Patent Description:
Electronic devices having various structures have been introduced. For example, an electronic device may be formed to have a bending structure or a folding structure. As another example, an electronic device may include a flip cover, a dual display, a flexible display, and the like.

An electronic device may provide mobile communication service using an antenna. The antenna of the electronic device may be arranged in a portion of area of the inside and/or outside of the housing.

The housing of a foldable electronic device may be in a folded state or in a flat state around a hinge structure. The outer peripheral side surface of the housing of the foldable electronic device may be made of a metallic material, and a part of the metallic material may be used as an antenna.

However, the partial side surface used as an antenna and another side surface made of a metallic material are brought close to each other in the folded state, and the resultant proximity may degrade the performance of the antenna of the foldable electronic device.

<CIT> discloses an electronic device including a housing and a connection part.

<CIT> discloses a foldable electronic device.

Various embodiments of the disclosure may provide a foldable electronic device capable of reducing degradation of performance of the antenna while the electronic device is in a folded state.

A portable communication device is provided according to claim <NUM>.

Various example embodiments may provide a foldable electronic device capable of reducing degradation of performance of the antenna while the electronic device is in a folded state.

Examples and technical descriptions of apparatuses, products and/or methods in the description and/or drawings which are not covered by the claims are presented not as embodiments of the invention but as background art or examples useful for understanding the invention.

<FIG> is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device <NUM> in a network environment <NUM> according to various examples. According to an example, the electronic device <NUM> may communicate with the electronic device <NUM> via the server <NUM>. According to an example, the electronic device <NUM> may include a processor <NUM>, memory <NUM>, an input device <NUM>, a sound output device <NUM>, a display device <NUM>, an audio module <NUM>, a sensor module <NUM>, an interface <NUM>, a haptic module <NUM>, a camera module <NUM>, a power management module <NUM>, a battery <NUM>, a communication module <NUM>, a subscriber identification module(SIM) <NUM>, or an antenna module <NUM>. In some examples, at least one (e.g., the display device <NUM> or the camera module <NUM>) of the components may be omitted from the electronic device <NUM>, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device <NUM>. In some examples, some of the components may be implemented as single integrated circuitry.

According to one example, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor <NUM> may load a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module <NUM> or the communication module <NUM>) in volatile memory <NUM>, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory <NUM>, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory <NUM>. According to an example, the processor <NUM> may include a main processor <NUM> (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), and an auxiliary processor <NUM> (e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor <NUM>.

According to an example, the auxiliary processor <NUM> (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module <NUM> or the communication module <NUM>) functionally related to the auxiliary processor <NUM>.

According to an example, the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.

According to an example, the display device <NUM> may include touch circuitry adapted to detect a touch, or sensor circuitry (e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

According to an example, the audio module <NUM> may obtain the sound via the input device <NUM>, or output the sound via the sound output device <NUM> or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device <NUM>) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device <NUM>.

According to an example, the sensor module <NUM> may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

According to an example, the interface <NUM> may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

According to an example, the connecting terminal <NUM> may include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

According to an example, the haptic module <NUM> may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

According to an example, the camera module <NUM> may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

According to one example, the power management module <NUM> may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

According to an example, the battery <NUM> may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

According to an example, the communication module <NUM> may include a wireless communication module <NUM> (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module <NUM> (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module).

According to an example, the antenna module <NUM> may include an antenna including a radiating element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., PCB). According to an example, the antenna module <NUM> may include a plurality of antennas. According to an example, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module <NUM>.

According to an example, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device <NUM> and the external electronic device <NUM> via the server <NUM> coupled with the second network <NUM>. According to an example, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic device <NUM> may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

A foldable electronic device (for example, and without limitation, the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) according to various example examples may include: a first housing (for example, the first housing structure <NUM> of <FIG>) including a first surface (for example, the first surface <NUM> of <FIG>), a second surface (for example, the second surface <NUM> of <FIG>) facing a direction opposite the first surface <NUM>, and a first side housing (for example, the first side housing <NUM> of <FIG>) surrounding at least a part of a first space between the first surface <NUM> and the second surface <NUM>; a second housing (for example, the second housing structure <NUM> of <FIG>) including a third surface (for example, the third surface <NUM> of <FIG>) facing the first surface <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> in a folded state of the foldable electronic device <NUM>, a fourth surface (for example, the fourth surface <NUM> of <FIG>) facing in a direction opposite the third surface <NUM>, and a second side housing (for example, the second side housing <NUM> of <FIG>) surrounding at least a part of a second space between the third surface <NUM> and the fourth surface <NUM>; a hinge (for example, the hinge structure <NUM> of <FIG>) arranged between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> and defining a folding axis (axis A); a flexible display (for example, the display <NUM> of <FIG>) exposed through the first surface <NUM> and the third surface <NUM>; and a communication circuit (for example, the communication module <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed in the first space and/or the second space. Each of the first side housing <NUM> and the second side housing <NUM> may include a conductive portion. At least a part of the conductive portion of the first side housing <NUM> may be electrically connected to the communication circuit. A corner portion of the first surface <NUM> parallel with the folding axis (axis A) may include a first protruding portion (for example, the first protruding portion <NUM> of <FIG>). A corner portion of the third surface <NUM> parallel with the folding axis (axis A) may include a second protruding portion (for example, the second protruding portion <NUM> of <FIG>) which is configured to contact the first protruding portion <NUM> in the folded state of the foldable electronic device <NUM>. The first side housing <NUM> may include a first side surface 343a parallel to the folding axis (axis A), a second side surface 343b connected to one side of the first side surface 343a, and perpendicular to the folding axis (axis A), and a third side surface 343c connected to the other side of the first side surface 343a, and parallel to the second side surface 343b. The second side housing <NUM> may include a fourth side surface 353a parallel to the folding axis (axis A), a fifth side surface 353b connected to one side of the fourth side surface 353a, and arranged to be adjacent to the second side surface 343b in the folded state of the foldable electronic device <NUM>, and a sixth side surface 353c connected to the other side of the fourth side surface 353a, and arranged to be adjacent to the third side surface 343c in the folded state of the foldable electronic device. At least a partial conductive portion of the conductive portion arranged on the second side surface 343b and the third side surface 343c may be electrically connected to the communication circuit.

When the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may contact each other such that the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b are spaced apart from each other, and the third side surface 343c and the sixth side surface 353c are spaced apart from each other. Each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may include a conductive portion. Each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may include a nonconductive portion. The first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may have mutually symmetric shapes with reference to the folding axis (axis A).

When the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b may be spaced apart from each other by an interval of <NUM>-<NUM>. Corner portions of the first surface <NUM>, which are adjacent to the second side surface 343b and the third side surface 343c, may be made of a low-permittivity material <NUM>, the specific permittivity of which is lower than <NUM>. Corner portions of the third surface <NUM>, which are adjacent to the fifth side surface 353b and the sixth side surface 353c, may be made of the low-permittivity material <NUM>. The low-permittivity material <NUM> may include, for example, and without limitation, an injection-molded material, or the like. The foldable electronic device may further include: a processor disposed in the first space and/or the second space and operatively connected to the communication circuit; and a memory disposed in the first space and/or the second space, operatively connected to the processor, and configured to store multiple application programs. The memory may store instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to receive an external signal through the communication circuit when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, to output a notification in response to reception of the external signal, and to provide a communication function while the foldable electronic device <NUM> remains in the folded state in response to receiving a designated input (e.g., from the user). The communication function may include, for example, and without limitation, a speech function.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a flat state according to an example. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a folded state according to an example.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, according to an example, the electronic device <NUM> may include a foldable housing <NUM>, a hinge cover <NUM> covering a foldable portion of the foldable housing, and a flexible or foldable display <NUM> (hereinafter, simply referred to as a "display <NUM>") arranged in a space formed by the foldable housing <NUM>. In this disclosure, the surface on which the display <NUM> is arranged may, for example, be referred to as the front surface of the electronic device <NUM>. In addition, the opposite surface of the front surface may, for example, be referred to as the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM>. Furthermore, a surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the rear surface may, for example, be referred to as a side surface of the electronic device <NUM>.

In an example, the foldable housing <NUM> may include a first housing structure <NUM>, a second housing structure <NUM> (the term "housing structure" may be used interchangeably with the term "housing" throughout the disclosure) including a sensor area <NUM>, a first rear cover <NUM>, and a second rear cover <NUM>. The foldable housing <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> is not limited to the type and coupling illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, and may be implemented by a combination and/or coupling of other shapes or components. For example, in another example, the first housing <NUM> and the first rear cover <NUM> may be formed integrally, and the second housing <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> may be formed integrally.

In the illustrated example, the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be arranged on both sides around the folding axis (axis A), and may have shapes that are symmetric overall with regard to the folding axis (axis A). As will be described later, the angle or distance between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may vary depending on whether the electronic device <NUM> is in a flat state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. In the illustrated example, the second housing structure <NUM> additionally includes the sensor area <NUM> in which various sensors are arranged, unlike the first housing structure <NUM>, but may have mutually symmetric shapes in the other areas.

In an example, the first housing structure <NUM> may include a first surface <NUM> arranged to face the front surface of the electronic device <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the flat state, a second surface <NUM> arranged to face in the opposite direction to the first surface <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the flat state, and a first side housing <NUM> surrounding at least a part of the first space between the first surface <NUM> and the second surface <NUM>.

In an example, the second housing structure <NUM> may include a third surface <NUM> arranged to face the front surface of the electronic device <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the flat state, a fourth surface <NUM> arranged to face in the opposite direction to the third surface <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the flat state, and a second side housing <NUM> surrounding at least a part of the second space between the third surface <NUM> and the fourth surface <NUM>. In an example, the third surface <NUM> may face the first surface <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state.

In an example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may together form a recess in which the display <NUM> is contained. In the illustrated example, due to the sensor area <NUM>, the recess may have at least two different widths in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis (axis A).

For example, the recess may have a first width w1 between the first portion 310a of the first housing structure <NUM>, which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A), and the first portion 320a of the second housing structure <NUM>, which is formed on the periphery of the sensor area <NUM>, and a second width w2 formed by the second portion 310b of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second portion 320b of the second housing structure <NUM>, which does not correspond to the sensor area <NUM>, and which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A).

In this case, the second width w2 may be formed to be larger than the first width w1. In other words, the first portion 310a of the first housing structure <NUM> and the first portion 320a of the second housing structure <NUM>, which have mutually asymmetric shapes, may form the first width w1 of the recess, and the second portion 310b of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second portion 320b of the second housing structure <NUM>, which have mutually symmetric shapes, may form the second width w2 of the recess. In an example, the first portion 320a and the second portion 320b of the second housing structure <NUM> may have different distances from the folding axis (axis A). The width of the recess is not limited to the illustrated example. In various examples, the recess may have multiple widths depending on the type of the sensor area <NUM> or as the result of asymmetrically shaped portions of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM>.

In an example, at least a part of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be made of a metallic material and/or a nonmetallic material having a magnitude of rigidity selected to support the display <NUM>.

In an example, the sensor area <NUM> may be formed to have a predetermined area adjacent to a corner of the second housing structure <NUM>. However, the arrangement, shape, and size of the sensor area <NUM> are not limited to the illustrated example. For example, in another example, the sensor area <NUM> may be provided in a specific area between another corner of the second housing structure <NUM> or the upper-end corner thereof and the lower-end corner thereof. In an example, components embedded in the electronic device <NUM> to perform various functions may, for example, and without limitation, be exposed to the front surface of the electronic device <NUM> through the sensor area <NUM>, through at least one opening provided in the sensor area <NUM>, or the like. In various examples, the components may include various kinds of sensors. The sensors may include, for example, at least one of a front camera, a receiver, or a proximity sensor.

The first rear cover <NUM> may be arranged on one side of the folding axis on the rear surface of the electronic device and may have a substantially rectangular periphery, and the periphery may be surrounded by the first housing structure <NUM>. Similarly, the second rear cover <NUM> may be arranged on the other side of the folding axis on the rear surface of the electronic device, and the periphery of the second rear cover <NUM> may be surrounded by the second housing structure <NUM>. For example, the first rear cover <NUM> may be arranged on the second surface <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM>, and the second rear cover <NUM> may be arranged on the fourth surface <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, the first rear cover <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> may have substantially symmetrical shapes around the folding axis (axis A). However, the first rear cover <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> do not always have mutually symmetrical shapes, and, in another example, the electronic device <NUM> may include a first rear cover <NUM> and a second rear cover <NUM> which have various shapes. In another example, the first rear cover <NUM> may be formed integrally with the first housing structure <NUM>, and the second rear cover <NUM> may be formed integrally with the second housing structure <NUM>.

In an example, the first rear cover <NUM>, the second rear cover <NUM>, the first housing structure <NUM>, and the second housing structure <NUM> may form a space in which various components (for example, a printed circuit board or a battery) of the electronic device <NUM> may be arranged. In an example, at least one component may be arranged on the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM> or may be visually exposed thereto. For example, at least a part of a sub display <NUM> may be visually exposed through the first rear area <NUM> of the first rear cover <NUM>. In another example, at least one component or sensor may be visually exposed through the second rear area <NUM> of the second rear cover <NUM>. In various examples, the sensor may include a proximity sensor and/or a rear camera.

Referring to <FIG>, the hinge cover <NUM> may be arranged between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM>, and may be configured to cover an internal component (for example, a hinge structure or hinge). In an example, the hinge cover <NUM> may be covered by parts of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM>, or may be exposed to the outside depending on the state (flat state or folded state) of the electronic device <NUM>.

For example, when the electronic device <NUM> is in a flat state as illustrated in <FIG>, the hinge cover <NUM> may be covered by the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> such that the hinge cover <NUM> is not exposed. For example, when the electronic device <NUM> is in a folded state (for example, a fully folded state) as illustrated in <FIG>, the hinge cover <NUM> may be exposed to the outside between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM>. For example, in the case of an intermediate state in which the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> are folded with a certain angle, the hinge cover <NUM> may be partially exposed to the outside between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM>. In this case, the exposed area may be smaller than in the fully folded state. In an example, the hinge cover <NUM> may include a curved surface.

The display <NUM> may be arranged in a space formed by the foldable housing <NUM>. For example, the display <NUM> may be seated on a recess formed by the foldable housing <NUM> of most of the front surface of the electronic device <NUM>.

Accordingly, the front surface of the electronic device <NUM> may include a display <NUM>, a partial area of the first housing structure <NUM> adjacent to the display <NUM>, and a partial area of the second housing structure <NUM>. The rear surface of the electronic device <NUM> may include a first rear cover <NUM>, a partial area of the first housing structure <NUM> adjacent to the first rear cover <NUM>, a second rear cover <NUM>, and a partial area of the second housing structure <NUM> adjacent to the second rear cover <NUM>.

The display <NUM> may be a display, at least a partial area of which may be deformed into a flat surface and/or a curved surface. In an example, the display <NUM> may include a folding area <NUM>, a first area <NUM> arranged on one side with reference to the folding area <NUM> (for example, on the left side of the folding area <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>), and a second area <NUM> arranged on the other side (for example, on the right side of the folding area <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>). For example, the first area <NUM> may be arranged on the first surface <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM>, and the second area <NUM> may be arranged on the third surface <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM>.

The area division of the display <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> is merely an example, and the display <NUM> may also be divided into multiple (for example, at least four or two) areas depending on the structure or function thereof. For example, the area of the display <NUM> may be divided by a folding area <NUM> extending in parallel with the y-axis or by the folding axis (axis A) in the example illustrated in <FIG>, but the area of the display <NUM> may also be divided with reference to a different folding area (for example, a folding area parallel with the x-axis) or by a different folding axis (for example, a folding axis parallel with the x-axis) in another example.

The first area <NUM> and the second area <NUM> may have shapes that are symmetric overall around the folding area <NUM>. Unlike the first area <NUM>, the second area <NUM> may include a notch that has been cut depending on whether or not the sensor area <NUM> is present, but may have a shape symmetric with that of the first area <NUM> in other areas. In other words, the first area <NUM> and the second area <NUM> may include portions having mutually symmetric shapes and portions having mutually asymmetric shapes.

Hereinafter, the operation of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> depending on the state (for example, flat state or folded state) of the electronic device <NUM> and respective areas of the display <NUM> will be described.

In an example, when the electronic device <NUM> is in a flat state (for example, the state illustrated in <FIG>), the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be arranged to face in the same direction with an angle of <NUM>° formed therebetween. The surface of the first area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> thereof may face in the same direction (for example, toward the front surface of the electronic device) with an angle of <NUM>° formed therebetween. The folding area <NUM> may form the same plane with the first area <NUM> and the second area <NUM>.

In an example, when the electronic device <NUM> is in a folded state (for example, <FIG>), the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be arranged to face each other. The surface of the first area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> thereof may face each other with a small angle (for example, and without limitation, <NUM>-<NUM>°) formed therebetween. At least a part of the folding area <NUM> may be configured as a curved surface having a predetermined curvature.

In an example, when the electronic device <NUM> is in an intermediate state, the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be arranged at a certain angle relative to each other. The surface of the first area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> thereof may form therebetween an angle that is larger than the angle in the folded state and smaller than the angle in the flat state. At least a part of the folding area <NUM> may be configured as a curved surface having a predetermined curvature. The curvature in this case may be smaller than the curvature in the folded state.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example electronic device according to an example.

Referring to <FIG>, in an example, the electronic device <NUM> may include a display unit (e.g., including a display) <NUM>, a bracket assembly (e.g., including a bracket) <NUM>, a substrate unit (e.g., including a substrate) <NUM>, a first housing structure (e.g., a first housing) <NUM>, a second housing structure (e.g., a second housing) <NUM>, a first rear cover <NUM>, and a second rear cover <NUM>. In this disclosure, the display unit <NUM> may be referred to as a display module, a display assembly, a display, or the like.

The display unit <NUM> may include a display <NUM> and at least one plate or layer <NUM> on which the display <NUM> is seated. In an example, a plate <NUM> may be arranged between the display <NUM> and the bracket assembly <NUM>. The display <NUM> may be arranged on at least a part of a surface of the plate <NUM> (for example, the upper surface with reference to <FIG>). The plate <NUM> may be formed in a shape corresponding to that of the display <NUM>. For example, the plate <NUM> may have a partial area formed in a shape corresponding to a notch <NUM> in the display <NUM>.

The bracket assembly <NUM> may include a first bracket <NUM>, a second bracket <NUM>, a hinge structure <NUM> arranged between the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM>, a hinge cover <NUM> which covers the hinge structure <NUM> when seen from outside, and a wire member <NUM> (for example, a flexible printed circuit (FPC)) extending across the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM>.

In an example, the bracket assembly <NUM> may be arranged between the plate <NUM> and the substrate unit <NUM>. For example, the first bracket <NUM> may be arranged between the first area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and the first substrate <NUM>. The second bracket <NUM> may be arranged between the second area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and the second substrate <NUM>.

In an example, at least a part of the wire member <NUM> and the hinge structure <NUM> may be arranged inside the bracket assembly <NUM>. The wire member <NUM> may be arranged in a direction (for example, the x-axis direction) across the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM>. The wire member <NUM> may be arranged in a direction (for example, the x-axis direction) perpendicular to the folding axis (for example, the y-axis or the folding axis (A) of <FIG>) of the folding area <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>. In an example, the hinge structure <NUM> may be arranged between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> to form (e.g., define) a folding axis (for example, the y-axis or the folding axis (A) of <FIG>).

The substrate unit <NUM> may include, as mentioned above, a first substrate <NUM> arranged near the first bracket <NUM> and a second substrate <NUM> arranged near the second bracket <NUM>. The first substrate <NUM> and the second substrate <NUM> may be arranged inside a space formed by the bracket assembly <NUM>, the first housing structure <NUM>, the second housing structure <NUM>, the first rear cover <NUM>, and the second rear cover <NUM>. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device <NUM> may be mounted on the first substrate <NUM> and the second substrate <NUM>.

The first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be assembled to be coupled to both sides of the bracket assembly <NUM>, respectively, while the display unit <NUM> remains coupled to the bracket assembly <NUM>. As will be described later, the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may slide along both sides of the bracket assembly <NUM>, respectively, so as to be coupled to the bracket assembly <NUM>.

In an example, the first housing structure <NUM> may include a first rotating support surface <NUM>, and the second housing structure <NUM> may include a second rotating support surface <NUM> corresponding to the first rotating support surface <NUM>. The first rotating support surface <NUM> and the second rotating support surface <NUM> may include a curved surface corresponding to a curved surface included in the hinge cover <NUM>.

In an example, when the electronic device <NUM> is in a flat state (for example, the electronic device of <FIG>), the first rotating support surface <NUM> and the second rotating support surface <NUM> may cover the hinge cover <NUM> such that the hinge cover <NUM> is not exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM>, or is exposed to a lesser extent. Meanwhile, when the electronic device <NUM> is in a folded state (for example, the electronic device of <FIG>), the first rotating support surface <NUM> and the second rotating support surface <NUM> may rotate along the curved surface included in the hinge cover <NUM> such that the hinge cover <NUM> is exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM> to the largest extent.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a first side housing and a second side housing of an example electronic device in a flat state according to an example.

The electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> is substantially identical or similar to the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, except for the elements described below, and the same elements are given the same reference numerals.

Referring to <FIG>, an electronic device <NUM> according to an example may include a first housing structure <NUM> and a second housing structure <NUM> arranged on both sides with reference to a hinge structure <NUM> that defines a folding axis A. In an example, a mechanism referred to as a first side housing <NUM> may be arranged on a side surface of the first housing structure <NUM>, and a mechanism referred to as a second side housing <NUM> may be arranged on a side surface of the second housing structure <NUM>.

In an example, the first side housing <NUM> may include a first side surface 343a which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A); a second side surface 343b which is connected to one side of the first side surface 343a (for example, the lower side of the first side surface 343a illustrated in <FIG>), and which is perpendicular to the folding axis (axis A); and a third side surface 343c which is connected to the other side of the first side surface 343a (for example, the upper side of the first side surface 343a illustrated in <FIG>), and which is parallel with the second side surface 343b. In an example, the second side housing <NUM> may include a fourth side surface 353a which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A); a fifth side surface 353b which is connected to one side of the fourth side surface 353a (for example, the lower side of the fourth side surface 353a illustrated in <FIG>), and which is arranged adjacent to the second side surface 343b when the electronic device <NUM> is in a folded state; and a sixth side surface 353c which is connected to the other side of the fourth side surface353a (for example, the upper side of the fourth side surface 353a illustrated in <FIG>), and which is arranged adjacent to the third side surface 343c when the electronic device <NUM> is in a folded state.

In an example, each of the first side housing <NUM> and the second side housing <NUM> may include a conductive portion. For example, the first side housing <NUM> may include a metallic material except for a part of the second side surface 343b and a part of the third side surface 343c. The second side housing <NUM> may include a metallic material except for a part of the fifth side surface 353b and a part of the sixth side surface 353c.

In an example, the second side surface 343b may include multiple conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> and at least one nonconductive portion <NUM> and <NUM> arranged between the multiple conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. For example, the second side surface 343b may include a first conductive portion <NUM>, a second conductive portion <NUM> arranged on one side of the first conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the left side of the first conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); a third conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the other side of the first conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the right side of the first conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); a first nonconductive portion <NUM> arranged between the first conductive portion <NUM> and the second conductive portion <NUM>; and a second nonconductive portion <NUM> arranged between the first conductive portion <NUM> and the third conductive portion <NUM>. Similarly, the third side surface 343c may include a first conductive portion <NUM>, a second conductive portion <NUM> arranged on one side of the first conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the left side of the first conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); a third conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the other side of the first conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the right side of the first conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); a first nonconductive portion <NUM> arranged between the first conductive portion <NUM> and the second conductive portion <NUM>; and a second nonconductive portion <NUM> arranged between the first conductive portion <NUM> and the third conductive portion <NUM>. In an example, the conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of the second side surface 343b and the conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of the third side surface 343c may have mutually symmetric shapes around a horizontal axis which extends across the center of the folding axis (axis A), and which is perpendicular to the folding axis (axis A) (for example, an axis which is parallel with the x-axis, and which extends across the center of the folding axis (axis A)).

In an example, the fifth side surface 353b may include multiple conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> and at least one nonconductive portions <NUM> and <NUM> arranged between the multiple conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. For example, the fifth side surface 353b may include a fourth conductive portion <NUM>; a fifth conductive portion <NUM> arranged on one side of the fourth conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the left side of the fourth conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); a sixth conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the other side of the fourth conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the right side of the fourth conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); a third nonconductive portion <NUM> arranged between the fourth conductive portion <NUM> and the fifth conductive portion <NUM>; and a fourth nonconductive portion <NUM> arranged between the fourth conductive portion <NUM> and the sixth conductive portion <NUM>. Similarly, the sixth side surface 353c may include a fourth conductive portion <NUM>; a fifth conductive portion <NUM> arranged on one side of the fourth conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the left side of the fourth conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); a sixth conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the other side of the fourth conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the right side of the fourth conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); a third nonconductive portion <NUM> arranged between the fourth conductive portion <NUM> and the fifth conductive portion <NUM>; and a fourth nonconductive portion <NUM> arranged between the fourth conductive portion <NUM> and the sixth conductive portion <NUM>. In an example, the conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of the fifth side surface 353b and the conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of the sixth side surface 353c may have mutually symmetric shapes around a horizontal axis (axis B) which extends across the center of the folding axis (axis A), and which is perpendicular to the folding axis (axis A) (for example, an axis which is parallel with the x-axis, and which extends across the center of the folding axis (axis A)).

In an example, each of the first conductive portion <NUM>, the second conductive portion <NUM>, and the third conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the second side surface 343b and/or the third side surface 343c may be a radiator (for example, an antenna) which radiates RF signals output from a communication module (for example, the communication module <NUM> of <FIG>).

In an example, the RF signals output from the communication module <NUM> may include first to third RF signals. According to an example, the first RF signal may be a signal related to a low-frequency band, and the second RF signal and/or the third RF signal may be a signal related to a medium-frequency band or a high-frequency band. For example, the first RF signal may be a frequency for communication in a low band or mid-band (a low band of about <NUM> or a mid-band of about <NUM>), and the second RF signal and/or the third RF signal may be a frequency for communication in a high band or an ultra-high band (a high band of about <NUM> or an ultra-high band of about <NUM>). According to some examples, the second RF signal may be a signal for Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication in an ISM band of <NUM> or <NUM>.

In an example, the first conductive portion <NUM> may be a first antenna ANT #<NUM> for resonating a first RF signal output from the communication module <NUM>; the second conductive portion <NUM> may be a second antenna ANT #<NUM> for resonating a second RF signal output from the communication module <NUM>; and the third conductive portion <NUM> may be a third antenna ANT #<NUM> for resonating a third RF signal output from the communication module <NUM>. In an example, each of the first conductive portion <NUM>, the second conductive portion <NUM>, and the third conductive portion <NUM> may be formed as a planar inverted F antenna (PIFA)-type antenna, and may be electrically connected to at least one feeding <NUM> formed on a printed circuit board (not illustrated) and to at least one ground <NUM>. In <FIG> and <FIG>the feedings may be labeled "F" and the grounds may be labeled "G".

In an example, the first side surface 343a may include a seventh conductive portion <NUM>, and a part 571a of either side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> may be used as an antenna. For example, a part of one side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the lower side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>) may be connected to the second conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the second side surface 343b and used as a second antenna ANT#<NUM>. Similarly, a part of the other side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the upper side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>) may be connected to the second conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the third side surface 343c and used as a second antenna ANT#<NUM>.

In an example, the other portion of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> than the two side portions 571a, that is, the center portion 571b, is not used as an antenna. For example, portions 571a of the seventh conductive portion <NUM>, which are adjacent to both peripheries, respectively, may be electrically connected to the ground <NUM>; and, with reference to the points <NUM> and <NUM> of connection to the ground <NUM>, the seventh conductive portion <NUM> may be divided into portions 571a used as antennas and a portion 571b not used as an antenna. As another example, the seventh conductive portion <NUM> may be connected to the ground <NUM> at a first point <NUM> adjacent to the periphery of one side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the lower side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>) and may be connected to the ground <NUM> at a second point <NUM> adjacent to the periphery of the other side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> (for example, the upper side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>); and the portion 571b between the first point <NUM> and the second point <NUM> may not be used as an antenna.

In an example, when viewed from the front of the electronic device <NUM> (when seen from above the display of the electronic device <NUM>), the width of each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may be substantially identical to the width w3 of the first side housing <NUM> or the width w4 of the second side housing <NUM>. For example, when viewed from the front of the electronic device <NUM>, there may be arranged, on the front surface of the electronic device <NUM>, a display <NUM>, a first side housing <NUM> surrounding a part of the display <NUM>, and a second side housing <NUM> surrounding another part of the display <NUM>; and the width w3 of the first side housing <NUM> and the width w4 of the second side housing <NUM> may be constant.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating the electronic device illustrated in <FIG> in a folded state.

Referring to <FIG>, in an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> includes a first housing structure <NUM> including a first surface <NUM>, a second surface <NUM> facing in the opposite direction to the first surface <NUM>, and a first side housing <NUM> surrounding at least a part of a first space between the first surface <NUM> and the second surface <NUM>; a second housing structure <NUM> including a third surface <NUM> which faces the first surface <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, a fourth surface <NUM> facing in the opposite direction to the third surface <NUM>, and a second side housing <NUM> surrounding at least a part of a second space between the third surface <NUM> and the fourth surface <NUM>; and a hinge structure <NUM> arranged between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> and defining a folding axis (axis A).

In an embodiment, a first protruding portion <NUM> may be formed on a corner portion of the first surface <NUM>, which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A), and a second protruding portion <NUM> may be formed on a corner portion of the third surface <NUM>, which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A), so as to contact the first protruding portion <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state. For example, the first protruding portion <NUM> may be formed adjacent to a portion 571b of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the first side surface 343a, which is not used as an antenna, such as the portion <NUM> indicated by the dotted lines in <FIG>. As another example, the first protruding portion <NUM> may be arranged to overlap with a part 571b of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> when viewed from the front of the electronic device <NUM> (when seen from above the display of the electronic device <NUM>), and the overlapping part of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> may be a portion 571b not used as an antenna. Similarly, the second protruding portion <NUM> may be formed adjacent to the conductive portion <NUM> of the fourth side surface 353a, such as the other portion <NUM> indicated by the dotted lines in <FIG>. As another example, the second protruding portion <NUM> may be arranged to overlap with a part of the conductive portion <NUM> of the fourth side surface 353a when viewed from the front of the electronic device <NUM> (when seen from above the display of the electronic device <NUM>).

In an embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may contact each other such that the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b are spaced apart from each other, and the third side surface 343c and the sixth side surface 353c are spaced apart from each other. In an embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may contact each other such that a gap G is formed between the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b, and a gap is similarly formed between the third side surface 343c and the sixth side surface 353c.

In an embodiment, each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may be made of a metallic material. For example, each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may include a conductive portion. In an embodiment, the conductive portion of each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may be made of the same material as that of the conductive portion of each of the first side housing <NUM> and the second side housing <NUM>.

In an embodiment, each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may include a nonmetallic material. For example, each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may include a nonconductive portion. In an embodiment, the nonconductive portion of each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may be made of the same material as the nonconductive portion of each of the first side housing <NUM> and the second side housing <NUM>. For example, at least a part of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may be made of a nonconductive injection-molded material.

In an embodiment, the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may have mutually symmetric shapes with reference to the folding axis (axis A). In various embodiments, the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> do not necessary have mutually symmetric shapes, and the length, shape, width, thickness, or structure of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may be variously modified.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may contact each other such that the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b (or the third side surface 343c and the sixth side surface 353c) are spaced apart from each other by an interval of, for example, and without limitation, <NUM>-<NUM>. For example, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may contact each other such that a gap corresponding to an interval of, for example, at least <NUM>-<NUM> may be formed between the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b (or the third side surface 343c and the sixth side surface 353c).

An electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may be configured such that, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b are spaced apart from each other, thereby reducing degradation of performance of the antenna arranged on the second side surface 343b (or the third side surface 343c). An electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may be configured such that the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b (or the third side surface 343c and the sixth side surface 353c) are spaced from each other by an interval of, for example, <NUM>-<NUM>, thereby reducing degradation of performance of the antenna arranged on the second side surface 343b (or the third side surface 343c). For example, an electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may be configured such that the antenna performance in the flat state and the antenna performance in the folded state are identical.

A foldable electronic device (for example, the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) according to various examples may include: a first housing (for example, the first housing structure <NUM> of <FIG>) including a first surface (for example, the first surface <NUM> of <FIG>), a second surface (for example, the second surface <NUM> of <FIG>) facing in the opposite direction to the first surface <NUM>, and a first side housing (for example, the first side housing <NUM> of <FIG>) surrounding at least a part of a first space between the first surface <NUM> and the second surface <NUM>; a second housing (for example, the second housing structure <NUM> of <FIG>) including a third surface (for example, the third surface <NUM> of <FIG>) which faces the first surface <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in a folded state, a fourth surface (for example, the fourth surface <NUM> of <FIG>) facing in the opposite direction to the third surface <NUM>, and a second side housing (for example, the second side housing <NUM> of <FIG>) surrounding at least a part of a second space between the third surface <NUM> and the fourth surface <NUM>; a hinge structure (for example, the hinge structure <NUM> of <FIG>) arranged between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> so as to form a folding axis (axis A); a flexible display (for example, the display <NUM> of <FIG>) exposed through the first surface <NUM> and the third surface <NUM>; and a communication circuit (for example, the communication module <NUM> of <FIG>) arranged in the first space and/or the second space. Each of the first side housing <NUM> and the second side housing <NUM> may include a conductive portion. At least a part of the conductive portion of the first side housing <NUM> may be electrically connected to the communication circuit. A partial corner portion of the first surface <NUM> may be made of a low-permittivity material (for example, the low-permittivity material <NUM> of <FIG>), and a partial corner portion of the third surface <NUM> may be made of the low-permittivity material <NUM>. The specific permittivity of the low-permittivity material <NUM> may, for example, and without limitation, be lower than <NUM>. The low-permittivity material <NUM> may include, for example, and without limitation, an injection-molded material. The first side housing <NUM> may include a first side surface 343a that is parallel with the folding axis (axis A), a second side surface 343b which is connected to one side of the first side surface 343a, and which is perpendicular to the folding axis (axis A), and a third side surface 343c which is connected to the other side of the first side surface 343a, and which is parallel with the second side surface 343b. The second side housing <NUM> may include a fourth side surface 353a which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A), a fifth side surface 353b which is connected to one side of the fourth side surface 353a, and which is arranged adjacent to the second side surface 343b when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, and a sixth side surface 353c which is connected to the other side of the fourth side surface 353a, and which is arranged adjacent to the third side surface 343c when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state. At least a partial conductive portion of the conductive portion arranged on the second side surface 343b and the third side surface 343c may be electrically connected to the communication circuit. Corner portions of the first surface <NUM>, which are adjacent to the second side surface 343b and the third side surface 343c, may be made of the low-permittivity material <NUM>. Corner portions of the third surface <NUM>, which are adjacent to the fifth side surface 353b and the sixth side surface 353c, may be made of the low-permittivity material <NUM>. A corner portion of the first surface <NUM>, which is adjacent to the first side surface 343a, may include a first protruding portion <NUM>. A corner portion of the third surface <NUM>, which is adjacent to the fourth side surface 353a, may include a second protruding portion <NUM> which contacts the first protruding portion <NUM> when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state. When the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may contact each other such that the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b are spaced apart from each other, and the third side surface 343c and the sixth side surface 353c are spaced apart from each other. Each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may include a conductive portion. Each of the first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may include a nonconductive portion. The first protruding portion <NUM> and the second protruding portion <NUM> may have mutually symmetric shapes with reference to the folding axis (axis A). When the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the second side surface 343b and the fifth side surface 353b may be spaced apart from each other by an interval of <NUM>-<NUM>. The foldable electronic device may further include: a processor arranged in the first space and/or the second space and operatively connected to the communication circuit; and a memory arranged in the first space and/or the second space, operatively connected to the processor, and configured to store multiple application programs. The memory may store instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to receive a speech request through the communication circuit when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, to output a notification in response to reception of the speech request, and to provide a communication function while the foldable electronic device <NUM> remains in the folded state in response to reception of a designated input from the user.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a first side housing and a second side housing of an example electronic device in a flat state according to another example. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a folded state according to an example.

The electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> may be substantially identical or similar to the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, except for the elements described below. The same elements in <FIG> and <FIG> as those of the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of the same elements made with reference to <FIG> and <FIG> will not be repeated here.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> according to another example may have a low-permittivity material <NUM> formed in an area adjacent to or overlapping with a portion of the foldable housing <NUM>, which is used as an antenna. For example, low-permittivity materials <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be formed on partial corner portions of the first surface <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM>, and low-permittivity materials <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be formed on partial corner portions of the third surface <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM>.

For example, a first low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on a partial corner of the first surface <NUM>, and the first low-permittivity material <NUM> may be arranged to overlap with first to third conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of the first side housing <NUM>, which are used as antennas. Similarly, a second low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on a partial corner of the third surface <NUM>, and the second low-permittivity material <NUM> may be arranged to face the first low-permittivity material <NUM> of the first surface <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state.

As another example, the first housing structure <NUM> may have a first low-permittivity material <NUM> formed on the surface of corner portions of the first surface <NUM>, which are adjacent to the second side surface 343b and the third side surface 343c. Similarly, the second housing structure <NUM> may have a second low-permittivity material <NUM> formed on the surface of corner portions of the third surface <NUM>, which are adjacent to the fifth side surface 353b and the sixth side surface 353c.

In an example, the first low-permittivity material <NUM> and the second low-permittivity material <NUM> may be arranged to be symmetric to each other with reference to the folding axis (axis A). In an example, the first low-permittivity material <NUM> and the second low-permittivity material <NUM> may face or contact each other when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state.

The low-permittivity material may be as follows. The permittivity may be a physical unit indicating the influence of a medium on an electric field. The higher the permittivity of the medium, the lower the intensity of the electric field acting on the medium. In connection with defining the permittivity, it is possible to use a specific permittivity, which indicates a comparison between the permittivity in a vacuum state and the permittivity of a specific material. For example, the specific permittivity of a material may be defined by Equation <NUM> below: <MAT> (εr = specific permittivity, ε = permittivity of the material, and εo = permittivity in the vacuum state).

Example specific permittivities of materials are given in Table <NUM> below. In an example, in view of the antenna performance, the low-permittivity material may be defined as a material, the specific permittivity of which is lower than <NUM>.

An electronic device <NUM> according to an example may have a first low-permittivity material <NUM> formed on a partial corner portion of the first surface <NUM>, which is adjacent to the antenna, and may have a second low-permittivity material <NUM> formed in an area of the third surface <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM>, which faces the first low-permittivity material <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, thereby reducing the effect of coupling of energy radiated from the antenna arranged on the second side surface 343b with the conductive portion of the fifth side surface 353b, and consequently improving the radiation performance of the antenna arranged on the second side surface 343b. Similarly, an electronic device <NUM> according to an example may reduce the effect of coupling of energy radiated from the antenna arranged on the third side surface 343c when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state with the conductive portion of the sixth side surface 353c, consequently improving the radiation performance of the antenna arranged on the third side surface 343c.

In an example, since a part of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the first side surface 343a (for example, the upper side and the lower side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>) is used as an antenna, a third low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on a corner portion of the first surface <NUM>, which overlaps with the part of the first side surface 343a that is used as an antenna. Similarly, a fourth low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed in an area of the corner portion of the third surface <NUM>, which overlaps with a part of the fourth side surface 353a, and which faces the third low-permittivity material <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state.

In an example, a part of the boundary portion between the first housing <NUM> and the hinge structure <NUM> may be used as an antenna, and a fifth low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on the part used as an antenna. Similarly, a part of the boundary portion between the second housing structure <NUM> and the hinge structure <NUM> may be used as an antenna, and a sixth low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on the part used as an antenna.

In an example, the low-permittivity material may include an injection-molded material. In an example, the low-permittivity material may be made of the same material as the nonconductive portions formed on the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM>. For example, the low-permittivity material and the nonconductive portions may be made of an injection-molded material.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment.

The electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be substantially identical or similar to the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, except for the elements described below. The same elements in <FIG> as those of the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions of the same elements made with reference to <FIG> and <FIG> will not be repeated here.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may have a first protruding portion <NUM> formed on a corner portion of the first surface <NUM>, which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A), and a second protruding portion <NUM> formed on a corner portion of the third surface <NUM>, which is parallel with the folding axis (axis A), so as to contact the first protruding portion <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state. For example, the first protruding portion <NUM> may be formed adjacent to a portion 571b of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the first side surface 343a, which is not used as an antenna, such as the portion <NUM> indicated by the dotted lines in <FIG>. As another example, the first protruding portion <NUM> may be arranged to overlap with a part 571b of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> when viewed from the front of the electronic device <NUM> (when seen from above the display of the electronic device <NUM>), and the overlapping part of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> may be a portion 571b that is not used as an antenna. Similarly, the second protruding portion <NUM> may be formed adjacent to the conductive portion <NUM> of the fourth side surface 353a, such as the other portion <NUM> indicated by the dotted lines in <FIG>. As another example, the second protruding portion <NUM> may be arranged to overlap with a part of the conductive portion <NUM> of the fourth side surface 353a when viewed from the front of the electronic device <NUM> (when seen from above the display of the electronic device <NUM>).

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a flat state according to an embodiment. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating the electronic device illustrated in <FIG> in a folded state.

The electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> may be substantially identical or similar to the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, except for the elements described below. In <FIG> and <FIG>, reference numerals are given only to elements different from those of the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may have a low-permittivity material formed on at least a part of the foldable housing <NUM>, and the low-permittivity material may be formed to overlap with a conductive portion used as an antenna. In the case of the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the length, shape, width, thickness, or structure of the low-permittivity material may be variously modified, unlike the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. For example, a first low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on a partial corner of the first surface <NUM>, and the first low-permittivity material <NUM> may be arranged to overlap with conductive portions of the first side housing <NUM>, which are used as antennas (for example, the first to third conductive portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of <FIG>). Similarly, a second low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on a corner of the third surface <NUM>, and the second low-permittivity material <NUM> may be arranged to face the first low-permittivity material <NUM> of the first surface <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state.

In the illustrated embodiment, since a part of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> arranged on the first side surface 343a (for example, the upper side and the lower side of the seventh conductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>) is used as an antenna, a third low-permittivity material <NUM> is formed on a corner portion of the first surface <NUM>, which overlaps with the part of the first side surface 343a that is used as an antenna. Similarly, a fourth low-permittivity material <NUM> is formed in an area of the corner portion of the third surface <NUM>, which overlaps with a part of the fourth side surface 353a, and which faces the third low-permittivity material <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state.

In the illustrated embodiment, the shape, width, thickness, or structure of each of the third low-permittivity material <NUM> and the fourth low-permittivity material <NUM> may not be constant. For example, the third low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on the first side surface 343a and on the front surface of the electronic device <NUM>, which is adjacent to the first side surface 343a, such that the width or thickness thereof is not constant. Similarly, the fourth low-permittivity material <NUM> may be formed on the third side surface 343c and on the front surface of the electronic device <NUM>, which is adjacent to the third side surface 343c, such that the width or thickness of the fourth low-permittivity material <NUM> is not constant.

In various embodiments, the arrangement, shape, width, thickness, or structure of the low-permittivity material may be variously modified, in addition to the illustrated example.

<FIG> is a graph illustrating the measured antenna performance of an electronic device according to various embodiments.

In <FIG>, the x-axis may denote the frequency, and the y-axis may denote the antenna radiation efficiency.

In <FIG>, reference numeral <NUM> refers to a measured antenna performance when a foldable electronic device according to a comparative example is in a folded state, and reference numeral <NUM> refers to a measured antenna performance when the foldable electronic device according to the comparative example is in a flat state.

The experimental conditions for testing the foldable electronic device according to a comparative example were as follows. The foldable electronic device according to a comparative example was designed such that most of the foldable housing thereof was made of a metallic material, and a part of the foldable housing was used as an antenna. As illustrated, it can be understood that, since the housing of the foldable electronic device according to a comparative example, which is adjacent to the antenna, is made of a metallic material, the antenna performance in the folded state is inferior to the antenna performance in the flat state.

In <FIG>, reference numerals <NUM> and <NUM> refer to measured antenna performance when an electronic device according to various embodiments is in a folded state. Reference numeral <NUM> refers to a measured antenna performance under the condition that the first housing structure and the second housing structure are spaced apart from each other by an interval of, for example, about <NUM>, and reference numeral <NUM> refers to a measured antenna performance under the condition that the first housing structure and the second housing structure are spaced apart from each other by an interval of, for example, about <NUM>.

It can be understood from the reference numeral <NUM> in the graph that, when the electronic device according to various embodiments is in a folded state, the first housing structure and the second housing structure are spaced apart from each other by an interval of, for example, about <NUM>, thereby maintaining antenna performance comparable to the antenna performance in the flat state. It is to be noted that, in an example embodiment, the interval between the first housing structure and the second housing structure, that is, the interval between the second side surface and the fifth side surface (or between the third side surface and the sixth side surface), may preferably be in a range of, for example, about <NUM>-<NUM>.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an example method for driving an electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment.

In operation <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may receive an external signal through the communication circuit when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in a folded state. For example, the electronic device <NUM> may receive a speech request while the foldable electronic device <NUM> remains folded.

In operation <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may output a notification in response to reception of the external signal. For example, the electronic device <NUM> may output a designated notification in response to reception of a speech request. The designated notification may include, for example, and without limitation, a bell sound, a voice notification, and/or a vibration, or the like.

In operation <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may provide a communication function while the foldable electronic device <NUM> remains folded in response to reception of a designated input from the user. The designated input may include, for example, and without limitation, a designated touch gesture, an input through a designated physical key, a designated voice command, or the like. The electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may provide a communication function while remaining in the folded state and, since the antenna performance is not degraded even if the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state, the reliability can be improved while the communication function is provided.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example section of a part of each of a first housing structure and a second housing structure according to an embodiment. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example section of a part of each of a first housing structure and a second housing structure when an electronic device according to an embodiment is in a folded state. According to an embodiment, <FIG> and <FIG> may illustrate a part of each of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the side surface of a first housing structure <NUM> according to an embodiment (for example, the first housing structure <NUM> of <FIG>) may includes conductive portion <NUM> and a nonconductive portion <NUM>. A part of the conductive portion <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> is used as an antenna, and a nonconductive portion <NUM> may be formed in an area overlapping with the conductive portion <NUM> that is used as an antenna.

According to an embodiment, the nonconductive portion <NUM> is formed on the conductive portion <NUM> (for example, on the upper side of the conductive portion <NUM> when seen in <FIG>) so as to be exposed when seen from above the display <NUM> (for example, the display <NUM> of <FIG>). Similarly, the side surface of the second housing structure <NUM> (for example, the second housing structure <NUM> of <FIG>) includes a conductive portion <NUM> and a nonconductive portion <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the conductive portion <NUM> and the nonconductive portion <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM> may be formed to be symmetric with the conductive portion <NUM> and the nonconductive portion <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> with reference to the folding axis (axis A) (for example, the folding axis (A) of <FIG>).

In the illustrated example, the nonconductive portion <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> and the nonconductive portion <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM> may be the low-permittivity material <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the nonconductive portion <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> according to an embodiment and the nonconductive portion <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM> may face or contact each other when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state. The electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments reduces degradation of the antenna performance by spacing the conductive portion <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> and the conductive portion <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM> apart from each other when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state. The electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments may reduce the phenomenon of coupling of energy radiated from the conductive portion <NUM> of the first housing structure <NUM> with the conductive portion <NUM> of the second housing structure <NUM>.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view of an example electronic device including a frame according to various embodiments.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG> (for example, the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) may be at least partially similar to the electronic devices illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments includes: a foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM> (for example, the foldable housing <NUM> of <FIG>), at least a part of which is folded using a hinge structure <NUM> (for example, the hinge structure <NUM> of <FIG>); a flexible display <NUM> (for example, the display <NUM> of <FIG>) loaded (e.g., disposed) on the foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM> such that at least a part thereof is configured to be folded; a frame <NUM> loaded (e.g., disposed) on the boundary portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the flexible display <NUM> or on at least a part of the boundary portions and coupled to the foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM>.

The foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM> includes a first housing structure <NUM> (for example, the first housing structure <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed on one side of the hinge structure <NUM> with reference to the hinge structure <NUM>, and a second housing structure <NUM> (for example, the second housing structure <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed on the other side of the hinge structure <NUM>.

According to the invention, the foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM> includes a first side member <NUM> (for example, the first side housing <NUM> of <FIG>) surrounding a first space disposed on one side of the hinge structure <NUM>, and a second side member <NUM> (for example, the second side housing <NUM> of <FIG>) surrounding a second space disposed on the other side of the hinge structure <NUM>.

The entire boundary portion of the front surface of the foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments may include a low-permittivity material (for example, the low-permittivity materials <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, the electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments may include a frame <NUM> disposed on the boundary portion of each of the first surface (for example, the first surface <NUM> of <FIG>) and the third surface (for example, the third surface <NUM> of <FIG>), which are configured to face each other in the folded state of the foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM>, and the frame <NUM> may include the low-permittivity material. The electronic device <NUM> has a first frame <NUM> and a second frame <NUM> disposed on the boundary portion of the flexible display <NUM> in the unfolded state of the foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM>, when the flexible display <NUM> is viewed from above. According to an embodiment, the frame <NUM> may be a component substantially identical or similar to the nonconductive portion <NUM> and the nonconductive portion <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. In various example non-limiting commercial implementations, the frame <NUM> may include, for example, and without limitation, various decorative elements for aesthetic purposes.

According to the invention, the frame <NUM> includes a first frame <NUM> overlapping the first housing structure <NUM>, and a second frame <NUM> overlapping the second housing structure <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the first frame <NUM> and the second frame <NUM> may contact each other or approach each other such that the distance between thereof is equal to or less than a designated distance, in the folded state of the foldable housing <NUM> or <NUM>.

The first frame <NUM> is coupled to the first side member <NUM> while covering a boundary portion of the flexible display <NUM> such that the first boundary portion <NUM> of the flexible display <NUM> disposed on the first housing structure <NUM>, for example, the first non-display area thereof, is not exposed to the outside.

The second frame <NUM> is coupled to the second side member <NUM> while covering another boundary portion of the flexible display <NUM> such that the second boundary portion <NUM> of the flexible display <NUM> disposed on the second housing structure <NUM>, for example, the second non-display area thereof, is not exposed to the outside.

According to an embodiment, at least one sensor may be disposed on the outer periphery of the flexible display <NUM>, and a third frame <NUM> including the low-permittivity material may be disposed on the boundary portion of a sensor area (for example, the sensor area <NUM> of <FIG>) in which the sensor is disposed. According to an embodiment, the third frame <NUM> may be formed integrally with the first frame <NUM>.

According to an embodiment, the frame <NUM> may include a low-permittivity material having a specific permittivity less than <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the frame <NUM> may include, for example, and without limitation, an injection-molded material.

According to an embodiment, the frame <NUM> may include a polymer material or a metal material, and may be coupled to respective housing structures <NUM> or <NUM> using at least one of bonding, taping, thermal attachment, or structural coupling.

The electronic devices may include, for example, and without limitation, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, a home appliance, or the like.

Claim 1:
A portable communication device (<NUM>) comprising:
a communication circuit (<NUM>);
a foldable housing including a first housing (<NUM>), a second housing (<NUM>), and a hinge (<NUM>) disposed between the first housing (<NUM>) and the second housing (<NUM>), the first housing (<NUM>) including a first side member (<NUM>) forming a periphery of the first housing (<NUM>) and the second housing (<NUM>) including a second side member (<NUM>) disposed around the second housing (<NUM>);
a flexible display (<NUM>) disposed on the foldable housing, wherein at least a part of the flexible display (<NUM>) is configured to be folded;
a first non-conductive frame (<NUM>) coupled to the first side member (<NUM>) such that the first non-conductive frame (<NUM>) covers a boundary of the flexible display(<NUM>); and
a second non-conductive frame (<NUM>) facing the first non-conductive frame (<NUM>) in the folded state of the foldable housing and coupled to the second side member (<NUM>) such that the second non-conductive frame (<NUM>) covers a boundary of the flexible display (<NUM>),
wherein the first side member (<NUM>) includes a first non-conductive portion (<NUM>), a second non-conductive portion (<NUM>), and a first conductive portion (<NUM>) disposed between the first non-conductive portion (<NUM>) and the second non-conductive portion (<NUM>), operably connected with the communication circuit (<NUM>) and coupled to at least a portion of the first non-conductive frame (<NUM>),
the second side member (<NUM>) includes a third non-conductive portion (<NUM>), a fourth non-conductive portion (<NUM>), and a second conductive portion (<NUM>) disposed between the third non-conductive portion (<NUM>) and the fourth non-conductive portion (<NUM>) and coupled to at least a portion of the second non-conductive frame (<NUM>),
characterized in that the first conductive portion (<NUM>) and the second conductive portion (<NUM>) are spaced apart from each other at least by the first non-conductive frame (<NUM>) and the second non-conductive frame (<NUM>) in a folded state of the foldable housing.