In the folded state of the electronic device101, the first front surface210amay face the second front surface220aand, in the unfolded state, the third direction may be identical to the first direction. Hereinafter, unless otherwise mentioned, directions are described based on the unfolded state of the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, the first housing210and the second housing220are disposed on both sides of the folding axis A and be overall symmetrical in shape with respect to the folding axis A. As set forth below, the first housing210and the second housing220may have different angles or distances formed therebetween depending on whether the electronic device101is in the unfolded, folded, or intermediate state. According to an embodiment, the second housing220further includes the sensor area224where sensors (e.g., front camera) are disposed but, in the remaining area, the second housing220may be symmetrical in shape with the first housing210.

According to an embodiment, there may be provided a plurality of (e.g., two) folding axes A parallel to each other. In the disclosure, the folding axis A is provided along the length direction (Y-axis direction) of the electronic device101, but the direction of the folding axis A is not limited thereto. For example (not shown), the electronic device101may include the folding axis A extending along the width direction (e.g., X-axis direction).

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a structure to which a digital pen may be attached. For example, the electronic device101may include a magnetic substance configured to attach the digital pen to a side surface of the first housing210or a side surface of the second housing220. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a structure into which a digital pen may be inserted. For example, a hole (not shown) into which the digital pen may be inserted may be formed in a side surface of the first housing210or a side surface of the second housing220of the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, the first housing210and the second housing220may at least partially be formed of a metal or non-metallic material with a rigidity selected to support the display230. At least a portion formed of metal may provide a ground plane of the electronic device101and may be electrically connected with a ground line formed on a printed circuit board (e.g., the circuit board260ofFIG.4).

According to an embodiments, the sensor area224may be formed adjacent to an edge or corner of the second housing220and to have a predetermined area. However, the placement, shape, or size of the sensor area224is not limited to those illustrated. According to an embodiment, the sensor area224may be provided in a different corner of the second housing220or in any area between the top corner and the bottom corner or in the first housing210. In an embodiment, components for performing various functions, embedded in the electronic device101, may be exposed through the sensor area224or one or more openings in the sensor area224to the front surface of the electronic device101. In various embodiments, the components may include various kinds of sensors. The sensor may include, e.g., at least one of a front camera, a receiver, or a proximity sensor.

According to an embodiment, the first rear cover280may be disposed on one side of the folding axis A on the rear surface of the electronic device101and have, e.g., a substantially rectangular periphery which may be surrounded by the first housing210. Similarly, the second rear cover290may be disposed on the opposite side of the folding axis A on the rear surface of the electronic device101and its periphery may be surrounded by the second housing220.

According to an embodiment, the first rear cover280and the second rear cover290may be substantially symmetrical in shape with respect to the folding axis (axis A). However, the first rear cover280and the second rear cover290are not necessarily symmetrical in shape. According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include the first rear cover280and the second rear cover290in various shapes.

According to an embodiment, the first rear cover280, the second rear cover290, the first housing210, and the second housing220may form a space where various components (e.g., a printed circuit board or battery) of the electronic device101may be disposed. According to an embodiment, one or more components may be arranged or visually exposed on/through the rear surface of the electronic device101. For example, at least a portion of a sub display (e.g., the sub display234ofFIG.4) may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the first rear cover280. According to an embodiment, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through at least a portion of the first rear cover290. According to various embodiments, the sensor may include a proximity sensor and/or a camera module206(e.g., rear camera).

According to an embodiment, a front camera exposed to the front surface of the electronic device101through one or more openings provided in the sensor area224or the camera module206exposed through at least a portion of the second rear cover290may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. In an embodiment, two or more lenses (an infrared (IR) camera, a wide-angle lens, and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface of the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, the hinge cover240may be disposed between the first housing210and the second housing220to hide the internal components (e.g., the hinge assembly202ofFIG.4). According to an embodiment, the hinge cover240may be hidden by a portion of the first housing210and second housing220or be exposed to the outside depending on the state (e.g., the unfolded state (e.g., flat state) or folded state) of the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, as shown inFIG.2, in the unfolded state of the electronic device101, the hinge cover240may be hidden, and thus not exposed, by the first housing210and the second housing220. As another example, as shown inFIG.3, in the folded state (e.g., a fully folded state) of the electronic device101, the hinge cover240may be exposed to the outside between the first housing210and the second housing220. As another example, in an intermediate state in which the first housing210and the second housing220are folded with a certain angle, the hinge cover240may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing210and the second housing220. However, in this case, the exposed area may be smaller than that in the completely folded state. In an embodiment, the hinge cover240may include a curved surface.

According to an embodiment, the display230may be disposed in a space formed by the housing201. For example, the display230may be seated on a recess formed by the housing201and may occupy most of the front surface of the electronic device101. Thus, the front surface of the electronic device101may include the display230and a partial area of the first housing210and a partial area of the second housing220, which are adjacent to the display230. The rear surface of the electronic device101may include a first rear cover280, a partial area of the first housing210adjacent to the first rear cover280, a second rear cover290, and a partial area of the second housing220adjacent to the second rear cover290.

According to an embodiment, the display230may include a plurality of displays spaced apart from each other. For example, the display230may include a first display area231disposed on the first housing210and a second display area232disposed on the second housing220. According to an embodiment, the first display area231and the second display area232may rotate about the folding axis A.

According to an embodiment, the display230may refer, for example, to a display at least a portion of which may be transformed into a flat or curved surface. For example, the display230may be a foldable or flexible display. According to an embodiment, the display230may include a folding area233, a first display area231disposed on one side of the folding area233(e.g., the left side of the folding area233ofFIG.2), and a second display area232disposed on the opposite side of the folding area233(e.g., the right side of the folding area203ofFIG.2). However, the segmentation of the display230is merely an example, and the display230may be divided into a plurality of (e.g., four or more, or two) areas depending on the structure or function of the display200. For example, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG.2, the display230may be divided into the areas by the folding area233or folding axis (axis A) extending in parallel with the Y axis but, according to an embodiment, the display230may be divided into the areas with respect to another folding area (e.g., a folding area parallel with the X axis) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel with the X axis). According to an embodiment, the display230may be coupled with or disposed adjacent to a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the strength (pressure) of touches, and/or a digitizer (not shown) for detecting a magnetic field-type stylus pen.

According to an embodiment, the first display area231and the second display area232may be overall symmetrical in shape with respect to the folding area233. According to an embodiment (not shown), the second display area232may include a notch depending on the presence of the sensor area224, but the rest may be symmetrical in shape with the first display area231. For example, the first display area231and the second display area232may include symmetrical portions and asymmetrical portions.

Described below are the operation of the first housing210and the second housing220and each area of the display230depending on the state (e.g., the unfolded state (or flat state) and folded state) of the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device101is in the unfolded state (flat state) (e.g.,FIG.2), the first housing210and the second housing220may be disposed to face in the same direction while being angled substantially at 180 degrees therebetween. The surface of the first display area231and the surface of the second display area232of the display230may be angled at 180 degrees therebetween while facing in the same direction (e.g., forward of the front surface of the electronic device). The folding area233may form the same plane with the first display area231and the second display area232.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device101is in the folded state (e.g.,FIG.3), the first housing210and the second housing220may be disposed to face each other. The surface of the first display area231and the surface of the second display area232of the display230may be angled at a small angle (e.g., an angle between 0 degrees and 10 degrees) therefrom while facing each other. At least a portion of the folding area233may be formed as a curve having a predetermined curvature.

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device101is in the intermediate state (not shown), the first housing210and the second housing220may be disposed at a certain angle therebetween. The surface of the first display area231of the display230and the surface of the second display area232may form an angle which is larger than the angle in the folded state and smaller than the angle in the unfolded state. The folding area233may at least partially have a curved surface with a predetermined curvature and, in this case, the curvature may be smaller than that when it is in the folded state.

FIG.4is an exploded perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.4, an electronic device101may include a housing201, a display230, a hinge assembly202, a battery250, and a board unit260. The housing201may include a first housing210, a second housing220, a first rear cover280, and a second rear cover290. The configuration of the first housing210, the second housing220, the hinge cover240, the first rear cover280, and the second rear cover290ofFIG.4may be identical in whole or part to the configuration of the first housing210, the second housing220, the hinge cover240, the first rear cover280, and the second rear cover290ofFIG.2and/orFIG.3.

According to an embodiment, the first housing210and the second housing220may be assembled together to be coupled to two opposite sides of the hinge assembly202. According to an embodiment, the first housing210may include a first supporting area212that may support the components (e.g., the first circuit board262and/or the first battery252) of the electronic device101and a first sidewall211surrounding at least a portion of the first supporting area212. The first sidewall211may include a first side surface (e.g., the first side surface210cofFIG.2) of the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the second housing220may include a second supporting area222that may support the components (e.g., the second circuit board264and/or the second battery254) of the electronic device101and a second sidewall221surrounding at least a portion of the second supporting area222. The second sidewall221may include a second side surface (e.g., the second side surface220cofFIG.2) of the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, the display230(e.g., first display) may include a first display area231, a second display area232, a folding area233, and a sub display234(e.g., second display, refer toFIG.3). The configuration of the first display area231, the second display area232, and the folding area233ofFIG.3may be identical in whole or part to the configuration of the first display area231, the second display area232, and the folding area233ofFIG.1and/orFIG.2.

According to an embodiment, the sub display234may display screen in a different direction from the display areas231and232. For example, the sub display234may output screen in a direction opposite to the first display area231. According to an embodiment, the sub display234may be disposed on the first rear cover280.

According to an embodiment, the battery250may include a first battery252disposed in the first housing210and a second battery254disposed in the second housing220. According to an embodiment, the first battery252may be connected with the first circuit board262, and the second battery254may be connected to the second circuit board264. According to an embodiment, the battery250may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the battery250may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

According to an embodiment, the board unit260may include a first circuit board262disposed in the first housing210and a second circuit board264disposed in the second housing220. According to an embodiment, the first circuit board262and the second circuit board264may be electrically connected by at least one flexible circuit board266. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible circuit board266may be disposed across the hinge assembly202. According to an embodiment, the first circuit board262and the second circuit board264may be disposed in a space formed by the first housing210, the second housing220, the first rear cover280, and the second rear cover290. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device101may be disposed on the first circuit board262and the second circuit board264.

According to an embodiment, the hinge assembly202may include a hinge2021. The hinge2021may rotatably couple the first housing210and the second housing220. A plurality of hinges2021may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the length direction of the hinge assembly202. The hinge assembly202may include a supporting plate2022. The supporting plate2022may support at least a portion of the display230. A plurality of supporting plates2022may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the length direction of the hinge assembly202.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include speakers208aand208b. According to an embodiment, the speakers208aand208bmay convert the electric signal into sound. According to an embodiment, the speakers208and208bmay be disposed in a space formed by the first housing210, the second housing220, the first rear cover280, and the second rear cover290. According to an embodiment, the speakers208aand208bmay include an upper speaker208apositioned in an upper portion (+Y direction) of the electronic device101and a lower speaker208bpositioned in a lower portion (−Y direction) of the electronic device101. In the disclosure, the speakers208aand208bare illustrated as positioned in one housing (e.g., the first housing210ofFIG.40, but this is an optional structure. For example, the speakers208aand208bmay be positioned in at least one of the first housing210or the second housing220. The configuration of the speakers208aand208bofFIG.4may be identical in whole or part to the configuration of the sound output module155ofFIG.1.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a rear member270(or rear case). According to an embodiment, the rear member270may be disposed in the housing201(e.g., the second housing220). According to an embodiment, the rear member270may receive at least one antenna275.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include an antenna275. The antennas275aand275bmay include, e.g., an ultra-wide band (UWB) antenna275a, a near-field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and/or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna275b. The antenna275may perform short-range communication with, e.g., an external device or may wirelessly transmit or receive power necessary for charging.

According to an embodiment, an antenna structure may be formed by a portion of the housing201or a combination thereof. For example, the antenna275may include a communication antenna275cat least a portion of which is exposed to the outside and which forms at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device101. The communication antenna275cmay be used for communication (e.g., Wi-Fi) with an external electronic device. The communication antenna275cmay be connected to the upper portion271aor the lower portion271bof the rear member270.

In the following description, a configuration in which a pair of housings (which may be referred to as a ‘housing’) are coupled to be rotatable by a hinge assembly (which may be referred to as a ‘hinge structure’) is described as an example. However, it should be noted that the electronic device according to various embodiments of the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, according to various embodiments, the electronic device may include three or more housings. In the embodiment(s) disclosed below, a “pair of housings” may refer, for example, to two rotatably-coupled housings among three or more housings.

FIG.5is an exploded perspective view illustrating various components (e.g., the display310, the hinge320, the hinge cover330, the plate340, and the damping member350) of an electronic device101according to various embodiments. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIG.5may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.1,2,3and4. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIG.5may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.6A to12.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a display310. The display310may be received in a housing (e.g., the housing201ofFIGS.2to4). The display310may display a screen outside the housing201. The display310may be the same as the display230illustrated inFIGS.2to4.

According to an embodiment, the display310may include a panel311. The panel311may display a screen outside. The display310may include a digitizer312. The digitizer312may be coupled to the panel311. The digitizer312may detect a signal (e.g., a pressing signal of a pen) applied from the outside of the display310.

According to an embodiment, the digitizer312may include a first digitizer3121and a second digitizer3122. The first digitizer3121may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first housing (e.g., the first housing210ofFIG.4). The second digitizer3122may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second housing (e.g., the second housing220ofFIG.4). The first digitizer3121and the second digitizer3122may be spaced apart from each other.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a hinge320. A plurality of hinges320may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. The hinge320may be coupled to a housing (e.g., the housing201ofFIGS.2to4). The hinge320may rotatably connect the first housing (e.g., the first housing210ofFIG.4) and the second housing (e.g., the second housing220ofFIG.4). The first housing210and the second housing220may be rotated about the hinge320. For example, the first housing210may be rotated about the hinge320with respect to the second housing220. The hinge320may be a part of the hinge assembly202illustrated inFIG.4. The hinge assembly202may include the hinge320.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a hinge cover330. At least a portion of the hinge cover330may be disposed between the first housing (e.g., the first housing210ofFIG.4) and the second housing (e.g., the second housing220ofFIG.4). At least a portion of the hinge320may be received in the hinge cover330. The hinge cover330may be the same as the hinge cover240illustrated inFIGS.2to4.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a plate340. The plate340may be disposed between the display310and the hinge320. The plate340may support the display310. The plate340may be seated on the hinge320. The plate340may be referred to as a “supporting plate”. The plate340may be referred to as a “supporting member”. The plate340may be referred to as a “supporting body”. The plate340may be referred to as a “wing plate”. The plate340may be referred to as a “body”. The plate340may be referred to as a “guide member”.

According to an embodiment, the plate340may include a first plate341and a second plate342. The first plate341may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first housing (e.g., the first housing210ofFIG.4). The second plate342may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second housing (e.g., the second housing220ofFIG.4). The first plate341and the second plate342may be spaced apart from each other. The first plate341may be disposed between the panel311and the hinge320. The second plate342may be disposed between the panel311and the hinge320. The first plate341may be referred to as any one of “a first supporting plate, a first supporting member, a first supporting body, a first wing plate, a first body, or a first guide member”. The second plate342may be referred to as any one of “a second supporting plate, a second supporting member, a second supporting body, a second wing plate, a second body, or a second guide member”.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include digitizers3121and3122. The digitizers3121and3122may include a first digitizer3121and a second digitizer3122. The first plate341may be disposed between the first digitizer3121and the hinge320. The second plate342may be disposed between the second digitizer3122and the hinge320.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a damping member350. The damping member350may be disposed between the display310and the plate340. The damping member350may be disposed between the digitizer312and the plate340.

According to an embodiment, the damping member350may include a first damping member351disposed at a position corresponding to the first housing (e.g., the first housing210ofFIG.4). The damping member350may include a second damping member352disposed at a position corresponding to the second housing (e.g., the second housing220ofFIG.4). The first damping member351may be disposed between the panel311and the first plate341. The second damping member352may be disposed between the panel311and the second plate342. The first damping member351and the second damping member352may be spaced apart from each other.

According to an embodiment, the plate340may include portion M1, M2, and M3corresponding to the hinge320. The portion M1, M2, and M3of the plate340and the hinge320may face each other in one direction (e.g., the +Z direction ofFIG.4).

FIG.6Ais a diagram illustrating a state in which plates341and342are disposed in a housing390according to various embodiments.FIG.6Bis a diagram illustrating a state in which the plates341and342are removed in the state ofFIG.6Aaccording to various embodiments.FIG.6Cis a diagram illustrating a rear view of the digitizer312in a state in which the plates341and342are coupled according to various embodiments.FIG.6Dis a diagram illustrating a view of a relationship between the hinge320and the plate330according to various embodiments.FIG.6Aillustrates an electronic device101in a state in which a display (e.g., the displays231and232ofFIG.2) is removed, viewed in one direction (e.g., the −Z direction ofFIG.4). (a) ofFIG.6Dis a top view of the plate340in a state in which the hinge320is coupled. (b) ofFIG.6Dis a top view of the plate340. (c) ofFIG.6Dis a rear view of the plate340. (d) ofFIG.6Dis an enlarged view of specific areas M1, M2, and M3of (c) ofFIG.6D. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIGS.6A,6B,6C and6D(which may be referred to asFIGS.6A to6D) may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.1to5. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIGS.6A to6Dmay be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.7A to12.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a housing390. The housing390may be the same as the housing201illustrated inFIGS.2,3and4. The display (e.g., the display310ofFIG.5) may be received in the housing390.

According to an embodiment, the housing390may include a first housing391and a second housing392. The first housing391and the second housing392may be rotatably coupled to each other. The hinge320may rotatably connect the first housing391and the second housing392. At least a portion of the hinge320may be disposed between the first housing391and the second housing392. At least a portion of the hinge cover330may be disposed between the first housing391and the second housing392. The first housing391may be the same as the first housing210illustrated inFIG.4. The second housing392may be the same as the second housing220illustrated inFIG.4.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a flexible printed circuit board366. The flexible circuit board366may be the same as the flexible circuit board266described with reference toFIGS.1to4. The flexible circuit board366may connect a first circuit board (e.g., the first circuit board262ofFIG.4) disposed in the first housing391and a second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board264ofFIG.4) disposed in the second housing392. At least a portion of the flexible circuit board366may be disposed inside a hinge housing (e.g., the hinge housing330ofFIG.5). The flexible printed circuit board366may be disposed between a plurality of hinges320.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may be divided into a first area E1, E2, and E3in which the hinge320is disposed and a second area F in which the flexible printed circuit board366is disposed. The first area E1, E2, and E3and the second area F may be arranged along a length direction (e.g., +Y direction) of the plate340. The first area E1, E2, and E3may overlap the first portion M1, M2, and M3of the plate340. The second area F may overlap the second portion N1and N2of the plate340.

According to an embodiment, a first digitizer (e.g., the first digitizer3121ofFIG.5) may be disposed in the first housing391. The second digitizer (e.g., the second digitizer3122ofFIG.5) may be disposed in the second housing392. The first plate341may be disposed in the first housing391. The second plate342may be disposed in the second housing392. The first damping member (e.g., the first damping member351ofFIG.5) may be disposed in the first housing391. The second damping member (e.g., the second damping member352ofFIG.5) may be disposed in the second housing392.

According to an embodiment, a folding axis FX may be formed between the first housing391and the second housing392. The first housing391may be rotated about the folding axis FX with respect to the second housing392. The second housing392may be rotated about the folding axis FX with respect to the first housing391. The folding axis FX may extend in the length direction (e.g., +Y or −Y direction) of the hinge cover330. The folding axis FX may be formed in parallel with the rotation axis of the hinge320. The folding axis FX may be formed between the first plate341and the second plate342. The folding axis FX may be formed between a first digitizer (e.g., the first digitizer3121ofFIG.5) and a second digitizer (e.g., the second digitizer3122ofFIG.5). The folding axis FX may be formed between a first damping member (e.g., the first damping member351ofFIG.5) and a second damping member (e.g., the second damping member352ofFIG.5).

According to an embodiment, at least a portion of each of the hinge320and the hinge cover330may be disposed between the first housing391and the second housing392. A plurality of hinges320may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the length direction (e.g., +Y or −Y direction) of the hinge cover330. A plurality of hinges320may be spaced apart from each other along the folding axis FX. A plurality of hinges320may be arranged in an extending direction of the folding axis FX.

According to an embodiment, the hinge320may include a hinge body321. The hinge body321may be disposed between the first housing391and the second housing392. The hinge body321may be received in the hinge cover330. The folding axis FX may extend through the hinge body321.

According to an embodiment, the hinge320may include a first hinge arm322. The first hinge arm322may be rotatably coupled to the hinge body321. The first hinge arm322may be coupled to the first housing391. The first hinge arm322may be rotated together with the first housing391about the folding axis FX. The first plate341may be seated on the first hinge arm322. The first plate341may be disposed to correspond to the first hinge arm322. The first hinge arm322may face the first plate341in one direction (e.g., the +Z direction).

According to an embodiment, the hinge320may include a second hinge arm323. The second hinge arm323may be rotatably coupled to the hinge body321. The second hinge arm323may be coupled to the second housing392. The second hinge arm323may be rotated together with the second housing392about the folding axis FX. The second plate342may be seated on the second hinge arm323. The second plate342may be disposed to correspond to the second hinge arm323. The second hinge arm323may face the second plate342in one direction (e.g., the +Z direction).

According to an embodiment, the plate340may be disposed between the digitizer312and the hinge arms322and323. The digitizer312may be seated on the plate340and may be coupled to the plate340. The first plate341may be disposed between the first digitizer3121and the first hinge arm322. The second plate342may be disposed between the second digitizer3122and the second hinge arm323.

According to an embodiment, the first plate341and the second plate342may be spaced apart from each other. The folding axis FX may pass between the first plate341and the second plate342.

According to an embodiment, the plate340may overlap the hinge320in one direction (e.g., the +Z direction). The plurality of hinges320may be spaced apart from each other in the length direction (e.g., +Y or −Y direction) of the plate340. The first plate341may overlap the first hinge arm322in the first direction (e.g., the +Z direction), and the second plate342may overlap the second hinge arm323in the first direction (e.g., the +Z direction). The plate340may include an overlapping portion S overlapping the hinge320. The overlapping portion S may be a portion of the plate340facing the hinge320. A plurality of overlapping portions S may be formed to correspond to the plurality of hinges320, respectively. For example, a plurality of hinges320may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the length direction (e.g., +Y or −Y direction) of the plate340, and the overlapping portion S may be divided into a plurality of portion M1, M2, and M3spaced apart from each other in the length direction (e.g., +Y or −Y direction) of the plate340. Three hinges320may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the length direction of the plate340, but the number of hinges320is not limited thereto.

According to an embodiment, the plate340may include first portions M1, M2, and M3overlapping the hinge320. The first portions M1, M2, and M3may face the hinge320in one direction (e.g., −Z direction). The plate340may include second portions N1and N2that do not overlap the hinge320. The second portions N1and N2may be positioned to be displaced from the hinge320in one direction (e.g., the −Z direction). The flexible circuit board366may be positioned to overlap the second portions N1and N2in one direction (e.g., the −Z direction).

According to an embodiment, in the first portions M1, M2, and M3, the first gap G1between the first plate341and the second plate342may be larger than the second gap G2between the first plate341and the second plate342in the second portion N1and N2.

According to an embodiment, in the first portions M1, M2, and M3, an end portion of the first plate341may have an inclined shape (e.g., an inclined shape of the first edge portion3412) as illustrated inFIG.7A. In the first portions M1, M2, and M3, an end portion of the second plate342may have an inclined shape (e.g., an inclined shape of the second edge portion3422) as illustrated inFIG.7A.

According to an embodiment, in the second portions N1and N2, an end portion of the first plate341may not have an inclined shape as illustrated inFIG.7B. For example, referring toFIG.7B, the end portion3419of the first plate341may have a surface orthogonal to the direction in which the first plate341extends. In the second portions N1and N2, an end portion of the second plate342may not have an inclined shape as illustrated inFIG.7B. For example, referring toFIG.7B, the end portion3429of the second plate342may have a surface orthogonal to the direction in which the second plate342extends.

According to an embodiment, the plate340may include body portions3411and3421. The body portions3411and3421may be seated on the hinge320. The body portions3411and3421may be portions of the plate340. The first plate341may include a first body portion3411. The first body portion3411may be seated on the first hinge arm322. The second plate342may include a second body portion3421. The second body portion3421may be seated on the second hinge arm323.

According to an embodiment, the plate340may include edge portions3412and3422. The edge portions3412and3422may extend from the body portions3411and3421toward the folding axis FX. The edge portions3412and3422may be integrated with the body portions3411and3421. The first plate341may include a first edge portion3412. The first edge portion3412may extend from the first body portion3411toward the folding axis FX. The first edge portion3412may extend from the first body portion3411toward the second plate342. The second edge portion3422may extend from the second body portion3421toward the folding axis FX. The second edge portion3422may extend from the second body portion3421toward the first plate341. The first edge portion3412and the second edge portion3422may be spaced apart from each other. The first edge portion3412and the second edge portion3422may face each other with the folding axis FX interposed therebetween.

FIG.7Ais a cross-sectional view taken along reference line A-A′ ofFIG.5in a state in which components (e.g., the display310, the hinge320, the hinge cover330, the plate340, and the damping member350) ofFIG.5are assembled according to various embodiments.FIG.7Bis a cross-sectional view taken along reference line B-B′ ofFIG.6Din a state in which components (e.g., the display310, the hinge320, the hinge cover330, the plate340, and the damping member350) ofFIG.5are assembled according to various embodiments. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIGS.7A and7Bmay be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.1to6D. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIGS.7A and7Bmay be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.8to12.

FIG.7Amay be a cross-sectional view taken along reference line A-A′ in the first portions M1, M2, and M3illustrated inFIG.6D.FIG.7Bmay be a cross-sectional view taken along reference line B-B′ in the second portions N1and N2illustrated inFIG.6D.

According to an embodiment, the hinge body321may be received in the hinge cover330. The hinge body321may be fixed to the hinge cover330. A portion of each of the first hinge arm322and the second hinge arm323may be surrounded by the hinge cover330. The first hinge arm322and the second hinge arm323may be spaced apart from each other, and the folding axis FX may pass between the first hinge arm322and the second hinge arm323.

According to an embodiment, the first plate341may be seated on the first hinge arm322. The second plate342may be seated on the second hinge arm323. The first plate341and the second plate342may be spaced apart from each other, and the folding axis FX may pass between the first plate341and the second plate342.

According to an embodiment, the first damping member351may be disposed between the first digitizer3121and the first plate341. The second damping member352may be disposed between the second digitizer3122and the second plate342. The first damping member351and the second damping member352may be spaced apart from each other, and the folding axis FX may pass between the first damping member351and the second damping member352.

According to an embodiment, the first digitizer3121may be disposed between the first damping member351and the panel311. The second digitizer3122may be disposed between the second damping member352and the panel311. The first digitizer3121and the second digitizer3122may be spaced apart from each other, and the folding axis FX may pass between the first digitizer3121and the second digitizer3122.

According to an embodiment, the digitizer (e.g., the digitizer312ofFIG.5) may be integrally formed. For example, the digitizer312may integrally correspond to the entire area of the panel311without a cut portion.

According to an embodiment, the panel311may include a first layer3111and a second layer3112. The first layer3111and the second layer3112may be stacked on each other. The first layer3111may display a screen. The second layer3112may be disposed between the first layer3111and the plates341and342. The second layer3112may be a metal layer including a lattice shape. The second layer3112may supplement the rigidity of the deformable first layer3111. For example, the second layer3112may mitigate an impact applied to the first layer3111. The second layer3112may support the first layer3111. The second layer3112may be referred to as a “reinforcement layer”. The second layer3112may be referred to as a “lattice layer”.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a folding space FS. The folding space FS may be formed between the first hinge arm322and the second hinge arm323. The folding space FS may be formed between the first plate341and the second plate342. The folding space FS may be formed between the first damping member351and the second damping member352. The folding space FS may be formed between the first digitizer3121and the second digitizer3122. The first edge portion3412and the second edge portion3422may face each other with the folding space FS interposed therebetween. The folding axis FX may penetrate the folding space FS. The folding space FS may be a space formed between a first housing (e.g., the first housing391ofFIG.6A) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing392ofFIG.6A). The first housing391and the second housing392may be rotated about the folding axis FX, and the folding space FS may be used as a space required for rotation.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a panel311, a plate340, hinge arms322and323, a hinge housing330, and housings391and392. The above-described components (e.g., the panel311, the plate340, the hinge arms322and323, the hinge housing330, and the housing391and392) may be stacked in one direction (e.g., the −Z direction) in the order mentioned. The electronic device101may not include the digitizers3121and3122or the cushioning layers351and352.

According to an embodiment, the first edge portion3412may extend from the first body portion3411toward the folding space FS. The first edge portion3412may be positioned between the first digitizer3121and the first hinge arm322. The first edge portion3412may face the second edge portion3422.

According to an embodiment, the second edge portion3422may extend from the second body portion3421toward the folding space FS. The second edge portion3422may be positioned between the second digitizer3122and the second hinge arm323. The second edge portion3422may face the first edge portion3421.

According to an embodiment, the second edge portion3422may extend obliquely from the second body portion3421. The second edge portion3422may be inclined toward the folding space FS. The second edge portion3422may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., +Z direction) parallel to the folding axis FX. The second edge portion3422may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., the +X direction) in which the first plate341and the second plate342are spaced apart from each other. The second edge portion3422may have an inclination angle θ2with respect to a direction (e.g., the +X direction) in which the first plate341and the second plate342are spaced apart from each other. The inclination angle θ2may be formed between the second edge portion3422and the second hinge arm323. The second edge portion3422may be inclined to be closer to the display310as it approaches the folding space FS. The second edge portion3422may include a second inclined surface3422aat least partially facing the second hinge arm323. The second edge portion3422may include a second inclined surface3422aat least partially facing the hinge body321.

Referring toFIG.7B, end portions of the plates341and342may not be inclined in the second portion (e.g., the second portions N1and N2ofFIG.6D). The flexible printed circuit board366may be disposed in the second portions N1and N2. The first plate341and the second plate342may cover at least a portion of the flexible circuit board366. The first plate341may include a first plate portion3418and a first plate end portion3419. The first plate end portion3419may protrude from the first plate portion3418toward the folding area FS. The first plate end portion3419may have a surface orthogonal to the direction in which the first plate341extends. The second plate342may include a second plate portion3428and a second plate end portion3429. The second plate end portion3429may protrude from the second plate portion3428toward the folding area FS. The second plate end portion3429may have a surface orthogonal to the direction in which the second plate342extends. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first plate end portion3419and the second plate end portion3429may have a curved shape.

FIG.8is a diagram illustrating an enlarged view of a portion ofFIG.7Aaccording to various embodiments. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIG.8may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.1to7B. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIG.8may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.9to12.

According to an embodiment, the first edge portion3412may extend obliquely from the first body portion3411. The first edge portion3412may be inclined toward the folding space FS. The first edge portion3412may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., +Z direction) parallel to the folding axis FX. The first edge portion3412may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., the +Z direction) in which the first hinge arm322and the flexible display310are spaced apart from each other. The first edge portion3412may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., the +X direction) in which the first plate341and the second plate342are spaced apart from each other. The first edge portion3412may have an inclination angle θ1with respect to a direction (e.g., the +X direction) in which the first plate341and the second plate342are spaced apart from each other. According to an embodiment, the first edge portion3412may be formed so that the width of the first edge portion3412gradually decreases with respect to a direction (e.g., the +X direction) in which the first plate341and the second plate (e.g., the second plate342ofFIG.7A) are spaced apart from each other. An inclination angle θ1may be formed between the first edge portion3412and the first hinge arm322. The first edge portion3412may be inclined to be closer to the display310as it approaches the folding space FS. The first edge portion3412may include a first inclined surface3412aat least partially facing the first hinge arm322. The first edge portion3412may include a first inclined surface3412aat least partially facing the hinge body321.

According to an embodiment, the first plate341may be seated on the first hinge arm322. The first hinge arm322may include a first portion3221, a protrusion portion3222, and a second portion3223. The first portion3221may be spaced apart from the first plate341. The protrusion portion3222may connect the first portion3221and the second portion3223. The first plate341may be seated on the second portion3223.

According to an embodiment, the first plate341may include a bending portion3413. The bending portion3413may connect the first body portion3411and the first edge portion3412. The bending portion3413may contact the second portion3223. The first edge portion3412may extend obliquely from the bending portion3413. The bending portion3413may be positioned between the protrusion portion3222and the hinge arm side surface322a. The bending portion3413may be referred to as a “boundary portion”, a “bent portion”, or an “edge start portion”. The bending portion3413may form a boundary between the first body portion3411and the first edge portion3412. The bending portion3413may include a curved portion between the first body portion3411and the first edge portion3412. The bending portion3413, which is a portion of the first plate341, may include at least a portion of the first body portion3411and the first edge portion3412, which are integrally formed with each other. The first inclined surface3412amay face the second portion3223of the first hinge arm322.

According to an embodiment, the first hinge arm322may include a hinge arm side surface322afacing the folding space FS. The first plate341may include a first inclined surface3412afacing the folding space FS. The first damping member351may include a damping member surface351afacing the folding space FS. The first digitizer3121may include a digitizer surface3121afacing the folding space FS. The first inclined surface3412amay be positioned to protrude further in one direction (e.g., the +X direction) than the damping member surface351a. The digitizer surface3121amay be positioned to protrude further in one direction (e.g., the +X direction) than the first inclined surface3412a. The first digitizer3121may further protrude toward the folding space FS than the first plate341. The first inclined surface3412aand the hinge arm side surface322amay be aligned along a direction (e.g., +Z direction) parallel to the folding axis FX.

According to an embodiment, the distance D4from the protrusion portion3222to the hinge arm side surface322amay range from 0.7 mm to 0.9 mm. The distance D4from the protrusion portion3222to the hinge arm side surface322amay be 0.8 mm. The distance D4from the protrusion portion3222to the first inclined surface3412amay range from 0.7 mm to 0.9 mm. The distance from the protrusion portion3222to the first inclined surface3412amay be 0.8 mm. The distance D2from the bending portion3413to the end portion of the first inclined surface3412amay range from 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm. The distance D2from the bending portion3413to an end portion of the first inclined surface3412amay be 0.15 mm. The distance D1from the protrusion portion3222to the bending portion3413may range from 0.6 mm to 0.7 mm. The distance D1from the protrusion portion3222to the bending portion3413may be 0.65 mm. The distance D3from the end portion of the first inclined surface3412ato the digitizer surface3121amay be smaller than the distance D4from the protrusion portion3222to the end portion of the first inclined surface3412a. The thickness H of the first edge portion3412in a direction parallel to the folding axis FX may range from 0.35 mm to 0.45 mm. The thickness H of the first edge portion3412in a direction parallel to the folding axis FX may be 0.4 mm. Numerical values (e.g., D1, D2, D3, D4, and H) of the above-described components are not limited thereto. For example, the numerical values (e.g., D1, D2, D3, D4, and H) of the above-described components are not limited to the above-described range, and may have numerical values outside the above-described range.

According to an embodiment, the description of the first plate341described above may be equally applied to the second plate342illustrated inFIG.7A. For example, the second plate342may include a second body portion3421, a second edge portion3422, a bending portion, and a second inclined surface3422a. For example, the description of the positional relationship (e.g., D1, D2, D3, D4, and H) between the second plate342, the second hinge arm323, the second damping member352, and the second digitizer3122may be identically applied to the description of the positional relationship between the above-described components (e.g., the first plate341, the first hinge arm322, the first damping member351, and the first digitizer3121).

FIG.9is a diagram illustrating a portion of a cross-sectional view of the electronic device101when a load is applied to the display310according to various embodiments. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIG.9may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.1to8. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIG.9may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.10to12.

According to an embodiment, when the load body W is placed on the display310, the display310may be bent downward (e.g., in the −Z direction). A portion of the display310may be bent toward the folding space FS. At least a portion of the panel311of the display310may be bent toward a space between the first plate341and the second plate342. The plates341and342and the damping members351and352may support the display310. When the load W is applied to the display310, the first inclined surface3412amay move toward the first hinge arm322. When the load W is applied to the display310, the first inclined surface3412amay contact the first hinge arm322. When the load W is applied to the display310, the second inclined surface3422amay move toward the second hinge arm323. When the load W is applied to the display310, the second inclined surface3422amay contact the second hinge arm323. The first edge portion3412may include a flexible material. The second edge portion3422may include a flexible material. When the load W is applied to the display310, the first damping member351may be pressed in a direction in which the display310is deformed. When the load W is applied to the display310, the second damping member352may be pressed in a direction in which the display310is deformed. When the load W is applied to the display310, the thicknesses of the damping members351and352may be changed. The damping members351and352may include a flexible material. When the load W is applied to the display310, the first edge portion3412may be deformed along the first direction R1. The first edge portion3412may include a deformable material, and may be deformed toward the hinge arm322when the load W is applied to the display310. When the load W is applied to the display310, the first inclined surface3412aof the first edge portion3412may be deformed to be arranged in parallel with one surface of the first body portion3411. When the load W is applied to the display310, the second edge portion3422may be deformed along the second direction R2. The second edge portion3422may include a deformable material, and may be deformed toward the hinge arm323when the load W is applied to the display310. When the load W is applied to the display310, the second inclined surface3422aof the second edge portion3422may be deformed to be arranged in parallel with one surface of the second body portion3421. When the load W is applied to the display310, the first hinge arm322may support the first plate341including the first inclined surface3412a. When the load W is applied to the display310, the second hinge arm323may support the second plate342including the second inclined surface3422a.

FIG.10is a cross-sectional view taken along reference line A-A′ ofFIG.5in a state in which components (e.g., the display310, the hinge320, the hinge cover330, the plate340, and the damping member350) ofFIG.5are assembled according to various embodiments. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIG.10may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.1to9. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIG.10may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.11and12.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a first plate441and a second plate442. The description of the first plate441and the second plate442may be identically applied to the description of the plates341and342described with reference toFIGS.1to9.

According to an embodiment, the first plate441may include a first body portion4411and a first edge portion4412. The first edge portion4412may extend from the first body portion4411toward the folding space FS. The first edge portion4412may be positioned between the first digitizer3121and the first hinge arm322. The first edge portion4412may face the second edge portion4422.

According to an embodiment, the second plate442may include a second body portion4421and a second edge portion4422. The second edge portion4422may extend from the second body portion4421toward the folding space FS. The second edge portion4422may be positioned between the second digitizer3122and the second hinge arm323. The second edge portion4422may face the first edge portion4421.

According to an embodiment, the first edge portion4412may extend obliquely from the first body portion4411. The first edge portion4412may be inclined toward the folding space FS. The first edge portion4412may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., +Z direction) parallel to the folding axis FX. The first edge portion4412may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., the +X direction) in which the first plate441and the second plate442are spaced apart from each other. The first edge portion4412may have an inclination angle θ3with respect to a direction (e.g., the +X direction) in which the first plate441and the second plate442are spaced apart from each other. The first edge portion4412may be inclined away from the display310as it approaches the folding space FS. The first edge portion4412may include a first inclined surface4412aat least partially facing the first digitizer3121. The first edge portion4412may include a first inclined surface4412aat least partially facing the display310.

According to an embodiment, the second edge portion4422may extend obliquely from the second body portion4421. The second edge portion4422may be inclined toward the folding space FS. The second edge portion4422may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., +Z direction) parallel to the folding axis FX. The second edge portion4422may be inclined with respect to a direction (e.g., the −X direction) in which the first plate441and the second plate442are spaced apart from each other. The first edge portion4422may have an inclination angle θ4with respect to a direction (e.g., the +X direction) in which the first plate441and the second plate442are spaced apart from each other. The second edge portion4422may be inclined away from the display310as it approaches the folding space FS. The second edge portion4422may include a second inclined surface4422aat least partially facing the second digitizer3122. The second edge portion4422may include a second inclined surface4422aat least partially facing the display310.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include damping members451and452. The damping members451and452may include a first damping member451disposed between the first digitizer3121and the first plate441and a second damping member452disposed between the second digitizer3122and the second plate442. The first damping member451may be spaced apart from the first inclined surface4412ain a direction away from the folding space FS. The second damping member452may be spaced apart from the second inclined surface4422ain a direction away from the folding space FS. The width w1of the first damping member451may be smaller than the width of the first damping member351described with reference toFIG.7A. The width w2of the second damping member452may be smaller than the width of the second damping member352described with reference toFIG.7A.

FIG.11is a perspective view illustrating a structure in which a hinge520, a plate540, a support bar570, and a connector560are assembled according to various embodiments.FIG.12is a cross-sectional view taken along reference line B-B′ ofFIG.11according to various embodiments. Some or all of the components described with reference toFIGS.11and12may be the same as or similar to those described with reference toFIGS.1to10.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a hinge520. The hinge520may be the same as the hinge320described with reference toFIGS.1to10. For example, the hinge520may include a hinge body521, a first hinge arm522, and a second hinge arm533.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a plate540. The plate540may be the same as the plate340described with reference toFIGS.1to10. For example, the plate540may include a first plate541and a second plate542spaced apart from each other.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device101may include a support bar570. The support bar570may be disposed between the first plate541and the second plate542. The electronic device101may include a connector560. The connector560may connect the support bar570and the hinge cover530.

According to an embodiment, the first plate541may be seated on the first hinge arm522. The second plate542may be seated on the second hinge arm523. The first plate541may include a first body portion5411and a first edge portion5412having a first inclined surface5412a. The second plate542may include a second body portion5421and a second edge portion5422having a second inclined surface5422a.

According to an embodiment, the first inclined surface5412amay be inclined toward the support bar570. According to an embodiment, the first inclined surface5412amay be formed so that the width of the first edge portion5412gradually decreases toward the support bar570. The first inclined surface5412amay face the support bar570. The first inclined surface5412amay be inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate541and the support bar570are spaced apart from each other. The first inclined surface5412amay have an inclination angle θ5with respect to a direction in which the first plate541and the support bar570are spaced apart from each other. According to an embodiment, the inclination angle may be formed at an upper portion or a lower portion of the first edge5412.

According to an embodiment, the second inclined surface5422amay be inclined toward the support bar570. The second inclined surface5422amay face the support bar570. The second inclined surface5422amay be inclined with respect to a direction in which the second plate542and the support bar570are spaced apart from each other. The second inclined surface5422amay have an inclination angle θ6with respect to a direction in which the second plate542and the support bar570are spaced apart from each other.

The electronic device may include a first housing and a second housing rotatably coupled to each other. The electronic device may include a flexible display disposed in the first housing and the second housing and at least partially deformable. When a load is applied to the flexible display, the flexible display may be bent into the inner space of the housing. When a structure supporting the flexible display is absent, the flexible display may be damaged by deformation of the flexible display.

Embodiments of the disclosure may be to support the flexible display.

Embodiments of the disclosure may be to manufacture the shape of the support structure according to the deformation direction of the flexible display.

Embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to the above, and may be determined various without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the disclosure may support a flexible display by disposing a plate having an inclined end portion.

The electronic device according to various embodiments of the disclosure may support the flexible display by adjusting the direction of the inclined surface of the plate to the deformation direction of the flexible display.

Effects obtainable from the disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

An electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a first housing (e.g.,391ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a second housing (e.g.,392ofFIGS.1to12) rotatably coupled to the first housing (e.g.,391ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a hinge (e.g.,320ofFIGS.1to12) including a first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) connected to the first housing (e.g.,391ofFIGS.1to12) and a second hinge arm (e.g.,323ofFIGS.1to12) connected to the second housing (e.g.,392ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) seated in the first housing (e.g.,391ofFIGS.1to12) and the second housing (e.g.,392ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) seated in the first housing (e.g.,391ofFIGS.1to12) and the second housing (e.g.,392ofFIGS.1to12) and spaced apart from each of the first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) and the second hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) disposed between the first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) and the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) disposed between the second hinge arm (e.g.,323ofFIGS.1to12) and the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) and spaced apart from the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12).

A first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a first edge portion (e.g.,3412ofFIGS.1to12) having a first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12) inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) are spaced apart from each other.

A first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a first edge portion (e.g.,3412ofFIGS.1to12) having a first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12) inclined with respect to a direction in which the first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) and the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) are spaced apart from each other.

The second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a second edge portion (e.g.,3422ofFIGS.1to12) having a second inclined surface (e.g.,3422aofFIGS.1to12) inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) are spaced apart from each other.

The first edge portion (e.g.,3412ofFIGS.1to12) and the second edge portion (e.g.,3422ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may face each other in a direction in which the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) are spaced apart from each other.

The first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may face the first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12).

An inclination angle (e.g.,01ofFIGS.1to12) may be formed between the first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12) and the first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a hinge cover (e.g.,330ofFIGS.1to12) in which at least a portion of the hinge (e.g.,320ofFIGS.1to12) is configured to be received.

At least a portion of the first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may face the hinge cover (e.g.,330ofFIGS.1to12).

The first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a first portion (e.g.,3221ofFIGS.1to12) spaced apart from the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12).

The first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a protrusion portion (e.g.,3222ofFIGS.1to12) extending from the first portion (e.g.,3221ofFIGS.1to12) toward the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12).

The first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a second portion (e.g.,3223ofFIGS.1to12) on which the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) is seated and which faces the first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12).

A folding space (e.g., the FS ofFIGS.1to12) in which the flexible display is deformed may be formed between the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

The first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may be inclined toward the folding space (e.g., FS ofFIGS.1to12).

The first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may be inclined to approach the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) toward the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a damping member (e.g.,350ofFIGS.1to12) comprising a flexible material disposed between the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) and the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12).

The flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a panel (e.g.,311ofFIGS.1to12).

The flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a first digitizer (e.g.,3121ofFIGS.1to12) disposed between the panel (e.g.,311ofFIGS.1to12) and the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and facing the first edge portion (e.g.,3412ofFIGS.1to12).

The first inclined surface (e.g.,4412aofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may face the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12).

A folding space (e.g., FS ofFIGS.1to12) in which the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) is configured to be deformed may be formed between the first plate (e.g.,441ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,442ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

The first inclined surface (e.g.,4412aofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may be inclined to approach the first hinge arm (e.g.,322ofFIGS.1to12) toward the folding space (e.g., FS ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a support bar (e.g.,570ofFIGS.1to12) disposed between the first plate (e.g.,541ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,542ofFIGS.1to12) and facing the first inclined surface (e.g.,5412aofFIGS.1to12).

The first inclined surface (e.g.,5412aofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may be inclined away from the first hinge arm (e.g.,522ofFIGS.1to12) toward the support bar (e.g.,570ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) seated in the first housing (e.g.,391ofFIGS.1to12) and the second housing (e.g.,392ofFIGS.1to12) and configured to be at least partially deformed.

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a hinge (e.g.,320ofFIGS.1to12) rotatably connecting the first housing (e.g.,391ofFIGS.1to12) and the second housing (e.g.,392ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) disposed between the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) and the hinge (e.g.,320ofFIGS.1to12).

The electronic device (e.g.,101ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) disposed between the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) and the hinge (e.g.,320ofFIGS.1to12) and spaced apart from the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12).

A folding space (e.g., FS ofFIGS.1to12) in which the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) is configured to be deformed may be formed between the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure.

The first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include edge portions (e.g.,3412and3422ofFIGS.1to12) inclined toward the folding space (e.g., FS ofFIGS.1to12).

The first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a first inclined surface (e.g.,3412aofFIGS.1to12) inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) are spaced apart from each other.

The second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include a second inclined surface (e.g.,3422aofFIGS.1to12) inclined with respect to a direction in which the first plate (e.g.,341ofFIGS.1to12) and the second plate (e.g.,342ofFIGS.1to12) are spaced apart from each other.

The edge portion (e.g.,3412or3422ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include inclined surfaces (e.g.,3412aor3422aofFIGS.1to12) facing the hinge (e.g.,320ofFIGS.1to12).

The edge portions (e.g.,3412and3422ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may be configured to be deformable toward the hinge (e.g.,320ofFIGS.1to12).

The edge portions (e.g.,4412and4422ofFIGS.1to12) according to an example embodiment of the disclosure may include inclined surfaces (e.g.,4412aand4422aofFIGS.1to12) approaching the flexible display (e.g.,310ofFIGS.1to12) toward the folding space (e.g., FS ofFIGS.1to12).