Patent Description:
To facilitate the operations of capturing and displaying photographs or videos by an electronic device, an accessory supporting easy grip or stable pedestal for the electronic device has been developed. <CIT> discloses a protective case for a foldable mobile device. <CIT> discloses a sliding gripper attached to a mobile information terminal. <CIT> discloses a foldable protective shell for a mobile terminal. <CIT> discloses a protective case for a foldable portable terminal. <CIT> discloses a folding screen mobile phone shell.

Example embodiments of the disclosure may be an accessory that provides easy grip or stable pedestal for an electronic device and the electronic device including the same.

The invention is directed to an accessory for an electronic device including a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge cover connecting the first housing to the second housing, and the accessory includes a first cover configured to cover the first housing, a second cover configured to cover the second housing, a holder configured to receive a body part of a user, and a connector configured to connect the holder to the first cover and the second cover, wherein the connector is configured to have a first shape in an unfolded state of the electronic device, and have a second shape different from the first shape in a folded state of the electronic device, and wherein at least a portion of the connector is deformed in the second shape.

According to a non-claimed example embodiment, an accessory may be for an electronic device including a first housing and a second housing, the accessory may include a first cover configured to cover the first housing, a second cover configured to cover the second housing, a holder configured to receive a body part of a user, and a connector configured to connect the holder to the first cover and the second cover, wherein the first housing and the second housing are configured to slide between a first position in which the first housing and the second housing are spaced apart by a first distance and a second position in which the first housing and the second housing are spaced apart by a second distance greater than the first distance, wherein the connector is configured to have a first shape at the first position and have a second shape different from the first shape at the second position, and wherein at least a portion of the connector is deformed in the second shape.

The effects of the accessory and the electronic device including the same according to certain example embodiments are not limited to the above descriptions, and other unmentioned effects can be clearly understood from the following description by one of ordinary skill in the art.

According to certain example embodiments, an accessory, which is easily attached to and detached from an electronic device, may be provided.

According to certain example embodiments, an accessory allowing the user to easily hold (e.g., grip) an electronic device may be provided.

According to certain example embodiments, an accessory providing a stable pedestal for an electronic device may be provided.

Referring to <FIG>, an electronic device <NUM> in a network environment <NUM> may communicate with an electronic device <NUM> via a first network <NUM> (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or communicate with 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 example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may communicate with the electronic device <NUM> via the server <NUM>. According to an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a processor <NUM>, a 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 some example embodiments, at least one (e.g., the connecting terminal <NUM>) of the above 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 example embodiments, some (e.g., the sensor module <NUM>, the camera module <NUM>, or the antenna module <NUM>) of the components may be integrated as a single component (e.g., the display module <NUM>).

The processor <NUM> may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program <NUM>) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device <NUM> connected to the processor <NUM>, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to an example embodiment, as at least a part of data processing or computation, the processor <NUM> may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module <NUM> or the communication module <NUM>) in a volatile memory <NUM>, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory <NUM>, and store resulting data in a non-volatile memory <NUM>. According to an example embodiment, the processor <NUM> may include a main processor <NUM> (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)) or an auxiliary processor <NUM> (e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently of, or in conjunction with the main processor <NUM>. For example, when the electronic device <NUM> includes the main processor <NUM> and the auxiliary processor <NUM>, the auxiliary processor <NUM> may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor <NUM> or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor <NUM> may be implemented separately from the main processor <NUM> or as a part of the main processor <NUM>.

The auxiliary processor <NUM> may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one (e.g., the display module <NUM>, the sensor module <NUM>, or the communication module <NUM>) of the components of the electronic device <NUM>, instead of the main processor <NUM> while the main processor <NUM> is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state or along with the main processor <NUM> while the main processor <NUM> is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an example embodiment, the auxiliary processor <NUM> (e.g., an ISP or a CP) may be implemented as a portion of another component (e.g., the camera module <NUM> or the communication module <NUM>) that is functionally related to the auxiliary processor <NUM>. According to an example embodiment, the auxiliary processor <NUM> (e.g., an NPU) may include a hardware structure specified for artificial intelligence (AI) model processing. An AI model may be generated by machine learning. Such learning may be performed by, for example, the electronic device <NUM> in which an artificial intelligence model is executed, or performed via a separate server (e.g., the server <NUM>). Learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. An artificial neural network may include, for example, a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), and a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more thereof, but is not limited thereto. The AI model may additionally or alternatively include a software structure other than the hardware structure.

The non-volatile memory <NUM> may include an internal memory <NUM> and an external memory <NUM>.

The program <NUM> may be stored as software in the memory <NUM>, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS) <NUM>, middleware <NUM>, or an application <NUM>.

The sound output module <NUM> may output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device <NUM>. The receiver may be used to receive an incoming call. According to an example embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as a part of the speaker.

The display module <NUM> may include, for example, a control circuit for controlling a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, the hologram device, and the projector. According to an example embodiment, the display device <NUM> may include a touch sensor adapted to sense a touch, or a pressure sensor adapted to measure an intensity of a force incurred by the touch.

The audio module <NUM> may convert a sound into an electric signal or vice versa. According to an example embodiment, the audio module <NUM> may obtain the sound via the input device <NUM> or output the sound via the sound output device <NUM> or an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device <NUM> such as a speaker or a headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device <NUM>.

The sensor module <NUM> may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device <NUM> or an environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external to the electronic device <NUM>, and generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to an example embodiment, 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 embodiment, 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.

The connecting terminal <NUM> may include a connector via which the electronic device <NUM> may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>). According to an example embodiment, the connecting terminal <NUM> may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module <NUM> may convert an electric signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or an electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his or her tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. According to an example embodiment, the haptic module <NUM> may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

The camera module <NUM> may capture a still image and moving images. According to an example embodiment, the camera module <NUM> may include one or more lenses, image sensors, ISPs, or flashes.

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

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

The communication module <NUM> may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently of the processor <NUM> (e.g., an AP) and that support a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an example embodiment, 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). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device <NUM> via the first network <NUM> (e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth™, wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network <NUM> (e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a legacy cellular network, a <NUM> network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a wide area network (WAN)). The wireless communication module <NUM> may identify and authenticate the electronic device <NUM> in a communication network, such as the first network <NUM> or the second network <NUM>, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the SIM <NUM>.

The wireless communication module <NUM> may support a <NUM> network after a <NUM> network, and next-generation communication technology, e.g., new radio (NR) access technology. The wireless communication module <NUM> may support a high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band) to achieve, e.g., a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module <NUM> may support various technologies for securing performance on a high-frequency band, such as, e.g., beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (massive MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), an array antenna, analog beam-forming, or a large scale antenna. According to an example embodiment, the wireless communication module <NUM> may support a peak data rate (e.g., <NUM> Gbps or more) for implementing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., <NUM> dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., <NUM> or less for each of downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or a round trip of <NUM> or less) for implementing URLLC.

According to an example 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)). According to an example embodiment, the antenna module <NUM> may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in a communication network, such as the first network <NUM> or the second network <NUM>, may be selected by, for example, the communication module <NUM> from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may be transmitted or received between the communication module <NUM> and the external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. According to an example embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module <NUM>.

According to certain example embodiments, the antenna module <NUM> may form a mmWave antenna module. According to an example embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a PCB, an RFIC disposed on a first surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the PCB or adjacent to the first surface and capable of supporting a designated a high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on a second surface (e.g., a top or a side surface) of the PCB, or adjacent to the second surface and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

According to an example embodiment, 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>. Each of the external electronic devices <NUM> or <NUM> may be a device of the same type as or a different type from the electronic device <NUM>. According to an example embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed by the electronic device <NUM> may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. For example, if the electronic device <NUM> needs to perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device <NUM>, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and may transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device <NUM>. In another example embodiment, the external electronic device <NUM> may include an Internet-of-things (IoT) device. According to an example embodiment, the external electronic device <NUM> or the server <NUM> may be included in the second network <NUM>.

The electronic device according to certain example embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic device 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, or a home appliance device. According to an example embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic device is not limited to those described above.

It should be appreciated that certain example embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes or replacements for a corresponding embodiment. In connection with the description of the drawings, like reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. As used herein, "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 "A, B, or C," each of which may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding one of the phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may simply be used to distinguish the component from other components in question, and may refer to components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order) is not limited.

According to certain example embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately disposed in different components. According to certain example embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. In such a case, according to certain example embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components before the integration.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a foldable electronic device <NUM> may include a pair of housings <NUM> and <NUM> rotatably coupled to each other through a hinge structure to be folded with respect to each other, a hinge cover <NUM> for covering foldable portions of the pair of housings <NUM> and <NUM>, and a display <NUM> (e.g., flexible display or foldable display) disposed in a space formed by the pair of housings <NUM> and <NUM>. In the present disclosure, the surface on which the display <NUM> is disposed may be referred to as the front surface of the foldable electronic device <NUM>, and the surface opposite to the front surface may be referred to as the rear surface of the foldable electronic device <NUM>. In addition, the surface surrounding the space between the front surface and the rear surface may be referred to as the side surface of the foldable electronic device <NUM>.

In one example embodiment, the pair of housings <NUM> and <NUM> may include a first housing <NUM>, a second housing <NUM>, a first rear cover <NUM>, and a second rear cover <NUM>. The pair of housings <NUM> and <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> are not limited to the shapes or the combination and/or coupling of components shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, and may be implemented in other shapes or by another combination and/or coupling of components.

In an example embodiment, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be disposed on both sides (e.g., the upper portion and the lower portion) with respect to a folding axis A, and may be disposed substantially symmetrically with respect to the folding axis A. In an example embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may vary depending on whether the electronic device <NUM> is in an unfolded state, a folded state, or an intermediate state.

In an example embodiment, the first housing <NUM> may be connected to a hinge structure in the unfolded state of the electronic device <NUM>. The first housing <NUM> may include a first surface <NUM> for implementing the front surface of the electronic device <NUM>, a second surface <NUM> facing a direction opposite to the first surface <NUM>, and a first side portion <NUM> enclosing at least a portion of the space between the first surface <NUM> and the second surface <NUM>. The first side member <NUM> may include a first side surface 213a disposed substantially in parallel with the folding axis A, a second side surface 213b extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis A from one end of the first side surface 213a, and a third side surface 213c extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis A from another end of the first side surface 213a to be substantially parallel to the second side surface 213b. The second housing <NUM> may be connected to the hinge structure in the unfolded state of the electronic device <NUM>. The second housing <NUM> may include a third surface <NUM> for implementing the front surface of the electronic device <NUM>, a fourth surface <NUM> facing a direction opposite to the third surface <NUM>, and a second side portion <NUM> enclosing at least a portion of the space between the third surface <NUM> and the fourth surface <NUM>. The second side member <NUM> may include a fourth side surface 223a disposed substantially in parallel with the folding axis A, a fifth side surface 223b extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis A from one end of the fourth side surface 223a, and a sixth side surface 223c extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the folding axis A from another end of the fourth side surface 223a to be substantially parallel to the fifth side surface 223b. The first surface <NUM> and the third surface <NUM> may face each other when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a recessed accommodating portion <NUM> for accommodating the display <NUM> when the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are structurally coupled to each other. The accommodating portion <NUM> may have substantially the same size as the display <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, various portions of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be made of metal or non-metal. The materials may have a predetermined magnitude of rigidity appropriate to support the display <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a sound output module <NUM> (e.g., the sound output module <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed through at least a partial area of the first surface <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first rear cover <NUM> may be disposed on the second surface <NUM> of the first housing <NUM>, and may have a substantially rectangular periphery (e.g. having a rectangular shape with rounded corners). At least a portion of the periphery of the first rear cover <NUM> may be surrounded by the first housing <NUM>. The second rear cover <NUM> may be disposed on the fourth surface <NUM> of the second housing <NUM>, and may have a substantially rectangular periphery. At least a portion of the periphery of the second rear cover <NUM> may be surrounded by the second housing <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first rear cover <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis A. In another example embodiment, the first rear cover <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> may have different shapes. In still another example embodiment, the first housing <NUM> and the first rear cover <NUM> may be integrated together as a single component, and the second housing <NUM> and the second rear cover <NUM> may be integrated together.

In an example embodiment, the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the first rear cover <NUM>, and the second rear cover <NUM> may provide a space in which various components (e.g., a PCB, the antenna module <NUM> of <FIG>, the sensor module <NUM> of <FIG>, or the battery <NUM> of <FIG>) of the electronic device <NUM> may be disposed when the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the first rear cover <NUM>, and the second rear cover <NUM> are coupled to one another. In an example embodiment, at least one component may be visually exposed on the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM>. For example, at least one component may be visually exposed through a first rear area <NUM> of the first rear cover <NUM>. Here, the component may include a proximity sensor, a rear camera module, and/or a flash. In an example embodiment, at least a portion of a sub-display <NUM> may be visually exposed through a second rear area <NUM> of the first rear cover <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the display <NUM> may be disposed in the accommodating portion <NUM> formed by the pair of housings <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, the display <NUM> may be arranged to occupy substantially most of the front surface of the electronic device <NUM>. The front surface of the electronic device <NUM> may include an area in which the display <NUM> is disposed, and a partial area (e.g., periphery area) of the first housing <NUM> and a partial area (e.g., periphery area) of the second housing <NUM>, which are adjacent to the display <NUM>. The rear surface of the electronic device <NUM> may include the first rear cover <NUM>, a partial area (e.g., periphery area) of the first housing <NUM> adj acent to the first rear cover <NUM>, the second rear cover <NUM>, and a partial area (e.g., periphery area) of the second housing <NUM> adjacent to the second rear cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the display <NUM> may be a display in which at least one area is deformable into a planar surface or a curved surface. In an example embodiment, the display <NUM> may include a folding area 261c, a first area 261a on a first side (e.g., the upper side) of the folding area 261c, and a second area 261b on a second side (e.g., the lower side) of the folding area 261c. For example, the first area 261a may be disposed in the first surface <NUM> of the first housing <NUM>, and the second area 261b may be disposed in the third surface <NUM> of the second housing <NUM>. However, the area division of the display <NUM> shown in <FIG> is merely an example, and the display <NUM> may be divided into a plurality of areas depending on the structure or functions of the display <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the display <NUM> may be divided into areas based on the folding axis A or the folding area 261c extending in parallel to the x-axis. But alternatively, the display <NUM> may be divided into areas based on another folding area (e.g., folding area extending in parallel to a y-axis) or another folding axis (e.g., folding axis parallel to the y-axis). The area division of the display <NUM> is based on the structures of housings <NUM> and <NUM> and the hinge structure, and the display <NUM> may display substantially one screen without interruption. In an example embodiment, the first area 261a and the second area 261b may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding area 261c.

In an example embodiment, the hinge cover <NUM> may be disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> and configured to cover the hinge structure. The hinge cover <NUM> may be hidden by at least a portion of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> or be exposed to the outside of the device depending on the operating state of the electronic device <NUM>. For example, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state as shown in <FIG>, the hinge cover <NUM> may be hidden by the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> and not be exposed, and when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state as shown in <FIG>, the hinge cover <NUM> may be exposed and be visible from the outside of the device between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. Meanwhile, when the electronic device <NUM> is in an intermediate state in which the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> form an angle between <NUM> and <NUM> degrees, at least a portion of the hinge cover <NUM> may be exposed between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. In this case, the exposed area of the hinge cover <NUM> may be smaller than the exposed area of the hinge cover <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state. In an example embodiment, the hinge cover <NUM> may have curved surfaces.

When the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., the state of the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>), the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may form a first angle (e.g., about <NUM> degrees) with each other, and the first area 261a and the second area 261b of the display <NUM> may be oriented to be in substantially the same direction. The folded area 261c of the display <NUM> may be on substantially the same plane as the first area 261a and the second area 261b. In another example embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state, the first housing <NUM> may be rotated to be at a second angle (e.g., about <NUM> degrees) relative to the second housing <NUM>, such that the second surface <NUM> and the fourth surface <NUM> may face each other (this may be referred to as the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> being reversely folded). Meanwhile, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., the state of the electronic device <NUM> of <FIG>), the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may face each other. The first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may form an angle of about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, and the first area 261a and the second area 261b of the display <NUM> may face each other. At least a portion of the folding area 261c of the display <NUM> may be deformed into a curved surface. Meanwhile, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the intermediate state, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may form a predetermined angle between each other. The angle (e.g., third angle at about <NUM> degrees) formed by the first area 261a and the second area 261b of the display <NUM> may be greater than that when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state and less than that when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state. At least a portion of the folding area 261c of the display <NUM> may be deformed into a curved surface. In this case, the curvature of the curved surface of the folding area 261c may be smaller than that when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state.

Certain example embodiments of the electronic device described herein are not limited to the form factor of the electronic device <NUM> described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, and may also apply to electronic devices with other form factors.

Referring to <FIG>, an accessory <NUM> for an electronic device <NUM> (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>) may be easily attached to the electronic device <NUM>, easily held by a user, and may have a structure that can be easily decorated by the user without risking substantial damage on the electronic device <NUM> and/or the accessory <NUM>.

The accessory <NUM> includes a first cover <NUM> to cover a first housing <NUM> (e.g., the first housing <NUM>) and a second cover <NUM> to cover a second housing <NUM> (e.g., the second housing <NUM>). The first cover <NUM> may include a first base surface 371a, which is placed on a surface (e.g., the second surface <NUM> or the rear surface) of the first housing <NUM>, and a plurality of first side surfaces 371b respectively connected to at least some edges of the edges of the first base surface 371a and respectively placed on a plurality of first side portions <NUM> of the first housing <NUM> to enclose at least a portion of the first housing <NUM> with the first base surface 371a. The second cover <NUM> may include a second base surface 372a, which is placed on a surface (e.g., the fourth surface <NUM> or the rear surface) of the second housing <NUM>, and a plurality of second side surfaces 372b respectively connected to at least some edges of the edges of the second base surface 372a and respectively placed on a plurality of second side portions <NUM> of the second housing <NUM> to enclose a portion of the second housing <NUM> with the second base surface 372a. When the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>), the normal direction of the first base surface 371a and the normal direction of the second base surface 372a may substantially form a first angle (e.g., approximately <NUM> degrees). When the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>), the normal direction of the first base surface 371a and the normal direction of the second base surface 372a may substantially form a second angle (e.g., approximately <NUM> degrees).

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM> may be spaced apart from each other to form a gap G. When the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>), a portion of a hinge cover <NUM> (e.g., the hinge cover <NUM>) may be exposed through between the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>, but the gap G may be small enough in the unfolded state that the hinge cover <NUM> may not be substantially exposed. However, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>), most of the hinge cover <NUM> may be exposed through the gap G between the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a sub-display <NUM> (e.g. the sub-display <NUM>), a sensor module <NUM> (e.g., the sensor module <NUM>), and/or a first slot 371c that exposes a camera module <NUM> (e.g., the camera module <NUM>). The first slot 371c may extend along at least a portion of the plurality of first side surfaces 371b of the first cover <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a second slot 371d that exposes an input module <NUM> (e.g., the input module <NUM>). The second slot 371d may be formed on a portion of at least one of the plurality of first side surfaces 371b.

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a protruding portion 371e enclosing another input module (e.g., button). When force by the user is applied to the protruding portion 371e, the force may be delivered to the input module enclosed by the protruding portion 371e. The protruding portion 371e may be formed on a portion of at least one of the first side surfaces 371b adjacent to the second slot 371d.

In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include a first notch 372c that expose a connecting terminal <NUM> (e.g., the connecting terminal <NUM>). The first notch 372c may be formed on at least one of the second side surfaces 372b. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include a second notch 372d formed on another one of the second side surfaces 372b.

On the other hand, the second slot 371d that exposes the input module <NUM> and the first notch 372c that exposes the connecting terminal <NUM> and/or the protruding portion 371e enclosing another input module (e.g., button) are not limited to the illustrated examples, and the shape, the form, and/or the position of the slot and/or the notch may vary based on various configurations of the electronic device <NUM>, in particular the configurations of the input module <NUM>, the other input module (e.g., the button), the connecting terminal <NUM>, and other input and connecting components.

In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may extend along an edge <NUM> of the second base surface 372a on which the second side surface 372b is not formed, and may include a pair of second coupling ribs <NUM> and <NUM> spaced apart from each other based on a second gap G2 and respectively placed on the second base surface 372a and between a pair of the second side surfaces 372b that are facing each other. The pair of second coupling ribs <NUM> and <NUM> may be configured to couple (e.g., interference fit) to the second housing <NUM>. Although not shown herein, the first cover <NUM> may extend along an edge <NUM> of the first base surface 371a on which the first side surface 371b is not formed, and may similarly include a pair of first coupling ribs spaced apart from each other based on a third gap and respectively placed between the first base surface 371a and a pair of the first side surfaces 371b that are facing each other. The pair of first coupling ribs may be configured to couple (e.g., interference fit) to the first housing <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a first recess <NUM> formed on at least a portion of the first base surface 371a. In an example embodiment, the first recess <NUM> and the first slot 371c may together form the first base surface 371a. In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a first lid <NUM> configured to cover the first recess <NUM>. For example, the first recess <NUM> may be formed on at least a portion of a surface of the first lid <NUM>. As another example, the first recess <NUM> may be formed on at least a portion of a surface of the first cover <NUM> facing toward the first housing <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include a second recess <NUM> formed on at least a portion of the second base surface 372a. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include at least one support rib <NUM> placed in the second recess <NUM> and extending along the second side surface 372b. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include a second lid <NUM> configured to cover the second recess <NUM>. For example, the second recess <NUM> may be formed on at least a portion of a surface of the second lid <NUM>. As another example, the second recess <NUM> may be formed on at least a portion of a surface of the second cover <NUM> facing toward the second housing <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, at least a portion of the first cover <NUM> and at least a portion of the second cover <NUM> may be made of a substantially transparent material, however, the example is not limited thereto. In another example embodiment, at least a portion of the first cover <NUM> and at least a portion of the second cover <NUM> may be made of a substantially opaque material.

The accessory <NUM> includes a holder <NUM> for the user to hold the electronic device <NUM>. The holder <NUM> may have a shape to which a finger of the user may be inserted. In an example embodiment, the user may insert a finger into the holder <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>), and may grip or handle the holder <NUM>, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>). In an example embodiment, the holder <NUM> may include a linear portion 373a and a curved portion 373b connected to the linear portion 373a to form a closed loop (e.g., ring) with the linear portion 373a. In an example embodiment, the holder <NUM> may include a coupling portion 373c connected to the linear portion 373a. In an example embodiment, the linear portion 373a, the curved portion 373b, and the coupling portion 373c may be seamlessly and integrally formed. In an example embodiment, the holder <NUM> may include at least one (e.g., two) coupler 373d for coupling the coupling portion 373c. For example, the coupler 373d may be a rivet.

The accessory <NUM> includes a connector <NUM> configured to connect the holder <NUM> to the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>. The connector <NUM> may include a first connector <NUM> and a second connector <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the connector <NUM> may be referred to as a connecting part or a sheet part. For example, the first connector <NUM> may be described as a first connecting part or a first sheet part, and the second connector <NUM> may be described as a second connecting part and a second sheet part.

In an example embodiment, the first connector <NUM> may include a first coupling portion 375a coupling to the first cover <NUM>, a first deformable portion 375b, which is placed between the first cover <NUM> and the holder <NUM> and may be deformed based on the folded state and the unfolded state of the electronic device <NUM>. The first connector <NUM> may further include a first neck 375c connecting the first coupling portion 375a to the first deformable portion 375b. The second connector <NUM> may include a second coupling portion 376a coupling to the second cover <NUM>, a second deformable portion 376b, which is placed between the second cover <NUM> and the holder <NUM> and may be deformed based on the folded state and the unfolded state of the electronic device <NUM>. The second connector <NUM> may further include a second neck 376c connecting the second coupling portion 376a to the second deformable portion 376b.

In another example embodiment, the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM> may include a plurality of deformable portions respectively. In another example embodiment, one of the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM> may include a deformable portion and the other one may not include the deformable portion. In another example embodiment, a single deformable portion may be formed between the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first coupling portion 375a may be coupled to the first cover <NUM> by being accommodated in the first recess <NUM> and being covered by the first lid <NUM>. The second coupling portion 376a may be coupled to the second cover <NUM> by being accommodated in the second recess <NUM> and being covered by the second lid <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the first lid <NUM> may be removed from the first cover <NUM> and the first coupling portion 375a may be detached from the first recess <NUM>. The second lid <NUM> may be removed from the second cover <NUM> and the second coupling portion 376a may be detached from the second recess <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second coupling portion 376a may be supported by the at least one support rib <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the first coupling portion 375a and the second coupling portion 376a may be implemented as sheets. The structure described above may allow the user to exchange different first lids <NUM> and/or second lids <NUM> having different designs, thereby allowing the user to decorate the device without damaging on the accessory <NUM>.

In another example embodiment, the first coupling portion 375a and the second coupling portion 376a may be integrated with the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>, respectively. For example, the first coupling portion 375a and the first cover <NUM>, and the second coupling portion 376a and the second cover <NUM> may be integrated together, respectively, by insertion, double injection, and another suitable method.

In an example embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>), the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may be substantially face each other. In an example embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>), the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may be substantially parallel with each other.

In an example embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>), the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may be in a shape curved outwardly while enclosing at least a portion of the hinge cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, as the electronic device <NUM> is the folded (e.g., from <FIG>), the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may expand in a radial direction from the hinge cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>), the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM> may be configured to enclose at least a portion of the hinge cover <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the length of the first deformable portion 375b and the length of the second deformable portion 376b may be configured to substantially remain the same while the electronic device <NUM> changes between the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>) and the folded state (e.g., <FIG>). In another example embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> changes between the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>) and the folded state (e.g., <FIG>), the length of the first deformable portion 375b and the length of the second deformable portion 376b may change.

In an example embodiment, the distance between the coupler 373d and the hinge cover <NUM> may vary between a first distance L1 (e.g., the perpendicular distance in <FIG>) when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>) and a second distance L2 (e.g., the perpendicular distance in <FIG>), which is less than the first distance L1, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>). When the electronic device <NUM> changes between the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>) and the folded state (e.g., <FIG>), the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may implement the change in distance between the coupler 373d and the hinge cover <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the distance (e.g., separation distance) between the holder <NUM> and a cover (e.g., the first cover <NUM> or the second cover <NUM>) may vary between a third distance L3 (e.g., the perpendicular distance between the coupler 373d and the first base 371a shown in <FIG>) when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>), and a fourth distance L4 (e.g., the perpendicular distance between the coupler 373d and an end portion surface of the first cover <NUM> or the perpendicular distance between the coupler 373d and an end portion surface of the second cover <NUM> shown in <FIG>), which is less than the third distance L3, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>).

In an example embodiment, the distance (e.g., separation distance) of the holder <NUM> and a housing (e.g., the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM>) may vary between (i) a fifth distance L5 (e.g., in <FIG>, the perpendicular distance between the coupler 373d and a surface (e.g., the rear surface or the second surface <NUM>) of the first housing <NUM> or the perpendicular distance between the coupler 373d and a surface (e.g., the rear surface or the fourth surface <NUM>) of the second housing <NUM>), when the electronic device <NUM> is in the unfolded state (e.g., <FIG>) and (ii) a sixth distance L6 (e.g., in <FIG>, the perpendicular distance between the coupler 373d and another surface (e.g., the end portion surface) of the first housing <NUM> or the perpendicular distance between the coupler 373d and another surface (e.g., the end portion surface) of the second housing <NUM>), when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>). The sixth distance L6 is less than the fifth distance L5.

In an example embodiment, the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may respectively include at least one hole H, which may be coupled to the coupler 373d. The at least one hole H of the first deformable portion 375b may be substantially aligned with the at least one hole H of the second deformable portion 376b.

In another example embodiment, the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may be seamlessly integrated together to form a single deformable portion.

In an example embodiment, the length of the first deformable portion 375b, the length of the first neck 375c, the length of the second deformable portion 376b, and the length of the second neck 376c may be determined by a thickness (e.g., thickness of the first housing <NUM>, thickness of the second housing <NUM>, and/or thickness of the hinge cover <NUM>) of the electronic device <NUM> and/or the shape of the electronic device <NUM>. For example, a total length, which is a sum of the length of the first deformable portion 375b, the length of the first neck 375c, the length of the second deformable portion 376b, and the length of the second neck 376c, may be determined by Equation <NUM>.

Here, L may denote the total length, A may denote the thickness of the electronic device <NUM>, when the electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state (e.g., <FIG>), and B may denote a constant based on the shape of the electronic device <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first connector <NUM> and the second connector <NUM> may have any appropriate hardness, thickness, and/or width to prevent tearing when used.

In an example embodiment, at least a portion of the first connector <NUM> and at least a portion of the second connector <NUM> may be substantially transparent or opaque. For example, at least a portion of the first connector <NUM> and at least a portion of the second connector <NUM> may be made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

In an example embodiment, at least a portion of the first connector <NUM> and at least a portion of the second connector <NUM> may be made of polymer. For example, at least a portion of the first connector <NUM> and at least a portion of the second connector <NUM> may be made of polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and/or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS) resin.

In an example embodiment, at least a portion of the first connector <NUM> and at least a portion of the second connector <NUM> may be implemented as a flexible sheet. For example, at least a portion of the first connector <NUM> and at least a portion of the second connector <NUM> may be made of a carbon fibers sheet.

Referring to <FIG>, an accessory <NUM> (e.g., the accessory <NUM>) may include a first cover (e.g., the first cover <NUM>), a second cover (e.g., the second cover <NUM>), a holder <NUM> (e.g., the holder <NUM>), and a connector <NUM> (e.g., the connector <NUM>). The connector <NUM> may include a first coupling portion 475a (e.g., the first coupling portion 375a), a second coupling portion 476a (e.g., the second coupling portion 376a), a first deformable portion (e.g., the first deformable portion 375b), a second deformable portion 476b (e.g., the second deformable portion 376b), a first neck 475c (e.g., the first neck 375c), a second neck 476c (e.g., the second neck 376c), and a wrapper 474a. The wrapper 474a may connect the first deformable portion to the second deformable portion 476b, and may enclose at least a portion (e.g., the linear portion 373a) of the holder <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the wrapper 474a may be bonded (e.g., stitched, bonded) to at least a portion of the holder <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an accessory <NUM>' (e.g., the accessory <NUM>) may include a first cover (e.g., the first cover <NUM>), a second cover (e.g., the second cover <NUM>), the holder <NUM> (e.g., the holder <NUM>), and a connector <NUM>' (e.g., the connector <NUM>). The connector <NUM>' may include a first coupling portion 475a' (e.g., the first coupling portion 375a), a second coupling portion 476a' (e.g., the second coupling portion 376a), a first neck 475c' (e.g., the first neck 375c), a second neck 476c' (e.g., the second neck 376c), the wrapper 474a, and a stitch 474b.

In an example embodiment, the connector <NUM>' may not include a deformable portion (e.g., the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b) configured to deform based on changes in the state of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>). In another example embodiment, the connector <NUM>' may include a first deformable portion (e.g., the first deformable portion 375b) between the first coupling portion 475a' and the first neck 475c', and a second deformable portion (e.g., the second deformable portion 376b) between the second coupling portion 476a' and the second neck 476c'.

In an example embodiment, the first coupling portion 475a' and the first neck 475c' may have substantially the same width. In another example embodiment, the first coupling portion 475a' and the first neck 475c' may have different widths. In an example embodiment, the second coupling portion 476a' and the second neck 476c' may have substantially the same width. In another example embodiment, the second coupling portion 476a' and the second neck 476c' may have different widths.

In an example embodiment, the stitch 474b may bond at least a portion of the first neck 475c' to at least a portion of the second neck 476c'. This may improve durability of the connector <NUM>' as the user continuously and/or repeatedly uses the holder <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the stitch 474b may further bond at least a portion of the first neck 475c' to at least a portion of the second neck 476c' after a portion of the first neck 475c' is bonded to a portion of the second neck 476c' by a different method (e.g., thermocompression bonding).

Referring to <FIG>, an accessory <NUM>" (e.g., the accessory <NUM>) may include a first cover <NUM>" (e.g., the first cover <NUM>), a second cover <NUM>" (e.g., the second cover <NUM>), the holder <NUM> (e.g., the holder <NUM>), and a connector <NUM>" (e.g., the connector <NUM>). The connector <NUM>" may include a first coupling portion 475a" (e.g., the first coupling portion 375a), a second coupling portion 476a" (e.g., the second coupling portion 376a), a first neck 475c" (e.g., the first neck 375c), and a second neck 476c" (e.g., the second neck 376c).

In an example embodiment, the connector <NUM>" may not include a deformable portion (e.g., the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b) configured to deform based on changes in the state of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>). In another example embodiment, the connector <NUM>" may include a first deformable portion (e.g., the first deformable portion 375b) between the first coupling portion 475a" and the first neck 475c", and a second deformable portion (e.g., the second deformable portion 376b) between the second coupling portion 476a" and the second neck 476c".

In an example embodiment, the first neck 475c" and the second neck 476c" may be bonded by thermocompression bonding. When the first neck 475c" and the second neck 476c", each having a first thickness, are bonded by thermocompression bonding, an integrated bonding structure of the first neck 475c" and the second neck 476c" having a reduced second thickness less than the first thickness (e.g., approximately half of the first thickness) may be formed. After thermocompression bonding, a reduced gap G' may be formed between the first cover <NUM>" and the second cover <NUM>", or the gap G' may be substantially eliminated between the first cover <NUM>" and the second cover <NUM>".

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a holder <NUM> (e.g., the holder <NUM>) may include a linear portion 573a (e.g., the linear portion 373a), a curved portion 537b (e.g., the curved portion 373b), a coupling portion 573c (e.g., the coupling portion 373c), at least one coupler 573d (e.g., the coupler 373d), and a shaft 573e. The shaft 573e may connect the linear portion 573a to the coupling portion 573c, and may allow the linear portion 573a to be rotated about the coupling portion 573c. In an example embodiment, the shaft 573e may be connected to the linear portion 573a such that the shaft 573e may be rotated together with the linear portion 573a, and may be coupled to the coupling portion 573c such that the shaft 573e is stationary with respect to the coupling portion 573c. The structure described above may support for easy gripping of an accessory (e.g., the accessory <NUM>) and/or an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>) by the user because the closed loop structure may rotate when the user inserts a finger into the closed loop structure (e.g., substantially ring structure) formed by the linear portion 573a and the curved portion 537b. Meanwhile, the closed loop structure is not limited to the illustrated example, and may have various shapes (e.g., polygonal shape) that supports easy gripping by the user.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an accessory <NUM> (e.g., the accessory <NUM>) may include a first cover <NUM> including a first base surface 671a (e.g., the first base surface 371a), a second cover <NUM> including a second base surface 672a (e.g., the second base surface 372a), a holder <NUM> (e.g., the holder <NUM>), and a connector <NUM> (e.g., the connector <NUM>). The holder <NUM> and the connector <NUM> may be integrally formed with the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the connector <NUM> may include a first coupling portion 675a (e.g., the first coupling portion 375a) attached to the first base surface 671a, a second coupling portion 676a (e.g., the second coupling portion 376a) attached to the second base surface 672a, a first deformable portion 675b (e.g., the first deformable portion 375b), a second deformable portion 676b (e.g., the second deformable portion 376b), and a wrapper 674a (e.g., the wrapper 474a). The first coupling portion 675a, the second coupling portion 676a, the first deformable portion 675b, the second deformable portion 676b, and the wrapper 674a may be seamlessly integrated with each other. In an example embodiment, the holder <NUM> and the connector <NUM> may be made of different materials. For example, the holder <NUM> may be made of metal, an injection material (e.g., PC, TPU, and ABS), or any other appropriate rigid material, however, the connector <NUM> may be made of silicone, TPU, plastics with a leather texture, leather, or any other appropriate material. In another example embodiment, the holder <NUM> and the connector <NUM> may be substantially the same material. In an example embodiment, the first coupling portion 675a may be attached to a portion of the first base surface 671a, and the second coupling portion 676a may be attached to a portion of the second base surface 672a.

In an example embodiment, an adhesive member (e.g., bonding member such as double-sided tape) may be disposed between the first coupling portion 675a and the first base surface 671a and/or between the second coupling portion 676a and the second base surface 672a.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an accessory <NUM> (e.g., the accessory <NUM>) for an electronic device <NUM> (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>) may include a first cover (e.g., the first cover <NUM>), a second cover <NUM> (e.g., the second cover <NUM>), a holder <NUM> (e.g., the holder <NUM>), and a connector <NUM> (e.g., the connector <NUM>). The connector <NUM> may include a first connector <NUM> (e.g., the first connector <NUM>) and a second connector <NUM> (e.g., the second connector <NUM>). The first connector <NUM> may include a first coupling portion 775a (e.g., the first coupling portion 375a), a first deformable portion 775b (e.g., the first deformable portion 375b), and a first neck 775c (e.g., the first neck 375c). The second connector <NUM> may include a second coupling portion 776a (e.g., the second coupling portion 376a), a second deformable portion 776b (e.g., the second deformable portion 376b), and a second neck 776c (e.g., the second neck 376c).

In an example embodiment, at least a portion of the first deformable portion 775b and the second deformable portion 776b may be made of a first material, and at least a portion of the first coupling portion 775a, the first neck 775c, the second coupling portion 776a, and the second neck 776c may be made of a second material different from the first material. For example, the hardness of the first material may be greater than the hardness of the second material. The material characteristic of the first deformable portion 775b and the second deformable portion 776b may allow the accessory <NUM> to become a stable pedestal or stand for the electronic device <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is tilted and placed on a flat surface such as a table or the ground.

In an example embodiment, the first connector <NUM> may include the first reinforcing portion 775d placed on at least a portion of the first deformable portion 775b. The first reinforcing portion 775d may be attached to at least a portion of the first deformable portion 775b. The second connector <NUM> may include a second reinforcing portion 776d placed on at least a portion of the second deformable portion 776b. The second reinforcing portion 776d may be attached to at least a portion of the second deformable portion 776b. The first reinforcing portion 775d may reinforce the first deformable portion 775b, the second reinforcing portion 776d may reinforce the second deformable portion 776b, and thus, the first reinforcing portion 775d and the second reinforcing portion 776d may support stable pedestal or stand for the electronic device <NUM> when the electronic device <NUM> is tilted and placed on a flat surface. In an example embodiment, the first reinforcing portion 775d and the second reinforcing portion 776d may be made of substantially the same material (e.g., TPU) as the first deformable portion 775b and the second deformable portion 776b. However, the example is not limited thereto, and the material forming the first reinforcing portion 775d, the second reinforcing portion 776d, the first deformable portion 775b, and the second deformable portion 776b may be any material appropriate to support stable pedestal or stand for the electronic device <NUM>, or a combination thereof.

In an example embodiment, at least a portion of the first connector <NUM> and at least a portion of the second connector <NUM> may have the appropriate thickness and/or hardness for supporting stable pedestal or stand for the electronic device <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an accessory <NUM> (e.g., the accessory <NUM>) of an electronic device <NUM> may include a first cover <NUM> (e.g., the first cover <NUM>), a second cover <NUM> (e.g., the second cover <NUM>), a holder <NUM> (e.g., the holder <NUM>), and a connector <NUM> (e.g., the connector <NUM>). The connector <NUM> may include a first connector <NUM> (e.g., the first connector <NUM>) and a second connector <NUM> (e.g., the second connector <NUM>). The first connector <NUM> may include a first coupling portion 875a (e.g., the first coupling portion 375a), a first deformable portion 875b (e.g., the first deformable portion 375b), and a first neck 875c (e.g., the first neck 375c). The second connector <NUM> may include a second coupling portion 876a (e.g., the second coupling portion 376a), a second deformable portion 876b (e.g., the second deformable portion 376b), and a second neck 876c (e.g., the second neck 376c).

The electronic device <NUM> according to an example embodiment, may include a first housing <NUM> (e.g., the first housing <NUM>) and a second housing <NUM> (e.g., the second housing <NUM>), which are spaced apart from each other and configured to slide with respect to each other. The first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be slid between a first position (e.g., <FIG>) in which the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are relatively close to each other and are spaced apart from each other by a first distance, and a second position (e.g., <FIG>) in which the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are relatively farther apart from each other and spaced apart from each other by a second distance than the first distance.

In an example embodiment, when the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are placed at the first position (e.g., <FIG>), the first deformable portion 875b and the second deformable portion 876b may substantially face each other. In an example embodiment, when the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are placed at the first position (e.g., <FIG>), the first deformable portion 875b and the second deformable portion 876b may substantially parallel with each other.

In an example embodiment, when the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are placed at the second position (e.g., <FIG>), the first deformable portion 875b and the second deformable portion 876b may be bent into a space between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. In an example embodiment, when the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are placed at the second position (e.g., <FIG>), a normal direction of a least a portion of the first deformable portion 875b and a normal direction of at least a portion of the second deformable portion 876b may be substantially parallel with each other. In an example embodiment, when the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are placed at the second position (e.g., <FIG>), at least a portion of the first deformable portion 875b and at least a portion of the second deformable portion 876b may be placed on substantially the same plane.

Referring to <FIG>, an electronic device <NUM> (e.g., the electronic device <NUM>) may include a first housing <NUM> (e.g., the first housing <NUM>), a second housing <NUM> (e.g., the second housing <NUM>), and a hinge cover <NUM> (e.g., the hinge cover <NUM>). An accessory <NUM> (e.g., the accessory <NUM>) for the electronic device <NUM> may include a first cover <NUM> (e.g., the first cover <NUM>), a second cover <NUM> (e.g., the second cover <NUM>), a holder <NUM> (e.g., the holder <NUM>), and a connector <NUM> (e.g., the connector <NUM>).

The first cover <NUM> may include a first base surface 971a (e.g., the first base surface 371a) and a plurality of first side surfaces 971b (e.g., the first side surfaces 371b). In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a first slot 971c (e.g., the first slot 371c). In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a second slot 971d (e.g., the second slot 371d). In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a first lid <NUM> (e.g., the first lid <NUM>). The second cover <NUM> may include a second base surface 972a (e.g., the second base surface 372a) and a plurality of second side surfaces 972b (e.g., the second side surfaces 372b). In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include a first notch 972c (e.g., the first notch 372c) and/or the second notch 972d (e.g., the second notch 372d). In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may include a second lid <NUM> (e.g., the second lid <NUM>).

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may be fixed to the first housing <NUM> via a first suction pad (not shown) when the first cover <NUM> is assembled with the first housing <NUM>. In an example embodiment, the second cover <NUM> may be fixed to the second housing <NUM> via a second suction pad (not shown) when the second cover <NUM> is assembled with the second housing <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a rib <NUM> configured to prevent or reduce escape of the first cover <NUM> from the first housing <NUM>. The rib <NUM> may restrict or delay sliding of the first cover <NUM> with respect to the first housing <NUM>. For example, the rib <NUM> may restrict or delay sliding of the first cover <NUM> away from the second cover <NUM> in the direction T shown in <FIG>. The rib <NUM> may reduce wear on the first suction pad (not shown) that may be used for the first cover <NUM>. In addition, when the first cover <NUM> is mounted on the housing <NUM>, the rib <NUM> may reduce or remove misalignment of the first cover <NUM> with respect to the first housing <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the rib <NUM> may be at least partially formed on the first base surface 971a and/or at least one of the pair of first side surfaces 971b positioned at two sides of the first base surface 971a. In an example embodiment, the rib <NUM> may be at least partially formed along the edge (e.g., an end base edge facing the second cover <NUM> or an edge of the first base surface 971a to which the first side surfaces 971b are not connected) of the first base surface 971a and/or the edge (e.g., an end side edge facing the second cover <NUM>) of at least one of the pair of side surfaces 971b. In an example embodiment, the rib <NUM> may be at least partially positioned in a gap between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>.

The accessory <NUM> according to the invention is for the electronic device <NUM> including the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the hinge cover <NUM> connecting the first housing <NUM> to the second housing <NUM>, and includes the first cover <NUM> to cover the first housing <NUM>, the second cover <NUM> to cover the second housing <NUM>, the holder <NUM> configured to receive a body part of the user to hold the electronic device <NUM>, and the connector <NUM> connecting the holder <NUM> to the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>, and the connector <NUM> is configured to have a first shape in an unfolded state of the electronic device <NUM>, and have a second shape different from the first shape in a folded state of the electronic device <NUM>. At least a portion of the connector <NUM> is deformed in the second shape.

In an example embodiment, the connector <NUM> may include the first deformable portion 375b disposed between the first cover <NUM> and the holder <NUM>, and the second deformable portion 376b disposed between the second cover <NUM> and the holder <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may be configured to enclose at least a portion of the hinge cover <NUM> in the folded state.

In an example embodiment, the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may be configured to face each other in the unfolded state.

In an example embodiment, the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may be configured to be bent outwardly in the folded state.

In an example embodiment, the connector <NUM> may include the first coupling portion 375a connected to the first deformable portion 375b and coupled to the first cover <NUM>, and the second coupling portion 376a connected to the second deformable portion 376b and coupled to the second cover <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first coupling portion 375a may be detachably coupled to the first cover <NUM>, and the second coupling portion 376a may be detachably coupled to the second cover <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may include a first recess <NUM> configured to be coupled by interference fit to the first coupling portion 375a, and the second cover <NUM> may include a second recess <NUM> configured to be coupled by interference fit to the second coupling portion 376a.

In an example embodiment, the accessory <NUM> may further include the rivet 373d configured to couple the holder <NUM> to the connector <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the connector <NUM> may further include the wrapper 474a connecting the first deformable portion 375b to the second deformable portion 376b or 476b, enclosing at least a portion of the holder, and configured to be coupled to the holder.

In an example embodiment, the connector may include the first coupling portion coupled to the first cover, the second coupling portion coupled to the second cover, the first neck disposed between the holder and the first coupling portion, the second neck disposed between the holder and the second coupling portion, and the stitch coupling the first neck to the second neck.

In an example embodiment, the connector may include the first coupling portion coupled to the first cover, the second coupling portion coupled to the second cover, the first neck disposed between the holder and the first coupling portion, and the second neck disposed between the holder and the second coupling portion, and the first neck and the second neck may be thermocompression bonded to each other.

In an example embodiment, the holder <NUM> or <NUM> may be configured to rotate on a connecting portion disposed between the holder <NUM> and the connector <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the holder <NUM> and the connector <NUM> may be integrated with the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, the first deformable portion 775b and the second deformable portion 776b may be made of a first material, and the first coupling portion 775a and the second coupling portion 776a may be made of a second material different from the first material.

In an example embodiment, the hardness of the first material may be greater than the hardness of the second material.

In an example embodiment, the accessory <NUM> may further include the first reinforcing portion 775d and the second reinforcing portion 776d attached to the first deformable portion 775b and the second deformable portion 776b, respectively.

In an example embodiment, the first cover <NUM> may further include the first base surface 971a, the plurality of first side surfaces 971b connected to some edges of the edges of the first base surface 971a, and the rib <NUM> formed at the edge of first base surface 971a and/or the edge of at least one of the pair of side surfaces 971a and 971b positioned on two sides of the first base surface 971a.

The electronic device <NUM> according to an example embodiment may include the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the hinge cover <NUM> connecting the first housing <NUM> to the second housing <NUM>, and the accessory <NUM> including the first cover <NUM> to cover the first housing <NUM>, the second cover <NUM> to cover the second housing <NUM>, the holder <NUM> configured to receive a body part of a user, and the connector <NUM> connecting the holder to the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>, and the connector <NUM> may be configured to have a first shape in an unfolded state of the electronic device <NUM>, and have a second shape different from the first shape in a folded state of the electronic device <NUM>. At least a portion of the connector <NUM> may be deformed in the second shape.

In an example embodiment, the first deformable portion 375b and the second deformable portion 376b may be configured to face each other in the unfolded state, and may be configured to be bent outwardly in the folded state.

The electronic device <NUM> according to an example embodiment may include the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, and the accessory <NUM> including the first cover <NUM> to cover the first housing <NUM>, the second cover <NUM> to cover the second housing <NUM>, the holder <NUM> configured to receive a body part of the user, the connector <NUM> connecting the holder <NUM> to the first cover <NUM> and the second cover <NUM>, and the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be configured to slide between a first position in which the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are spaced apart by a first distance and a second position in which the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are spaced apart by a second distance greater than the first distance, and the connector <NUM> may be configured to have a first shape at the first position and have a second shape different from the first shape at the second position. At least a portion of the connector <NUM> may be deformed in the second shape.

Claim 1:
An accessory (<NUM>) for an electronic device (<NUM>) comprising a first housing (<NUM>), a second housing (<NUM>), a hinge cover (<NUM>) connecting the first housing to the second housing, the accessory comprising:
a first cover (<NUM>) configured to cover the first housing;
a second cover (<NUM>) configured to cover the second housing;
a holder (<NUM>) configured to receive a body part of a user; and
a connector (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to connect the holder to the first cover and the second cover,
characterized in that the connector is configured to have a first shape in an unfolded state of the electronic device, and have a second shape different from the first shape in a folded state of the electronic device, and
wherein at least a portion of the connector is deformed in the second shape.