KR20210058148A - Flexible display apparatus using shape memory member - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a flexible display apparatus using a shape memory member to maximize convenience when a display is used. According to the present invention, the flexible display apparatus comprises: a main body; a display disposed on the front surface of the main body, formed longer than the width of the front surface of the main body, and formed to be bendable; and a shape memory member disposed adjacent to the display and supporting at least a portion of the display. The display can be bent to be disposed adjacently along the side and rear surfaces of the main body. The shape memory member is deformed on the rear surface of the display as the display is bent, and is restored when it reaches a preset temperature range so that the display is unfolded.

Description

Flexible display device using shape memory member {FLEXIBLE DISPLAY APPARATUS USING SHAPE MEMORY MEMBER}

The present invention relates to a flexible display device using a shape memory member, and specifically relates to a flexible display device using a shape memory member capable of unfolding a display that can be bent or unfolded using a shape memory member.

Existing flat panel display panels have limitations in their applications and uses because they use inflexible glass substrates. Accordingly, in recent years, a flexible display device that can bend using a flexible substrate such as plastic or the like instead of a non-flexible glass substrate has attracted attention as a new display device.

Currently, the topic of the mobile terminal market called smartphone is the technology related to the foldable display, which is bent. In addition, in portable notebooks, tablet PCs, and TVs, the shape of the display changes according to the advancement of technology and demands of consumers.

Looking at the changes in the existing display, there has been a competition to increase and sharpen the size of the screen attached to the main body mainly by using a liquid crystal display (LCD). However, since the mobile terminal is a portable product, there is a limit to simply increasing the size of the display.

Currently, organic light-emitting displays (OLEDs) are widely used as displays of mobile terminals. The organic light-emitting display does not need a separate light source, that is, a backlight, because it emits color by self-emission. For this reason, the thickness of the organic light emitting display is thinner than that of a liquid crystal display device and can be easily bent, so that it is possible to develop various products.

Therefore, a foldable display including a rollable display that can flexibly bend with the use of an organic light emitting display is currently being studied. This is because while providing a larger screen than before, the size is reduced by folding the display that is not normally used. In addition, portability increases when the display portion that is not in use is folded.

Some of the prior art has released a display foldable mobile terminal, but it does not deviate from the limitations of the mechanical structure, and mainly uses a structure of a hinge. For this reason, there was a problem that the size of the screen compared to the cost did not meet expectations. The thickness of the main body was also inevitably thicker compared to the screen size.

An object of the present invention is to provide a flexible display device using a shape memory member that realizes flatness when the display is unfolded using a flexible display and a shape memory member, and that can be easily folded and made into a small size.

A flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention includes a body, a display disposed on a front surface of the body, formed longer than a width of the front surface of the body, and formed to be bent, and the It is disposed adjacent to the display, and includes a shape memory member for supporting at least a portion of the display, the display is bent to be disposed adjacently along the side and rear surfaces of the body, the shape memory member, the display As is bent, it is deformed on the rear surface of the display, and when it reaches a preset temperature range, it is restored and the display is unfolded.

In a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the display includes a first surface corresponding to a width of the front surface of the body, and extending to both sides of the first surface, and the side or rear surface of the body It may include a second surface made to be bent in close proximity to.

In a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the display is made to be bent between the first and second surfaces, and the second surface is in contact with the side of the body when bent. It may include a side portion and a rear portion disposed close to the rear surface of the body.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, a molding part surrounding a rear surface of the rear part of the display may be further included, and the shape memory member may be disposed at the top and bottom of the molding part.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, an insertion hole into which the shape memory member is inserted may be formed at the top and bottom of the molding part.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, an elastic body for pressing the shape memory member in a direction away from the inner end of the insertion hole may be further included at an inner end of the insertion hole.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the molding part supports the display disposed on the front side, and at the end of the insertion hole, the holding part in which the shape memory member is disposed, and An extension portion extending further outward may be included, and the extension portion may have a thickness thinner than that of the holding portion.

In the flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the body further includes a sensing unit disposed on the side of the body and detecting whether the display is disposed adjacent to the side of the body, When detecting that the display is disposed adjacent to the side of the body, the sensing unit may generate a signal so that at least a portion of the second surface of the display is turned off.

In a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the molding part is rotatably coupled to the rear surface of the body, and the display is bent so that the molding part is disposed adjacent to the rear surface of the body. It may include a rear cover that is formed so as to be.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the rear cover further includes a support disposed inside, and the support has one end supported on the rear surface of the body, and the other end supported on the rear cover. It may be configured to be movable as possible.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the rear cover is formed to cover at least a part of the display disposed on the side of the body when combined with the body, and covers the side of the body. On at least part of the display, a manipulation unit capable of controlling a function of a driven application may be displayed.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, further comprising a protective tube interposed between the molding part and the body, wherein the protective tube wraps the shape memory member at the top and bottom of the side portion. I can.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the protective tube may be disposed to be spaced apart from the display.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, one end of the protective tube may contact the molding part, and the other end of the protective tube may be inserted into the body.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the body may further include a shape control unit that applies current or transfers heat to the shape memory member.

A flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention includes a display including a body, a first surface corresponding to a front surface of the body, and a second surface on both sides from the first surface, and adjacent to the display. It is arranged in a straight line or at both ends of the body in an original state, and includes a shape memory member that is bent by an external force, and the display and the shape memory member are pressed by an external force. When the second surface is bent toward the rear surface of the body, and the shape memory member reaches a preset temperature range, the display bent by the restoring force to be restored to the original state of the shape memory member is restored to the original state. It is made possible.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, further comprising a molding unit surrounding at least a portion of the rear surface of the second surface, wherein the molding unit is disposed to be spaced apart from the body in a flat unfolded state. I can.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an aspect of the present invention, the molding unit further includes a support protrusion protruding from the upper and lower ends to the front, and the display includes a support protrusion disposed at the upper end and the lower end. It may be disposed between the supporting protrusions.

A flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention may cover a display that is folded toward the rear of the body by having a rear cover. Through this, a larger screen can be easily implemented. In addition, by opening the display when you want to use a large screen, and folding the display when using a small screen, you can maximize the convenience when using the display.

A flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention has a simple mechanical structure and easy product production because the display can be bent or unfolded using a shape memory member, a molding part, and an elastic body. Accordingly, the product design is easier, the thickness is thin, the weight is light, the cost of the part is cheap, and the manufacturing is easy compared to the conventional folding structure using a hinge.

In the flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the second side of the display is unfolded using the shape memory member, the display expands to the left and right of the body as well as the corresponding display portion of the body. , It has the advantage of providing a very large display compared to the size of the body.

In the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the display that is bent and disposed on the rear surface of the body has no other structure other than the molding portion surrounding the rear surface of the display, the overall thickness of the device can be reduced. have.

1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is an exemplary view for explaining a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention.
3 is an exemplary view for explaining a state cut along A of FIG. 1A (a).
4 is an exemplary view illustrating a side side of a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is an exemplary view for explaining a state cut along V-V of FIG. 2.
6 is an exemplary diagram for explaining a state cut along VI-VI of FIG. 2.

The present invention is intended to illustrate specific embodiments and to be described in detail in the detailed description, since various transformations may be applied and various embodiments may be provided. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to a specific embodiment, it should be understood to include all conversions, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The terms used in the present invention are used only to describe specific embodiments, and are not intended to limit the present invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In the present invention, terms such as'include' or'have' are intended to designate the presence of features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or a combination thereof described in the specification, but one or more other features. It is to be understood that the presence or addition of elements or numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof does not preclude in advance.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this case, it should be noted that in the accompanying drawings, the same components are indicated by the same reference numerals as possible. In addition, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations that may obscure the subject matter of the present invention will be omitted. For the same reason, some elements in the accompanying drawings are exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated.

1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is an exemplary view for explaining a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention. 3 is an exemplary view for explaining a state cut along A of FIG. 1A (a). 4 is an exemplary view illustrating a side side of a flexible display device using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

First, (a) of FIG. 1A shows a state in which the display is folded to the rear surface of the body and the rear cover is coupled to the body. Figure 1a (b) shows a state that the rear cover covering the rear surface of the body is opened from the body. FIG. 1B(a) shows the unfolded display of the display covering the back and side surfaces of the body. Figure 1b (b) shows a state in which the display is fully unfolded.

Display devices described herein include mobile phones, smart phones, laptop computers, digital broadcasting terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), navigation systems, and slate PCs. , Tablet PC (tablet PC), ultrabook (ultrabook), wearable device (wearable device, for example, smartwatch, glass-type terminal (smart glass), HMD (head mounted display)), etc. may be included. have.

However, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the configuration according to the embodiment described in the present specification may also be applied to fixed terminals such as digital TVs, desktop computers, and digital signage, except when applicable only to a display device. will be.

A flexible display device A using a shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a body 100, a display 200, and a shape memory member 300.

The body 100 may have a substantially rectangular shape and have a thin thickness. The body 100 may include a wireless communication unit capable of communicating therein. The wireless communication unit may include one or more modules that enable wireless communication between a mobile terminal and a wireless communication system, between a mobile terminal and another mobile terminal, or between a mobile terminal and an external server. In addition, the wireless communication unit may include one or more modules for connecting the mobile terminal to one or more networks.

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

In addition, the body 100 may include an input unit. The input unit includes a camera or video input unit for inputting an image signal, a microphone or an audio input unit for inputting an audio signal, and a user input unit 230 for receiving information from a user (for example, a touch key), It may include a push key (mechanical key), etc. The voice data or image data collected by the input unit may be analyzed and processed as a user's control command.

In addition, the body 100 may include a sensing unit. The sensing unit may include one or more sensors for sensing at least one of information in the mobile terminal, information on surrounding environments surrounding the mobile terminal, and user information. For example, the sensing unit is a proximity sensor, an illumination sensor, a touch sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a gravity sensor, and a gyro. Scope sensor, motion sensor, RGB sensor, infrared sensor (IR sensor), finger scan sensor, ultrasonic sensor, optical sensor, e.g. For example, a camera), a microphone (see), a battery gauge, an environmental sensor (e.g., a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation sensor, a heat sensor, a gas detection sensor, etc.), a chemical sensor ( For example, it may include at least one of an electronic nose, a healthcare sensor, a biometric sensor, etc.). Meanwhile, the mobile terminal disclosed in the present specification may combine and utilize information sensed by at least two or more of these sensors.

The display 200 is disposed on the front surface of the body 100, is formed to be longer than the width of the front surface of the body 100, and is formed to be bent. Specifically, referring to (a) to (d) of FIG. 1, the display 200 may be deformed from a state fully unfolded on the front side of the body 100 to a state bent so as to partially cover the side and rear surfaces of the body 100. I can. Also, the display 200 may be further bent toward the front. In this case, the display 200 may have a curved shape in which both ends are bent toward the front.

The display 200 can be easily bent by an external force. A portion of the display 200, specifically, the display 200 extending away from the front surface of the body 100 may be bent so as to be disposed adjacently along the side and rear surfaces of the body 100.

In this case, the display 200 may have a very thin thickness so as to be advantageous for bending. For example, the display 200 may have a thickness of 0.1 mm to 1 mm. The display 200 may be formed in the form of a film. The display 200 may be formed of an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) or the like. As the display 200 has such a thin thickness, the display 200 may be bent more easily due to less stress concentration due to bending.

Referring to FIG. 2, the display 200 extends to both sides of the first surface 210 and the first surface 210 corresponding to the width of the front surface of the body 100, and the side or rear surface of the body 100 It may include a second surface 220 made to be bent in close proximity to. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, a first surface 210 corresponding to the front surface of the body 100 and a second surface 220 extending to both sides of the first surface 210 are included.

Between the first surface 210 and the side portion 222 of the second surface may be bent. 1B and 2, the second surface 220 of the display 200 may be disposed adjacent to a side surface of the body 100 and a rear surface of the body 100. Here, the front surface of the body 100 is a surface in which the body 100 and the display 200 are always in contact. When an external force of a certain level or more is applied to the second surface 220 of the display 200, the display 200 may be bent. In this case, the second surface 220 may include a side portion 222 in contact with a side surface of the body 100 when bent, and a rear surface portion 224 disposed adjacent to the rear surface of the body 100.

On the other hand, it further includes a molding unit 400 surrounding the rear surface of the rear surface portion 224 of the display 200. Referring to FIG. 2, the molding unit 400 covers the entire rear surface 224 of the display 200. Through this, it is possible to prevent the display 200 from being damaged by external pressure.

The shape memory member 300 is disposed adjacent to the display 200 and supports the display 200. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2, the shape memory member 300 may be disposed at the top and bottom of the molding unit 400 so as not to overlap with the display 200. However, unlike the foregoing, for design reasons, the shape memory member 300 may be disposed on the rear surface of the display 200 and may be disposed to overlap the display 200. Meanwhile, the shape memory member 300 may be configured in a plate shape, that is, a quadrangular shape in cross section, and may be entirely disposed on the rear surface of the display 200.

The shape memory member 300 is deformed on the rear surface of the display 200 as the display 200 is bent. That is, as the display 200 is bent, the relative position of the molding unit 400 surrounding the rear surface of the display 200 with the body 100 changes. Specifically, when the display 200 is in an unfolded state (refer to (b) of FIG. 1B), the molding unit 400 is disposed with a gap on the side of the body 100, and the molding unit is in a folded state ( In the case of (a) of FIG. 1A)), it is disposed adjacent to the rear side of the body 100.

Accordingly, the shape memory member 300 extending from the body 100 and inserted into the molding part 400 is deformed. The shape memory member 300 has a linear shape when it is in an unfolded state, and has a bent shape when it is in a folded state. In addition, the shape memory member 300 may be formed thicker than the display 200. Since the shape memory member 300 needs to unfold the display 200 according to the property of returning to its original state when it reaches a certain temperature by receiving heat, the shape memory member 300 may have a thickness of approximately 0.2 to 2 mm.

When the shape memory member 300 reaches within a preset temperature range, it is restored to its original shape and the display 200 is unfolded. As shown in Figure 1b (b) or 2, the original shape of the shape memory member 300, it is a state unfolded in a straight line. Alternatively, unlike illustrated, the shape memory member may have a shape in which both ends are slightly bent toward the front side of the body 100. This is to enable the shape memory member to more easily make the display in an unfolded state due to deterioration of the shape memory member or the like. In order to increase the degree of immersion, it can be intentionally bent to the front. In addition, as will be described below, the protective tube or the shape memory member can be prevented from being bent toward the front by a considerable amount.

The shape memory member 300 can be easily deformed when an external force is applied. However, the shape memory member 300 generates a force that is restored to its original shape within a predetermined temperature range. By using this, after folding the display 200 by bending the display 200 at room temperature, heat is applied to the shape memory member 300 to return the display 200 to a flat state again.

Specifically, referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the display 200 may be bent or unfolded. In this case, the second surface 220 of the display 200 is pressed so that the second surface 220 of the display 200 may be bent with respect to the first surface 210. In addition, the bent display 200 may return to its original flat state again by the restoring force of the shape memory member 300 having an increased temperature. That is, according to the operation of the shape control unit 150 to be described below, the original state of the linear state may be restored.

The shape memory member 300 may be made of a conductive metal material. For example, the shape memory member 300 may be made of a shape-memory alloy. The shape memory member 300 may be made of a nickel-titanium alloy, a copper-zinc alloy, a gold-cadmium alloy, an indium-thallium alloy, or the like. Accordingly, the shape memory member 300 may be restored to its original state at a preset temperature, for example, between 50 degrees and 70 degrees. Due to the force of the shape memory member 300 to be restored to its original state at a constant temperature, the molding unit 400 disposed adjacent to the rear surface of the body 100 moves toward the side of the body 100 and the display 200 Can be spread flat.

The body 100 may further include a shape control unit 150 that applies current, transfers heat, or exchanges heat to the shape memory member 300. The shape control unit 150 may play a role of temperature control for controlling the temperature of the shape memory member 300. In this case, the shape control unit 150 may control the temperature by applying heat or cooling the shape memory member 300.

The shape control unit 150 may be made of nichrome. Current or heat is applied to the shape control unit 150 to increase the temperature, and the heat is transferred to the shape memory member 300 so that the shape memory member 300 is restored to its original state.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the shape memory member 300 extends from the body 100 to both sides. In addition, a shape control unit 150 in contact with the shape memory member 300 may be disposed on the body 100. The shape control unit 150 may transfer heat or apply current to the shape memory member 300. The shape control unit 150 applies current or heat to the shape memory member 300 so that the shape memory member 300 reaches the above-described predetermined temperature and returns to its original shape. By the restoring force of the shape memory member 300, the display 200 may return to a flat unfolded state.

Meanwhile, the shape control unit 150 is a metal having resistance by itself, and current is transmitted to the shape control unit 150 by an electric signal, so that the temperature of the shape control unit 150 may be increased. As the temperature of the shape control unit 150 increases, the temperature of the shape memory member 300 in contact with the shape control unit 150 increases, and the shape memory member 300 can be restored to its original state.

Hereinafter, a process of returning the display 200 folded to the rear of the body 100 to its original state will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B.

As described above, (a) of FIG. 1A shows a state in which the display 200 is folded to the rear surface of the body 100 and the rear cover 140 is coupled to the body 100, that is, a folded state. In general, it is possible to use a flexible display device (A) using a shape memory member in this form.

FIG. 1A(b) shows a state in which the rear cover 140 covering the rear surface of the body 100 is opened from the body 100.

The body 100 may include a button 170 on the upper surface that can open the rear cover 140. Since the rear cover 140 is coupled to the lower end of the body 100 and opens in a rotational direction, a button 170 capable of opening the rear cover 140 is preferably provided at the upper end of the body 100.

The rear cover 140 can be opened from the body 100 by a button 170 that can open the rear cover 140. When the rear cover 140 is opened from the body 100, the second surface 220 of the display 200 disposed on the rear side of the body 100 may be exposed to the outside. The rear cover 140 and the body 100 may be connected by a rotatable member such as a tension spring.

A locking protrusion 143 may be provided at an upper end of the rear side of the rear cover 140 so that the rear cover 140 and the body 100 can be opened and closed relatively by the button 170 described above.

Referring to FIG. 4, the locking protrusion 143 is inserted into an opening formed inside the body 100 so that the body 100 and the rear cover 140 can be coupled to each other. At this time, when the button 170 is pressed, the elastic body 172 in the opening is pressed so that the locking protrusion 143 is moved away from the opening. Accordingly, the locking protrusion 143 may be separated from the body 100 so that the rear cover 140 and the body 100 may be separated.

Referring to FIG. 1A, the rear cover 140 may include a support 145. By the support 145, the rear cover 140 is not closed again with respect to the body 100, and can be maintained at a corresponding position. Through this, the rear cover 140 may serve as a pedestal for a flexible display device using a shape memory member.

The support 145 may be located at the inner center of the rear cover 140. The support 145 may be moved through a method such as sliding after the display 200 folded to the rear surface of the body 100 is unfolded. One surface of the support 145 supports the rear surface of the body 100 and the other surface of the support 145 supports the rear cover 140, so that the rear cover 140 rotates again, and the body 100 Can be prevented from being closed.

Meanwhile, the support 145 may not be disposed on the rear cover 140, but may be disposed on the body 100, or may be disposed on both the body 100 and the rear cover 140.

In addition, a protective member made of a soft material may be added to the inside of the rear cover 140 so as not to damage the display 200 and the molding part 400. Foreign substances may be prevented from flowing into the rear cover 140 by this protective member.

When a button for opening the rear cover 140 is pressed, the rear cover 140 is opened, and an operation for heating the shape memory member 300 in the shape control unit 150 may occur. This operation can be adjusted by the control unit of the flexible display device (A) using the shape memory member. Alternatively, when the rear cover 140 is opened, a display window may be displayed on the display 200 asking a doctor about whether to open the display 200. Upon approval of such a display window, after the rear cover 140 is opened, the shape control unit 150 starts to heat the shape memory member 300. In this case, heating the shape memory member 300 may occur within a certain period of time, for example, within a few seconds in consideration of a time when the rear cover 140 is opened.

FIG. 1B(a) shows a state in which the display 200 covering the rear and side surfaces of the body 100 is unfolded.

As described above, when an operation for unfolding the display 200 is performed, the shape memory member 300 may be heated and unfolded. This process may occur within a few seconds in relation to the speed at which the shape memory member 300 is unfolded. In addition, when the rear cover 140 is completely opened, the rear cover 140 may be moved toward the body 100 again and fixed so as not to be closed.

FIG. 1B(b) shows a state in which the display 200 is fully unfolded, that is, an unfolded state.

The heated shape memory member 300 completely unfolds the display 200, and the display 200 may be held flat by the elastic body 405 of the molding unit 400 to be described below.

As described above, the display 200 includes a first surface 210 and a second surface 220, and the second surface 220 is a side surface of the body 100 when the display 200 is folded. It may include a covering side portion 222 and a rear surface portion 224 disposed close to the rear surface of the body 100.

Meanwhile, in the drawing, a first bending area L1 and a second bending area L2, which are areas that can be bent between the first surface 210 and the rear surface 224, are displayed. However, the first bent region L1 and the second bent region L2 are illustrated for explanation of the bent region, and may not be displayed on the actual display 200.

In addition, the second surface 220 of the display 200 may be bent by pressing a portion of the second surface 220 of the display 200 in the unfolded state of FIG. 1B (b). Through this, it is possible to change the shape of the display device bent in the order of FIGS. 1B (a), 1A (b), and 1A (a).

In the flexible display device A using the shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention, the display 200 outside the body 100 can be easily bent at room temperature. In addition, the folded display 200 may surround the side and rear surfaces of the body 100. In addition, according to the operation of the shape control unit 150, the shape memory member 300 may be restored to its original shape in a straight line shape at a constant temperature. Accordingly, the folded display 200 can be unfolded.

As described above, a rear cover that is rotatably coupled to the rear surface of the body 100 and formed to cover the molding unit 400 in a state in which the molding unit 400 is disposed adjacent to the rear surface of the body 100 ( 140) may be included.

Referring to FIG. 1A, the rear cover 140 is coupled to the body 100 when the display 200 is folded. In addition, the rear cover 140 is separated from the body 100 so that the display 200 is unfolded.

Meanwhile, a button for opening the rear cover 140 may be provided on the upper surface of the body 100. When the button is pressed, the rear cover 140 may be opened from the body 100 by a mechanical, electrical operation or an electrical signal.

When the rear cover 140 covers at least a portion of the display 200 and is coupled to the body 100, the environment setting of the display 200 can be adjusted in at least a portion of the display 200 covering the side of the body 100. A control unit 230 may be displayed. The manipulation unit 230 may control a function of a driven application.

Applications that can be manipulated by the above-described operation unit 230 include music running in the main body, brightness of the screen of the display, loudness of the sound, and various basic applications that are basically installed in the device.

Specifically, referring to (a) of FIG. 1A, when the rear cover 140 is coupled to the body 100, a part of the side surface of the body 100 is exposed to the outside. Accordingly, a part of the display 200 disposed on the side of the body 100 is exposed.

The manipulation unit 230 may be displayed on the display 200 on the side of the exposed body 100, that is, the side display 200. At this time, the type or size of the operation unit 230 may be arranged in various ways, and the user may change this by changing the setting of the flexible display device A using the shape memory member. Through this, the volume, brightness, and size of the window of the screen of the flexible display device A using the shape memory member can be adjusted, and the screen displayed on the display 200 can be moved up and down, or the screen is enlarged or reduced, Side menu operation, etc. can be performed.

Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, an insertion hole 402 into which the shape memory member 300 is inserted may be formed at the top and bottom of the molding part 400. The shape memory member 300 is disposed above and below the body 100, respectively. Based on the unfolded state of the display 200, the shape memory member 300 extends from the body 100 toward the molding part 400.

In this case, insertion holes 402 for inserting the shape memory member 300 extending from the body 100 are formed in the upper and lower portions of the molding part 400. The insertion hole 402 is formed to fit the position where the shape memory member 300 is to be inserted. The shape memory member 300 may be movable inside the insertion hole 402.

In addition, an elastic body 405 for pressing the shape memory member 300 in a direction away from the inner end 402E of the insertion hole 402 may be further included at the inner end 402E of the insertion hole 402. The elastic body 405 has one end in contact with the inner end 402E of the insertion hole 402 and the other end presses the shape memory member 300. The elastic body 405 may be made of a spring or rubber material.

At this time, the elastic body 405 presses the shape memory member 300 away from the inner end 402E of the insertion hole 402. As a reaction caused by such pressure, the molding part 400 is pressed toward the away from the body 100. Through this, the display 200 may be kept flat.

Specifically, one end of the elastic body 405 inside the insertion hole 402 is in contact with the inner end 402E of the insertion hole 402. And, the other end of the elastic body 405 presses the shape memory member 300. When the elastic body 405 presses the shape memory member 300, the molding part 400 receives a force away from the body 100 as a reaction.

The elastic body 405 presses the shape memory member 300 to perform the following actions according to each step of the display 200.

As shown, the elastic body 405 presses the shape memory member 300 so that the shape memory member 300 may partially protrude from the insertion hole 402. Through this, it is possible to secure a length required for the display 200 to be bent. That is, when the display 200 is bent, the elastic body 405 presses the shape memory member 300, so that a gap between the protective tube 500, the body 100, and the molding unit 400 to be described below ( G) can be produced. Through this, the display 200 can be bent more easily by using a gap between the molding part 400 and the protective tube 500 surrounding the display 200.

Referring to FIG. 1B (b), due to the heated shape memory member 300, the display 200 is unfolded. At this time, referring to FIG. 2, the elastic body 405 inside the insertion hole 402 presses the shape memory member 300. Accordingly, the molding part 400 receives a force in a direction away from the body 100, which is a direction opposite to the direction in which the elastic body 405 presses. Accordingly, the display 200 including the first bent region L1 and the second bent region L2, which is difficult to be completely unfolded without the elastic body 405, can be unfolded flat.

On the other hand, the shape memory member 300 is heated to return to its original state, but after it is restored to its original state, it may not be heated any more. This may cause deterioration of the flexible display device (A) using the shape memory member or cause injury to the user, so heating is stopped in the shape memory member 300 restored to its original shape, and the shape memory member 300 The temperature of the can be quickly lowered. Further, even when the temperature of the shape memory member 300 is lowered, the display 200 may not be easily bent under the pressure of touching the display 200.

A protective tube 500 interposed between the molding part 400 and the body 100 may be further included. The protective tube 500 may wrap the shape memory member 300 at the top and bottom of the side portion 222. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2, the protective tube 500 may be wrapped so that the shape memory member 300 is not exposed to the outside at the top and bottom of the side portion 222 of the display 200.

One end of the protective tube 500 may contact the molding part 400. And, it may be introduced into the inside of the body 100 of the other end of the protection tube (500). When the protective tube 500 is bent while surrounding the side surface of the body 100, the portion 510 that is drawn into the body 100 may be drawn into or drawn out of the body 100. That is, the portion 510 of the protective tube 500 that is drawn into the body 100 may move in the longitudinal direction to facilitate bending of the protective tube 500.

The protective tube 500 may be formed of a rubber material or the like to prevent heat and current from flowing. In addition, since it is made of a material having excellent elasticity, it may be in close contact with the side surface of the body 100 when the display 200 is bent.

Meanwhile, the protective tube 500 may have a bendability in one direction so that the second surface 220 of the display 200 does not bend toward the front surface of the body 100 rather than the side and rear surfaces of the body 100.

Specifically, when the display 200 receives a force toward the front, the display 200 may be bent toward the front of the body 100 due to the property of the display 200 being easily bent. In this case, in order to prevent this, the protective tube 500 may be bent only in one direction, that is, in the rear direction of the body 100. Through this, it is possible to prevent the display 200 from bending in an unintended direction.

In addition, the shape memory member 300 may be easily bent toward the rear side of the body 100 and may not be bent well toward the front side of the body 100. Through this, it is possible to prevent the display 200 from bending in an unintended direction in the same manner as the role of the protective tube 500 described above.

The protective tube 500 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the display 200. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2, the protective tube 500 is disposed to be spaced apart from the side portion 222 of the display 200. That is, a gap G is generated between the protective tube 500 and the display 200. This is to reduce stress generated when the second surface 220 of the display 200 is bent.

Specifically, when the thickness of the display 200 becomes thick, stress concentration may occur on the surface of the display 200 during the bending process. However, when the protective tube 500 is attached to the entire side portion 222 of the display 200, the thickness of the display 200 is increased. Accordingly, when the display 200 is bent, stress concentration may occur in the display 200, which is the shortest surface where the display 200 and the protective tube 500 are combined. Accordingly, the display 200 and the protective tube 500 are separated from each other, and the side portion 222 of the display 200 in which a lot of bending occurs is not disposed on the rear surface of the molding unit 400 and/or the protective tube 500. That is, since only the display 200 is provided, stress concentration that may occur in the display 200 can be reduced. Through this, cracks or deterioration that may occur in the side surface 222 of the second surface 220 of the display 200 due to the repeated folding and unfolding operation of the display 200 may be reduced.

Meanwhile, the body 100 may further include a sensing unit 130 disposed on the side of the body 100 and detecting whether the display 200 is disposed adjacent to the side of the body 100.

Specifically, referring to FIG. 3, the sensing unit 130 is disposed on the side of the body 100. The sensing unit 130 may detect whether the display 200 is disposed on the side of the body 100 or whether the protective tube 500 is disposed on the side of the body 100. In this case, a method of sensing by the sensing unit 130 may include a method of sensing using pressure, a method of sensing using infrared rays, or a method of sensing a metal for sensing when the shape memory member is a metal.

In addition, when detecting that the display 200 is disposed adjacent to the side of the body 100, the detection unit 130 may generate a signal so that at least a part of the second surface 220 of the display 200 is turned off. have.

Specifically, when the sensing unit 130 detects that the display 200 is disposed on the side of the body 100, the portion of the display 200 covered by the rear cover 140 and the rear surface of the display 200 The screen of 224 may be controlled to be turned off. Through this, it is possible to prevent an increase in power consumption by generating a screen on the entire display 200.

As described above, in the flexible display device using the shape memory member according to an embodiment of the present invention, as the display and the shape memory member are pressed by an external force, the second surface is bent toward the rear surface of the body, and the shape memory member When the temperature reaches a preset temperature range, the bent display is restored to its original state by the restoring force of the shape memory member to be restored to its original state.

5 is an exemplary view for explaining a state cut along V-V of FIG. 2. In FIG. 5, the display 200 is illustrated for convenience of description, but the display 200 and the shape memory member 300 are not disposed to overlap each other. In addition, unlike shown in the drawings, the display 200 may be disposed at the top.

Referring to FIG. 5, the molding part 400 may include a holding part 410 and an extension part 420. Specifically, the holding unit 410 supports the display 200 disposed on the front side, and the shape memory member 300 may be disposed in the insertion hole 402. The holding part 410 includes an insertion hole 402 therein, and an elastic body 405 and a shape memory member 300 inside the insertion hole 402. Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2, the molding unit 400 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the body 100 in a flat unfolded state of the display 200.

The extension part 420 of the molding part 400 may further extend outward from the end of the insertion hole 402. In addition, the extension part 420 may be made thinner than the holding part 410.

Specifically, referring to FIG. 5, the extension part 420 does not include the insertion hole 402 therein, and the shape memory member 300 is not inserted therein. Accordingly, the extension part 420 may be formed to surround only the display 200. Accordingly, the extension part 420 may be formed to be thinner than the holding part 410.

Through this, when the display 200 is fully unfolded, that is, when the display 200 is in the unfolded state, the thickness of the end side of the display 200 is thin, so that a flexible display device A using a more convenient shape memory member can be provided. In addition, even when the second surface 220 of the display 200 is folded to the rear surface of the body 100, the display 200 may be accommodated in a smaller space.

6 is an exemplary view for explaining a state cut along VI-VI of FIG. 2.

The molding part 400 further includes a support protrusion 430 protruding from the top and the bottom to the front, and the display 200 is between the support protrusion 430 disposed at the top and the support protrusion 430 disposed at the bottom. Can be placed on

Referring to FIG. 6, the support protrusion 430 protrudes from the upper and lower portions of the molding part 400 toward the front surface. The display 200 may be embedded and supported in the upper and lower support protrusions 430. The display 200 disposed inside the support protrusion 430 may not be separated due to the support protrusion 430 and may be protected from external impact or contamination.

The molding part 400 includes a shape memory member 300 at the upper and lower portions. Specifically, the support protrusion 430 protrudes from the upper and lower portions of the molding part 400, and the shape memory member 300 may be fitted into the support protrusion 430. That is, the shape memory member 300 is wrapped by the molding part 400. The shape memory member 300 is wrapped by the support protrusion 430 of the molding part 400. Accordingly, even when the shape memory member 300 receives heat to restore its original shape, the risk of injury to the user is reduced.

In addition, the display 200 may be disposed (adhered) between the upper and lower support protrusions 430. Through this, the display 200 may be prevented from being separated from the molding unit 400. In addition, when the second surface 220 of the support protrusion 430 is folded to the rear surface of the body 100, the second surface 220 on one side of the display 200 and the second surface 220 on the other side of the display 200 overlap each other. Interference between the displays 200 that may occur may be reduced.

As described above, one embodiment of the present invention has been described, but those of ordinary skill in the relevant technical field add, change, delete or add components within the scope not departing from the spirit of the present invention described in the claims. It will be possible to variously modify and change the present invention by means of the like, and it will be said that this is also included within the scope of the present invention.

100: body
130: detection unit
140: back cover
145: support
150: shape control unit
200: display
201: front of the display
202: display back
210: first page
220: second page
222: side part
224: rear part
230: control panel
300: shape memory member
400: molding part
402: insertion hole
402E: inner end
405: elastic body
410: holding part
420: extension
430: support protrusion
500: protection tube
L1: 1st bending area
L2: 2nd bending area
A: Flexible display device using shape memory member

Claims (18)

body;
A display disposed on a front surface of the body, formed longer than a width of the front surface of the body, and configured to be bent; And
And a shape memory member disposed adjacent to the display and supporting at least a portion of the display,
The display can be bent so as to be disposed adjacently along the side and rear surfaces of the body,
The shape memory member,
A flexible display device using a shape memory member, wherein the display is deformed on the rear surface of the display as the display is bent, and is restored when the display reaches a predetermined temperature range to be unfolded.
The method of claim 1,
The display,
A first surface corresponding to the width of the front surface of the body; And
A flexible display device using a shape memory member, comprising a second surface extending to both sides of the first surface and capable of being bent close to a side surface or a rear surface of the body.
The method of claim 2,
The display is made to be bent between the first surface and the second surface,
The second side,
A flexible display device using a shape memory member, comprising: a side portion contacting a side surface of the body when bending, and a rear portion disposed close to a rear surface of the body.
The method of claim 3,
Further comprising a molding portion surrounding the rear surface of the rear portion of the display,
The shape memory member is a flexible display device using a shape memory member disposed at the top and bottom of the molding part
The method of claim 4,
A flexible display device using a shape memory member, wherein an insertion hole into which the shape memory member is inserted is formed at the upper and lower ends of the molding part.
The method of claim 5,
A flexible display device using a shape memory member, further comprising an elastic body pressing the shape memory member in a direction away from the inner end of the insertion hole at an inner end of the insertion hole.
The method of claim 6,
The molding part,
A holding unit supporting the display disposed on the front side and having the shape memory member disposed in the insertion hole; And
Including an extension further extending outward from the end of the insertion hole,
A flexible display device using a shape memory member, wherein the extension part is made thinner than the holding part.
The method of claim 3,
The body,
Further comprising a sensing unit disposed on the side of the body and detecting whether the display is disposed adjacent to the side of the body,
The sensing unit,
When it is sensed that the display is disposed adjacent to the side of the body, the flexible display device using a shape memory member generates a signal to turn off at least a part of the second surface of the display.
The method of claim 4,
It is rotatably coupled to the back of the body,
And a rear cover formed to cover the molding part while the display is bent and the molding part is disposed adjacent to the rear surface of the body.
The method of claim 9,
The rear cover further includes a support disposed inside,
The support is configured to be movable so that one end is supported on the rear surface of the body and the other end is supported on the rear cover, a flexible display device using a shape memory member.
The method of claim 9,
The rear cover is formed to cover at least a portion of the display disposed on the side of the body when combined with the body,
A flexible display device using a shape memory member, wherein an operation unit capable of controlling a function of a driven application is displayed on at least a portion of the display covering the side of the body.
The method of claim 4,
Further comprising a protective tube interposed between the molding portion and the body,
The protective tube wraps the shape memory member at the top and bottom of the side portion, a flexible display device using a shape memory member.
The method of claim 12,
The protective tube is disposed to be spaced apart from the display, a flexible display device using a shape memory member.
The method of claim 13,
One end of the protective tube is in contact with the molding part, and the other end of the protective tube is introduced into the body of the flexible display device using a shape memory member.
The method of claim 1,
The body further comprises a shape controller for applying current to the shape memory member or transferring heat to the shape memory member.
body;
A display including a first surface corresponding to a front surface of the body and a second surface on both sides of the first surface; And
A shape memory member disposed adjacent to the display, having a straight line or both ends curved toward the front of the body in an original state, and bent by an external force,
The display and shape memory member,
As it is pressed by an external force, the second surface is bent toward the rear surface of the body,
When the shape memory member reaches a preset temperature range, the display bent by a restoring force to be restored to an original state of the shape memory member is configured to be restored to the original state.
The method of claim 16,
Further comprising a molding portion surrounding at least a portion of the rear surface of the second surface,
A flexible display device using a shape memory member, wherein the molding part is disposed to be spaced apart from the body in a flat unfolded state of the display.
The method of claim 17,
The molding part,
Further comprising a support protrusion protruding from the top and bottom to the front,
The display is a flexible display device using a shape memory member disposed between the support protrusion disposed at the upper end and the support protrusion disposed at the lower end.

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