CN112020693A

CN112020693A - Electronic device with coating for protecting window

Info

Publication number: CN112020693A
Application number: CN202080000715.0A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 安成浩; 金钟该
Original assignee: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd
Current assignee: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd
Priority date: 2019-03-29
Filing date: 2020-03-30
Publication date: 2020-12-01
Also published as: KR20200115092A

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an electronic device, including: a deformable display panel; a first window disposed on the deformable display panel; a first adhesive disposed between the deformable display panel and the first window; a second window disposed on the first window, the second window including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first surface and the second surface; a second adhesive disposed between the first window and the second window; and a Shatter Prevention Coating (SPC) disposed on at least a portion of a side surface of the second window and the first surface of the second window. Other embodiments are possible.

Description

Electronic device with coating for protecting window

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to electronic devices. For example, various embodiments relate to an electronic device having a coating for protecting a display window.

Background

The electronic device may include at least one display. In order to provide a wider screen, efforts are being made to expand the size of a display area of a display included in an electronic device. For example, electronic devices having a deformable display panel such as a foldable display panel, a rollable display panel, an expandable display panel, or a flexible display panel have been developed.

Disclosure of Invention

Technical problem

The electronic device may include a deformable display panel and at least one window for protecting the deformable display panel. The thickness of at least one window may be thinner than that of at least another window for protecting the non-deformable display panel to be deformed according to deformation of the deformable display panel. Therefore, a plan for protecting at least one window for protecting a deformable display panel may be required.

The above information is presented as background information only to aid in understanding the present disclosure. There is no determination, nor assertion, as to whether any of the above can be used as prior art with respect to the present disclosure.

Solution to the problem

According to an example embodiment, an electronic device includes: a deformable display panel; a first window disposed on the deformable display panel; a first adhesive disposed between the deformable display panel and the first window; a second window disposed on the first window, the second window including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first surface and the second surface; a second adhesive disposed between the first window and the second window; and a Shatter Prevention Coating (SPC) applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the second window and the first surface of the second window.

According to an example embodiment, an electronic device includes: a deformable display panel; a first window disposed on the deformable display panel, the first window including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first surface and the second surface; a first adhesive disposed between the deformable display panel and the first window; a Shatter Prevention Coating (SPC) applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the second window and the first surface of the second window; wherein the second window is disposed on the first window; and a second adhesive disposed between the first window and the second window.

Invented effective fruit

An electronic device according to various embodiments includes a shatter prevention coating or adhesive layer applied to at least a portion of a window provided on a display panel so that the window may be protected.

Effects obtainable in the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described effects, and other effects not mentioned may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

Drawings

The foregoing and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a network environment, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example display, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3a is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in an expanded state, according to an embodiment;

fig. 3b is a diagram showing a folded state of the electronic device according to the embodiment;

fig. 3c is an exploded perspective view of an example electronic device, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4a is a cross-sectional view of an example display of an electronic device according to an embodiment;

fig. 4b is a diagram illustrating an example of a protective layer according to an embodiment;

fig. 5a to 5c are diagrams illustrating additional examples of protective layers according to embodiments;

fig. 6a is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display of an electronic device according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6b is a diagram illustrating an example of an outer layer according to an embodiment;

fig. 7a is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display of an electronic device according to an embodiment;

fig. 7b is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display of an electronic device according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example first window of a display according to an embodiment;

fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display according to the embodiment;

fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first window and a shatter prevention coating according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11a is a diagram illustrating an exemplary first window and a shatter protection coating, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11b is a diagram illustrating an exemplary first window and a shatter protection coating, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11c is a diagram illustrating an exemplary first window and a shatter protection coating, according to an embodiment;

fig. 12a is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display according to an embodiment;

fig. 12b is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display according to an embodiment;

fig. 13a is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display according to an embodiment;

fig. 13b is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a display according to an embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the electronic device taken along line B-B' of FIG. 3 a; and

fig. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first window provided with a shatter prevention coating according to an embodiment.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device 1001 in a network environment 1000 in accordance with various embodiments. Referring to fig. 1, an electronic device 1001 in a network environment 1000 may communicate with an electronic device 1002 via a first network 1098 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with the electronic device 1004 or a server 1008 via a second network 1099 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 1001 may communicate with the electronic device 1004 via the server 1008. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 1001 may include a processor 1020, a memory 1030, an input device 1050, a sound output device 1055, a display device 1060, an audio module 1070, a sensor module 1076, an interface 1077, a haptic module 1079, a camera module 1080, a power management module 1088, a battery 1089, a communication module 1090, a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM)1096, or an antenna module 1097. In some embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., display device 1060 or camera module 1080) may be omitted from electronic device 1001, or one or more other components may be added to electronic device 1001. In some embodiments, some of the components may be implemented as a single integrated circuit. For example, the sensor module 1076 (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented to be embedded in the display device 1060 (e.g., a display).

The processor 1020 may run, for example, software (e.g., the programs 1040) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware component or a software component) of the electronic device 1001 connected to the processor 1020 and may perform various data processing or calculations. According to an embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, processor 1020 may load commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 1076 or communication module 1090) into volatile memory 1032, process the commands or data stored in volatile memory 1032, and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory 1034. According to an embodiment, the processor 1020 may include a main processor 1021 (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or an Application Processor (AP)) and an auxiliary processor 1023 (e.g., a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), an Image Signal Processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a Communication Processor (CP)) operatively independent of or in conjunction with the main processor 1021. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary processor 1023 may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor 1021, or be adapted specifically for a specified function. The auxiliary processor 1023 may be implemented separately from the main processor 1021, or as part of the main processor 1021.

The auxiliary processor 1023 may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one of the components of the electronic device 1001 (e.g., the display device 1060, the sensor module 1076, or the communication module 1090) while the main processor 1021 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or the auxiliary processor 1023 may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one of the components of the electronic device 1001 (e.g., the display device 1060, the sensor module 1076, or the communication module 1090) with the main processor 1021 while the main processor 1021 is in an active state (e.g., running an application). According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor 1023 (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., a camera module 1080 or a communication module 1090) that is functionally related to the auxiliary processor 1023.

The memory 1030 may store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device 1001 (e.g., the processor 1020 or the sensor module 1076). The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., program 1040) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. Memory 1030 may include volatile memory 1032 or nonvolatile memory 1034.

The programs 1040 may be stored as software in the memory 1030, and the programs 1040 may include, for example, an Operating System (OS)1042, a middleware 1044, or an application 1046.

The input device 1050 may receive commands or data from outside the electronic device 1001 (e.g., a user) that are to be used by other components of the electronic device 1001 (e.g., the processor 1020). Input devices 1050 may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus).

The sound output device 1055 may output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device 1001. The sound output device 1055 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes such as playing multimedia or playing a record and the receiver may be used for incoming calls. Depending on the embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separate from the speaker, or as part of the speaker.

Display device 1060 may visually provide information to an exterior (e.g., a user) of electronic device 1001. Display device 1060 may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and control circuitry for controlling a respective one of the display, holographic device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the display device 1060 may include a touch circuit adapted to detect a touch or a sensor circuit (e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure an intensity of a force caused by the touch.

The audio module 1070 may convert sound into electrical signals and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module 1070 may obtain sound via the input device 1050 or output sound via the sound output device 1055 or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 1002) directly (e.g., wired) connected or wirelessly connected with the electronic device 1001.

The sensor module 1076 may detect an operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 1001 or an environmental state (e.g., state of a user) outside the electronic device 1001 and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to an embodiment, the sensor module 1076 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an Infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface 1077 may support one or more specific protocols to be used to directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly connect the electronic device 1001 with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 1002). According to an embodiment, the interface 1077 may include, for example, a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a Secure Digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

The connection end 1078 may include a connector via which the electronic device 1001 may be physically connected with an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 1002). According to an embodiment, the connection end 1078 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module 1079 may convert the electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or motion) or an electrical stimulus that can be recognized by the user via his sense of touch or movement. According to embodiments, the haptic module 1079 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

The camera module 1080 may capture still images or moving images. According to an embodiment, camera module 1080 may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, an image signal processor, or a flash.

The power management module 1088 may manage power to the electronic device 1001. According to an embodiment, the power management module 1088 may be implemented as at least part of a Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC), for example.

A battery 1089 may power at least one component of the electronic device 1001. According to an embodiment, the battery 1089 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

The communication module 1090 may support establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device 1001 and an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 1002, the electronic device 1004, or the server 1008), and perform communication via the established communication channel. The communication module 1090 may include one or more communication processors capable of operating independently of the processor 1020 (e.g., an Application Processor (AP)) and may support direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module 1090 may include a wireless communication module 1092 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 1094 (e.g., a Local Area Network (LAN) communication module or a Power Line Communication (PLC) module). A respective one of the communication modules may communicate with external electronic devices via a first network 1098 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as bluetooth, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network 1099 (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a cellular network, the internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or Wide Area Network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multiple components (e.g., multiple chips) that are separate from one another. The wireless communication module 1092 may identify and authenticate the electronic device 1001 in a communication network, such as the first network 1098 or the second network 1099, using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identity module 1096.

The antenna module 1097 may transmit signals or power to or receive signals or power from outside of the electronic device 1001 (e.g., an external electronic device). According to an embodiment, the antenna module 1097 may include an antenna including a radiating element composed of a conductive material or conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to an embodiment, the antenna module 1097 may include a plurality of antennas. In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication scheme used in a communication network, such as the first network 1098 or the second network 1099, may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module 1090 (e.g., the wireless communication module 1092). Signals or power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module 1090 and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, additional components other than the radiating elements, such as a Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit (RFIC), may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module 1097.

At least some of the above components may be interconnected and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) communicatively between them via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., bus, General Purpose Input Output (GPIO), Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), or Mobile Industry Processor Interface (MIPI)).

According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 1001 and the external electronic device 1004 via the server 1008 connected to the second network 1099. Each of the electronic device 1002 and the electronic device 1004 may be the same type of device as the electronic device 1001 or a different type of device from the electronic device 1001. According to an embodiment, all or some of the operations to be performed at the electronic device 1001 may be performed at one or more of the external electronic device 1002, the external electronic device 1004, or the server 1008. For example, if the electronic device 1001 should automatically perform a function or service or should perform a function or service in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 1001 may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of or in addition to performing the function or service. The one or more external electronic devices that receive the request may perform the requested at least part of the functions or services or perform another function or another service related to the request and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device 1001. The electronic device 1001 may provide the result as at least a partial reply to the request with or without further processing of the result. To this end, for example, cloud computing technology, distributed computing technology, or client-server computing technology may be used.

Fig. 2 is a block diagram 1100 illustrating an example display device 1060 according to various embodiments. Referring to fig. 2, the display device 1060 may include a display 1110 and a display driver integrated circuit (DDI)1130 for controlling the display 1110. The DDI 1130 may include an interface module 1131, a memory 1133 (e.g., a buffer memory), an image processing module 1135, or a mapping module 1137. The DDI 1130 may receive image information including image data or an image control signal corresponding to a command for controlling the image data from another component of the electronic device 1001 via the interface module 1131. For example, according to an embodiment, image information may be received from a processor 1020 (e.g., a main processor 1021 (e.g., an application processor)) or an auxiliary processor 1023 (e.g., a graphics processing unit), wherein the auxiliary processor 1023 operates independently of the functions of the main processor 1021. The DDI 1130 may communicate with, for example, the touch circuitry 1050 or the sensor module 1076 via the interface module 1131. The DDI 1130 may also store at least a portion of the received image information in the memory 1133, e.g., on a frame-by-frame basis. Image processing module 1135 may perform pre-processing or post-processing (e.g., adjustments to resolution, brightness, or size) for at least a portion of the image data. According to an embodiment, pre-processing or post-processing may be performed based at least in part on one or more features of the image data or one or more features of the display 1110, for example. The mapping module 1137 may generate voltage values or current values corresponding to the image data pre-processed or post-processed by the image processing module 1135. According to an embodiment, the generation of the voltage or current values may be performed, for example, based at least in part on one or more properties of the pixel, such as an array of pixels (such as RGB stripe or pentile structures) or the size of each sub-pixel. For example, at least some pixels of display 1110 may be driven based at least in part on voltage or current values such that visual information (e.g., text, images, or icons) corresponding to image data may be displayed via display 1110.

According to an embodiment, the display device 1060 may also include a touch circuit 1150. The touch circuit 1150 may include a touch sensor 1151 and a touch sensor IC 1153 for controlling the touch sensor 1151. Touch sensor IC 1153 may control touch sensor 1151 to sense a touch input or a hover input for a particular location on display 1110. To this end, for example, touch sensor 1151 may detect (e.g., measure) a signal (e.g., a voltage, an amount of light, a resistance, or one or more amounts of charge) corresponding to a particular location on display 1110. The touch circuitry 1150 may provide input information (e.g., location, area, pressure, or time) indicative of touch input or hover input detected via the touch sensor 1151 to the processor 1020. According to an embodiment, at least a portion of touch circuitry 1150 (e.g., touch sensor IC 1153) can be formed as part of display 1110 or DDI 1130 or as part of another component external to display device 1060 (e.g., auxiliary processor 1023).

According to an embodiment, the display device 1060 may also include at least one sensor (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, a pressure sensor, or an illuminance sensor) of the sensor module 1076 or a control circuit for the at least one sensor. In such a case, the at least one sensor or control circuitry for the at least one sensor may be embedded in a portion of a component of the display device 1060 (e.g., the display 1110, the DDI 1130, or the touch circuitry 1050). For example, when sensor module 1076 embedded in display device 1060 includes a biometric sensor (e.g., a fingerprint sensor), the biometric sensor may acquire biometric information (e.g., a fingerprint image) corresponding to a touch input received via a portion of display 1110. As another example, when the sensor module 1076 embedded in the display device 1060 includes a pressure sensor, the pressure sensor may acquire pressure information corresponding to a touch input received via a partial area or an entire area of the display 1110. According to embodiments, touch sensor 1151 or sensor module 1076 may be disposed between pixels in a pixel layer of display 1110, or above or below the pixel layer.

Fig. 3a is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment, and fig. 3b is a diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment.

The electronic device 10 of fig. 3a and 3b may be the same as or similar to the electronic device 1001 of fig. 1.

Referring to fig. 3a and 3b, in an embodiment, the electronic device 10 may include a foldable housing 500, a hinge cover 530 covering a foldable portion of the foldable housing 500, and a flexible, foldable, or deformable display 100 (hereinafter abbreviated as "display 100") disposed in a space formed by the foldable housing 500.

Herein, the surface on which the display 100 is disposed is defined as a first surface or front surface of the electronic device 10. The surface opposite the front surface is defined as a second or back surface of the electronic device 10. Further, a surface surrounding a space between the front surface and the rear surface is defined as a third surface or a side surface of the electronic device 10.

In an embodiment, the foldable housing 500 may include a first housing structure 510, a second housing structure 520 including a sensor region 524, a first back cover 580, and a second back cover 590. The foldable housing 500 of the electronic device 10 is not limited to the shapes and connections shown in fig. 3a and 2, and may be implemented by another shape or combination and/or connection of components. For example, in another embodiment, the first housing structure 510 and the first back cover 580 may be integrally formed, and the second housing structure 520 and the second back cover 590 may be integrally formed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first and

second housing structures

510 and 520 are disposed on both sides centered on the folding axis (axis a), and may have an overall symmetrical shape with respect to the folding axis a. As will be described below, the angle or distance formed by the first and

second housing structures

510 and 520 may be changed depending on whether the state of the electronic device 10 is the unfolded state, the folded state, or the intermediate state. In the illustrated embodiment, the second housing structure 520 further includes a sensor region 524 in which various sensors are disposed, unlike the first housing structure 510, but the second housing structure 520 may have a symmetrical shape in regions other than the sensor region 524.

In an embodiment, as shown in fig. 3a, the first and

second housing structures

510 and 520 may form a recess to accommodate the display 100 together. In the illustrated embodiment, the recess may have two or more widths different from each other in a direction perpendicular to the folding axis a due to the sensor region 524.

For example, the recess may have: (1) a first width w1 between a first portion 510a of the first housing structure 510 parallel to the folding axis a and a first portion 520a of the second housing structure 520 formed at the periphery of the sensor region 524; (2) a second width w2 formed by the second portion 510b of the first housing structure 510 and the second portion 520b of the second housing structure 520, excluding the sensor area 524, parallel to the folding axis a. In this case, the second width w2 may be formed to be longer than the first width w 1. In other words, the first portion 510a of the first housing structure 510 and the first portion 520a of the second housing structure 520, which are asymmetrically shaped with respect to each other, may form a first width w1 of the recess, while the second portion 510b of the first housing structure 510 and the second portion 520b of the second housing structure 520, which are symmetrically shaped with respect to each other, may form a second width w2 of the recess. In an embodiment, the first and

second portions

520a and 520b of the second housing structure 520 may differ from each other in distance from the folding axis a. The width of the recess is not limited to the example shown. In embodiments, the recess may have multiple widths depending on the shape of the sensor region 524 or the asymmetric portions of the first housing structure 510 and the second housing structure 520.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing structure 510 and at least a portion of the second housing structure 520 may be formed of a metallic or non-metallic material having a selected magnitude of stiffness to support the display 100.

In an embodiment, the sensor region 524 may be formed to have a specific region in the vicinity of one corner of the second housing structure 520. However, the layout, shape, and size of the sensor area 524 are not limited to the illustrated example. For example, in another embodiment, the sensor region 524 may be provided to another corner of the second housing structure 520 or in any region between the upper and lower corners of the second housing structure 520. In embodiments, components mounted in the electronic device 10 for performing various functions may be exposed to the first surface of the electronic device 10 through the sensor area 524 or through one or more openings provided in the sensor area 524. In an embodiment, the component may include various sensors. The sensor may comprise at least one of a front facing camera, a receiver, or a proximity sensor, for example.

The first rear cover 580 may be disposed on a rear surface of the electronic device at one side of the folding axis, and for example, has a substantially rectangular periphery, and the periphery may be surrounded by the first case structure 510. Also, a second rear cover 590 may be disposed on the rear surface of the electronic device at the other side of the folding axis, and the periphery of the second rear cover 590 may be surrounded by the second case structure 520.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second rear covers 580 and 590 may be substantially symmetrical in shape with respect to the folding axis a. However, the first and second rear covers 580 and 590 do not necessarily have to be symmetrical in shape with each other. In another embodiment, the electronic device 10 may include a first rear cover 580 and a second rear cover 590 having various shapes. In yet another embodiment, the first rear cover 580 may be integrally formed with the first housing structure 510, and the second rear cover 590 may be integrally formed with the second housing structure 520.

In an embodiment, the first back cover 580, the second back cover 590, the first housing structure 510, and the second housing structure 520 may form a space in which various components of the electronic device 10 (e.g., a printed circuit board or a battery) may be disposed. In embodiments, one or more components may be disposed on or visually exposed at a rear surface of the electronic device 10. For example, at least a portion of secondary display 190 may be visually exposed through first rear area 582 of first rear cover 580. In another embodiment, one or more components or sensors may be visually exposed through the second rear area 592 of the second rear cover 590. In an embodiment, the sensor may comprise a proximity sensor and/or a rear facing camera.

Referring to fig. 3b, a hinge cover 530 may be disposed between the first and

second housing structures

510 and 520 and configured to cover the internal components (e.g., hinge structure). In an embodiment, the hinge cover 530 may be covered by a portion of the first and

second case structures

510 and 520 or exposed to the outside according to a state (e.g., an unfolded state or a folded state) of the electronic device 10.

For example, as shown in fig. 3a, with the electronic device 10 in the unfolded state, the hinge cover 530 may be covered by the first and

second housing structures

510 and 520 and may not be exposed. For example, as shown in fig. 3b, in a case where the electronic device 10 is in a folded state (e.g., a fully folded state), the hinge cover 530 may be exposed to the outside between the first case structure 510 and the second case structure 520. For example, in a case where the electronic device 10 is in an intermediate state in which the first and

second case structures

510 and 520 are folded at an angle, the hinge cover 530 may be partially exposed to the outside between the first and

second case structures

510 and 520. However, the area to which the hinge cover 530 is exposed in the intermediate state may be smaller than the area to which the hinge cover 530 is exposed in the fully folded state. In an embodiment, the hinge cover 530 may include a curved surface.

The display 100 may be disposed in a space formed by the foldable housing 500. For example, the display 100 is located on a recess formed by the foldable housing 500 and may form a majority of the front surface of the electronic device 10.

Accordingly, the front surface of the electronic device 10 may include the display 100, and partial areas of the first and

second housing structures

510 and 520 adjacent to the display 100. The rear surface of the electronic device 10 may include a first rear cover 580, a partial region of the first housing structure 510 adjacent to the first rear cover 580, a second rear cover 590, and a partial region of the second housing structure 520 adjacent to the second rear cover 590.

The display 100 may be a display in which at least a partial region is capable of being deformed into a flat surface or a curved surface. In an embodiment, the display 100 may include a folding area 103, a first area 101 disposed at one side (left side of the folding area 103 shown in fig. 3a) based on the folding area 103, and a second area 102 disposed at the other side (right side of the folding area 103 shown in fig. 3a) based on the folding area 103.

The division of the region of the display 100 shown in fig. 3a is illustrative, and the display 100 may be divided into a plurality of regions (e.g., four or more regions or two regions) according to structure or function. For example, in the embodiment shown in fig. 3a, the area of the display 100 may be divided by a folding area 103 extending parallel to the y-axis or by a folding axis a. In another embodiment, the area of the display 100 may be divided by another fold region (e.g., a fold region parallel to the x-axis) or another fold axis (e.g., a fold axis parallel to the x-axis).

The first region 101 and the second region 102 may be symmetrical in shape as a whole with respect to the folding region 103. However, unlike the first region 101, the second region 102 may include a notch due to the presence of the sensor region 524, but in a region other than the notch, the second region 102 may be symmetrical in shape with respect to the first region 101. In other words, the first and

second regions

101 and 102 may include portions having shapes symmetrical to each other and portions having shapes asymmetrical to each other.

Hereinafter, the operation of the first case structure 510, the operation of the second receiving structure 520, and each region of the display 100 according to the states (e.g., the unfolded state and the folded state) of the electronic device 10 will be described.

In an embodiment, the first housing structure 510 and the second housing structure 520 may be disposed at an angle of 180 ° to face the same direction with the electronic device 10 in the unfolded state (e.g., fig. 3 a). The surfaces of the first and

second regions

101 and 102 of the display 100 may form an angle of 180 ° with respect to each other and face the same direction (e.g., the direction of the front surface of the electronic device). The fold region 103 may form the same flat surface as the first region 101 and the second region 102.

In an embodiment, the first and

second housing structures

510 and 520 may be disposed to face each other with the electronic device 10 in a folded state (e.g., fig. 3 b). The surfaces of the first and

second regions

101 and 102 of the display 100 may form a narrow angle (e.g., between 0 ° and 10 °) with respect to each other and face each other. The folding region 103 may be formed to have a curved surface, wherein at least a portion of the curved surface has a curvature.

In an embodiment, the first housing structure 510 and the second housing structure 520 may be disposed at a particular angle relative to each other with the electronic device 10 in the intermediate state. The surfaces of the first and

second regions

101 and 102 of the display 100 may form an angle greater than the folded state and less than the unfolded state. The folding region 103 may be formed to have a curved surface, wherein at least a portion of the curved surface has a curvature. In this case, the curvature may be smaller than that of the folded state.

In another embodiment, the direction in which the foldable housing 500 is folded may be different from the direction shown in fig. 3 b. For example, the foldable housing 500 may be folded in a direction opposite to that shown in fig. 3 b. For example, in a state where the electronic device 10 is completely folded, the rear surface of the first housing structure 510 and the rear surface of the second housing structure 520 may be disposed to face each other, and the entire display 100 may be seen from the outside.

In another embodiment, the foldable housing 500 of the electronic device 10 may be variously changed in design within the range applicable to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the electronic device 10 may include a third housing structure (not shown) and a connection member (e.g., a hinge structure) that enables a folding operation after the third housing structure is combined with the second housing structure 520. The third housing structure may rotate about the second housing structure 520 in a first direction (e.g., clockwise), and the first housing structure 510 disposed on the side opposite the third housing structure may rotate about the second housing structure 520 in the same direction as the first direction (e.g., clockwise) or a different direction from the first direction (e.g., counterclockwise). For another example, the foldable housing 500 may be implemented as a rollable housing in which at least a portion thereof may be rolled or unfolded.

Fig. 3c is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example electronic device according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 3c, in an embodiment, the electronic device 10 may include a display unit 20, a stand assembly 30, a board 600, a first housing structure 510, a second housing structure 520, a first rear cover 580, and a second rear cover 590. As used herein, a display unit 20 may be referred to as a display module or a display assembly.

The display unit 20 may include, for example, a display 100 and one or more sheets or layers 140, the display 100 being positioned on the one or more sheets or layers 140. In embodiments, the sheet 140 may be disposed between the display 100 and the stand assembly 30. The display 100 may be disposed on at least a portion of one surface (e.g., the upper surface based on fig. 3 c) of the sheet 140. The sheet 140 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the display 100. For example, a partial region of the sheet 140 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the notch (notch)104 of the display 100.

The cradle assembly 30 may include a first cradle 410, a second cradle 420, a hinge structure disposed between the first cradle 410 and the second cradle 420, a hinge cover 530 covering the hinge structure when viewed from the outside, and a wiring member 430 (e.g., a Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC)) crossing the first cradle 410 and the second cradle 420.

In an embodiment, the bracket assembly 30 may be disposed between the plate 140 and the plate 600. For example, the first bracket 410 may be disposed between the first region 101 and the first plate 610 of the display 100. The second bracket 420 may be disposed between the second region 102 of the display 100 and the second plate 620.

In an embodiment, the wiring member 430 and at least a portion of the hinge structure 300 may be disposed inside the cradle assembly 30. The wiring member 430 may be disposed in a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) across the first and

second brackets

410 and 420. The wiring member 430 may be disposed in a direction (e.g., an x-axis direction) perpendicular to a folding axis (e.g., y-axis or folding axis a of fig. 3a) of the folding region 103 of the electronic device 10.

As described above, the plate 600 may include the first plate 610 disposed on one side of the first bracket 410 and the second plate 620 disposed on one side of the second bracket 420. The first plate 610 and the second plate 620 may be disposed in a space defined by the bracket assembly 30, the first housing structure 510, the second housing structure 520, the first rear cover 580, and the second rear cover 590. Components for implementing various functions of the electronic device 10 may be mounted on the first board 610 and the second board 620.

The first and

second case structures

510 and 520 may be assembled with each other to be coupled from both sides of the stand assembly 30 in a state where the display unit 20 is coupled to the stand assembly 30. The first and

second housing structures

510, 520 may be coupled to the bracket assembly 30 by sliding on both sides of the bracket assembly 30, as described below.

In an embodiment, the first housing structure 510 may include a first rotational support surface 512 and the second housing structure 520 may include a second rotational support surface 522 corresponding to the first rotational support surface 512. The first and second

rotation supporting surfaces

512 and 522 may include curved surfaces corresponding to the curved surfaces included in the hinge cover 530.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device 10 is in the unfolded state (e.g., the electronic device of fig. 3a), the first rotation supporting face 512 and the second rotation supporting face 522 may cover the hinge cover 530, and the hinge cover 530 may not be exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device 10 or may be minimally exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device 10. When the electronic device 10 is in a folded state (e.g., the electronic device of fig. 3b), the first rotation supporting face 512 and the second rotation supporting face 522 may rotate along a curved surface included in the hinge cover 530, and the hinge cover 530 may be maximally exposed to the rear surface of the electronic device 10.

The electronic device according to various embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smart phones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, home appliances, and the like. According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the electronic devices are not limited to those described above.

It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features set forth herein to specific embodiments, but include various changes, equivalents, or alternatives to the respective embodiments. For the description of the figures, like reference numerals may be used to refer to like or related elements. It will be understood that a noun in the singular corresponding to a term may include one or more things unless the relevant context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, each of the phrases such as "a or B," "at least one of a and B," "at least one of a or B," "A, B or C," "at least one of A, B and C," and "at least one of A, B or C" may include any or all possible combinations of the items listed together with the respective one of the plurality of phrases. As used herein, terms such as "1 st" and "2 nd" or "first" and "second" may be used to distinguish one element from another element simply and not to limit the elements in other respects (e.g., importance or order). It will be understood that, if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being "coupled" with another element (e.g., a second element), "connected" with another element (e.g., a second element), or "connected" to another element (e.g., a second element), where the terms "operable" or "communicatively coupled" are used or not used, the element may be directly (e.g., wiredly) connected, wirelessly connected, or connected via a third element to the other element.

As used herein, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, or any combination thereof, and may be used interchangeably with other terms (e.g., "logic," "logic block," "portion," or "circuitry"). A module may be a single integrated component adapted to perform one or more functions or a minimal unit or portion of the single integrated component. For example, according to an embodiment, the modules may be implemented in the form of Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs).

The various embodiments set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., program 1040) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory 1036 or external memory 1038) that are readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device 1001). For example, under control of a processor, a processor (e.g., processor 1020) of the machine (e.g., electronic device 1001) may invoke and execute at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, with or without the use of one or more other components. This enables the machine to be operable to perform at least one function in accordance with the invoked at least one instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code capable of being executed by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Where a "non-transitory" storage medium is a tangible device and may include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), the term does not distinguish between data being stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and data being stored temporarily in the storage medium.

According to embodiments, methods according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be used as a product for conducting a transaction between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed via an application Store (e.g., Play Store)^TM) The computer program product is published (e.g. downloaded or uploaded) online, or may be distributed (e.g. downloaded or uploaded) directly between two user devices (e.g. smartphones). At least part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated if it is published online, or at least part of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored in a machine readable storage medium, such as a memory of a manufacturer's server, a server of an application store, or a forwarding server.

According to various embodiments, each of the above components (e.g., modules or programs) may comprise a single entity or multiple entities. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as the corresponding one of the plurality of components performed the one or more functions prior to integration. Operations performed by a module, program, or another component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or in a heuristic manner, or one or more of the operations may be performed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added, in accordance with various embodiments.

Fig. 4a is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the display 100 of the electronic device according to the embodiment.

Fig. 4b is a diagram illustrating an example of a protective layer according to an embodiment.

Fig. 5a is a diagram illustrating an example of a protective layer according to an embodiment, fig. 5b is a diagram illustrating an example of a protective layer according to an embodiment, and fig. 5c is a diagram illustrating an example of a protective layer according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 4a, the display 100 of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 1001) according to an embodiment may include at least one of a display panel 4010, a first adhesive 4020, a first window 4030, a second adhesive 4040, a second window 4050, and/or a chipping protective coating (SPC) 4060.

In an embodiment, the display panel 4010 may be a deformable display panel. For example, the display panel 4010 may include, for example and without limitation, a rollable display panel, an extendable display panel, a foldable display panel, a flexible display panel, and the like.

In an embodiment, the display panel 4010 may include a cover plate (C-panel) for protecting the display panel 4010, a substrate (base board), a Thin Film Transistor (TFT) layer formed on the substrate, a pixel layer (or an organic light emitting layer) to which a signal voltage is applied from the TFT layer, and a polarization layer disposed on the pixel layer. The display panel 4010 may further include any elements, for example, a Thin Film Encapsulation (TFE) layer encapsulating the pixel layer, a back film for supporting the substrate, and the like. In an embodiment, the substrate is formed of a polymer material, for example, Polyimide (PI), to enable the flexibility of the substrate to be ensured, but is not limited thereto. In an embodiment, the plate may comprise at least one of polyethylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyamide, polyimide, polypropylene, or polyurethane. In an embodiment, the plate may be formed from a plurality of layers. In an embodiment, the polarizing layer imparts directivity to light (e.g., a pixel layer) emitted from the display panel 4010, so that resolution of an image displayed through the display panel 4010 may be improved.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may be disposed over the display panel 4010. In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may include, for example, but is not limited to, at least one of Polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyurethane (PU), cellulose Triacetate (TAC), ultra-thin glass (UTG), and the like.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may include multiple layers. For example, the first window 4030 can include at least one layer that includes UTG or a polymer material (e.g., PI, PET, PU, and/or TAC). For example, the first window 4030 can also include a coating on at least a portion of a first surface of the first window 4030 or a second surface of the first window 4030 opposite the first surface. For another example, where the first window 4030 includes multiple layers, at least one coating may further be included between the multiple layers of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may be produced, for example, but not limited to, by: thinning methods using chemical processes (e.g., etching) to cut thick glass; a surface non-contact type melting method of dropping and cooling a glass solution in air and forming a glass substrate (substrate); a roll method of pouring and extruding a glass solution between two rolls, and the like, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first window 4030 can be manufactured by various well-known methods.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may be referred to as a lower window in view of the first window 4030 being disposed below a second window 4050 (to be described below).

In an embodiment, the first adhesive 4020 may be interposed between the display panel 4010 and the first window 4030. For example, the first window 4030 can be adhered over the display panel 4010 via a first adhesive 4020.

In embodiments, the first adhesive 4020 may include, for example, but not limited to, at least one of an Optically Clear Adhesive (OCA), an Optically Clear Resin (OCR), a Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA), and the like.

In an embodiment, the second window 4050 can be disposed above the first window 4030. In an embodiment, the second window 4050 can include a first surface (e.g., an upper surface), a second surface (e.g., a lower surface) opposite the first surface, a side surface disposed between the first and second surfaces. In an embodiment, the second window 4050 may include, for example, but not limited to, at least one of Polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyurethane (PU), cellulose Triacetate (TAC), ultra-thin glass (UTG), and the like.

In an embodiment, the second window 4050 may be produced, for example, but not limited to, by: thinning methods using chemical processes (e.g., etching) to cut thick glass; a surface non-contact type melting method of dropping and cooling a glass solution in air and forming a glass substrate; a roll method of pouring and extruding a glass solution between two rolls, and the like, but is not limited thereto. For example, the second window 4050 can be manufactured by various well-known methods.

In an embodiment, the second window 4050 may be referred to as an upper window in view of the second window 4050 being disposed above the first window 4030. In an embodiment, the second window 4050 may be referred to as a protection window in view of protecting a window of the first window 4030 disposed below the second window 4050.

In an embodiment, the characteristics of the second window 4050 may be different from the characteristics of the first window 4030. For example, second window 4050 may include UTG and first window 4030 may include PI or PET, but they are not limited thereto.

In an embodiment, the second adhesive 4040 can be between the first window 4030 and the second window 4050. For example, the second window 4050 can be adhered over the first window 4030 via a second adhesive 4040.

In an embodiment, the second adhesive 4040 can include, for example, but is not limited to, at least one of Optically Clear Adhesive (OCA), Optically Clear Resin (OCR), Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA), and the like.

In an embodiment, the adhesion of the second adhesive 4040 can be less than the adhesion of the first adhesive 4020. For example, the thickness of the second adhesive 4040 applied to the first window 4030 can be thinner than the thickness of the first adhesive 4020 applied to the first window 4030. For example, instead of replacing the entire display 100 in the event of a crack being induced within the second window 4050 by an external force, the second window 4050 or at least one layer disposed on the second window 4050 (e.g., replacing at least one of the shatter resistant coating 4060, strength enhancement coating 5060, anti-fingerprint (AF) coating 6015, anti-glare (AG) coating 6025, anti-reflection (AR) coating 6035, and/or Low Refractive (LR) coating 6045, all of which are described in more detail below), the adhesion of the second adhesive 4040 may be lower than the adhesion of the first adhesive 4020. For example, since the adhesion of the second adhesive 4040 is lower than that of the first adhesive 4020, the second window 4050 or at least one layer provided on the second window 4050 may be separated from the display 100 in a state where the first window 4030 and the display panel 4010 are bonded. Although not shown in fig. 4a, in order to be separated from the display 100, at least one of the second window 4050 or a layer disposed on the second window 4050 may overlap with a partial area of the first window 4030 when viewed over the first surface. For example, to separate from the display 100, the size of the second window 4050 may be smaller than the size of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, a shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied on a first surface of the second window 4050. In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied or formed on at least a portion of a side surface of the second window 4050. In an embodiment, the shatter resistant coating 4060 may be formed by applying a shatter resistant solution directly to the second window 4050. For example, the shatter prevention coating 4060 may be applied to a portion of a side surface of the second window 4050 and the entire first surface of the second window 4050. For another example, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to the entire side surface of the second window 4050 and the entire first surface of the second window 4050. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 may include, for example, but not limited to, materials including, but not limited to, polysiloxane, acrylate compound, photopolymerization initiator, and the like.

In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may include portions whose adhesion forces are partially different. For example, referring to figure 4a, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may include a portion in physical contact with the second window 4050 and a portion not in physical contact with the second window 4050. The portion of the shatter resistant coating 4060 that is not in physical contact with the second window 4050 may have its adhesion reduced or removed by, for example, hardening its surface. For another example, referring to fig. 4a and 5a, the protective layer of fig. 4a may be replaced with the protective layer 5010 of fig. 5a, and the anti-splinter coating 4060 of the protective layer 5010 may include exposed portions without contacting the second window 4050 and the second adhesive 4040. The exposed portion of the shatter prevention coating 4060 of the protective layer 5010 may have an adhesion removed or lower than other portions. The adhesion force of the chipping prevention coating 4060 is partially different, so that it is possible to prevent and/or reduce foreign substances (e.g., dust) from adhering to portions that do not need to adhere while maintaining the bonding between other members.

The display 100 according to the embodiment may not include a Shatter Prevention Film (SPF) and may include a shatter prevention coating 4060. For example, in the case where the shatter prevention film is adhered to the second window 4050 by the adhesive, the quality of the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside may be reduced by the adhesive. For example, all of at least one of dents, protrusions, depressions, ripples, shrinkage, or cracks caused by the adhesive may degrade the quality of the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside. The display 100 of the electronic device 10 according to the embodiment includes the shatter prevention coating 4060 applied to one or more of the first surface of the second window 4050 and at least a portion of the side surface of the second window 4050 instead of the shatter prevention film (or the strength enhancement film), so that the quality of the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside can be improved. For example, the display 100 of the electronic device 10 according to the embodiment includes the shatter prevention coating 4060 which is applied to one or more of the first surface of the second window 4050 and at least a portion of the side surface of the second window 4050 without an adhesive, and thus the quality of the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside may be improved.

For another example, in the case where the shatter prevention film is adhered to the second window 4050, the shatter prevention film may be deformed by an external force applied to the surface of the display 100 (seen from the outside). For example, a pressed or pressed unrecoverable portion may be caused within the shatter prevention film by an external force applied to the surface (seen outside) of the display 100. The pressed or pressed unrecoverable portion may degrade the quality of the surface of the display 100 seen externally or cause erroneous recognition of the touch input. The display 100 of the electronic device according to the embodiment includes the shatter prevention coating 4060 applied to one or more of the first surface of the second window 4050 and at least a portion of the side surface of the second window 4050 instead of the shatter prevention film, so that the quality of the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside can be improved. For example, the display 100 of the electronic device 10 according to the embodiment includes the chipping prevention coating 4060, and the chipping prevention coating 4060 is applied to one or more of the first surface of the second window 4050 or at least a part of the side surface of the second window 4050, so that the quality of the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside can be improved.

For yet another example, in a case where the shatter prevention film is adhered to the display device having at least one defect in a portion of the side surface of the second window 4050, when the display device 100 is deformed, the second window 4050 may be damaged by the at least one defect. This is because the shatter prevention film is adhered only to the first surface of the second window 4050. The display 100 of the electronic device according to the embodiment includes the shatter prevention coating 4060, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 is applied to the first surface of the second window 4050 and at least a portion of the side surface of the second window 4050 instead of the shatter prevention film, whereby the strength of the second window 4050 can be enhanced. For example, because the electronic device 10 including the shatter prevention coating 4060 applied to the first surface of the second window 4050 and the entire side surface of the second window 4050 may cover all of the at least one defect within a portion of the side surface, it has greater crack resistance relative to an electronic device 10 including the shatter prevention coating 4060 applied to the first surface of the second window 4050 or a portion of the side surface of the second window 4050.

For yet another example, where the electronic device 10 is a foldable electronic device, the second window 4050 can have a folding axis (e.g., folding axis a of fig. 3 a). An electronic device 10 including a shatter prevention coating 4060 applied to a portion of a side surface of the second window that is substantially perpendicular to a fold axis (e.g., fold axis a of fig. 3a) has further enhanced crack resistance as compared to an electronic device 10 including a shatter prevention coating 4060 applied to a remaining portion of a side surface of the second window.

For another example, in the event that the second window 4050 (which is UTG) is damaged during use or replacement of the second window 4050, the second window 4050 may break. For example, a plan for preventing and/or reducing the fragmentation of the second window 4050 may be needed, as it may be cut by the fragmentation of the second window 4050. The display 100 of the electronic device 10 according to the embodiment includes the shatter prevention coating 4060, the shatter prevention coating 4060 is applied to one or more of the first surface of the second window 4050 or at least a portion of the side surface of the second window 4050, and thereby the second window 4050 may be prevented and/or reduced from being broken.

In an embodiment, the thickness of the shatter prevention coating 4060 may be, for example, about 15 μm, but is not limited thereto.

In an embodiment, the second window 4050 and the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be referred to as a protective layer 4070 in view of protecting the first window 4030 and the plurality of layers below the first window.

In embodiments, the protective layer 4070 shown in figure 4a may be replaced by various structures.

For example, referring to fig. 4b, protective layer 4070 may be replaced by protective layer 4170. In an embodiment, the protective layer 4170 may include the second window 4050 and the shatter prevention coating 4060 applied to the entire first surface of the second window 4050 or the entire side surface of the second window 4050. For example, the region of the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4170 surrounding the side surface may be wider than the region of the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4070 surrounding the side surface.

For another example, referring to fig. 4b, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced by a protective layer 4270. In an embodiment, the shape of the side surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270 may be a shape having a curvature. For example, a side surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270 may have a curvature. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4270 may be applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270 and having a curvature, and a first surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270. For example, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4270 may be applied to a portion of the side surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270 and having a curvature, and the entire first surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270. As another example, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4270 may be applied to the entire side surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270 and having a curvature, and the entire first surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270. In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may surround the second window 4150. For example, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4270 may be applied to the entire side surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270 and having a curvature, a first surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4270, and the entire second surface of the second window 4150 opposite to the first surface.

For another example, referring to fig. 4b, protective layer 4070 may be replaced by protective layer 4370. In an embodiment, a shape of a side surface of the second window 4250 included in the protective layer 4370 may be a chamfered shape. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4370 may be applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the second window 4250 included in the protective layer 4370 and having a chamfered shape, and a first surface of the second window 4250 included in the protective layer 4370. For example, the chipping prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4370 may be applied to a portion of the side surface of the second window 4250 included in the protective layer 4370 and having a chamfered shape, and the entire first surface of the second window 4250 included in the protective layer 4370. For another example, the chipping prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4370 may be applied to the entire side surface of the second window 4250 included in the protective layer 4370 and having a chamfered shape, and the entire first surface of the second window 4150 included in the protective layer 4370. In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may surround the second window 4250. For example, the chipping prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4370 may be applied to the entire side surface of the second window 4250 included in the protective layer 4370 and having a chamfered shape, a first surface of the second window 4250 included in the protective layer 4370, and the entire second surface of the second window 4250 opposite to the first surface.

For another example, referring to fig. 4b, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced by a protective layer 4470. In an embodiment, the shape of the side surface of the second window 4350 included in the protective layer 4470 may be a shape in which corners are rounded. For example, each corner of the second window 4350 may be rounded. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4470 may be applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the second window 4350 included in the protective layer 4470 and corners thereof are rounded, and a first surface of the second window 4350 included in the protective layer 4470. For example, the chipping prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4470 may be applied to a portion of the side surface of the second window 4350 which is included in the protective layer 4470 and whose corner is rounded, and the entire first surface of the second window 4350 which is included in the protective layer 4470. For another example, the chipping prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4470 may be applied to the entire side surface of the second window 4350 included in the protective layer 4470 and whose corners are rounded, and the entire first surface of the second window 4350 included in the protective layer 4470. In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may surround the second window 4350. For example, the chipping prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 4470 may be applied to the entire side surface of the second window 4350 which is included in the protective layer 4470 and whose corner is rounded, a first surface of the second window 4350 which is included in the protective layer 4470, and the entire second surface of the second window 4350 which is opposite to the first surface.

For another example, referring to fig. 5a, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced with a protective layer 5010. In an embodiment, the chipping prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5010 may be applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5010, and a second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5010. For example, where the display 100 includes the protective layer 5010, the second adhesive 4040 may be interposed between the first window 4030 and a portion of the shatter-resistant coating 4060 applied to the second window 4050 on the second surface included in the protective layer 5010.

For another example, referring to fig. 5a, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced by a protective layer 5020. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5020 can surround the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5020. For example, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5020 may be applied to all of the first surface, the side surface, and the second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5020. For example, where the display 100 includes a protective layer 5020, the second adhesive 4040 may be interposed between the first window 4030 and a portion of the shatter-resistant coating 4060 applied to a second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5020.

For another example, referring to fig. 5b, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced with a protective layer 5110. In an embodiment, second window 4050 included in protective layer 5110 may be between shatter resistant coating 4060 and strength enhancement coating 5060. In an embodiment, a strength enhancing coating 5060 may be provided to enhance the strength of the second window 4050. In an embodiment, strength enhancing coating 5060 may include, for example, but is not limited to, organic-inorganic hybrid coatings, silica solutions, and the like. In an embodiment, strength enhancing coating 5060 can be distinguished from shatter coating 4060 in terms of physical properties. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5110 may be applied to a first surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5110, and the strength enhancing coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5110 may be applied to a side surface and a second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5110. For example, strength enhancing coating 5060 included in protective layer 5110 may prevent and/or reduce damage to second window 4050 from defects in the side surface of second window 4050 included in protective layer 5110. In an embodiment, where display 100 includes protective layer 5110, second adhesive 4040 may be interposed between first window 4030 and a portion of strength enhancing coating 5060 applied to a second surface of second window 4050 included in protective layer 5110.

For another example, referring to fig. 5b, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced with a protective layer 5120. In an embodiment, second window 4050 included in protective layer 5120 may be between shatter resistant coating 4060 and strength enhancement coating 5060. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5120 may be applied to a first surface and a side surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5120, and the strength enhancing coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5120 may be applied to a second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5120. In an embodiment, where display 100 includes protective layer 5120, second adhesive 4040 may be interposed between first window 4030 and strength enhancing coating 5060 applied to a second surface of second window 4050 included in protective layer 5120.

For another example, referring to fig. 5b, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced by a protective layer 5130. In an embodiment, second window 4050 included in protective layer 5130 may be between shatter resistant coating 4060 and strength enhancement coating 5060. In an embodiment, the coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5130 may be applied to a portion of the first surface and the side surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5130, and the strength enhancing coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5130 may be applied to a portion of the second surface and the side surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5130. In an embodiment, where display 100 includes protective layer 5130, second adhesive 4040 may be interposed between first window 4030 and strength enhancing coating 5060 applied to a second surface of second window 4050 included in protective layer 5130.

For another example, referring to fig. 5b, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced with a protective layer 5140. In an embodiment, the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5140 may be between the shatter resistant coating 4060 and the strength enhancement coating 5060. In an embodiment, the coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5140 may be applied to the second surface and the side surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5140, and the strength enhancing coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5140 may be applied to the first surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5140. In an embodiment, where the display 100 includes the protective layer 5140, the second adhesive 4040 may be interposed between the first window 4030 and a portion of the shatter-resistant coating 4060 applied to the second window 4050 on the second surface included in the protective layer 5140.

For another example, referring to fig. 5b, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced with a protective layer 5150. In an embodiment, second window 4050 included in protective layer 5150 may be between shatter resistant coating 4060 and strength enhancement coating 5060. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5150 may be applied on the second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5150, and the strength enhancing coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5150 may be applied on the first surface and the side surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5150. In an embodiment, where the display 100 includes the protective layer 5150, the second adhesive 4040 may be interposed between the first window 4030 and a portion of the shatter-resistant coating 4060 applied to the second window 4050 on a second surface included in the protective layer 5150.

For another example, referring to fig. 5b, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced with a protective layer 5160. In an embodiment, second window 4050 included in protective layer 5160 may be between shatter resistant coating 4060 and strength enhancement coating 5060. In an embodiment, the coating 4060 included in the protective layer 5160 may be applied to a portion of the second surface and the side surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5160, and the strength enhancing coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5160 may be applied to a portion of the first surface and the side surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5160. In an embodiment, where the display 100 includes the protective layer 5160, the second adhesive 4040 may be interposed between the first window 4030 and a portion of the shatter-resistant coating 4060 applied on the second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5160.

For another example, referring to fig. 5c, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced with a protective layer 5210. In an embodiment, the strength enhancement coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5210 may be applied to at least a portion of the second surface and side surfaces of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5210. In an embodiment, in the case where the display 100 includes the protective layer 5210, the second adhesive 4040 included in the protective layer 5210 may be interposed between the first window 4030 and a portion of the strength enhancing coating 5060 applied to the second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5210.

For another example, referring to fig. 5c, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced by a protective layer 5220. In an embodiment, the strength enhancement coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5220 may be applied to at least a portion of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5220 on the first surface and the side surface. In an embodiment, in the case where the display 100 includes the protective layer 5220, the second adhesive 4040 included in the protective layer 5220 may be interposed between the first window 4030 and the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5220.

For another example, referring to fig. 5c, the protective layer 4070 may be replaced by a protective layer 5230. In an embodiment, the strength enhancement coating 5060 included in the protective layer 5230 can surround the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5230. For example, 5060 included in the protective layer 5230 may be applied to all of the first surface, the side surface, and the second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5230. In an embodiment, where the display 100 includes the protective layer 5230, the second adhesive 4040 included in the protective layer 5230 may be interposed between the first window 4030 and a portion of the strength enhancing coating 5060 applied to the second surface of the second window 4050 included in the protective layer 5230.

In an embodiment, the strength enhancing coating 5060 included in the protective layers shown in fig. 5b and 5c may be replaced by, for example and without limitation: a shatter resistant coating 4060, an anti-fingerprint coating (e.g., 6015 of fig. 6 b), an anti-glare coating (e.g., 6025 of fig. 6 b), an anti-reflective coating (e.g., 6035 of fig. 6 b), a low refractive coating (e.g., 6045 of fig. 6 b), and/or combinations thereof.

Fig. 6a is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the display 100 of the electronic device according to the embodiment.

Fig. 6b is a diagram illustrating an example of an outer layer according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 6a, the display 100 may include at least one of a display panel 4010, a first adhesive 4020, a first window 4030, a second adhesive 4040, a second window 4050, a shatter-proof coating 4060, and/or a hard coating 6010.

In an embodiment, the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 shown in fig. 6a may correspond to the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 shown in fig. 4a, respectively.

In an embodiment, the protective layer 4070 of fig. 6a may be replaced by any of the protective layers shown in fig. 4b, 5a, 5b, and 5 c.

In an embodiment, the hard coating 6010 may be disposed on the shatter prevention coating 4060. In an embodiment, a hard coating 6010 may be disposed on the shatter prevention coating 4060 to enhance the hardness of the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside.

In an embodiment, the hard coating layer 6010 may include, for example, but not limited to, an organic coating material using melamine, acrylic, and/or urethane, an inorganic coating material using a silicon-based material, and a hybrid coating material combining an organic-based material and an inorganic material. In an embodiment, the hard coating 6010 may be replaced with an outer layer having at least one coating.

For example, referring to fig. 6b, the hard coating 6010 may be replaced by an outer layer 6020. In an embodiment, outer layer 6020 may include a hard coating 6010 applied to protective layer 4070 and an anti-fingerprint coating 6015 applied to hard coating 6010. For example, the fingerprint-resistant coating 6015 prevents and/or reduces fingerprints of a finger touching on the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside from remaining on the surface of the display 100 seen from the outside, so that visibility can be improved.

For another example, referring to fig. 6b, hard coating 6010 may be replaced with outer layer 6030. In an embodiment, outer layer 6030 may include a hard coating 6010 applied to protective layer 4070 and an antiglare coating 6025 applied to hard coating 6010. For example, the antiglare coating 6025 increases haze (haze) such that glare may be prevented and/or reduced and visibility of the deformed portion of the display 100 improved.

For another example, referring to fig. 6b, hard coating 6010 may be replaced with outer layer 6040. In an embodiment, outer layer 6040 may include a hard coating 6010 applied to protective layer 4070 and an anti-reflective coating 6035 applied to hard coating 6010. For example, an anti-reflective coating 6035 may be applied to the hard coating 6010 to prevent and/or reduce reflection of externally projected light by the display 100. For example, the antireflection coating 6035 causes destructive interference between light projected from the outside and reflected light of the light. For example, anti-reflective coating 6035 may improve the visibility of display 100 to the exterior as well as the visibility of deformed portions of display 100 due to destructive interference.

For another example, referring to fig. 6b, hard coating 6010 may be replaced with outer layer 6050. In an embodiment, outer layer 6050 may include a hard coating 6010 applied to protective layer 4070 and a low refractive coating 6045 applied to hard coating 6010. For example, the low-refractive coating 6045 may be applied to the hard coating 6010 to cause the display 100 to control refraction of light projected from the outside. For example, the low-refractive coating 6045 may improve the visibility of the display 100 to the outside as well as the visibility of deformed portions of the display 100 due to the control of the refraction of light.

Fig. 6b shows an example in which an anti-fingerprint coating 6015, an antiglare coating 6025, an antireflection coating 6035, or a low-refractive coating 6045 is provided on the hard coating 6010, but there may be various design variations not shown in fig. 6 b. For example, the hard coating 6010, the anti-fingerprint coating 6015, the anti-glare coating 6025, the anti-reflection coating 6035, the low refractive coating 6045, or a combination thereof may be applied to the shatter prevention coating 4060.

Fig. 7a is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the display 100 of the electronic device according to the embodiment.

Referring to fig. 7a, the display 100 of the electronic device 10 (e.g., the electronic device 1001) according to an embodiment may include at least one of a display panel 4010, a first adhesive 4020, a first window 4030, a second adhesive 4040, a second window 4050, and/or a shatter prevention coating 4060.

In an embodiment, the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 shown in fig. 7a may correspond to the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 shown in fig. 4a, respectively.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may include multiple layers. For example, the first window 4030 can include at least one layer that includes UTG or a polymeric material (e.g., PET and/or PI). For example, the first window 4030 can also include a coating on a first surface of the first window 4030 or on at least a portion of a second surface opposite the first surface. For another example, where the first window 4030 includes multiple layers, at least one coating may further be included between the multiple layers of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 can include a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first and second surfaces.

In an embodiment, unlike the display 100 shown in fig. 4a, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 shown in fig. 7a may be applied to or formed on a first surface of the first window 4030. In an embodiment, a shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied or formed on at least a portion of a side surface of the first window 4030. For example, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to a portion of the side surface of the first window 4030 and the entire first surface of the first window 4030. For another example, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to the entire side surface of the first window 4030, as well as the entire first surface of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 and the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be referred to as an intermediate layer or layer 7070 in view of the first window 4030 and the shatter-resistant coating 4060 being disposed between the display panel 4010 and the second window 4050.

In embodiments, the intermediate layer 7070 may be replaced by various structures. For example, the intermediate layer 7070 may be replaced by the following intermediate layers: the second window 4050 of the protective layer 4170 shown in figure 4b is replaced in this intermediate layer by the first window 4030; in which the second window 4050 of the protective layer 4270 shown in fig. 4b is replaced by a first window 4030, which first window 4030 has the shape of a side surface of the second window 4050 of the protective layer 4270 shown in fig. 4 b; in which the second window 4050 of the protective layer 4370 shown in fig. 4b is replaced by a first window 4030 having the shape of a side surface of the second window 4050 of the protective layer 4370 shown in fig. 4 b; the second window 4050 of each of the protective layers 5010 to 5020 shown in fig. 5a in this intermediate layer is replaced by the first window 4030; the second window 4050 of each of the protective layers 5110 to 5160 shown in fig. 5b in this intermediate layer is replaced by the first window 4030; the second window 4050 of each of the protective layers 5210 to 5230 shown in fig. 5c in this intermediate layer is replaced by the first window 4030.

Fig. 7b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the display 100 of the electronic device according to the embodiment.

Referring to fig. 7b, the display 100 may include at least one of a display panel 4010, a first adhesive 4020, a first window 4030, a second adhesive 4040, a second window 4050, a shatter-resistant coating 4060, and/or a hard coating 7100.

In an embodiment, the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, the shatter prevention coating 4060, and the hard coating 7100 shown in fig. 7b may correspond to the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, the shatter prevention coating 4060, and the hard coating 6010 shown in fig. 6a, respectively.

In an embodiment, the hard coating 7100 can be replaced by an outer layer having at least one coating. For example, the hard coating 7100 may be replaced by one of the outer layers shown in fig. 6 b.

As described above, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 10) according to example embodiments may include a deformable display panel (e.g., display panel 4010), a first window (e.g., first window 4030) disposed on the deformable display panel, a first adhesive (e.g., first adhesive 4020) interposed between the deformable display panel and the first window, a second window (e.g., second window 4050) disposed on the first window and including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first surface and the second surface, a second adhesive (e.g., second adhesive 4040) disposed between the first window and the second window, and a Shatter Prevention Coating (SPC) (e.g., shatter prevention coating 4060) disposed on at least a portion of the side surface and the first surface.

In an example embodiment, the chipping prevention coating layer may be provided on the entire side surface and the entire first surface.

In an example embodiment, the chipping prevention coating layer may be provided on a portion of the side surface and the entire first surface.

In an example embodiment, the shape of the side surface may be a shape having a curvature.

In an example embodiment, the shape of the side surface may be a chamfered shape.

In an example embodiment, a shatter-resistant coating may be disposed around the first surface, the second surface, and the side surface, and a second adhesive may be disposed between the first window and a portion of the shatter-resistant coating around the second surface.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device may further include a strength enhancement coating (e.g., strength enhancement coating 5060) disposed on the side surface and a portion of the second surface, and a shatter-resistant coating may be disposed on the side surface and a remaining portion of the first surface.

In an example embodiment, a second adhesive may be disposed between the first window and a portion of the strength enhancing coating disposed on the second surface.

In example embodiments, the first window may include Polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyurethane (PU), or cellulose Triacetate (TAC), and the second window may include UTG.

In example embodiments, the adhesion force of the first adhesive may be higher than the adhesion force of the second adhesive.

In an example embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating may be disposed directly on at least a portion of the side surface and the first surface without using an adhesive.

In example embodiments, the deformable display panel may be deformed based on folding of the electronic device, and the shatter prevention coating may be disposed on a portion of the first surface and the side surface that is substantially perpendicular to the folding axis.

As described above, an electronic apparatus according to an example embodiment may include: a deformable display panel; a first window disposed on the deformable display panel and including a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first surface and the second surface; a first adhesive disposed between the deformable display panel and the first window; a chipping protective coating (SPC) disposed on at least a portion of the first surface and the side surface; a second window disposed on the first window; a second adhesive disposed between the first window and the second window.

In an example embodiment, a second adhesive may be disposed between the second window and a portion of the shatter-resistant coating disposed on the first surface.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device may further include a hard coating layer disposed on the second window. In example embodiments, the electronic device may further include an anti-fingerprint (AF) coating disposed on the hard coating layer, an anti-glare (AG) coating disposed on the hard coating layer, an anti-reflection (AR) coating disposed on the hard coating layer, or a low-refractive (LR) coating disposed on the hard coating layer.

In example embodiments, the shatter prevention coating layer may include a material including polysiloxane, an acrylate compound, and a photopolymerization initiator.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device may further include a strength enhancement coating disposed on the side surface and a portion of the second surface, and a shatter prevention coating may be disposed on the side surface and a remaining portion of the first surface. In an example embodiment, a first adhesive may be disposed between the first window and a portion of the strength enhancing coating disposed on the second surface.

In example embodiments, the first window may include ultra-thin glass (UTG) and the second window may include Polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

In an example embodiment, the chipping prevention coating layer may be directly disposed on at least a portion of the side surface and the first surface without using an adhesive.

In example embodiments, the deformable display panel may be deformed based on folding of the electronic device, and the shatter prevention coating may be disposed on the first surface and a portion of the side surface that is substantially perpendicular to the folding axis.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary first window 4030 of the display 100 according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 8, the first window 4030 may include a first area 101, a second area 102, and a fold area 103. The description with reference to fig. 3a, 3b and 3c may equally apply to the description of the first region 101, the second region 102 and the fold region 103.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may include a groove (or recess) 810. A recess 810 may be formed in at least a portion of the fold region 103 of the first window 4030. For example, the groove 810 may be formed in a portion of the fold region 103 of the first window 4030. For another example, the groove 810 may be formed in an entire portion of the fold region 103 of the first window 4030. For another example, the groove 810 may be formed in the entire portion of the folding region 103, a portion of the first region 101, and a portion of the second region 102 of the first window 4030. The groove 810 may be formed above the folding region 103, or may be formed only in the folding region 103. For example, when the groove 810 is formed only in the folding region 103, a width of the folding region 103 corresponding to the length direction L may have a first length, and a second length of the groove 810 may be less than or equal to the first length. For other examples, when the groove 810 is formed over the fold region 103, the fold region 103 may have a first length, and the groove 810 may have a third length that is greater than the first length. The third length may be about twice the first length, but is not limited thereto. According to an embodiment, stress that may be concentrated in the folding region 103 according to folding of the electronic device 10 may be distributed by forming the concave portion 810. As the width of the groove 810 increases, the effect of dispersing stress may increase. When the groove 810 is formed, the user may see the fold region 103 of the first window 4030 or the boundary of the fold region 103, since the fold region 103 may have a different thickness than the first region 101 and the second region 102. In an embodiment, the groove 810 may extend inward from an outer edge thereof by a designated inclination range, and may have a designated depth. In an embodiment, as the width of the groove 810 increases, a portion of the groove 810 extending to a designated depth may extend more gradually (or gradually). In an embodiment, the extent to which the fold region 103 of the first window 4030 is visible may decrease or be invisible as the portion of the recess 810 that extends to a specified depth extends gradually. The groove 810 may extend in the width direction w of the first window 4030 in the folded region 103.

In an embodiment, a portion in the first window 4030 where the recess 810 is formed may be thinner than another portion in the first window 4030 where the recess 810 is not formed.

In an embodiment, the fold region 103 of the first window 4030 may be bent or rolled in accordance with a folding operation of the electronic device 10. For example, depending on the folding operation of the electronic device 10, the first window 4030 may be deformed based on the folding axis X of the folding region 103. The folding region 103 of the first window 4030 is formed thinner than other portions, so that the first window 4030 can ensure flexibility required depending on the folding operation of the electronic device 10.

In an embodiment, in the case where the first window 4030 includes a synthetic resin film, the first window 4030 including the groove 810 may be manufactured, for example, but not limited to, by punching the groove 810 when manufacturing the synthetic resin film, for example, using a process such as rolling, film extrusion, punching, cell casting (cell casting), or the like.

In an embodiment, where the first window 4030 includes UTG, the first window 4030 including the recess 810 may be fabricated, for example, but not limited to, by rolling flat tempered glass with a roller having protrusions or using processes such as etching, polishing, lathing, laser machining, and the like.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may be fabricated, for example, but not limited to, by a unit casting process that molds a flat plate-shaped tempered glass and forms the groove 810.

In the embodiment, the shape of the groove 810, the position where the groove 810 is formed in the folding region 103, and the like are not limited to the illustrated examples. For example, the groove 810 may be formed not in the second surface 4030b of the first window 4030 but in the first surface 4030a of the first window 4030, or in both the first surface 4030a and the second surface 4030 b. For another example, the groove 810 may be formed to have a step as shown, or to have a curved surface other than the step shown. In this case, the curved surface may be formed such that the thickness of the first window 4030 increases from the center to the end of the first window 4030 in the length direction L of the first window 4030. Other examples of trenches 810 will be described with reference to fig. 10.

Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the display 100 according to the embodiment.

Referring to fig. 9, a display 100 of an electronic device 10 (e.g., electronic device 1001) according to an embodiment may include at least two of a display panel 4010, a first adhesive 4020, a first window 4030, a second adhesive 4040, a second window 4050, and/or a shatter prevention coating 4060.

The display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 shown in fig. 9 may correspond to the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 shown in fig. 7a, respectively.

In an embodiment, unlike the first window 4030 shown in fig. 7a, the first window 4030 may include a recess 810.

In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied or disposed on the surface of the recess 810 in which the first window 4030 is formed. For example, the shatter resistant coating 4060 may be applied to the second surface 4030b of the first window 4030 in which the recess 810 is formed.

In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may have optical properties that are the same as or similar to the optical properties of the first window 4030. In an embodiment, since the first window 4030 includes the groove 810 (a portion of the groove 810 has a different thickness), a deviation in the quality of an image penetrating the first window 4030 may occur on the screen of the display 100. For example, there may be a difference between the luminance of a portion where the groove 810 is formed and the luminance of another portion. In an embodiment, the shatter prevention coating 4060 may comprise a material having optical characteristics substantially the same as or similar to the optical characteristics of the first window 4030, and since the difference in thickness of the first window 4030 may be reduced, a deviation in image quality may occur.

In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to or formed on at least a portion of a side surface 4030c of the first window 4030. In an embodiment, the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 may include at least one defect, and an area including the at least one defect may be more susceptible to cracking or damage than another area due to external impact. In an embodiment, the chipping prevention coating 4060 is applied to at least a portion of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 that is susceptible to external impact, so that the impact resistance of the first window 4030 can be improved. In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 applied to the first window 4030 may prevent and/or reduce fragmented fine pieces that may occur in the event that the first window 4030 is damaged.

In an embodiment, a resin layer (e.g., PET) for absorbing external impact applied to the display panel 4010 may be interposed between the first adhesive 4020 and the display panel 4010. The resin layer may be formed substantially transparently. The display 100 according to the embodiment may further include an adhesive layer for adhering the resin layer to the display panel 4010 with the resin layer interposed.

Although not shown, the display 100 according to an embodiment may include a hard coating layer (e.g., the hard coating layer 6010 of fig. 6 a) disposed over the first window 4030. In an embodiment, the hard coating may be replaced by an outer layer comprising at least one coating layer. For example, the hard coating may be replaced by one of the outer layers shown in fig. 6 b. For another example, the hard coating may be replaced by a plurality of layers comprising at least two of: a hard coating (e.g., 6010 of fig. 6 a), an anti-fingerprint coating (e.g., 6015 of fig. 6 b), an anti-glare coating (e.g., 6025 of fig. 6 b), an anti-reflection coating (e.g., 6035 of fig. 6 b), and a low refractive coating (e.g., 6045 of fig. 6 b).

In another embodiment, the shape of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 is not limited to the example shown in fig. 9. For example, the shape of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 may have a curvature similar to the shape of the side surface of the second window 4150 shown in fig. 4 b. For another example, the shape of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 may be similar to the chamfered shape of the second window 4250 shown in fig. 4 b. For yet another example, the shape of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 may be a shape that includes rounded corners similar to the shape of the side surface of the second window 4350 shown in fig. 4 b.

In another embodiment, the recess 810 may be formed in the second window 4050 instead of the first window 4030. In this case, the shatter prevention coating 4060 may be applied to the surface of the groove 810 forming the second window 4050, or at least a portion of the side surface of the second window 4050 instead of at least a portion of the side surface of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 can be disposed such that at least a portion of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 is located on the periphery of at least one of the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the second adhesive 4040, the shatter prevention coating 4060, and/or the second window 4050. At least one of the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the second adhesive 4040, the shatter prevention coating 4060, and/or the second window 4050 may protrude to the outside of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030. The first window 4030 is provided inside other elements of the display 100, so that an impact that may be applied to the first window 4030 can be reduced.

Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the first window 4030 and the shatter prevention coating 4060 according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 10, the groove 810 of the first window 4030 may be formed at various positions. For example, the recess 810 may be formed in the first surface 4030a and/or the second surface 4030b of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the recess 810 of the first window 4030 may include at least one step and/or curved surface.

In an embodiment, the recess 810 of the first window 4030 may include at least one step and/or at least one curved surface. When the groove 810 includes a plurality of curved surfaces, the ranges of curvature of the plurality of curved surfaces may be different from each other. For example, the recess 810 may include a first flat surface formed at the center thereof, a first curved surface extending outward from the first flat surface of the recess 810, and a second curved surface extending from the first curved surface to the outer edge of the recess 810. The degree of curvature of the first curved surface may be greater than the degree of curvature of the second curved surface, but is not limited thereto. Conversely, the second curved portion may have a greater degree of curvature than the first curved surface. The direction in which the first curved surface is curved may be different from the direction in which the second curved surface is curved, but is not limited thereto. For other examples, the recess 810 may include a first flat surface formed at the center thereof, a first curved surface extending outward from the first flat surface of the recess 810, a second flat surface extending outward from the first curved surface of the recess 810, and a second curved surface extending from the second flat surface to the outer edge of the recess 810. The second planar surface may have a different inclination than the first planar surface. The degree of curvature of the second curved surface may be different from the degree of curvature of the first curved surface. The first planar surface may correspond to a fold axis of the first window 4030. When the groove 810 is formed above the folding region 103, the second flat surface may correspond to or overlap with an edge of the folding region 103, but is not limited thereto. For example, an edge of the fold region 103 may correspond to or overlap the first plane.

In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to a surface of the first window 4030 (e.g., the first surface 4030a and/or the second surface 4030b) in which the recess 810 is formed.

In an embodiment, a shatter resistant coating 4060 may be applied to at least a portion of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030.

The shape of the groove 810 of the first window 4030 is not limited to the illustrated example, and various shapes or structures in which a portion of the first window 4030 in which the groove 810 is formed to be thinner than other portions may be applied. For example, the shape of the groove 810 may include a square, a rectangle, an ellipse, or a trapezoid, but is not limited thereto. For another example, the shape of the groove 810 may include a rectangle with rounded corners and a trapezoid with rounded corners.

The description of fig. 10 is made based on the first window 4030. However, since the groove 810 may be formed in the second window 4050 instead of the first window 4030, the description may be equally or correspondingly applied to the second window 4050. For example, the groove 810 may be formed in the first surface and/or the second surface of the second window 4050, and the groove 810 formed in the first surface and/or the second surface may include a curved surface and/or a step. The shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to the surface (e.g., the first surface and/or the second surface) of the second window 4050 where the groove 810 is formed, instead of the first window 4030.

Figure 11a is a diagram illustrating an exemplary first window 4030 and a shatter protection coating 4060, according to an embodiment.

Figure 11b is a diagram illustrating an exemplary first window 4030 and a shatter protection coating 4060, according to an embodiment.

Figure 11c is a diagram illustrating an example first window 4030 and a shatter protection coating 4060, according to an embodiment.

In an embodiment, a shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to at least a side surface of the fold region 103 within the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030. The side surface application area 1101 indicates an area where the chipping prevention coating 4060 is applied within the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030.

For example, referring to fig. 11a, a shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to the side surface corresponding to the fold region 103 within the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030.

For another example, referring to fig. 11b, a shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to side surfaces corresponding to the fold region 103 within the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 and side surfaces extending from the side surfaces in the length direction L. In an embodiment, the side surface extending in the length direction L may be a side surface substantially perpendicular to a folding axis (e.g., folding axis X of fig. 8) of the first window 4030 within the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030.

For another example, referring to fig. 11c, a shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to the entire side surface 4030c of the first window 4030.

The description of fig. 11a, 11b, and 11c is made based on the first window 4030. However, since the groove 810 may be formed in the second window 4050 instead of the first window 4030, the description may be equally or correspondingly applied to the second window 4050 in which the groove 810 is formed. For example, the groove 810 may be formed in the second window 4050 instead of the first window 4030, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 may be applied to at least a portion of the surface of the second window 4050 in which the groove 810 is formed and the side surface of the second window 4050. For example, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may surround a side surface area corresponding to the fold area to correspond with the illustration within the side surface of the second window 4050 of figure 11 a. As another example, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may surround the entire side surface of the second window 4050 to correspond to the illustration of fig. 11 c.

The description of fig. 11a, 11b and 11c is made based on a first window 4030 in which a recess 810 is formed. However, as shown in fig. 7a, the description may equally or correspondingly apply to the first window 4030 not including the recess 810. For example, the shatter resistant coating 4060 of figure 7a may be applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the first window 4030.

The description of figures 11a, 11b and 11c is made based on the shatter-resistant coating 4060 applied to the first window 4030. However, as shown in figure 4a, the description may apply equally or correspondingly to the case where the shatter protection coating 4060 is applied to the second window 4050. For example, a shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the second window 4050 to correspond to fig. 11a, 11b, and 11 c.

Fig. 12a and 12b are cross-sectional views illustrating an example of the display 100 according to the embodiment.

Fig. 12b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary display 100 according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 12a, the display 100 of the electronic device 10 (e.g., the electronic device 1001) according to an embodiment may include at least one of a display panel 4010, a first adhesive 4020, a first window 4030, a second adhesive 4040, and/or a second window 4050.

The display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, and the second window 4050 shown in fig. 12a and 12b may correspond to the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, and the second window 4050 shown in fig. 7a, respectively.

In an embodiment, the first adhesive 4020 may be formed on the second surface 4030b of the first window 4030. In an embodiment, the first adhesive 4020 may surround the second surface 4030b of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the first adhesive 4020 may be formed on at least a portion of a side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 and around at least a portion of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030. For example, as in fig. 11a, a first adhesive 4020 may be disposed on a side surface corresponding to the fold region 103 within a side surface 4030c of the first window 4030. For example, as in fig. 11b, the first adhesive 4020 may surround a region corresponding to the folding region 103 in the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 and a region extending in the length direction L from the region. In an embodiment, the area extending along the length direction L may be a side surface area within a side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 that is substantially perpendicular to a folding axis (e.g., folding axis X of fig. 8) of the first window 4030. For another example, as shown in fig. 11c, the first adhesive 4020 may surround the entire side surface 4030c of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, a resin layer (e.g., PET) for absorbing external impact applied to the display panel 4010 may be interposed between the first adhesive 4020 and the display panel 4010. In this case, the display 100 according to the embodiment may further include an adhesive layer for adhering the resin layer to the display panel 4010.

Referring to fig. 12b, the first adhesive 4020 surrounding at least a portion of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 may be replaced with a second adhesive 4040. In this case, the second adhesive 4040 surrounds the side surface 4030c of the first window in a manner corresponding to the first adhesive 4010 described with reference to fig. 12a, but may be provided on the first surface 4030a of the first window 4030 instead of the second surface 4030 b.

Fig. 13a is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the display 100 according to the embodiment.

Fig. 13b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the display 100 according to the embodiment.

Referring to fig. 13a, the display 100 of the electronic device 10 (e.g., the electronic device 1001) according to an embodiment may include at least one of a display panel 4010, a first adhesive 4020, a first window 4030, a second adhesive 4040, a second window 4050, and/or a shatter prevention coating 4060.

The display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 shown in fig. 13a and 13b may correspond to the display panel 4010, the first adhesive 4020, the first window 4030, the second adhesive 4040, the second window 4050, and the shatter prevention coating 4060 shown in fig. 8 and 9, respectively.

Referring to fig. 13a, unlike the illustration of fig. 9, a shatter prevention coating 4060 may be provided in the space formed by the groove 810 of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the anti-chipping coating 4060 having the same or similar optical characteristics as those of the first window 4030 is filled in a portion having a different thickness due to the groove 810 of the first window 4030, so that it is possible to compensate for a deviation in image quality of the screen penetrating the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the first adhesive 4020 may be disposed on a surface (e.g., the second surface 4030b) of the first window 4030 in which the recess 810 is formed. In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 fills the space formed by the recess 810 of the first window 4030. Thus, the second surface 4030b of the first window 4030 can be uniformly formed, and the first adhesive 4020 can maintain a reliable adhesion state to the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the description given with reference to fig. 12a and 12b may be equally applied to the description of the first adhesive 4020. For example, the first adhesive 4020 may surround at least a portion of the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030.

Although not shown, in an embodiment, a resin layer (e.g., PET) for absorbing an external impact applied to the display panel 4010 may be interposed between the first adhesive 4020 and the display panel 4010. In this case, the display 100 according to the embodiment may further include an adhesive layer for adhering the resin layer to the display panel 4010.

Referring to fig. 13b, a recess 810 of the first window 4030 may be formed in the first surface 4030 a. In this case, the first adhesive 4020 surrounding the side surface 4030c of the first window 4030 may be replaced with a second adhesive 4040.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary electronic device 10 taken along line B-B' of FIG. 3 a.

Fig. 14 shows a cross-section of the first housing structure 510 of fig. 3a, and the description of fig. 14 can be applied equally or correspondingly to the second housing structure 520.

Referring to fig. 14, an electronic device 10 according to an embodiment may include a side surface bezel structure 1410, a support 1420, and a display 100.

In an embodiment, the side surface bezel structure 1410 and the support 1420 may correspond to the first housing structure 510 and the first rear cover 580 shown in fig. 3 a. In an embodiment, the side surface bezel structure 1410 and the support 1420 may form a space in which the display 100 is placed. In embodiments, the side surface bezel structure 1410 and the support 1420 may be formed as separate structures as shown, or may be integrally formed.

In an embodiment, the display 100 may include a display panel 4010, a first window 4030, and a second window 4050, and may be provided in such a manner that: at least a portion of which is received in the space provided by the side surface bezel structure 1410 and the support 1420.

In an embodiment, the display panel 4010, the first window 4030 and the second window 4050 may correspond to the display panel 4010, the first window 4030 and the second window 4050 described in fig. 4a to 13b, respectively. For convenience of description, in the display 100 shown in fig. 14, only the display panel 4010, the first window 4030, and the second window 4050 are shown, and the description of the display 100 given with reference to fig. 1 to 13 may be equally or correspondingly applied. For example, the display 100 shown in fig. 14 may include a first adhesive 4020, a second adhesive 4040, and a shatter-resistant coating 4060 in a manner corresponding to the display 100 of fig. 4 a. For another example, the display 100 shown in fig. 14 may include a hard coating layer 6010 for protecting the display 100 in a manner corresponding to the display 100 of fig. 6 a. For another example, the display 100 shown in fig. 14 can include a first adhesive 4020, a shatter-resistant coating 4060, and a second adhesive 4040 in a manner corresponding to the display 100 of fig. 9, and the recess 810 can be formed in the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may be spaced apart from the side surface bezel structure 1410, and a gap 1440 may be formed between the first window 4030 and the side surface bezel structure 1410. The gap 1440 may provide a space in which at least one layer included in the display 100 may move according to a folding operation of the electronic device 10.

In an embodiment, the first window 4030 may be provided on the display panel 4010. The first window 4030 can be provided so that at least a portion of the periphery of the first window 4030 is located outside the display panel 4010. For example, at least one periphery of the first window 4030 may be closer to the side surface bezel structure 1410 than the display panel 4010.

In an embodiment, the second window 4050 may be disposed on the first window 4030. The second window 4050 can be disposed such that at least a portion of the periphery of the second window 4050 is offset from the periphery of the first window 4030. For example, the second window 4050 can be positioned such that at least a portion of the periphery of the second window 4050 is located inside the periphery of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, when the electronic device 10 is viewed from above (e.g., in the (r) direction), the second window 4050 may partially overlap the side surface bezel structure 1410. In the case where the second window 4050 overlaps the side surface bezel structure 1410, the second window 4050 may be spaced apart from the side surface bezel structure 1410 in the (r) direction, and a gap 1450 may be formed between the second window 4050 and the side surface bezel structure 1410.

In another embodiment, unlike the illustration of fig. 14, second window 4050 may not overlap side surface bezel structure 1410 when electronic device 10 is viewed from above (e.g., in the direction of (r)).

Fig. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first window 4030 provided with a shatter prevention coating 4060 according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 15, a first window 4030 according to an embodiment may include a groove 810 formed on one surface thereof. The groove 810 may correspond to the folding region 103. In an embodiment, the groove 810 may be formed on a portion of the first region 101 and a portion of the second region 102 and the fold region 103 of the first window 4030. In another embodiment not shown, the recess 810 may be formed only in the fold region 103 of the first window 4030.

In an embodiment, the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may include a first portion 4060-1 and a second portion 4060-2. In an embodiment, the first portion 4060-1 of the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be disposed on a surface of the first window 4030 in a manner that fills the recess 810. A second portion 4060-2 of the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be disposed on at least a side surface of the first window 4030. For example, as shown, the second portion 4060-2 of the shatter-resistant coating 4060 may be disposed adjacent to the side surface of the first window 4030 and the first portion 4060-1 of the shatter-resistant coating 4060. For another example, the second portion 4060-2 of the shatter prevention coating 4060 can be disposed in contact with only a side surface of the first window 4030. In an embodiment, the first portion 4060-1 can comprise a different material than the second portion 4060-2. For example, the first portion 4060-1 may include at least one of polysiloxane, acrylate compound, and/or photopolymerization initiator, and the second portion 4060-2 may include a resin material, but is not limited thereto.

In an embodiment, the adhesion (or amount of adhesion) of the first portion 4060-1 and the second portion 4060-2 can be different from each other. For example, the second portion 4060-2 may have a weaker adhesion than the first portion 4060-1. In another embodiment, the adhesion of the first portion 4060-1 and the second portion 4060-2 can be substantially the same as one another.

In an embodiment, at least a first portion 4060-1 of the first portion 4060-1 and/or the second portion 4060-2 has substantially the same optical properties (e.g., refractive index) as the first window 4030. Due to the thickness variation of the first window 4030 occurring when the groove 810 is formed, variation in the image quality of a screen displayed through the first window 4030 may occur. In an embodiment, the shatter resistant coating 4060 including the first portion 4060-1 having substantially the same optical characteristics as the first window 4030 may compensate for variations in image quality according to the thickness of the first window 4030.

According to an embodiment, the shatter resistant coating 4060 may be provided to the first window 4030 by applying the first portion 4060-1 to one surface of the first window 4030 and then applying the second portion 4060-2 to a side surface of the first window 4030.

The description of the first window 4030 described above can be applied to the second window 4050 in the same or a corresponding manner. For example, the groove 810 can be formed on a surface of the second window 4050, and the first portion 4060-1 of the shatter prevention coating 4060 can be disposed on a surface of the second window 4050. The shatter prevention coating 4060 may be provided on a side surface of the second window 4050 in contact with the second window 4050 and the first portion 4060-1.

As described above, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 10 of fig. 3a) according to an example embodiment may include: a deformable display panel (e.g., display panel 4010 of fig. 4 a); a first window (e.g., first window 4030 of FIG. 4 a) disposed on the deformable display panel; a first adhesive (e.g., first adhesive 4020 of fig. 4 a) disposed between the deformable display panel and the first window; a second window (e.g., second window 4050 of fig. 4 a) disposed on the first window and comprising a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first and second surfaces; a second adhesive (e.g., second adhesive 4040 of figure 4 a) disposed between the first window and the second window; and a Shatter Prevention Coating (SPC) (e.g., the shatter prevention coating 4060 of fig. 4 a) disposed on at least a portion of the side surface of the second window and the first surface of the second window.

In an example embodiment, the second window may include a recess (e.g., groove 810 of fig. 8) formed in the first surface, and the shatter-resistant coating may be applied to the first surface while filling the recess.

In an example embodiment, the second window may include a folding region (e.g., the folding region 103 of fig. 8) corresponding to a region where the display panel is deformed, and the recess may be formed along the folding region. The shatter-resistant coating may be applied to at least the region of the side surface corresponding to the fold region.

In an example embodiment, the second window may include ultra-thin glass (UTG), and the first window may include at least one of Polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyurethane (PU), or cellulose Triacetate (TAC).

As described above, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 10 of fig. 3a) according to an embodiment may include: a deformable display panel (e.g., display panel 4010 of fig. 7 a); a first window (e.g., first window 4030 of FIG. 7 a) disposed on the deformable display panel and including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first surface and the second surface; a first adhesive (e.g., first adhesive 4020 of fig. 7 a) disposed between the deformable display panel and the first window; a Shatter Prevention Coating (SPC) (e.g., shatter prevention coating 4060 of fig. 7 a) disposed on a side surface of the first window and at least a portion of the first surface of the first window; a second window disposed on the first window; and a second adhesive (e.g., second adhesive 4040 of fig. 7 a) disposed between the first window and the second window.

In an example embodiment, the first window may include a recess (e.g., groove 810 of fig. 8) formed in the first surface, and the shatter-resistant coating may be applied to the first surface while filling the recess.

In an example embodiment, the first window may include a folding region (e.g., the folding region 103 of fig. 8) corresponding to a region where the display panel is deformed, and the recess may be formed in the folding region. The shatter-resistant coating may be applied to at least the region of the side surface corresponding to the fold region.

An electronic device according to an embodiment may include: a display panel that is at least partially deformable; a first window disposed on the display panel and including a first surface, a second surface facing the first surface, and a side surface extending from an edge of the first surface to an edge of the second surface, and including a recess formed on the first surface; a first adhesive between the display panel and the first window; a second window disposed on the first window; a second adhesive interposed between the first window and the second window, and a shatter resistant coating (SPC) applied to at least a portion of the first surface and the side surface.

In example embodiments, the display panel may include a first region, a second region, and a folding region disposed between the first region and the second region and deformable, and the recess may correspond to the folding region.

In example embodiments, SPC may be applied to at least a portion of a side surface of the first window corresponding to the folding area.

In an example embodiment, the recess may extend along the fold region.

In an example embodiment, a portion of the first window where the recess is formed may be thinner than another portion.

In example embodiments, the SPC may have a refractive index substantially the same as that of the first window in order to compensate for a difference in image quality of the screen passing through the first window according to a difference in thickness of the first window.

In an example embodiment, a portion of the first window in which the recess is disposed may include at least one stepped portion or at least one bent portion.

In an example embodiment, the first adhesive may be interposed between the display panel and a portion of the SPC surrounding the first surface.

In an example embodiment, the second adhesive may be interposed between the second window and a portion of the SPC surrounding the first surface.

In an example embodiment, the electronic device may further include a hard coating applied to the second window.

In example embodiments, the electronic device may further include an anti-fingerprint coating applied on the hard coating layer, an anti-glare coating applied on the hard coating layer, an anti-reflection coating applied on the hard coating layer, or a low refractive coating applied on the hard coating layer.

In example embodiments, the SPC may not include a shatter prevention film, and may be formed by directly applying a shatter prevention coating solution on at least a portion of the side surface and the first surface.

In an example embodiment, the first window may include ultra-thin glass (UTG), and the second window may include at least one of Polyimide (PI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyurethane (PU), or cellulose Triacetate (TAC).

In example embodiments, the display panel may be deformed based on the folding of the electronic device, and the SPC may be disposed on the first surface of the first window and a portion of a side surface of the first window substantially perpendicular to the folding axis.

In example embodiments, the shape of the side surface may be a chamfered shape or a shape having a curvature.

As described above, a portable communication apparatus (e.g., the electronic device 10 of fig. 3a) according to an embodiment may include: a housing (e.g., foldable housing 500 of fig. 3 a); a flexible display (e.g., display 100 of fig. 3a) housed within the housing, wherein the flexible display can include a flexible display panel (e.g., display panel 4010 of fig. 4 a) and a glazing (e.g., first window 4030 or second window 4050) on the flexible display panel, the glazing comprising an upper surface, a lower surface, and side surfaces; and a coating layer, wherein the coating layer may be formed on at least a portion of the side surface and at least one of the upper surface and the lower surface to prevent or reduce breakage of the glass window due to an impact from outside the portable communication apparatus, deformation of the flexible display, or a defect formed at the side surface.

In an example embodiment, the coating may be located on substantially the entire area of the side surface.

In an example embodiment, the flexible display may further include a polymer layer on the coating layer.

In example embodiments, the flexible display may further include a polymer layer under the coating layer.

In example embodiments, the polymer layer may include PI (polyimide), PET (polyethylene), PU (polyurethane), or TAC (cellulose triacetate).

In example embodiments, the flexible display may further include a first adhesive interposed between the display panel and the glass window.

In an example embodiment, the flexible display may further include a second adhesive over the first adhesive.

In an example embodiment, the adhesion force of the second adhesive may be less than the adhesion force of the first adhesive.

In example embodiments, the thickness of the second adhesive may be less than the thickness of the first adhesive.

In an example embodiment, the glazing may comprise UTG (ultra-thin glass).

In example embodiments, a coating layer may be formed on at least a portion of the side surface and the lower surface, and the flexible display may further include an overcoat layer formed over the upper surface.

In example embodiments, a coating layer may be formed on at least a portion of the side surface, the upper surface, and the lower surface, and the flexible display may further include an external coating layer formed over the coating layer.

In an example embodiment, the outer coating may include at least one of an anti-fingerprint coating, an anti-glare coating, an anti-reflective coating, and/or a low-refractive coating.

In example embodiments, the coating may be directly formed on at least a portion of the side surface and at least one of the upper surface or the lower surface.

In example embodiments, the coating may be formed on at least a portion of the side surface and at least one of the upper surface or the lower surface without an adhesive member contacting the coating and at least a portion of the glazing.

In example embodiments, a coating may be formed on at least a portion of the side surface to cover defects of the side surface.

As described above, the flexible display (e.g., the display 100) according to the embodiment may include: a display panel (e.g., display panel 4010); a glass window (e.g., first window 4030 or second window 4050) disposed on the display panel, the glass window including a top surface, a bottom surface, and side surfaces; and a coating layer (e.g., a shatter prevention coating layer 4060), wherein the coating layer may be formed on at least a portion of the side surface and on at least one of the top surface or the bottom surface to reduce breakage of the glass window due to external impact.

The method according to the embodiments described in the claims and/or the specification of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

When the method is implemented by software, a computer-readable storage medium for storing one or more programs (software modules) may be provided. One or more programs stored in the computer readable storage medium may be configured to be executed by one or more processors within the electronic device. The at least one program may include instructions that cause the electronic device to perform methods in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and/or disclosed herein.

The program (software module or software) may be stored in non-volatile memory, including random access memory and flash memory, Read Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), magnetic disk storage devices, compact disk (CD-ROM), Digital Versatile Disks (DVD), or other types of optical storage devices or magnetic tape. Alternatively, any combination of some or all may form a memory for storing a program. Furthermore, a plurality of such memories may be included in the electronic device.

Further, the program may be stored in a connectable storage device, which is accessible via a communication network, such as the Internet, Intranet, Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), and Storage Area Network (SAN), or a combination thereof. Such storage devices may access devices executing embodiments of the present disclosure via an external port. Furthermore, a separate storage device on the communication network may access the portable electronic apparatus.

In the above detailed example embodiments of the present disclosure, components included in the present disclosure are expressed in the singular or plural according to the present example embodiments. However, for ease of description, the singular or plural forms are chosen for ease of description to suit the situation presented, and the various embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to a single element or multiple elements thereof. Further, a plurality of elements expressed in the specification may be configured as a single element, or a single element in the specification may be configured as a plurality of elements.

While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the disclosure including the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising:

a deformable display panel;

a first window disposed on the deformable display panel, the first window including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface disposed between the first surface and the second surface;

a first adhesive disposed between the deformable display panel and the first window;

a Shatter Prevention Coating (SPC) disposed on at least a portion of a side surface of the first window and the first surface of the first window;

a second window disposed on the first window; and

a second adhesive disposed between the first window and the second window.

2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the first window comprises a recess formed in the first surface, and the shatter-resistant coating is applied to the first surface while filling the recess.

3. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein:

the first window includes a folding region corresponding to a region where the deformable display panel is deformed;

the recess is formed in the folded region; and

the shatter-resistant coating is applied at least to the region of the side surface corresponding to the fold region.

4. The electronic device of claim 3, wherein the recess extends along the fold region, and a width of the recess is greater than a width of the fold region.

5. The electronic device of claim 3, wherein the recess comprises:

a first portion that is substantially flat and corresponds to a fold axis of the first window; and

a second portion extending from an edge of the first portion in an outward direction of the recess, an inclination of the second portion being different from an inclination of the first surface, and

wherein an edge of the folded region overlaps a second portion of the recess.

6. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein a portion of the first window in which the recess is formed includes a curved portion.

7. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the SPC does not include a shatter prevention film and is formed by applying a shatter prevention solution to the first window.

8. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the SPC comprises:

a first portion disposed on a first surface of the first window; and

a second portion provided on at least a part of a side surface of the first window, and

wherein the first portion of the SPC comprises a different material than the second portion.

9. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the second adhesive is disposed between a portion of the SPC disposed on the first surface and the second window.

10. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the SPC is directly provided on at least a portion of a side surface of the first window and the first surface of the first window without an adhesive.

11. The electronic device of claim 1, further comprising a hard coating disposed on the second window,

wherein the electronic device further comprises:

an anti-fingerprint (AF) coating layer disposed on the hard coating layer;

an anti-glare (AG) coating layer disposed on the hard coating layer;

an anti-reflective (AR) coating disposed on the hard coating; and

a Low Refractive (LR) coating disposed on the hard coating.

12. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein:

the deformable display panel is configured to deform based on a folding of the electronic device; and is

The SPC is disposed on the first surface of the first window and a portion of the side surface of the first window that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the folding.

13. The electronic device of claim 1, further comprising a strength enhancing coating disposed on a portion of a side surface of the first window and a second surface of the first window,

wherein the SPC is disposed on the remaining portion of the side surface of the first window and the first surface of the first window.

14. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the first adhesive is disposed between the first window and a portion of the strength enhancing coating disposed on the second surface.

15. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein:

the first window comprises ultra-thin glass (UTG); and is

The second window comprises Polyimide (PI) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).