KR102662875B1 - Flexible display device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention includes a flexible display unit formed to be deformable, a flexible frame disposed on the back of the flexible display unit and folding and unfolding together with the flexible display unit, and a plurality of hinge segments connected to the flexible frame. The hinge segments are arranged sequentially along the edges of the flexible frame, and are coupled to the flexible frame at the other end so that the gap at one end changes by folding and unfolding the flexible display unit. begins.

Description

Flexible display device {FLEXIBLE DISPLAY DEVICE}

The present invention relates to a flexible display device including a flexible display that can be deformed by external force.

Portable electronic devices (hereinafter referred to as mobile terminals), such as communication terminals, multimedia devices, portable computers, game consoles, and photography devices, are equipped with displays that display image information. Mobile terminals sometimes have a folding structure that can be folded to a smaller size for convenience of carrying. In this type of electronic device, two bodies are connected by a folding structure (eg, a hinge portion).

Because the conventional display had a structure that could not be folded, a structure in which the display was disposed across two bodies connected in a foldable manner could not be implemented. Therefore, large screens could not be practically applied to electronic devices with a folding structure.

However, as flexible displays capable of bending have been developed recently, research is being conducted to apply flexible displays to mobile terminals with a folding structure. In this case, since the flexible display can be arranged across the two bodies across the folding structure, a large screen can be implemented.

However, in the flexible display device, the flexible display is transformed into a folded state and an unfolded state using a hinge portion, but there is a problem of variation in deformation. In other words, in the case of bending, one side undergoes tensile deformation and the other side undergoes compressive deformation around the neutral axis (neutral line).

More specifically, in order to complement the characteristics of the display, electronic devices with a folding structure have a hinge operating structure (length compensation method, concealment structure, interlocking structure for each element) to control the neutral plane of the display or the back of the display. Several considerations are needed regarding the structure and operation method to support . Accordingly, as part of this consideration, the present invention seeks to apply a new mechanism to the hinge portion and surrounding structure.

The first object of the present invention is to provide a hinge structure that does not require length compensation due to folding and unfolding in a flexible display device.

A third object of the present invention is to provide a flexible display device in which a neutral line and a display line are formed at substantially the same position.

The second purpose of the present invention is to provide a hinge structure that can be slimmer in size in a flexible display device.

In order to achieve the object of the present invention, the flexible display device has a live hinge structure without a rotation axis. Additionally, the live hinge can be implemented with a new mechanism in which the rotation reference is formed inside the hinge portion.

More specifically, the flexible display device includes a flexible display unit that is deformably formed, a flexible frame disposed on the back of the flexible display unit and folded and unfolded together with the flexible display unit, and connected to the flexible frame. It includes a plurality of hinge segments, wherein the hinge segments are sequentially arranged along the edges of the flexible frame and are coupled to the flexible frame at the other end so that the gap at one end changes as the flexible display unit is folded and unfolded.

In one embodiment of the present invention, neutral lines of the plurality of hinge segments that do not change in length when folding and unfolding the flexible display unit are formed along the other end. The plurality of hinge segments may be coupled to the corner at the other end so that the neutral line is located at the corner of the flexible frame. In this way, as the neutral line of the flexible display device is formed inside the hinge segments, the neutral line can be formed at substantially the same position as the flexible display unit.

As another example, the hinge segments each include a base portion and a protrusion that protrudes from the base portion to form the other end, and a side surface of the protrusion may be coupled to an edge of the flexible frame.

The base portion is disposed to face the back of the flexible frame, and the protrusions may protrude from both sides of the base portion to be higher than the back surface of the flexible frame with respect to the base portion.

As another example, a receiving groove is formed on one side of the base portion, and a protrusion is formed on the other side of the base portion to be accommodated in the receiving groove of adjacent hinge segments when the flexible display unit is unfolded. The protrusion may move in a direction away from the receiving groove of the adjacent hinge segment when the flexible display unit is folded.

As another example, the hinge segments may be located in a portion of the flexible frame that undergoes bending deformation. Specifically, the flexible frame has a flexible area in which through holes are repeatedly arranged, and the hinge segments are arranged to overlap the flexible area.

As another example, the hinge segments and the flexible frame are each formed of a metal material, and a joint provided with a brazing welding agent is disposed between the hinge segments and the flexible frame.

The flexible frame is made of titanium, stainless steel or an amorphous alloy, and the hinge segments are made of stainless steel. The brazing welding agent may include an amorphous alloy.

In addition, the present invention implements a two-stage in-folding type flexible display device using the above-described live hinge. Specifically, the flexible display device includes a first body and a second body on which the flexible display unit is disposed, the hinge segments connect the first body and the second body to enable relative rotation, and the flexible display unit includes the first body and the second body. It can be folded and unfolded by relative rotation.

The flexible display unit is disposed on front surfaces of the first body and the second body facing each other when the flexible display unit is folded, and a change in the distance between the hinge segments may increase as the distance from the front surface increases.

One of the first body and the second body is formed with a body protrusion that is received in a receiving groove provided in one of the hinge segments, and the other one of the first body and the second body is formed with one of the hinge segments. A body groove into which a protrusion provided on the other is inserted may be formed.

In addition, the present invention implements a three-stage folding type flexible display device using the above-described live hinge. Specifically, the flexible display device includes a base body that is surrounded by the flexible display unit when the flexible display unit is folded, and the flexible display unit may be rotatably connected to one side of the base body.

At least a portion of the other side of the base body, which is opposite to one side of the base body, is formed as a curved surface, and the hinge segments are sequentially arranged along the curved surface of the base body while the flexible display unit surrounds the base body.

The hinge segments connect the first body and the second body on which the flexible display unit is disposed to enable relative rotation, and the first body and the second body are connected to both sides of the base body when the flexible display unit surrounds the base body. It is made to cover each.

The first body may be rotatably coupled to the base body, and an elastic force providing portion that pulls the flexible display unit may be disposed on the second body.

As another example, a through hole may be formed in the hinge segment, and an elastic member may be inserted into the through hole.

In addition, the present invention includes a first body and a second body, a hinge portion connecting the first body and the second body to enable relative rotation, and a hinge portion disposed on one surface of the first body and the second body, wherein the relative rotation A flexible display unit that folds and unfolds, and a flexible frame disposed on the back of the flexible display unit that folds and unfolds together with the flexible display unit, wherein the length changes according to the folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit. Disclosed is a flexible display device wherein the hinge portion includes a plurality of hinge segments sequentially coupled to the corners of the flexible frame at ends so that the neutral line of the hinge portion is formed at a corner of the flexible frame.

The effects of the present invention obtained through the above-described solution are as follows.

First, in the case of a multi-axis hinge, the neutral line of the hinge portion is formed at a position spaced apart from the display line, but in the live hinge of the present invention, the neutral line and the display line are the same, so there is no separate structure for length compensation. do.

Second, a more compact structure can be provided to the display device through a structure in which hinge segments are coupled to a flexible frame at the ends. Additionally, the hinge segments and the flexible frame may be coupled to each other at the corners of the flexible frame through brazing. Additionally, as the protrusions of the hinge segments are coupled to the corners of the flexible frame, a structure in which the base portions of the hinge segments support the rear surface of the flexible frame can be implemented.

Third, through the live hinge structure, the neutral line and the display line can be aligned regardless of the inner foldable type and the outer foldable type.

1 is a perspective view showing an example of a hinge portion and a flexible frame of the present invention.
Figure 2 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 1
Figure 3 is a side view of portion A of Figure 1.
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in Figure 2;
Figure 5 is an enlarged view showing the hinge segment of the hinge portion of Figure 1.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged plan view showing the flexible frame of FIG. 1.
Figure 7 is a block diagram for explaining a flexible display device related to the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a flexible display device to which the hinge unit of FIG. 1 is applied.
FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the flexible display device of FIG. 8.
Figure 9b is an operation diagram of a multi-axis hinge compared to the hinge part of Figure 9a.
10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating another embodiment of a flexible display device to which the hinge unit of the present invention is applied.
Figure 11 is an operation diagram showing the operation of the flexible display device of Figure 10.
FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the flexible display device of FIG. 10.
FIGS. 13 and 14 are exploded and cross-sectional views showing a modified example of the flexible display device of FIG. 10.
15 is a conceptual diagram illustrating another embodiment of a flexible display device to which the hinge unit of the present invention is applied.

Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, but identical or similar components will be assigned identical or similar reference numerals and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted. The suffixes “module” and “part” for components used in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the ease of preparing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves. Additionally, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this 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 descriptions will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings, and all changes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention are not limited. , should be understood to include equivalents or substitutes.

Terms containing ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

When a component is said to be "connected" or "connected" to another component, it is understood that it may be directly connected to or connected to the other component, but that other components may exist in between. It should be. On the other hand, when it is mentioned that a component is “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In this application, terms such as “comprise” or “have” are intended to designate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but are not intended to indicate the presence of one or more other features. It should be understood that this does not exclude in advance the possibility of the existence or addition of elements, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

As described above, the present invention proposes a live hinge with a new structure that does not require compensation for the length of the flexible display unit in the flexible display device. Below, the structure of the live hinge will first be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, and then various embodiments of a flexible display device to which the live hinge is applied will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 15.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a hinge portion and a flexible frame of the present invention, Figure 2 is an enlarged view of part A of Figure 1, Figure 3 is a side view of part A of Figure 1, and Figure 4 is a view of part A of Figure 2. It is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B, FIG. 5 is an enlarged view showing the hinge segment of the hinge portion of FIG. 1, and FIG. 6 is an enlarged plan view showing the flexible frame of FIG. 1.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6 , as an example of implementing folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit using a live hinge, the hinge unit 230 includes a plurality of hinge segments 240.

The plurality of hinge segments 240 are connected to the flexible frame 220, and the flexible frame 220 is disposed on the back of the flexible display unit 251 (see FIG. 8), and is connected to the flexible display unit 251 and It can be a structure that folds and unfolds together.

In this case, the flexible display unit 251 is configured to be deformable by external force.

The deformation may be at least one of bending, bending, folding, twisting, and curling of the display unit. This deformable display unit may be named a ‘flexible display’. Here, the flexible display unit 251 may include both a general flexible display, electronic paper (e-paper), and a combination thereof.

In a state in which the flexible display unit 251 is not deformed (for example, a state with an infinite radius of curvature, hereinafter referred to as the first state, see (a) of FIG. 8), the display area of the flexible display unit 251 becomes a plane. In a state in which the first state is transformed by an external force (e.g., a state with a finite radius of curvature, hereinafter referred to as the second state, see (b) of FIG. 8), the display area may become a curved surface. .

The flexible frame 220 is disposed on the back of the flexible display unit 251 and folds and unfolds together with the flexible display unit 251.

The flexible frame 220 may be formed to have a size equal to or smaller than that of the flexible display unit 251 in the X direction. Accordingly, at least a portion of the hinge segments 240 may be disposed on both sides of the flexible display unit 251 and the flexible frame 220. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this, and the flexible frame 220 may be slightly larger than the flexible display unit 251 in the X direction.

Referring to FIG. 6, the flexible frame 220 includes at least one flexible area 225 that can be bent to a maximum curvature. The flexible area 225 can be an area where through holes are repeatedly arranged, and can be folded and unfolded.

The flexible area 225 may include a plurality of flexible portions that can be bent to different maximum curvatures. In the following description, the X direction corresponds to the width direction of the flexible frame 220, and the Y direction corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the flexible frame 220.

In this example, the flexible area 225 includes a first flexible portion 221 that can be bent to a maximum first curvature and a second flexible portion 222 that can be bent to a maximum second curvature. . As shown, there are two second flexible portions 222 and can be placed on both sides of the first flexible portion 221 in the Y direction.

In order to implement bending of the first flexible portion 221, first holes are repeatedly formed in the first flexible portion 221. That is, the first holes provide flexibility to the first flexible portion 221, and the first flexible portion 221 is configured to be bent up to a state having a maximum first curvature.

The first holes are repeatedly formed along the X and Y directions that intersect each other. The first holes are formed to extend long in the X direction.

Likewise, in order to implement bending of the second flexible portion 222, second holes are repeatedly formed in the second flexible portion 222. That is, the second holes provide flexibility to the second flexible portion 222, and the second flexible portion 222 is configured to be bent up to a state having a maximum second curvature. Here, the second curvature has a different curvature from the first curvature.

The second holes are formed in a different shape or parallel to the first holes, so that the second flexible portion 222 can be bent in the Y direction together with the first flexible portion 221. The second holes are repeatedly formed along the X and Y directions that intersect each other. The second holes are formed to extend long in the X direction.

In this example, the first curvature may be greater than the second curvature. That is, the first flexible portion 221 is configured to be able to bend more than the second flexible portion 222. In this way, so that the first flexible portion 221 can be bent more than the second flexible portion 222, the total area occupied by the first holes per unit area in the first flexible portion 221 is greater than the second flexible portion 212. It may be larger than the total area occupied by the second holes per unit area.

Therefore, in a state where the first and second flexible portions 221 and 222 are bent to the first and second curvatures, respectively, the repulsion force acting on the first flexible portion 221 is the repulsion force acting on the second flexible portion 222. It can be bigger than

A rigid portion 226 is disposed on one side of each second flexible portion 222 in the Y direction. The rigid portion 226 is a part that is hardly bent by external force and may be formed as a flat surface. Holes intended to implement bending are not formed in the rigid portion 226.

In this way, the rigid portion 226 and the first flexible portion 221 are disposed on both sides of the second flexible portion 222 in the Y direction. When the first and second flexible portions 221 and 222 are maximally bent, the rigid portions 226 are arranged to face each other.

As described above, second flexible portions 222 are disposed on both sides of the first flexible portion 221 in the Y direction, and a rigid portion 226 is disposed on one side of each second flexible portion 222 in the Y direction. This is placed.

Referring to FIG. 6, the first flexible portion 221 of the flexible frame 220 is formed in the middle portion of the flexible frame 220, and the bent portion 252 of the flexible display unit 251 (b) of FIG. 8 (reference) is supported. The rigid portion 226 supports the flexible display unit 251 in a flat state on both sides of the bent portion 252.

In this case, since the hinge portion 230 is disposed on both sides of the flexible frame 220, the curved cross-sectional shape of the flexible area 225 may overlap with the hinge portion 230. From another perspective, the curved cross-sectional shape of the bent portion 252 of the flexible display unit 251 may overlap with the hinge portion 230. However, depending on the thickness of the flexible frame 220, only the flexible area of the flexible frame 220 overlaps the hinge portion 230, and the bent portion 252 of the flexible display portion 251 overlaps the hinge portion 230. It is also possible to be placed above the branch 230.

In the above, the positional relationship between the flexible frame 220, the flexible display unit 251, and the hinge unit 230 has been described, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and a configuration without the flexible frame 220 is also possible. .

Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the hinge portion 230 includes a plurality of hinge segments 240 connected to the flexible frame 220. Hereinafter, the description will be made on the assumption that the flexible frame 220 exists, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto. In a configuration without the flexible frame 220, the hinge segments 240 of the hinge portion 230 may be connected to the flexible display portion 251. In this case, a separate border member that can be coupled to the hinge segments 240 may be disposed on the edge of the flexible display unit 251.

Referring again to the drawings, the hinge segments 240 are sequentially arranged along the edges of the flexible frame 220, and the gap at one end changes by folding and unfolding the flexible display unit 251. It is coupled to the flexible frame 220 at the other end. For example, one end of the hinge segments 240 is a free end capable of rotational displacement, and the other end is coupled to the flexible frame 220 to form a fixed end that is the center of the rotational displacement.

The hinge segments 240 may be arranged to overlap the flexible area 225. More specifically, since the hinge segments 240 guide the folding and unfolding of the flexible area 225, the curved cross-sectional shape of the flexible area may overlap with the hinge segments 240. Additionally, the hinge segments 240 may be arranged to contact adjacent hinge segments on both sides when the flexible region 225 is unfolded.

In this case, the hinge segments 240 may each include a base portion 241 and a protrusion 242 that protrudes from the base portion 241 to form the other end.

The base portion 241 is formed to be long along the X direction and may be arranged to face the back of the flexible frame 220. Accordingly, the base portion 241 is configured to overlap the flexible frame 220 and the flexible display portion 251 in the thickness direction of the flexible frame 220 or the flexible display portion 251. In this case, the base portions 241 of the hinge segments 240 may be formed to make surface contact with the base portions 241 of the left and right hinge segments adjacent to each other on both sides of the base portion 241.

The protrusion 242 may protrude from the other end and become a part coupled to the flexible frame 220. More specifically, the protrusions 242 protrude from both sides of the base portion 241, and the side surfaces of the protrusions 242 may be combined with corners of the flexible frame 220. By this structure, a separation space can be formed between the upper surface of the base portion 241 and the rear surface of the flexible frame 220.

According to the illustration, the protrusions 242 may protrude from both sides of the base portion 241 to be higher than the rear surface of the flexible frame 220 based on the base portion 241. As the flexible frame 220 protrudes further than the rear surface, the corners of the flexible frame 220 may overlap with the protrusion 242 in the X direction. In this overlapping portion, the edge of the flexible frame 220 and the protrusion 242 may be coupled to each other.

In this case, the edge of the flexible frame 220 and the protrusion 242 may be joined to each other by brazing welding.

For example, the hinge segments 240 and the flexible frame 220 are each formed of a metal material, and a joint provided with a brazing welding agent between the hinge segments 240 and the flexible frame 220. (243) can be placed.

More specifically, the flexible frame 220 may be formed of titanium, stainless steel, or amorphous alloy. When the flexible frame 220 is made of titanium, the diameter of the through hole of the flexible area 225 is larger than the thickness of the titanium. As another example, when the flexible frame 220 is made of an amorphous alloy, for example, liquid metal, the flexible frame 220 may have a structure without the through hole.

Meanwhile, the hinge segments 240 may be made of stainless steel or titanium. In this case, considering manufacturing costs, the hinge segments 240 may be formed of stainless steel.

When the hinge segments 240 are made of stainless steel and the flexible frame 220 is made of titanium or an amorphous alloy, there is a problem in that it is difficult to join as they are dissimilar materials, but in this example, the two are joined through brazing. The brazing welding agent has a melting temperature of 450 degrees or more, but may be made of a material whose melting temperature is lower than that of the hinge segments 240 and the flexible frame 220. As an example of this, in particular amorphous alloys may be provided as filler metals. That is, the brazing welding agent includes an amorphous alloy.

According to the coupling method described above, the protrusions 242 of the hinge segments 240 can be coupled to the corners of the flexible frame 220. In addition, since the hinge segments 240 are sequentially arranged along the Y direction, the joint portion of the hinge segments 240 and the flexible frame 220 can be formed along the edge of the flexible frame 220. there is. In this case, the joint portion of the hinge segments 240 and the flexible frame 220 forms a neutral line that does not change in length even when the flexible display unit 251 is folded and unfolded. In a structure in which the flexible display unit 251 is disposed on the upper surface of the flexible frame 220, the flexible display unit 251 may be located on the neutral line of the flexible display device, which will be described in more detail later.

Meanwhile, a receiving groove 244 may be formed on one side of the base portion 241, and a protrusion 245 may be formed on the other side of the base portion 241. The receiving groove 244 is configured to accommodate the protrusion 245. More specifically, the protrusion 245 may be accommodated in the receiving groove 244 of the adjacent hinge segments 240 when the flexible display unit is unfolded. For example, the protrusion 245 is formed to support the inner wall of the receiving groove 244, and through this, the fastening force of the hinge segments 240 can be strengthened. Additionally, during the process of folding the flexible display unit 251, the protrusion 245 may move in a direction away from the receiving groove 244. However, even in this case, the protrusion 245 may have a structure in which at least part of the protrusion 245 is accommodated in the receiving groove 244. Through this structure, the hinge segments 240 can be supported by adjacent hinge segments.

The hinge portion 230 described above has a structure in which a neutral line is formed at the end of the hinge portion 230, forming a live hinge. Hereinafter, embodiments in which the hinge unit 230 is applied to a flexible display device will be described in more detail.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram for explaining a flexible display device related to the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a flexible display device to which the hinge portion of FIG. 1 is applied.

Display devices described in this specification include mobile phones, smart phones, laptop computers, digital broadcasting terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation, and slate PCs. , mobile terminals such as tablet PCs, ultrabooks, and wearable devices (e.g., smartwatch, smart glass, head mounted display), etc. may be included. Therefore, an example of the flexible display device is a mobile terminal capable of folding and unfolding.

However, those skilled in the art will easily understand that, except for the case where the configuration according to the embodiment described in this specification is applicable only to mobile terminals, it can also be applied to fixed terminals such as digital TVs, desktop computers, digital signage, etc. will be. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, a mobile terminal will be described as an example of a flexible display device in this specification.

The mobile terminal 100 includes a wireless communication unit 110, an input unit 120, a detection unit 140, an output unit 150, an interface unit 160, a memory 170, a control unit 180, and a power supply unit 190. ), etc. may be included. The components shown in FIG. 7 are not essential for implementing the mobile terminal, so the mobile terminal described herein may have more or fewer components than the components listed above.

More specifically, among the above components, the wireless communication unit 110 is used between the mobile terminal 100 and the wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile terminal 100, or between the mobile terminal 100 and an external server. It may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication between the devices. Additionally, the wireless communication unit 110 may include one or more modules that connect the mobile terminal 100 to one or more networks.

This wireless communication unit 110 may include at least one of a broadcast reception module 111, 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 120 includes a camera 121 or an 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. , touch keys, push keys (mechanical keys, etc.). Voice data or image data collected by the input unit 120 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 within the mobile terminal, information on the surrounding environment surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information. For example, the sensing unit 140 includes a proximity sensor (141), an illumination sensor (142), a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, and a gravity sensor. Sensor (G-sensor), gyroscope sensor, motion sensor, RGB sensor, IR sensor (infrared sensor), fingerprint scan sensor, ultrasonic sensor , optical sensors (e.g., cameras (see 121)), microphones (see 122), battery gauges, environmental sensors (e.g., barometers, hygrometers, thermometers, radiation detection sensors, It may include at least one of a heat detection sensor, a gas detection sensor, etc.) and a chemical sensor (e.g., an electronic nose, a healthcare sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.). Meanwhile, the mobile terminal disclosed in this specification can utilize information sensed by at least two of these sensors by combining them.

The output unit 150 is for generating output related to vision, hearing, or tactile sense, and includes at least one of a display unit 151, an audio output unit 152, a haptip module 153, and an optical output unit 154. can do. The display unit 151 can implement a touch screen by forming a layered structure or being integrated with the touch sensor. This touch screen functions as a user input unit 123 that provides an input interface between the mobile terminal 100 and the user, and can simultaneously provide an output interface between the mobile terminal 100 and the user.

The interface unit 160 serves as a passageway for various types of external devices connected to the mobile terminal 100. This interface unit 160 connects devices 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 an external device being connected to the interface unit 160, the mobile terminal 100 may perform appropriate control related to the connected external device.

Additionally, the memory 170 stores data supporting various functions of the mobile terminal 100. The memory 170 may store a number of application programs (application programs or applications) running on the mobile terminal 100, data for operating the mobile terminal 100, and commands. At least some of these applications may be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. Additionally, at least some of these applications may be present on the mobile terminal 100 from the time of shipment for basic functions of the mobile terminal 100 (e.g., incoming and outgoing calls, receiving and sending functions). Meanwhile, the application program may be stored in the memory 170, installed on the mobile terminal 100, and driven by the control unit 180 to perform operations (or functions) of the mobile terminal.

In addition to operations related to the application program, the control unit 180 typically controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal 100. The control unit 180 can provide or process appropriate information or functions to the user by processing signals, data, information, etc. input or output through the components discussed above, or by running an application program stored in the memory 170.

Additionally, the control unit 180 may control at least some of the components examined with FIG. 7 in order to run an application program stored in the memory 170. Furthermore, the control unit 180 can operate at least two of the components included in the mobile terminal 100 in combination with each other in order to run the application program.

The power supply unit 190 receives external power and internal power under the control of the control unit 180 and supplies power to each component included in the mobile terminal 100. This 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 above components may cooperate with each other to implement operation, control, or a control method of a mobile terminal according to various embodiments described below. Additionally, the operation, control, or control method of the mobile terminal may be implemented on the mobile terminal by running at least one application program stored in the memory 170.

Below, before looking at various embodiments implemented through the mobile terminal 100 discussed above, the components listed above will be looked at in more detail with reference to FIG. 7.

First, looking at the wireless communication unit 110, the broadcast reception module 111 of the wireless communication unit 110 receives broadcast signals and/or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel. The broadcast channels may include satellite channels and terrestrial channels. Two or more broadcast reception modules may be provided in the mobile terminal 100 for simultaneous broadcast reception of at least two broadcast channels or broadcast channel switching.

The broadcast management server may refer to a server that generates and transmits broadcast signals and/or broadcast-related information, or a server that receives previously generated broadcast signals and/or broadcast-related information and transmits them to the terminal. The broadcast signal not only includes a TV broadcast signal, a radio broadcast signal, and a data broadcast signal, but may also include a broadcast signal in the form of a TV broadcast signal or a radio broadcast signal combined with a data broadcast signal.

The broadcast signal may be encoded according to at least one of the technical standards for transmission and reception of digital broadcast signals (or broadcasting methods, such as ISO, IEC, DVB, ATSC, etc.), and the broadcast reception module 111 may be configured to The digital broadcast signal can be received using a method that conforms to the technical specifications set forth in the technical standards.

The broadcast-related information may mean information related to a broadcast channel, broadcast program, or broadcast service provider. The broadcast-related information may also be provided through a mobile communication network. In this case, it can be received by the mobile communication module 112.

The broadcast-related information may exist in various forms, such as, for example, an Electronic Program Guide (EPG) of Digital Multimedia Broadcasting (DMB) or an Electronic Service Guide (ESG) of Digital Video Broadcast-Handheld (DVB-H). Broadcast signals and/or broadcast-related information received through the broadcast reception module 111 may be stored in the memory 160.

The mobile communication module 112 supports technical standards or communication methods for mobile communication (e.g., Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access (CDMA), Code Division Multi Access 2000 (CDMA2000), EV -DO (Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only), WCDMA (Wideband CDMA), HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access), HSUPA (High Speed Uplink Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced, etc.), wireless signals are transmitted and received with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

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

The wireless Internet module 113 refers to a module for wireless Internet access and may be built into or external to the mobile terminal 100. The wireless Internet module 113 is configured to transmit and receive wireless signals in a communication network based on wireless Internet technologies.

Wireless Internet technologies include, for example, WLAN (Wireless LAN), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) Direct, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), WiBro (Wireless Broadband), and WiMAX (Worldwide). Interoperability for Microwave Access), HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access), HSUPA (High Speed Uplink Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), etc., and the wireless Internet module ( 113) transmits and receives data according to at least one wireless Internet technology, including Internet technologies not listed above.

From the perspective that wireless Internet access by WiBro, HSDPA, HSUPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE, LTE-A, etc. is achieved through a mobile communication network, the wireless Internet module 113 performs wireless Internet access through the mobile communication network. ) may be understood as a type of the mobile communication module 112.

The short-range communication module 114 is for short-range communication, including Bluetooth™ Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), ZigBee, and Near Field Communication (NFC). The short-distance communication module 114 may support short-distance communication using at least one of (Field Communication), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus) technologies. , between the mobile terminal 100 and a wireless communication system, between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile terminal 100, or between the mobile terminal 100 and another mobile terminal 100, or The local wireless communication network may be a wireless personal area network.

Here, the other mobile terminal 100 is a wearable device (e.g., smartwatch, smart glass) capable of exchanging data with (or interoperating with) the mobile terminal 100 according to the present invention. (smart glass), HMD (head mounted display)). The short-range communication module 114 may detect (or recognize) a wearable device capable of communicating with the mobile terminal 100 around the mobile terminal 100 . Furthermore, if the detected wearable device is a device authenticated to communicate with the mobile terminal 100 according to the present invention, the control unit 180 sends at least a portion of the data processed by the mobile terminal 100 to the short-range communication module ( 114) can be transmitted to a wearable device. Accordingly, the user of the wearable device can use data processed in the mobile terminal 100 through the wearable device. For example, according to this, when a call is received on the mobile terminal 100, the user may make a phone call through a wearable device, or when a message is received on the mobile terminal 100, the user may make a phone call through the wearable device. It is possible to check the message.

The location information module 115 is a module for acquiring the location (or current location) of a mobile terminal, and representative examples thereof include a Global Positioning System (GPS) module or a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) module. For example, if a mobile terminal uses a GPS module, it can acquire the location of the mobile terminal using signals sent from GPS satellites. As another example, when a mobile terminal utilizes a Wi-Fi module, the location of the mobile terminal can be acquired based on information from the Wi-Fi module and a wireless AP (Wireless Access Point) that transmits or receives wireless signals. If necessary, the location information module 115 may replace or additionally perform any of the functions of other modules of the wireless communication unit 110 to obtain data regarding the location of the mobile terminal. 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 120 is for inputting video information (or signal), audio information (or signal), data, or information input from the user. For input of video information, the mobile terminal 100 is one Alternatively, a plurality of cameras 121 may be provided. The camera 121 processes image frames such as still images or moving images obtained by an image sensor in video call mode or shooting mode. The processed image frame may be displayed on the display unit 151 or stored in the memory 170. Meanwhile, the plurality of cameras 121 provided in the mobile terminal 100 may be arranged to form a matrix structure, and through the cameras 121 forming the matrix structure, the mobile terminal 100 can be viewed at various angles or focuses. A plurality of image information may be input. Additionally, the plurality of cameras 121 may be arranged in a stereo structure to acquire left and right images for implementing a three-dimensional image.

The microphone 122 processes external acoustic signals into electrical voice data. The processed voice data can be utilized in various ways depending on the function (or application program being executed) being performed in the mobile terminal 100. Meanwhile, various noise removal algorithms may be implemented in the microphone 122 to remove noise generated in the process of receiving an external acoustic signal.

The user input unit 123 is for receiving information from the user. When information is input through the user input unit 123, the control unit 180 can control the operation of the mobile terminal 100 to correspond to the input information. . This user input unit 123 may be a mechanical input means (or mechanical key, for example, a button located on the front, rear or side of the mobile terminal 100, 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, soft key, or visual key displayed on the touch screen through software processing, or a part other than the touch screen. It can be done with a touch key placed in . Meanwhile, the virtual key or visual key can be displayed on the touch screen in various forms, for example, graphic, text, icon, video or these. It can be made up of a combination of .

Meanwhile, the sensing unit 140 senses at least one of information within the mobile terminal, information about the surrounding environment surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information, and generates a sensing signal corresponding thereto. Based on these sensing signals, the control unit 180 may control the driving or operation of the mobile terminal 100 or perform data processing, functions, or operations related to an application program installed on the mobile terminal 100. Representative sensors among the various sensors that may be included in the sensing unit 140 will be looked at in more detail.

First, the proximity sensor 141 refers to a sensor that detects the presence or absence of an object approaching a predetermined detection surface or an object existing nearby without mechanical contact using the power of an electromagnetic field or infrared rays. The proximity sensor 141 may be placed in the inner area of the mobile terminal surrounded by the touch screen as seen above or near the touch screen.

Examples of the proximity sensor 141 include a transmissive photoelectric sensor, a direct reflection photoelectric sensor, a mirror reflection photoelectric sensor, a high-frequency oscillation type proximity sensor, a capacitive proximity sensor, a magnetic proximity sensor, and an infrared proximity sensor. When the touch screen is capacitive, the proximity sensor 141 may be configured to detect the proximity of a conductive object by changing the electric field according to the proximity of the object. In this case, the touch screen (or touch sensor) itself can be classified as a proximity sensor.

Meanwhile, for convenience of explanation, the act of approaching an object on the touch screen without touching it so that the object is recognized as being 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 at which an object is close-touched on the touch screen means the position at which the object corresponds perpendicularly to the touch screen when the object is close-touched. The proximity sensor 141 can detect proximity touch and proximity touch patterns (e.g., proximity touch distance, proximity touch direction, proximity touch speed, proximity touch time, proximity touch position, proximity touch movement state, etc.). there is. Meanwhile, the control unit 180 processes data (or information) corresponding to the proximity touch operation and proximity touch pattern detected through the proximity sensor 141, as described above, and further provides visual information corresponding to the processed data. It can be output on the touch screen. Furthermore, the control unit 180 may control the mobile terminal 100 to process different operations or data (or information) depending on whether a touch to the same point on the touch screen is a proximity touch or a contact touch. .

The touch sensor detects a touch (or touch input) applied to the touch screen (or display unit 151) using at least one of various touch methods such as resistive method, capacitive method, infrared method, ultrasonic method, and magnetic field method. do.

As an example, a touch sensor may be configured to convert changes in pressure applied to a specific part of the touch screen or capacitance occurring in a specific part into an electrical input signal. The touch sensor may be configured to detect the position, area, pressure at the time of touch, capacitance at the time of the touch, etc., at which the touch object that touches 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 stylus pen, or a pointer.

In this way, when there is a touch input to the touch sensor, the corresponding signal(s) are sent to the touch controller. The touch controller processes the signal(s) and then transmits the corresponding data to the control unit 180. As a result, the control unit 180 can determine which area of the display unit 151 has been touched. Here, the touch controller may be a separate component from the control unit 180 or may be the control unit 180 itself.

Meanwhile, the control unit 180 may perform different controls or the same control depending on the type of touch object that touches the touch screen (or touch keys provided other than the touch screen). Whether to perform different controls or the same controls depending on the type of touch object may be determined depending on the current operating state of the mobile terminal 100 or the application program being executed.

Meanwhile, the touch sensor and proximity sensor discussed above are used independently or in combination to provide short (or tap) touch, long touch, multi touch, and drag touch on the touch screen. ), flick touch, pinch-in touch, pinch-out touch, swipe touch, hovering touch, etc. Touch can be sensed.

An ultrasonic sensor can recognize the location information of a sensing object using ultrasonic waves. Meanwhile, the control unit 180 is capable of calculating the location of the wave source through information sensed from an optical sensor and a plurality of ultrasonic sensors. The location of the wave source can be calculated using the property that light is much faster than ultrasonic waves, that is, the time for light to reach the optical sensor is much faster than the time for ultrasonic waves to reach the ultrasonic sensor. More specifically, the location of the wave source can be calculated using the time difference between the arrival time of ultrasonic waves using light as a reference signal.

Meanwhile, looking at the configuration of the input unit 120, the camera 121 includes at least one of a camera sensor (eg, CCD, CMOS, etc.), a photo sensor (or image sensor), and a laser sensor.

The camera 121 and the laser sensor can be combined with each other to detect the touch of the sensing object for a 3D stereoscopic image. A photo sensor can be laminated on the display element, and this photo sensor is configured to scan the movement of a detection object close to the touch screen. More specifically, the photo sensor mounts photo diodes and TR (transistors) in rows/columns and scans the contents placed on the photo sensor using electrical signals that change depending on the amount of light applied to the photo diode. In other words, the photo sensor calculates the coordinates of the sensing object according to the amount of change in light, and through this, location information of the sensing object can be obtained.

The display unit 151 displays (outputs) information processed in the mobile terminal 100. For example, the display unit 151 may display execution screen information of an application running on the mobile terminal 100, or UI (User Interface) and GUI (Graphic User Interface) information according to this execution screen information. .

Additionally, the display unit 151 may be configured as a three-dimensional display unit that displays a three-dimensional image.

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

The audio output unit 152 may output audio data received from the wireless communication unit 110 or stored in the memory 170 in call signal reception, call mode or recording mode, voice recognition mode, broadcast reception mode, etc. The sound output unit 152 also outputs sound signals related to functions performed in the mobile terminal 100 (eg, call signal reception sound, message reception sound, etc.). This sound output unit 152 may include a receiver, speaker, buzzer, etc.

The haptic module 153 generates various tactile effects that the user can feel. A representative example of a tactile effect generated by the haptic module 153 may be vibration. The intensity and pattern of vibration generated by the haptic module 153 may be controlled by the user's selection or settings of the control unit 180. For example, the haptic module 153 may synthesize and output different vibrations or output them sequentially.

In addition to vibration, the haptic module 153 responds to stimulation such as pin arrays moving perpendicular to the contact skin surface, blowing force or suction force of air through a nozzle or inlet, grazing the skin surface, contact with electrodes, and electrostatic force. A variety of tactile effects can be generated, such as effects by reproducing hot and cold sensations using elements that can absorb heat or heat.

The haptic module 153 can not only deliver a tactile effect through direct contact, but can also be implemented so that the user can feel the tactile effect through muscle senses such as fingers or arms. Two or more haptic modules 153 may be provided depending on the configuration of the mobile terminal 100.

The optical output unit 154 uses light from the light source of the mobile terminal 100 to output a signal to notify that an event has occurred. Examples of events that occur in the mobile terminal 100 may include receiving a message, receiving a call signal, a missed call, an alarm, a schedule notification, receiving an email, receiving information through an application, etc.

The signal output by the optical output unit 154 is realized as the mobile terminal emits light of a single color or multiple colors to the front or back. The signal output may be terminated when the mobile terminal detects the user's confirmation of the event.

The interface unit 160 serves as a passageway for all external devices connected to the mobile terminal 100. The interface unit 160 receives data from an external device, receives power and transmits it to each component inside the mobile terminal 100, or transmits data inside the mobile terminal 100 to an external device. For example, wired/wireless headset port, external charger port, wired/wireless data port, memory card port, port for connecting a device equipped with an identification module. A port, an audio input/output (I/O) port, a video input/output (I/O) port, an earphone port, etc. may be included in the interface unit 160.

Meanwhile, the identification module is a chip that stores various information for authenticating the right to use the mobile terminal 100, and includes a user identification module (UIM), subscriber identity module (SIM), and general user authentication. It may include a module (universal subscriber identity module; USIM), etc. A device equipped with an identification module (hereinafter referred to as an 'identification device') may be manufactured in a smart card format. Therefore, the identification device can be connected to the terminal 100 through the interface unit 160.

In addition, the interface unit 160 serves as a path through which power from the cradle is supplied to the mobile terminal 100 when the mobile terminal 100 is connected to an external cradle, or is used to supply power from the cradle by the user. It can be a passage through which various command signals are transmitted to the mobile terminal 100. Various command signals or the power input from the cradle may be operated as signals for recognizing that the mobile terminal 100 is correctly mounted on the cradle.

The memory 170 can store programs for operating the control unit 180, and can also temporarily store input/output data (eg, phone book, messages, still images, videos, etc.). The memory 170 may store data on various patterns of vibration and sound output when a touch is input on the touch screen.

The memory 170 is a flash memory type, hard disk type, solid state disk type, SDD type (Silicon Disk Drive type), and multimedia card micro type. ), card-type memory (e.g. SD or XD memory, etc.), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read) -only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk may include at least one type of storage medium. The mobile terminal 100 may be operated in connection with web storage that performs a storage function of the memory 170 on the Internet.

Meanwhile, as discussed above, the control unit 180 controls operations related to application programs and generally controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal 100. For example, if the state of the mobile terminal satisfies a set condition, the control unit 180 may execute or release a lock state that restricts the user's input of control commands to applications.

In addition, the control unit 180 may perform control and processing related to voice calls, data communications, video calls, etc., or perform pattern recognition processing to recognize handwriting or drawing inputs made on the touch screen as text and images, respectively. You can. Furthermore, the control unit 180 may control any one or a combination of the components described above in order to implement various embodiments described below on the mobile terminal 100 according to the present invention.

The power supply unit 190 receives external power and internal power under the control of the control unit 180 and supplies power necessary for the operation of each component. The power supply unit 190 includes a battery, and the battery can be a built-in battery that can be recharged, and can be detachably coupled to the terminal body for charging, etc.

Additionally, the power supply unit 190 may be provided with 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 unit 190 may be configured to charge the battery wirelessly without using the connection port. In this case, the power supply unit 190 uses one or more of the inductive coupling method based on magnetic induction phenomenon or the magnetic resonance coupling method based on electromagnetic resonance phenomenon from an external wireless power transmitter. Power can be transmitted.

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

The display unit 151 displays (outputs) information processed in the mobile terminal 100. For example, the display unit 151 may display execution screen information of an application running on the mobile terminal 100, or UI (User Interface) and GUI (Graphic User Interface) information according to this execution screen information. .

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

Additionally, there may be two or more display units 151 depending on the implementation type of the mobile terminal 100. In this case, in the mobile terminal 100, a plurality of display units may be spaced apart or arranged integrally on one side, or may be respectively arranged on different sides.

The display unit 151 may include a touch sensor that detects a touch on the display unit 151 so that control commands can be input by a touch method. Using this, when a touch is made to the display unit 151, the touch sensor can detect the touch, and the control unit 180 can generate a control command corresponding to the touch based on this. Content input by the touch method may be letters or numbers, instructions in various modes, or designable menu items.

The microphone 122 is configured to receive input of the user's voice or other sounds. The microphone 122 may be provided at a plurality of locations and configured to receive stereo sound.

The interface unit 160 serves as a passage through which the mobile terminal 100 can be connected to an external device. For example, the interface unit 160 includes a connection terminal for connection with other devices (e.g., earphones, external speakers), a port for short-distance communication (e.g., an infrared port (IrDA Port), a Bluetooth port (Bluetooth port) Port), wireless LAN port, etc.], or a power supply terminal for supplying power to the mobile terminal 100. This interface unit 160 may be implemented in the form of a socket that accommodates an external card, such as a Subscriber Identification Module (SIM), a User Identity Module (UIM), or a memory card for information storage.

The terminal body may be equipped with at least one antenna for wireless communication. The antenna may be built into the terminal body or formed in the case. For example, the antenna forming part of the broadcast reception module 111 (see FIG. 7) may be configured to be removable from the terminal body. Alternatively, the antenna may be formed as a film type and attached to the inner side of the housing, or a case containing a conductive material may be configured to function as an antenna.

The terminal body is provided with a power supply unit 190 (see FIG. 7) to supply power to the mobile terminal 100. The power supply unit 190 may include a battery 191 that is built into the terminal body or is removable from the outside of the terminal body.

The battery 191 may be configured to receive power through a power cable connected to the interface unit 160. Additionally, the battery 191 may be configured to enable wireless charging through a wireless charging device. The wireless charging can be implemented using a magnetic induction method or a resonance method (magnetic resonance method).

Accessories may be added to the mobile terminal 100 to protect its appearance or to assist or expand the functions of the mobile terminal 100. An example of such an accessory may be a cover or pouch that covers or accommodates at least one side of the mobile terminal 100. The cover or pouch may be configured to expand the functionality of the mobile terminal 100 in conjunction with the display unit 151. Another example of an accessory is a touch pen to assist or expand touch input on a touch screen.

FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a mobile terminal equipped with a flexible display as a flexible display device. The mobile terminal 200 according to the present invention is provided with a flexible display unit 251 that can be deformed by external force.

The deformation may be at least one of bending, bending, folding, twisting, and curling of the display module. This deformable display module can be named 'flexible display'. Here, the flexible display unit 251 may include both a general flexible display, electronic paper (e-paper), and a combination thereof.

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

Additionally, electronic paper is a display technology that applies the characteristics of general ink, and its use of reflected light may be different from existing flat panel displays. Electronic paper can change information using a twisted ball or electrophoresis using a capsule.

The flexible display unit 251 may be unfolded in the above-described first state and folded in the second state. As shown, information displayed in the second state may be visual information output on a curved surface. This visual information is implemented by independently controlling the light emission of unit pixels (sub-pixels) arranged in a matrix form. The unit pixel refers to the minimum unit for implementing one color.

The flexible display unit 251 may be placed in a curved state (for example, curved up and down or left and right) rather than in a flat state in the first state. In this case, when an external force is applied to the flexible display unit 251, the flexible display unit 251 may be deformed into a flat state (or a less curved state) or a more curved state.

Meanwhile, the flexible display unit 251 can be combined with a touch sensor to implement a flexible touch screen. When a touch is made on the flexible touch screen, the control unit 180 (see FIG. 7) can perform control corresponding to the touch input. The flexible touch screen can be configured to detect a touch input not only in the first state but also in the second state.

Meanwhile, the mobile terminal 200 according to this modified example may be equipped with deformation detection means capable of detecting deformation of the flexible display unit 251. This strain detection means may be included in the sensing unit 140 (see FIG. 7).

The deformation detection means is provided in the flexible display unit 251 or the bodies 201 and 202, and can detect information related to deformation of the flexible display unit 251. Here, information related to deformation may include the direction in which the flexible display unit 251 is deformed, the degree of deformation, the deformed position, the deformed time, and the acceleration at which the deformed flexible display unit 251 is restored. In addition, various information may be sensed due to the bending of the flexible display unit 251.

In addition, the control unit 180 (see FIG. 7) changes or moves information displayed on the flexible display unit 251 based on information related to the deformation of the flexible display unit 251 detected by the deformation detection means. A control signal for controlling the functions of the terminal 200 can be generated.

Changes in the state of the flexible display unit 251 are not limited to external forces. For example, when the flexible display unit 251 is in the first state, it may be transformed into the second state by a command from the user or application.

The mobile terminal 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a housing that can be folded and unfolded. The housing may be a case (eg, frame, cover, etc.) that forms the exterior of the mobile terminal. The housing includes a plurality of cases, and various electronic components are placed in the internal space formed by combining them.

According to the illustration, the housing may be provided on first and second bodies 201 and 202 that are rotatably connected to each other. The flexible display unit 251 is coupled to one surface of the housing and is formed to be deformable. Here, the body can be understood as a concept that refers to the mobile terminal 100 by viewing it as at least one aggregate.

The first body 201 supports one area of the flexible display unit 251, and the second body 202 supports another area of the flexible display unit 251. A plurality of electronic components for driving the mobile terminal 200 are mounted on at least one region of the first and second bodies 201 and 202.

The first and second bodies 201 and 202 are connected to each other and rotate relative to each other at an angle, and through this, the flexible display unit 251 is bent, and the flexible display unit 251 has at least one area. It becomes a folded state (folded state, second state) that folds to overlap.

Figure 8 (a) is a conceptual diagram showing the unfolding (unfolded state, first state) of the flexible display unit 251, and Figure 8 (b) is a conceptual diagram showing the flexible display unit 251 in the folded state. This is a conceptual diagram showing the state of folding (second state).

Although only the first and second states are shown in the drawing, there is also a state in which the angle formed between one area of the flexible display unit 251 and the remaining area is changed while being transformed from the first state to the second state. .

In the second state, the first and second bodies 201 and 202 overlap each other, and the space between one area and the other area of the flexible display unit 251 is bent to form a curved surface. In this case, the portion forming the curved surface may become the bent portion 252. That is, a bent portion 252 that is bent by folding the housing 210 may be formed in the flexible display unit 251.

Meanwhile, in the mobile terminal, the first and second bodies 201 and 202 may be rotatably connected to each other by a hinge portion 230. That is, the hinge portion 230 connects the first and second bodies 201 and 202 to enable relative rotation, and is disposed between the first and second bodies 201 and 202. The flexible display unit 251 is disposed on one side of the first and second bodies 201 and 202, and is folded and unfolded by the relative rotation.

In this case, the hinge portion 230 may have the structure of the hinge portion described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6 .

For example, the hinge segments 240 of the hinge portion 230 connect the first and second bodies 201 and 202 to enable relative rotation, and the flexible display unit 251 rotates relative to each other. It is made to fold and unfold. In this case, in this example, the flexible frame 220 is disposed on the back of the flexible display unit 251 and folds and unfolds together with the flexible display unit 251.

In the foldable mobile terminal 200, there is a limit to the bending radius of the flexible display. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the difference between the length of the bent portion 252 and the plane length in folding and unfolding operations. In order to offset this change in length, in this example, the flexible display unit 251 is connected to the hinge segments 240 and the flexible frame 220 so that the rotation centers of the hinge are placed on both sides of the flexible display unit 251. placed between them.

For example, a flexible frame 220 may be disposed on the back of the flexible display unit 251. The flexible frame 220 may be formed to have a size equal to or smaller than the flexible display unit 251 in the X direction. Accordingly, the protrusions 242 of the hinge segments 240 may be disposed on both sides of the flexible display unit 251 and the flexible frame 220, respectively. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this, and the flexible frame 220 may be slightly larger than the flexible display unit 251 in the X direction.

The first flexible portion 221 (see FIG. 6 below) of the flexible frame 220 is formed in the middle portion of the flexible frame 220 and supports the bent portion 252 of the flexible display unit 251. The rigid portion 226 (see FIG. 6 below) is arranged to cover the first body 201 and the second body 202, and supports the flexible display unit 251 in a flat state on both sides of the bent portion 252. . At this time, the protrusions 242 of the hinge segments 240 may be disposed at both corners of the first flexible portion 221, respectively.

According to the figure, when the second body 202 is overlapped with the first body 201, the flexible display unit 251 is bent due to external force. The first flexible portion 221 is bent to a first curvature, the second flexible portion 222 (see FIG. 6 below) is bent to a second curvature, and the rigid portion 226 is arranged to face each other. In this case, since the hinge portion 230 is disposed on both sides of the flexible frame 220, the bent cross-sectional shape of the first flexible portion 221 may overlap with the rotation center of the hinge portion 230. From another perspective, the curved cross-sectional shape of the bent portion 252 of the flexible display unit 251 may overlap with the rotation center of the hinge portion 230. At this time, the center of rotation may be a part of the other end or protrusion 242 of the hinge segments 240 in the structure of the hinge portion 230 described above.

A neutral line NL of the plurality of hinge segments 240 that does not change in length when the flexible display unit 251 is folded and unfolded is formed along the other end. The hinge segments 240 are sequentially coupled to the corners of the flexible frame 220 at the other end so that the neutral line NL is located at the corner of the flexible frame 220. Referring to the above-described example, the other end may specifically be the protrusion 242 of the hinge segments 240.

In this way, since the other end of the hinge segments 240 or a portion of the protrusion 242 is coupled to the edge of the flexible frame 220, the rotation center can be formed along the edge of the flexible frame 220. there is. In this case, the joint portion of the hinge segments 240 and the flexible frame 220 forms a neutral line (NL) whose length does not change even when the flexible display unit 251 is folded and unfolded. The neutral line (NL) becomes the center of rotation of the hinge segments 240. Additionally, since the flexible display unit 251 is disposed on the upper surface of the flexible frame 220, the flexible display unit 251 is located at the rotation center of the hinge segments 240.

Referring to (a) and (b) of FIG. 9A, since the flexible display unit 251 is disposed on the front side of the first body 201 and the second body 202 facing each other when folded, the flexible display unit 251 is unfolded. During the state transition from to folding, the change in spacing between the hinge segments 240 increases as the distance from the front surface increases. According to this structure, the flexible display unit can be located on the neutral line (NL) of the flexible display device.

Compared to Figure 9b, which shows a conventional multi-axis hinge, in a structure in which the rotation center is formed around the hinge axis, the neutral line (NLa) of the flexible display device is formed along the rotation axis (RA). Accordingly, a neutral line is formed at a position spaced apart from the flexible display unit 251a. On the other hand, in this example, as shown in (b) of FIG. 9A, the corner of the flexible frame 220 becomes the rotation center of the hinge portion 230, and therefore the neutral line NL of the flexible display device is located at the center of the flexible frame 220. ) becomes the corner. In this case, the thickness of the flexible frame 220 is thin, so the flexible display unit 251 is substantially located at the neutral line NL of the flexible display device.

In the above, the positional relationship between the flexible frame 220, the flexible display unit 251, and the hinge unit 230 has been described, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and a configuration without the flexible frame 220 is also possible. do.

Meanwhile, one of the first body 201 and the second body 202 is formed with a body protrusion 245 that is received in the receiving groove 244 provided in one of the hinge segments 240. Additionally, a body groove into which a protrusion 245 provided on the other one of the hinge segments 240 is inserted may be formed in the other one of the first body 201 and the second body 202. Through this structure, the hinge segments 240 can be disposed between the first body 201 and the second body 202. As a more specific example, a body groove 201a is formed at an end of the first body 201 close to the hinge portion 230, and a protrusion (246) of the outermost hinge segment 246 among the hinge segments 240 is formed. 245) is accommodated in the body groove 201a. On the other hand, a body protrusion 245 is formed at an end of the second body 202 close to the hinge portion 230, and the body protrusion 245 is the opposite outermost hinge segment of the hinge segments 240. It can be accommodated in the receiving groove 244 of (247).

Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 9A together with 8, the gap between the first body 201 and the second body 202 gradually becomes farther apart in the second state than in the first state when changing from the unfolded state to the folded state. do. In this case, in the second state, the space between the ends of the first body 201 and the second body 202 becomes large. In the process of folding the flexible display unit 251, the protrusion 245 moves in a direction away from the receiving groove 244, but even in this case, the protrusion 245 is at least partially in the receiving groove 244. It is accommodated, and through this, the space between them can be covered by the hinge segment 240. Therefore, according to the above structure, a separate blocking member is not required, and a new mechanism that can cover the space between the bodies while being slim in a flexible display device is provided.

In the above, the case where the hinge part of the present invention is applied to a two-stage folding structure has been described, but the hinge part can be expanded to a three-stage folding structure. Hereinafter, this three-stage folding structure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining another embodiment of a flexible display device to which the hinge portion of the present invention is applied, FIG. 11 is an operation diagram showing the operation of the flexible display device of FIG. 10, and FIG. 12 is a diagram of the flexible display device of FIG. 10. This is an exploded view, and FIGS. 13 and 14 are exploded views and cross-sectional views showing a modified example of the flexible display device of FIG. 10.

The mobile terminal according to this example may include a base body 303, a first body 301, and a second body 302, along with a flexible display unit 351 that can be deformed by external force.

The base body 303 may be a body surrounded by the flexible display unit when the flexible display unit is folded.

The base body 303 includes a case (eg, frame, housing, cover, etc.) that forms the exterior. As shown, the base body 303 may include a front case and a rear case. Various electronic components are placed in the internal space formed by the combination of the front case and the rear case. These electronic components may include, in particular, non-flexible components such as batteries, main circuit boards, identification modules, memory cards, audio output units, and microphones. In this case, at least one middle case may be additionally disposed between the front case and the rear case. These cases may be formed by injection molding of synthetic resin or may be made of metal, such as stainless steel (STS), aluminum (Al), or titanium (Ti).

A protruding border 304 may be formed along an edge of the base body 303 to provide a space surrounding the flexible display unit 351. The protruding edge 304 is formed to face a corner of the flexible display unit 351 while the flexible display unit 351 surrounds the base body 303.

According to the illustration, the flexible display unit 351 is rotatably connected to one side of the base body 303. At least a portion of the other side of the base body 303, which is opposite to one side of the base body 303, is formed as a curved surface, and the hinge segments 240 of the above-described hinge portion 230 are connected to the flexible display portion 351. Surrounding the base body 303, it is sequentially arranged along the curved surface of the base body 303. According to this structure, as shown in FIG. 11, in addition to the unfolded first state and the folded second state, the flexible display unit 351 has the base body 303. A third state that is wrapped and folded can be defined. In this case, the second state refers to a state in which the flexible display unit does not surround the base body 303 but is folded.

As a more specific example, housings may be provided on first and second bodies 301 and 302 that are rotatably connected to each other. The flexible display unit 351 is coupled to one surface of the housing and is formed to be deformable.

The first body 301 supports one area of the flexible display unit 351, and the second body 302 supports another area (remaining area) of the flexible display unit 351. A plurality of electronic components for driving the mobile terminal 300 are mounted on at least one region of the first and second bodies 301 and 302.

The first and second bodies 301 and 302 are connected and rotate relative to each other at an angle in the first state, and through this, the flexible display unit 351 is bent and converted to the second state. In this case, when the flexible display unit 351 is folded while surrounding the base body 303, it enters a third state. For this operation, the first body 301 is rotatably coupled to the base body 303. For example, a base hinge portion 360 having a hinge axis is disposed between the first body 301 and the base body 303, and the first body and the base body 303 are centered around the hinge axis. It rotates relative to the other. In this way, the first body 301 is rotatably coupled to the base body 303. Meanwhile, an elastic force providing part that pulls the flexible display unit 351 may be disposed in the second body 302.

In the second and third states, the first and second bodies 301 and 302 overlap each other, and the space between one area and the other area of the flexible display unit 351 has a curved surface. It bends as it is achieved. In this case, the portion forming the curved surface may become the bent portion 352. That is, a bent portion 352 that is bent by folding the housing may be formed in the flexible display unit 351.

Meanwhile, in the mobile terminal, the first and second bodies 301 and 302 may be rotatably connected to each other by a hinge portion 230. That is, the hinge portion 230 connects the first and second bodies 301 and 302 to enable relative rotation, and is disposed between the first and second bodies 301 and 302. The flexible display unit 351 is disposed on one side of the first and second bodies 301 and 302, and is folded and unfolded by the relative rotation.

In this case, the hinge portion 230 may have the structure of the hinge portion described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6 . Therefore, in this example, the hinge segments 240 connect the first body 301 and the second body 302 to enable relative rotation, and through this, the first body 301 and the second body 302 covers both sides of the base body 303 in the third state. Additionally, the hinge segments 240 surround the end of the base body 303 on the opposite side from the base hinge portion 360 in the third state. That is, the base hinge portion 360 is disposed at one end of the base body 303, and the other end of the base body 303 is formed as a curved surface so that the hinge segments 240 can surround it. According to this structure, the flexible display unit 351 covers the base body 303 in the third state and surrounds the base body 303, and a three-stage inner folding type flexible display device is implemented. .

Meanwhile, in this example, the hinge segments 340 may have a separate and complementary structure to prevent them from being separated from the flexible frame due to external shock, etc. Referring to Figures 13 and 14, a through hole 348 is formed in the base portion 341 of the hinge segments 340, and an elastic member 370 can be inserted into the through hole 348.

The elastic member 370 may be a superelastic wire, flexinol muscle wire, shape memory alloy wire, etc. The elastic member 370 has one end fixed to the first body 301 and the other end fixed to the second body 302, and is arranged to penetrate the through hole 348. Additionally, the elastic members 370 may be comprised of a plurality of elastic members 370 and may be sequentially arranged along the Y direction.

In the above, the three-stage inner folding type flexible display device and the separate and complementary structure of the hinge segments 340 applicable to examples of the present invention have been described. Meanwhile, the hinge part of the present invention can also be applied to a three-stage outer folding type flexible display device, which will be described below.

Figure 15 is a conceptual diagram for explaining another embodiment of a flexible display device to which the hinge portion of the present invention is applied.

The mobile terminal according to this example, like the example described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12, includes a flexible display unit 451 that can be deformed by external force, a base body 403, a first body 401, and A second body 402 may be provided.

The base body 403 may be a body surrounded by the flexible display unit 451 when the flexible display unit 451 is folded, and a detailed description of this is provided with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12. Replace with

In this example as well, the flexible display unit 451 is rotatably connected to one side of the base body 403. At least a portion of the other side of the base body 403, which is opposite to one side of the base body 403, is formed as a curved surface, and the hinge segments 440 of the aforementioned hinge portion 430 are connected to the flexible display portion 451. Surrounding the base body 403, it is sequentially arranged along the curved surface of the base body 403. According to this structure, as in the above-described example, in addition to the unfolded first state and the folded second state, the flexible display unit 451 folds while surrounding the base body 403. A third state can be defined. However, in this example, the rear surfaces of the first and second bodies on which the flexible display unit 451 is disposed cover the base body 403 so that the flexible display unit 451 is exposed to the outside in the third state. .

In the mobile terminal, the first and second bodies 201 and 202 may be rotatably connected to each other by the hinge portion 430 of the present invention. However, in this case, the neutral line of the hinge portion may be formed outside the hinge segments 440.

More specifically, the neutral line of the plurality of hinge segments 440, which does not change in length when folding and unfolding the flexible display unit 451, is formed along the other end of the hinge segments 440, The other end is disposed farther from the base body 403 than one end of the hinge segments 240 in the third state.

In this case, the distance between one end of the plurality of hinge segments 440 may be changed to become closer to each other when folded. Accordingly, the hinge segments 440 may be formed so that the distance between the one ends of the hinge segments 440 is greater in the first state than in the second state or the third state. According to the structure of these hinge segments 440, a three-stage outer folding type flexible display device can be implemented.

The flexible display device described above is not limited to the configuration and method of the embodiments described above, but the embodiments are configured by selectively combining all or part of each embodiment so that various modifications can be made. It could be.

Claims (20)

A flexible display unit formed to be deformable;
a flexible frame disposed on the back of the flexible display unit and folding and unfolding together with the flexible display unit; and
It includes a plurality of hinge segments connected to the flexible frame,
The hinge segments are sequentially arranged along the edge of the flexible frame and are coupled to the flexible frame at the other end so that the gap at one end changes by folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit,
Each of the hinge segments includes a base portion and protrusions on both sides of the base portion that protrude higher than the flexible frame with respect to the base portion to form the other end,
A flexible display device, wherein a side of the protrusion is coupled to a corner of the flexible frame. According to paragraph 1,
A flexible display device, wherein a neutral line of the plurality of hinge segments that does not change in length when the flexible display unit is folded and unfolded is formed along the other end. According to paragraph 2,
A flexible display device, wherein the plurality of hinge segments are coupled to the corner at the other end so that the neutral line is located at a corner of the flexible frame. delete According to paragraph 1,
The base portion is arranged to face the back of the flexible frame,
A flexible display device, characterized in that a separation space is formed between the upper surface of the base portion and the rear surface of the flexible frame. According to paragraph 1,
A receiving groove is formed on one side of the base portion,
A flexible display device, wherein a protrusion is formed on the other side of the base portion to be received in accommodating grooves of adjacent hinge segments when the flexible display portion is unfolded. According to clause 6,
A flexible display device, wherein the protrusion moves in a direction away from the receiving groove of the adjacent hinge segment when the flexible display unit is folded. According to paragraph 1,
The flexible frame has a flexible area where through holes are repeatedly arranged,
A flexible display device, wherein the hinge segments are arranged to overlap the flexible area. According to paragraph 1,
The hinge segments and the flexible frame are each formed of a metal material,
A flexible display device, characterized in that a joint provided with a brazing welding agent is disposed between the hinge segments and the flexible frame. According to clause 9,
A flexible display device, wherein the flexible frame is made of titanium, stainless steel, or an amorphous alloy, and the hinge segments are made of stainless steel. According to clause 9,
A flexible display device, wherein the brazing welding agent includes an amorphous alloy. According to paragraph 1,
Further comprising a first body and a second body on which the flexible display unit is disposed,
The hinge segments connect the first body and the second body to enable relative rotation, and the flexible display unit is folded and unfolded by the relative rotation. According to clause 12,
The flexible display unit is disposed on front surfaces of the first body and the second body facing each other when the flexible display unit is folded,
A flexible display device, wherein the change in spacing of the hinge segments increases as the distance from the front surface increases. According to clause 12,
A body protrusion is formed on one of the first body and the second body to be received in a receiving groove provided in one of the hinge segments,
A flexible display device, wherein the other of the first body and the second body is formed with a body groove into which a protrusion provided on the other of the hinge segments is inserted. According to paragraph 1,
Further comprising a base body surrounded by the flexible display unit when the flexible display unit is folded,
A flexible display device, wherein the flexible display unit is rotatably connected to one side of the base body. According to clause 15,
The other side of the base body, which is opposite to one side of the base body, is at least partially formed as a curved surface,
A flexible display device, wherein the hinge segments are sequentially arranged along the curved surface of the base body while the flexible display unit surrounds the base body. According to clause 16,
Further comprising a first body and a second body on which the flexible display unit is disposed,
The hinge segments connect the first body and the second body to enable relative rotation, and the first body and the second body cover both sides of the base body when the flexible display unit surrounds the base body. flexible display device. According to paragraph 1,
A flexible display device, wherein a through hole is formed in the hinge segment, and an elastic member is inserted into the through hole. first body and second body;
a hinge unit connecting the first body and the second body to enable relative rotation;
a flexible display unit disposed on one side of the first body and the second body and folding and unfolding by the relative rotation; and
It includes a flexible frame disposed on the back of the flexible display unit and folding and unfolding together with the flexible display unit,
The hinge unit has a plurality of hinge segments sequentially coupled to the corners of the flexible frame at the ends so that a neutral line of the hinge unit that does not change in length due to folding and unfolding of the flexible display unit is formed at the corner of the flexible frame. And
Each of the hinge segments includes a base portion and protrusions on both sides of the base portion that protrude higher than the flexible frame with respect to the base portion and form ends of the hinge portion,
A flexible display device, wherein a side of the protrusion is coupled to a corner of the flexible frame. According to clause 19,
A flexible display device, characterized in that the sides of the protrusions of the hinge segments are sequentially brazed to the corners of the flexible frame.

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