HINGE APPARATUS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME

An electronic device may include: a housing including a first housing and a second housing, a hinge connecting the first housing and the second housing to be rotatable, a display module including a display panel including a first area disposed in the first housing, a second area disposed in the second housing, and a folding area disposed in the hinge part, a first plate supporting the first area of the display panel, and a second plate supporting the second area of the display panel, a third plate disposed under the first plate, and a fourth plate disposed under the second plate. At least a part of at least one of the third plate and the fourth plate may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate to support at least some of the folding area of the display panel.

BACKGROUND

Field

The disclosure relates to a hinge apparatus and an electronic device including the same.

Description of Related Art

As technology for an electronic device continues to develop, the display size of the electronic device is increased so that a user can use various functions, such as a multimedia function and web surfing, in a larger screen. Accordingly, the size of the electronic device also continues to increase, and various types of electronic devices may be provided in order to improve the portability of the electronic device. For example, there may be provided a foldable electronic device folded so that housings of the electronic device are symmetrical to each other on the basis of a rotation axis within the electronic device.

As the foldable electronic device emerges, the development of a technology for components that connect the housings of the electronic device in a way to be foldable is increased.

A foldable display may be disposed in a foldable electronic device. In order for the foldable electronic device to be smoothly folded, a housing in which components of the electronic device are disposed and internal instruments may be separated on the basis of a folding area. Accordingly, the folding area of a display may be vulnerable to an external force.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure may provide an apparatus capable of protecting the folding area of the display.

According to various example embodiments, an electronic device may include: a housing including a first housing and a second housing, a hinge connecting the first housing and the second housing to be rotatable, a display module including a display panel including a first area disposed in the first housing, a second area disposed in the second housing, and a folding area disposed in hinge portion, a first plate supporting the first area of the display panel, and a second plate supporting the second area of the display panel, a third plate disposed under the first plate, and a fourth plate disposed under the second plate. At least a part of at least one of the third plate and the fourth plate may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate to support at least some of the folding area of the display panel.

According to various example embodiments, a hinge apparatus may include: a hinge connecting a first housing and second housing of an electronic device to be rotatable, a third plate disposed under a first plate supporting a first area of a display panel of the electronic device and combined with the hinge, and a fourth plate disposed under a second plate supporting a second area of the display panel of the electronic device and combined with the hinge. At least a part of at least one of the third plate and the fourth plate may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate, and may be configured to support a folding area of the display panel.

According to various example embodiments of the disclosure, a structure supporting the folding area of a display can be provided. Accordingly, the folding area of the display can be protected.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It should be appreciated that various example embodiments of the disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for a corresponding embodiment.

With regard to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It is to be understood that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

FIG.1Ais a diagram illustrating an unfolded state of an electronic device100according to various embodiments.FIG.1Bis a diagram illustrating a folded state of the electronic device100inFIG.1Aaccording to various embodiments.

Referring toFIG.1A, an electronic device100may include a pair of housing110and120rotatably coupled via a hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure164inFIG.1C) to be folded relative to each other, a hinge cover165covering the foldable portion of the pair of housings110and120, and a display130(e.g., flexible display or foldable display) disposed in the space formed by the pair of housings110and120. In the description, the surface on which the display130is disposed may be referred to as the front surface of the electronic device100, and the opposite side of the front surface may be referred to as the rear surface of the electronic device100. The surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the rear surface may be referred to as the side surface of the electronic device100.

In the disclosure, a direction to which the front surface is directed may be defined as a first direction, and a direction to which the rear surface is directed may be defined as a second direction.

In the disclosure, in describing a stack order (e.g., the stack order of the display), “a layer B is formed on a layer” may refer, for example, to the layer B being formed in the first direction from a layer A. In describing a stack order (e.g., the stack order of the display), “a layer B is formed below a layer” may refer, for example, to the layer B being formed in the second direction from a layer A.

In an embodiment, the pair of housings110and120may include a first housing110including a sensor region131d, a second housing120, a first rear cover140, and a second rear cover150. The pair of housings110and120of the electronic device100are not limited to the shape or combination illustrated inFIGS.1A and1B, but may be implemented in various shapes or combinations. For example, in an embodiment, the first housing110and the first rear cover140may be formed as a single body, and the second housing120and the second rear cover150may be formed as a single body.

In an embodiment, the first housing110and the second housing120may be disposed at both sides with respect to the folding axis (A) and may be substantially symmetrical with respect to the folding axis (A). In an embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing110and the second housing120may vary depending upon whether the electronic device100is in the flat state or closed state, the folded state, or the intermediate state. In an embodiment, the first housing110includes the sensor region131dwhere various sensors are disposed, but may have a symmetrical shape with the second housing120in other regions. In an embodiment, the sensor region131dmay be disposed in a specific region of the second housing120or may be replaced.

In an embodiment, the electronic device100may operate in an in-folding manner and/or in an out-folding manner in a way that the first housing110is rotated in a range of 0 to 360 degrees with respect to the second housing120through a hinge (e.g., the hinge164inFIG.1C). According to various embodiments, the hinge164may be vertically formed or may be horizontally formed when the electronic device100is viewed from the top. According to various embodiments, the hinge164may be plural. For example all the plurality of hinges may be arranged in the same direction. Furthermore, for example, some of the plurality of hinges may be arranged and folded in different directions.

In an embodiment, during the flat state of the electronic device100, the first housing110may be connected to the hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure164inFIG.1C), and may include a first surface111facing the front surface of the electronic device100, a second surface112facing away from the first surface111, and a first side member113enclosing 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 in parallel with the folding axis (A), 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 the other end of the first side surface113ain a direction perpendicular to the folding axis.

In an embodiment, during the flat state of the electronic device100, the second housing120may be connected to the hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure164inFIG.1C), and may include a third surface121facing the front surface of the electronic device100, a fourth surface122facing away from the third surface121, and a second side member123enclosing 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 in parallel with the folding axis (A), a fifth side surface123bextending from one end of the fourth side surface123ain a direction perpendicular to the folding axis, and a sixth side surface123cextending from the other end of the fourth side surface123ain a direction perpendicular to the folding axis. In an embodiment, the third surface121may face the first surface111in the folded state.

In an embodiment, the electronic device100may include a recess101formed to accommodate the display130through a structural combination of the shapes of the first housing110and the second housing120. The recess101may have substantially the same size as the display130. In an embodiment, the recess101may have two or more different widths in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (A) due to the sensor region131d. For example, the recess101may have a first width (W1) between a first portion120aof the second housing120parallel to the folding axis (A) and a first portion110aof the first housing110formed at the edge of the sensor region131d, and have a second width (W2) between a second portion120bof the second housing120and a second portion110bof the first housing110that does not correspond to the sensor region113dand is parallel to the folding axis (A). Here, the second width (W2) may be wider than the first width (W1). In other words, the recess101may be formed to have the first width (W1) ranging from the first portion110aof the first housing110to the first portion120aof the second housing120(asymmetric shape), and the second width (W2) ranging from the second portion110bof the first housing110to the second portion120bof the second housing120(symmetric shape). In an embodiment, the first portion110aand the second portion110bof the first housing110may be located at different distances from the folding axis (A). The width of the recess101is not limited to the example shown above. In various embodiments, the recess101may have two or more different widths owing to the shape of the sensor region113dor the asymmetry of the first housing110or the second housing120.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing110and the second housing120may be made of a metal or non-metal material having a rigidity value selected to support the display130.

In an embodiment, the sensor region131dmay be formed to have a preset area near to one corner of the first housing110. However, the arrangement, shape, or size of the sensor region131dis not limited to the illustrated example. For example, in a certain embodiment, the sensor region131dmay be formed at another corner of the first housing110or in any region between the upper corner and the lower corner. In an embodiment, the sensor region131dmay be disposed at a portion of the second housing120. In an embodiment, the sensor region131dmay be formed to extend between the first housing110and the second housing120. In an embodiment, to perform various functions, the electronic device100may include components exposed to the front surface of the electronic device100through the sensor region113dor through one or more openings provided in the sensor region131d. The components may include, for example, at least one of a front camera, a receiver, a proximity sensor, an illuminance sensor, an iris recognition sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an indicator.

In an embodiment, the first rear cover140may be disposed on the second surface112of the first housing110and may have a substantially rectangular periphery. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the periphery may be wrapped by the first housing110. Similarly, the second rear cover150may be disposed on the fourth surface122of the second housing120, and at least a portion of the periphery thereof may be wrapped by the second housing120.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first rear cover140and the second rear cover150may have a substantially symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis (A). In an embodiment, the first rear cover140and the second rear cover150may have various different shapes. In an embodiment, the first rear cover140may be formed as a single body with the first housing110, and the second rear cover150may be formed as a single body with the second housing120.

In an embodiment, the first rear cover140, the second rear cover150, the first housing110, and the second housing120may be combined with each other so as to provide a space where various components (e.g., printed circuit board, antenna module, sensor module, and battery) of the electronic device100can be arranged. In an embodiment, one or more components may be disposed on or visually exposed via the rear surface of the electronic device100. For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the first rear region141of the first rear cover140. The sensors may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera, and/or a flash. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the sub-display152may be visually exposed through the second rear region151of the second rear cover150.

The display130may be disposed on the space formed by the pair of housings110and120. For example, the display130may be seated in the recess (e.g., recess101inFIG.1A) formed by the pair of housings110and120, and may be disposed to substantially occupy most of the front surface of the electronic device100. Hence, the front surface of the electronic device100may include the display130, a portion (e.g., edge region) of the first housing110close to the display130, and a portion (e.g. edge region) of the second housing120close to the display130. In an embodiment, the rear surface of the electronic device100may include the first rear cover140, a portion (e.g., edge region) of the first housing110close to the first rear cover140, the second rear cover150, and a portion (e.g. edge region) of the second housing120close to the second rear cover150.

In an embodiment, the display130may refer to a display in which at least a portion may be deformed into a flat or curved surface. In an embodiment, the display130may include a folding region131c, a first region131adisposed on one side (e.g., right side of the folding region131c) with respect to the folding region131c, and a second region131bdisposed on the other side (e.g., left side of the folding region131c). For example, the first region131amay be disposed on the first surface111of the first housing110, and the second region131bmay be disposed on the third surface121of the second housing120. This demarcation of the display130is only an example, and the display130may be subdivided into plural regions (e.g., four or more regions) according to the structure or functionality. For example, in the embodiment of FIG.1A, the area of the display130may be subdivided with respect to the folding region131cor the folding axis (A) extending parallel to the y-axis. However, in an embodiment, the area of the display130may be subdivided with respect to a different folding region (e.g., folding region parallel to the x-axis) or a different folding axis (e.g., folding axis parallel to the x-axis). The aforementioned subdivision of the display is only a physical demarcation based on the pair of housings110and120and the hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure164inFIG.1C), and the display130may substantially present one full screen through the pair of housings110and120and the hinge structure (e.g., hinge structure164inFIG.1C). In an embodiment, the first region131aand the second region131bmay have a symmetrical shape with respect to the folding region131c. Although the first region131amay include a notch region (e.g., notch region133inFIG.1C) cut according to the presence of the sensor region131d, the first region131amay have a symmetrical shape with the second region131bin other portions. In other words, the first region131aand the second region131bmay include portions with symmetrical shapes and portions with asymmetrical shapes.

FIG.1Bis a diagram illustrating a folded state of the electronic device ofFIG.1Aaccording to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.1B, the hinge cover165may be disposed between the first housing110and the second housing120so as to cover the internal components (e.g., hinge structure164inFIG.1C). In an embodiment, the hinge cover165may be covered by portions of the first housing110and the second housing120or be exposed to the outside according to the operating state (e.g., flat state or folded state) of the electronic device100.

For example, when the electronic device100is in the flat state as illustrated inFIG.1A, the hinge cover165may be covered by the first housing110and the second housing120so as not to be exposed. When the electronic device100is in the folded state (e.g., completely folded state) as illustrated inFIG.1B, the hinge cover165may be exposed to the outside between the first housing110and the second housing120. When the electronic device100is in the intermediate state where the first housing110and the second housing120make a certain angle, the hinge cover165may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing110and the second housing120. In this case, the exposed portion may be less than that for the fully folded state. In an embodiment, the hinge cover165may include a curved surface.

A description is given of configurations of the first housing110and the second housing120and regions of the display130according to the operating state (e.g. flat state or folded state) of the electronic device100.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is in the flat state (e.g., state ofFIG.1A), the first housing110and the second housing120may make an angle of 180 degrees, and the first region131aand the second region131bof the display may be disposed to face in the same direction. In addition, the folding region131cmay be coplanar with the first region131aand the second region131b.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is in the folded state (e.g., state ofFIG.1B), the first housing110and the second housing120may be disposed to face each other. The first region131aand the second region131bof the display130may face each other, making a narrow angle (e.g., between 0 degrees and 10 degrees). At least a portion of the folding region131cmay form a curved surface with a preset curvature.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is in the intermediate state, the first housing110and the second housing120may be disposed to make a certain angle. The first region131aand the second region131bof the display130may form an angle greater than that for the folded state and less than that for the flat state. At least a portion of the folding region131cmay form a curved surface with a preset curvature. This curvature may be less than that for the folded state.

FIG.1Cis an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring toFIG.1C, in an embodiment, the electronic device100may include a display130, a support member assembly160, at least one printed circuit board170, a first housing110, a second housing120, a first rear cover140, and a second rear cover150. In the description, the display130may be referred to as a display unit, display module, or display assembly.

The display130may include a display panel131(e.g., flexible display panel), and at least one plate132or layer on which the display panel131is seated. In an embodiment, one or more plates132may include a conductive plate (e.g., Cu sheet or SUS sheet) disposed between the display panel131and the support member assembly160. According to an embodiment, the conductive plate may be formed to have substantially the same area as that of the display, and an area facing a folding area of the display may be formed to be bendable. The plate132may include at least one subsidiary material layer (e.g., graphite member) disposed at a 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 plate132may 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, a hinge structure164disposed between the first support member161and the second support member162, a hinge cover165to cover the hinge structure164when viewed from the outside, and a wiring member163(e.g., flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) that crosses the first support member161and the second support member162.

In an embodiment, the support member assembly160may be disposed between the plate132and at least one printed circuit board170. For example, the first support member161may be disposed between the first region131aof the display130and the first printed circuit board171. The second support member162may be disposed between the second region131bof the display130and the second printed circuit board172.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the wiring member163and the hinge structure164may be disposed within the support member assembly160. The wiring member163may be disposed in a direction crossing the first support member161and the second support member162(e.g., x-axis direction). The wiring member163may be disposed in a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) perpendicular to the folding axis (e.g., y-axis or folding axis (A) inFIG.1B) of the folding region131c.

The at least one printed circuit board170may include, as described above, the first printed circuit board171disposed on the side of the first support member161, and the second printed circuit board172disposed on the side of the second support member162. The first printed circuit board171and the second printed circuit board172may be disposed inside the space formed by the support member assembly160, the first housing110, the second housing120, the first rear cover140, and the second rear cover150. Various components for implementing functions of the electronic device100may be mounted on the first printed circuit board171and the second printed circuit board172.

In an embodiment, a first space of the first housing110may include a first printed circuit board171disposed in a space formed through the first support member161, a first battery191disposed at a position facing a first swelling hole1611of the first support member161, at least one sensor module181, or at least one camera module182. The first housing110may include a window glass183disposed to protect at least one sensor module181and at least one camera module182at a position corresponding to the notch area133of the display130. In an embodiment, the second space of the second housing120may include a second printed circuit board172disposed in a second space formed through the second support member162and a second battery192disposed at a position facing the second swelling hole1621of the second support member162. According to an embodiment, the first housing110and the first support member161may be integrally formed. According to an embodiment, the second housing120and the second support member162may also be integrally formed. According to an embodiment, a sub display152may be disposed in the second space of the second housing120. According to an embodiment, the sub display152(e.g., the second display) may be disposed to be visible from the outside through at least a partial area of the second rear cover150.

In an embodiment, the first housing110may include a first rotary support surface114, and the second housing120may include a second rotary support surface124corresponding to the first rotary support surface114. The first rotary support surface114and the second rotary support surface124may include a curved surface corresponding to the curved surface included in the hinge cover165.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device100is in the flat state (e.g., state ofFIG.1A), the first rotary support surface114and the second rotary support surface124may cover the hinge cover165so that the hinge cover165may be not or minimally exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device100. When the electronic device100is in the folded state (e.g., state ofFIG.1B), the first rotary support surface114and the second rotary support surface124may rotate along the curved surface included in the hinge cover165so that the hinge cover165may be maximally exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device100.

In the following description, the same or similar component is assigned the same reference numeral except a case where the component is separately indicated. Furthermore, a description of a reference numeral for the same member may be omitted.

FIG.2Ais an exploded perspective view illustrating components of the electronic device according to various embodiments.FIG.2Bis a diagram illustrating a display panel, a rear surface of a first plate, and a rear surface of a second plate according to various embodiments.FIG.2Cis an enlarged perspective view of an area S inFIG.2Bin the state in which the display panel inFIG.2Bhas been folded according to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.2A, the electronic device100(e.g., the electronic device100inFIG.1A) may include a display panel200(e.g., the display130inFIG.1A) providing visual information, a first plate202(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) and a second plate203(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) supporting the display panel200, a hinge part206(e.g., the hinge164inFIG.1C), a third plate204and a fourth plate205combined with the hinge part206, and a hinge cover211(e.g., the hinge cover165inFIG.1B) at least a part of which forms an external appearance of the electronic device100.

Hereinafter, for convenience sake, a direction (e.g., a +Z direction inFIG.2A) of the display panel200visible to the outside of the electronic device100is defined and described as a front surface, and a direction (e.g., a −Z direction inFIG.2A) opposite to the direction of the front surface is defined and described as a rear surface.

According to various embodiments, the display panel200may provide visual information. The display panel200may be a flexible display at least some area of which is foldable. The display panel200may include a first area200-1(e.g., the first area131ainFIG.1A) which is disposed in a first housing110(e.g., the first housing110inFIG.1A) is disposed and to which the first plate202is attached, a second area200-2(e.g., the second area131binFIG.1A) which is disposed in a second housing120(e.g., the second housing120inFIG.1A) is disposed and to which the second plate203is attached, and a folding area200-3(e.g., the folding area131cinFIG.1A) foldable between the first area200-1and the second area200-2. In this case, the first area200-1, the second area200-2, and the folding area200-3are merely conceptually divided in order to describe the display panel200, and may not be components physically divided on the display panel200. In an embodiment, the display panel200may be integrated and formed using one material.

According to various embodiments, a support member201(e.g., the support member201inFIG.2C) may be attached or connected to the rear surface of the display panel200. The support member201may be formed to have substantially the same area as the display panel200. An area of the support member201, which corresponds to the folding area200-3of the display panel200, may be formed in a way to be bendable. The support member201may include a plate or sheet form. The support member201may include a conductive plate, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In an embodiment, at least another layer may be further included between the display panel200and the support member201. In an embodiment, the support member201may be omitted. Hereinafter, it is to be noted that the support member201is denoted and described as the display panel200, but the support member201may be a component attached to the display panel200, for convenience sake.

According to various embodiments, the display panel200may be formed using various materials. In an embodiment, the display panel200may be formed using a flexible material. For example, a substrate of a display module may be formed using a polymer material, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyimide (PI) or glass processed to a very thin thickness.

According to various embodiments, the first plate202may support at least a part of the first area200-1of the display panel200. The second plate203may support at least a part of the second area200-2of the display panel200. The first plate202may prevent and/or reduce a shape of the first area200-1of the display panel200from being deformed due to an external force. For example, the first plate202may be attached and fixed to the first area200-1through an adhesive member, and may enable the first area200-1to maintain a plane. The second plate203may prevent and/or reduce a shape of the second area200-2of the display panel200from being deformed due to an external force. For example, the second plate203may be attached and fixed to the second area200-2through an adhesive member, and may enable the second area200-2to maintain a plane. Hereinafter, the first plate202is basically described for convenience sake, but those skilled in the art will readily understand that the first plate202may also be applied to the second plate203.

According to various embodiments, the first plate202may support the first area200-1so that the size of the first plate202substantially corresponds to the size of the first area200-1of the display panel200. In an embodiment, the first plate202may have a size including the size of the first area200-1and the size of a part of the folding area200-3. The size of the second plate203may substantially correspond to the size of the second area200-2of the display panel200, or may be a size including the second area200-2and a part of the folding area200-3. If the size of each of the first plate202and the second plate203is a size including a part of the folding area200-3, with reference toFIG.2B, in the unfolded stage, the first plate202may support the first area200-1and some area of the folding area200-3, and the second plate203may support the second area200-2and other some area of the folding area200-3. The remaining area of the folding area200-3other than some area of the folding area200-3supported by the first plate202and the other some area of the folding area200-3supported by the second plate203may not be supported by the first plate202and/or the second plate203. In an embodiment, with reference toFIG.2C, in the folded state, the first plate202and the second plate203support the first area200-1and the second area200-2, but may not support the folding area200-3. The first plate202and the second plate203may have symmetrical shapes, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first plate202and the second plate203may have different shapes.

According to various embodiments, a separate instrument supporting at least some of the folding area200-3may not be disposed on the rear surface of the display panel200. For example, the first area200-1may be supported as the first plate202is disposed therein, and the second area200-2may be supported as the second plate203is disposed therein, but at least some area (e.g., an intermediate area) of the folding area200-3in which the first plate202and/or the second plate203are not disposed may not be supported by an instrument (e.g., supported through adhesion or a contact).

According to various embodiments, the first plate202and the second plate203may be formed using a material having given strength or more. The first plate202and the second plate203may be formed using a material having higher strength than that of the display panel200in order to support the display panel200. For example, the first plate202and the second plate203may be formed using a metal material and/or a non-metal material. In this case, the metal material may include at least one of aluminum, stainless steel (SS), iron, magnesium, or titanium or an alloy thereof. The non-metal material may include at least one of synthetic resin, ceramics, or engineering plastic.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.2A, the hinge part (the term “hinge part” may be used interchangeably with the term “hinge” herein)206may include a first hinge206-1and a second hinge206-2. For example, the first hinge206-1may be disposed at an end of the electronic device100in a +Y direction (e.g., a +Y direction inFIG.2A). The second hinge206-2may be disposed at an end of the electronic device100in a −Y direction (e.g., a −Y direction inFIG.2A). The first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2may be disposed to be symmetrical to each other on the basis of an X axis inFIG.2A. The hinge part206may connect the first housing110and the second housing120, and may rotate the second housing120within a designated rotating range on the basis of the first housing110or may rotate the first housing110within a designated rotating range on the basis of the second housing120. For example, the hinge part206may provide the rotating axis of the first or second housing110or120, and may provide torque so that a state of the electronic device100is maintained at a specific angle, for example, 0 degree, 45 degrees, 90 degrees or 180 degrees. The first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2may have substantially the same shape, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2may have different components and/or sizes. Furthermore, although not illustrated, those skilled in the art may readily understand that the hinge part206may include one hinge or three or more hinges. Hereinafter, for convenience sake, the hinge part206is denoted and described, but it is to be noted that the hinge part206may be applied to any one of or both the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2.

According to various embodiments, although not illustrated, the hinge part206may further include a support bar (not illustrated) connecting the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2. For example, the support bar is a plate bar type having a length whose both ends are fixed to the hinges206-1and206-2so that the support bar can be disposed between both the hinges206-1and206-2. When the electronic device100is in the unfolded stage and/or the folded state, the support bar may support at least some of a folding area200-3(e.g., the folding area131cinFIG.1A) of the display panel200. The support bar may be a metal material, for example, a stainless steel (SS) material or a metal powder material.

According to various embodiments, the third plate204may be disposed in the −Z direction with respect to the first plate202on the basis ofFIG.2A. The fourth plate205may be disposed in the −Z direction with respect to the second plate203on the basis ofFIG.2A. The third plate204and the fourth plate205may have symmetrical shapes, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the third plate204and the fourth plate205may be formed to have different sizes.

According to various embodiments, the third plate204may include a first auxiliary plate218. In an embodiment, the first auxiliary plate218may be integrated and formed with the third plate204. For example, the first auxiliary plate218may denote a central part of the third plate204extending in the Y axis direction inFIG.2A, and may indicate a portion of the third plate204in which the wiring member163(e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (e.g., the wiring member163inFIG.1C) is disposed. Accordingly, the first auxiliary plate218may not be a component that is actually distinguished from the third plate204. In an embodiment, the first auxiliary plate218may be combined with the third plate204through separate coupling as a component separated from the third plate204. In this case, the third plate204has a plurality of components, and may be separated and disposed at the ends of the electronic device100in the +Y direction and the −Y direction on the basis ofFIG.2A. The first auxiliary plate218may be combined with the third plate204through at least one of welding, a connection member (e.g., a screw, a clip, or a bolt and a nut), or an adhesive member (e.g., a bond or a tape) with the separated third plates204. Likewise, the fourth plate205may include a second auxiliary plate219. In an embodiment, the second auxiliary plate219may be integrated and formed with the fourth plate205. For example, the second auxiliary plate219may denote the central part of the fourth plate205extending in the Y axis direction inFIG.2A. The second auxiliary plate219may indicate a portion of the fourth plate205in which the wiring member163is disposed. Accordingly, the second auxiliary plate219may not be a component that is actually distinguished from the fourth plate205. In an embodiment, the second auxiliary plate219may be combined with the fourth plate205through separate coupling as a component separated from the fourth plate205. In this case, the fourth plate205may be separated and disposed at the ends of the electronic device100in the +Y direction and the −Y direction on the basis ofFIG.2A. The second auxiliary plate219may be formed separately from the fourth plate205, and may be combined with the fourth plate205through at least one of welding, a connection member (e.g., a screw, a clip, or a bolt and a nut), or an adhesive member (e.g., a bond or a tape).

According to various embodiments, the wiring member163may be disposed on the front surface of the third plate204and the fourth plate205. The wiring member163may be disposed in the central part of the electronic device100and disposed in a direction (e.g., the X axis direction inFIG.2A) that intersects the third plate204and the fourth plate205. For example, the wiring member163may be disposed in a direction (e.g., the X axis direction inFIG.2A) perpendicular to a folding axis (e.g., the Y axis direction inFIG.2A) of the folding area200-3. In an embodiment, the wiring member163may be supported by the third plate204and the fourth plate205. In an embodiment, the wiring member163may be supported by the first auxiliary plate218of the third plate204and the second auxiliary plate219of the fourth plate205.

According to various embodiments, the hinge cover211may be disposed between the first housing110and the second housing120, and may cover the hinge part206and form an external appearance of the electronic device100. The hinge cover211may be covered by the first housing110and the second housing120when a state of the electronic device100is the unfolded stage, and may be exposed to the outside when a state of the electronic device100is the folded state, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the hinge cover211may be always exposed to the outside. In an embodiment, the hinge cover211may have a shape corresponding to an arrangement shape of the hinge part206. For example, as the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2are disposed in the Y axis inFIG.2A, the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2may be provided in a form generally elongating in the Y axis direction. Some area of the inside of the hinge cover211may include a fixing part212for fixing the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2.

According to various embodiments, components of the electronic device100may be disposed in the electronic device100in a stack order, such as that illustrated inFIG.2A. For example, components of the electronic device100may be disposed in order of the display panel200, the first plate202and the second plate203supporting the display panel200, the third plate204and the fourth plate205combined with the first plate202, the second plate203, and the hinge part206so that the first plate202and the second plate203are rotated and moved, and the hinge cover211combined with the hinge part206and forming an external appearance of the electronic device100, from the +Z direction to the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.2A.

According to various embodiments, a front surface (e.g., a surface toward the +Z direction inFIG.2A) of the first plate202may be attached to the first area200-1of the display panel200through an adhesive member. The front surface of the second plate203may also be attached to the second area200-2of the display panel200through an adhesive member.

According to various embodiments, the third plate204and the fourth plate205may be combined with the hinge part206. One end (e.g., the +Y direction inFIG.2A) of the third plate204and the fourth plate205may be combined with the first hinge206-1. The other end (e.g., the −Y direction inFIG.2A) of the third plate204and the fourth plate205opposite to the one end may be combined with the second hinge206-2. The third plate204and the fourth plate205may be combined with the hinge part206using various methods. For example, the third plate204and the fourth plate205may be combined with the hinge part206through at least one of a connection member (e.g., a screw or a bolt and a nut), welding, a clip, a hook, or a tape.

According to various embodiments, the third plate204and the first plate202, and the fourth plate205and the second plate203may be connected using various methods.

In an embodiment, the third plate204may be directly combined with the first plate202. For example, at least a part of the third plate204may be attached and fixed to at least a part of the first plate202through an adhesive member. In addition, the third plate204may be combined with the first plate202using various methods, such as a screw, a clip, a tape, welding, and a rivet. Likewise, the fourth plate205may be directly combined with the second plate203. For example, at least a part of the fourth plate205may be attached and fixed to at least a part of the second plate203through an adhesive member. In addition, the fourth plate205may be directly combined with the second plate203using various methods, such as a screw, a clip, a tape, welding, and a rivet.

In an embodiment, the third plate204and the first plate202, and the fourth plate205and the second plate203may be indirectly connected. In this case, “indirectly connected” may refer, for example, to the third plate204and the first plate202, and the fourth plate205and the second plate203not being directly connected through at least one of adhesive members, but being connected through separate members between the third plate204and the first plate202and between the fourth plate205and the second plate203, respectively. For example, a buffering member315(refer toFIG.4D) may be disposed between the third plate204and the first plate202and between the fourth plate205and the second plate203. As the buffering member315is combined with the third plate204and the first plate202through an adhesive member, the third plate204and the first plate202may be indirectly connected. Likewise, as the buffering member315is combined with the fourth plate205and the second plate203through an adhesive member, the fourth plate205and the second plate203may be indirectly connected.

According to various embodiments, the first hinge206-1and the hinge cover211may be combined through a connection member (e.g., a screw, a clip, or a bolt and a nut). Furthermore, the second hinge206-2and the hinge cover211may also be combined through a connection member.

At least some of the aforementioned components may be omitted, and another component may be added. For example, an adhesive layer (not illustrated) may be further included between the display panel200, and the first plate202and the second plate203. A buffering member315(e.g., a buffering member315inFIG.4D) may be further included between the first plate202and the third plate204and between the second plate203and the fourth plate205.

FIG.3Ais a perspective view of the hinge part according to various embodiments.FIG.3Bis a diagram illustrating the third plate and the fourth plate combined with the hinge part according to various embodiments.FIG.3Cis a view illustrating a state in which a hinge is assembled to a pair of housings according to various embodiments;

The hinge part206described hereinafter may be included in the electronic device100(e.g., the electronic device100inFIG.1A) described with reference toFIGS.1A to1C. For example, the hinge part206may be included in the hinge164inFIG.1C. As described with reference toFIG.2A, the hinge part206may include a plurality of hinges (e.g., the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2), and may be combined with the third plate204and the fourth plate205. Hereinafter, for convenience sake, the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2are denoted and described as the hinge part206, but may be applied to any one of or both the first hinge206-1and the second hinge206-2.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.3A, the hinge part206may include a first bracket207-1, a second bracket207-2, a first shaft208, a second shaft209, a bearing body210, and a plurality of elastic members215. The hinge part206may be combined with another instrument through a bracket207. In this case, the bracket207may include the first bracket207-1disposed in a first housing110(e.g., the first housing110inFIG.1A) and the second bracket207-2disposed in a second housing120(e.g., the second housing120inFIG.1A). The hinge part206may be rotated and moved through the first shaft208and the second shaft209. Other instruments combined with the hinge part206may also be rotated through the first shaft208and the second shaft209.

According to an embodiment, the bearing body210may include a shaft hole (not illustrated) capable of accommodating the first shaft208and the second shaft209. The bearing body210may include at least one fixing hole217for fixing the hinge part206and a hinge cover211(e.g., the hinge cover165inFIG.1B). The inside wall of the fixing hole217may include a screw for fixing a fixing member214, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The fixing member214may be inserted through the fixing hole217, so the hinge cover211and the hinge part206may be connected. The bearing body210is described with reference to one reference numeral for convenience of description, but may be a component including a plurality of instruments. For example, the two shafts208and209may penetrate a plurality of instruments including the shaft hole and/or the fixing hole217and the elastic members215.

According to an embodiment, the elastic member215may be compressed or extended when the electronic device100is rotated and moved from the folded state to the unfolded stage and/or from the unfolded stage to the folded state, thereby assisting a user's manipulation force or providing a user with a feeling of manipulation. All of the plurality of elastic members215may be formed using the same material, or at least one of the plurality of elastic members215may be formed using a different material or at least one of the length, diameter and/or thickness thereof may be different. In this case, the elastic member215may include a spring. The aforementioned components of the hinge part206are merely an example, and at least one of the components may be omitted or at least one component may be added.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIGS.3B and3C, the third plate204, the fourth plate205, and the hinge part206may be combined with the housing110and120. According to an embodiment, the fixing hole217may be formed in the third plate204, the first bracket207-1, and the first housing110. A part of the third plate204may be combined with the first housing110along with the first bracket207-1through a fixing member214passing through the fixing hole217. Furthermore, another part of the third plate204may be combined with the first housing110through the fixing member214passing through the fixing hole217, without the first bracket207-1. In the same coupling manner, the fixing hole217may be formed in the fourth plate205, the second bracket207-2, and the second housing120. A part of the fourth plate205may be combined with the second housing120along with the second bracket207-2through the fixing member214passing through the fixing hole217. Furthermore, another part of the fourth plate205may be combined with the second housing120through the fixing member214passing through the fixing hole217, without the second bracket207-2. In this case, the fixing hole217may include a screw, but the fixing member214may be fastened to the fixing hole217not having a screw in some cases. In addition, the third plate204, the fourth plate205, and the hinge part206may be combined with the housing110and120through at least one of welding, a clip, a hook, or a tape.

According to various embodiments, the first housing110and the second housing120may be combined with the hinge part206, and may be rotated and moved through the first shaft208and second shaft209of the hinge part206. As the first housing110and the second housing120are rotated and moved, the third plate204combined with the first housing110and the fourth plate205combined with the second housing120may be rotated within a designated rotating range. As a display panel200(e.g., the display130inFIG.1A) is disposed in the housing110and120, a first plate202(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) may be disposed in the first housing110, and a second plate203(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) may be disposed in the second housing120. As the first housing110and the second housing120are rotated and moved, the first plate202and the second plate203may be rotated within a designated rotating range.

According to various embodiments, the third plate204and the fourth plate205may be formed using a material having given strength or more. For example, the third plate204and the fourth plate205may be formed using a metal material and/or a non-metal material. In this case, the metal material may include at least one of aluminum, stainless steel (STS), iron, magnesium, or titanium or an alloy thereof. The non-metal material may include synthetic resin, ceramics, or engineering plastic.

FIG.4Ais a partially enlarged diagram of the first plate and the second plate according to various embodiments.FIG.4Bis a partially enlarged diagram illustrating a state in which the third plate and the fourth plate are combined with the hinge part according to various embodiments.FIG.4Cis a partially enlarged diagram illustrating a structure stacked in order of the hinge part—the third plate and the fourth plate—the first plate and the second plate according to various embodiments.FIG.4Dis a cutaway cross-sectional view illustrating an example construction in which up to the third plate and the fourth plate have been stacked in the display panel along line A-A inFIG.4Caccording to various embodiments.FIG.4Eis a cutaway cross-sectional view illustrating an example construction in which up to the third plate and the fourth plate have been stacked in the display panel along line B-B inFIG.4Caccording to various embodiments.

With reference toFIGS.4A,4B,4C and4E, a display panel200(e.g., the display130inFIG.1A), a first plate202(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) and a second plate203(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C), the third plate204and the fourth plate205, and a hinge part206(e.g., the hinge164inFIG.1C) may be sequentially stacked in the electronic device100(e.g., the electronic device100inFIG.1A). The third plate204may be disposed in a −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.2Awith respect to the first plate202. The fourth plate205may be disposed in the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.2Awith respect to the second plate203. A detailed stack structure of the electronic device100is as follows.

According to various embodiments, the display panel200may include the support member201. The support member201may be attached to a rear surface (e.g., a surface toward the −Z direction inFIG.2A) of the display panel200through an adhesive member. Hereinafter, for convenience sake, the display panel200may be referred to as including the support member201. The first plate202may be disposed in the first area200-1(e.g., the first area131ainFIG.1A) of the display panel200. The first plate202may be fixed to the first area200-1through an adhesive member. The first plate202has substantially the same size as the first area200-1of the display panel200, but may have a size including the first area200-1and a part of a folding area200-3(e.g., the folding area131cinFIG.1A). The second plate203may be disposed in the second area200-2(e.g., the second area131binFIG.1A) of the display panel200. The second plate203may be fixed to the second area200-2through an adhesive member. The second plate203has substantially the same size as the second area200-2of the display panel200, but may have a size including the second area200-2and a part of the folding area200-3. The third plate204and the fourth plate205connected to the hinge part206may be disposed in the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.2Awith respect to the first plate202and the second plate203.

According to various embodiments, the buffering member315may be disposed between the first plate202and the third plate204and between the second plate203and the fourth plate205. In an embodiment, as illustrated inFIGS.4D and4E, the buffering member315may be fixed to the first plate202and the second plate203through an adhesive member. In an embodiment, the buffering member315may be fixed to the third plate204and the fourth plate205through an adhesive member. The buffering member315may absorb an impact occurring between the first plate202and the third plate204and between the second plate203and the fourth plate205. The buffering member315may be formed using various materials. For example, the buffering member315may be formed using at least one material of rubber, urethane, or silicon.

According to various embodiments, the buffering member315may indirectly connect the first plate202and the third plate204. The buffering member315may be disposed between the first plate202and the third plate204. One surface (e.g., a surface toward a +Z direction inFIG.4D) of the buffering member315toward the first plate202may be fixed to the first plate202through an adhesive member. The other surface (e.g., a surface toward a −Z direction inFIG.4D) of the buffering member315toward the third plate204may be fixed to the third plate204through an adhesive member. Accordingly, the first plate202and the third plate204may be indirectly connected through the buffering member315. Likewise, the buffering member315may indirectly connect the second plate203and the fourth plate205. The buffering member315may be disposed between the second plate203and the fourth plate205. One surface (e.g., the surface toward the +Z direction inFIG.4D) of the buffering member315toward the second plate203may be fixed to the second plate203through an adhesive member. The other surface (e.g., the surface toward the −Z direction inFIG.4D) of the buffering member315toward the fourth plate205may be fixed to the fourth plate205through an adhesive member. Accordingly, the second plate203and the fourth plate205may be indirectly connected through the buffering member315.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIGS.4C and4D, the first plate202and the second plate203may be fixed to the display panel200, and may be disposed in a first housing110(e.g., the first housing110inFIG.1A) and a second housing120(e.g., the second housing120inFIG.1A). Accordingly, a first interval L1(e.g., L1inFIG.4D) between one end of the first plate202and one end of the second plate203may be disposed in at least a part of a folding area200-3(e.g., the folding area131cinFIG.1A) of the display panel200. For example, an area of the folding area200-3that corresponds to the first interval L1may not be supported by the first plate202and/or the second plate203. In another example not illustrated, if another support structure is not present in the direction (e.g., the −Z direction inFIG.4D) of the rear surface of the area of the folding area200-3that corresponds to the first interval L1, when an external force (e.g., a force applied in the −Z direction inFIG.4D) is applied to the folding area200-3of the display panel200, the area of the folding area200-3that corresponds to the first interval L1may be damaged by the external force. According to various embodiments of the disclosure, at least some of the area of the folding area200-3that corresponds to the first interval L1may be supported by another instrument (e.g., the third plate204and/or the fourth plate205), thereby reducing damage to the display panel200. A structure capable of reducing damage to the display panel200through the third plate204and/or the fourth plate205is described in detail below.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.4A, a protrusion part and a depression part may be formed at one end of the first plate202and one end of the second plate203, respectively. A first protrusion part202-1may be formed in the first plate202. The first protrusion part202-1may refer, for example, to a portion protruding in an −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Aat one end of the first plate202. In an embodiment, the first protrusion part202-1may refer, for example, to a portion protruding in the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Awith respect to a second depression part202-2formed at one end of the first plate202to be described later.

According to various embodiments, a first depression part203-1may be formed in the second plate203in a way to correspond to the first protrusion part202-1. The first depression part203-1may refer, for example, to a portion depressed in the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Aat one end of the second plate203. In an embodiment, the first depression part203-1may refer, for example, to a portion depressed in the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Awith respect to a second protrusion part203-2formed at one end of the second plate203to be described later.

In an embodiment, the first protrusion part202-1and the first depression part203-1may form a given interval so that they do not come into contact with each other. For example, the first protrusion part202-1and the first depression part203-1may be spaced apart from each other at the first interval L1inFIG.4D.

According to various embodiments, the second depression part202-2may be formed in the first plate202. The second depression part202-2may refer, for example, to a portion depressed in a +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Aat one end of the first plate202. In an embodiment, the second depression part202-2may refer, for example, to a portion depressed in the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Awith respect to the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202.

According to various embodiments, the second protrusion part203-2may be formed in the second plate203in a way to correspond to the second depression part202-2. The second protrusion part203-2may refer, for example, to a portion protruding in the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Aat one end of the second plate203. In an embodiment, the second protrusion part203-2may refer, for example, to a portion protruding in the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Awith respect to the first depression part203-1of the second plate203.

In an embodiment, the second protrusion part203-2and the second depression part202-2may form a given interval so that they do not come into contact with each other. For example, the second protrusion part203-2and the second depression part202-2may be spaced apart from each other at the first interval L1inFIG.4D.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.4B, a protrusion part and a depression part may be formed at one end of the third plate204and one end of the fourth plate205, respectively. A third protrusion part204-1may be formed in the third plate204. The third protrusion part204-1may refer, for example, to a portion protruding in a −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Bat one end of the third plate204. In an embodiment, the third protrusion part204-1may refer, for example, to a portion protruding in the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Bwith respect to a fourth depression part204-2formed at one end of the third plate204to be described later.

According to various embodiments, a third depression part205-1may be formed in the fourth plate205in a way to correspond to the third protrusion part204-1. The third depression part205-1may refer, for example, to a portion depressed in the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Bat one end of the fourth plate205. In an embodiment, the third depression part205-1may refer, for example, to a portion depressed in the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Bwith respect to a fourth protrusion part205-2formed at one end of the fourth plate205to be described later.

In an embodiment, the third protrusion part204-1and the third depression part205-1may form a given interval so that they do not come into contact with each other. For example, the third protrusion part204-1and the third depression part205-1may be spaced apart from each other at a second interval L2inFIG.4D.

According to various embodiments, the fourth depression part204-2may be formed in the third plate204. The fourth depression part204-2may refer, for example, to a portion depressed in a +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Bat one end of the third plate204. In an embodiment, the fourth depression part204-2may refer, for example, to a portion depressed in the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Bwith respect to the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204.

According to various embodiments, the fourth protrusion part205-2may be formed in the fourth plate205in a way to correspond to the fourth depression part204-2. The fourth protrusion part205-2may refer, for example, to a portion protruding in the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Bat one end of the fourth plate205. In an embodiment, the fourth protrusion part205-2may refer, for example, to a portion protruding in the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Bwith respect to the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205.

In an embodiment, the fourth protrusion part205-2and the fourth depression part204-2may form a given interval so that they do not come into contact with each other. For example, the fourth protrusion part205-2and the fourth depression part204-2may be spaced apart from each other at the second interval L2inFIG.4D.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.4C, at least one of the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204, the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205, the fourth depression part204-2of the third plate204, and the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205may be disposed in the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.4Dbetween the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202and the first depression part203-1of the second plate203. According to an embodiment, the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204and/or the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205may be disposed between the first protrusion part202-1and the first depression part203-1. In an embodiment, the fourth depression part204-2of the third plate204and/or the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205may be disposed between the first protrusion part202-1and the first depression part203-1. Accordingly, when an external force is applied to the folding area200-3of the display panel200, an area that belongs to the folding area200-3of the display panel200and that corresponds to an area between the first protrusion part202-1and the first depression part203-1may be supported by at least one of the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204, the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205, the fourth depression part204-2of the third plate204, and the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205.

According to various embodiments, at least one of the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204, the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205, the fourth depression part204-2of the third plate204, and the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205may be disposed in the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.4Dbetween the second protrusion part203-2of the second plate203and the second depression part202-2of the first plate202. According to an embodiment, the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204and/or the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205may be disposed between the second protrusion part203-2and the second depression part202-2. In an embodiment, the fourth depression part204-2of the third plate204and/or the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205may be disposed between the second protrusion part203-2and the second depression part202-2. Accordingly, when an external force is applied to the folding area200-3of the display panel200, an area that belongs to the folding area200-3of the display panel200and that corresponds to an area between the second protrusion part203-2and the second depression part202-2may be supported by at least one of the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204, the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205, the fourth depression part204-2of the third plate204, and the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIGS.4D and4E, one end of the first plate202and one end of the second plate203may form a first interval L1. The first interval L1may refer, for example, to a distance in an X axis direction on the basis ofFIG.4D. The first interval L1may refer, for example, to a distance between the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202and the first depression part203-1of the second plate203and a distance between the second depression part202-2of the first plate202and the second protrusion part203-2of the second plate203. In an embodiment, the first interval L1may be constant. In an embodiment, the first interval L1may not be constant. For example, the interval between the first protrusion part202-1and the first depression part203-1and the interval between the second protrusion part203-2and the second depression part202-2may be different from each other.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIGS.4D and4E, one end of the third plate204and one end of the fourth plate205may form a second interval L2. The second interval L2may refer, for example, to a distance in the X axis direction on the basis ofFIG.4D. The second interval L2may refer, for example, to a distance between the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204and the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205and a distance between the fourth depression part204-2of the third plate204and the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205. In an embodiment, the second interval L2may be constant. In an embodiment, the second interval L2may not be constant. For example, the interval between the third protrusion part204-1and the third depression part205-1and the interval between the fourth protrusion part205-2and the fourth depression part204-2may be different from each other.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.4D, one end of the second plate203and one end of the third plate204may be spaced apart from each other at a third interval L3. The third interval L3may refer, for example, to a distance in the X axis direction on the basis ofFIG.4D. In an embodiment, the third interval L3may refer, for example, to a distance between the second protrusion part203-2of the second plate203and the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204. In an embodiment, the third interval L3may refer, for example, to a distance between the second protrusion part203-2of the second plate203and the fourth depression part204-2of the third plate204. The third interval L3may be greater than 0. For example, the third interval L3may be 0.1 mm or more. When the third interval L3is greater than 0, this may refer, for example, to the one end of the third plate204being disposed to protrude in a −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Dwith respect to the one end of the second plate203. This may refer, for example, to the one end of the second plate203being disposed to protrude in a +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Dwith respect to the one end of the third plate204, and may have the same meaning as that the one end of the second plate203and the one end of the third plate204disposed in the central part of the electronic device100are overlapped when the plates202,203,204, and205are viewed in the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.4D. According to such a structure, the third plate204can support the one end of the second plate203disposed in the central part of the electronic device100, thus preventing and/or reducing a phenomenon in which the one end of the second plate203droops in a −Z direction. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an area that belongs to the folding area200-3of the display panel200and that corresponds to the first interval L1, that is, the interval between the first plate202and the second plate203, may be supported by the third plate204.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.4E, one end of the first plate202and one end of the fourth plate205may be spaced apart from each other at a third interval L3. The third interval L3may refer, for example, to a distance in a X axis direction on the basis ofFIG.4E. In an embodiment, the third interval L3may refer, for example, to a distance between the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202and the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205. In an embodiment, the third interval L3may refer, for example, to a distance between the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202and the third depression part205-1of the fourth plate205. The third interval L3may be greater than 0. For example, the third interval L3may be 0.1 mm or more. When the third interval L3is greater than 0, this may refer, for example, to the one end of the fourth plate205being disposed to protrude in the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Ewith respect to the one end of the first plate202. This may have the same meaning as that the one end of the first plate202is disposed to protrude in the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4Ewith respect to the one end of the fourth plate205, and may have the same meaning as that the one end of the first plate202and the one end of the fourth plate205disposed in the central part of the electronic device100are overlapped when the plates202,203,204, and205are viewed in the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.4E. According to such a structure, the fourth plate205can support the one end of the first plate202disposed in the central part of the electronic device100, thus preventing and/or reducing a phenomenon in which the one end of the first plate202droops in a −Z direction. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an area that belongs to the folding area200-3of the display panel200and that corresponds to the first interval L1, that is, an interval between the first plate202and the second plate203, may be supported by the fourth plate205.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the third plate204may be disposed in the −Z direction inFIG.4Dwith respect to the first plate202. The fourth plate205may be disposed in the −Z direction inFIG.4Dwith respect to the second plate203. At least a part of at least one of the third plate204and the fourth plate205may be disposed either between the first protrusion part202-1and the first depression part203-1or between the second protrusion part203-2and the second depression part202-2. For example, at least one of the third protrusion part204-1and the fourth depression part204-2formed in the third plate204, and the third depression part205-1and the fourth protrusion part205-2formed in the fourth plate205may be disposed between the first plate202and the second plate203. Accordingly, when an external force is applied to the folding area200-3of the display panel200, an area that belongs to the folding area200-3and that corresponds to the interval L1between the first plate202and the second plate203can be supported by the third plate204and/or the fourth plate205, thus reducing damage to the display panel200.

All the aforementioned protrusion parts and depression parts may be relative concepts. For example, some of one ends of the plates202,203,204, and205may be protrusion parts, but other portions thereof may be depression parts. In an embodiment, a part of one end of the third plate204may be a depression part with respect to the third protrusion part204-1, but may correspond to a protrusion part with respect to the fourth depression part204-2. In still an embodiment, a part of one end of the fourth plate205may be a depression part with respect to the fourth protrusion part205-2, but may be a protrusion part with respect to the third depression part205-1.

FIG.5is a cutaway cross-sectional view of the first plate, the second plate, the hinge part, and the hinge cover along line A-A inFIG.4Caccording to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, a rotation radius R of a first plate202(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) to the fourth plate205may be increased as the protrusion part is formed in the first plate202to the fourth plate205. In an embodiment, when the first plate202to the fourth plate205are rotated, interference may occur between the protrusion part formed in the first plate202to the fourth plate205and a hinge part206(e.g., the hinge164inFIG.1C). Particularly, interference may occur between the protrusion part formed in the first plate202to the fourth plate205and the bearing body210of the hinge part206. Various embodiments of the disclosure may disclose various embodiments capable of preventing and/or reducing interference between the first protrusion part202-1to the fourth protrusion part205-2and the bearing body210under the rotation radius R of the first plate202to the fourth plate205. Such embodiments are described in greater detail below.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIG.5, an accommodation part213may be formed in the bearing body210of the hinge part206. In an embodiment, the accommodation part213may refer, for example, to a space formed in the bearing body210in order to prevent and/or reduce interference between at least one of the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202and the second protrusion part203-2of a second plate203(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) and the bearing body210, when a first housing110(e.g., the first housing110inFIG.1A) and a second housing120(e.g., the second housing120inFIG.1A) are rotated and moved through the hinge part206. The accommodation part213may be formed to have a sufficient size to the extent that the first protrusion part202-1and the second protrusion part203-2are prevented and/or reduced from interfering with the bearing body210when the first plate202and the second plate203are rotated.

In an embodiment not illustrated in the drawings, the accommodation part213may refer, for example, to a space formed in the bearing body210in order to prevent and/or reduce interference between at least one of the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204and the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205and the bearing body210, when the first housing110and the second housing120are rotated and moved through the hinge part206. The accommodation part213may be formed to have a sufficient size to the extent that the third protrusion part204-1and the fourth protrusion part205-2are prevented and/or reduced from interfering with the bearing body210when the third plate204and the fourth plate205are rotated.

FIG.6is a cutaway cross-sectional view of the third plate, the fourth plate, the hinge part, and the hinge cover along line B-B inFIG.4Caccording to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, a hinge part206(e.g., the hinge164inFIG.1C) may be combined with a hinge cover211(e.g., the hinge cover165inFIG.1B). For example, the fixing hole217including a screw may be formed in the fixing part212formed in the bearing body210of the hinge part206and the hinge cover211. The hinge part206and the hinge cover211may be combined through the fixing member214passing through the fixing hole217.

According to various embodiments, the rotation radius R of a first plate202(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) to the fourth plate205may vary depending on an interval between the plates202,203,204, and205. The rotation radius R of the first plate202to the fourth plate205may be increased as the first interval L1, that is, an interval between the first plate202and a second plate203(e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C), and/or the second interval L2, that is, an interval between the third plate204and the fourth plate205, is reduced. When the first interval L1and the second interval L2are reduced, a portion that supports a folding area200-3(e.g., the folding area131cinFIG.1A) of a display panel200(e.g., the display130inFIG.1A) may be increased. In an embodiment, the first interval L1and/or the second interval L2may be formed to have an interval of 0.5 mm or less.

According to various embodiments, as the first interval L1and/or the second interval L2are reduced, the rotation radius R may be increased. Accordingly, the first plate202to the fourth plate205may have interference with the fixing member214inserted into the fixing hole217of the fixing part212through the fixing hole217of the bearing body210. An embodiment of the disclosure may provide a structure capable of preventing and/or reducing interference between the first plate202to the fourth plate205and the fixing member214under the rotation radius R of the first plate202to the fourth plate205. Such an embodiment is described in detail below.

According to various embodiments, the fixing part212may be disposed in a +X direction or a −X direction on the basis ofFIG.6with respect to a central axis (e.g., an M-M axis inFIG.6) of the hinge cover211. Accordingly, the first protrusion part202-1to the fourth protrusion part205-2can avoid interference with the fixing part212or the fixing member214inserted into the fixing hole217of the fixing part212.

According to various embodiments, the fixing part212may be formed at a location of the hinge cover211, which does not interfere with the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202and the second protrusion part203-2of the second plate203.

In an embodiment not illustrated in the drawings, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed in the +X direction on the basis of the M-M axis, that is, the central axis of the hinge cover211illustrated inFIG.6, with respect to the second protrusion part203-2of the second plate203. For example, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed at a fourth interval L4in the +X direction inFIG.6on the basis of the M-M axis inFIG.6that passes through the center of the hinge cover211. In this case, the fourth interval L4may be, 0.8 mm or more.

In an embodiment not illustrated in the drawings, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed in a −X direction on the basis of the M-M axis inFIG.6with respect to the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202. For example, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed at the fourth interval L4in the −X direction on the basis of the M-M axis inFIG.6, which passes through the center of the hinge cover211. In this case, the fourth interval L4may be, for example, 0.8 mm or more.

According to an embodiment, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed in the same direction as a direction in which the first protrusion part202-1of the first plate202or the second protrusion part203-2of the second plate203protrudes. Accordingly, as the fixing part212is formed to be isolated from the first protrusion part202-1or the second protrusion part203-2, when the first plate202and the second plate203are rotated, interference between the fixing part212and/or the fixing member214combined with the fixing part212and the first protrusion part202-1and/or the second protrusion part203-2may not occur.

According to various embodiments, the fixing part212may be formed at a location that does not interfere with the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204and the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205.

With reference toFIG.6, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed in the +X direction on the basis of the M-M axis, that is, the central axis of the hinge cover211illustrated inFIG.6, with respect to the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205. The fixing part212may be isolated and formed at the fourth interval L4in the +X direction on the basis of the M-M axis inFIG.6, which passes through the center of the hinge cover211. In this case, the fourth interval L4may be, for example, 0.8 mm or more.

In an embodiment, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed in the −X direction on the basis of the M-M axis inFIG.6, with respect to the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204. For example, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed at the fourth interval L4in the −X direction on the basis of the M-M axis inFIG.6, which passes through the center of the hinge cover211. In this case, the fourth interval L4may be, for example, 0.8 mm or more.

According to an embodiment, the fixing part212may be isolated and formed in the same direction as a direction in which the third protrusion part204-1of the third plate204or the fourth protrusion part205-2of the fourth plate205protrudes. Accordingly, as the fixing part212is formed to be isolated from the third protrusion part204-1or the fourth protrusion part205-2, when the third plate204and the fourth plate205are rotated, interference between the fixing part212and/or the fixing member214combined with the fixing part212and the third protrusion part204-1and/or the fourth protrusion part205-2may not occur.

Furthermore, the aforementioned locations of the fixing part212are merely examples, and do not limit the location of the fixing part212as being fixed to the aforementioned locations. The location of the fixing part212may be variously changed within a range which may be practiced by those skilled in the art. For example, the location of the fixing part212may be formed in the central part of the hinge cover211.

FIG.7Ais an enlarged perspective view of a hinge part according to various embodiments.FIG.7Bis a cutaway cross-sectional view illustrating an example hinge part and a hinge cover along line C-C inFIG.7Aaccording to various embodiments.

Hereinafter, the embodiments ofFIGS.7A and7Bare embodiments different from the aforementioned embodiments, and may have the same or similar construction as the aforementioned embodiments except a method of a hinge cover211(e.g., the hinge cover165inFIG.1B) and a hinge part206(e.g., the hinge164inFIG.1C) being combined.

According to various embodiments, as illustrated inFIGS.7A and7B, a hook220may be formed in the hinge cover211. The hook220is fastened to a hook jaw216formed in the bearing body210of the hinge part206, so the hinge cover211and the hinge part206may be fixed without being separated from each other.

According to various embodiments, the hook220may be formed at various locations on the hinge cover211. In an embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.7B, the hook220may be formed in the central part of the hinge cover211. In an embodiment not illustrated, the hook220may be isolated and formed in a +X direction or −X direction on the basis of an M-M axis inFIG.7B, that is, the central axis of the hinge cover.

An electronic device (e.g., the electronic device100inFIG.1A) according to various example embodiments may include: a housing including a first housing (e.g., the first housing110inFIG.1A) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing120inFIG.1A), a hinge (e.g., the hinge164inFIG.1C) connecting the first housing and the second housing to be rotatable, a display module including a display panel (e.g., the display130inFIG.1A) including a first area (e.g., the first area131ainFIG.1A) disposed in the first housing, a second area (e.g., the second area131binFIG.1A) disposed in the second housing, and a folding area (e.g., the folding area131cinFIG.1A) disposed at the hinge, a first plate (e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) supporting the first area of the display panel, and a second plate (e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) supporting the second area of the display panel, a third plate disposed under (e.g., the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.2A) the first plate, and a fourth plate disposed under (e.g., the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.2A) the second plate. At least a part of at least one of the third plate and the fourth plate may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate to support at least some of the folding area of the display panel.

Furthermore, the first plate may include a first protrusion part formed in a first direction (e.g., the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4A) at one end of the first plate. The second plate may include the first depression part formed in the first direction corresponding to the first protrusion part at one end of the second plate facing the one end of the first plate. The first protrusion part and the first depression part may form a specified interval wherein the first protrusion part and the first depression part do not come into contact with each other.

Furthermore, the second plate includes the second protrusion part formed in a second direction (e.g., the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4A), opposite to the first direction at one end of the second plate. The first plate includes the second depression part formed in the second direction corresponding to the second protrusion part at the one end of the first plate facing the one end of the second plate. The second protrusion part and the second depression part form a specified interval wherein the second protrusion part and the second depression part do not come into contact with each other.

Furthermore, the first plate may include the first protrusion part formed in a first direction (e.g., the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.4A) and the second depression part formed in a second direction (e.g., the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.4A), opposite to the first direction. The second plate may include the first depression part formed in the first direction corresponding to the first protrusion part and the second protrusion part formed in the second direction corresponding to the second depression part. At least a part of at least one of the third plate and the fourth plate may be disposed at at least one of places between the first protrusion part and the first depression part and between the second protrusion part and the second depression part.

Furthermore, the first plate may include a first protrusion part formed in a first direction at one end of the first plate. The first protrusion part may protrude in the first direction with respect to one end of the fourth plate.

Furthermore, the second plate may include a second protrusion part formed in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, at one end of the second plate. The second protrusion part may protrude in the second direction with respect to one end of the third plate.

Furthermore, the third plate may include a third protrusion part formed in the first direction at one end of the third plate. The fourth plate may include a third depression part formed in the first direction corresponding to the third protrusion part at one end of the fourth plate facing the one end of the third plate. The third protrusion part and the third depression part may form a specified interval wherein the third protrusion part and the third depression part do not come into contact with each other.

Furthermore, the fourth plate may include a fourth protrusion part formed in the second direction at one end of the fourth plate. The third plate may include a fourth depression part formed in the second direction corresponding to the fourth protrusion part at the one end of the third plate facing the one end of the fourth plate. The fourth protrusion part and the fourth depression part may form a specified interval wherein the fourth protrusion part and the fourth depression part do not come into contact with each other.

Furthermore, at least one of the third protrusion part, the third depression part, the fourth protrusion part, and the fourth depression part may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate.

Furthermore, at least one of the third protrusion part, the third depression part, the fourth protrusion part, and the fourth depression part may be disposed at at least one of places between the first protrusion part and the first depression part and between the second protrusion part and the second depression part.

Furthermore, the third plate may include a third protrusion part formed in a first direction at one end of the third plate. The third protrusion part may protrude in the first direction with respect to one end of the second plate and may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate.

Furthermore, the third plate may include a third protrusion part formed in the first direction at one end of the third plate. The third protrusion part may protrude in the first direction with respect to the one end of the first protrusion part or the one end of the second protrusion part and may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate.

Furthermore, the fourth plate may include a fourth protrusion part formed in a second direction opposite to the first direction at one end of the fourth plate. The fourth protrusion part may protrude in the second direction with respect to the one end of the first plate and may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate.

Furthermore, the fourth plate may include a fourth protrusion part formed in the second direction opposite to the first direction at one end of the fourth plate. The fourth protrusion part may protrude in the second direction with respect to one end of the first protrusion part or one end of the second protrusion part and may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate.

Furthermore, the electronic device may further include a hinge cover (e.g., the hinge cover165inFIG.1B) having at least a part thereof forming an external appearance of the electronic device and combined with the hinge part.

Furthermore, the hinge may include an accommodation space configured to prevent and/or reduce interference with at least one of the first protrusion part and the second protrusion part based on the first housing and the second housing being rotated.

Furthermore, the hinge cover may include a fixing portion configured to receive a fastener passing through the hinge. The fixing portion may be isolated and formed in the first direction with respect to one end of the third protrusion part or isolated and formed in the second direction with respect to one end of the fourth protrusion part.

A hinge apparatus according to various example embodiments may include: a hinge (e.g., the hinge164inFIG.1C) connecting a first housing (e.g., the first housing110inFIG.1A) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing120inFIG.1A) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device100inFIG.1A) to be rotatable, a third plate disposed under (e.g., the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.2A) a first plate (e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) supporting a first area (e.g., the first area131ainFIG.1A) of a display panel (e.g., the display130inFIG.1A) of the electronic device and combined with the hinge, and a fourth plate disposed under (e.g., the −Z direction on the basis ofFIG.2A) a second plate (e.g., the plate132inFIG.1C) supporting a second area (e.g., the second area131binFIG.1A) of the display panel of the electronic device and combined with the hinge. At least a part of at least one of the third plate and the fourth plate may be disposed between the first plate and the second plate, and may support a folding area (e.g., the folding area131cinFIG.1A) of the display panel.

Furthermore, the third plate may include a first protrusion part (e.g., the third protrusion part204-1inFIG.3B) formed in a first direction (e.g., the −X direction on the basis ofFIG.3B) at one end of the third plate. The fourth plate may include a first depression part (e.g., the third depression part205-1inFIG.3B) formed in the first direction corresponding to the first protrusion part at one end of the fourth plate facing the one end of the third plate. The first protrusion part and the first depression part may form a specified interval wherein the first protrusion part and the first depression part do not come into contact with each other.

Furthermore, the fourth plate may include a second protrusion part (e.g., the fourth protrusion part205-2inFIG.3B) formed in a second direction (e.g., the +X direction on the basis ofFIG.3B), opposite to the first direction at the one end of the fourth plate. The third plate may include a second depression part (e.g., the fourth depression part204-2inFIG.3B) formed in the second direction corresponding to the second protrusion part at the one end of the third plate facing the one end of the fourth plate. The second protrusion part and the second depression part may form a specified interval wherein the second protrusion part and the second depression part do not come into contact with each other.

Furthermore, various example embodiments and drawings according to the disclosure have merely been presented as examples to describe technical contents according to the embodiments disclosed herein and to aid in understanding of the disclosure, but are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, various changes or modified forms may be made based on disclosure and should be understood as being included in the scope of the disclosure in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein. It will also be understood that any of the embodiment(s) described herein may be used in conjunction with any other embodiment(s) described herein.