DE112019004827T5 - Flexible display device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure discloses a flexible display device comprising a first body and a second body, a hinge portion connecting the first body and the second body in a relatively rotatable manner, a flexible display unit positioned on one side of the first body and the second body arranged to be folded and unfolded by the relative rotation, a cover member disposed between the first body and the second body to cover a space between the first body and the second body formed by the folding of the flexible display unit and a lever connected to the hinge portion for rotating in conjunction with the folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit to support at least a part of the cover member.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of invention

The present disclosure relates to a flexible display device having a flexible display that is deformable by an external force.

Description of the prior art

A portable electronic device (hereinafter referred to as a mobile terminal), such as e.g. B. a communication terminal, a multimedia device, a portable computer, a gaming device and a photography device, has a display for displaying image information. The mobile terminal may have a foldable structure that can be folded to a smaller size to facilitate transportation. In this type of electronic device, two bodies are connected by a folding structure (e.g., a hinge portion).

Prior art displays have a non-foldable structure, and therefore a structure in which a display is arranged over two whole bodies which are foldably connected to each other cannot be realized. Therefore, a substantially large screen cannot be applied to an electronic device with a foldable structure.

However, since a flexible display that can be bent has been developed in recent years, research has been made to apply a flexible display to a mobile terminal having a folding structure. In this case, a flexible display can be arranged over two whole bodies through a folding structure, thereby realizing a large screen.

However, when the flexible display is deformed into a folded (folded) state and an unfolded (unfolded) state using a hinge portion, in order to implement a function of the hinge portion, there is a problem that a size of the display is enlarged, a problem of deformation of a bent one Section and a problem that a space between two bodies in the folded state is exposed to the outside.

More specifically, in order to compensate for the characteristics of the display, an electronic device with a folding structure requires various considerations of a hinge operating structure (a length compensation scheme, a hidden structure, a locking structure for each element) for controlling a neutral plane of the display or a structure supporting a rear surface of the display and an operational scheme thereof. Because of these considerations, the overall structure of the hinge portion and the device increases in complexity, and thus there is a limitation in implementing the shape of an actually operable terminal.

In the flexible devices developed to date, however, there is no proposed hinge structure capable of solving these various problems. Accordingly, according to the present disclosure, a new mechanism is applied to the hinge portion and its surrounding structure to solve this problem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first object of the present disclosure is to provide a hinge structure capable of reducing the size of a flexible display device.

A second object of the present disclosure is to provide a new mechanism capable of achieving slenderness and covering a space between bodies in a flexible display device.

A third object of the present disclosure is to implement a hybrid function capable of covering a space between bodies at the time of folding and at the same time flattening a flexible display at the time of unfolding in the flexible display device.

In order to achieve the aforementioned objects of the present disclosure, a flexible display device can be configured such that a lever connected to a hinge portion and interlocked with the rotation of the body supports at least a part of a cover member. In addition, a new mechanism and a hybrid function can thereby be implemented.

More specifically, the flexible display device may include a first body and a second body, a hinge portion connecting the first body and the second body in a relatively rotatable manner, a flexible display unit disposed on one side of the first body and the second body, to be folded and unfolded by the relative rotation, a cover member disposed between the first body and the second body to cover a space between the first body and the second body formed by the folding of the flexible display unit, and a lever connected to the hinge portion to be in communication with rotating the folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit to support at least a portion of the cover member.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover element can move between a first state in which it supports the flexible display unit in connection with the folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit, and a second state in which it is spaced apart from the flexible display unit To cover the gap, move.

One side of the cover member can be supported by at least one of the housings of the first body and the second body and the other side thereof can be supported by the lever to move between the first state and the second state.

A protruding portion may protrude from the housing to press a side of the cover member in the first state. The protruding portion may include a first portion protruding from the ends of the first body and the second body and a second portion extending in a direction inclined with respect to the first portion. At least part of the second section can be formed with a curved surface so that it presses one side of the cover element in the first state and covers at least part of the cover element in the second state.

In another example, the hinge portion may have a first rotating shaft connected to the first body and a second rotating shaft connected to the second body, and the lever may be coupled to at least one of the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft.

The hinge portion may further include a hinge case that accommodates the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, and an insertion hole into which at least a part of the cover member is inserted may be formed on one side of the hinge case. The lever can be housed in the hinge housing to support at least part of the cover element. A range of movement of the cover element can be restricted by an upper and a lower end of the insertion hole.

In another example, the cover member may include a cover body disposed between the first body and the second body, and an insertion projection protruding from an end portion of the cover body and inserted into the insertion hole.

The cover body can be supported by at least one of the housings of the first body and the second body, and the insertion protrusion can be supported by the lever. The lever may include a coupling portion coupled to the first rotating shaft or the second rotating shaft, and a support protrusion protruding from the coupling portion to support the insertion protrusion.

In addition, the present disclosure can impart different functions to upper and lower side hinges of a display in order to achieve a slim design of the display device. In a specific example, the hinge portion may comprise a first hinge and a second hinge arranged at both ends of the cover element. In this case, a gear connection for axial toothing can be used for either the first hinge or the second hinge and a stop structure for free stopping can be used for the other hinge.

For example, the rotating shafts of the first hinge can be geared to axially interlock the first body and the second body, and a frictional force can be applied to the rotating shafts of the second hinge to rotate the first body and the second body in any one To fix angle. The first hinge may have an idler gear disposed between the rotating shafts of the first hinge, and the second hinge may have a friction element that generates a frictional force on the rotating shafts of the second hinge.

Furthermore, the present disclosure discloses a flexible display device that has a first body and a second body, a flexible display unit that is submitted to be folded and unfolded by relative rotation between the first body and the second body, a cover member that can is formed so as to cover a space between the first body and the second body, and comprises a first hinge and a second hinge disposed at both ends of the cover member, the rotating shafts of the first hinge being engaged by means of a gear to axially interlock the first body and the second body, and a frictional force is applied to the rotating shafts of the second hinge to fix the first body and the second body at an arbitrary angle, and a lever that at least part of the cover member based, is coupled to the first hinge and the second hinge to the A bdeckelement to move in connection with the folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit.

The effects of the present disclosure achieved by the above solutions are as follows.

First, a hinge portion can transmit a force to a cover member by using only a lever without an additional connecting structure, thereby providing a more compact structure for a display device.

Second, a cover member can apply a physical force to a rear surface of a flexible display at the time of unfolding to always return the flexible display to a flat state, thereby preventing a phenomenon in which the surface is wavy from occurring. Therefore, the reliability of a flexible display device can be improved. In addition, a physical force applied at the time of unfolding can be provided by a case of a display device, thereby making it possible to maintain a compact structure.

Third, upper and lower hinges of a display can be provided with different functions, thereby providing a display device with a compact structure that can be axially interlocked and freely stopped. In addition, a space in which a lever is coupled to a hinge portion can be secured to upper and lower hinges, respectively, to keep the hinge portion compact in size, thereby implementing a display device with a small frame.

Figure list

• 1A ist ein Blockdiagramm zur Erläuterung einer Anzeigevorrichtung im Zusammenhang mit der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 1B ist eine konzeptionelle Ansicht zur Erläuterung einer flexiblen Anzeigevorrichtung mit einer flexiblen Anzeige.
• 2 ist eine Querschnittsansicht zur Erläuterung des Aufbaus einer flexiblen Anzeigevorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 3 ist eine vergrößerte Ansicht, die einen flexiblen Rahmen in 2 von (A) zeigt.
• 4 ist ein Funktionsdiagramm zur Erläuterung eines Grundkonzepts einer Jalousiestruktur gemäß einer Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung.
• 5 ist eine konzeptionelle Ansicht, die eine Grundstruktur von oberen und unteren Scharnierabschnitten gemäß einer anderen Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Offenbarung zeigt.
• 6 und 7 sind eine vergrößerte Ansicht bzw. eine Explosionsansicht, die den oberen Scharnierabschnitt in 5 zeigen.
• 8 und 9 sind eine vergrößerte Ansicht bzw. eine Explosionsansicht, die den unteren Scharnierabschnitt in 5 zeigen.
• 10A und 10B sind Funktionsdiagramme, die den Betrieb einer flexiblen Anzeigevorrichtung gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung zeigen.
• 11 ist eine teilweise vergrößerte Ansicht, die Scharnierabschnitte in einer Anzeigevorrichtung zeigt, an der die Jalousiestruktur von 4 und die oberen und unteren Scharnierabschnitte von 5 gemeinsam angebracht sind.
• 12 ist eine teilweise vergrößerte Ansicht eines Abdeckelements in 11.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification for a further understanding of the invention, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

• 1A Fig. 3 is a block diagram for explaining a display device related to the present disclosure.
• 1B Fig. 13 is a conceptual view for explaining a flexible display device having a flexible display.
• 2 FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the structure of a flexible display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 3 FIG. 13 is an enlarged view showing a flexible frame in FIG 2 of (A) shows.
• 4th FIG. 13 is a functional diagram for explaining a basic concept of a blind structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 5 FIG. 13 is a conceptual view showing a basic structure of upper and lower hinge portions according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
• 6th and 7th FIG. 13 is an enlarged view and an exploded view, respectively, showing the upper hinge portion in FIG 5 demonstrate.
• 8th and 9 FIG. 13 is an enlarged view and an exploded view, respectively, showing the lower hinge portion in FIG 5 demonstrate.
• 10A and 10B 12 are functional diagrams showing the operation of a flexible display device in accordance with the present disclosure.
• 11 FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged view showing hinge portions in a display device on which the blind structure of FIG 4th and the top and bottom hinge portions of 5 are attached together.
• 12th FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged view of a cover member in FIG 11 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

In the following, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar elements are denoted by the same numerical reference characters and redundant description thereof is omitted. The suffix “module” and “unit” used for the components disclosed in the following description are used only to simplify the description of the specification, and the suffix itself has no particular meaning or function. In describing the present disclosure, if a detailed explanation of a related known function or construction is deemed unnecessarily distracting from the gist of the present disclosure, such explanation has been omitted but would be understood by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings are for easy understanding of the technical idea of the present disclosure, and it should be understood that the spirit of the present disclosure is not limited by the accompanying drawings.

It goes without saying that although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, those elements are not replaced by these terms should be restricted. These terms are generally only used to distinguish one element from another.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected to” another element, the element may be directly connected to the other element or intervening elements may also be present. On the contrary, when an element is “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another element, it should be understood that there is no other element in between.

A singular representation can include a plural representation insofar as it represents a clearly different meaning from the context.

In the following, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar elements are denoted by the same numerical reference characters and redundant description thereof is omitted.

The display devices described here can be cell phones, smartphones, laptops, digital radios, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation devices, blackboard PCs, tablet PCs, ultrabooks, portable devices (e.g. smart watches , smart glasses, head mounted displays (HMDs), and the like.

However, it can be easily understood by those skilled in the art that the configuration according to the exemplary embodiments of the present specification can also be applied to stationary terminals such as digital TV, desktop computers, digital signage and the like, excluding the case that it is only on the mobile terminal is applicable. A mobile terminal device is described below as an example of a flexible display device in order to simplify the description in the present specification.

1A FIG. 13 is a block diagram for explaining a mobile terminal in connection with the present disclosure.

The mobile device 100 may contain components such as B. a wireless communication unit 110 , an input unit 120 , a registration unit 140 , an output unit 150 , an interface unit 160 , a memory 170 , a control unit 180 , a power supply unit 190 and the same. 1A shows the mobile device with different components, but it goes without saying that the implementation of all the components shown is not a prerequisite. Alternatively, more or fewer components can also be implemented.

In detail, the wireless communication unit 110 These components typically contain one or more modules that enable wireless communication between the mobile terminal 100 and a wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile device 100 or between the mobile device 100 and an external server. In addition, the wireless communication unit 110 one or more modules included to the mobile terminal 100 connect to one or more networks.

The wireless communication unit 110 may contain at least one of the following modules: a radio reception module 111 , a cellular module 112 , a wireless internet module 113 , a short range communication module 114 , a location information module 115 and the same.

The input unit 120 can have a camera 121 for inputting an image signal, a microphone 122 or an audio input module for inputting an audio signal or a user input unit 123 (e.g., a touch key, a push button (or mechanical key), etc.) to allow a user to enter information. The one from the input unit 120 Acquired audio data or image data can be analyzed and processed by a control command from the user.

The registration unit 140 may contain at least one sensor that detects at least one of the following information: internal information of the mobile terminal, an environment of the mobile terminal and user information. The registration unit 140 can for example be a proximity sensor 141 , a lighting sensor 142 , a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a G-sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a finger scan sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (e.g. the camera 121 ), a microphone 122 , a battery indicator, an environmental sensor (e.g. a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detection sensor, a thermal sensor, a gas sensor, etc.) and a chemical sensor (e.g. an electronic nose, a health sensor, a biometric sensor etc.). The mobile device 100 can be set up to do this by the detection unit 140 to use information received, in particular from one or more sensors of the detection unit 140 information received and combinations thereof.

The output unit 150 can be configured to output an audio signal, a video signal, or a tactile signal. The output unit 150 can be a display unit 151 , an audio output module 152 , a haptic module 153 , an optical output unit 154 and the like. The display unit 151 may have an interlayer structure or an integrated structure with a touch sensor to enable a touch screen. The touchscreen can be an output interface between the mobile terminal 100 and provide to a user and also as the user input unit 123 act, which is an input interface between the mobile terminal 100 and provides it to the user.

The interface unit 160 can serve as an interface to various types of external devices connected to the mobile device 100 are connected. The interface unit 160 For example, wired or wireless headset connections, external power connections, wired or wireless data connections, memory card connections, connections for connecting a device with an identification module, audio input / output connections (audio I / O connections), video I / O connections Connections, headphone connections or the like include. The mobile device 100 can execute a corresponding control that is assigned to a connected external device in response to the fact that the external device is connected to the interface unit 160 is connected.

In addition, the memory stores 170 Data, the various functions of the mobile device 100 support. The memory 170 is typically implemented in such a way that it contains data to support various functions or features of the mobile terminal 100 saves. For example, the memory 170 to be set up, application programs that are in the mobile terminal 100 are executed, data or instructions for operations of the mobile terminal 100 and the like to save. At least some of these application programs can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. Some other of these application programs can be used within the mobile terminal 100 at the time of delivery for basic functions of the mobile device 100 (e.g., receive a call, make a call, receive a message, send a message, and so on). On the other hand, the application programs in memory 170 stored in the mobile device 100 installed and from the control unit 180 are performed to an operation (or function) of the mobile terminal 100 perform.

The control unit 180 can typically be an overall operation of the mobile terminal 100 in addition to the operations associated with the application programs. The control unit 180 can provide or process information or functions suitable for a user by processing signals, data, information and the like inputted or outputted from the aforementioned components or those in the memory 170 stored application programs activated.

In addition, the control unit can 180 at least part of the in 1A control the components shown in memory 170 to operate stored application programs. In addition, the control unit can 180 Control the application programs by running at least two of the in the mobile terminal 100 included components combined for operation.

The power supply unit 190 can consume external or internal electricity and accordingly supply electricity necessary for the operation of the respective elements and components in the mobile device 100 under the control of the control unit 180 is required. The power supply unit 190 may include a battery, and the battery may be an embedded battery or a removable battery.

At least some of these elements and components can be combined in order to implement the operation and control of the mobile terminal or a control method of the mobile terminal according to various exemplary embodiments described here. In addition, the operation and the control or the control method of the mobile terminal in the mobile terminal can be implemented in such a way that at least one in the memory 170 stored application program is activated.

Each of the foregoing components is described below with reference to 1A described in more detail before various exemplary embodiments are explained by the mobile terminal 100 implemented with the configuration.

First up is the wireless communication unit 110 described. The radio reception module 111 the wireless communication unit 110 can receive a broadcast signal and / or associated broadcast information from an external broadcast management unit via a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel can comprise a satellite channel and / or a terrestrial channel. At least two radio reception modules 111 can in the portable electronic device 100 be provided in order to receive at least two radio channels or to change the radio channels at the same time.

The broadcast management server can be a server that generates and sends a broadcast signal and / or associated broadcast information, or a server that receives a previously generated broadcast signal and / or associated broadcast information and sends it to the mobile End device 100 sends. The broadcast signal can be implemented, inter alia, as a TV broadcast signal, as a radio broadcast signal and as a data broadcast signal. The broadcast signal may also include a data broadcast signal in combination with a TV or radio broadcast signal.

The radio signal can be coded according to at least one of the technical standards (or radio methods, e.g. ISO, IEC, DVB, ATSC, etc.) for the transmission and reception of digital radio signals. The radio reception module 111 can receive the digital broadcast signals with a method that is suitable for a technical specification defined in the technical standards.

The information related to the transmission may mean information on a transmission channel, a transmission program, a transmission service provider and the like. The information related to broadcasting can also be provided via a mobile communication network. The information assigned to the broadcast can be provided via a mobile communication network and from the mobile communication module 112 be received.

The information associated with the transmission can be implemented in various formats. The related information can e.g. B. an electronic program guide (EPG) for digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB), an electronic service guide (ESG) for digital video broadcast handheld (DVB-H) and the like. Via the radio reception module 111 Received radio signals and / or associated radio information can be stored in a memory 160 get saved.

The cellular module 112 can transmit wireless signals to / from at least one of the network units, e.g. B. a base station, an external terminal, a server and the like, send / receive in a cellular network that is structured according to technical standards or transmission methods for mobile communication (e.g., Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access (CDMA), Code Division Multi Access 2000 (CDMA2000), Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only (EV-DO), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE ), Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A), etc.)

The wireless signals can include an audio call signal, a video (telephony) call signal or various data formats corresponding to the sending / receiving of text / multimedia messages.

The wireless internet module 113 refers to a module to support wireless Internet access and can be used in the mobile device 100 built-in or installed externally. The wireless internet module 113 can send and / or receive wireless signals over communication networks according to wireless Internet technologies.

Examples of such wireless Internet access can be Wireless LAN (WLAN), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wireless Fidelity Direct (Wi-Fi Direct), Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), World Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced) and the like. The wireless internet module 113 can send / receive data according to at least one wireless Internet technology within a range that also includes Internet technologies not mentioned.

From the point of view that the wireless Internet access according to Wibro, HSDPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE, LTE-A and the like are carried out via a cellular network, the wireless Internet module 113 , which performs the wireless Internet access via the cellular network, as a type of cellular module 112 be understood.

The short range communication module 114 refers to a module for short-range communication. Suitable technologies for implementing short-range communication can be BLUETOOTH ™, Radio Frequency IDentification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra-WideBand (UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi -Fi Direct and the like. The short-range communication module 114 can enable wireless communication between the mobile terminal 100 and a wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile device 100 or between the mobile terminal and a network in which another mobile terminal is located 100 (or an external server) is located, support over wireless personal area networks. The short range communication module 114 refers to a module for close range communication.

The other mobile device can 100 be a portable device, e.g. B. a smart watch, smart glasses or a head mounted display (HMD) that is able to transfer data with the mobile device 100 to exchange (or data with the mobile device 100 to link). The short range communication module 114 a portable device capable of communicating with the mobile terminal may be in the vicinity of the mobile terminal 100 capture (recognize). If the detected portable device is a device that is used for communication with the mobile terminal device 100 is authenticated in accordance with the present disclosure, the control unit 180 also at least part of the in the mobile terminal 100 processed data via the short-range communication module 114 transferred to the portable device. Therefore, a user of the portable device can use the mobile terminal device 100 use processed data on the portable device. If, for example, a call is made on the mobile device 100 is received, the user can answer the call using the portable device. Even if a message is in the mobile device 100 is received, the user can check the received message with the portable device.

The location information module 115 is generally configured to recognize, calculate, derive or otherwise identify a position of the mobile terminal. For example, the location information module includes 115 a Global Position System (GPS) module, a WiFi module, or both. For example, if the mobile terminal uses the GPS module, a position of the mobile terminal can be detected using a signal sent from a GPS satellite. If the mobile terminal uses the WiFi module, the position of the mobile terminal can be determined, for example, using information that is assigned to a wireless access point (AP) that sends or receives a wireless signal to or from the WiFi module. Depending on your needs, the location information module 115 any function of the other modules of the wireless communication unit 110 to receive data on the location of the mobile device. As a module that is used to acquire the location (or the current location) of the mobile terminal, the location information module 115 not necessarily be limited to a module for directly calculating or recording the location of the mobile terminal.

Next, the input unit 120 be configured to provide an audio or video signal (or information) that is input to the mobile terminal or information that is input to the mobile terminal by a user. For the input of the audio information, the mobile terminal can 100 one or more cameras 121 include. The camera 121 processes an image frame such as B. a still image or video captured by an image sensor in a video calling or picture taking mode. The processed image frames can be displayed on the display unit 151 are displayed. On the other hand, the multitude of in the mobile terminal 100 arranged cameras 121 be arranged in a matrix configuration. By using the cameras 121 With the matrix configuration, a large number of image information with different angles or focal points can be fed into the mobile terminal 100 can be entered. As another example, the cameras 121 be arranged in a stereoscopic arrangement to capture left and right images to implement a stereoscopic image.

The microphone 122 can process an external audio signal into electrical audio data. The processed audio data can depending on one in the mobile terminal 100 executed function (or an executed application program) can be used in different ways. On the other hand, the microphone can 122 Contain various noise reduction algorithms to remove noise generated when receiving the external audio signal.

The user input device 123 can receive information entered by a user. If information about the user input device 123 can be entered, the control unit 180 an operation of the mobile terminal 100 that corresponds to the information entered. The user input device 123 can include one or more mechanical input elements (e.g. a button, a button, which is located on a front and / or rear surface or a side surface of the mobile terminal 100 a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch and the like) or a touch-sensitive input. As an example, the touch-sensitive input can be a virtual key or a soft key that is displayed on a touch screen through software processing, or a touch key that is located on the mobile terminal at a different location than the touch screen. On the other hand, the virtual key or the visual key on the touch screen can be displayed in various forms, e.g. B. as a graphic, text, icon, video or a combination thereof.

On the other hand, the registration unit 140 Detect at least one of the following information: internal information of the mobile terminal, environmental information of the mobile terminal and user information, and generate a corresponding detection signal. The control unit 180 can operate the mobile terminal 100 control or perform data processing, function or operation associated with an application program installed in the mobile terminal based on the detection signal. The following are representative sensors of various sensors that are in the detection unit 140 may be included, described in more detail.

First, relates to a proximity sensor 141 to a sensor that detects the presence or absence of an object approaching a surface to be detected or an object located in the vicinity of a surface to be detected using an electromagnetic field or infrared rays without mechanical contact. The proximity sensor 141 can be arranged in an inner area of the mobile terminal that is covered by the touchscreen, or in the vicinity of the touchscreen.

The proximity sensor 141 may include, for example, a transmissive type photoelectric sensor, a direct reflecting type photoelectric sensor, a specular type photoelectric sensor, a high frequency vibration proximity sensor, a capacitive proximity sensor, a magnetic proximity sensor, an infrared radiation proximity sensor, and the like. If the touch screen is implemented as a capacitive type, the proximity sensor can 141 Detect the proximity of a pointer to the touchscreen by changing an electromagnetic field that responds to the approach of a conductive object. In this case, the touch screen (touch sensor) can also be categorized as a proximity sensor.

On the other hand, for brief explanation, behavior in which the pointer is positioned so that it is in the vicinity of the touch screen without touching it is referred to as “proximity touch”, while behavior in which the pointer is substantially in contact with the touchscreen is called "contact touch". For the position which corresponds to the proximity contact of the pointer on the touchscreen, such a position will correspond to a position in which the pointer is perpendicular to the touchscreen when the pointer is approached. The proximity sensor 141 can detect proximity touches and proximity touch patterns (e.g. distance, direction, speed, time, position, state of movement, etc.). On the other hand, the control unit 180 Process data (or information) corresponding to the proximity touches and the proximity touch patterns generated by the proximity sensor 141 and output visual information that corresponds to the processing data on the touchscreen. In addition, the control unit can 180 the mobile device 100 control to perform different operations or process different data (or information) depending on whether a touch with respect to the same point on the touchscreen is either a proximity touch or a contact touch.

A touch sensor can be a touch of the touch screen, such as. B. the display unit 151 , capture with a variety of touch methods. Examples of such touch methods include a resistive type, a capacitive type, an infrared type, and a magnetic field type.

For example, the touch sensor can be set up in such a way as to detect changes in the pressure acting on a specific part of the display unit 151 is exercised, or a capacity exerted by a certain part of the display unit 151 starts to convert into electrical input signals. In addition, the touch sensor can be configured to detect not only a touched position and a touched area, but also the touch pressure. Here, the body of the touch object may be a finger, a touch pen, a pointer, or the like as an object through which a touch is applied to the touch sensor.

When touch input is detected by a touch sensor, appropriate signals can be transmitted to a touch controller. The touch control unit can process the received signals and then send corresponding data to the control unit 180 transfer. The control unit can 180 recognize which area of the display unit 151 was touched. Here, the touch control unit can be one of the control unit 180 separate component or the control unit 180 be yourself.

On the other hand, the control unit 180 perform a different control or the same control according to the type of object that touches the touch screen (or a touch button provided in addition to the touch screen). Whether the different control or the same control corresponding to the object causing touch input is performed can be performed based on a current operating state of the mobile terminal 100 or a currently running application program.

In the meantime, the touch sensor and the proximity sensor can be implemented individually or in combination to detect different types of touch, e.g. A short (or tap) touch, a long touch, a multiple touch, a dragging touch, a snapping touch, a pinching touch, a pinching touch, a swiping touch, a floating touch, and the like.

An ultrasonic sensor can be set up to use ultrasonic waves to detect position information in relation to a detection object. On the other hand, the control unit 180 calculate a position of a wave generation source based on information acquired from an illumination sensor and a plurality of ultrasonic sensors. Since light is much faster than ultrasonic waves, a time in which the light reaches the optical sensor can be much shorter than a time in which the ultrasonic wave reaches the ultrasonic sensor. The position of the wave generation source can be calculated from this fact. More specifically, the position of the wave generation source can be calculated by using a time difference from the time the ultrasonic wave reaches based on the light as a reference signal.

On the other hand, the camera can 121 that are the input unit 120 forms, be a kind of camera sensor. The camera sensor can contain at least one photo sensor (or image sensor) and a laser sensor.

Implementation of the camera 121 with a laser sensor can enable the detection of a touch of a physical object in relation to a stereoscopic 3D image. The photosensor can be laminated to the display device. The photosensor can be configured in such a way that it detects a movement of the object to be detected in the vicinity of the touchscreen. More specifically, the photosensor can include photodiodes and transistors in rows and columns to scan contents placed on the photosensor with the aid of an electrical signal that changes according to the amount of incident light. Namely, the photosensor can calculate the coordinates of the scanning object in accordance with the change in light so as to obtain positional information of the scanning object.

The display unit 151 can in the mobile device 100 display (output) processed information. For example, the display unit 151 Information on the execution screen of a in the mobile device 100 controlled application program or display user interface (UI) and graphical user interface (GUI) information in response to the execution screen information.

In addition, the display unit 151 can also be implemented as a stereoscopic display unit for displaying stereoscopic images.

The stereoscopic display unit can use a stereoscopic display scheme, e.g. B. a stereoscopic scheme (a glasses scheme), an autostereoscopic scheme (glasses-free scheme), a projection scheme (holographic scheme) or the like.

The audio output module 152 is generally configured to output audio. Such audio data can come from any number of different sources, such as the audio data from the wireless communication unit 110 can be received or in memory 170 may have been saved. The audio output module 152 can also provide audible output signals associated with a specific function (e.g. a ringing signal receiving tone, a message receiving tone, etc.) emitted by the mobile terminal 100 is performed. The audio output module 152 may include a receiver, speaker, buzzer, or the like.

A haptic module 153 can create various tactile effects that the user can feel. A typical example of the haptic module 153 generated tactile effect can be a vibration. The intensity, pattern and the like of the haptic module 153 Vibration generated can be through the selection of the user or the settings of the control unit 180 being controlled. For example, the haptic module 153 output different vibrations in a combining manner or in a sequential manner.

In addition to the vibration, the haptic module 153 produce various other tactile effects including an effect by stimulation, such as B. a pen assembly moving vertically with respect to a contact skin, a spray or suction force of air through a nozzle or suction port, a touch on the skin, a touch of an electrode, an electrostatic force, etc., an effect by replication the feeling of cold and warmth using an element capable of absorbing or generating heat, and the like.

The haptic module 153 can be configured to transmit tactile effects through direct contact of a user or through the muscular sense of a user with a finger or hand. Depending on the configuration of the mobile End device 100 can have two or more haptic modules 153 be provided.

An optical output module 154 can output a signal indicating event generation using light from a light source. Examples of events that occur in the mobile device 100 may be message reception, call alert reception, missed call, alarm, calendar notification, e-mail reception, information reception by an application, and the like.

A signal output by the optical output module 154 can be implemented so that the mobile terminal emits monochromatic light or light with multiple colors. The signal output can be ended when the mobile terminal detects an event check by the user.

The interface unit 160 serves as an interface for external devices connected to the mobile device 100 should be connected. The interface unit 160 can, for example, receive data transmitted from an external device, power for transmission to elements and components within the mobile terminal device 100 receive or internal data of the mobile device 100 transferred to such an external device. The interface unit 160 may include wired or wireless headset connections, external power connections, or wireless data connections, memory card connections, connections for connecting a device to an identification module, audio input / output connections (I / O), video I / O connections, headphone connections, or the like .

On the other hand, the identification module can be a chip that contains various information for authenticating the authorization to use the mobile terminal 100 and may include a user identity module (UIM), a subscriber identity module (SIM), a universal subscriber identity module (USIM), and the like. In addition, the device with the identification module (also referred to here as “identification device”) can have the form of a smart card. Accordingly, the identification device via the interface unit 160 with the electronic device 100 get connected.

When the mobile device 100 is connected to an external bracket, the interface unit 160 also serve as a passage through which the mobile device 100 is supplied with power from the holder, or it can serve as a passage through which various command signals entered by the user from the holder can be transmitted to the mobile terminal. Such various command signals or the energy input from the holder can serve as signals to recognize that the mobile terminal 100 is properly attached to the bracket.

The memory 170 can have programs to support the operations of the control unit 180 and to save input / output data (e.g. phonebook, messages, still images, videos, etc.). The memory 170 can store data associated with various vibration and sound patterns output in response to touch input on the touch screen.

The memory 170 may include at least one type of storage medium, including flash memory, hard disk, micro-type multimedia card, card-type memory (e.g. SD or DX memory, etc.), random access memory (RAM), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory , a magnetic disk and an optical disk. The mobile device 100 can also be operated in conjunction with a web storage device that has the storage function of the memory 170 running over the Internet.

As already mentioned, the control unit can 180 typically the general operation of the mobile terminal 100 Taxes. For example, the control unit 180 set or cancel a locked state to prevent a user from entering a control command related to applications when a state of the mobile terminal meets a preset condition.

In addition, the control unit can 180 also perform control and processing related to voice calls, data communication, video calls and the like, or perform pattern recognition processing to recognize handwriting input or image drawing input performed on the touch screen as characters or images. In addition, the control unit can 180 control one or a combination of these components to various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein on the mobile terminal 100 to implement.

The power supply unit 190 can be supplied with external or internal energy and supplies the corresponding energy necessary for the operation of the respective elements and components of the electronic device 100 under the control of the control unit 180 is required. The power supply unit 190 may include a battery that is typically rechargeable or removably coupled to the terminal body for charging.

In addition, the power supply unit 190 a connector included. The connector can be used as an example for the interface unit 160 be configured to which an external (charger) charger for the power supply for charging the battery is electrically connected.

As a further example, the power supply unit 190 Be configured to wirelessly charge the battery without using the connector. The power supply unit can be used here 190 Receive power transmitted from an external wireless power transmitter using at least one of an inductive coupling method based on magnetic induction or a magnetic resonance coupling method based on electromagnetic resonance.

Various embodiments described herein can be implemented in a computer readable or similar medium, e.g. B. with software, hardware or a combination thereof.

The display unit 151 can in the mobile device 100 display (output) processed information. For example, the display unit 151 Information on the execution screen of a in the mobile device 100 controlled application program or display user interface (UI) and graphical user interface (GUI) information in response to the execution screen information.

The display unit 151 may include at least a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, a three-dimensional (3D) display, and an e-ink display.

Furthermore, the display unit 151 depending on the design of the mobile device 100 be carried out in two or more numbers. For example, several of the display units 151 be arranged on one surface at a distance from or integrated with one another or on different surfaces.

The display unit 151 may include a touch sensor that detects a touch on the display unit to receive a control command in a touching manner. When a touch on the display unit 151 is input, the touch sensor can be configured to detect that touch, and the control unit 180 can generate a control command corresponding to the touch. The content entered upon touch can be text or a numerical value or a menu item that can be displayed or labeled in various modes.

The microphone 122 can be configured to receive the user's voice, other noises, and the like. The microphone 122 can be provided in multiple locations and configured to receive stereo sound.

The interface unit 160 can serve as a path through which the mobile terminal device 100 Can exchange data with external devices. For example, the interface unit 160 At least one connection for connecting to another device (e.g. headphones, an external loudspeaker or similar), a connection for near field communication (e.g. an IrDA connection (Infrared Data Association), a Bluetooth connection, a WLAN connection and the like) or a power supply connection for the power supply of the mobile device 100 be. The interface unit 160 can be in the form of a socket to accommodate an external card, such as. B. Subscriber Identification Module (SIM), User Identity Module (UIM) or a memory card for information storage.

At least one antenna for wireless communication can be arranged on the housing of the terminal. The antenna can be built into the housing of the terminal or formed on the housing. For example, an antenna that is part of the radio reception module 111 (please refer 1A) forms, be retractable into the housing of the terminal. Otherwise, the antenna can be formed as a film and adhered to an inner surface of a housing, and a housing containing a conductive material can be configured to function as an antenna.

A power supply unit 190 (please refer 1A) for powering the mobile device 100 can be arranged on the terminal body. The power supply unit 190 can have a battery 191 which is mounted in the terminal body or detachably coupled to an outside of the terminal body.

The battery 191 can have a with the interface unit 160 connected power source cable can be supplied with power. The battery 191 can also be (re) charged wirelessly using a wireless charger. Wireless charging can be implemented using magnetic induction or electromagnetic resonance.

On the mobile device 100 can also be an accessory to protect the appearance or to support or expand the functions of the mobile device 100 be provided. As an example of an accessory, a cover or pocket can be used to cover or receive at least one surface of the mobile terminal 100 be provided. The cover or pocket can be attached to the display unit 151 connected to the function of the mobile terminal 100 to expand. Another example of an accessory can be a touch pen to support or expand touch input on a touch screen.

1B Fig. 13 is a conceptual view for explaining a mobile terminal having a flexible display as a flexible display device. A mobile device 200 in accordance with the present disclosure comprises a flexible display unit 251 that is deformable by an external force.

The deformation can be at least one of the following methods: bending, bending, folding, twisting and rolling a display module. The deformable display module can be referred to as a "flexible display unit". This is where the flexible display unit 151 include both a general flexible advertisement and an e-paper.

The general flexible display refers to a light, non-breakable display that still has the properties of the conventional flat screen and is manufactured on a flexible substrate that can be bent, kinked, folded, twisted or rolled.

In addition, the e-paper is a display technology that uses the property of a general ink and is different from the conventional flat panel display in terms of the use of reflected light. The e-paper can change information with the help of a rotating ball or electrophoresis using a capsule.

In a configuration in which the flexible display unit 251 is not deformed (e.g. in a configuration with an infinite radius of curvature and hereinafter referred to as the first configuration, see (b) in 1B) , becomes a display area of the flexible display unit 251 to a flat surface. In a configuration in which the display unit is deformed from the first configuration by an external force (e.g. a configuration with a finite radius of curvature, hereinafter referred to as the second configuration, see (a) in FIG 1B) , the display area can be a curved surface.

As shown in the drawings, the information displayed in the second configuration can be visual information output on the curved surface. The visual information can be realized so that the light emission of each unit pixel (sub-pixel) arranged in a matrix configuration is independently controlled. The unit pixel denotes an elementary unit for representing a color.

The flexible display unit 251 can be brought into a curved state (e.g., a state in which it is curved from top to bottom or from right to left), which is not a flat state, in the first configuration. In this case, when an external force acts on the flexible display unit 251 is exercised, the flexible display unit 251 deformed back to a flat state (or a less curved state) or a more curved state.

On the other hand, the flexible display unit 151 implement a flexible touch screen with a touch sensor in combination with a touch sensor. When a touch is entered on the flexible touch screen, the control unit can 180 (please refer 1A) perform a control corresponding to the touch input. The flexible touch screen can be configured to recognize touch input in both the second configuration and the first configuration.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 200 according to the modified example contain a deformation sensor that detects the deformation of the flexible display unit 251 detected. The deformation sensor can be in the detection unit 140 be included (see 1A) .

The deformation sensor can be in the flexible display unit 251 or in the bodies 201 , 202 be provided to provide information regarding the deformation of the flexible display unit 251 capture. Here you can see the information related to the deformation of the flexible display unit 251 relate, a deformation direction, a deformation degree, a deformation position, a deformation time, an acceleration with which the deformed flexible display unit 251 will be restored, and the like. In addition to these, such information may be various information obtained in response to the deformation of the flexible display unit 251 are useful.

In addition, the control unit can 180 (please refer 1A) those on the flexible display unit 251 change the displayed information or a control signal for controlling a function of the mobile terminal 200 based on the information obtained from the deformation sensor detected deformation of the flexible display unit 251 Respectively.

The configuration deformation of the display unit 251 does not necessarily have to be restricted to an external force. When the flexible display unit 251 for example, is in a first configuration, it can be deformed into a second configuration by a command from a user or an application.

The mobile device 200 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a housing 210 that is configured to be foldable and deployable. The case 210 may be a case (e.g., a frame, a cover, or the like) that forms an appearance of the mobile terminal. The case 210 has a plurality of housings, and various electronic parts are arranged in an internal space formed by coupling them.

As shown in the figure, the housing 210 in a first and a second body 201 or. 202 be provided, which are rotatably connected to one another. The flexible display unit 251 is with one surface of the case 210 coupled and designed to be deformable.

The first body 201 carries a portion of the flexible display unit 251 and the second body 202 carries the other area (remaining area) of the flexible display unit 251 . Several electronic parts for controlling the mobile device 200 are on at least a portion of the first and second bodies 201 , 202 appropriate.

The first and the second body 201 , 202 rotate relative to each other at an angle while they are connected to each other, and thereby the flexible display unit 251 bent, and thus the flexible display unit goes 251 into a folded state (folded state, second state), in which at least one area thereof is folded in an overlapping manner.

An illustration (a) of 1B Fig. 13 is a conceptual view illustrating the unfolding (a first state) in which the flexible display unit is 251 is in an unfolded state, and a figure (b) of 1B Fig. 13 is a conceptual view illustrating the folding (a second state) in which the flexible display unit is 251 is in a folded state.

Although only the first and second states are shown in the drawings, there is a state in which an angle made by a portion of the flexible display unit 251 and the remaining portion thereof is formed while the deformation is varied from the first state to the second state.

The first and second bodies are in the second state 201 , 202 superimposed on each other, and a space between the one area and the other area of the flexible display unit 251 is curved while forming a curved surface. In this case, a portion that forms the curved surface may be a curved portion 252 be (see 2 B) . In other words, the flexible display unit 251 can with the curved section 252 configured to be opened by folding the housing 210 is bent.

On the other hand, the first and the second body 201 , 202 by a hinge section 230 be rotatably connected to each other. In other words, the hinge section 230 connects the first and second body 201 , 202 relatively rotatable and is between the first and second bodies 201 , 202 arranged. The flexible display unit 251 is on a surface of the first and second bodies 201 , 202 arranged and is folded and unfolded by the relative rotation.

In this case, there is a limit to the bending radius of the flexible display in a foldable mobile terminal. Therefore, it is necessary to consider a difference between a length of the bent portion and a length of the plane during the folding and unfolding process. In order to compensate for such a change in length, the flexible display is arranged in this example between an upper and a lower hinge. In the following, the flexible display device in this example will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

2A and 2 B are cross-sectional views of 1B to explain a structure of a flexible display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and 3 FIG. 13 is an enlarged view showing a flexible frame in FIG 2A shows.

As shown in the drawings, shows 2A a first state in which the first body 201 and the second body 202 are arranged in parallel, and 2 B shows a second state in which the second body 202 about the first body 201 is folded. The mobile device 200 is set up to be able to change its shape freely from a first state to a second state or from a second state to a first state.

To realize this, you can use the first body 201 and the second body 202 each with the hinge section 1300 connected and to it be set up in relation to the hinge portion 230 to be rotatable.

Referring to 2A is the flexible display unit 251 on a surface of the first body 201 and on a surface of the second body 202 arranged. In other words, the flexible display unit 251 is about the first body 201 and the second body 202 arranged, realizing a large screen.

In this case, a flexible framework can be used 220 on a rear side of the flexible display unit 251 be arranged. The flexible framework 220 may be designed to be the same or a smaller size than the flexible display unit 251 in the X direction. Accordingly, a first hinge 230a and a second hinge 230b of the hinge section 230 (please refer 1B) on both sides of the flexible display unit 251 and the flexible frame 220 be arranged. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this and the flexible framework 220 can be slightly larger in X-direction than the flexible display unit 251 .

Referring to 3 has the flexible framework 220 a flexible area 225 that is bendable at least up to a maximum curvature. The flexible area 225 can be flexible sections 221 , 222 , 223 , 224 include that are bendable at different maximum curvatures. The flexible sections 221 , 222 , 223 , 224 can be used consecutively along a direction (Y direction in the drawing) of the flexible frame 220 be arranged so that the flexible frame 220 can be bent with respect to one direction. In the following description, the X direction corresponds to a width direction of the flexible frame 220 , and the Y direction corresponds to a lengthwise direction of the flexible frame 220 .

In this example, the flexible area includes 225 a first flexible section 221 which is bendable to a state with a maximum first curvature, and a second flexible portion 222 which is bendable to a state with a maximum second curvature. As shown in the drawing, two second flexible sections 222 be provided on both sides of the first flexible section 221 are arranged in the Y direction.

First holes are repeated on the first flexible section 221 designed to accommodate the bend of the first flexible section 221 to realize. In other words: through the first holes, the first flexible section 221 Flexibility are generated, and the first flexible section 221 can be bent to a state that has the maximum first curvature.

The first holes are repeatedly formed along the X and Y directions which intersect each other. The first holes are elongated in the X direction.

Similarly, second holes are repeated on the second flexible section 222 formed around the bend of the second flexible section 222 to realize. In other words: because of the second holes, the second flexible section 222 a flexibility can be created, and the second flexible section 222 can be bent to a state that has the maximum second curvature. Here the second curvature has a different curvature than the first curvature.

The second holes are formed parallel to the first holes, so that the second flexible section 222 along with the first flexible section 221 can be bent with respect to the Y direction. The second holes are repeatedly formed along the X and Y directions that intersect each other. The second holes are elongated in the X direction.

In this example, the first curvature can be greater than the second curvature. In other words, the first flexible section 221 is designed to be able to bend more than the second flexible section 222 . In this way, there is a total area covered by the first holes per unit area in the first flexible section 221 is occupied, greater than a total area that is occupied by the second flexible sections per unit area in the second flexible section 222 is taken so that the first flexible section 221 is more flexible than the second flexible section 222 .

Therefore, while the first and second flexible sections 221 , 222 are bent at the first and second curvature, respectively, a repulsive force acting on the first flexible section 221 acts to be larger than that on the second flexible section 222 works.

A rigid section 226 is on one side of every other flexible section 222 arranged in the Y direction. The rigid section 226 may be formed in a plane as a portion that is hardly bent by an external force. The rigid section 226 is not provided with holes that allow it to be bent.

This way you are the rigid section 226 and the first flexible section 221 on either side of the second flexible section 222 arranged in the Y direction. In a state in which the first and second flexible portions 221 , 222 are bent to the maximum, are the rigid sections 226 arranged so that they face each other.

As described above, the second is flexible section 222 on either side of the first flexible section 221 each arranged in the Y direction, and the rigid section 226 is on one side of every other flexible section 222 provided in the Y direction.

A connecting section 223 for seamlessly connecting the first flexible section 221 and the second flexible section 222 is between the first flexible section 111 and the second flexible section 112 educated. Similarly, there is between the first flexible section 222 and the second flexible section 226 a boundary section 224 designed to seamlessly connect these sections.

In other words, the rigid section 226 , the boundary section 224 , the second flexible section 222 , the connecting section 223 , the first flexible section 221 , the connecting section 223 , the second flexible section 222 , the boundary section 224 and the rigid section 226 can be used consecutively on the flexible frame 220 be arranged.

The connecting section 223 is designed to be less flexible than the first flexible section 221 and more flexible than the second flexible section 222 . In addition, the boundary section 224 be adapted to be less flexible than the second flexible section 222 .

Referring to 2A is the first flexible section 221 of the flexible frame 220 at an intermediate portion of the flexible frame 220 formed to the bent section 252 the flexible display unit 251 to support. The rigid section 226 is arranged so that he has the first body 201 and the second body 202 covers to the flexible display unit 251 in a flat state on both sides of the bent portion 252 to keep.

Referring to 2 B becomes the flexible display unit 251 bent by an external force when the second body 202 about the first body 201 is folded. The first flexible section 221 is bent with a first curvature, the second flexible section 222 is bent with a second curvature, and the rigid sections 226 are arranged so that they face each other. In this case, as the hinge sections 230 on both sides of the flexible frame 220 are arranged, a curved cross-sectional shape of the first flexible portion 221 with a rotating shaft of the hinge section 230 be overlapped. When viewed from a different angle, the curved cross-sectional shape of the curved portion 252 the flexible display unit 251 with the rotating shaft of the hinge section 230 be overlapped. Though a positional relationship between the flexible frame 220 , the flexible display unit 251 and the hinge section 230 has been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also have a configuration without the flexible frame 220 exhibit.

On the other hand, the first body is rotating 201 and the second body 202 according to 2A and 2 B along with 1B around the hinge section 230 , and thus the end portions of the first body rotate 201 and the second body 202 along an outer edge of the hinge section 230 between the first state and the second state. In this case, in the second state, there is a gap between the end portions of the first body 201 and the second body 202 educated. More specifically, there becomes an empty space between an end portion of the first body 201 , an end portion of the second body 202 and the first hinge 230a and the second hinge 230b of the hinge section 230 formed, and the flexible display device 200 can the cover 260 have that is able to cover the space.

In the present disclosure, the cover member is 260 implemented as a blind structure, thereby providing a new mechanism that enables both a slim design and the covering of a space between bodies in a flexible display device. Such a mechanism is described below with reference to FIG 4th described in more detail.

4th FIG. 13 is a functional diagram for explaining a basic concept of a blind structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The cover element 260 can between the body 201 and the second body 202 be arranged to a space between the first body 201 and the second body 202 cover that by folding the flexible display unit 251 is formed (see 2A and 2 B) . The cover element 260 is elongated along the edges of the end portions of the first body 201 and the second body 202 formed, and both side edges (long edge) of the cover element 260 are the end sections of the first body 201 or the second body 202 facing. Also is the hinge section 230 adjacent to both ends (short edges) of the cover element 260 arranged.

Referring to the present drawings, the cover member 260 in the first State next to the flexible display unit 251 arranged and then operated by a lever 270 pressed to slide around a space between the first body 201 and the second body 202 to cover in the second state. For example, the cover element moves 260 between the second state in which it is from the flexible display unit 251 is spaced, and the first state in which there is the flexible display unit 251 supports to the gap in connection with the unfolding and folding of the flexible display unit 251 to cover. However, if the previous flexible framework 220 (please refer 2A and 3 ) on a rear surface of the flexible display unit 251 is arranged, the cover element 260 the flexible framework 220 support in the first state.

At this point the leverage is up 270 with the hinge section 230 connected to in connection with the unfolding and folding of the flexible display unit 251 to rotate to at least part of the cover element 260 to support. For example, the hinge portion comprises 230 a first rotating shaft 231 that with the first body 201 is connected, and a second rotating shaft 232 that is connected to the second body, and the lever can be connected to at least one of the first rotating shaft 231 and the second rotating shaft 232 be coupled.

In this example are a first lever 271 and a second lever 272 with the first rotating shaft 231 or the second rotating shaft 232 coupled, and the first lever 271 and the second lever 272 rotate together with the first body 201 and the second body 202 .

As shown in the figure, the lever 270 a coupling section 273 , the one with the first rotating shaft 231 or the second rotating shaft 232 is coupled, and a support projection 274 include that from the coupling section 273 protrudes to at least part of the cover element 260 to support. The support protrusion 274 is designed so that it connects to the cover element 260 in a thickness direction of the cover member 260 comes into engagement in the first state and thus a force on the cover element 260 exerts when the coupling section 273 turns. The cover element 260 moves to a position in which the space between the bodies 201 , 202 is covered by the force.

As described above, according to the present disclosure, the hinge portion 230 a force on the cover element 260 just with the lever 270 transmitted without an additional connection structure, thereby resulting in a more compact structure of the display device.

According to the present disclosure, the upper and lower hinges of the display are provided with different functions, thereby providing a display device with a compact structure that can be axially interlocked and freely stopped. The following is the structure of the hinge section 230 with reference to the 5 to 9 described in more detail.

5 FIG. 13 is a conceptual view showing a basic structure of upper and lower hinge portions according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG 6th and 7th FIG. 13 is an enlarged view and an exploded view, respectively, showing the upper hinge portion in FIG 5 show and 8th and 9 FIG. 13 is an enlarged view and an exploded view, respectively, showing the lower hinge portion in FIG 5 demonstrate.

Referring to 5 can use the hinge sections 230 on both sides of the flexible display unit 251 be arranged. For such an example, the hinge portion 230 a first hinge 230a and a second hinge 230b include, each at both ends of the cover element 260 are arranged. You can use the first hinge 230a and the second hinge 230b be provided with different functions. The different functions can be an axial toothing and a free stop which, in addition to a function of connecting bodies, are implemented in a relatively rotatable manner. For example, the first hinge 230a with an axial interlocking function and the second hinge 230b be provided with a free stop function.

According to the figure, the rotating shafts 231a , 232a of the first hinge 230a are engaged by means of gear to the first body 201 and the second body 202 to be axially interlocked. More precisely, the first hinge can 230a a hinge housing 235a , a first rotating shaft 231a , a second rotating shaft 232a and an idler gear 233a include (see 6th and 7th ).

The hinge housing 235a can have a base section 236a and a lid portion 237a include, and the first rotating shaft 231a , the second rotating shaft 232a and the idler gear 233a can be arranged in an interior space defined by the connection between the base portion 236a and the lid portion 237a is defined.

The first rotating shaft 231a and the second rotating shaft 232a each of which is the pivot shaft of the first hinge 230a are can with the housings 211 , 212 of the first body 201 and the second body 202 be coupled. For this purpose it is in the housings 211 , 212 of the first body 201 and the second body 202 a hinge groove 213 (or an upper hinge groove) and the rotating shafts 231a , 232a can in the hinge groove 213 can be used.

As shown, along the outer circumference of the first rotating shaft 231a or the second rotating shaft 232a Gears may be formed via a pair of idler gears 233 that are on the first hinge 230a are provided to be in engagement with one another. More precisely, the idler gear 233 a first idler gear 233-1 and a second idler gear 233-2 sequentially in the order of the gear of the first rotating shaft 231a , the first idler gear 233-1 , the second idler gear 233-2 and the gear of the second rotating shaft 232a are connected. According to this structure, the first hinge 230a perform a function of the axial toothing.

In addition, the aforementioned lever can in this case 270 with the first rotating shaft 231a or the second rotating shaft 232a be coupled. The coupling section 273 of the lever 270 can with a coupling groove 275 be formed into which the first rotating shaft 231a and the second rotating shaft 232a are used, and the support projection 274 can from the coupling section 273 protrude.

A gear plate can also be used to fix the position of the gears 234 are provided in which the first rotating shaft 231a , the first idler 233-1 , the second idler 233-2 and the second rotating shaft 232a be used penetrating. In addition, on the housings 211 , 212 Support grooves may be formed from the end portions of the first rotating shaft 231a , the first idler gear 233-1 , of the second idler gear 233-2 and the second rotating shaft 232a be supported.

According to this structure, a meshing axial mesh structure and a louver structure using a lever connected to the rotating shaft can be put together in the first hinge 230a implemented.

On the other hand, the second hinge 230b as in the 5 , 8th and 9 shown, be equipped with a free stop function.

As shown in the figure, a frictional force can be exerted on the rotating shafts of the second hinge 230b exercised to the first and second bodies 201 , 202 to fix at any angle when the first body 201 and the second body 202 rotate relative to each other. More specifically, the second hinge can 230b a hinge housing 235b , a first rotating shaft 231b , a second rotating shaft 232b and a friction element 238 include.

The hinge housing 235b can have a base section 236b and a lid portion 237b include, and the first rotating shaft 231b , the second rotating shaft 232b and the friction element 238 can be arranged in an interior space defined by the connection between the base portion 236b and the lid portion 237b is defined.

The first rotating shaft 231b and the second rotating shaft 232b each of which is the pivot shaft of the second hinge 230b are can with the housings 211 , 212 of the first body 201 and the second body 202 be coupled. For this purpose it is in the housings 211 , 212 of the first body 201 and the second body 202 a hinge groove 214 (or a lower hinge groove) and the rotating shafts 231b , 232b can in the hinge groove 214 can be used. When the hinge groove of the first hinge 230a coupled housing is an upper hinge groove in the example described above, the hinge groove of the with the second hinge 230b coupled housing are referred to as the lower hinge groove in this example.

As shown in the figure, the second hinge 230b the friction element 238 contain that a frictional force on the rotating shafts 231b , 232b of the second hinge 230b generated.

The friction element 238 has a through hole 239 through which the first rotating shaft 231b and the second rotating shaft 232b are inserted, and an inner surface of the through hole 239 becomes in contact with an outer peripheral surface of the first rotating shaft 231b and the second rotating shaft 232b brought to generate the frictional force. The through hole 239 is in the body of the friction element 238 formed, and the body of the friction element 238 can be made of polyacetal (POM) resin to generate suitable frictional force.

In addition, the aforementioned lever can in this case 270 with the first rotating shaft 231b or the second rotating shaft 232b be coupled. The coupling section 273 of the lever 270 can with a coupling groove 275 be formed into which the first and second rotating shafts 231b , 232b are used, and the support projection 274 can from an outer peripheral surface of the coupling portion 273 protrude.

As described above, a free stop structure and a blind structure with a lever connected to a rotating shaft can be implemented together.

In the meantime, as described above, the first hinge and the second hinge are each connected to the lever to perform a blind function. A related structure is described in more detail below.

10A and 10B FIG. 12 are operational diagrams showing an operation of a flexible display device according to the present disclosure, and FIG 11 FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged view showing hinge portions in a display device on which the blind structure of FIG 4th and the top and bottom hinge portions of 5 are attached together, and 12th Fig. 3 is a partially enlarged view of the cover member 260 in 11 .

Referring to the present drawings as above with reference to FIG 4th shown, the cover element 260 between the first body 201 and the second body 202 be arranged to a space between the first body 201 and the second body 202 cover that by folding the flexible display unit 251 are formed.

In this case, one side of the cover element 260 of at least one of the housings 211 , 222 of the first body 201 and the second body 202 can be supported to move between the first state and the second state, and the other side of which can be supported by the lever 270 be supported. In this example, one side can be an outside of the cover element 260 and the other side can be an inside of the cover element 260 be.

As in one with reference to the 7th and 9 As shown in the example described, it may be a structure in which the lever 270 with the first rotating shaft 231 and the second rotating shaft 232 of the hinge section 230 is coupled to the cover element 260 in connection with the rotation of the body 201 , 202 to press. The first rotating shaft 231 and the second rotating shaft 232 , which are the rotating shafts of the first hinge and the second hinge, respectively, can be connected to the housings 211 , 212 of the first body 201 and the second body 202 be coupled. For this purpose, in the housings 211 and 222 of the first body 201 and the second body 202 Hinge grooves 213 , 214 be formed, and the rotating shafts can be in the hinge grooves 213 , 214 can be used.

This becomes the cover element 260 in the first state next to the flexible display unit 251 arranged and then by the lever 270 pressed to slide so that in the second state there is a space between the first body 201 and the second body 201 covers.

At this point you can order one side of the cover element 260 to support, protruding sections 223 , 224 out of the housings 211 , 222 protrude to one side of the cover element 260 to press in the first state.

The shapes of the preceding sections 223 , 224 can from the first body 201 and the second body 202 protrude towards each other and thus symmetrically on the left and right side in relation to the center of the cover element 260 be trained.

Referring to the present drawings, the foregoing section 223 of the first body and the protruding section 224 of the second body each have a first section 225 and a second section 226 include.

The first paragraph 225 can from end portions of the first body 201 and the second body 202 protrude, and the second section 226 can move away from the first body 225 extend in a direction relative to the first body 201 is inclined. The second section 226 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the first section 225 extend. At this point there is at least part of the second section 226 designed as a curved surface around one side of the cover element 260 to press in the first state and at least part of the cover element 260 to cover in the second state.

As both sides of the cover element 260 are covered in the second state, a space between the first body 201 and the second body 202 in the second state completely through the protruding sections 223 , 224 and the cover element 260 to be covered. According to this structure, a concealing operation of the cover can be implemented in the opening and closing operation of the flexible display device. In addition, according to this structure, since an outer surface of the hinge or the case can be hidden inside, the shape of a folded portion previously expressed by angles can be implemented in a shape close to a curved surface.

Meanwhile, in the first state, the above section 223 of the first body and the protruding section 224 of the second body can be shaped so that they are attached to the respective second sections 226 to meet.

As in 10 cover the previous sections 223 , 224 in the first state a space between the bodies 201 , 202 from. In addition, the preceding sections 223 , 224 in the first state on one side of the cover element 260 press, and such a pressing force can through the cover member 260 on a rear surface of the flexible display unit 251 be transmitted. The pressing force can have the function of the bent portion 252 the flexible display unit 251 unfold so that it is flat. In other words, the rear surface of the flexible display unit 251 is pressed when unfolded to maintain flatness. But if the flexible framework 220 on the rear surface of the flexible display unit 251 is arranged, the cover element 260 the flexible framework 220 In the first state, rely on the compressive force on the bent section 252 through the previous sections 223 , 223 , the cover element 260 and the flexible frame 220 transferred to.

In addition, as in 10B shown, a sliding movement of the cover element 260 through the hinge housing 235 of the hinge 230 be guided.

For example, on one side of the hinge housing 235 an insertion hole 235-1 be formed by the at least part of the cover element 260 is introduced. More specifically, the hinge housing of the hinge portion may include a base part and a lid part, and the insertion hole 235-1 can be formed in at least one of the base part and the cover part. The lever can be accommodated in the hinge housing to at least part of the in the insertion hole 235-1 introduced cover element 260 to support, and a range of motion of the cover member 260 can through upper and lower ends of the insertion hole 235-1 to be disabled.

More precisely, the cover element 260 a cover body 261 disposed between the first body and the second body, and an insertion projection 262 from one end portion of the cover body 261 protrudes and into the insertion hole 235-1 is introduced.

The cover body 261 is supported by at least one of the housings of the first body and the second body. The cover body 261 can have a flat section 263 included in the first state from the previous paragraphs above 223 , 224 is pressed, and an extension portion 264 that extends from both sides of the flat section 263 extends and is provided with an inclined or curved surface. The extension section 264 may be a section that is in the second state from the previous preceding sections 223 , 224 is covered.

The insertion protrusion 262 may be shaped so that both of its side faces are inclined. At least part of the support protrusion 274 of the lever 270 may be on the inclined side surface in a thickness direction of the cover member 260 overlap, whereby a structure is realized in which the support projection 274 of the lever 270 intervenes.

In addition, the insertion projection 262 from the flat section 263 protrude and into the insertion hole 235-1 to be introduced. In such an example, the insertion projections 262 at both ends of the flat section 263 be formed and into the foregoing first and second hinges 230a or. 230b to be introduced. This allows the insertion projection 262 through the one with the first hinge 230a coupled lever 271 and the one with the second hinge 230b coupled lever 272 be supported.

As described above, according to the present disclosure, a blind structure having a hinge case can be used, thereby improving a degree of freedom in designing the area where the hinge is located. In addition, it is possible to have one between the hinge section 130 and to minimize the gap formed in the body.

The configurations and methods according to the above-described embodiments are not restrictively applicable to the above flexible display device, and all or parts of each embodiment can be selectively combined and configured to make various modifications thereto.

Claims (18)

A flexible display device comprising: a first body and a second body; a hinge portion relatively rotatably connecting the first body and the second body; a flexible display unit disposed on one side of the first body and the second body to be folded and unfolded by the relative rotation; a cover member disposed between the first body and the second body to cover a space between the first body and the second body formed by folding the flexible display unit; and a lever connected to the hinge portion for rotating in conjunction with the folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit to support at least a part of the cover member. Flexible display device according to Claim 1 , wherein the cover element between a first state in which it supports the flexible display unit in connection with the folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit, and a second state in spaced from the flexible display unit to cover the gap. Flexible display device according to Claim 2 wherein one side of the cover member is supported by at least one of the housings of the first body and the second body and the other side thereof is supported by the lever to move between the first state and the second state. Flexible display device according to Claim 3 wherein a protruding portion protrudes from the housing to press one side of the cover member in the first state. Flexible display device according to Claim 4 wherein the protruding portion includes a first portion protruding from the ends of the first body and the second body and a second portion extending in a direction inclined with respect to the first portion. Flexible display device according to Claim 5 wherein at least a part of the second section is formed with a curved surface in order to press a side of the cover element in the first state and to cover at least a part of the cover element in the second state. Flexible display device according to Claim 1 wherein the hinge portion has a first rotating shaft connected to the first body and a second rotating shaft connected to the second body, and the lever is coupled to at least one of the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft. Flexible display device according to Claim 7 wherein the hinge portion further comprises a hinge case in which the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft are housed, and an insertion hole into which at least a part of the cover member is inserted is formed on one side of the hinge case. Flexible display device according to Claim 8 wherein the lever is housed in the hinge housing to support at least a portion of the cover member. Flexible display device according to Claim 8 , wherein a range of movement of the cover member is limited by the upper and lower ends of the insertion hole. Flexible display device according to Claim 8 wherein the cover member includes a cover body disposed between the first body and the second body, and an insertion projection protruding from an end portion of the cover body and inserted into the insertion hole. Flexible display device according to Claim 11 wherein the cover body is supported by at least one of the housings of the first body and the second body, and the insertion projection is supported by the lever. Flexible display device according to Claim 11 wherein the lever includes a coupling portion coupled to the first rotating shaft or the second rotating shaft, and a support protrusion protruding from the coupling portion to support the insertion protrusion. Flexible display device according to Claim 1 wherein the hinge portion comprises a first hinge and a second hinge arranged at both ends of the cover member. Flexible display device according to Claim 14 wherein the rotating shafts of the first hinge are geared to axially interlock the first body and the second body, and a frictional force is applied to the rotating shafts of the second hinge to rotate the first body and the second body at an arbitrary angle fix. Flexible display device according to Claim 15 wherein the first hinge has an intermediate gear arranged between the rotating shafts of the first hinge, and the second hinge has a friction element that generates a frictional force on the rotating shafts of the second hinge. A flexible display device comprising: a first body and a second body; a flexible display unit configured to be folded and unfolded by relative rotation between the first body and the second body; a cover member configured to cover a space between the first body and the second body; and a first hinge and a second hinge each disposed at both ends of the cover member, the rotating shafts of the first hinge being geared to axially interlock the first body and the second body, and a frictional force on the rotating shafts of the second hinge is exerted to fix the first body and the second body at an arbitrary angle, and a lever that supports at least a part of the cover member is coupled to the first hinge and the second hinge, respectively, to the To move the cover element in connection with the folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit. Flexible display device according to Claim 17 wherein the first hinge and the second hinge each have a first rotating shaft connected to the first body and a second rotating shaft connected to the second body, and the lever is coupled to the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft.

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