Patent Description:
A mobile device may be exposed to various environments because it is easy to carry. For example, the mobile device may be easily exposed to a rainy environment or a moist or wet environment.

<CIT> describes a foldable terminal comprising a waterproof structure.

<CIT> describes a foldable electronic device with a flexible display and a flexible printed circuit board extending from one of the folding housings through a hinge structure to the other folding housing.

If fluid infiltrates into the mobile device, the fluid may cause damage. Accordingly, various waterproof structures for mobile devices have been proposed.

Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide an electronic device according to the appended set of claims, the electronic device including a waterproof structure for protecting one or more parts disposed in the interior and on the exterior of the electronic device, by providing the waterproof structure of the electronic device that employs a hinge structure of a foldable electronic device. The figures and respective description relate to advantageous embodiments of the invention.

According to the embodiments of the disclosure, parts of an electronic device may be protected by applying a safer waterproof structure to a hinge area of the electronic device that employs a hinge structure.

Furthermore, the disclosure may provide a waterproof structure for a hinge structure of a foldable electronic device that is fold near the center.

<FIG> is a view illustrating an example of the exterior of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

<FIG> is a sectional view of the electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Here, <FIG> illustrates an example of a section taken along line A-A' of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment includes a first housing <NUM> (or a first frame), a second housing <NUM> (or a second frame), a display <NUM>, and may include a camera <NUM>.

Additionally, the electronic device <NUM> may further include a processor for driving the display <NUM>, a printed circuit board (PCB) (e.g., a first printed circuit board <NUM> or a second printed circuit board <NUM>) on which the processor is seated or otherwise coupled, includes
a first flexible PCB <NUM> disposed between the first printed circuit board <NUM> and the second printed circuit board <NUM>, connecting PCBs 71a and 72a that connect the first flexible PCB <NUM> and the printed circuit boards <NUM> and <NUM>, and may include
a battery for supplying power to the processor, communication circuitry, or an antenna.

At least one of the processor, the printed circuit board, the battery, the communication circuitry, or the antenna may be disposed in the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM>. In addition, the electronic device <NUM> further includes a hinge structure <NUM> that connects at least part of the first housing <NUM> and at least part of the second housing <NUM> and performs a hinge motion to allow the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> to form a predetermined angle therebetween. The hinge structure <NUM> may be disposed in the middle between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> may further include a first bezel 160a (or a first decoration) that is disposed on one side of the first housing <NUM> and a second bezel 160b (or a second decoration) that is disposed on one side of the second housing <NUM>. The first bezel 160a may be disposed to cover, for example, at least part of an edge on one side of the display <NUM> seated on the first housing <NUM>. The second bezel 160b may be disposed to cover, for example, at least part of an edge on an opposite side of the display <NUM> seated on the second housing <NUM>.

A first rear panel <NUM> may be disposed on at least part of the rear side of the first housing <NUM>, and a second rear panel <NUM> may be disposed on at least part of the rear side of the second housing <NUM>. At least part of the first rear panel <NUM> and at least part of the second rear panel <NUM> may be formed of at least one of glass, a ceramic material, a reinforced plastic material, an acrylic resin, or a combination thereof.

The first rear panel <NUM> may be disposed to cover at least part of the rear side of the first housing <NUM>. At this time, with regard to prevention of a fluid flow into the space inward of the rear side of the first housing <NUM>, waterproof members may be disposed on the edge of the first rear panel <NUM> that meets the first housing <NUM>. The waterproof members may include, for example, a first rear waterproof member 11a at least partially disposed between a first sidewall 110a and one side of the first rear panel <NUM> (e.g., the left edge of the first rear panel <NUM>) and a first cover waterproof member 11b at least partially disposed between one side of a first hinge cover 110c and an opposite side of the first rear panel <NUM> (e.g., the right edge of the first rear panel <NUM>). The second rear panel <NUM> may be disposed to cover at least part of the rear side of the second housing <NUM>. At this time, with regard to prevention of a fluid flow into the space inward of the rear side of the second housing <NUM>, waterproof members may be disposed on the edge of the second rear panel <NUM> that meets the second housing <NUM>. The waterproof members may include, for example, a second rear waterproof member 12a at least partially disposed between a second sidewall 120a and one side of the second rear panel <NUM> (e.g., the right edge of the second rear panel <NUM>) and a second cover waterproof member 12b at least partially disposed between one side of a second hinge cover 120c and an opposite side of the second rear panel <NUM> (e.g., the left edge of the second rear panel <NUM>).

At least part of the display <NUM> is disposed across the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. The display <NUM> has flexibility such that at least part of the central portion thereof is able to be bent at a specified angle or more. A rear side part <NUM> may be disposed on at least part of the rear surface of the display <NUM>. The rear side part <NUM> may serve to fix the display <NUM> to the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. Accordingly, at least part of the rear side part <NUM> may include an adhesive layer. Alternatively, the rear side part <NUM> may further include at least one of a heat dissipation layer for dissipating heat generated from the display <NUM> and a stress absorption layer (e.g., an elastic layer, or embo layer) for reducing an impact applied from the outside. The rear side part <NUM> may be provided in a separated form without being formed on the central portion of the display <NUM>.

At least part of the first housing <NUM> may be formed of at least one of a metal material, a ceramic material, an injection-molded material (or an injection-molded structure), or a combination thereof. The first housing <NUM> may include the first sidewall 110a, a first bottom part 110b, and the first hinge cover 110c.

The first sidewall 110a may be disposed to have a predetermined length and width in the vertical direction in the illustrated drawing. The first sidewall 110a may be disposed such that at least part of the first sidewall 110a surrounds at least part of the left edge of the display <NUM>. The first bottom part 110b may be disposed at a predetermined position on the first sidewall 110a and may have a predetermined area and width in a direction (e.g., the horizontal direction) that differs from the direction (e.g., the vertical direction) in which the first sidewall 110a is arranged. The first bottom part 110b may be disposed in the middle area of the first sidewall 110a in the horizontal direction with respect to the first sidewall 110a. Alternatively, the first bottom part 110b may be horizontally disposed at a point biased upward by a pre-designed height based on a middle point of the first sidewall 110a. A portion of the display <NUM> (e.g., the left area of the display <NUM>) may be disposed on the upper surface of the first bottom part <NUM>0b. The first bottom part 110b may have, on one side thereof, at least one first connecting hole 110b_2 vertically formed through the first bottom part 110b. A first connecting part 71b may be disposed in the first connecting hole 110b_2 and may connect the first connecting PCB 71a and the first printed circuit board <NUM> that are disposed on the upper surface and the lower surface of the first bottom part 110b, respectively.

According to various embodiments, the first connecting PCB 71a may be disposed to cover an opening (e.g., an upper opening) on one side of the first connecting hole 110b_2, and thus the electronic device <NUM> according to the embodiment may prevent an inflow of fluid through the first connecting hole 110b_2. In this regard, an adhesive layer having a waterproof function may be disposed between the first connecting PCB 71a and the periphery of the first connecting hole 110b_2. Alternatively, a peripheral portion of the first connecting PCB 71a that covers the first connecting hole 110b_2 may be formed of a material (e.g., rubber, a flexible plastic material, or an adhesive layer) that has a waterproof function. According to various embodiments, an additional adhesive layer having a waterproof function may be at least partially disposed between the first printed circuit board <NUM> and the periphery of the first connecting hole 110b_2.

The first hinge cover 110c may be provided at one end of the first bottom part 110b and may have a predetermined curvature. For example, in the illustrated drawing, the first hinge cover 110c may be provided at the right edge of the first bottom part 110b and may surround at least part of the outer surface of the hinge structure <NUM>.

The second housing <NUM> may be formed in a shape that is the same as or similar to that of the first housing <NUM> and may be formed of a material that is the same as or similar to that of the first housing <NUM>. For example, at least part of the second housing <NUM> may be formed of at least one of a metal material, a ceramic material, an injection-molded material (or an injection-molded structure), or a combination thereof. The second housing <NUM> may include the second sidewall 120a, a second bottom part 120b, and the second hinge cover 120c.

The second sidewall 120a may be disposed in a position opposite the first sidewall 110a with respect to the center of the display <NUM>, for example, at the right edge of the display <NUM> in the illustrated drawing. The second sidewall 120a may have a predetermined length and width in the vertical direction and may be disposed such that at least part of the second sidewall 120a surrounds at least part of the right edge of the display <NUM>.

The second bottom part 120b may be disposed at a predetermined position on the second sidewall 120a and may have a predetermined area and width in a direction (e.g., the horizontal direction) that differs from the direction (e.g., the vertical direction) in which the second sidewall 120a is arranged. For example, the second bottom part 120b may be disposed in a position that is symmetric to the first bottom part 110b with respect to the center of the display <NUM> in an unfolded state. Another portion of the display <NUM> (e.g., the right area of the display <NUM>) may be disposed on the upper surface of the second bottom part 120b. The second bottom part 120b may have, on one side thereof, at least one second connecting hole 120b_2 vertically formed through the second bottom part 120b.

A second connecting part 72b may be disposed in the second connecting hole 120b_2 and may connect the second connecting PCB 72a and the second printed circuit board <NUM> that are disposed on the upper surface and the lower surface of the second bottom part 120b, respectively. The second connecting hole 120b_2 may be disposed, for example, in a position that is symmetric to the position where the first connecting hole 110b_2 is disposed. Alternatively, the second connecting hole 120b_2 may be formed in the second bottom part 120b so as to be biased toward the second hinge cover 120c.

According to various embodiments, similarly to the first connecting PCB 71a, the second connecting PCB 72a may be disposed to cover at least part of an opening on one side of the second connecting hole 120b_2 and may support a waterproof function for the second connecting hole 120b_2. In this regard, an adhesive layer having a waterproof function may be at least partially disposed between the periphery of the second connecting hole 120b_2 and the second connecting PCB 72a. According to various embodiments, an adhesive layer having a waterproof function may be additionally disposed between the second printed circuit board <NUM> and the periphery of the second connecting hole 120b_2.

The second hinge cover 120c may be provided at one end of the second bottom part 120b and may have a predetermined curvature. For example, in the illustrated drawing, the second hinge cover 120c may be provided at the left edge of the second bottom part 120b and may surround at least part of the outer surface of the hinge structure <NUM>. At least part of the first hinge cover 110c and at least part of the second hinge cover 120c may be disposed to face each other. The first hinge cover 110c and the second hinge cover 120c may be provided having a half-pipe type and may be disposed to have a gap in the middle between the first hinge cover 110c and the second hinge cover 120c. Accordingly, when the display <NUM> is in a folded state, the first hinge cover 110c and the second hinge cover 120c may be separated from each other, and at least part of the exterior of the hinge structure <NUM> disposed inward of the first hinge cover 110c and the second hinge cover 120c may be exposed to the outside.

At least part of the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed in a predetermined area inside the first housing <NUM>. For example, the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed on one side of the rear surface of the first bottom part 110b. At least one part for driving the display <NUM> may be mounted on the first printed circuit board <NUM>. Alternatively, a part (e.g., at least one of the communication circuitry, the antenna, or a sensor) that is disposed in the first housing <NUM> may be mounted on the first printed circuit board <NUM>. The first printed circuit board <NUM> may be electrically connected with the second printed circuit board <NUM> through the connecting PCBs 71a and 72a. One side of the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed to close one end of the first connecting hole 110b_2 vertically formed through the first bottom part 110b (e.g., one end directed toward the rear surface of the first bottom part 110b). For example, in <FIG>, at least one surface of the right side of the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed to face the lower side of the first connecting hole 110b_2 and may close the lower side of the first connecting hole 110b_2.

At least part of the second printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed in a predetermined area inside the second housing <NUM>. For example, at least part of the second printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed on one side of the rear surface of the second bottom part 120b. The second printed circuit board <NUM> may include at least one part for driving the display <NUM> or a separately provided auxiliary display. Alternatively, a part (e.g., at least one of short-range communication circuitry, a short-range communication antenna, a rear camera, or a sensor) that is disposed in the second housing <NUM> may be mounted on the second printed circuit board <NUM>. The second printed circuit board <NUM> may be electrically connected with the first printed circuit board <NUM> through the connecting PCBs 71a and 72a and the first flexible PCB <NUM>. One side of the second printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed to close one end of the second connecting hole 120b_2 vertically formed through the second bottom part 120b (e.g., one end directed toward the rear surface of the second bottom part 120b).

The first connecting hole 110b_2 may be vertically formed through one side of the first bottom part 110b. For example, the first connecting hole 110b_2 may be provided on the one side of the first bottom part 110b and may be formed to be biased toward the first hinge cover 110c. In the illustrated drawing, the upper opening of the first connecting hole 110b_2 may be closed by at least part of the first connecting PCB 71a. The lower opening of the first connecting hole 110b_2 may be closed by at least part of the first printed circuit board <NUM>. A first protrusion 110b_1 may be provided inside the first connecting hole 110b_2. The first protrusion 110b_1 may protrude in a direction away from the inner wall of the first connecting hole 110b_2 and may have a predetermined height. A first waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on an upper portion of the first protrusion 110b_1, and a second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on a lower portion of the first protrusion 110b_1. At least part of the first waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to face one surface of the first connecting PCB 71a. At least part of the second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to face one surface of the first printed circuit board <NUM>.

The second connecting hole 120b_2 may be provided on one side of the second bottom part 120b and may be formed to be biased toward the second hinge cover 120c. In the illustrated drawing, the upper opening of the second connecting hole 120b_2 may be closed by at least part of the second connecting PCB 72a, and the lower opening of the second connecting hole 120b_2 may be closed by at least part of the second printed circuit board <NUM>. A second protrusion 120b_1 may be provided inside the second connecting hole 120b_2. The second protrusion 120b_1 may protrude from the inner wall of the second connecting hole 120b_2 and may have a predetermined height. A third waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on an upper portion of the second protrusion 120b_1, and a fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on a lower portion of the second protrusion 120b_1. At least part of the third waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to face one surface of the second connecting PCB 72a. At least part of the fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed to face one surface of the second printed circuit board <NUM>. According to various embodiments, in the case where at least one of the first connecting PCB 71a or the second connecting PCB 72a includes an adhesive layer to have a waterproof function while closing the connecting holes 110b_2 and 120b_2, at least one of the first to fourth waterproof members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> may be omitted. Alternatively, the electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments may include the first to fourth waterproof members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, thereby further improving a waterproof function.

The first connecting part 71b may include at least one interconnection wire that electrically connects the first connecting PCB 71a and the first printed circuit board <NUM>, and a substrate or structure on which the interconnection wire is disposed. The first connecting part 71b may be disposed to pass through the first connecting hole 110b_2. The upper surface of the first connecting part 71b may be connected to the first connecting PCB 71a, and the lower surface of the first connecting part 71b may be connected to the first printed circuit board <NUM>.

The first waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed at a location where the first connecting part 71b and the first connecting PCB 71a are connected, and may block an inflow of fluid from the outside. The second waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed at a location where the first connecting part 71b and the first printed circuit board <NUM> are connected, and may block an inflow of fluid from the outside. The first waterproof member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> may have a ring shape and may be respectively disposed on the upper surface and the lower surface of the first protrusion 110b_1. The first waterproof member <NUM> or the second waterproof member <NUM> may have a thickness that is the same as or greater than the height from the upper surface of the first protrusion 110b_1 to the open side of the first connecting hole 110b_2. The first waterproof member <NUM> and the second waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a rubber material, a polymer material, a flexible plastic material, or a combination thereof. The second connecting part 72b may include at least one interconnection wire that electrically connects the second connecting PCB 72a and the second printed circuit board <NUM>, and a substrate or structure on which the interconnection wire is disposed. The second connecting part 72b may be formed of a material that is the same as or similar to that of the first connecting part 71b and may be disposed in a structure that is the same as or similar to the structure in which the first connecting part 71b is disposed. For example, at least part of the second connecting part 72b may be disposed to pass through the second connecting hole 120b_2. The upper surface of the second connecting part 72b may be connected to the second connecting PCB 72a, and the lower surface of the second connecting part 72b may be connected to the second printed circuit board <NUM>.

The third waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed at a location where the second connecting part 72b and the second connecting PCB 72a are connected, and may block an inflow of fluid from the outside. The fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed at a location where the second connecting part 72b and the second printed circuit board <NUM> are connected, and may block an inflow of fluid from the outside. The third waterproof member <NUM> and the fourth waterproof member <NUM> may have a ring shape and may be respectively disposed on the upper surface and the lower surface of the second protrusion 120b_1. The third waterproof member <NUM> or the fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be provided to be the same as or similar to the first waterproof member <NUM> or the second waterproof member <NUM> mentioned above. For example, the thickness of the third waterproof member <NUM> or the fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be the same as or greater than the height from the upper surface of the second protrusion 120b_1 to the open side of the second connecting hole 120b_2. The third waterproof member <NUM> and the fourth waterproof member <NUM> may be formed of a rubber material, a polymer material, a flexible plastic material, or a combination thereof.

The hinge structure <NUM> may be disposed in the central area where the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> meet each other, with the display <NUM> unfolded. The hinge structure <NUM> may include, for example, one side coupled with the first housing <NUM>, an opposite side coupled with the second housing <NUM>, and at least one gear provided such that the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM> is rotatable. At least part of the interior of the hinge structure <NUM> may be empty, and at least part of the first flexible PCB <NUM> may be disposed in the empty cavity. One side of the first flexible PCB <NUM> may be connected with, for example, the first connecting PCB 71a connected with the first printed circuit board <NUM> through the first connecting part 71b. An opposite side of the first flexible PCB <NUM> may be connected with the second connecting PCB 72a connected with the second printed circuit board <NUM> through the second connecting part 72b. For example, the first flexible PCB <NUM> may transmit a signal generated from a part disposed on the first printed circuit board <NUM> to the second connecting PCB 72a, or may transmit a signal generated from a part disposed on the second printed circuit board <NUM> to the first connecting PCB 71a. The at least part of the first flexible PCB <NUM> may be disposed inside the hinge structure <NUM> in a state of being bent at a predetermined angle depending on the shape of the inside of the hinge structure <NUM>.

As described above, the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment includes the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, and the hinge structure <NUM> connecting the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. In an environment in which the first flexible PCB <NUM> connecting the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> is disposed, the electronic device <NUM> may seal the opening of the first connecting hole 110b_2 of the first housing <NUM> in which a portion of the first flexible PCB <NUM> is disposed and the opening of the second connecting hole 120b_2 of the second housing <NUM> in which another portion of the first flexible PCB <NUM> is disposed. Accordingly, the above-described electronic device <NUM> may perform a waterproof function to prevent fluid introduced from the outside from diffusing into the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM>.

Although it has been described that both the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> include the connecting holes, respectively, and the waterproof function is supported by closing the connecting holes, the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, at least part of the waterproof structure may be applied to only the first housing <NUM>, or may be applied to only the second housing <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view illustrating another example of a waterproof structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, at least part of the electronic device <NUM> includes the first housing <NUM> and the hinge structure <NUM> connected with one side of the first housing <NUM>, and the first housing <NUM> may include the first bottom part 110b extending from the first sidewall 110a and the first hinge cover 110c connected to the first bottom part 110b. The first flexible PCB <NUM> may be disposed inward of the hinge structure <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>. One side of the first flexible PCB <NUM> may be connected to the first connecting PCB 71a.

The first bottom part 110b may have the first connecting hole 110b_2 on one side thereof. The electronic device <NUM> may include the first connecting PCB 71a that covers the upper opening of the first connecting hole <NUM>0b_2 and the first printed circuit board <NUM> that covers the lower opening of the first connecting hole <NUM>10b_2. The first connecting part 71b connecting the first connecting PCB 71a and the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed in the first connecting hole 110b_2.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> may include a front bracket <NUM> disposed on the upper surface of the first connecting PCB 71a, a rear bracket <NUM> disposed on the rear surface of the first printed circuit board <NUM>, and a coupling member <NUM> that passes through one side of the front bracket <NUM> and that is coupled with at least part of the rear bracket <NUM>, with at least part of the coupling member <NUM> located in the first connecting hole 110b_2. The front bracket <NUM> may include an insertion hole into which the coupling member <NUM> is inserted. The rear bracket <NUM> may include an insertion hole into which an end of the coupling member <NUM> is screwed or riveted. In the case where the coupling member <NUM> is of a screw type, a thread may be formed on at least part of the inner wall of the insertion hole.

In the above-described structure of the electronic device <NUM>, the front bracket <NUM> may be provided on the upper surface of the first connecting PCB 71a, the rear bracket <NUM> may be provided on the rear surface of the first printed circuit board <NUM>, and the coupling member <NUM> may be coupled to fasten the front bracket <NUM> and the rear bracket <NUM>. In this case, the first connecting PCB 71a and the first printed circuit board <NUM> may more tightly seal the openings or gaps of the first connecting hole 110b_2. Although it has been described that the front bracket <NUM> and the rear bracket <NUM> are separately provided and the coupling member <NUM> fastens the front bracket <NUM> and the rear bracket <NUM>, the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device <NUM> may have a structure not including the front bracket <NUM> and the rear bracket <NUM>. In this case, the coupling member <NUM> may directly fasten the first connecting PCB 71a and the first printed circuit board <NUM>. In this regard, the first connecting PCB 71a and the first printed circuit board <NUM> may have predetermined strengths to withstand pressure applied while or after the coupling member <NUM> is coupled. For example, at least part of the first connecting PCB 71a and the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be formed of a metal material.

<FIG> is a view illustrating a first different form of a waterproof structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

<FIG> is a view illustrating a second different form of a waterproof structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, a partial area where the second housing <NUM> is disposed on the right side of the electronic device <NUM> is illustrated. <FIG> and <FIG> may be examples of the section taken along line A-A' of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, at least part of the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment includes the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> and may include a connecting part <NUM> that connects the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. At least part of the connecting part <NUM> may be disposed on one side of the hinge structure <NUM>.

The first housing <NUM> may include the first bottom part 110b, the first hinge cover 110c, the first printed circuit board <NUM>, a first opening 110b_5, a first connector (e.g., 74b_1, 73b_1, 74c_1, and a flexible PCB 53b_1), and a first portion 73a_1, 74a_1, and 53a_1 extending between the first printed circuit board <NUM> and the first connector (e.g., 74b_1, 73b_1, and 74c_1).

The second housing <NUM> may include the second bottom part 120b, the second hinge cover 120c, the second printed circuit board <NUM>, a second opening 120b_5, a second connector (e.g., 74b_2, 73b_2, and 74c_2), and a second portion 73a_2, 74a_2, and 53a_2 extending between the second printed circuit board <NUM> and the second connector (e.g., 74b_2, 73b_2, and 74c_2). The connecting part <NUM> may be a third portion that connects the first portion and the second portion. Some structures of the electronic device <NUM> will be described based on the second housing <NUM>. The second housing <NUM> may include the second bottom part 120b, the second hinge cover 120c, the second printed circuit board <NUM>, the third connecting PCB 74a_2, the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2, the fifth connecting PCB 74c_2, the second flexible PCB 53a_2, and a third flexible PCB 53b_2.

In the illustrated drawing, the sidewall (not illustrated) may be disposed on the right side of the second bottom part 120b, and the second hinge cover 120c may be disposed on the left side of the second bottom part 120b. The display may be disposed on the upper surface of the second bottom part 120b. The second printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed on the lower surface of the second bottom part 120b and may be connected with the third connecting PCB 74a_2 through the third connecting part 73a_2. One side of the second flexible PCB 53a_2 may be connected to one side of the third connecting PCB 74a_2, and an opposite side of the second flexible PCB 53a_2 may be bent in the shape of a "U" and may be connected to one side of the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2. The fourth connecting PCB 74b_2 may be disposed to cover one opening of the second opening 120b_5 formed in the second bottom part 120b, and the fifth connecting PCB 74c_2 may be disposed to cover an opposite opening of the second opening 120b_5 formed in the second bottom part 120b. The fourth connecting part 73b_2 may electrically connect the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2 and the fifth connecting PCB 74c_2. A first protruding structure 72c_2 may be provided in the second opening 120b_5 formed in the second bottom part 120b and may be higher than the surface of the inner wall of the second opening 120b_5 by a specified height. A step may be formed in the second opening 120b_5 by the first protruding structure 72c_2 provided in the second opening 120b_5, and waterproof members may be disposed on the step. For example, a fifth waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between a first surface of the first protruding structure 72c_2 and the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2, and a sixth waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed between a second surface (e.g., the surface opposite to the first surface) of the first protruding structure 72c_2 and the fifth connecting PCB 74c_2. The fifth waterproof member <NUM> and the sixth waterproof member <NUM> may have a ring shape and may be disposed on the first protruding structure 72c_2.

According to various embodiments, an adhesive layer or an adhesive member may be disposed between the fifth waterproof member <NUM> and the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2 and between the sixth waterproof member <NUM> and the fifth connecting PCB 74c_2 to fix the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2 and the fifth connecting PCB 74c_2. Alternatively, an adhesive layer or an adhesive member may be disposed between the fourth connecting part 73b_2 and the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2 or between the fourth connecting part 73b_2 and the fifth connecting PCB 74c_2. According to various embodiments, an adhesive layer or an adhesive member may be disposed between the third connecting part 73a_2 and the third connecting PCB 74a_2 or between the third connecting part 73a_2 and the second printed circuit board <NUM>. According to various embodiments, one side of the third flexible PCB 53b_2 may be connected to one side of the fifth connecting PCB 74c_2. The third flexible PCB 53b_2 may be disposed inward of the hinge structure <NUM> in a state of being bent at a predetermined angle.

Although some structures of the second housing <NUM> have been described above, the above-described structures may be provided in the first housing <NUM> in the same structures and shapes. For example, a second protruding structure 72c_1 may be disposed in the first housing <NUM>, a waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the upper surface of the second protruding structure 72c_1, and a waterproof member <NUM> may be disposed on the lower surface of the second protruding structure 72c_1. The waterproof members <NUM> and <NUM> may have a ring shape and may be disposed on the second protruding structure 72c_1.

The second flexible PCB 53a_2 illustrated in <FIG> may be connected with the one side (e.g., the side surface directed toward the second hinge cover 120c) of the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2, and therefore pressure applied to the second flexible PCB 53a_2 may be reduced, which makes it possible to ensure the stability of connection with the fourth connecting PCB 74b_2. Referring to <FIG>, at least part of the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment may include the second bottom part 120b, the second hinge cover 120c, the second printed circuit board <NUM>, an eighth connecting PCB 74a, a ninth connecting PCB 74b, a tenth connecting PCB 74c, a fourth flexible PCB 53b, and a fifth flexible PCB 53c that are included in the second housing <NUM>. Here, configurations of the second bottom part 120b, the second hinge cover 120c, the second printed circuit board <NUM>, the eighth connecting PCB 74a, the ninth connecting PCB 74b, the tenth connecting PCB 74c, and the fourth flexible PCB 53b (e.g., waterproof members <NUM> and <NUM>, a protruding structure 72c, a connector 73b, a second portion 73a, etc.) may be substantially the same as, or similar to, the configurations described above with reference to <FIG>.

For example, one side of the fifth flexible PCB 53c may be connected with one side of the eighth connecting PCB 74a, and an opposite side of the fifth flexible PCB 53c may be connected with one side of the ninth connecting PCB 74b. Here, the opposite side of the fifth flexible PCB 53c may be connected to a side surface of the one side of the ninth connecting PCB 74b that is close to the second bottom part 120b. In this regard, the fifth flexible PCB 53c may be bent in the shape of an "S". With regard to an arrangement of the fifth flexible PCB 53c in the shape of an "S", one side of the second bottom part 120b may be formed with a step as illustrated.

In the above-described structure illustrated in <FIG>, the fifth flexible PCB 53c may be disposed close to the ninth connecting PCB 74b, and thus the fifth flexible PCB 53c may be formed to be shorter than the second flexible PCB 53a_2.

<FIG> is a view illustrating a third different form of a waterproof structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure. <FIG> may be another example of the section taken along line A-A' of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, at least part of the electronic device <NUM> according to an embodiment includes the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, the hinge structure <NUM>, the display <NUM>, and may include the rear side part <NUM>, the rear panels <NUM> and <NUM>, the first bezel 160a, and the second bezel 160b. Furthermore, the at least part of the electronic device <NUM> may include the first printed circuit board <NUM>, the second printed circuit board <NUM>, a sixth flexible PCB <NUM>, a sixth connecting PCB <NUM>, and a seventh connecting PCB <NUM>.

The first housing <NUM> may include the first sidewall 110a, the first bottom part 110b, the first hinge cover 110c, and a fourth connecting hole 75a, and a first waterproof structure <NUM>.

For example, the first sidewall 110a may be formed to have a predetermined width and height in the vertical direction in the illustrated drawing. The first bezel 160a may be disposed on an upper end of the first sidewall 110a and may protect the edge of the display <NUM>, at least part of which is seated on the first bottom part 110b. The first bottom part 110b may be disposed at a predetermined height on the first sidewall 110a and may have a predetermined area in a direction that differs from the direction in which the first sidewall 110a is formed. The display <NUM> may be disposed on the upper surface of the first bottom part 110b, and the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed on the lower surface of the first bottom part 110b. According to various embodiments, at least one third protruding structure 110b_4 may be disposed on the lower surface of the first bottom part 110b. At least part of the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be fixed to the third protruding structure 110b_4. For example, one end of the right edge of the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be fixed to one surface of the third protruding structure 110b_4. Accordingly, the at least part of the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be spaced apart from the lower surface of the first bottom part 110b by a predetermined gap. The sixth connecting PCB <NUM> may be placed on at least one side of the lower surface of the first printed circuit board <NUM>. The sixth connecting PCB <NUM> may be connected with one side of the sixth flexible PCB <NUM>.

The fourth connecting hole 75a may be vertically formed through the first bottom part 110b. The first waterproof structure <NUM> may be disposed to fill at least part of the fourth connecting hole 75a. At least part of the sixth flexible PCB <NUM> may be disposed inward of the first waterproof structure <NUM>. The first waterproof structure <NUM> may be formed of a material (e.g., rubber) with elasticity and may thus prevent an inflow of fluid from the top side to the bottom side of the fourth connecting hole 75a even though the sixth flexible PCB <NUM> is disposed inward of the first waterproof structure <NUM>. In this regard, at least part of the first waterproof structure <NUM> may have a diameter that is the same as or greater than the diameter of the fourth connecting hole 75a, and may be press fitted into the fourth connecting hole 75a.

The second housing <NUM> may include the second sidewall 120a, the second bottom part 120b, the second hinge cover 120c, a fifth connecting hole 75b, and a second waterproof structure <NUM>. The second sidewall 120a may be symmetric to the first sidewall 110a, and the second bezel 160b may be disposed on an upper end of the second sidewall 120a. The second bezel 160b may protect the edge of the display <NUM> seated on the second bottom part 120b. The second bottom part 120b may be provided similarly to the first bottom part 110b. The display <NUM> may be disposed on the upper surface of the second bottom part 120b, and the second printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed on the lower surface of the second bottom part 120b. According to various embodiments, at least one fourth protruding structure 120b_4 may be disposed on the lower surface of the second bottom part 120b. At least part of the second printed circuit board <NUM> may be fixed to the fourth protruding structure 120b_4. Accordingly, the at least part of the second printed circuit board <NUM> may be spaced apart from the lower surface of the second bottom part 120b by a predetermined gap. The seventh connecting PCB <NUM> may be placed on at least one side of the lower surface of the second printed circuit board <NUM>. The seventh connecting PCB <NUM> may be connected with an opposite side of the sixth flexible PCB <NUM>.

The fifth connecting hole 75b may be vertically formed through the second bottom part 120b. The second waterproof structure <NUM> may be disposed to fill at least part of the fifth connecting hole 75b. At least part of the sixth flexible PCB <NUM> may be disposed inward of the second waterproof structure <NUM>. With regard to prevention of an inflow of fluid from the top side to the bottom side of the fifth connecting hole 75b, the second waterproof structure <NUM> may be formed of a material with elasticity (e.g., at least one of rubber, flexible plastic, dispensing, bonding, a polymer, or a combination thereof). The second waterproof structure <NUM> may have the same shape and size as the first waterproof structure <NUM> and may be seated in the fifth connecting hole 75b.

The one side of the sixth flexible PCB <NUM> may be connected to the first printed circuit board <NUM> through the sixth connecting PCB <NUM> and may be disposed inward of the hinge structure <NUM> through the first waterproof structure <NUM>. The opposite side of the sixth flexible PCB <NUM> may be connected to the second printed circuit board <NUM> through the seventh connecting PCB <NUM> and may be disposed inward of the hinge structure <NUM> through the second waterproof structure <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> may further include the first rear waterproof member 11a disposed between the first rear panel <NUM> and the first sidewall 110a and the first cover waterproof member 11b disposed between the first rear panel <NUM> and the first hinge cover 110c. Furthermore, the electronic device <NUM> may further include the second rear waterproof member 12a disposed between the second rear panel <NUM> and the second sidewall 120a and the second cover waterproof member 12b disposed between the second rear panel <NUM> and the second hinge cover 120c.

In the above-described electronic device <NUM>, the first waterproof structure <NUM> and the second waterproof structure <NUM> may be disposed in the fourth connecting hole 75a and the fifth connecting hole 75b in which the sixth flexible PCB <NUM> is disposed, thereby preventing fluid from being introduced toward the printed circuit boards <NUM> and <NUM>, which in turn provides a stable waterproof function.

<FIG> is a view illustrating one form of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

<FIG> is a view illustrating an example of a waterproof packing structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

<FIG> is a view illustrating a structure in which a sixth flexible PCB is inserted into a waterproof packing structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

<FIG> is a view illustrating structures of an electronic device in which the waterproof packing structure is disposed, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, state <NUM> illustrates a state in which the display and the bezel (e.g., a structure covering the edge of the display) are removed from the electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments. State <NUM> illustrates a blowup of the area where a seventh flexible PCB <NUM> is disposed in state <NUM>, and state <NUM> illustrates a section taken along line B-B' in state <NUM>. Referring to states <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM> according to various embodiments includes the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, and the hinge structure <NUM> and may include at least one seventh flexible PCB <NUM> disposed across the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, and the hinge structure <NUM>.

The first housing <NUM> may have, in the first sidewall 110b, a sixth connecting hole <NUM> in which one side (e.g., a first sub-FPCB 200b) of the seventh flexible PCB <NUM> is mounted, and the second housing <NUM> may have, in the second sidewall 120b, a seventh connecting hole <NUM> in which an opposite side (e.g., a second sub-FPCB 200c) of the seventh flexible PCB <NUM> is mounted. A central FPCB 200a of the seventh flexible PCB <NUM> may be disposed inward of the hinge structure <NUM>. The first hinge cover 110c that is a portion of the first housing <NUM> and the second hinge cover 120c that is a portion of the second housing <NUM> may be disposed on the exterior of the hinge structure <NUM>. A first PCB fixing part 201a for fixing the first sub-FPCB 200b of the seventh flexible PCB <NUM> may be disposed on one side of the first hinge cover 110c. The first PCB fixing part 201a may have, on the central portion, a bumpy structure into which a hook or a protrusion is fixedly inserted. In this regard, the first hinge cover 110c may have, in a predetermined area on the upper side thereof, a hook or a protrusion on which the first PCB fixing part 201a is temporarily or semi-permanently fixedly mounted.

A second PCB fixing part 201b for fixing the second sub-FPCB 200c of the seventh flexible PCB <NUM> may be disposed on one side of the second hinge cover 120c. Correspondingly, the second hinge cover 120c may have, on the one side thereof, a hook or a protrusion that is coupled with the second PCB fixing part 201b. An eleventh connecting PCB 171a may be disposed at an end of the first sub-FPCB 200b, and a twelfth connecting PCB 172a may be disposed at an end of the second sub-FPCB 200c. The eleventh connecting PCB 171a may be connected with the first printed circuit board, which has been described above with reference to <FIG>, through a first connector 171b, and the twelfth connecting PCB 172a may be connected with the second printed circuit board <NUM> through a second connector 172b.

At least one of the first PCB fixing part 201a or the second PCB fixing part 201b may be formed of a material (e.g., a plastic material, wood, or a polymer material) that has a higher strength than the FPCBs 200a, 200b, and 200c by a specified magnitude or more.

Referring to <FIG>, a first waterproof packing structure <NUM> may be fixedly inserted into the sixth connecting hole <NUM> and the seventh connecting hole <NUM> described above in connection with the electronic device <NUM>. The sixth connecting hole <NUM> and the seventh connecting hole <NUM> may each include an upper opening and a lower opening that have different sizes, so as to prevent the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> from being separated in one direction (e.g., the upper direction in the illustrated drawing) after being seated in the sixth connecting hole <NUM> and the seventh connecting hole <NUM>. For example, the sixth connecting hole <NUM> and the seventh connecting hole <NUM> may include a cavity with a predetermined size and a cover that covers the upper opening of the cavity and that has an opening formed therein such that a portion of an upper end of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> is exposed to the outside.

In <FIG>, state <NUM> illustrates the front side of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>, state <NUM> illustrates the left side of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>, and state <NUM> illustrates the right side of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>. States <NUM> and <NUM> illustrate the upper side and the lower side of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>, and state <NUM> illustrates a cross-sectional view of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>. State <NUM> illustrates a longitudinal sectional view of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>, and state <NUM> illustrates a perspective view of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>.

As illustrated in states <NUM> to <NUM>, the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> may include a support bracket <NUM>, a sub-bracket <NUM>, a mounting part <NUM>, and a water-infiltration preventing part <NUM>. The support bracket <NUM> may be formed to be larger than the upper opening area of the sixth connecting hole <NUM> or the seventh connecting hole <NUM> that is formed in the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>. For example, the support bracket <NUM> may be seated in the sixth connecting hole <NUM> or the seventh connecting hole <NUM>. An upward movement of the support bracket <NUM> may be restricted by the cover provided on the upper side of the sixth connecting hole <NUM> or the seventh connecting hole <NUM>. The support bracket <NUM> may have, for example, an oval or rectangular shape, the vertical axis of which is longer than the horizontal axis. In the case where the support bracket <NUM> is provided in a rectangular shape, the support bracket <NUM> may have rounded corners. The support bracket <NUM> may include a predetermined space therein, in which the water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> is disposed.

The sub-bracket <NUM> may extend upward from the support bracket <NUM> by a specified height and may have a smaller area than the support bracket <NUM>. When the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> is seated in the sixth connecting hole <NUM> or the seventh connecting hole <NUM>, at least part of the sub-bracket <NUM> may be mounted in the opening formed in the cover. The sub-bracket <NUM> may have, for example, the shape of a "C". The sub-bracket <NUM> may include a predetermined space therein, in which at least part of the water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> is disposed.

The mounting part <NUM> may be disposed on the support bracket <NUM> and may be engaged with the sub-bracket <NUM>. The mounting part <NUM> may be provided in a shape independent of the sub-bracket <NUM> or the support bracket <NUM> and may be disposed to face the sub-bracket <NUM>. Alternatively, the mounting part <NUM> may be disposed at an open side of the sub-bracket <NUM> having the shape of a "C". Accordingly, the sub-bracket <NUM> and the mounting part <NUM> may be arranged to form a strap shape.

The water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> may be disposed inside the support bracket <NUM> and the sub-bracket <NUM>. In this process, the water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> may close an opening area formed at the top of the sub-bracket <NUM>. Additionally, the water-infiltration preventing part <NUM>, together with the one side of the seventh flexible PCB <NUM>, may be disposed in the support bracket <NUM> and the sub-bracket <NUM> and may therefore block an inflow of fluid in the direction from the support bracket <NUM> to the sub-bracket <NUM> or in the direction from the sub-bracket <NUM> to the support bracket <NUM> even though the seventh flexible PCB <NUM> is disposed outside through the opening area of the sub-bracket <NUM>. The water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> may include a waterproof tape, or dispensing formed in the support bracket <NUM> and the sub-bracket <NUM>.

Although it has been exemplified that the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> has the exterior in the form including the support bracket <NUM>, the sub-bracket <NUM>, and the mounting part <NUM>, the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> of the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> may have a structure in which the support bracket <NUM>, the sub-bracket <NUM>, and the mounting part <NUM> are integrated, an opening is formed in the middle between the sub-bracket <NUM> and the mounting part <NUM>, at least part of a flexible PCB is disposed in the opening, and the opening is closed by the water-infiltration preventing part <NUM>.

Additionally or alternatively, an adhesive layer <NUM> (or an adhesive member) in a strap shape may be disposed on the upper surface of the support bracket <NUM>. The adhesive layer <NUM> may serve to fix the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> when the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> is seated in the sixth connecting hole <NUM> or the seventh connecting hole <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, a portion of the seventh flexible PCB <NUM> may be seated in the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the state in which at least part of the second sub-FPCB 200c of the seventh flexible PCB <NUM> extends above or below the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> through the opening area formed in the sub-bracket <NUM> of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>. Alternatively, <FIG> illustrates the state in which the opening area formed in the sub-bracket <NUM> of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> is closed by the water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> while at least part of the second sub-FPCB 200c is mounted in the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>. The twelfth connecting PCB 172a may be disposed at one end of the second sub-FPCB 200c, and the second PCB fixing part 201b may be disposed at an opposite end of the second sub-FPCB 200c. The central FPCB 200a may be connected to the second PCB fixing part 201b. While a portion of the second sub-FPCB 200c is disposed in the opening area of the sub-bracket <NUM>, the water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> may close the opening area of the sub-bracket <NUM> except for the portion in which the second sub-FPCB 200c is disposed, and thus the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> may block an inflow of fluid from the outside. Referring to <FIG>, state <NUM> illustrates one side of the first housing <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>, and state <NUM> illustrates a section taken along line C-C' in state <NUM>. Referring to state <NUM> and state <NUM>, the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> may be seated in the sixth connecting hole <NUM> of the first housing <NUM>. At least part of the first sub-FPCB 200b may be mounted in the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>, and the first sub-FPCB 200b may extend from the portion mounted in the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>. Accordingly, the first sub-FPCB 200b may be disposed in a predetermined area of the first housing <NUM>. The eleventh connecting PCB 171a may be disposed at an end of the first sub-FPCB 200b. The eleventh connecting PCB 171a may be connected with the separately provided first printed circuit board <NUM> through the first connector 171b. As illustrated, the sixth connecting hole <NUM> may have a shape in which an opening is formed at the top and a cavity is formed inside. At least part of the first waterproof packing structure <NUM> may be disposed in the cavity. An opposite side of the first sub-FPCB 200b, at least part of which is disposed in the first waterproof packing structure <NUM>, may be connected to the central FPCB 200a. The first PCB fixing part 201a may be provided between the first sub-FPCB 200b and the central FPCB 200a. The first PCB fixing part 201a may be fixed to one side of the first hinge cover 110c disposed to surround one side of the hinge structure <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view illustrating another example of a waterproof packing structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, a second waterproof packing structure <NUM> of the disclosure may be disposed on one side of a connecting hole <NUM> and may be disposed to close an opening area of the connecting hole <NUM> while supporting at least part of a flexible PCB.

For example, the connecting hole <NUM> may be formed in a bottom part (e.g., the second bottom part 120b of <FIG>) of the housing. The connecting hole <NUM> may be vertically formed through the bottom part. The connecting hole <NUM> may be formed such that the lower opening area is larger than the upper opening area in the illustrated drawing. Rail grooves 901a and 902a may be disposed inside the connecting hole <NUM>.

The second waterproof packing structure <NUM> may include a first packing structure <NUM> that supports at least part of the second sub-FPCB 200c (or the first sub-FPCB) on one side, a second packing structure <NUM> that supports the at least part of the second sub-FPCB 200c on an opposite side, a PCB water-infiltration preventing part <NUM>, a first water-infiltration preventing part <NUM>, and a second water-infiltration preventing part <NUM>.

The first packing structure <NUM> and the second packing structure <NUM> may be paired and may be disposed to face each other. For example, the first packing structure <NUM> may include, on the inside thereof, the first rail groove 901a with a predetermined length in which the PCB water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> is disposed, and may include, on the outside thereof, a first water-infiltration preventing groove 901b in which the first water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> is disposed to prevent a fluid flow between the first packing structure <NUM> and the connecting hole <NUM>. The second packing structure <NUM> may have a shape that is symmetric to the shape of the first packing structure <NUM>. For example, the second packing structure <NUM> may include, on the inside thereof, the second rail groove 902a with a predetermined length in which the PCB water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> is disposed, and may include, on the outside thereof, a second water-infiltration preventing groove 902b in which the second water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> is disposed to prevent a fluid flow between the second packing structure <NUM> and the connecting hole <NUM>.

The PCB water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> may have a central portion in which the at least part of the second sub-FPCB 200c is mounted. The PCB water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> may support the second sub-FPCB 200c according to the pressing of the first packing structure <NUM> and the second packing structure <NUM> while closing an upper side surface and a lower side surface that are brought into contact with the second sub-FPCB 200c. Accordingly, even though the second sub-FPCB 200c is mounted, the PCB water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> may close the opening area formed between the first packing structure <NUM> and the second packing structure <NUM>, thereby preventing fluid from being vertically introduced into the second waterproof packing structure <NUM>.

The first water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> may be seated between the first water-infiltration preventing groove 901b of the first packing structure <NUM> and a groove formed on the inner wall of the connecting hole <NUM> and may block an inflow of fluid from the lower surface to the upper surface of the second waterproof packing structure <NUM>. The second water-infiltration preventing part <NUM> may be seated between the second water-infiltration preventing groove 902b of the second packing structure <NUM> and a groove formed on the inner wall of the connecting hole <NUM> and may block an inflow of fluid from the lower surface to the upper surface of the second waterproof packing structure <NUM>.

Additionally, one side of the second sub-FPCB 200c may be connected to the second PCB fixing part 201b. The second PCB fixing part 201b may be fixed to one side of the second hinge cover 120c. A portion of the display <NUM> may be disposed on the second housing <NUM>. The structure described above with reference to <FIG> may be identically applied to a connecting hole formed in the first housing <NUM>.

According to various embodiments, in the case where one housing (e.g., the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM>) has a plurality of connecting holes formed therein, the waterproof structures described above with reference to <FIG> may be applied to the connecting holes in combination. For example, the waterproof structure described with reference to <FIG> may be applied to a connecting hole formed in the first housing <NUM>, and the waterproof structure described with reference to <FIG> may be applied to a connecting hole formed in the second housing <NUM>.

Although it has been exemplified that connecting holes are formed in both the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>, the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, a connecting hole may be formed in only the first housing <NUM>, or a connecting hole may be formed in only the second housing <NUM>. In this case, the arrangement of the printed circuit boards may be varied. For example, the first printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed on the upper surface of the first bottom part 110b of the first housing <NUM>, and the second printed circuit board <NUM> may be disposed on the lower surface of the second bottom part 120b of the second housing <NUM>. Further, at least one connecting hole may be formed in the hinge structure <NUM>. In this case, the waterproof members or the waterproof packing structures described above with reference to <FIG> may be disposed in the at least one connecting hole formed in the hinge structure <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view illustrating an example of an edge structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

<FIG> is a view illustrating an example of a bezel arrangement structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, state <NUM> illustrates a state in which the bezel of the electronic device <NUM> is removed, and state <NUM> illustrates a section taken along line D-D' in state <NUM>. Referring to state <NUM> and state <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM> may include the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> and may include the hinge structure <NUM> disposed between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. The display <NUM> may be placed on the first housing <NUM>, the second housing <NUM>, and the hinge structure <NUM>. Here, the first housing <NUM> may have, at the edge thereof, a bezel groove 110_1 in which the bezel is fixedly seated. The bezel groove 110_1 may be formed along the edge of the first housing <NUM> and the edge of the second housing <NUM>. A fixing part 110_2 including at least one of bonding or a tape may be disposed in the bezel groove 110_1. The fixing part 110_2 may fix the bezel (e.g., the first bezel 160a or the second bezel 160b of <FIG>) that is placed in the bezel groove 110_1.

Referring to <FIG>, state <NUM> illustrates the electronic device <NUM> having the bezel 160a coupled thereto, and state <NUM> illustrates an example of a section taken along line E-E' in state <NUM> in which the bezel 160a is coupled to the electronic device <NUM>. Referring to state <NUM> and state <NUM>, the display <NUM> may be placed on an upper side of the electronic device <NUM>, and the bezel 160a may be disposed at the edge of the electronic device <NUM>. The bezel 160a may be fixed, by a snap-fit connection, to the first housing <NUM> or a support layer <NUM> (e.g., an SUS layer) that is disposed on the first housing <NUM> and the display <NUM>. Alternatively, the bezel 160a may be fixed by a fixing part provided on the support layer <NUM>.

A waterproof tape <NUM> may be disposed between the display <NUM> and the bezel 160a. The waterproof tape <NUM> may be disposed between the edge of the display <NUM> and the edge of the support layer <NUM> (or the edges of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>) and may block a fluid flow into the display <NUM> from the outside. The waterproof tape <NUM> may provide a waterproof function by forming a closed curve while covering the entire edge of the display <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the bezel 160a may be formed to be larger than the shape illustrated and may be firmly fixed to the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM> through a screw. For example, the screw may be tightened against a side surface of the bezel 160a in a direction parallel to the display <NUM> to fix the bezel 160a to the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM>. Alternatively, the screw may be tightened against the upper surface of the bezel 160a in the direction perpendicular to the display <NUM> to fix the bezel 160a to the first housing <NUM> or the second housing <NUM> (or the support layer <NUM>).

The bezel 160a may be formed of different materials along the periphery of the display <NUM>. For example, the bezel 160a may include a first partial bezel 160a_1 formed of a nonmetal material and provided in an area where an antenna is disposed to transmit and receive communication signals in a specific frequency band and a second partial bezel 160_2 formed of a metal material in relation to reinforcement and provided in an area where the antenna is not disposed. The first partial bezel 160a_1 and the second partial bezel 160a_2 may be successively connected. In this regard, the first partial bezel 160a_1 may be formed by injection molding based on the second partial bezel 160a_2 formed of a metal material. Alternatively, the bezel 160a may be provided by coupling the first and second partial bezels 160a_1 and 160a_2 of different materials to positions on the periphery of the electronic device <NUM>.

According to the various embodiments, an electronic device according to an embodiment may include a foldable housing (e.g., <NUM> and <NUM> of <FIG>) that includes a hinge structure (e.g., the hinge structure <NUM> of <FIG>), a first housing structure (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) that is connected to the hinge structure and that includes a first surface facing a first direction (e.g., the first direction 1000a of <FIG>), a second surface facing a second direction (e.g., the second direction 1000b of <FIG>) that is opposite to the first direction, and a first side member (e.g., 110a of <FIG>) that at least partially surrounds a space formed between the first surface and the second surface, and a second housing structure (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) that is connected to the hinge structure and that includes a third surface facing a third direction (e.g., the third direction 1000c of <FIG>), a fourth surface facing a fourth direction (e.g., the fourth direction 1000b of <FIG>) that is opposite to the third direction, and a second side member (e.g., 120a of <FIG>) that at least partially surrounds a space formed between the third surface and the fourth surface, the second housing structure being folded together with the first housing structure <NUM> around the hinge structure, wherein in a folded state, at least part of the first surface is opposite the third surface, and in an unfolded state, the third direction is the same as the first direction, a display <NUM> extending from the first surface to the third surface to form at least part of the first surface and the third surface, a first mid-plate (e.g., the first bottom part 110b of <FIG>) disposed between the display and the second surface, the first mid-plate extending from the first side member in a direction perpendicular to the first direction and including a first opening (e.g., 75a of <FIG>), a second mid-plate (e.g., the second bottom part 120b of <FIG>) disposed between the display and the fourth surface, the second mid-plate extending from the second side member in a direction perpendicular to the third direction and including a second opening (e.g., 75b of <FIG>), a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) that extends across the hinge structure from a first space formed between the first mid-plate and the second surface to a second space formed between the second mid-plate and the fourth surface, a first sealing member (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) that seals the first opening, and a second sealing member (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) that seals the second opening.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a first printed circuit board (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) that is located between the first mid-plate and the second surface, and a second printed circuit board (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) that is located between the second mid-plate and the fourth surface.

According to various embodiments, the flexible printed circuit board may include a first connector (e.g., 74b_1, 73b_1, and 74c_1 of <FIG>) that is located in the first opening (e.g., 110b_5 of <FIG>), a first portion (e.g., 73_1, 74_1, and 53a_1 of <FIG>) that extends between the first printed circuit board (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) and the first connector, a second connector (e.g., 74b_2, 73b_2, and 74c_2 of <FIG>) that is located in the second opening (e.g., 120b_5 of <FIG>), a second portion (e.g., 73a_2, 74a_2, and 53a_1 of <FIG>) that extends between the second printed circuit board (e.g., <NUM> of <FIG>) and the second connector, and a third portion <NUM> that extends between the first connector and the second connector.

According to various embodiments, the first sealing member may make contact with the first connector, and the second sealing member may make contact with the second connector.

According to the various embodiments, an electronic device according to an embodiment may include a first housing <NUM> that includes a first connecting hole (e.g., 110b_2 of <FIG> or 75a of <FIG>) through one surface of the first housing, a second housing <NUM>, a hinge structure <NUM> that connects the first housing and the second housing and supports a hinge motion of the first housing or the second housing, a first printed circuit board <NUM> that is disposed in the first housing, a second printed circuit board <NUM> that is disposed in the second housing, a first connecting PCB (e.g., at least one of 71a of <FIG> or 74b_1 and 74c_1 of <FIG>) that is disposed to cover at least part of an opening on one side of the first connecting hole and that is electrically connected to the first printed circuit board, and a flexible PCB <NUM>, at least part of which is disposed in the hinge structure, wherein one side of the flexible PCB is electrically connected with the first connecting PCB.

According to various embodiments, the first printed circuit board may be disposed to cover at least part of an opening on an opposite side of the first connecting hole.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a first connecting part (e.g., at least one of 71b of <FIG> or 73b_1 and 73b_2 of <FIG>) that connects the first connecting PCB and the first printed circuit board, at least part of the first connecting part being seated in the first connecting hole.

According to various embodiments, the first connecting hole may include at least one of a protruding structure extending from an inner wall of the first housing by a predetermined height, a first waterproof member disposed between the first connecting PCB and the protruding structure, or a second waterproof member disposed between the first printed circuit board and the protruding structure.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a front bracket disposed on an upper surface of the first connecting PCB, and a coupling member fastened to the first printed circuit board, with at least part of the coupling member disposed in the first connecting hole through the front bracket.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a front bracket disposed on an upper surface of the first connecting PCB, a rear bracket disposed on a rear surface of the first printed circuit board, and a coupling member fastened to the rear bracket through one side of the first printed circuit board, with at least part of the coupling member disposed in the first connecting hole through the front bracket.

According to various embodiments, the second housing may include at least one of a second connecting hole (e.g., 120b_2 of <FIG> or 75b of <FIG>) through one surface of the second housing, or a second connecting PCB disposed to cover at least part of an opening on one side of the second connecting hole, the second connecting PCB having one side electrically connected to the second printed circuit board and an opposite side connected to the flexible PCB.

According to various embodiments, the second printed circuit board may include a waterproof structure disposed to cover at least part of an opening on an opposite side of the second connecting hole, and the electronic device may further include a second connecting part that connects the second connecting PCB and the second printed circuit board, at least part of the second connecting part being seated in the second connecting hole.

According to the various embodiments, an electronic device according to an embodiment may include a first housing including a first connecting hole (e.g., a first connecting hole vertically formed) through one surface of the first housing, a second housing including a second connecting hole through one surface of the second housing, a hinge structure that connects the first housing and the second housing and supports a hinge motion of the first housing or the second housing, a first printed circuit board disposed in the first housing, a second printed circuit board disposed in the second housing, a flexible PCB that connects the first printed circuit board and the second printed circuit board, at least part of the flexible PCB being disposed on one side of the hinge structure, a first waterproof member that blocks a fluid flow (e.g., a vertical fluid flow) into the first connecting hole, and a second waterproof member that blocks a fluid flow into the second connecting hole. The flexible PCB may include a first sub-FPCB, at least part of which is mounted in the first connecting hole, a second sub-FPCB, at least part of which is mounted in the second connecting hole, and a central FPCB that connects the first sub-FPCB and the second sub-FPCB.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a waterproof packing structure, at least part of which is disposed in the first connecting hole, the waterproof packing structure including, on one side thereof, an opening area in which at least part of the first sub-FPCB is placed, wherein the first waterproof member is disposed in the waterproof packing structure.

According to various embodiments, the waterproof packing structure may include a support bracket seated in the first connecting hole, an adhesive layer bonded to the inside of the first connecting hole, a sub-bracket formed on the support bracket and including an opening area on one side of the sub-bracket, a mounting part disposed to block one side of the sub-bracket, and the first waterproof member disposed in the support bracket and the sub-bracket to prevent an inflow of fluid, wherein a portion of the first sub-FPCB is disposed in the middle of the first waterproof member.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a waterproof packing structure, at least part of which is disposed in the second connecting hole, the waterproof packing structure including, on one side thereof, an opening area in which at least part of the second sub-FPCB is placed, wherein the second waterproof member is disposed in the waterproof packing structure. The waterproof packing structure may include a support bracket seated in the second connecting hole, an adhesive layer bonded to the inside of the second connecting hole, a sub-bracket formed on the support bracket and including an opening area on one side of the sub-bracket, a mounting part disposed to block one side of the sub-bracket, and the second waterproof member disposed in the support bracket and the sub-bracket to prevent an inflow of fluid, wherein a portion of the second sub-FPCB is disposed in the middle of the second waterproof member.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a first packing structure that surrounds at least part of one side of the first waterproof member, and a second packing structure that surrounds at least part of an opposite side of the first waterproof member and that is disposed to be symmetric to the first packing structure.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include a first water-infiltration preventing part disposed between the first packing structure and the first connecting hole, and a second water-infiltration preventing part disposed between the second packing structure and the first connecting hole.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may further include at least one PCB fixing part that fixes the flexible PCB to one side of the first housing or the second housing.

<FIG> is a view illustrating a flat state of a foldable electronic device including a waterproof structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

<FIG> is a view illustrating a folded state of a foldable electronic device including a waterproof structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in an embodiment, an electronic device <NUM> may include a foldable housing <NUM>, a hinge cover <NUM> that covers a foldable portion of the foldable housing <NUM>, and a flexible or foldable display <NUM> (hereinafter, abbreviated to the "display <NUM>") that is disposed in a space formed by the foldable housing <NUM>. In this disclosure, a surface on which the display <NUM> is disposed is defined as a first surface or a front surface of the electronic device <NUM>. A surface opposite to the front surface is defined as a second surface or a rear surface of the electronic device <NUM>. Furthermore, a surface that surrounds the space formed between the front surface and the rear surface is defined as a third surface or a side surface of the electronic device <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the foldable housing <NUM> may include a first housing structure <NUM>, a second housing structure <NUM> including a sensor area <NUM>, a first back cover <NUM>, and a second back cover <NUM>. The foldable housing <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> is not limited to the form and the coupling illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> and may be implemented by a combination and/or a coupling of other shapes or parts. For example, in another embodiment, the first housing structure <NUM> and the first back cover <NUM> may be integrally formed with each other, and the second housing structure <NUM> and the second back cover <NUM> may be integrally formed with each other.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be disposed on opposite sides of a folding axis (axis A) and may have shapes that are entirely symmetric to each other with respect to the folding axis A. As will be described below, the angle or distance between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may vary depending on whether the electronic device <NUM> is in a flat state, a folded state, or an intermediate state. In the illustrated embodiment, unlike the first housing structure <NUM>, the second housing structure <NUM> may additionally include the sensor area <NUM> in which various sensors are arranged, but may have a mutually symmetrical shape in the other area.

In an embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may form a recess in which the display <NUM> is received. In the illustrated embodiment, due to the sensor area <NUM>, the recess may have two or more different widths in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis A.

For example, the recess may have (<NUM>) a first width w1 between a first portion 1510a of the first housing structure <NUM> that is parallel to the folding axis A and a first portion 1520a of the second housing structure <NUM> that is formed on the periphery of the sensor area <NUM> and (<NUM>) a second width w2 formed by a second portion 1510b of the first housing structure <NUM> and a second portion 1520b of the second housing structure <NUM> that does not correspond to the sensor area <NUM> and that is parallel to the folding axis A. In this case, the second width w2 may be greater than the first width w1. In other words, the first portion 1510a of the first housing structure <NUM> and the first portion 1520a of the second housing structure <NUM> that have asymmetrical shapes may form the first width w1 of the recess, and the second portion 1510b of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second portion 1520b of the second housing structure <NUM> that have symmetrical shapes may form the second width w2 of the recess. In an embodiment, the first portion 1520a and the second portion 1520b of the second housing structure <NUM> may have different distances from the folding axis A. The width of the recess is not limited to the illustrated example. In various embodiments, the recess may have a plurality of widths by the form of the sensor area <NUM> or by the portions of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> that have asymmetrical shapes.

In an embodiment, at least part of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be formed of a metal material or a non-metal material that has a strength selected to support the display <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the sensor area <NUM> may be formed adjacent to one corner of the second housing structure <NUM> and may have a predetermined area. However, the arrangement, shape, and size of the sensor area <NUM> are not limited to the illustrated example. For example, in another embodiment, the sensor area <NUM> may be provided in another corner of the second housing structure <NUM> or in any area between an upper corner and a lower corner of the second housing structure <NUM>. In an embodiment, parts for performing various functions that are embedded in the electronic device <NUM> may be exposed on the front surface of the electronic device <NUM> though the sensor area <NUM> or through one or more openings formed in the sensor area <NUM>. In various embodiments, the parts may include various types of sensors. The sensors may include, for example, at least one of a front camera, a receiver, or a proximity sensor. The first back cover <NUM> may be disposed on the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM> and may be located on one side of the folding axis A. The first back cover <NUM> may have, for example, a substantially rectangular periphery, and the periphery may be surrounded by the first housing structure <NUM>. Similarly, the second back cover <NUM> may be disposed on the rear surface of the electronic device <NUM> and may be located on an opposite side of the folding axis A. The second back cover <NUM> may have a periphery surrounded by the second housing structure <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first back cover <NUM> and the second back cover <NUM> may have substantially symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding axis (the axis A). However, the first back cover <NUM> and the second back cover <NUM> do not necessarily have to have mutually symmetrical shapes. In another embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include the first back cover <NUM> and the second back cover <NUM> that have various shapes. In another embodiment, the first back cover <NUM> may be integrally formed with the first housing structure <NUM>, and the second back cover <NUM> may be integrally formed with the second housing structure <NUM>.

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

Referring to <FIG>, the hinge cover <NUM> may be disposed between the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> and may be configured to hide an internal part (e.g., a hinge structure). In an embodiment, the hinge cover <NUM> may be hidden by a portion of the first housing structure <NUM> and a portion of the second housing structure <NUM>, or may be exposed to the outside, depending on the state (a flat state or a folded state) of the electronic device <NUM>.

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

The display <NUM> may be disposed in the space formed by the foldable housing <NUM>. For example, the display <NUM> may be seated in the recess formed by the foldable housing <NUM> and may form almost the entire front surface of the electronic device <NUM>.

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

The display <NUM> may refer to a display, at least a partial area of which is able to be transformed into a flat surface or a curved surface. In an embodiment, the display <NUM> may include a folding area <NUM>, a first area <NUM> disposed on one side of the folding area <NUM> (on the left side of the folding area <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>), and a second area <NUM> disposed on an opposite side of the folding area <NUM> (on the right side of the folding area <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>). The areas of the display <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> are illustrative, and the display <NUM> may be divided into a plurality of (e.g., four or more, or two) areas depending on the structure or function of the display <NUM>. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the areas of the display <NUM> may be divided from each other by the folding area <NUM> extending parallel to the y axis or by the folding axis (the axis A). However, in another embodiment, the display <NUM> may be divided into areas with respect to another folding area (e.g., a folding area parallel to the x axis) or another folding axis (e.g., a folding axis parallel to the x axis).

The first area <NUM> and the second area <NUM> may entirely have symmetrical shapes with respect to the folding area <NUM>. Unlike the first area <NUM>, the second area <NUM> may include a notch that is cut according to the presence of the sensor area <NUM>. However, in the other area, the second area <NUM> may have a shape symmetric to that of the first area <NUM>. In other words, the first area <NUM> and the second area <NUM> may each include a portion having a symmetrical shape and a portion having an asymmetrical shape.

Hereinafter, operations of the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> and the areas of the display <NUM> according to states (e.g., a flat state and a folded state) of the electronic device <NUM> will be described.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in a flat state (e.g., <FIG>), the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be arranged to face the same direction while forming an angle of <NUM> degrees. The surface of the first area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> thereof may face the same direction (e.g., the forward direction of the electronic device) while forming an angle of <NUM> degrees. The folding area <NUM> may form the same plane together with the first area <NUM> and the second area <NUM>. In an embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in a folded state (e.g., <FIG>), the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may face each other. The surface of the first area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> thereof may face each other while forming a narrow angle (e.g., an angle between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees). At least part of the folding area <NUM> may form a curved surface having a predetermined curvature.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device <NUM> is in an intermediate state (e.g., <FIG>), the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be arranged with a certain angle therebetween. The surface of the first area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and the surface of the second area <NUM> thereof may form an angle that is greater than that in the folded state and is smaller than that in the flat state. At least part of the folding area <NUM> may form a curved surface having a predetermined curvature, and the curvature may be smaller than that in the folded state.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view illustrating a foldable electronic device including a waterproof structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, in an embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> may include a display unit <NUM>, a bracket assembly <NUM>, a PCB <NUM>, the first housing structure <NUM>, the second housing structure <NUM>, the first back cover <NUM>, and the second back cover <NUM>. In this disclosure, the display unit <NUM> may be referred to as a display module or a display assembly.

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

The bracket assembly <NUM> may include a first bracket <NUM>, a second bracket <NUM>, a hinge structure disposed between the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM>, the hinge cover <NUM> that covers the hinge structure when viewed from the outside, and a wiring member <NUM> (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)) across the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the bracket assembly <NUM> may be disposed between the plate <NUM> and the PCB <NUM>. For example, the first bracket <NUM> may be disposed between the first area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and a first PCB <NUM>. The second bracket <NUM> may be disposed between the second area <NUM> of the display <NUM> and a second PCB <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the wiring member <NUM> and at least part of the hinge structure may be disposed inside the bracket assembly <NUM>. The wiring member <NUM> may be arranged in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) across the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM>. The wiring member <NUM> may be arranged in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) that is perpendicular to a folding axis (e.g., the y-axis or the folding axis A of <FIG>) of the folding area <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>.

As mentioned above, the PCB <NUM> may include the first PCB <NUM> disposed toward the first bracket <NUM> and the second PCB <NUM> disposed toward the second bracket <NUM>. The first PCB <NUM> and the second PCB <NUM> may be disposed in the space formed by the bracket assembly <NUM>, the first housing structure <NUM>, the second housing structure <NUM>, the first back cover <NUM>, and the second back cover <NUM>. Parts for implementing various functions of the electronic device <NUM> may be mounted on the first PCB <NUM> and the second PCB <NUM>. The first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be assembled together to be coupled to opposite sides of the bracket assembly <NUM> having the display unit <NUM> coupled thereto. As will be described below, the first housing structure <NUM> and the second housing structure <NUM> may be coupled with the bracket assembly <NUM> by sliding along the opposite sides of the bracket assembly <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the first housing structure <NUM> may include a first rotation support surface <NUM>, and the second housing structure <NUM> may include a second rotation support surface <NUM> corresponding to the first rotation support surface <NUM>. The first rotation support surface <NUM> and the second rotation support surface <NUM> may include curved surfaces that correspond to curved surfaces included in the hinge cover <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An electronic device including a waterproof structure, the electronic device comprising:
a first housing (<NUM>) including a first connecting hole (110b_2) through one surface of the first housing (<NUM>);
a second housing (<NUM>);
a hinge structure (<NUM>) to connect the first housing (<NUM>) and the second housing (<NUM>) and support a hinge motion of the first housing (<NUM>) or the second housing (<NUM>);
a display (<NUM>) disposed across the first housing (<NUM>) and the second housing (<NUM>), the display (<NUM>) having flexibility such that at least part of a central portion thereof is able to be bent;
a first printed circuit board (<NUM>) disposed in the first housing (<NUM>);
a second printed circuit board (<NUM>) disposed in the second housing (<NUM>);
a first connecting printed circuit board, PCB, (71a) disposed to cover at least part of an opening on one side of the first connecting hole (110b_2) and electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (<NUM>); and
a flexible PCB (<NUM>), at least part of which is disposed in the hinge structure (<NUM>), wherein one side of the flexible PCB (<NUM>) is electrically connected with the first connecting PCB (71a).