KR102364083B1 - Mobile terminal - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention includes a deformable deformable region that can be deformed into a folded state and an unfolded state by an external force, and includes a flexible display unit, a body unit supporting a region of the flexible display unit on the front side, and supporting the display unit, corresponding to the deformable region It provides a mobile terminal comprising a deformable support part having a first living hinge part and a folding unit mounted on the body part to guide the deformation of the display part by the external force.

Description

mobile terminal {MOBILE TERMINAL}

The present invention relates to a mobile terminal capable of bending or bending at least a part of a display unit.

A mobile terminal includes a battery and a display unit, outputs information to the display unit using power supplied from the battery, and includes all devices configured to be portable by a user. The mobile terminal includes a device for recording and reproducing a moving picture and a device for displaying a graphic user interface (GUI), and includes a laptop computer, a mobile phone, glasses and a watch capable of displaying screen information, a game machine, and the like. .

As such a mobile terminal has diversified functions, it is implemented in the form of a multimedia player equipped with complex functions such as, for example, taking pictures or videos, playing music or video files, playing games, and receiving broadcasts. there is. In order to support and increase the function of the mobile terminal, it may be considered to improve the structural part and/or the software part of the mobile terminal.

Such mobile terminals are evolving into various types of designs, and efforts are being made to develop new types of mobile terminals in order to meet the needs of users who want new and various types of designs. The new form includes structural changes and improvements for users to use the mobile terminal more conveniently. As one of these structural changes and improvements, a mobile terminal in which at least a portion of the display unit is bent or can be bent is attracting attention.

However, a complex configuration for providing power or transmitting an external force is required to implement a bent or bent mobile terminal, which has the disadvantage of complicating the appearance or thickening the thickness of the mobile terminal.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a mobile terminal having a foldable display unit deformable with a simplified deformable structure.

In order to achieve the above object of the present invention, a mobile terminal according to an embodiment includes a deformable deformable region that can be deformed into a folded state and an unfolded state by an external force. A body for supporting the display unit, and a deformable support unit having a first living hinge unit corresponding to the deformable region, and a folding unit mounted on the body unit to guide deformation of the display unit by the external force.

As an example related to the present invention, the body part consists of first and second bodies separated from each other, the folding unit is formed between the first and second bodies, and the folding unit is the first living hinge part. It may include a second living hinge portion disposed to correspond to.

As an example related to the present invention, the folding unit is formed at one end of the second living hinge part, a first connection part fixed to the second body, the other end of the second living hinge part, and is formed on the first body. A second connection part having a guide groove formed to be slidable in a first direction, which is a longitudinal direction of the body part, may be included, and the second body may include a guide protrusion inserted into the guide groove.

As an example related to the present invention, a region of the second living hinge part is exposed by the first and second body parts in the unfolded state, and when converted to the folded state, by sliding of the second connection part, the The remaining area of the second living hinge part may be exposed by the first and second body parts.

As an example related to the present invention, the second living hinge may include a plurality of ribs formed to be spaced apart from each other by the external force.

As an example related to the present invention, the plurality of ribs are arranged to be in close contact with each other in the folded state, and the plurality of ribs are recessed from a fitting protrusion protruding from one side and the other side, so that fitting protrusions of adjacent ribs are fitted. It may include a groove.

As an example related to the present invention, the fitting protrusion may be disposed between the plurality of ribs in the folded state.

As an example related to the present invention, in the unfolded state, the outer surface of the rib is formed to form one surface with the outer surface of the first and second body parts.

As an example related to the present invention, the folding unit may further include an elastic support member disposed under the living hinge and configured to be elastically deformable by the external force.

As an example related to the present invention, the first and second bodies may include first and second magnets each having different poles in a region corresponding to the folded state.

As an example related to the present invention, in the folded state, the display unit may overlap the front surface of the body unit.

As an example related to the present invention, the folding unit connects between a first connection part slidably connected to the first body, a second frame fixed to the second body, and the first and second frames, , may include an elastic part made of a plurality of coil springs corresponding to the deformation region.

As an example related to the present invention, the first body includes a movement hole formed so that the first frame is movable, and the first body and the first frame include first and second magnets each having the same pole. may include

As an example related to the present invention, the display unit may include a first area supported by the body unit and a second area separated from the body unit in the unfolded state with respect to the deformable area.

As an example related to the present invention, the body portion may include a main body portion supported by the first region and a sliding body portion mounted to be slidably movable from the main body portion.

As an example related to the present invention, the folding unit has one end connected to the sliding body unit, the other end connected to the display unit, and includes a link unit interlocking with the sliding body unit, and the other end of the link unit is the deformable unit. It may be fixed between the region and the second region.

As an example related to the present invention, the link part is accommodated inside the sliding body part in the folded state, and at least one area is exposed to the outside in the unfolded state, and in the unfolded state, the link part is the main body part and the It may be arranged to achieve a set angle.

As an example related to the present invention, the display unit includes first and second regions separated by the deformable region, and the body unit includes a first body supporting the first region of the display unit, and the second region in the folded state. a second body supporting the second region, and a third body connected to the second body and accommodated in the first body in the folded state, exposed in the unfolded state, and formed to support the second region; can do.

As an example related to the present invention, in the folded state, the second region may be disposed on the rear surface of the body portion, and a spacing groove may be formed between the rear surface and an end of the second region.

As an example related to the present invention, the deformable support part may include a protrusion shape adjacent to the side surface of the display part and arranged along the edge of the first living hinge to be deformable by the external force.

According to the present invention, a folded state can be realized while the display unit forms a curved surface by the folding unit formed to deform one region of the display unit.

It is possible to minimize damage to the display unit during deformation by the living hinge supporting the deformable area of the display unit, and the magnet unit, slide structure and elastic unit included in the deformation unit ensure the safety of switching between the folded state and the unfolded state of the display unit. can improve

1 is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal related to the present invention.
2A to 2C are conceptual diagrams for explaining a foldable mobile terminal;
3A to 3C are conceptual views illustrating a folding unit of a mobile terminal according to an embodiment.
4A to 4D are conceptual views for explaining the structure of a first folding unit of the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 3A;
5A to 5C are conceptual views illustrating a folding unit of a mobile terminal according to an embodiment.
6A to 6C are conceptual views for explaining the structure of the deformable sliding part.
7A to 7B are conceptual diagrams for explaining the structure of a mobile terminal according to another embodiment.
8A and 8B are conceptual views for explaining a third folding unit.
8A is a conceptual diagram illustrating a structure of a third folding unit in an unfolded state;
8B is a conceptual diagram illustrating a state of a deformable part in an unfolded state and a folded state;
9A to 9C are conceptual views illustrating a mobile terminal according to another embodiment.
10A to 10D are conceptual diagrams for explaining a mobile terminal according to another embodiment.
11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a deformable support unit supporting a display unit included in the mobile terminal according to the embodiment of FIG. 10A.
12A to 12C are conceptual diagrams for explaining a mobile terminal according to another embodiment of FIG.
13A and 13B are conceptual views for explaining a driving state of the mobile terminal according to FIG. 12A;

Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the same or similar components are assigned the same reference numbers regardless of reference numerals, and redundant description thereof will be omitted. The suffixes "module" and "part" for components used in the following description are given or mixed in consideration of only the ease of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles by themselves. In addition, in describing the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, if it is determined that detailed descriptions of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification, and the technical idea disclosed herein is not limited by the accompanying drawings, and all changes included in the spirit and scope of the present invention , should be understood to include equivalents or substitutes.

Terms including an ordinal number such as 1st, 2nd, etc. may be used to describe various elements, but the elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

When an element is referred to as being “connected” or “connected” to another element, it is understood that it may be directly connected or connected to the other element, but other elements may exist in between. it should be On the other hand, when it is said that a certain element is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another element, it should be understood that the other element does not exist in the middle.

The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In the present application, terms such as “comprises” or “have” are intended to designate that a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification exists, but one or more other features It should be understood that this does not preclude the existence or addition of numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

The mobile terminal described in this specification includes a mobile phone, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation system, and a slate PC. , tablet PCs, ultrabooks, wearable devices, for example, watch-type terminals (smartwatch), glass-type terminals (smart glass), HMD (head mounted display), etc. may be included. there is.

However, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the configuration according to the embodiment described in this specification may be applied to a fixed terminal such as a digital TV, a desktop computer, a digital signage, etc., except when applicable only to a mobile terminal. will be.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal related to the present invention.

The mobile terminal 1000 includes a wireless communication unit 1100 , an input unit 1200 , an electromagnetic wave generator 1300 , a sensing unit 1400 , an output unit 1500 , an interface unit 1600 , a memory 1700 0 , and a control unit. 1800 and a power supply 1900 may be included. Since the components shown in FIG. 1A are not essential for implementing the mobile terminal, the mobile terminal described in this specification may have more or fewer components than those listed above.

More specifically, among the components, the wireless communication unit 1100 is between the mobile terminal 1000 and the wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal 1000 and another mobile terminal 1000, or between the mobile terminal 1000 and an external server. It may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication between them. In addition, the wireless communication unit 1100 may include one or more modules for connecting the mobile terminal 1000 to one or more networks.

The wireless communication unit 1100 may include at least one of a broadcast reception module 1110 , a mobile communication module 1120 , a wireless Internet module 1130 , a short-range communication module 1140 , and a location information module 1150 . .

The input unit 1200 includes a camera 1210 or image input unit for inputting an image signal, a microphone 122 or an audio input unit for inputting an audio signal, and a user input unit 123 for receiving information from a user, for example, , a touch key, a push key, etc.). The voice data or image data collected by the input unit 1200 may be analyzed and processed as a user's control command.

The electromagnetic wave generator 1300 is a trigger signal for controlling an external device located in a short distance, and generates an electromagnetic wave having straightness. More specifically, the electromagnetic wave generator 1300 generates an electromagnetic wave having a specific frequency under the control of the controller 1800 . That is, the electromagnetic wave generated by the electromagnetic wave generator 1300 may have various frequencies according to the control of the controller 1800 . Meanwhile, the electromagnetic wave may include various data for controlling an external device. More specifically, a request message for requesting information related to an external device or an identification factor for security may be included.

The sensing unit 1400 may include one or more sensors for sensing at least one of information in the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information. For example, the sensing unit 1400 may include a proximity sensor 1410, an illumination sensor 1420, an illumination sensor, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, and gravity. Sensor (G-sensor), gyroscope sensor, motion sensor, RGB sensor, infrared sensor (IR sensor: infrared sensor), fingerprint recognition sensor (finger scan sensor), ultrasonic sensor , optical sensors (eg, cameras (see 1210)), microphones (see 122), battery gauges, environmental sensors (eg, barometers, hygrometers, thermometers, radiation sensors, It may include at least one of a thermal sensor, a gas sensor, etc.) and a chemical sensor (eg, an electronic nose, a healthcare sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.). Meanwhile, the mobile terminal disclosed in the present specification may combine and utilize information sensed by at least two or more of these sensors.

The output unit 1500 is for generating an output related to visual, auditory or tactile sense, and includes at least one of a display unit 1510, a sound output unit 1520, a haptip module 1530, and a light output unit 1540. can do. The display unit 1510 may implement a touch screen by forming a layer structure with the touch sensor or being integrally formed. Such a touch screen may function as a user input unit 1230 that provides an input interface between the mobile terminal 1000 and a user, and may provide an output interface between the mobile terminal 1000 and a user.

The display unit 1510 displays (outputs) information processed by the mobile terminal 1000 . For example, the display unit 1510 may display information on an execution screen of an application program driven in the mobile terminal 1000, or user interface (UI) and graphic user interface (GUI) information according to the information on the execution screen. .

The display unit 1510 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), and a flexible display (flexible display). display), a bendable display, a 3D display, and an e-ink display may include at least one.

In addition, two or more display units 1510 may exist according to an implementation form of the mobile terminal 1000 . In this case, in the mobile terminal 1000 , a plurality of display units 1510 may be spaced apart or disposed integrally on one surface, or may be respectively disposed on different surfaces.

The display unit 1510 may include a touch sensor for sensing a touch on the display unit 1510 so as to receive a control command input by a touch method. Using this, when a touch is made on the display unit 1510 , the touch sensor detects the touch, and the controller 1800 may generate a control command corresponding to the touch based thereon. The content input by the touch method may be letters or numbers, or menu items that can be instructed or designated in various modes.

Meanwhile, the touch sensor is configured in the form of a film having a touch pattern and disposed between the window 1510 ′ and a display (not shown) on the rear surface of the window 1510 ′, or directly patterned on the rear surface of the window 1510 ′. It may be a metal wire that becomes Alternatively, the touch sensor may be formed integrally with the display. For example, the touch sensor may be disposed on a substrate of the display or provided inside the display.

As such, the display unit 1510 may form a touch screen together with the touch sensor, and in this case, the touch screen may function as the user input unit 1230 (refer to FIG. 1A ). In some cases, the touch screen may replace at least some functions of the first operation unit 1230a.

Interface unit 1600 The interface unit 1600 serves as a passage with various types of external devices connected to the mobile terminal 1000 . The interface unit 1600 The interface unit 1600 includes a wired/wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired/wireless data port, a memory card port, and an identification module. It may include at least one of a port for connecting a device to be used, an audio I/O (Input/Output) port, a video I/O (Input/Output) port, and an earphone port. there is. In response to an external device being connected to the interface unit 1600 , the mobile terminal 1000 may perform appropriate control related to the connected external device.

In addition, the memory 170 and the memory 1700 store data supporting various functions of the mobile terminal 1000 . Memory 170 The memory 1700 may store a plurality of application programs (or applications) driven in the mobile terminal 1000 , data for operation of the mobile terminal 1000 , and commands. At least some of these application programs may be downloaded from an external server through wireless communication. In addition, at least some of these application programs may exist on the mobile terminal 1000 from the time of shipment for basic functions (eg, incoming calls, outgoing functions, message reception, and outgoing functions) of the mobile terminal 1000 . Meanwhile, the application program may be stored in the memory 170 and the memory 1700 , installed on the mobile terminal 1000 , and driven to perform an operation (or function) of the mobile terminal by the controller 1800 . .

In addition to the operation related to the application program, the controller 1800 generally controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal 1000 . The control unit 1800 processes signals, data, information, etc. input or output through the above-described components or by driving an application program stored in the memory 170 and the memory 1700 to provide or process information or functions appropriate to the user. can do.

In addition, the controller 1800 may control at least some of the components discussed with reference to FIG. 1A in order to drive an application program stored in the memory 170 and the memory 1700 . Furthermore, in order to drive the application program, the controller 1800 may operate at least two or more of the components included in the mobile terminal 1000 in combination with each other.

Power supply unit 190 The power supply unit 1900 receives external power and internal power under the control of the control unit 1800 to supply power to each component included in the mobile terminal 1000 . The power supply unit 190 and the power supply unit 1900 include a battery, and the battery may be a built-in battery or a replaceable battery.

At least some of the respective components may operate in cooperation with each other in order to implement an operation, control, or control method of a mobile terminal according to various embodiments to be described below. In addition, the operation, control, or control method of the mobile terminal may be implemented on the mobile terminal by driving at least one application program stored in the memory 170 and the memory 1700 .

Hereinafter, before looking at various embodiments implemented through the mobile terminal 1000 as described above, the above-listed components will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1A .

First, referring to the wireless communication unit 1100 , the broadcast reception module 1110 of the wireless communication unit 1100 receives a broadcast signal and/or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel and a terrestrial channel. Two or more of the broadcast reception modules may be provided to the mobile terminal 1000 for simultaneous broadcast reception or broadcast channel switching for at least two broadcast channels.

The mobile communication module 1120 is a technical standard or communication method for mobile communication (eg, Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access (CDMA), Code Division Multi Access 1000 (CDMA1000), EV -Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only (DO), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced, etc.) transmits and receives a radio signal to and from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network constructed according to.

The wireless signal may include various types of data according to transmission/reception of a voice call signal, a video call signal, or a text/multimedia message.

The wireless Internet module 1130 refers to a module for wireless Internet access, and may be built-in or external to the mobile terminal 1000 . The wireless Internet module 1130 is configured to transmit and receive wireless signals in a communication network according to wireless Internet technologies.

As wireless Internet technology, for example, WLAN (Wireless LAN), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) Direct, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), WiBro (Wireless Broadband), WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A), etc., and the wireless Internet module ( 1130) transmits and receives data according to at least one wireless Internet technology within a range including Internet technologies not listed above.

From the point of view that wireless Internet access by WiBro, HSDPA, HSUPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE, LTE-A, etc. is made through a mobile communication network, the wireless Internet module 1130 that performs wireless Internet access through the mobile communication network ) may be understood as a type of the mobile communication module 1120 .

The short-range communication module 1140 is for short-range communication, and includes Bluetooth™, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, NFC. At least one of (Near Field Communication), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless Universal Serial Bus (USB) technologies may be used to support short-range communication. The short-distance communication module 1140 is, between the mobile terminal 1000 and the wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal 1000 and another mobile terminal 1000, or the mobile terminal 1000 through wireless area networks. ) and another mobile terminal (100, or an external server) can support wireless communication between the network located. The local area network may be local area networks (Wireless Personal Area Networks).

Here, the other mobile terminal 1000 is a wearable device capable of exchanging (or interworking) data with the mobile terminal 1000 according to the present invention, for example, a smart watch, smart glasses (smart glass) or HMD (head mounted display)). The short-range communication module 1140 may detect (or recognize) a wearable device capable of communicating with the mobile terminal 1000 in the vicinity of the mobile terminal 1000 . Furthermore, when the detected wearable device is a device authenticated to communicate with the mobile terminal 1000 according to the present invention, the controller 1800 transmits at least a portion of data processed by the mobile terminal 1000 to the short-range communication module ( 1140) to the wearable device. Accordingly, the user of the wearable device may use data processed by the mobile terminal 1000 through the wearable device. For example, according to this, when a call is received in the mobile terminal 1000, the user performs a phone call through the wearable device, or when a message is received in the mobile terminal 1000, the user receives the received call through the wearable device. It is possible to check the message.

The location information module 115 is a module for obtaining a location (or current location) of a mobile terminal, and a representative example thereof includes a Global Positioning System (GPS) module or a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) module. For example, if the mobile terminal utilizes a GPS module, it can acquire the location of the mobile terminal by using a signal transmitted from a GPS satellite. As another example, if the mobile terminal utilizes the Wi-Fi module, the location of the mobile terminal may be obtained based on information of the Wi-Fi module and a wireless access point (AP) that transmits or receives a wireless signal. If necessary, the location information module 115 may perform any function of the other modules of the wireless communication unit 1100 to obtain data on the location of the mobile terminal as a substitute or additionally. The location information module 115 is a module used to obtain the location (or current location) of the mobile terminal, and is not limited to a module that directly calculates or obtains the location of the mobile terminal.

Next, the input unit 1200 is for input of image information (or signal), audio information (or signal), data, or information input from a user. For input of image information, the mobile terminal 1000 is one Alternatively, a plurality of cameras 1210 may be provided. The camera 1210 processes an image frame such as a still image or a moving picture obtained by an image sensor in a video call mode or a photographing mode. The processed image frame may be displayed on the display unit 1510 or stored in the memory 170 and the memory 1700 . On the other hand, the plurality of cameras 1210 provided in the mobile terminal 1000 may be arranged to form a matrix structure, and through the cameras 1210 forming the matrix structure as described above, various angles or focal points are applied to the mobile terminal 1000 . A plurality of image information with can be input. Also, the plurality of cameras 1210 may be arranged in a stereo structure to acquire a left image and a right image for realizing a stereoscopic image.

The microphone 1220 processes an external sound signal as electrical voice data. The processed voice data may be utilized in various ways according to a function (or a running application program) being performed by the mobile terminal 1000 . Meanwhile, various noise removal algorithms for removing noise generated in the process of receiving an external sound signal may be implemented in the microphone 1220 .

The user input unit 1230 is for receiving information from the user, and when information is input through the user input unit 1230, the controller 1800 may control the operation of the mobile terminal 1000 to correspond to the input information. . The user input unit 1230 includes a mechanical input means (or a mechanical key, for example, a button located on the front, rear or side of the mobile terminal 1000, a dome switch, a jog wheel, jog switch, etc.) and a touch input means. As an example, the touch input means consists of a virtual key, a soft key, or a visual key displayed on the touch screen through software processing, or a part other than the touch screen. It may be made of a touch key (touch key) disposed on the. On the other hand, the virtual key or the visual key, it is possible to be displayed on the touch screen while having various forms, for example, graphic (graphic), text (text), icon (icon), video (video) or these can be made by a combination of

Meanwhile, the sensing unit 1400 senses at least one of information in the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information, and generates a corresponding sensing signal. The controller 1800 may control the driving or operation of the mobile terminal 1000 or perform data processing, functions, or operations related to an application program installed in the mobile terminal 1000 based on the sensing signal. Representative sensors among various sensors that may be included in the sensing unit 1400 will be described in more detail.

First, the proximity sensor 1410 refers to a sensor that detects the presence or absence of an object approaching a predetermined detection surface or an object existing in the vicinity without mechanical contact by using the force of an electromagnetic field or infrared rays. The proximity sensor 1410 may be disposed in an inner region of the mobile terminal covered by the touch screen as described above or near the touch screen.

Examples of the proximity sensor 1410 include a transmission type photoelectric sensor, a direct reflection type photoelectric sensor, a mirror reflection type photoelectric sensor, a high frequency oscillation type proximity sensor, a capacitive type proximity sensor, a magnetic type proximity sensor, and an infrared proximity sensor. When the touch screen is capacitive, the proximity sensor 1410 may be configured to detect the proximity of an object having conductivity by a change in an electric field according to the proximity of the object. In this case, the touch screen (or touch sensor) itself may be classified as a proximity sensor.

On the other hand, for convenience of description, the act of approaching an object on the touch screen without contacting it so that the object is recognized that it is located on the touch screen is called “proximity touch”, and the touch The act of actually touching an object on the screen is called "contact touch". The position where the object is touched in proximity on the touch screen means a position where the object is perpendicular to the touch screen when the object is touched in proximity. The proximity sensor 1410 may detect a proximity touch and a proximity touch pattern (eg, proximity touch distance, proximity touch direction, proximity touch speed, proximity touch time, proximity touch position, proximity touch movement state, etc.) there is. Meanwhile, the controller 1800 processes data (or information) corresponding to the proximity touch operation and the proximity touch pattern detected through the proximity sensor 1410 as described above, and furthermore, provides visual information corresponding to the processed data. It can be printed on the touch screen. Furthermore, the controller 1800 may control the mobile terminal 1000 to process different operations or data (or information) according to whether a touch to the same point on the touch screen is a proximity touch or a contact touch. .

The touch sensor receives a touch (or touch input) applied to the touch screen (or the display unit 1510) using at least one of various touch methods such as a resistive film method, a capacitive method, an infrared method, an ultrasonic method, and a magnetic field method. detect

As an example, the touch sensor may be configured to convert a change in pressure applied to a specific part of the touch screen or a change in capacitance occurring in a specific part of the touch screen into an electrical input signal. The touch sensor may be configured to detect a position, an area, a pressure at the time of touch, capacitance at the time of touch, etc. where a touch object applying a touch on the touch screen is touched on the touch sensor. Here, the touch object is an object that applies a touch to the touch sensor, and may be, for example, a finger, a touch pen or a stylus pen, a pointer, or the like.

As such, when there is a touch input to the touch sensor, a signal(s) corresponding thereto is sent to the touch controller. The touch controller processes the signal(s) and then transmits corresponding data to the controller 1800 . Accordingly, the control unit 1800 can know which area of the display unit 1510 has been touched, and the like. Here, the touch controller may be a component separate from the controller 1800 , or may be the controller 1800 itself.

Meanwhile, the controller 1800 may perform different controls or may perform the same control according to the type of the touch object that touches the touch screen (or a touch key provided in addition to the touch screen). Whether to perform different controls or the same control according to the type of the touch object may be determined according to the current operating state of the mobile terminal 1000 or a running application program.

Meanwhile, the touch sensor may be formed to sense a touch input using different methods in the activated and deactivated states of the display unit 1510 . In this case, the different methods may be related to the activation period of the touch sensor. More specifically, the touch sensor may be activated at different intervals depending on whether the display unit 1510 is activated. That is, the touch sensor may sense a touch input applied to the touch sensor while having different activation cycles depending on whether the display unit 1510 is activated.

For example, in a state in which the display unit 1510 is inactivated, the touch sensor may be activated at a preset specific period. In this case, the specific period may be a period corresponding to a time greater than zero. In addition, when the display unit 1510 is activated, the touch sensor may always be operated in an activated state. That is, in this case, the activation period of the touch sensor may be zero or a period having a time very close to zero.

Whether or not the touch sensor is activated can be identified using the power consumption of the touch sensor. For example, if the power consumption of the touch sensor is less than a preset reference value based on 0, the touch sensor is in an inactive state, and if the power consumption of the touch sensor exceeds the preset reference value based on 0 , can be said to be active.

When the display unit 1510 is in an active state (hereinafter referred to as an 'active mode'), the touch sensor continuously maintains an active state and waits for application of a touch input to the display unit 1510. there is. Contrary to this, when the display unit 1510 is in an inactive state (dose mode, hereinafter referred to as a 'dose mode'), the touch sensor may be activated every preset specific period.

On the other hand, the shorter the specific period during which the touch sensor is activated, the faster the speed of detecting a touch input tapping the display unit 1510 , but power consumed by the touch sensor may increase accordingly. Conversely, as the period during which the touch sensor is activated increases, power consumed by the touch sensor decreases, but the speed at which a touch input for tapping the display unit 1510 is detected may be slow.

Accordingly, the specific period may be set to increase the efficiency of power consumption while the detection speed is so fast that the user does not recognize the touch input for tapping the display unit 1510 . For example, a specific period may be set such that the touch sensor is deactivated and activated about 20 times (1 Hz) per second.

Meanwhile, while the display unit 1510 is in an activated state, the touch sensor may also be activated, and in the activated state, the activation period T of the touch sensor may be 0 or very close to 0. Alternatively, in the state in which the touch sensor is activated, the period of the touch sensor may be several times shorter than a specific period in which the touch sensor is activated in a state in which the display unit 1510 is inactive. That is, the touch sensor may be activated at different intervals depending on whether the display unit 1510 is activated.

On the other hand, in a doze mode in which the display unit 1510 is deactivated and the touch sensor is periodically activated, a touch input preset by the touch sensor (eg, continuously tapping a predetermined area within a reference time) is performed. When the first and second touch inputs) are detected, the controller 1800 may switch the doze mode to an active mode in which the display unit 1510 and the touch sensor are activated.

In addition, the touch sensor may be driven at different intervals based on the state of the display unit 1510 . For example, when the display unit 1510 is in the closed state, the doze mode may be executed, and when the display unit 1510 is switched from the closed state to the open state, the active mode may be executed.

On the other hand, the above-described touch sensor and proximity sensor independently or in combination, a short (or touch input) touch (short touch), long touch (long touch), multi-touch (multi touch), drag touch (drag) to the touch screen touch), flick touch, pinch-in touch, pinch-out touch, swype touch, hovering touch, etc. touch can be sensed.

The ultrasonic sensor may recognize position information of a sensing target by using ultrasonic waves. Meanwhile, the controller 1800 may calculate the position of the wave source through information sensed by the optical sensor and the plurality of ultrasonic sensors. The position of the wave source may be calculated using the property that light is much faster than ultrasonic waves, that is, the time at which light arrives at the optical sensor is much faster than the time at which ultrasonic waves reach the ultrasonic sensor. More specifically, the position of the wave source may be calculated using a time difference from the time that the ultrasonic wave arrives using light as a reference signal.

On the other hand, the camera 1210 as seen in the configuration of the input unit 1200 includes at least one of a camera sensor (eg, CCD, CMOS, etc.), a photo sensor (or an image sensor), and a laser sensor.

The camera 1210 and the laser sensor may be combined with each other to detect a touch of a sensing target for a 3D stereoscopic image. The photo sensor may be stacked on the display device, and the photo sensor is configured to scan the motion of the sensing target close to the touch screen. More specifically, the photo sensor mounts photo diodes and transistors (TRs) in rows/columns and scans the contents placed on the photo sensors using electrical signals that change according to the amount of light applied to the photo diodes. That is, the photo sensor calculates the coordinates of the sensing target according to the amount of change in light, and through this, location information of the sensing target can be obtained.

Meanwhile, the camera 1210 includes at least one of a first camera 1210a formed on the front surface of the mobile terminal body and a second camera 1210b formed on the rear surface of the mobile terminal.

The first camera 1210a processes an image frame of a still image or a moving image obtained by an image sensor in a shooting mode or a video call mode. The processed image frame may be displayed on the display unit 1510 and stored in the memory 1700 .

The second camera 1210b may include a plurality of lenses arranged along at least one line. The plurality of lenses may be arranged in a matrix form. Such a camera may be referred to as an 'array camera'. When the second camera 1210b is configured as an array camera, images may be captured in various ways using a plurality of lenses, and images of better quality may be obtained.

A flash (not shown) may be disposed adjacent to the second camera 1210b. A flash (not shown) illuminates light toward the subject when the subject is photographed by the second camera 1210b.

Also, the electromagnetic wave generator (not shown) may be disposed adjacent to the second camera 1210b. The electromagnetic wave generator (not shown) radiates the generated electromagnetic wave when the second camera 1210b is activated.

The display unit 1510 displays (outputs) information processed by the mobile terminal 1000 . For example, the display unit 1510 may display information on an execution screen of an application program driven in the mobile terminal 1000, or user interface (UI) and graphic user interface (GUI) information according to the information on the execution screen. .

Also, the display unit 1510 may be configured as a stereoscopic display unit 1510 that displays a stereoscopic image.

A three-dimensional display method such as a stereoscopic method (glasses method), an auto stereoscopic method (glassesless method), or a projection method (holographic method) may be applied to the stereoscopic display unit 1510 .

The sound output unit 1520 may output audio data received from the wireless communication unit 1100 or stored in the memory 1700 in a call signal reception, a call mode or a recording mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcast reception mode, and the like. The sound output unit 1520 also outputs a sound signal related to a function (eg, a call signal reception sound, a message reception sound, etc.) performed in the mobile terminal 1000 . The sound output unit 1520 may include a receiver, a speaker, a buzzer, and the like.

The sound output unit 1520 includes at least one of a first sound output unit 1520a and a second sound output unit 1520b. The first sound output unit 1520a may be implemented as a receiver that transmits a call sound to the user's ear, and the second sound output unit 1520b is a loudspeaker that outputs various alarm sounds or multimedia reproduction sounds. ) can be implemented in the form of

The haptic module 1530 generates various tactile effects that the user can feel. A representative example of the tactile effect generated by the haptic module 1530 may be vibration. The intensity and pattern of vibration generated by the haptic module 1530 may be controlled by a user's selection or setting of the controller. For example, the haptic module 1530 may synthesize and output different vibrations or output them sequentially.

In addition to vibration, the haptic module 1530 is a pin arrangement that moves vertically with respect to the contact skin surface, the blowing force or suction force of air through the nozzle or suction port, the rubbing against the skin surface, contact with the electrode, electrostatic force, etc. Various tactile effects can be generated, such as the effect of heat absorption and the effect of reproducing a feeling of coolness and warmth using an element capable of absorbing heat or generating heat.

The haptic module 1530 may not only deliver a tactile effect through direct contact, but may also be implemented so that the user can feel the tactile effect through a muscle sense such as a finger or arm. Two or more haptic modules 1530 may be provided according to the configuration of the mobile terminal 1000 .

The light output unit 1540 outputs a signal for notifying the occurrence of an event by using the light of the light source of the mobile terminal 1000 . Examples of the event generated in the mobile terminal 1000 may be user authentication success/failure, message reception, call signal reception, missed call, alarm, schedule notification, e-mail reception, information reception through an application, and the like. When the user's event confirmation is detected, the controller 1800 may control the light output unit 1540 to end the light output.

The signal output from the optical output unit 1540 is implemented as the mobile terminal emits light of a single color or a plurality of colors toward the front or rear. The signal output may be terminated when the mobile terminal detects the user's event confirmation.

Interface unit 1600 The interface unit 1600 serves as a passage with all external devices connected to the mobile terminal 1000 . Interface unit 1600 The interface unit 1600 receives data from an external device, receives power and transmits it to each component inside the mobile terminal 1000 , or transmits data inside the mobile terminal 1000 to an external device. make it possible For example, a wired/wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired/wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device equipped with an identification module (port), audio I/O (Input/Output) port (port), video I/O (Input/Output) port (port), earphone port (port), etc. to the interface unit 1600 interface unit 1600 may be included.

On the other hand, the identification module is a chip storing various information for authenticating the use authority of the mobile terminal 1000, a user identification module (UIM), subscriber identity module (subscriber identity module; SIM), universal user authentication It may include a universal subscriber identity module (USIM) and the like. A device equipped with an identification module (hereinafter, 'identification device') may be manufactured in the form of a smart card. Accordingly, the identification device may be connected to the mobile terminal 1000 through the interface unit 1600 and the interface unit 1600 .

In addition, when the mobile terminal 1000 is connected to an external cradle, the interface unit 1600 is a passage through which power from the cradle is supplied to the mobile terminal 1000, or by a user. Various command signals input from the cradle may be a passage through which the mobile terminal 1000 is transmitted. Various command signals or the power input from the cradle may be operated as signals for recognizing that the mobile terminal 1000 is correctly mounted on the cradle.

The memory 1700 may store a program for the operation of the controller 1800 , and may temporarily store input/output data (eg, a phone book, a message, a still image, a moving image, etc.). The memory 1700 may store data related to vibrations and sounds of various patterns output when a touch input is performed on the touch screen.

The memory 1700 is a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a solid state disk type (SSD), a silicon disk drive type (SDD), and a multimedia card micro type. ), card-type memory (such as SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read (EEPROM) -only memory), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk may include at least one type of storage medium. The mobile terminal 1000 may be operated in relation to a web storage that performs a storage function of the memory 1700 on the Internet.

Meanwhile, as described above, the controller 1800 controls the operation related to the application program and the general operation of the mobile terminal 1000 . For example, if the state of the mobile terminal satisfies a set condition, the controller 1800 may execute or release a lock state that restricts input of a user's control command to applications.

In addition, the controller 1800 performs control and processing related to voice calls, data communication, video calls, etc., or performs pattern recognition processing capable of recognizing handwriting input or drawing input performed on the touch screen as characters and images, respectively. can Furthermore, in order to implement various embodiments described below on the mobile terminal 1000 according to the present invention, the control unit 1800 may control any one or a combination of any one or more of the above-described components.

The power supply unit 1900 receives external power and internal power under the control of the control unit 1800 and supplies power required for operation of each component. The power supply 1900 includes a battery, and the battery may be a built-in battery configured to be rechargeable, and may be detachably coupled to the body of the mobile terminal for charging or the like.

In addition, the power supply unit 1900 may include a connection port, and the connection port may be configured as an example of the interface 160 to which an external charger that supplies power for charging the battery is electrically connected.

As another example, the power supply 1900 may be configured to charge the battery in a wireless manner without using the connection port. In this case, the power supply 1900 uses one or more of an inductive coupling method based on a magnetic induction phenomenon or a resonance coupling method based on an electromagnetic resonance phenomenon from an external wireless power transmitter. power can be transmitted.

An accessory for protecting the appearance of the mobile terminal 1000 or supporting or extending a function of the mobile terminal 1000 may be added. As an example of such an accessory, there may be a cover or a pouch that covers or accommodates at least one surface of the mobile terminal 1000 . The cover or pouch may be configured to extend the function of the mobile terminal 1000 by interworking with the display unit 1510 . As another example of the accessory, there may be a touch pen for assisting or extending a touch input to a touch screen.

Meanwhile, various embodiments below may be implemented in a computer-readable recording medium using, for example, software, hardware, or a combination thereof.

2A to 2C are conceptual diagrams for explaining a foldable mobile terminal.

The mobile terminal described in this specification includes a mobile phone, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation system, and a slate PC. , tablet PCs, ultrabooks, wearable devices, for example, watch-type terminals (smartwatch), glass-type terminals (smart glass), HMD (head mounted display), etc. may be included. there is.

However, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the configuration according to the embodiment described in this specification may be applied to a fixed terminal such as a digital TV, a desktop computer, and a digital signage, except when applicable only to a mobile terminal. will be.

1A to 1C, FIG. 1A is a block diagram illustrating a mobile terminal related to the present invention, and FIGS. 1B and 1C are conceptual views of an example of the mobile terminal related to the present invention viewed from different directions.

The mobile terminal 1000 includes a wireless communication unit 110 , an input unit 1200 , a sensing unit 140 , an output unit 150 , an interface unit 1600 , a memory 170 , a control unit 180 , and a power supply unit 190 . ) and the like. The components shown in FIG. 1A are not essential for implementing the mobile terminal, and thus the mobile terminal described in this specification may have more or fewer components than those listed above.

More specifically, among the above components, the wireless communication unit 110 is between the mobile terminal 1000 and the wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal 1000 and another mobile terminal 1000 , or between the mobile terminal 1000 and an external server. It may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication between them. In addition, the wireless communication unit 110 may include one or more modules for connecting the mobile terminal 1000 to one or more networks.

The wireless communication unit 110 may include at least one of a broadcast reception module 1110 , a mobile communication module 112 , a wireless Internet module 113 , a short-range communication module 114 , and a location information module 115 . .

The input unit 1200 includes a camera 1210 or image input unit for inputting an image signal, a microphone 122 or an audio input unit for inputting an audio signal, and a user input unit 123 for receiving information from a user, for example, , a touch key, a push key, etc.). The voice data or image data collected by the input unit 1200 may be analyzed and processed as a user's control command.

The sensing unit 140 may include one or more sensors for sensing at least one of information in the mobile terminal, surrounding environment information surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information. For example, the sensing unit 140 may include a proximity sensor 141, an illumination sensor 142, an illumination sensor, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, and gravity. Sensor (G-sensor), gyroscope sensor, motion sensor, RGB sensor, infrared sensor (IR sensor: infrared sensor), fingerprint recognition sensor (finger scan sensor), ultrasonic sensor , optical sensors (eg, cameras (see 1210)), microphones (see 122), battery gauges, environmental sensors (eg, barometers, hygrometers, thermometers, radiation sensors, It may include at least one of a thermal sensor, a gas sensor, etc.) and a chemical sensor (eg, an electronic nose, a healthcare sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.). Meanwhile, the mobile terminal disclosed in the present specification may combine and utilize information sensed by at least two or more of these sensors.

The output unit 150 is for generating an output related to visual, auditory or tactile sense, and includes at least one of a display unit 1510 , a sound output unit 152 , a haptip module 1530 , and an optical output unit 1540 . can do. The display unit 1510 may implement a touch screen by forming a layer structure with the touch sensor or being integrally formed. Such a touch screen may function as the user input unit 123 providing an input interface between the mobile terminal 1000 and the user, and may provide an output interface between the mobile terminal 1000 and the user.

The interface unit 1600 serves as a passage with various types of external devices connected to the mobile terminal 1000 . The interface unit 1600 connects a device equipped with a wired/wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired/wireless data port, a memory card port, and an identification module. It may include at least one of a port, an audio input/output (I/O) port, a video input/output (I/O) port, and an earphone port. In response to the connection of the external device to the interface unit 1600 , the mobile terminal 1000 may perform appropriate control related to the connected external device.

In addition, the memory 170 stores data supporting various functions of the mobile terminal 1000 . The memory 170 may store a plurality of application programs (or applications) driven in the mobile terminal 1000 , data for operation of the mobile terminal 1000 , and commands. At least some of these application programs may be downloaded from an external server through wireless communication. In addition, at least some of these application programs may exist on the mobile terminal 1000 from the time of shipment for basic functions (eg, incoming calls, outgoing functions, message reception, and outgoing functions) of the mobile terminal 1000 . Meanwhile, the application program may be stored in the memory 170 , installed on the mobile terminal 1000 , and driven to perform an operation (or function) of the mobile terminal by the controller 180 .

In addition to the operation related to the application program, the controller 180 generally controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal 1000 . The controller 180 may provide or process appropriate information or functions to the user by processing signals, data, information, etc. input or output through the above-described components or by driving an application program stored in the memory 170 .

In addition, the controller 180 may control at least some of the components discussed with reference to FIG. 1A in order to drive an application program stored in the memory 170 . Furthermore, in order to drive the application program, the controller 180 may operate at least two or more of the components included in the mobile terminal 1000 in combination with each other.

The power supply unit 190 receives external power and internal power under the control of the control unit 180 to supply power to each component included in the mobile terminal 1000 . The power supply unit 190 includes a battery, and the battery may be a built-in battery or a replaceable battery.

At least some of the respective components may operate cooperatively with each other in order to implement an operation, control, or control method of a mobile terminal according to various embodiments to be described below. In addition, the operation, control, or control method of the mobile terminal may be implemented on the mobile terminal by driving at least one application program stored in the memory 170 .

1B and 1C , the disclosed mobile terminal 1000 has a bar-shaped terminal body. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and may be applied to various structures such as a watch type, a clip type, a glass type, or a folder type in which two or more bodies are coupled to be relatively movable, a flip type, a slide type, a swing type, a swivel type, etc. . Although it will relate to a particular type of mobile terminal, descriptions regarding a particular type of mobile terminal are generally applicable to other types of mobile terminals.

Here, the terminal body may be understood as a concept referring to the mobile terminal 1000 as at least one aggregate.

The mobile terminal 1000 includes a case (eg, a frame, a housing, a cover, etc.) forming an exterior. As shown, the mobile terminal 1000 may include a front case 1010 and a rear case 1020 . Various electronic components are disposed in the inner space formed by the combination of the front case 1010 and the rear case 1020 . At least one middle case may be additionally disposed between the front case 1010 and the rear case 1020 .

A display unit 1510 is disposed on the front surface of the terminal body to output information. As illustrated, the window 1510 ′ of the display unit 1510 may be mounted on the front case 1010 to form a front surface of the terminal body together with the front case 1010 .

In some cases, an electronic component may also be mounted on the rear case 1020 . Electronic components mountable to the rear case 1020 include a removable battery, an identification module, a memory card, and the like. In this case, a rear cover 1030 for covering the mounted electronic component may be detachably coupled to the rear case 1020 . Accordingly, when the rear cover 1030 is separated from the rear case 1020 , the electronic components mounted on the rear case 1020 are exposed to the outside.

As shown, when the rear cover 1030 is coupled to the rear case 1020, a portion of the side of the rear case 1020 may be exposed. In some cases, when combined, the rear case 1020 may be completely covered by the rear cover 1030 . On the other hand, the rear cover 1030 may be provided with an opening for exposing the camera (121b) or the sound output unit (152b) to the outside.

These cases 101 , 102 , 103 may be formed by injection of synthetic resin or may be formed of metal, for example, stainless steel (STS), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), or the like.

Unlike the above example in which a plurality of cases provide an internal space for accommodating various electronic components, the mobile terminal 1000 may be configured such that one case provides the internal space. In this case, the mobile terminal 1000 of a uni-body in which synthetic resin or metal is connected from the side to the rear can be implemented.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 1000 may include a waterproofing unit (not shown) that prevents water from permeating into the terminal body. For example, the waterproof part is provided between the window 1510' and the front case 1010, between the front case 1010 and the rear case 1020, or between the rear case 1020 and the rear cover 1030, and their It may include a waterproofing member for sealing the inner space when combined.

The mobile terminal 1000 includes a display unit 1510 , first and second sound output units 152a and 152b , a proximity sensor 141 , an illuminance sensor 142 , a light output unit 1540 , and first and second audio outputs. Cameras 121a and 121b, first and second operation units 123a and 123b, a microphone 1220, an interface unit 1600, and the like may be provided.

Hereinafter, as shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C , the display unit 1510, the first sound output unit 1520a, the proximity sensor 141, the illuminance sensor 142, and the light output unit ( 1540), the first camera 1210a and the first operation unit 123a are disposed, the second operation unit 123b, the microphone 1220 and the interface unit 1600 are disposed on the side of the terminal body, the terminal body The mobile terminal 1000 in which the second sound output unit 1520b and the second camera 1210b are disposed on the rear side of the device will be described as an example.

However, these configurations are not limited to this arrangement. These components may be excluded or replaced as necessary, or may be disposed on different sides. For example, the first operation unit 123a may not be provided on the front surface of the terminal body, and the second sound output unit 1520b may be provided on the side surface of the terminal body rather than the rear surface of the terminal body.

The display unit 1510 displays (outputs) information processed by the mobile terminal 1000 . For example, the display unit 1510 may display information on an execution screen of an application program driven in the mobile terminal 1000, or user interface (UI) and graphic user interface (GUI) information according to the information on the execution screen. .

The display unit 1510 includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), and a flexible display (flexible display). display), a three-dimensional display (3D display), and an electronic ink display (e-ink display) may include at least one.

In addition, two or more display units 1510 may exist according to an implementation form of the mobile terminal 1000 . In this case, in the mobile terminal 1000 , a plurality of display units may be spaced apart from each other or disposed integrally on one surface, or may be respectively disposed on different surfaces.

The display unit 1510 may include a touch sensor for sensing a touch on the display unit 1510 so as to receive a control command input by a touch method. Using this, when a touch is made to the display unit 1510 , the touch sensor detects the touch, and the controller 180 may generate a control command corresponding to the touch based thereon. The content input by the touch method may be letters or numbers, or menu items that can be instructed or designated in various modes.

Meanwhile, the touch sensor is configured in the form of a film having a touch pattern and disposed between the window 1510 ′ and a display (not shown) on the rear surface of the window 1510 ′, or directly patterned on the rear surface of the window 1510 ′. It may be a metal wire that becomes Alternatively, the touch sensor may be formed integrally with the display. For example, the touch sensor may be disposed on a substrate of the display or provided inside the display.

As such, the display unit 1510 may form a touch screen together with the touch sensor, and in this case, the touch screen may function as the user input unit 123 (refer to FIG. 1A ). In some cases, the touch screen may replace at least some functions of the first operation unit 1230a.

The first sound output unit 1520a may be implemented as a receiver that transmits a call sound to the user's ear, and the second sound output unit 1520b is a loudspeaker that outputs various alarm sounds or multimedia reproduction sounds. ) can be implemented in the form of

A sound hole for emitting sound generated from the first sound output unit 1520a may be formed in the window 1510 ′ of the display unit 1510 . However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the sound may be configured to be emitted along an assembly gap between structures (eg, a gap between the window 1510 ′ and the front case 1010 ). In this case, the appearance of the mobile terminal 1000 may be simplified because the hole formed independently for sound output is not visible or hidden.

The light output unit 1540 is configured to output light to notify the occurrence of an event. Examples of the event include message reception, call signal reception, missed call, alarm, schedule notification, email reception, and information reception through an application. When the user's event confirmation is detected, the controller 180 may control the light output unit 1540 to end the light output.

The first camera 1210a processes an image frame of a still image or a moving image obtained by an image sensor in a shooting mode or a video call mode. The processed image frame may be displayed on the display unit 1510 and stored in the memory 170 .

The first and second manipulation units 123a and 123b are an example of the user input unit 123 operated to receive a command for controlling the operation of the mobile terminal 1000, and may be collectively referred to as a manipulating portion. there is. The first and second operation units 123a and 123b may be employed in any manner as long as they are operated in a tactile manner such as touch, push, scroll, and the like while the user receives a tactile feeling. In addition, the first and second manipulation units 123a and 123b may be operated in a manner in which the user is operated without a tactile feeling through a proximity touch, a hovering touch, or the like.

In this drawing, the first operation unit 123a is exemplified as a touch key, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first operation unit 123a may be a push key (mechanical key) or may be configured as a combination of a touch key and a push key.

The contents input by the first and second operation units 123a and 123b may be variously set. For example, the first operation unit 123a receives commands such as menu, home key, cancel, search, etc., and the second operation unit 123b is output from the first or second sound output units 152a and 152b. It is possible to receive a command such as adjusting the volume of the sound and switching to the touch recognition mode of the display unit 1510 .

Meanwhile, as another example of the user input unit 123, a rear input unit (not shown) may be provided on the rear surface of the terminal body. The rear input unit is manipulated to receive a command for controlling the operation of the mobile terminal 1000 , and input contents may be variously set. For example, a command such as power on/off, start, end, scroll, etc., control of the sound output from the first and second sound output units 152a and 152b, and a touch recognition mode of the display unit 1510 You can receive commands such as switching of The rear input unit may be implemented in a form capable of input by a touch input, a push input, or a combination thereof.

The rear input unit may be disposed to overlap the display unit 1510 on the front side in the thickness direction of the terminal body. For example, the rear input unit may be disposed on the upper rear portion of the terminal body so that the user can easily manipulate the terminal body using the index finger when holding the terminal body with one hand. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and the position of the rear input unit may be changed.

As such, when the rear input unit is provided on the rear surface of the terminal body, a new type of user interface using the same can be implemented. In addition, when the aforementioned touch screen or rear input unit replaces at least some functions of the first operation unit 123a provided on the front surface of the terminal body, the first operation unit 123a is not disposed on the front surface of the terminal body, The display unit 1510 may be configured as a larger screen.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 1000 may be provided with a fingerprint recognition sensor for recognizing a user's fingerprint, and the controller 180 may use fingerprint information detected through the fingerprint recognition sensor as an authentication means. The fingerprint recognition sensor may be built in the display unit 1510 or the user input unit 123 .

The microphone 1220 is configured to receive a user's voice, other sounds, and the like. The microphone 1220 may be provided at a plurality of locations and configured to receive stereo sound.

The interface unit 1600 serves as a passage through which the mobile terminal 1000 can be connected to an external device. For example, the interface unit 1600 includes a connection terminal for connection with another device (eg, earphone, external speaker), a port for short-distance communication (eg, an infrared port (IrDA Port), a Bluetooth port (Bluetooth) Port), a wireless LAN port, etc.], or at least one of a power supply terminal for supplying power to the mobile terminal 1000 . The interface unit 1600 may be implemented in the form of a socket for accommodating an external card such as a subscriber identification module (SIM), a user identity module (UIM), or a memory card for information storage.

A second camera 1210b may be disposed on the rear side of the terminal body. In this case, the second camera 1210b has a photographing direction substantially opposite to that of the first camera 1210a.

The second camera 1210b may include a plurality of lenses arranged along at least one line. The plurality of lenses may be arranged in a matrix form. Such a camera may be referred to as an 'array camera'. When the second camera 1210b is configured as an array camera, images may be captured in various ways using a plurality of lenses, and images of better quality may be obtained.

The flash 124 may be disposed adjacent to the second camera 1210b. When a subject is photographed by the second camera 1210b, the flash 124 illuminates light toward the subject.

A second sound output unit 1520b may be additionally disposed on the terminal body. The second sound output unit 1520b may implement a stereo function together with the first sound output unit 1520a, and may be used to implement a speakerphone mode during a call.

At least one antenna for wireless communication may be provided in the terminal body. The antenna may be built into the terminal body or formed in the case. For example, an antenna forming a part of the broadcast reception module 1110 (refer to FIG. 1A ) may be configured to be withdrawable from the terminal body. Alternatively, the antenna may be formed in a film type and attached to the inner surface of the rear cover 1030 , or a case including a conductive material may be configured to function as an antenna.

A power supply unit 190 (refer to FIG. 1A ) for supplying power to the mobile terminal 1000 is provided in the terminal body. The power supply unit 190 may include a battery 1910 built into the terminal body or detachably configured from the outside of the terminal body.

The battery 1910 may be configured to receive power through a power cable connected to the interface unit 1600 . Also, the battery 1910 may be configured to be wirelessly charged through a wireless charging device. The wireless charging may be implemented by a magnetic induction method or a resonance method (magnetic resonance method).

On the other hand, in this figure, the rear cover 1030 is coupled to the rear case 1020 to cover the battery 1910 to limit the detachment of the battery 1910, and to protect the battery 1910 from external shocks and foreign substances. is foreshadowing When the battery 1910 is configured to be detachably attached to the terminal body, the rear cover 1030 may be detachably coupled to the rear case 1020 .

An accessory for protecting the appearance of the mobile terminal 1000 or supporting or extending a function of the mobile terminal 1000 may be added. As an example of such an accessory, there may be a cover or a pouch that covers or accommodates at least one surface of the mobile terminal 1000 . The cover or pouch may be configured to extend the function of the mobile terminal 1000 by interworking with the display unit 1510 . As another example of the accessory, there may be a touch pen for assisting or extending a touch input to a touch screen.

A mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a flexible display unit 1510 that is deformable by an external force. The display unit 1510 according to the present invention may be configured to be deformable by an external force. The deformation may be at least one of bending, bending, folding, twisting, and curling of the display unit 1510 . Such a deformable display unit 1510 may be referred to as a 'flexible display unit'. Here, the flexible display unit 1510 may include both a general flexible display, e-paper, and a combination thereof.

A general flexible display refers to a durable display that is not easily broken because it is manufactured on a thin and flexible substrate that can be bent, bent, folded, twisted, or curled like paper while maintaining the characteristics of a conventional flat panel display.

In addition, electronic paper is a display technology to which the characteristics of general ink are applied, and may differ from the conventional flat panel display in that it uses reflected light. Electronic paper can change information by using a twisted ball or by using electrophoresis using a capsule.

In a state in which the flexible display unit 1510 is not deformed (eg, a state having an infinite radius of curvature, hereinafter referred to as a first state), the display area of the flexible display unit 1510 becomes a flat surface. In a state deformed by an external force from the first state (eg, a state having a finite radius of curvature, hereinafter referred to as a second state), the display area may be a curved surface. As shown, the information displayed in the second state may be visual information output on the curved surface. Such visual information is implemented by independently controlling the emission of sub-pixels arranged in a matrix form. The unit pixel means a minimum unit for realizing one color.

The flexible display unit 1510 may be placed in a curved state (eg, vertically or horizontally curved) rather than a flat state in the first state. In this case, when an external force is applied to the flexible display unit 1510 , the flexible display unit 1510 may be deformed into a flat state (or less curved) or more curved.

Meanwhile, the flexible display unit 1510 may be combined with a touch sensor to implement a flexible touch screen. When a touch is made to the flexible touch screen, the controller 1800 (refer to FIG. 1A ) may perform a control corresponding to the touch input. The flexible touch screen may be configured to sense a touch input not only in the first state but also in the second state.

On the other hand, the mobile terminal 1000 according to the present modified example may be provided with a deformation detecting means for detecting the deformation of the flexible display unit 1510 . Such deformation detecting means may be included in the sensing unit 1400 (refer to FIG. 1A ).

The deformation detecting means may be provided in the flexible display unit 1510 or the case to detect information related to deformation of the flexible display unit 1510 . Here, the deformation-related information may be a direction in which the flexible display unit 1510 is deformed, a deformed degree, a deformed position, a deformed time, and an acceleration at which the deformed flexible display unit 1510 is restored. In addition, the flexible display unit 1510 may be various types of information detectable due to bending.

In addition, the control unit 1800 may change information displayed on the flexible display unit 1510 or the mobile terminal 1000 based on information related to deformation of the flexible display unit 1510 sensed by the deformation detecting means. It is possible to generate a control signal to control the function of

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 1000 according to the present modification may include a case for accommodating the flexible display unit 1510 . The case may be configured to be deformable together with the flexible display unit 1510 by an external force in consideration of the characteristics of the flexible display unit 1510 .

In addition, a battery (not shown) included in the mobile terminal 1000 may also be configured to be deformable together with the flexible display unit 1510 by an external force in consideration of the characteristics of the flexible display unit 1510 . In order to implement the battery, a stack and folding method in which battery cells are stacked upward may be applied.

The state transformation of the flexible display unit 1510 is not limited only to an external force. For example, when the flexible display unit 1510 has a first state, it may be transformed into a second state by a command of a user or an application.

Referring to FIG. 2B , the mobile terminal 1000 according to an embodiment may be folded such that the display unit 1510 is exposed to the outside. In this case, the center of the curvature of the display unit 1510 is formed in the rear region of the display unit. When a surface on which the display unit is formed of the body of the mobile terminal 1000 is defined as a front surface and a surface facing the front surface is defined as a rear surface, the folded end of the body of the mobile terminal 1000 may be fixed to the rear surface.

Referring to FIG. 2C , the mobile terminal 1000 according to an embodiment may be folded so as to be formed inside an area of the display unit 1510 . In this case, the center of the curvature of the display unit 1510 is formed in the front area of the display unit.

The mobile terminal according to the present invention is implemented to be folded in any one of the front and rear directions as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C. Hereinafter, a detailed structure for enabling the display unit 1510 to be folded will be described.

3A to 3C are conceptual views illustrating a folding unit of a mobile terminal according to an embodiment. 3A and 3B are conceptual views of the mobile terminal 1000 viewed from different directions in a closed state, and FIG. 3C is a conceptual view of the mobile terminal 1000 viewed from the side in an open state.

The mobile terminal according to the present embodiment includes a first folding unit 100 in which the display unit 1510 is mounted on the front surface of the body unit, and the display unit 1510 is formed to be folded in front of the display unit 1510 . be prepared The body portion of the mobile terminal 1000 includes a first region 1001 , a second region 1002 , and a deformable region 1040 . The deformable region 1040 corresponds to a preset deformable region ( ) of the display unit 1510 . The deformation region 1040 is formed to form a curved surface or a flat surface by an external force.

The body portion according to the present embodiment includes a front case 1010 and the rear cover 1030 supporting the display unit 1510, and the front case 1010 and the rear cover 1030 include the first and It is separated into second regions 1001 and 1002, respectively. The front case 1010 includes first and second members disposed to form a separation space corresponding to the deformation region 1040 , and the rear cover 1030 is spaced apart corresponding to the deformation region 1040 . It consists of first and second members disposed to form a space. The first folding unit 100 is mounted on the deformation region 1040 to change the angle between the first and second regions 1001 and 1002 .

One area of the first folding unit 100 is exposed by the front case 1010 and the rear cover 1030 . Accordingly, the deformable region 1040 has a recessed structure than the front case 1010 and the rear cover 1030 . The first folding module 100 is disposed adjacent to the lower surface of the display unit 1510 and is deformed to form a flat surface and a curved surface by an external force. Hereinafter, a detailed structure of the first folding unit 100 will be described.

4A to 4D are conceptual diagrams for explaining the structure of a first folding unit of the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 3A. The first folding unit 100 includes a deformable support unit 140 , a deformable slide unit 130 , and first and second frames 110 and 120 .

Referring to FIG. 4A , the deformable support unit 140 is formed to support the display unit 1510 . The deformable support part 140 includes a first support part 142 corresponding to the first region 1001 of the mobile terminal 1000 and a second support part corresponding to the second region 1002 of the mobile terminal 1000 ( 143). A first living hinge part 141 is formed between the first and second support parts 142 and 143 .

The first living hinge part 141 extends along a first direction D1 which is the longitudinal direction of the mobile terminal 100 and is arranged in a second direction D2 intersecting the first direction D1. made of a slit and a plurality of ribs. The first and second regions 1001 and 1002 of the mobile terminal 100 may be bent around the first living hinge unit 141 by the first living hinge unit 141 .

The deformable slide unit 130 that is deformed to bend the body of the mobile terminal 1000 by the external force is formed under the deformable support unit 140 . The deformable slide unit 130 is disposed between the first and second frames 110 and 120 .

The first and second frames 110 and 120 are disposed to correspond to the inside of the first and second regions 1001 and 1002 of the mobile terminal 1000, respectively. The first and second frames 110 and 120 each include a mounting space in which various electronic components of the mobile terminal 1000 can be mounted. In addition, a plurality of first magnet parts 151 are formed in an area adjacent to the deformable slide unit 130 of the first frame 110 , and the deformable slide unit 130 of the second frame 110 . A second magnet part 152 corresponding to the first magnet part 151 is formed in an area adjacent to . The first and second magnet parts 151 and 152 have opposite poles. Accordingly, the mobile terminal 1000 may be fixed by the attractive force of the first and second magnet parts 151 and 152 in the folded state.

The first connection part 132 of the deformable slide part 130 is fixed to the second frame 120 . The deformable slide unit 130 may include a plurality of fastening members arranged in the second direction D2 to fix the deformable slide unit 130 to the second frame 120 .

Meanwhile, the second connection part 133 of the deformable slide part 130 is slidably connected to the first frame 110 . The second connection part 133 further includes a guide hole 134 extending by a predetermined length in the first direction D1 , and the first frame 110 is a guide fitted into the guide hole 134 . It includes a protrusion 110'. That is, the deformable slide unit 130 may slide by a preset range along the first direction D1 with respect to the first frame 110 .

Referring back to FIG. 4A , the first living hinge part 141 of the deformable support part 140 can be seen between the second living hinge parts 141 exposed in the folded state.

A second living hinge part 131 is formed between the first and second connection parts 132 and 133 . The second living hinge part 131 includes a plurality of ribs 131a extending in the second direction D2 and arranged along the first direction D1. Since the plurality of ribs 131a are arranged at predetermined intervals, the second living hinge part 131 may form a curved surface by external force due to the space 131b between the ribs. Both ends of the plurality of ribs 131a of the second living hinge part 131 are bent to surround the side surface of the mobile terminal 1000 . The plurality of ribs 131a are connected by a plurality of connection ribs 131c extending in the one direction D1 in the unfolded state. The connecting part 131c may be made of an elastic material deformable by an external force.

Some ribs of the second living hinge part 131 are exposed by the front case 1010 and the rear cover 1030 .

Meanwhile, the deformable support unit 140 is disposed on the deformable slide unit 130 such that the first living hinge unit 141 corresponds to the second living hinge unit 131 . Accordingly, the first and second living hinge parts 141 and 131 may be deformed into shapes corresponding to each other by an external force.

When an external force is applied to the second region 1002 with respect to the first region 1001, the guide protrusion 110' moves along the guide hole 134, and the first and second frames ( The distance between 110 and 120) increases. Accordingly, the exposed area of the second living hinge part 131 increases.

When the second living hinge part 131 is exposed while forming a curved surface, the deformable region of the display unit 1510 forms a curved surface, and a folded state in which some regions of the first and second regions 1001 and 1002 overlap. becomes

Conversely, when the first and second regions 1001 and 1002 are in an unfolded state by an external force, the second living hinge part 131 is received again in the first frame 110 and the deformable slide part 130 ) is moved to be accommodated in the first frame (110).

Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 4C and 4D , the display unit 1510 includes a folding protrusion 142 formed in one area of a side surface. 4C is a conceptual diagram illustrating a state in which the deformation support unit 140 and the display unit 1510 are overlapped.

The display unit 1510 includes a display panel outputting an image and a support frame formed to surround an edge of the display panel and supporting the display panel. The folding protrusion 142 is formed in a partial area corresponding to the first living hinge part 141 of the support frame. The folding protrusion 142 includes a plurality of protrusion shapes 144 arranged side by side in the first direction D1. When the display unit 1510 is bent, the distance between the protrusions is changed to prevent the display unit 1510 from crying or being damaged.

5A to 5C are conceptual diagrams for explaining a folding unit of a mobile terminal according to an embodiment, and FIGS. 6A to 6C are conceptual diagrams for explaining a structure of a deformable sliding unit.

5A and 5B are conceptual views of the mobile terminal 1000 viewed from different directions in a closed state, and FIG. 5C is a conceptual view of the mobile terminal 1000 viewed from the side in an open state. The components of the mobile terminal 1000 according to the present embodiment are substantially the same as those of the mobile terminal 1000 according to the embodiment of FIG. 3A except for the deformable sliding unit 230 . Accordingly, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same and similar components, and overlapping descriptions are omitted.

5B and 5B, one region of the deformable sliding part 230 of the second folding unit 200 according to the present embodiment is the outer surface and the rear cover of the front case 1010 in the unfolded state. It is formed to form one surface and the outer surface of (1030). Hereinafter, a detailed structure of the second folding unit 200 will be described.

The second folding unit 200 includes the deformable support unit 140 , the deformable fixing unit 230 , and first and second frames 110 and 120 . Since the deformable support unit 140 and the first and second frames 110 and 120 are substantially the same as the components of the mobile terminal 1000 according to the embodiment of FIG. 3A , overlapping descriptions will be omitted.

6A to 6C , the deformable fixing part 230 includes a first connection part 232 fixed to the second frame 120 and a second connection part 233 fixed to the first frame 110 . include The deformation fixing part 230 is formed between the first and second connection parts 232 and 233 and includes a third living hinge part 231 whose length is changed by an external force. The third living hinge part 231 is formed on each of the plurality of ribs 231a and the plurality of ribs 231a.

Referring to FIG. 6C , the third living hinge part 231 includes a plurality of ribs 231a, a fitting protrusion 231b protruding from one surface of the plurality of ribs 231a, and a fitting protrusion of the other rib 231a. It includes a fitting groove (231c) recessed from the other surface of the rib (231a) so that the (231b) is inserted. Each of the plurality of ribs 231a extends along the second direction D2 and includes a curved structure surrounding the side surface of the mobile terminal 1000 .

The fitting protrusion 231b extends by a preset length in the second direction D2. The fitting protrusion 231b of the rib 231a is inserted into the fitting groove 231c of the other adjacent rib 231a so as to be childable.

Referring back to FIGS. 5A and 5C , the plurality of ribs 231a of the third living hinge part 231 are exposed to the outside when the first and second regions 1001 and 1002 are flat. In a state in which the plurality of fitting protrusions 231b are all fitted into the plurality of fitting grooves 231c, the outer surfaces of the plurality of ribs 231a are formed to form one surface with the outer surface of the rear cover 1030.

When the deformation region 1040 forms a curved surface due to an external force, the plurality of ribs 231a of the third living hinge part 231 are spaced apart from each other. The fitting protrusion 231c is separated from the fitting groove 231c.

Referring to FIG. 6C , an elastic support member 234 made of an elastic material is formed under the living hinge part 231 . The elastic support member 234 may be formed of a sheet of an elastic material deformable by an external force. The elastic support member 234 is elastically deformed by the deformation of the third living hinge part 231 .

In the folded state, the elastic support member 234 is exposed between the plurality of ribs 231a. Even when the plurality of ribs 231a are separated by the elastic support member 234, the inside is not exposed.

However, when the plurality of fitting protrusions 231b and the fitting hole 231a of the repair have a predetermined area, the inside of the third living hinge part 231 is formed by the fitting protrusion 231b in the folded state. may not be exposed. At the end of the fitting protrusion 231b, a locking protrusion may be formed so as not to be separated from the fitting groove 231c.

According to this embodiment, since both ends of the third living hinge part are fixed to the first and second regions of the body part to implement a folded state, an internal space for movement of the ribs is unnecessary, so the thickness of the mobile terminal can be minimized. there is. In addition, since it forms the same surface as the outer surface of the mobile terminal, it is possible to implement a simpler appearance.

7A to 7B are conceptual diagrams for explaining the structure of a mobile terminal according to another embodiment. Components of the mobile terminal 1000 according to the present embodiment, except for the structure of the first region 1001 of the body part and the third folding unit 300, of the mobile terminal 1000 shown in FIGS. 3A to 3C. Since the components are substantially the same, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same and similar components, and overlapping descriptions are omitted. The display unit 1510 of the mobile terminal 1000 according to the present embodiment is formed to be folded toward the rear of the mobile terminal 1000 .

Referring to FIGS. 7B and 7C , the body part includes a accommodating part 1001 ′ formed by recessing a region adjacent to the deformable region 1040 of the first region 1001 of the body part. That is, the thickness of the accommodating part 1001 ′ is formed to be smaller than the thickness of the remaining portion of the first region 1001 .

A first magnet portion 151 is formed inside the rear cover 1030 corresponding to the receiving portion 1001 ′, and the first magnet portion 151 is formed inside the rear cover 1030 of the second region 1002 . A second magnet part 152 corresponding to the magnet part 151 is formed. The first and second magnet parts 151 and 152 are formed with different poles.

A part of the second region 1002 is accommodated in the accommodating part 1001 ′ in the folded state. In the folded state, the first and second regions 1001 and 1002 are fixed by the attractive force of the first and second magnet parts 151 and 152 .

8A and 8B are conceptual views for explaining a third folding unit. 8A is a conceptual diagram illustrating a structure of a third folding unit in an unfolded state, and FIG. 8B is a conceptual diagram illustrating a state of a deformable unit in an unfolded state and a folded state.

The third folding unit 300 includes the deformable support unit 140 , the deformable elastic unit 330 , and first and second frames 310 and 320 . Since the deformable support unit 140 is substantially the same as the components of the mobile terminal 1000 according to the embodiment of FIG. 3A , a redundant description will be omitted. The deformable elastic part 330 is disposed under the deformable support part 140 .

The deformable elastic part 330 includes a first connection part 331a fixed to the first frame 310 and a second connection part 331b fixed to the second frame 320, and the first and second connection parts ( It includes an elastic part 334 disposed between 331a and 331b. The elastic part 334 may be formed of a plurality of coil spring members extending in the first direction D1 and arranged in the second direction D2. The first and second connecting portions 331a and 331b may be formed in cross-sections facing each other, and fixing grooves may be formed for fixing the first and second ends 334a and 334b of the plurality of spring members, respectively. The third folding unit 330 includes a pair of the first and second connecting portions 331a and 331b. The spring member provides an elastic force to maintain the body portion in an unfolded state.

The first frame 310 is formed along the first direction D1 and includes a moving hole 310 ′ formed so that the first connecting portion 331a moves. When the first connection part 331a is switched from the unfolded state to the folded state, it moves along the moving hole 310' in a direction away from the second preparation frame 331b.

On the other hand, the first connection part 331a accommodates a third magnet part 351, and on one surface of the moving hole 310', a fourth magnet part having the same pole as the third magnet part 351 ( 352) is installed. The third folding unit 330 maintains the unfolded state by the repulsive force generated by the third and fourth magnet parts 351 and 352 .

Referring to FIG. 8C , when the elastic part 334 of the third folding unit 330 is bent by an external force, the first end 334a is fixed along the moving hole 310 ′. The connection part 331a moves.

According to the present embodiment, the mobile terminal is bent using a deformable coil spring member, and the unfolded state is maintained by the opposite magnet part having the same pole as the elastic force of the coil spring member. In addition, when the folded state is maintained by the user's external force, the folded state is maintained by using a magnet having opposite poles.

9A to 9C are conceptual diagrams illustrating a mobile terminal according to another embodiment. 9A and 9B are conceptual views illustrating a folded state, and FIG. 9C is a conceptual diagram illustrating an open state. According to the present embodiment, a region of the display unit 1510 fixed to the body portion in the unfolded state is defined as a first region 1510a, and is connected to the first region 1510a in the folded state. A second region 1510b is defined as a remaining region formed to surround the side surface and the rear surface of the body part.

Referring to FIG. 9A , the thickness of one end of the body part has a first thickness W1 , and the second part of the body part adjacent to the region covered by the second region 1510b of the display part 1510 in the folded state is shown in the folded state. The end has a second thickness W2 that is thicker than the first thickness W1 . The second thickness W2 is determined by the curvature of the display unit 1510 .

The mobile terminal 1000 according to the present embodiment includes a folding unit for controlling the display unit. The folding unit according to this embodiment may be implemented substantially the same as the first folding unit 130 illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 4B .

The display unit 1510 according to the present embodiment includes a first magnet unit 151, and in the folded state, the first magnet unit 151 is disposed on an area of the rear cover 1030 corresponding to the first magnet unit 151. A second magnet unit (not shown) may be disposed opposite to the magnet unit 151 .

According to the present embodiment, a folded state and an unfolded state can be implemented by deforming an area of the display unit instead of the body of the mobile terminal.

10A to 10B are conceptual diagrams for explaining a mobile terminal according to another embodiment. The mobile terminal 1000 according to this embodiment has a main body 1070a and a body part having a sliding body 1070b mounted to be slidably moved on the main body 1070a along the first direction D1 ( 1070).

A sliding groove 1050a extending in the first direction D1 is formed at a lower portion of the display unit 1510 , and a sliding protrusion 1050b is inserted into the sliding groove 1050a to be movable by an external force. is placed The sliding protrusion 1050b is interlocked with the sliding body 1070b.

10A and 10C , the sliding body 1070b is formed to cover one area of the main body 1070a, and slides along the first direction D1. In the folded state, the second area 1050b of the display unit 1510 is formed to cover the rear surface of the sliding body 1070b. When the sliding body 1070b moves in the first direction D1 in the folded state, the second area 1050b of the display unit 1510 disposed on the sliding body 1070b is unfolded.

Hereinafter, the structure of the fourth folding unit 400 for changing the state of the display unit 1050 will be described in detail. The display unit 1510 includes a deformable region 1040 that forms a flat surface in an unfolded state and a curved surface in a folded state. The fourth folding unit 400 includes a link unit 411 having one end 413 connected to the sliding body 1070b and the other end 412 connected to the display unit 1510 . When the sliding body 1070b moves in the first direction D1, the link part 411 accommodated in the sliding body 1070b moves obliquely along the main body 1070a. It is exposed to the outside of the body 1070b.

By the movement of the link unit 411, the display unit 1050 also moves, and the display unit 1510 is unfolded by the angle of the link unit 411 by the main body 1070a.

11 illustrates a deformable support unit 140 supporting the display unit included in the mobile terminal according to the embodiment of FIG. 10A . The deformable support part 140 includes a first support part 142 corresponding to the first region 1510a of the display part 1510 and a second support part corresponding to the second region 1510b of the display part 1510 . (143). A first living hinge part 141 is formed between the first and second support parts 142 and 143 . In addition, a connecting ring portion 342 connected to the other end of the link portion 411 is formed between the first living hinge portion 141 and the second support portion 143 . When the link part 411 connected to the connection ring part 342 moves into the sliding body 1070b, the second area 1510b of the display part 1510 supported by the second support part 143 ) is folded to surround the sliding body (1070b).

According to this embodiment, the user can fold or unfold the display unit by moving the sliding body exposed to the outside.

12A to 12C are conceptual diagrams for explaining a mobile terminal according to another embodiment of FIG. The body portion of the mobile terminal 1000 according to this embodiment is connected to the first body 1080a, the second body 1080b, and the second body 1080b to slide into the first body 1080a. and a formed third body 1080c. The first body 1080a includes a storage space 1080a' formed to accommodate the third body 1080c. 12A and 12B , in the unfolded state of the display unit 1510, the third body 1080c is exposed from the receiving space 1080a, and in the folded state, the third body 1080c is accommodated in the storage space 1080a so that the first and second bodies 1080a and 1080c come into contact with each other. The second and third bodies 1080b and 1080c are formed so that one surface supporting the display unit 1510 forms a flat surface. The first body 1080b supports the first area 1510a of the display unit 1510 .

In the unfolded state, the second region 1510b of the display unit 1510 is supported by the second and third bodies 1080b and 1080c, and in the folded state, the second region 1510b of the display unit 1510 is The second region 1510b is formed to surround the side surface of the second body 1080b.

The mobile terminal 1000 according to the present embodiment includes a deformable support unit 140 (refer to FIGS. 4A and 4B ) that supports the display unit 1510 to be deformable. Although not specifically illustrated in the drawings, a guide protrusion extending in the first direction D1 may be formed on the lower portion of the deformable support unit 140 , and the first to third bodies 1080a, 1080b, and 1080c ), a guide rail corresponding to the guide rail may be formed in one area. The display unit 1510 may be deformed by movement of the first to third bodies 1080a, 1080b, and 1080c, or may be deformed by a user's external force. Hereinafter, a modified example of the display unit according to the present embodiment will be described.

13A and 13B are conceptual diagrams for explaining a driving state of the mobile terminal according to FIG. 12A.

13A illustrates a state in which the display unit is deformed according to the movement of the second body unit 1080b. The second body part 1080b gradually moves away from the first body part 1080a by the external force applied by the user, and the third body part 1080c is exposed from the storage space 1080a'. .

As the second body part 1080b moves, the deformable region 1040 of the display part 1510 gradually unfolds, and the display part 1510 is supported by the exposed third body part 1080c. .

13B shows a state in which the display unit 1510 is first converted to an unfolded state regardless of the second body 1080b. In the folded state, a groove 1080d is formed between one end of the display unit 1510 and the outer surface of the first body 1080a. The user may move the display unit 1510 through the groove 1080d using a fingernail or the like.

When the deformable area 1040 is in a flat unfolded state, the user can support the display unit 1510 by moving the second body 1080b.

The present invention described above can be implemented as computer-readable codes on a medium in which a program is recorded. The computer-readable medium includes all types of recording devices in which data readable by a computer system is stored. Examples of computer-readable media include Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Disk (SSD), Silicon Disk Drive (SDD), ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, optical data storage device, etc. There is also a carrier wave (eg, transmission over the Internet) that is implemented in the form of. In addition, the computer may include a control unit 1800 of the terminal. Accordingly, the above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in all respects but as exemplary. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims (20)

a flexible display unit including a deformable deformation region that is deformable into a folded state and an unfolded state by an external force;
a body part supporting a region of the flexible display part on a front surface;
a deformable support unit supporting the display unit and having a first living hinge unit corresponding to the deformable region;
and a folding unit mounted on the body part and guiding the deformation of the display part by the external force,
The body part consists of first and second bodies separated from each other,
The folding unit is formed between the first and second bodies, and the folding unit is provided with a second living hinge portion disposed to correspond to the first living hinge portion,
The folding unit,
a first connection part formed at one end of the second living hinge part and fixed to the second body;
a second connection part formed at the other end of the second living hinge part and having a guide groove formed on the first body to be slidable in a first direction that is a longitudinal direction of the body part;
The second body is a mobile terminal, characterized in that it comprises a guide projection inserted into the guide groove. delete delete The method of claim 1,
One region of the second living hinge part is exposed by the first and second body parts in the unfolded state,
When the folded state is switched, the remaining area of the second living hinge part is exposed by the first and second body parts by sliding of the second connection part. According to claim 1,
The second living hinge comprises a plurality of ribs spaced apart from each other by the external force. 6. The method of claim 5,
The plurality of ribs are arranged to be in close contact with each other in the folded state,
The plurality of ribs is a mobile terminal, characterized in that it is provided with a fitting projection protruding from one side and recessed from the other side, the fitting groove into which the fitting projections of the adjacent ribs are fitted. According to claim 6,
The mobile terminal, characterized in that the fitting projection is disposed between the plurality of ribs in the folded state. 7. The method of claim 6,
In the unfolded state, an outer surface of the rib is formed to form one surface with the outer surface of the first and second body parts. 7. The method of claim 6,
The folding unit is disposed under the living hinge, the mobile terminal characterized in that it further comprises an elastic support member configured to be elastically deformable by the external force. According to claim 1,
The first and second bodies are each provided with first and second magnets having different poles in one area corresponding to each other in the folded state. 11. The method of claim 10,
The folded state is a mobile terminal, characterized in that the display unit overlaps the front surface of the body unit. According to claim 1, wherein the folding unit,
a first frame that is slidably connected to the first body;
a second frame fixed to the second body; and
and an elastic part connecting between the first and second frames and comprising a plurality of coil springs corresponding to the deformation region. 13. The method of claim 12,
The first body includes a moving hole formed so that the first frame is movable,
The first body and the first frame are mobile terminals, characterized in that each includes first and second magnets having the same pole. According to claim 1,
The display unit includes a first area supported by the body portion based on the deformable area and a second area separated from the body portion in the unfolded state. 15. The method of claim 14,
The body portion comprises a main body portion supported by the first region and a sliding body portion mounted to be slidably movable from the main body portion. 16. The method of claim 15,
The folding unit has one end connected to the sliding body unit, the other end connected to the display unit, and includes a link unit interlocking with the sliding body unit,
The other end of the link part is fixed between the deformable area and the second area. 17. The method of claim 16,
The link part is accommodated inside the sliding body part in the folded state, and at least one region is exposed to the outside in the unfolded state,
In the unfolded state, the link unit is a mobile terminal, characterized in that forming a preset angle with the main body unit. According to claim 1,
The display unit includes first and second regions distinguished by the deformable region,
The body part includes a first body supporting a first area of the display part;
a second body supporting the second region in the folded state; and
and a third body connected to the second body, accommodated in the first body in the folded state, and exposed in the unfolded state to support the second region. 19. The method of claim 18,
In the folded state, the second region is disposed on the rear surface of the body portion, and a spacing groove is formed between the rear surface and an end of the second region. According to claim 1,
The deformable support unit is adjacent to the side surface of the display unit and is arranged along an edge of the first living hinge, the mobile terminal characterized in that it comprises a protrusion shape formed to be deformable by the external force.

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