Patent Description:
Owing to the remarkable development of information and communication technology and semiconductor technology, various electronic devices have been proliferated rapidly and used increasingly. Particularly, recent electronic devices have been developed such that users communicate while carrying them.

An electronic device refers to a device that executes a specific function according to an installed program, such as an electronic notebook, a portable multimedia player, a mobile communication terminal, a tablet PC, a video/audio player, a desktop/laptop computer, and a vehicle navigation device as well as a home appliance. For example, these electronic devices may output stored information visually or audibly. As the integration level of electronic devices increases and high-speed and large-capacity wireless communication becomes common, a single electronic device such as a mobile communication terminal may be equipped with various functions. For example, a communication function, an entertainment function such as games, a multimedia function such as music/video playback, communication and security functions for mobile banking, schedule management, and an electronic wallet are integrated into one electronic device. Such electronic devices are being miniaturized so that users may conveniently carry them.

As mobile communication services have extended to a multimedia service area, the size of the display of an electronic device may increase so that a user fully uses multimedia services as well as voice calls or short messages. Accordingly, a foldable flexible display may be disposed over the entire area of a housing structure separated to be foldable.

Further, high performance of waterproofing and dustproofing is required in the recent years to enhance user convenience for use in various environments. <CIT> describes a portable communication device or electronic device including a sealing member.

As the foldable flexible display is disposed over the entire area of the housing structure, a housing has an unfixed structure. The unfixed structure necessarily includes a plurality of components. Because a plurality of components are used in a foldable part, a space may be formed between components, and foreign materials may be introduced into the space. Therefore, there is a need for protecting an internal structure to prevent the introduction of foreign materials into the electronic device. For example, high performance of waterproofing and/or dustproofing is required.

Embodiments of the disclosure, a waterproof member is disposed inside a housing to provide a waterproofing and/or dustproofing function in an electronic device.

An electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge assembly including a hinge disposed between the first housing and the second housing, and including a hinge plate and a hinge module disposed at both ends of the hinge plate in a longitudinal direction of the hinge plate, a first circuit board disposed in the first housing, a second circuit board disposed in the second housing, a flexible display disposed on the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge assembly, a first waterproof member comprising a waterproof material disposed between the first housing and the flexible display, a first adhesive member comprising an adhesive disposed between the hinge module and the flexible display, an electrical component disposed between the first waterproof member and the first adhesive member, an electrical component waterproof member comprising a waterproof material disposed between the electrical component and the flexible display, and a first support disposed between the electrical component waterproof member and the flexible display. An electrical component groove is formed in the first housing, the electrical component is disposed in an area of the first circuit board corresponding to the electrical component groove, and covered by the electrical component waterproof member, and a first electrical component hole coupled to the electrical component groove is formed in a part of the first housing.

According to various example embodiments of the disclosure, a waterproof member is disposed in at least one area of an electronic device to prevent and/or reduce introduction of foreign materials from the outside. Accordingly, the durability and usability of the electronic device may be improved.

<FIG> is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device <NUM> in a network environment <NUM> according to various embodiments.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> in the network environment <NUM> may communicate with an electronic device <NUM> via a first network <NUM> (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or at least one of an electronic device <NUM> or a server <NUM> via a second network <NUM> (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a processor <NUM>, memory <NUM>, an input module <NUM>, a sound output module <NUM>, a display module <NUM>, an audio module <NUM>, a sensor module <NUM>, an interface <NUM>, a connecting terminal <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 various embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., the connecting terminal <NUM>) may be omitted from the electronic device <NUM>, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device <NUM>. In various embodiments, some of the components (e.g., the sensor module <NUM>, the camera module <NUM>, or the antenna module <NUM>) may be implemented as a single component (e.g., the display module <NUM>).

According to an embodiment, the antenna module <NUM> may include an antenna including a radiating element including a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)).

In an embodiment, the external electronic device <NUM> may include an internet-of-things (loT) device. The electronic device <NUM> may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on <NUM> communication technology or loT-related technology.

The electronic devices may include, for example, 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.

As used herein, each of such phrases as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of, or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together in a corresponding one of the phrases. As used herein, such terms as "1st" and "2nd" or "first" and "second" may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another, and does not limit the components in other aspect (e.g., importance or order). It is to be understood that if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to, with or without the term "operatively" or "communicatively", as "coupled with", "coupled to", "connected with", or "connected to" another element (e.g., a second element), the element may be coupled with the other element directly (e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via a third element.

As used in connection with various embodiments of the disclosure, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, or any combination thereof, and may interchangeably be used with other terms, for example, logic, logic block, part, or circuitry.

Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., the program <NUM>) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., the internal memory <NUM> or the external memory <NUM>) that is readable by a machine (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>). Wherein, the 'non-transitory' storage medium is a tangible device, and may not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating the foldable electronic device in a folded state according to various embodiments.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an electronic device <NUM> in an unfolded state according to various embodiments. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating the electronic device <NUM> in a folded state according to various embodiments. The electronic device <NUM>, which is an example of the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, may, for example, be a foldable or bendable electronic device.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> includes a foldable housing <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> includes a flexible or foldable display <NUM> (hereinafter, referred to shortly as "flexible display" <NUM>) (e.g., the display device <NUM> of <FIG>). According to an embodiment, a surface on which the flexible display <NUM> is disposed (or a surface on which the flexible display <NUM> is viewed from the outside of the electronic device <NUM>) may be defined as a front surface of the electronic device <NUM>. In addition, an opposite surface to the front surface may be defined as a rear surface of the electronic device <NUM>. A surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the rear surface may be defined as a side surface of the electronic device <NUM>.

The foldable housing <NUM> includes a first housing <NUM> and a second housing <NUM>, and a hinge assembly <NUM>. The foldable housing <NUM> may include a first housing <NUM> having a sensor area <NUM>, a first rear cover <NUM>, and a second rear cover <NUM>. The hinge assembly <NUM> may include a hinge cover (e.g., a hinge cover <NUM> of <FIG>) that covers a foldable part of the foldable housing <NUM>. The foldable housing <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> may be implemented in a different shape or a different combination and/or engagement, not limited to the shape and combination illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. For example, in an embodiment, the first housing <NUM> and the first rear cover <NUM> may be integrally formed, and the second housing <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> may be integrally formed.

According to various embodiments, an illuminance sensor (e.g., an illuminance sensor <NUM> of <FIG>) and an image sensor (not shown) may be disposed in the sensor area <NUM>. The illuminance sensor <NUM> may detect the amount of light around the electronic device <NUM>, and the image sensor may convert light incident through a camera lens into a digital signal. The illuminance sensor <NUM> and the image sensor may be visually exposed from the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the illuminance sensor and the image sensor may not be visually exposed. For example, a camera may be configured as an under display camera (UDC). Pixels in an area of the flexible display <NUM> corresponding to the position of the UDC may be configured differently from pixels in other areas, so that the image sensor and/or the camera may not be visually exposed.

According to various embodiments, the first housing <NUM> may be coupled to the hinge assembly <NUM> and include a first front surface facing in a first direction and a first rear surface facing in a direction opposite to the first direction. The second housing <NUM> may be coupled to the hinge assembly <NUM> and include a second front surface facing in a second direction and a second rear surface facing in a direction opposite to the second direction. The second housing <NUM> may rotate around the hinge assembly <NUM> with respect to the first housing <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> may change to the folded stated or the unfolded state.

According to various embodiments, the first housing <NUM> may include a first side surface 211a disposed between the first front surface and the first rear surface, in parallel to a folding axis A of the hinge assembly <NUM> apart from the folding axis A, and the second housing <NUM> may include a second side surface 221a disposed between the second front surface and the second rear surface, in parallel to the folding axis A of the hinge assembly <NUM> apart from the folding axis A. Further, the first housing <NUM> may include a third side surface 211b which is perpendicular to the first side surface 211a and has one end coupled to the first side surface 211a, and the other end coupled to the hinge assembly <NUM>, and a fourth side surface 211c which is perpendicular to the first side surface 211a, has one end coupled to the first side surface 211a and the other end coupled to the hinge assembly <NUM>, and is spaced apart from the third side surface 211b in a direction parallel to the third side surface 211b. The second housing <NUM> may include a fifth side surface 221b which is perpendicular to the second side surface 221a and has one end coupled to the second side surface 221a and the other end coupled to the hinge assembly <NUM>, and a sixth side surface 221c which is perpendicular to the second side surface 221a, has one end coupled to the second side surface 221a and the other end coupled to the hinge assembly <NUM>, and is spaced apart from the fifth side surface 221b in a direction parallel to the fifth side surface 221b. When the second housing <NUM> is folded against the first housing <NUM> with respect to the hinge assembly <NUM>, the first side 211a may come closer to the second side 221a, whereas when the second housing <NUM>) is unfolded from the first housing <NUM> with respect to the hinge assembly <NUM>, the first side surface 211a and the second side surface 221a may move away from each other.

According to an embodiment, in the electronic device <NUM>, the first front surface and the second front surface may face each other in a fully folded state, and the second direction may be the same as the first direction in a fully unfolded state. In the fully unfolded state, the first side surface 211a and the second side surface 221a may be remotest from each other.

According to various embodiments, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be disposed on both sides of the folding axis A and have overall symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis A. As described later, the angle or distance between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may vary depending on whether the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are in the unfolded state, the folded state, or an intermediate state in which the electronic device <NUM> is partially unfolded (or partially folded).

According to various embodiments, as illustrated in <FIG>, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may together form a recess for accommodating the flexible display <NUM>. According to various embodiments, at least parts of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be formed of a metal material or a non-metal material having a rigidity selected to support the flexible display <NUM>. The at least parts of the metal material may provide a ground plane for the electronic device <NUM>, and may be electrically coupled to a ground line formed on a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed inside the foldable housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, a protection member (not shown) may be disposed around the periphery of the flexible display <NUM>. The protection member may be formed integrally with the side surface of the foldable housing <NUM> or as a separate structure. The flexible display <NUM> may not be adhered to the side surface of the foldable housing <NUM> and/or the protection member. A gap may be formed between the flexible display <NUM> and the protection member. The protection member may be configured to cover internal components of the electronic device <NUM> from the outside or protect the internal components of the electronic device <NUM> from external impacts. According to an embodiment, the protection member may be configured to cover a wiring mounted on the flexible display <NUM> from the outside or to protect the wiring from external impacts.

According to various embodiments, the first rear cover <NUM> may be disposed on one side of the folding axis A on the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM>, have, for example, a substantially rectangular periphery, and be surrounded around the periphery thereof by the first housing <NUM>. Similarly, the second rear cover <NUM> may be disposed on the other side of the folding axis A on the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM> and surrounded around the periphery thereof by the second housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first rear cover <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis A. However, the first rear cover <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> do not necessarily have mutually symmetrical shapes, and in an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include the first rear cover <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> in various shapes. In an embodiment, the first rear cover <NUM> may be integrally formed with the first housing <NUM>, and the second rear cover <NUM> may be integrally formed with the second housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first rear cover <NUM>, the second rear cover <NUM>, the first housing <NUM>, and the second housing <NUM> may form a space in which various components (e.g., a PCB or a battery) may be arranged. According to an embodiment, one or more components may be disposed or visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM>. For example, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through a first rear area <NUM> of the first rear cover <NUM>. In various embodiments, the sensors may include a proximity sensor and/or a rear camera. In an embodiment, at least a part of a sub-display may be visually exposed through a second rear area <NUM> of the second rear cover <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, a front camera disposed on the front surface (e.g., a second front surface) of the electronic device <NUM> or a rear camera exposed through the first rear area <NUM> of the first rear cover <NUM> may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. A flash may include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED) or a xenon lamp. In various embodiments, two or more lenses (an IR camera, a wide angle lens, and a telephoto lens) and image sensors may be disposed on one surface of the electronic device <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the hinge cover (e.g., the hinge cover <NUM> of <FIG>) included in the hinge assembly <NUM> may be disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> and configured to cover an internal component (e.g., the hinge assembly <NUM>). According to an embodiment, the hinge assembly <NUM> may be covered by parts of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> or exposed to the outside according to a state of the electronic device <NUM> (the unfolded state, the intermediate state, or the folded state).

According to an embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., the fully unfolded state), the hinge assembly <NUM> may be covered by the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> and thus may not be exposed. In another example, as illustrated in <FIG>, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., the fully folded state), the hinge assembly <NUM> may be exposed to the outside from between the first housing <NUM> and the second. In another example, when the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are in the intermediate status in which they are folded at a certain angle, the hinge assembly <NUM> may be partially exposed to the outside from between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. In this case, however, an exposed area may be smaller than in the fully folded state. In an embodiment, the hinge assembly <NUM> may include a curved surface.

According to various embodiments, the flexible display <NUM> may be disposed in a space formed by the foldable housing <NUM>. For example, the flexible display <NUM> may be seated in a recess formed by the foldable housing <NUM> and seen from the outside through the front surface (e.g., the first front surface and/or the second front surface) of the electronic device <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the flexible display <NUM> may form most of the front surface (e.g., the first front surface and/or the second front surface) of the electronic device <NUM>. Accordingly, the front surface (e.g., the first front surface and/or the second front surface) of the electronic device <NUM> may form the flexible display <NUM> and partial areas of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> adjacent to the flexible display <NUM>. The rear surface (e.g., the first rear surface and/or the second rear surface) of the electronic device <NUM> may include the first rear cover <NUM>, a partial area of the first housing <NUM> adjacent to the first rear cover <NUM>, the second rear cover <NUM>, and a partial areas of the second housing <NUM> adjacent to the second rear cover <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the flexible display <NUM> may refer to a display in which at least a partial area is deformable into a flat surface or a curved surface. According to an embodiment, the flexible display <NUM> may include a folding area <NUM>, a first area <NUM> disposed on one side of the folding area <NUM> (e.g., the right side of the folding area <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>), a second area <NUM> disposed on the other side of the folding area <NUM> (e.g., the left side of the folding area <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>).

However, the area division of the flexible display <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> is merely an example, and the display <NUM> may be divided into a plurality of areas (e.g., two areas or four or more areas) according to its structure or function. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the flexible display <NUM> may be divided into areas by the folding area <NUM> extending in parallel to the folding axis A. However, in an embodiment, the flexible display <NUM> may be divided into areas with respect to a different folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to a width direction of the electronic device).

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the flexible display <NUM> may be combined with or disposed adjacent to a touch panel including a touch sensing circuit and a pressure sensor for measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch. For example, the flexible display <NUM> as an example of a touch panel may be combined with or disposed adjacent to a touch panel that detects an electromagnetic resonance (EMR)-type stylus pen.

According to various embodiments, the first area <NUM> and the second area <NUM> may have overall symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding area <NUM>.

A description will be provided below of operations of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> and each area of the flexible display <NUM> according to the state of the electronic device <NUM> (e.g., the folded state, the unfolded state, or the intermediate state).

According to various embodiments, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>), the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be disposed to face in the same direction, forming an angle of <NUM> degrees. The surface of the first area <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> in the flexible display <NUM> may form <NUM> degrees and face in the same direction (e.g., a front direction of the electronic device). In this case, the folding area <NUM> may form the same plane as the first area <NUM> and the second area <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>), the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be disposed to face each other. The surface of the first area <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> in the flexible display <NUM> may face each other, forming a narrow angle (e.g., between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees). At least a part of the folding area <NUM> may be formed of a curved surface having a predetermined curvature.

According to various embodiments, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the intermediate status, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be disposed at a certain angle. The surface of the first area <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> in the flexible display <NUM> may form an angle greater than that in the folded state and smaller than that in the unfolded state. At least a part of the folding area <NUM> may be formed of a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and the curvature may be smaller than that in the folded state.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a top view of the foldable electronic device in the folded state according to various embodiments.

The first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the hinge assembly <NUM>, a first vent hole <NUM>, a second vent hole <NUM>, a first electrical component hole <NUM>, and second electrical component holes <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be identical or similar to the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the hinge assembly <NUM>, the first vent hole <NUM>, and the second vent hole <NUM>, the first electrical component hole <NUM>, and the second electrical component holes <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. Accordingly, a description of the same components may be avoided.

Referring to <FIG>, according to various embodiments, the first vent hole <NUM> and the first electrical component hole <NUM> may be formed on a top side surface of the first housing <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first electrical component hole <NUM> may be formed closer to the hinge assembly <NUM> than the first vent hole <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the second vent hole <NUM> and the second electrical component holes <NUM> may be formed on a top side surface of the second housing <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second vent hole <NUM> may be formed closer to the hinge assembly <NUM> than the second electrical component holes <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, in the folded state of the second housing <NUM> with respect to the first housing <NUM>, the first electrical component hole <NUM> formed in the first housing <NUM> may disposed on the same line as the second vent hole <NUM> formed in the second housing <NUM> in the folded electronic device <NUM>. According to an embodiment, in the folded state of the second housing <NUM> with respect to the first housing <NUM>, an X-axis value of the first electrical component hole <NUM> may be equal to an X-axis value of the second vent hole <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, in the folded state of the second housing <NUM> with respect to the first housing <NUM>, the first vent hole <NUM> formed in the first housing <NUM> may be disposed on the same line as any one of the second electrical component holes <NUM> formed in the second housing <NUM> in the folded electronic device <NUM>. According to an embodiment, in the folded state of the second housing <NUM> with respect to the first housing <NUM>, an X-axis value of the first vent hole <NUM> may be equal to an X-axis value of the second electrical component hole <NUM>.

As the first electrical component hole <NUM> and the second vent hole <NUM> are arranged on the same line, and the first vent hole <NUM> and the second electrical component hole <NUM> are arranged on the same line as described above, the arrangement of each component may give an aesthetic feeling to a user.

According to various embodiments, the first vent hole <NUM> and the second vent hole <NUM> may be formed to communicate with a closed space formed by first to fourth waterproof members (e.g., first to fourth waterproof members <NUM> to <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed on the front and rear surfaces of the foldable housing <NUM>, which will be described later. The first vent hole <NUM> and the second vent hole <NUM> may be configured to allow gas to pass therethrough and block the introduction of liquid.

According to various embodiments, the positions of the second electrical component holes <NUM> and the second vent hole <NUM> may be exchanged, and the positions of the first electrical component hole <NUM> and the first vent hole <NUM> may be exchanged. Accordingly, according to an embodiment, the first vent hole <NUM> may be formed closer to the hinge assembly <NUM> than the first electrical component hole <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second electrical component holes <NUM> may be formed closer to the hinge assembly <NUM> than the second vent hole <NUM>.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments.

In <FIG>, a spatial coordinate system defined by an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis orthogonal to each other is illustrated. The X axis may represent a width direction of the electronic device, the Y axis may represent a longitudinal direction of the electronic device, and the Z axis may represent a height (or thickness) direction of the electronic device. In describing various embodiments of the disclosure, 'first direction and second direction' may refer, for example, to directions parallel to the Z axis.

The foldable housing <NUM>, the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the hinge assembly <NUM>, and the flexible display <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be identical or similar to the foldable housing <NUM>, the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the hinge assembly <NUM>, and the flexible display <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>. Accordingly, a description of the same or similar configuration may not be repeated here.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the electronic device <NUM> may include various electronic components disposed inside or outside the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. The various electronic components include, for example, a processor (e.g., the processor <NUM> of <FIG>), memory (e.g., the memory <NUM> of <FIG>), an input module (e.g., the input module <NUM> of <FIG>), a sound output module (e.g., the sound output module <NUM> of <FIG>), the display <NUM> (e.g., the display module <NUM> of <FIG>), an audio module (e.g., the audio module <NUM> of <FIG>), a sensor (e.g., the sensor module <NUM> of <FIG>), an interface (e.g., the interface <NUM> of <FIG>), a connecting terminal (e.g., the connecting terminal <NUM> of <FIG>), a haptic module (e.g., the haptic module <NUM> of <FIG>), a camera module (e.g., the camera module <NUM> of <FIG>), a power management module (e.g., the power management module <NUM> of <FIG>), batteries <NUM> and <NUM> (e.g., the battery <NUM> of <FIG>), a communication module (e.g., the communication module <NUM> of <FIG>), a SIM (e.g., the SIM <NUM> of <FIG>), or an antenna module (e.g., the antenna module <NUM> of <FIG>). The electronic components may be appropriately disposed in the internal or external spaces of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. In the electronic device <NUM>, at least one (e.g., the connecting terminal <NUM>) of these components may be omitted or one or more other components may be added. Some of these components may be integrated into one component.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM>, which is a foldable electronic device, may include a plurality of batteries to supply and store power required for driving to electronic components. For example, the batteries may include a first battery <NUM> and a second battery <NUM> disposed respectively in the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM>, which is a foldable electronic device, may include a first plate <NUM> and/or a second plate <NUM> for disposing components in the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. Various electronic components and/or circuit boards <NUM> and <NUM> may be disposed on the first plate <NUM> and/or the second plate <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first plate <NUM> and a first circuit board <NUM> may be disposed in the first housing <NUM>, and the second plate <NUM> and a second circuit board <NUM> may be disposed in the second housing <NUM>. The first plate <NUM> may include a first surface facing in the first direction, and the second plate <NUM> may include a second surface facing in the second direction. The first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> may be folded to or unfolded from each other by a hinge member <NUM> formed to correspond to the folding area <NUM> of the flexible display <NUM>. The first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> may be formed such that the first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> face each other in the folded state, and the first surface and the second surface face in the same direction in the unfolded state.

According to various embodiments, the first circuit board <NUM> may be disposed under the first plate <NUM> (in a -Z-axis direction), and the second circuit board <NUM> may be disposed under of the second plate <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, signals of the processor for implementing various functions and operations of the electronic device <NUM> may be transmitted to electronic components through various conductive lines <NUM> and/or connectors (not shown) formed on the circuit boards <NUM> and <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> includes the flexible display <NUM>, the foldable housing <NUM>, the hinge assembly <NUM>, the first circuit board <NUM>, the second circuit board <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> may further include a member <NUM>.

The foldable housing <NUM> includes the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, and the hinge assembly <NUM>. The foldable housing <NUM> may further include the first rear cover <NUM>, the second rear cover <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the flexible display <NUM> may include a display panel (not shown). In an embodiment, the first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> may be disposed between the display panel and the first circuit board <NUM> and between the display panel and the second circuit board <NUM>. The hinge assembly <NUM> may be disposed between the first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM>.

The hinge assembly <NUM> includes the hinge member <NUM>, and the hinge member <NUM> includes a hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and a hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM> (refer to <FIG>). The hinge assembly <NUM> may further include the hinge cover <NUM>. The hinge cover <NUM> may cover a structure disposed inside the hinge assembly <NUM>.

The first circuit board <NUM> and the second circuit board <NUM> are included. The first circuit board <NUM> and the second circuit board <NUM> are disposed inside a space formed by the first plate <NUM>, the second plate <NUM>, the first housing <NUM>, and the second housing <NUM>. The first circuit board <NUM> and the second circuit board <NUM> may be further disposed inside a space formed by the first rear cover <NUM>, and the second rear cover <NUM>. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device <NUM> may be arranged on the first circuit board <NUM> and the second circuit board <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, with the first plate <NUM> and the second plate <NUM> coupled with the flexible display <NUM>, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be assembled to each other to be coupled with both sides of the hinge assembly <NUM>. For example, the first housing <NUM> may be coupled with one side of the hinge assembly <NUM> by sliding, and the second housing <NUM> may be coupled with the other side of the hinge assembly <NUM> by sliding.

According to various embodiments, the member <NUM> may be disposed inside the electronic device <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the member <NUM> may be disposed between the first housing <NUM> and/or the first plate <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the member <NUM> may be disposed between the second housing <NUM> and/or the second plate <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the member <NUM> may be disposed between the first circuit board <NUM> and/or the first housing <NUM> and the first rear cover <NUM>, or between the second circuit board <NUM> and/or the second housing <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the member <NUM> may include a waterproof member (e.g., including a waterproof material) <NUM>, an adhesive member (e.g., an adhesive) <NUM>, a support member (e.g., a support) <NUM>, and a buffer member (e.g., a buffer) <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the waterproof member <NUM> may include a first waterproof member <NUM>, a second waterproof member <NUM>, a third waterproof member <NUM>, and a fourth waterproof member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the first plate <NUM> of the first housing <NUM> and the first area <NUM> of the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a waterproof tape. The first waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the first housing <NUM> and/or the first plate <NUM>, and may be adhered to the flexible display <NUM>. The first waterproof member <NUM> may be configured in a closed curve. The first waterproof member <NUM> configured in a closed curve may include at least one area. As the first waterproof member <NUM> is formed of a waterproof tape and includes at least one area configured in a closed curve, the first waterproof member <NUM> may prevent and/or reduce the introduction of liquid from the outside of the closed curve to the inside of the closed curve of the first waterproof member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the second plate <NUM> of the second housing <NUM> and the second area <NUM> of the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a waterproof tape. The second waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the second housing <NUM> and/or the second plate <NUM>, and may be adhered to the flexible display <NUM>. The second waterproof member <NUM> may be configured in a closed curve. The second waterproof member <NUM> configured in a closed curve may include at least one area. As the second waterproof member <NUM> is formed of a waterproof tape and includes at least one area configured in a closed curve, the second waterproof member <NUM> may prevent and/or reduce the introduction of liquid from the outside of the closed curve to the inside of the closed curve of the second waterproof member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first waterproof member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed not to contact the hinge assembly <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the third waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the first rear cover <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the third waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a waterproof tape. The third waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the first housing <NUM>, and may be adhered to the first rear cover <NUM>. The third waterproof member <NUM> may be configured in a closed curve. The third waterproof member <NUM> configured in a closed curve may include at least one area. As the third waterproof member <NUM> is formed of a waterproof tape, and includes at least one area configured in a closed curve, the third waterproof member <NUM> may prevent and/or reduce the introduction of liquid from the outside of the closed curve to the inside of the closed curve of the third waterproof member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the second housing <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a bond and/or a waterproof tape. The fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the second housing <NUM>, and may be adhered to at least a part of the second rear cover <NUM>. The fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be configured in a closed curve. The fourth waterproof member <NUM> configured in a closed curve may include at least one area. Since the fourth waterproof member <NUM> is formed of a bond and includes at least one area configured in a closed curve, the fourth waterproof member <NUM> may prevent and/or reduce the introduction of liquid from the outside of the closed curve to the inside of the closed curve of the fourth waterproof member <NUM>.

As the waterproof member <NUM> is disposed inside the electronic device <NUM>, the introduction of liquid from the outside of the electronic device <NUM> to the inside of the electronic device <NUM> may be prevented and/or reduced.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating a front surface of a foldable electronic device with a flexible display removed therefrom, viewed from above according to various embodiments. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating an area of the front surface of the foldable electronic device with the flexible display removed therefrom, viewed from above according to various embodiments.

The first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, a hinge assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly <NUM> of <FIG>), and the waterproof member <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> may be identical or similar to the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the hinge assembly <NUM>, and the waterproof member <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. Accordingly, a description of the same components may not be repeated here.

<FIG> is a plan view illustrating an example embodiment of a foldable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) with a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display <NUM> of <FIG>) removed therefrom, and <FIG> is an enlarged plan view illustrating an area of the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the first circuit board <NUM> may be disposed under (the -Z-axis direction) and/or inside the first housing <NUM>, and the second circuit board <NUM> may be disposed under (the -Z-axis direction) and/or inside the housing <NUM>. The hinge assembly <NUM> may be disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first waterproof member <NUM> may include various waterproof materials and be disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>, and the second waterproof member <NUM> may include various waterproof materials and be disposed between the second housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the first plate <NUM> of the first housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>, and the second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the second plate <NUM> of the second housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>.

The first waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to form a closed curve, and at least one first waterproof area <NUM>-<NUM> surrounded by the closed curve formed by the first waterproof member <NUM> may be formed. The second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to form a closed curve, and at least one second waterproof area <NUM>-<NUM> surrounded by the closed curve formed by the second waterproof member <NUM> may be formed. The first waterproof member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a waterproof tape comprising a waterproof material. According to an embodiment, the first waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the first housing <NUM> and/or the flexible display <NUM>, and the second waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the second housing <NUM> and/or the flexible display <NUM>. As the first waterproof member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> are disposed inside the electronic device <NUM> as described above, the waterproofing performance of the electronic device <NUM> may be improved. According to an embodiment, the first waterproof member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from the hinge assembly <NUM>. As the first waterproof member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> are disposed to be spaced apart from the hinge assembly <NUM>, the first waterproof member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> may be well adhered to the housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, and the flexible display <NUM>, without being significantly affected by the state (the folded or unfolded state) of the electronic device <NUM>. Accordingly, the waterproofing performance of the electronic device <NUM> may be improved.

According to various embodiments, the hinge assembly <NUM> may include the hinge member <NUM> and the hinge cover <NUM>, and the hinge member <NUM> may include the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM>. According to an embodiment, the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may be disposed at both ends of the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM> in a longitudinal direction of the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM> (a Y-axis direction). The hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may include a first hinge module (e.g., a first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>) and a second hinge module (e.g., a second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>). The first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may be disposed on the right side of a folding axis (e.g., the folding axis A of <FIG>) (a +X-axis direction), and the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may be disposed on the left side of the folding axis (e.g., the folding axis A of <FIG>) (a -X-axis direction). The first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and/or the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may be coupled to the first housing <NUM> and/or the second housing <NUM>. The first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may be coupled to each other and rotatable relative to each other. The hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM> may include various components and/or boards necessary for the operation of the electronic device <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, an adhesive member (e.g., including an adhesive) <NUM> may be disposed on at least a part of the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and/or the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM>. The adhesive member <NUM> may include a first adhesive member <NUM> and a second adhesive member <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first adhesive member <NUM> and the second adhesive member <NUM> may be formed of a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape.

According to various embodiments, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed on at least a part of the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of the hinge assembly <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed on the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM>. The first adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed between the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The first adhesive member <NUM> may be attached to the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The first adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed close to the folding axis (e.g., the folding axis A of <FIG>). Accordingly, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed closer to the folding axis A than the first waterproof member <NUM>. As the first adhesive member <NUM> is disposed close to the folding axis A, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be well adhered to the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM> without being significantly affected by various states (the folded state or the unfolded state) of the electronic device <NUM>. Accordingly, the flexible display <NUM> may not be separated from the foldable housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the second adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed on at least a part of the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of the hinge assembly <NUM>. The second adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed on the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM>. The second adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed between the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The second adhesive member <NUM> may be adhered to the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The second adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed to close to the folding axis (e.g., the folding axis A of <FIG>). Accordingly, the second adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed closer to the folding axis A than the first waterproof member <NUM>. As the second adhesive member <NUM> is disposed close to the folding axis A, the second adhesive member <NUM> may be well adhered to the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM> without being significantly affected by various states (the folded state or the unfolded state) of the electronic device <NUM>,. Accordingly, the flexible display <NUM> may not be separated from the foldable housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first waterproof member <NUM> and the first adhesive member <NUM> may be formed of different waterproof materials, and the thickness of the first waterproof member <NUM> may be different from that of the first adhesive member <NUM>. According to an embodiment, a gap between the hinge assembly <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM> may be smaller than a gap between the foldable housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. Accordingly, the first adhesive member <NUM> disposed between the hinge assembly <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM> may be formed thinner than the first waterproof member <NUM> disposed between the foldable housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the gap between the hinge assembly <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM> may be greater than the gap between the foldable housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. Accordingly, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be formed thicker than the first waterproof member <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the top of the hinge assembly <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction) may be disposed higher (in the +Z-axis direction) than the top of the first housing <NUM> and/or the second housing <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the top of the hinge assembly <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction) may be disposed lower (in the -Z-axis direction) than the top of the first housing <NUM> and/or the second housing <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction).

Referring to <FIG>, according to various embodiments, an electrical component <NUM> may be disposed in the first housing <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the electrical component <NUM> may be disposed between the first adhesive member <NUM> and the first waterproof member <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the electrical component <NUM> may be disposed on the right side of the first adhesive member <NUM> (in the +X-axis direction). The electrical component <NUM> may include various sensors and/or components necessary for the operation of the electronic device <NUM>. The electrical component <NUM> will be described in greater detail below with reference to the description of <FIG>.

According to various embodiments, the electrical component <NUM> may be disposed on the first circuit board <NUM>. An electrical component groove <NUM> is formed in the first housing <NUM>. The electrical component groove <NUM> may be a groove formed with a step difference from its surroundings. The electrical component groove <NUM> is configured to communicate with the first electrical component hole <NUM> formed in the first housing <NUM>. The electrical component <NUM> may be disposed in an opening (not shown) formed in the first housing <NUM> under the electrical component groove <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction). An electrical component waterproof member <NUM> and/or a first support member <NUM> may be disposed in the electrical component groove <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the electrical component <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). The electrical component waterproof member <NUM> is disposed between the electrical component <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a waterproof tape. An opening may be formed in an area of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the support member <NUM> may be disposed on of the waterproof member <NUM> of the electrical component <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). The support member <NUM> may include a first support member <NUM> and a second support member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first support member <NUM> may be disposed on the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). The first support member <NUM> may be disposed between the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The first support member <NUM> may be formed of polycarbonate. According to an embodiment, the first support member <NUM> may be formed of a glass material. The electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the first support member <NUM> and the electrical component <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the buffer member <NUM> may be disposed on the first support member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the buffer member <NUM> may be disposed between the first support member <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The buffer member <NUM> may be formed of polycarbonate. According to an embodiment, the buffer member <NUM> may be formed of a compressible sponge material.

According to various embodiments, the top of the first support member <NUM> and/or the buffer member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction) may be configured not to contact the flexible display <NUM> or not to be adhered to the flexible display <NUM>. As described above, as the electrical component <NUM>, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, the first support member <NUM>, and the buffer member <NUM> are configured to be stacked from the bottom (the -Z-axis direction) to the top (the +Z-axis direction), the waterproof performance of the electrical component <NUM> may be improved.

According to various embodiments, a vent groove <NUM> communicating with a second vent hole <NUM> may be formed in the second housing <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the vent groove <NUM> may be disposed between the second adhesive member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the vent groove <NUM> may be disposed on the left side of the second adhesive member <NUM> (in the -X-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, a vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the vent groove <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the vent groove <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a waterproof tape.

According to various embodiments, the buffer member <NUM> may be disposed on the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the buffer member <NUM> may be disposed between the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. The buffer member <NUM> may be formed of polycarbonate.

<FIG> is a partial perspective view illustrating an area of a foldable electronic device with a flexible display removed therefrom according to various embodiments.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating an area B of the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. The second vent hole <NUM>, the vent groove <NUM>, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM>, the first adhesive member <NUM>, the second adhesive member <NUM>, the first support member <NUM>, the second support member <NUM>, the buffer member <NUM>, and the electrical component <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be identical or similar to the second vent hole <NUM>, the vent groove <NUM>, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM>, the first adhesive member <NUM>, the second adhesive member <NUM>, the first support member <NUM>, the second support member <NUM>, the buffer member <NUM>, and the electrical component <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, according to various embodiments, the electrical component <NUM> may include a microphone <NUM> and the illuminance sensor <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may include the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM>. The first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and/or the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may be coupled to the first housing <NUM> and/or the second housing <NUM>. The first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may be coupled to each other and rotatable relative to each other.

According to various embodiments, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed on the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and/or the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM>, and the second adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed on the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and/or the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the microphone <NUM> may communicate with the first electrical component hole <NUM> (refer to <FIG>). The first electrical component hole <NUM> may be configured to communicate with the electrical component groove <NUM>. The microphone <NUM> may be disposed on the first circuit board <NUM> disposed under the first housing <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction). The electrical component waterproof member <NUM> and/or the first support member <NUM> may be disposed in the electrical component groove <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the illuminance sensor <NUM> may be disposed in an opening (not shown) formed in the first housing <NUM> under of the electrical component groove <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the microphone <NUM> and the illuminance sensor <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, an opening may be formed in an area of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> corresponding to the top of the illuminance sensor <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). As the single electrical component waterproof member <NUM> is disposed on the microphone <NUM> and the illuminance sensor <NUM>, the width of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> adjacent to the illuminance sensor <NUM> may be maximized and/or made larger. As the width of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> adjacent to the illuminance sensor <NUM> increases, the waterproofing performance of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be improved. According to various embodiments, an opening may be formed in an area of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> corresponding to the position of the electrical component <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the microphone <NUM> may be disposed under an area of the first circuit board <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction) corresponding to the position of the electrical component groove <NUM> formed in the first housing <NUM>, and the electrical component groove <NUM> may communicate with the first electrical component hole <NUM>. The electrical component waterproof member <NUM> and/or the first support member <NUM> may be disposed in the electrical component groove <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first electrical component hole <NUM> and/or the electrical component groove <NUM> may be formed obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the first housing <NUM> and/or the hinge assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly <NUM> of <FIG>).

According to various embodiments, the first support member <NUM> may be disposed on of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the first support member <NUM> may be formed of a transparent member, and the buffer member <NUM> may be disposed on the first support member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). When the electrical component disposed under the first support member <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction) is an electrical component that senses light, the first support member <NUM> may be formed of a transparent member, for light transmission.

According to various embodiments, an opening may be formed in an area of the first housing <NUM>, the first plate <NUM>, and/or various other components, corresponding to the position of the first electrical component groove <NUM>. According to this configuration, when an electrical component for sensing light is disposed under the first support member <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction), the electrical component may better detect light.

According to an embodiment, an opening may be formed in an area of the buffer member <NUM> corresponding to the position of the illuminance sensor <NUM>. As the buffer member <NUM> is disposed on the first support member <NUM>, a greater pressure may be applied to the first support member <NUM> and the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, and foreign materials introduced from the outside may filtered out by the buffer member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the second vent hole <NUM> may be formed in the second housing <NUM>. The second vent hole <NUM> may allow gas inflow from the outside and prevent and/or reduce the introduction of liquid. The vent groove <NUM> communicating with the second vent hole <NUM> may be formed in the second housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the vent groove <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, an opening may be formed in an area of the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> corresponding to the position of the vent groove <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the second support member <NUM> may be disposed on the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the second support member <NUM> may be formed of a transparent member. As the second support member <NUM> is disposed on the vent groove waterproof member <NUM>, a higher pressure may be applied to the vent groove waterproof member <NUM>, thereby improving the waterproofing performance.

According to various embodiments, the vent groove <NUM> may be formed in the second housing <NUM>. The vent groove <NUM> may be configured to communicate with the second vent hole <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second vent hole <NUM> and/or the vent groove <NUM> may be formed obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the second circuit board <NUM> and/or the second housing <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating the foldable electronic device with the flexible display removed therefrom illustrated in <FIG>, taken along line C-C', which is viewed in the +Y-axis direction according to various embodiments. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating the foldable electronic device with the flexible display removed therefrom illustrated in <FIG>, taken along line D-D, which is viewed in the +Y-axis direction according to various embodiments.

The first housing <NUM>, the flexible display <NUM>, the electrical component groove <NUM>, the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM>, the first circuit board <NUM>, the first waterproof member <NUM>, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, the first adhesive member <NUM>, the microphone <NUM>, and the illuminance sensor <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be identical or similar to the housing <NUM>, the flexible display <NUM>, the electrical component groove <NUM>, the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM>, the first circuit board <NUM>, the first waterproof member <NUM>, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, the first adhesive member <NUM>, the microphone <NUM>, and the illuminance sensor <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. Accordingly, a description of the same components may not be repeated here.

According to various embodiments, the microphone <NUM> may be disposed under the first circuit board <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the microphone <NUM> may be disposed in an opening (not shown) formed in the first housing <NUM> under the electrical component groove <NUM> (in the -Z-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, the illuminance sensor <NUM> may be disposed on the first circuit board <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the microphone <NUM>, the electrical component groove <NUM>, and the illuminance sensor <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). The electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed in the electrical component groove <NUM> in which a step is formed with respect to a surrounding area. As the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> is disposed, the effect of decreasing the depth of a microphone conduit E may occur. As the depth of the microphone conduit E decreases, the effect of decreasing the length of a conduit in which waves travel to the microphone <NUM> may occur. Accordingly, the performance of the microphone <NUM> may be improved. According to an embodiment, the electrical component groove <NUM> may be formed with no step difference or almost no step difference from the surrounding area. Accordingly, the depth of the microphone conduit E may be further decreased.

According to various embodiments, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed between the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be attached to the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the first housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the first waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the first housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first adhesive member <NUM> and the first waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. As the first adhesive member <NUM> and the first waterproof member <NUM> are disposed to be spaced apart from each other, durability against slip caused by relative movements of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be increased, thereby increasing the durability of the electronic device <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first waterproof member <NUM> and the first adhesive member <NUM> may be formed of different materials, and the thickness of the first waterproof member <NUM> may be different from that of the first adhesive member <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the gap between the hinge assembly <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM> may be smaller than the gap between the foldable housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. Accordingly, the first adhesive member <NUM> disposed between the hinge assembly <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM> may be formed thinner than the first waterproof member <NUM> disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the gap between the hinge assembly <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM> may be formed greater than the gap between the first housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. Accordingly, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be formed thicker than the first waterproof member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, as the first adhesive member <NUM> is adhered to the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>, the first waterproof member <NUM> is adhered to the first housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>, and the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> disposed between the first adhesive member <NUM> and the first waterproof member <NUM> is adhered to the first housing <NUM>, durability against slip caused by relative movements of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be increased, thereby increasing the durability of the electronic device <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, a camera <NUM> (refer to <FIG>) may be disposed between parts of the first waterproof member <NUM>.

The second housing <NUM>, the flexible display <NUM>, the vent groove <NUM>, the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM>, the second circuit board <NUM>, the second waterproof member <NUM>, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM>, and the second adhesive member <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be identical or similar to the second housing <NUM>, the flexible display <NUM>, the vent groove <NUM>, and the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM>, the second circuit board <NUM>, the second waterproof member <NUM>, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM>, and the second adhesive member <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. Accordingly, a description of the same components may be avoided.

According to various embodiments, the vent groove <NUM> may be formed on the second housing <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, the vent groove <NUM> may be formed to communicate with a second vent hole (e.g., the second vent hole <NUM> of <FIG>) formed in the second housing (e.g., the second housing <NUM> of <FIG>).

According to various embodiments, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the vent groove <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction).

According to various embodiments, the second adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed between the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second adhesive member <NUM> may be adhered to the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the second housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the second housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between the second housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the second housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the second adhesive member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. As the second adhesive member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> are disposed to be spaced apart from each other, durability against slip caused by relative movements of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be increased, thereby increasing the durability of the electronic device <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, as the second adhesive member <NUM> is adhered to the second hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>, the second waterproof member <NUM> is adhered to the second housing <NUM> and the flexible display <NUM>, and the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> disposed between the second adhesive member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> is adhered to the second housing <NUM>, durability against slip caused by relative movements of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be increased, thereby increasing the durability of the electronic device <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an area in which an electrical component is disposed, viewed from above according to various embodiments, and <FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating the area in which the electrical component is disposed according to various embodiments.

<FIG> and <FIG> will be described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. The first housing <NUM>, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, the first adhesive member <NUM>, the first support member <NUM>, the buffer member <NUM>, a microphone (e.g., the microphone <NUM> of <FIG>), and the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> are identical or similar to the first housing <NUM>, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, the first adhesive member <NUM>, the first support member <NUM>, the buffer member <NUM>, the microphone <NUM>, and the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. Accordingly, a description of the same or similar components may not be repeated here.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, according to various embodiments, the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> may be coupled to the first housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the first adhesive member <NUM> may be disposed on the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). The first adhesive member <NUM> may be adhered to the first hinge module <NUM>-<NUM>.

The electrical component groove <NUM> is formed in the first housing <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the electrical component <NUM> may be disposed in the electrical component groove <NUM> formed in the first housing <NUM>. The electrical component <NUM> may include the microphone <NUM> and the illuminance sensor <NUM>. The electrical component groove <NUM> may be configured to communicate with a first electrical component hole (e.g., the first electrical component hole <NUM> of <FIG>) formed in a second housing (e.g., the second housing <NUM> of <FIG>).

According to various embodiments, the first electrical component hole <NUM> may communicate with the microphone <NUM> through the microphone conduit (E). At least a part of the microphone conduit E may be formed obliquely and overlap with at least a part of the first electrical component hole <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the electrical component <NUM> and/or the first housing <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be adhered to the first housing <NUM>. The electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to cover the electrical component <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to cover the microphone <NUM> and/or the illuminance sensor <NUM>. As the microphone and the illuminance sensor <NUM> are covered by the single electrical component waterproof member <NUM>, a first width W1 and a second width W2 of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be greater than when using two or more electrical component waterproof members <NUM>. As the first width W1 and the second width W2 of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> increase, the waterproof performance of the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be improved.

According to various embodiments, the first support member <NUM> may be disposed on the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> (in +Z-axis direction). The first support member <NUM> may be adhered to the electrical component waterproof member <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the buffer member <NUM> may be disposed on the first support member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction). According to an embodiment, the first support member <NUM> may be adhered to the buffer member <NUM>.

As such, as the first support member <NUM> and/or the buffer member <NUM> is disposed on the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> (in the +Z-axis direction), a pressure applied to the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> may be increased, thereby improving the waterproofing performance. The electrical component waterproof member <NUM> and/or the buffer member <NUM> may not be adhered to the flexible display <NUM>. Accordingly, despite relative rotational movements of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>, the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> and/or the buffer member <NUM> may be configured not to follow the flexible display <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may not be adhered to the flexible display <NUM>. Accordingly, despite relative rotational movements of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>, the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> may be configured not to follow the flexible display <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an example structure of a second housing in an electronic device, viewed from the rear surface thereof according to various embodiments.

The second vent hole <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be the same as or similar to the second vent hole <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. Accordingly, a description of the same components may not be repeated here.

Referring to <FIG>, an antenna <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to the hinge assembly <NUM>. An antenna contact <NUM> coupled to the antenna <NUM> may be disposed at an edge of the second housing <NUM>. The second vent hole <NUM> may be disposed far from the hinge assembly <NUM> due to the antenna contact <NUM> disposed inside the second housing <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the second vent hole <NUM> may be formed obliquely to a surface forming the second housing <NUM> or the longitudinal direction of the electronic device <NUM> to avoid contact with the antenna contact point <NUM>. In addition, as the second vent hole <NUM> is formed obliquely to the longitudinal direction of the electronic device <NUM>, the second vent hole <NUM> may be formed at an X-axis position corresponding to a first electrical component hole (e.g., the first electrical component hole <NUM> of <FIG>).

An electronic device (e.g., the electronic device of <FIG>) according to the invention includes: a first housing (e.g., the first housing <NUM> of <FIG>), a second housing (e.g., the second housing <NUM> of <FIG>), a hinge assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly <NUM> of <FIG>) including a hinge disposed between the first housing and the second housing, and including a hinge plate (e.g., the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>) and a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>) disposed at both ends of the hinge plate in a longitudinal direction of the hinge plate, a first circuit board (e.g., the first circuit board <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed in the first housing, a second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed in the second housing, a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed on the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge assembly, a first waterproof member (e.g., the first waterproof member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising a waterproof material disposed between the first housing and the flexible display, a first adhesive member (e.g., the first adhesive member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising an adhesive disposed between the hinge module and the flexible display, an electrical component (e.g., the electrical component <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed between the first waterproof member and the first adhesive member, an electrical component waterproof member (e.g., the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising a waterproof material disposed between the electrical component and the flexible display, and a first support (e.g., the first support member <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed between the electrical component waterproof member and the flexible display. An electrical component groove (e.g., the electrical component groove <NUM> of <FIG>) is formed in the first housing, the electrical component is disposed in an area of the first circuit board corresponding to the electrical component groove, and covered by the electrical component waterproof member, and a first electrical component hole (e.g., the first electrical component hole <NUM> of <FIG>) coupled to the electrical component groove is formed in a part of the first housing.

According to various example embodiments, the electrical component groove may be formed obliquely to a longitudinal direction of the hinge assembly.

According to various example embodiments, an opening may be formed in an area of the electrical component waterproof member corresponding to a position of the electrical component.

According to various example embodiments, the first support may comprise polycarbonate.

According to various example embodiments, the electronic device may further include a buffer piece (e.g., the buffer member <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed between the first support member and the flexible display.

According to various example embodiments, a first vent hole (e.g., the first vent hole <NUM> of <FIG>) may be formed in the first housing, and second electrical component holes (e.g., the second electrical component holes <NUM> of <FIG>) may be formed in the second housing.

According to various example embodiments, based on the second housing being folded against the first housing, a position of at least one of the second electrical component holes may correspond to a position of the first vent hole.

According to various example embodiments, a second vent hole (e.g., the second vent hole <NUM> of <FIG>) may be formed in the second housing.

According to various example embodiments, based on the second housing being folded against the first housing, a position of the first electrical component hole may correspond to a position of the second vent hole.

According to various example embodiments, the electrical component may include at least one of a microphone (e.g., the microphone <NUM> of <FIG>) or an illuminance sensor (e.g., the illuminance sensor <NUM> of <FIG>).

According to various example embodiments, the first adhesive member may be adhered to the flexible display and the hinge module.

According to various example embodiments, the first waterproof member may be adhered to the first housing and the flexible display.

According to various example embodiments, the electrical component waterproof member may be adhered to the first housing.

An electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>) according to various example embodiments of the disclosure includes a first housing (e.g., the first housing <NUM> of <FIG>), a second housing (e.g., the second housing <NUM> of <FIG>), a hinge assembly (e.g., the hinge assembly <NUM> of <FIG>) including a hinge disposed between the first housing and the second housing, and including a hinge plate (e.g., the hinge plate <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>) and a hinge module (e.g., the hinge module <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>) disposed at both ends of the hinge plate in a longitudinal direction of the hinge plate, a first circuit board (e.g., the first circuit board <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed in the first housing, a second circuit board (e.g., the second circuit board <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed in the second housing, a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed on the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge assembly, a first waterproof member (e.g., the first waterproof member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising a waterproof material disposed between the first housing and the flexible display. An electronic device may include a second waterproof member (e.g., the second waterproof member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising a waterproof material disposed between the second housing and the flexible display. An electronic device includes first adhesive member (e.g., the first adhesive member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising an adhesive. An electronic device may include a second adhesive member (e.g., the second adhesive member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising an adhesive disposed between the hinge module and the flexible display. An electronic device includes an electrical component (e.g., the electrical component <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed between the first waterproof member and the first adhesive member, an electrical component waterproof member (e.g., the electrical component waterproof member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising a waterproof material disposed between the electrical component and the flexible display, a first support (e.g., the first support member <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed between the electrical component waterproof member and the flexible display. An electronic device may include a vent groove (e.g., the vent groove <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed between the second waterproof member and the second adhesive member, a vent groove waterproof member (e.g., the vent groove waterproof member <NUM> of <FIG>) comprising a waterproof material disposed between the vent groove and the flexible display, and a second support (e.g., the second support member <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed between the vent groove waterproof member and the flexible display. An electrical component groove (e.g., the electrical component groove <NUM> of <FIG>) is formed in the first housing. The electrical component is disposed in an area of the first circuit board corresponding to the electrical component groove, and covered by the electrical component waterproof member, a first electrical component hole (e.g., the first electrical component hole <NUM> of <FIG>) communicating with the electrical component groove is formed in a part of the first housing, and a vent hole (e.g., the vent hole <NUM> of <FIG>) communicating with the vent groove may be formed in a part of the second housing.

According to various example embodiments, the electrical component groove and the vent groove may be formed obliquely to a longitudinal direction of the hinge assembly.

According to various example embodiments, an opening may be formed in an area of the first waterproof member corresponding to the vent groove, and an opening may be formed in an area of the second waterproof member corresponding to the electrical component.

According to various example embodiments, the vent hole may include a first vent hole (e.g., the first vent hole <NUM> of <FIG>) and a second vent hole (e.g., the second vent hole <NUM> of <FIG>), the first vent hole may be formed in the first housing, the second vent hole may be formed in the second housing, and the electronic device may further include second electrical component holes (e.g., the second electrical component holes <NUM> of <FIG>) formed in the second housing.

According to various example embodiments, based on the second housing being folded against the first housing, a position of the first electrical component hole may correspond to a position of the second vent hole, and a position of at least one of the second electrical component holes may correspond to a position of the first vent hole.

According to various example embodiments, the first adhesive member and the second adhesive member may be adhered to the flexible display and the hinge plate, the first waterproof member may be adhered to the first housing and the flexible display, the second waterproof member may be adhered to the second housing and the flexible display, the electrical component waterproof member may be adhered to the first housing, and the vent groove waterproof member may be adhered to the second housing.

Claim 1:
An electronic device (<NUM>) comprising:
a first housing (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a second housing (<NUM>);
a hinge assembly (<NUM>) comprising a hinge disposed between the first housing and the second housing, and including a hinge plate (<NUM>-<NUM>) and a hinge module (<NUM>-<NUM>) disposed at both ends of the hinge plate in a longitudinal direction of the hinge plate;
a first circuit board (<NUM>) disposed in the first housing;
a second circuit board (<NUM>) disposed in the second housing;
a flexible display (<NUM>) disposed on the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge assembly;
a first waterproof member (<NUM>) comprising a waterproof material disposed between the first housing and the flexible display;
characterised by further comprising:
a first adhesive member (<NUM>) comprising an adhesive disposed between the hinge module and the flexible display;
an electrical component (<NUM>) disposed between the first waterproof member and the first adhesive member;
an electrical component waterproof member (<NUM>) comprising a waterproof material disposed between the electrical component and the flexible display; and
a first support (<NUM>) disposed between the electrical component waterproof member and the flexible display,
wherein an electrical component groove (<NUM>) is formed in the first housing,
wherein the electrical component is disposed in an area of the first circuit board corresponding to the electrical component groove, and covered by the electrical component waterproof member, and
wherein a first electrical component hole coupled to the electrical component groove is formed in a part of the first housing.