KR20230136006A - Electronic device including flexible display - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic device including a flexible display is disclosed. An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a flexible display panel that displays an image in a first direction and is capable of bending and unfolding, and the first display panel of the flexible display panel based on the direction in which the image of the flexible display panel is displayed. It may include a flexible display including a flexible window that is disposed in any direction and includes at least one bent portion and a flat portion that can be bent and unfolded about a bending axis. The flat portion includes flat glass, and the bent portion includes a plurality of cylindrical glasses oriented parallel to the bending axis on a plane on which the flat glass is disposed in the unfolded state of the flexible window, and the plurality of cylinders in the bent portion. It is disposed in a region of the type glass located in the first direction and a region located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, is directly or indirectly combined with the plurality of cylindrical glasses, and is optically transparent and has flexibility. May contain polymers.

Description

Electronic device including a flexible display {ELECTRONIC DEVICE INCLUDING FLEXIBLE DISPLAY}

Various embodiments of the present invention relate to electronic devices, and more particularly, to electronic devices including flexible displays.

Electronic devices are gradually becoming slimmer, and are gradually changing from a uniform rectangular shape to various shapes. Electronic devices can be convenient to carry and have a deformable structure that can utilize a large screen display. For example, an electronic device may have a structure (e.g., a foldable structure) having a flexible display disposed in a plurality of housings joined by a hinge, or may support housings that slide relative to each other to display the flexible display. It may have a structure (e.g., a rollable structure or a slideable structure) that allows the display area (e.g., display area) to vary.

A flexible display may include a flexible display panel (eg, flexible OLED) and a flexible window that is disposed in the screen display direction of the flexible display and protects the flexible display from external impact and inflow of foreign substances. Flexible windows may include transparent materials with transparency and bendability, such as transparent polyimide or ultra-thin glass.

In the case of the flexible window of a flexible display, if it is made of transparent polyimide, damage such as whitening or cracking may occur due to plastic deformation when bending is repeated. Flexible windows made of ultra-thin glass have a thickness of about 30 to about 50 micrometers for easy bending, which weakens the impact strength and increases the risk of rupture in the event of an external impact such as a pen drop. You can. Additionally, as the bending radius of the flexible display increases, the resistance to bending of the flexible display increases and the risk of the screen protection film attached to the top of the flexible window being dislodged due to buckling may increase.

Various embodiments of the present invention can provide a flexible display with improved impact strength and low resistance to bending, and an electronic device including the same.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a flexible display panel that displays an image in a first direction and is capable of bending and unfolding, and the first display panel of the flexible display panel based on the direction in which the image of the flexible display panel is displayed. It may include a flexible display including a flexible window that is disposed in any direction and includes at least one bent portion and a flat portion that can be bent and unfolded about a bending axis. The flat portion includes flat glass, and the bent portion includes a plurality of cylindrical glasses oriented parallel to the bending axis on a plane on which the flat glass is disposed in the unfolded state of the flexible window, and the plurality of cylinders in the bent portion. It is disposed in a region of the type glass located in the first direction and a region located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, is directly or indirectly combined with the plurality of cylindrical glasses, and is optically transparent and has flexibility. May contain polymers.

In various embodiments, the electronic device may be a foldable electronic device including at least one hinge and a plurality of sub-housings rotatably connected by the hinge. The flexible display may be disposed in a plurality of sub-housings connected by the hinge, and the bent portion may be located in an area of the flexible display corresponding to the hinge.

In various embodiments, the electronic device may be a rollable electronic device that includes a first housing and a second housing into which the first housing is inserted and withdrawn. The flexible display has one end disposed on the first housing and the other end disposed on the second housing, and when the first housing is inserted into and withdrawn from the second housing, the other end is inserted into the second housing. and is drawn out, and the bent portion may be located at the other end.

In various embodiments, the optically transparent polymer may have the same refractive index as the cylindrical glass.

In various embodiments, it may include a polymer coating layer that coats the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical glass.

In various embodiments, the polymer coating layer may have a different elastic modulus than the optically clear polymer.

In various embodiments, the electronic device may include a bundling member surrounding the exterior of the plurality of cylindrical glasses.

In various embodiments, the bundling member may have a different elastic modulus than the optically transparent polymer.

In various embodiments, the flexible display includes an upper cylindrical glass including a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed at an upper portion based on the image display direction of the flexible display, and a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed below the upper layer. It may include a lower cylindrical glass containing glass.

In various embodiments, the cylindrical glass may include a first cylindrical glass and a second cylindrical glass having a smaller diameter than the first cylindrical glass.

In various embodiments, the second cylindrical glass may be disposed in a gap between the plurality of first cylindrical glasses.

A flexible display according to various embodiments of the present invention includes a flexible display panel that displays an image in a first direction and is capable of bending and unfolding, and a flexible display panel that displays an image of the flexible display panel in the first direction based on a direction in which the image of the flexible display panel is displayed. It is disposed in and may include a flexible window including at least one bent portion and a flat portion that can be bent and unfolded about the bending axis. The flat portion includes flat glass, and the bent portion includes a plurality of cylindrical glasses oriented parallel to the bending axis on a plane on which the flat glass is disposed in the unfolded state of the flexible window, and the plurality of pieces of glass in the bent portion. Optics disposed in a region of the cylindrical glass located in the first direction and a region located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, directly or indirectly coupled to the plurality of cylindrical glasses, and having flexibility. It may contain a transparent polymer.

In various embodiments, the optically transparent polymer may have the same refractive index as the cylindrical glass.

In various embodiments, it may include a polymer coating layer that coats the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical glass.

In various embodiments, the polymer coating layer may have a different elastic modulus than the optically clear polymer.

In various embodiments, the flexible display may include a bundling member surrounding the exterior of the plurality of cylindrical glasses.

In various embodiments, the bundling member may have a different elastic modulus than the optically transparent polymer.

In various embodiments, the flexible display includes an upper cylindrical glass including a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed at an upper portion based on the image display direction of the flexible display, and a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed below the upper layer. It may include a lower cylindrical glass containing glass.

In various embodiments, the cylindrical glass may include a first cylindrical glass and a second cylindrical glass having a smaller diameter than the first cylindrical glass.

In various embodiments, the second cylindrical glass may be disposed in a gap between the plurality of first cylindrical glasses.

According to various embodiments of the present invention, an electronic device including a flexible display with improved impact strength and rigidity by including a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed in a bent portion and connected by optically clear resin (OCR) is provided. can be provided.

In addition, the surface of the flexible window is deformed while supporting the shape deformation when the protective film is bent due to the viscoelastic behavior of the optically transparent resin, resulting in a flexible display with low resistance to bending and a reduced possibility of the protective film detaching from the surface of the flexible window. can be provided.

In addition, various effects that can be directly or indirectly identified through this document may be provided.

In relation to the description of the drawings, identical or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.
1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating the front and back sides of an electronic device in a slide-in state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating the front and rear sides of an electronic device in a slide-out state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
5A to 5F illustrate a portable electronic device having an in-folding housing structure, according to an embodiment.
6A to 6J are plan and cross-sectional views showing a flexible display of a rollable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to some embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 7b is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to other embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 8a is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to some embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 8b is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to other embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 8c is a cross-sectional view showing a cylindrical glass of a flexible display according to some embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to some embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to other embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view showing a cylindrical glass of a flexible display according to some embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 10a is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to some embodiments of the present invention.
Figures 10b and 10c are cross-sectional views showing flexible displays according to other embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 10d is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to still other embodiments of the present invention.
Figure 10e is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to still other embodiments of the present invention.

Various embodiments are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100, according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment 100, the electronic device 101 communicates with the electronic device 102 through a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or a second network 199. It is possible to communicate with at least one of the electronic device 104 or the server 108 through (e.g., a long-distance wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 through the server 108. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes a processor 120, a memory 130, an input module 150, an audio output module 155, a display module 160, an audio module 170, and a sensor module ( 176), interface 177, connection terminal 178, haptic module 179, camera module 180, power management module 188, battery 189, communication module 190, subscriber identification module 196 , or may include an antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of these components (eg, the connection terminal 178) may be omitted or one or more other components may be added to the electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module 176, camera module 180, or antenna module 197) are integrated into one component (e.g., display module 160). It can be.

The processor 120, for example, executes software (e.g., program 140) to operate at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 connected to the processor 120. It can be controlled and various data processing or calculations can be performed. According to one embodiment, as at least part of data processing or computation, the processor 120 stores instructions or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 176 or communication module 190) in volatile memory 132. The commands or data stored in the volatile memory 132 can be processed, and the resulting data can be stored in the non-volatile memory 134. According to one embodiment, the processor 120 includes the main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor 123 that can operate independently or together (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural network processing unit ( It may include a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device 101 includes a main processor 121 and a secondary processor 123, the secondary processor 123 may be set to use lower power than the main processor 121 or be specialized for a designated function. You can. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented separately from the main processor 121 or as part of it.

The auxiliary processor 123 may, for example, act on behalf of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or while the main processor 121 is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. ), together with the main processor 121, at least one of the components of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the display module 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190) At least some of the functions or states related to can be controlled. According to one embodiment, co-processor 123 (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module 180 or communication module 190). there is. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (eg, neural network processing device) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. Artificial intelligence models can be created through machine learning. For example, such learning may be performed in the electronic device 101 itself on which the artificial intelligence model is performed, or may be performed through a separate server (e.g., server 108). Learning algorithms may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but It is not limited. An artificial intelligence model may include multiple artificial neural network layers. Artificial neural networks include deep neural network (DNN), convolutional neural network (CNN), recurrent neural network (RNN), restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), belief deep network (DBN), bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), It may be one of deep Q-networks or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to hardware structures, artificial intelligence models may additionally or alternatively include software structures.

The memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component (eg, the processor 120 or the sensor module 176) of the electronic device 101. Data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (e.g., program 140) and instructions related thereto. Memory 130 may include volatile memory 132 or non-volatile memory 134.

The program 140 may be stored as software in the memory 130 and may include, for example, an operating system 142, middleware 144, or application 146.

The input module 150 may receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., the processor 120) from outside the electronic device 101 (e.g., a user). The input module 150 may include, for example, a microphone, mouse, keyboard, keys (eg, buttons), or digital pen (eg, stylus pen).

The sound output module 155 may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output module 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. Speakers can be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of it.

The display module 160 can visually provide information to the outside of the electronic device 101 (eg, a user). The display module 160 may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector, and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module 160 may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of force generated by the touch.

The audio module 170 can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module 170 acquires sound through the input module 150, the sound output module 155, or an external electronic device (e.g., directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101). Sound may be output through the electronic device 102 (e.g., speaker or headphone).

The sensor module 176 detects the operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generates an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. can do. According to one embodiment, the sensor module 176 includes, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, It may include a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or light sensor.

The interface 177 may support one or more designated protocols that can be used to connect the electronic device 101 directly or wirelessly with an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102). According to one embodiment, the interface 177 may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

The connection terminal 178 may include a connector through which the electronic device 101 can be physically connected to an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal 178 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (eg, a headphone connector).

The haptic module 179 can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimulation (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimulation that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The camera module 180 can capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module 188 can manage power supplied to the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the power management module 188 may be implemented as at least a part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery 189 may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the battery 189 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

Communication module 190 is configured to provide a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or wireless communication channel between electronic device 101 and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108). It can support establishment and communication through established communication channels. Communication module 190 operates independently of processor 120 (e.g., an application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module 190 may be a wireless communication module 192 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 194 (e.g., : LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module) may be included. Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module is a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network 199 (e.g., legacy It may communicate with an external electronic device 104 through a telecommunication network such as a cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or may be implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module 192 uses subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module 196 within a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199. The electronic device 101 can be confirmed or authenticated.

The wireless communication module 192 may support 5G networks after 4G networks and next-generation communication technologies, for example, NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology provides high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and access to multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low latency). -latency communications)) can be supported. The wireless communication module 192 may support high frequency bands (eg, mmWave bands), for example, to achieve high data rates. The wireless communication module 192 uses various technologies to secure performance in high frequency bands, for example, beamforming, massive array multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), and full-dimensional multiplexing. It can support technologies such as input/output (FD-MIMO: full dimensional MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module 192 may support various requirements specified in the electronic device 101, an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 104), or a network system (e.g., second network 199). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 supports Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mmTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing URLLC. Example: Downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each of 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) can be supported.

The antenna module 197 may transmit or receive signals or power to or from the outside (eg, an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include an antenna including a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (eg, PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include a plurality of antennas (eg, an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network such as the first network 198 or the second network 199 is connected to the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module 190. can be selected Signals or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module 190 and an external electronic device through the at least one selected antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (eg, radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module 197.

According to various embodiments, the antenna module 197 may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, a mmWave antenna module includes: a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first side (e.g., bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band); And a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to the second side (e.g., top or side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high frequency band. can do.

At least some of the components are connected to each other through a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)) and signal ( (e.g. commands or data) can be exchanged with each other.

According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 through the server 108 connected to the second network 199. Each of the external electronic devices 102 or 104 may be of the same or different type as the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed in the electronic device 101 may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices 102, 104, or 108. For example, when the electronic device 101 needs to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 101 may perform the function or service instead of executing the function or service on its own. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more external electronic devices may be requested to perform at least part of the function or service. One or more external electronic devices that have received the request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least part of a response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology can be used. The electronic device 101 may provide an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device 104 may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. Server 108 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or neural networks. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device 104 or server 108 may be included in the second network 199. The electronic device 101 may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

Electronic devices according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various types. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to embodiments of this document are not limited to the above-described devices.

The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various changes, equivalents, or replacements of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numbers may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the above items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “A Each of phrases such as “at least one of , B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or any possible combination thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another, and to refer to that component in other respects (e.g., importance or order) is not limited. One (e.g., first) component is said to be “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., second) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively.” When mentioned, it means that any of the components can be connected to the other components directly (e.g. wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

As used in various embodiments of this document, the term “module” may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be interchangeable with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. can be used A module may be an integrated part or a minimum unit of the parts or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, the module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Various embodiments of the present document are one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., built-in memory 136 or external memory 138) that can be read by a machine (e.g., electronic device 101). It may be implemented as software (e.g., program 140) including these. For example, a processor (e.g., processor 120) of a device (e.g., electronic device 101) may call at least one command among one or more commands stored from a storage medium and execute it. This allows the device to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction called. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. A storage medium that can be read by a device may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g. electromagnetic waves), and this term refers to cases where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium. There is no distinction between temporary storage cases.

According to one embodiment, methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided and included in a computer program product. Computer program products are commodities and can be traded between sellers and buyers. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g. compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)) or via an application store (e.g. Play Store ^TM ) or on two user devices (e.g. It can be distributed (e.g. downloaded or uploaded) directly between smart phones) or online. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the above-described components may include a single or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately placed in other components. . According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations described above may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple components (eg, modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each component of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component of the plurality of components prior to the integration. . According to various embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or , or one or more other operations may be added.

2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating the front and rear sides of an electronic device in a slide-in state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating the front and back sides of an electronic device in a slide-out state according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

The electronic device 200 of FIGS. 2A to 3B may be at least partially similar to the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1 or may further include other embodiments of the electronic device 101 .

2A to 3B, the electronic device 200 includes a first housing 210 (e.g., a first housing structure, a moving part, and/or a slide housing), the first housing 210, and a specified direction (e.g., The second housing 220 (e.g., second housing structure, fixing part, and/or base housing) and the first housing 210 slidably coupled in the ① direction or ② direction (e.g., y-axis direction). 2 It may include a flexible display 230 (eg, expandable display or stretchable display) disposed to be supported by at least a portion of the housing 220. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 slides out the first housing 210 in a first direction (direction ①) based on the second housing 220 held by the user. It may be arranged to slide in in a second direction (② direction), which is opposite to the first direction (① direction). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first housing 210 including the first space 2101 is accommodated in the second space 2201 of the second housing 220, thereby maintaining the slide-in state. It can be changed to . According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 forms, in a slide-out state, at least partially the same plane as at least a portion of the first housing 210 and in a slide-in state. A bendable member or bendable support member (e.g., bendable member 240 of FIG. 4) at least partially received in the second space 2201 of the second housing 220 (e.g., multi-joint hinge) module or multibar assembly). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display 230, in the retracted state, is supported by a bendable member (e.g., the bendable member 240 of FIG. 4) while being held in the internal space of the second housing 220 ( 2201), it can be placed invisible from the outside. According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible display 230 includes a bendable member (e.g., the bendable member 240 of FIG. 4 ) that forms at least partially the same plane as the first housing 210 in the drawn-out state. ), it can be placed so that it is visible from the outside.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a first housing 210 including a first side member 211 and a second housing 220 including a second side member 221. . According to one embodiment, the first side member 211 has a first side 2111 having a first length along a first direction (e.g., y-axis direction), and a direction substantially perpendicular to the first side 2111. a second side 2112 extending to have a second length shorter than the first length along (e.g., the x-axis direction) and extending substantially parallel to the first side 2111 from the second side 2112 and It may include a third side 2113 having a length. According to one embodiment, the first side member 211 may be at least partially formed of a conductive material (eg, metal). In some embodiments, the first side member 211 may be formed by combining a conductive material and a non-conductive material (eg, polymer). According to one embodiment, the first housing 210 may include a first support member 212 extending from at least a portion of the first side member 211 to at least a portion of the first space 2101. According to one embodiment, the first support member 212 may be formed integrally with the first side member 211. In some embodiments, the first support member 212 may be configured separately from the first side member 211 and may be structurally coupled to the first side member 211 .

According to various embodiments, the second side member 221 at least partially corresponds to the first side 2111, has a fourth side 2211 having a third length, and a second side from the fourth side 2211 ( 2112), a fifth side 2212 having a fourth length shorter than the third length, and a third side extending from the fifth side 2212 to correspond to the third side 2113. It may include a sixth side 2213 having a length. According to one embodiment, the second side member 221 may be at least partially formed of a conductive material (eg, metal). In some embodiments, the second side member 221 may be formed by combining a conductive material and a non-conductive material (eg, polymer). According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the second side member 221 may include a second support member 222 extending to at least a portion of the second space 2201 of the second housing 220. According to one embodiment, the second support member 222 may be formed integrally with the second side member 221. In some embodiments, the second support member 222 may be configured separately from the second side member 221 and may be structurally coupled to the second side member 221.

According to various embodiments, the first side 2111 and the fourth side 2211 may be slidably coupled to each other. According to one embodiment, the third side 2113 and the sixth side 2213 may be slidably coupled to each other. According to one embodiment, in the retracted state, the first side 2111 overlaps the fourth side 2211, so that it can be arranged to be substantially invisible from the outside. According to one embodiment, in the retracted state, the third side 2113 overlaps the sixth side 2213, so that it can be arranged to be substantially invisible from the outside. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first side 2111 and the third side 2113 may be arranged to be at least partially visible from the outside in the retracted state. According to one embodiment, in the retracted state, the first support member 212 overlaps the second support member 222, so that it can be arranged to be substantially invisible from the outside. In some embodiments, a portion of the first support member 212 is disposed to be invisible from the outside by overlapping the second support member 222 in the retracted state, and the remaining portion of the first support member 212 is It can also be placed so that it can be seen from the outside.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a first rear cover 213 coupled to the first housing 210 at the rear. According to one embodiment, the first rear cover 213 may be disposed through at least a portion of the first support member 212. In some embodiments, the first rear cover 213 may be formed integrally with the first side member 211. According to one embodiment, the first rear cover 213 is made of polymer, coated or colored glass, ceramic, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of these materials. It can be formed by In some embodiments, the first rear cover 213 may extend to at least a portion of the first side member 211. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first support member 212 may be replaced with the first rear cover 213.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a second rear cover 223 coupled to the second housing 220 at the rear. According to one embodiment, the second rear cover 223 may be disposed through at least a portion of the second support member 222. In some embodiments, the second rear cover 223 may be formed integrally with the second side member 221. According to one embodiment, the second rear cover 223 is made of polymer, coated or colored glass, ceramic, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination of at least two of these materials. It can be formed by In some embodiments, the second rear cover 223 may extend to at least a portion of the second side member 221. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the second support member 222 may be replaced with the second rear cover 223.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a flexible display 230 arranged to be supported by at least a portion of the first housing 210 and the second housing 220. According to one embodiment, the flexible display 230 extends from the first part 230a and a first part 230a (e.g., a flat part) that is always visible from the outside, so that at least a portion of the flexible display 230 is not visible from the outside in the retracted state. It may include a second part 230b (eg, a bendable part) that is at least partially accommodated in the second space 2201 of the second housing 220. According to one embodiment, the first portion 230a is disposed to be supported by the first housing 210, and the second portion 230b is at least partially formed by a bendable member (e.g., the bendable member 240 of FIG. 4). )) can be placed to receive support. According to one embodiment, the second part 230b of the flexible display 230 has a bendable member (e.g., in FIG. 4) in a state in which the first housing 210 is pulled out along the first direction (direction ①). It extends from the first part 230a while being supported by the bendable member 240, forms substantially the same plane as the first part 230a, and can be arranged to be visible from the outside. According to one embodiment, the second portion 230b of the flexible display 230 is formed by the second portion of the second housing 220 in a state in which the first housing 210 is retracted along the second direction (② direction). It can be accommodated in the space 2201 and placed so as not to be visible from the outside. Accordingly, the electronic device 200 allows the display area of the flexible display 230 to vary as the first housing 210 is moved in a sliding manner along a designated direction (e.g., y-axis direction) from the second housing 220. It can be induced.

According to various embodiments, the length of the flexible display 230 in the first direction (direction ①) may be varied according to the sliding movement of the first housing 210 moving relative to the second housing 220. . For example, the flexible display 230 may have a first display area (eg, an area corresponding to the first portion 230a) corresponding to the first length L1 in the retracted state. According to one embodiment, the flexible display 230, in the drawn-out state, moves the first housing 210 by an additional second length L2 with respect to the second housing 220, causing the first housing 210 to slide. To have a third display area (e.g., an area including the first portion 230a and the second portion 230b) that corresponds to the third length L3, which is longer than the length L1, and is larger than the first display area. It can be expanded.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 includes an input module (e.g., microphone 203-1) and a sound output module (e.g., for phone calls) disposed in the first space 2101 of the first housing 210. Receiver 206 or speaker 207), sensor modules 204, 217, camera module (e.g., first camera module 205 or second camera module 216), connector port 208, key input device It may include at least one of (219) or an indicator (not shown). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include another input device (eg, microphone 203) disposed in the second housing. In another embodiment, the electronic device 200 may be configured so that at least one of the above-described components is omitted or other components are additionally included. In another embodiment, at least one of the above-described components may be disposed in the second space 2201 of the second housing 220.

According to various embodiments, the input device may include a microphone 203-1. In some embodiments, the input device (eg, microphone 203-1) may include a plurality of microphones arranged to detect the direction of sound. The sound output device may include, for example, a receiver 206 and a speaker 207 for a call. According to one embodiment, the speaker 207 is at least one speaker formed in the first housing 210 at a position always exposed to the outside (e.g., the second side 2112), regardless of the insertion/extraction state. It can be connected to the outside through the hall. According to one embodiment, the connector port 208, when pulled out, may correspond to the outside through a connector port hole formed in the first housing 210. In some embodiments, the connector port 208 may be formed in the second housing in the retracted state and may correspond to the outside through an opening formed to correspond to the connector port hole. In some embodiments, the call receiver 206 may include a speaker (eg, piezo speaker) that operates without a separate speaker hole.

According to various embodiments, the sensor modules 204 and 217 may generate electrical signals or data values corresponding to the internal operating state of the electronic device 200 or the external environmental state. The sensor modules 204 and 217 are, for example, the first sensor module 204 (e.g., proximity sensor or illuminance sensor) disposed on the front of the electronic device 200 and/or on the rear of the electronic device 200. It may include a second sensor module 217 (eg, heart rate monitoring (HRM) sensor) disposed. According to one embodiment, the first sensor module 204 may be disposed on the front of the electronic device 200, below the flexible display 230. According to one embodiment, the first sensor module 204 and/or the second sensor module 217 include a proximity sensor, an illumination sensor, a time of flight (TOF) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a fingerprint recognition sensor, a gesture sensor, and a gyro sensor. , it may include at least one of an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, or a humidity sensor.

According to various embodiments, the camera module may include a first camera module 205 disposed on the front of the electronic device 200 and a second camera module 216 disposed on the rear of the electronic device 200. . According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include a flash (not shown) located near the second camera module 216. According to one embodiment, the camera modules 205 and 216 may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, and/or an image signal processor. According to one embodiment, the first camera module 205 is disposed below the flexible display 230 and may be configured to photograph a subject through a portion of the active area (e.g., display area) of the flexible display 230. .

According to various embodiments, the first camera module 205 among the camera modules and some sensor modules 204 among the sensor modules 204 and 217 may be arranged to detect the external environment through the flexible display 230. . For example, the first camera module 205 or some sensor modules 204 are connected to the external environment through a transparent area or a perforated opening formed in the flexible display 230 in the first space 2201 of the first housing 210. It can be placed so that it is accessible. According to one embodiment, the area facing the first camera module 205 of the flexible display 230 is part of the display area that displays content, and may be formed as a transparent area with a specified transmittance. According to one embodiment, the transparent area may be formed to have a transmittance ranging from about 5% to about 20%. This transmission area may include an area overlapping with the effective area (eg, field of view area) of the first camera module 205 through which light for forming an image by imaging the image sensor passes. For example, the transparent area of the flexible display 230 may include an area where the pixel arrangement density and/or wiring density is lower than the surrounding area. For example, a transparent area can replace the opening described above. For example, some camera modules 205 may include an under display camera (UDC). In some embodiments, some sensor modules 204 may be arranged to perform their functions without being visually exposed through the flexible display 230 in the internal space of the electronic device 200.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 includes at least one antenna (e.g., FIG. 10) electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit (e.g., wireless communication module 192 of FIG. 1) disposed in the second housing 220. It may include an antenna 214b). According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include a bezel antenna A disposed through the conductive second side member 221 of the second housing 220. For example, the bezel antenna A is disposed on at least a portion of the fifth side 2212 and the sixth side 2213 of the second side member 221, and includes at least one segment formed of a non-conductive material (e.g., polymer). It may include a conductive portion 227 that is electrically divided through the portions 2271 and 2272. According to one embodiment, a wireless communication circuit (e.g., wireless communication module 192 of FIG. 1) has at least one frequency band (e.g., about 800 MHz to 6000 MHz) (e.g., legacy band) designated through the conductive portion 227. It can be set to transmit or receive a wireless signal. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include a side cover 2212a disposed on the fifth side 2212 to cover at least a portion of the at least one segment 2271. In some embodiments, the bezel antenna A may be disposed on at least one of the second side 2112, the fourth side 2211, the fifth side 2212, and the sixth side 2213. In some embodiments, the electronic device 200 is disposed in an internal space (e.g., the first space 2101 or the second space 2201) and is connected to another wireless communication circuit (e.g., the wireless communication module 192 of FIG. 1 ). )), it may further include at least one antenna module (e.g., 5G antenna module or antenna structure) arranged to transmit or receive a wireless signal in a frequency band ranging from about 3 GHz to 100 GHz.

According to various embodiments, the insertion/extraction operation of the electronic device 200 may be performed under set conditions (e.g., a set movement direction and/or a set movement distance) by driving a drive module (e.g., a drive motor). . For example, the insertion/extraction operation of the electronic device 200 may be performed using a drive motor including a pinion gear 261 disposed in the first space 2101 of the first housing 210 (e.g., the drive motor 260 in FIG. 4 )) and the gearing operation of the rack gear (e.g., the rack gear 2251 in FIG. 4) disposed in the second space 2201 of the second housing 220 and meshed with the pinion gear 261. You can. For example, when the processor of the electronic device 200 (e.g., processor 120 in FIG. 1) detects a triggering operation to change from the drawn-in state to the drawn-out state or to change from the drawn-out state to the drawn-in state, the electronic device 200 ) can be operated (e.g., the drive motor 260 in FIG. 4) disposed inside. According to one embodiment, the triggering operation selects (e.g., touches) an object displayed on the flexible display 230, executes a designated function or application, or uses a physical button (e.g., a key) included in the electronic device 200. It may include the operation of a button).

4 is an exploded perspective view of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

In describing the electronic device 200 of FIG. 4 , components that are substantially the same as those of the electronic device 200 of FIGS. 2A to 3B are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof may be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device 200 includes a first housing 210 including a first space 2101, slidably coupled to the first housing 210, and a second space (e.g., the first housing 210 of FIG. 3A). A second housing 220 including two spaces 2201, a bendable member 240 at least partially rotatably disposed in the second space 2201, at least a portion of the bendable member 240 and the first The direction in which the flexible display 230 and the first housing 210, which are arranged to be supported by the housing 210, are to be introduced into the second housing 220 (e.g., -y axis direction) and/or the first housing 210 It may include a driving module that drives the module in the direction in which it is to be pulled out from the second housing 220 (for example, the y-axis direction). According to one embodiment, the drive module is disposed in the first space 2101, and the drive motor 260 including the pinion gear 261 is disposed to mesh with the pinion gear 261 in the second space 2201. It may include a rack gear 2251. According to one embodiment, the driving module may further include a deceleration module arranged to reduce the rotational speed and increase the driving force by being combined with the driving motor 260. According to one embodiment, the drive motor 260 may be arranged to be supported through at least a portion of the first support member 212 in the first space 2101 of the first housing 210. According to one embodiment, the drive motor 260 is fixed to an end (eg, edge) of the first support member 212 in the lead-in direction (eg, -y axis direction) in the first space 2101. You can.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a plurality of electronic components arranged in the first space 2101. According to one embodiment, a plurality of electronic components include a first board 251 (e.g., main board), a camera module 216 disposed around the first board 251, and a socket module 218 (e.g., SIM tray), speaker 207, connector port 208, and battery (B). According to one embodiment, a plurality of electronic components are disposed around the first substrate 251 in the first space 2101 of the first housing 210 along with the drive motor 260, so efficient electrical connection may be possible. there is.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 is disposed between the first support member 212 and the first rear cover 213 of the first housing 210 to cover at least some of the plurality of electronic components. May include a rear bracket (214). According to one embodiment, the rear bracket 214 may be structurally coupled to at least a portion of the first support member 212. In some embodiments, rear bracket 214 may be omitted. According to one embodiment, the rear bracket 214 may be arranged to cover a plurality of electronic components and support the first rear cover 213. According to one embodiment, the rear bracket 214 has a notch area 214a or an opening 214a formed in an area corresponding to the camera module 216 and/or the sensor module (e.g., the sensor module 217 in FIG. 3B). (e.g. through hole) may be included. According to one embodiment, the camera module 216 and/or sensor module 217 may be arranged to detect the external environment through the notch area 214a or the opening 214a. According to one embodiment, at least an area of the first rear cover 213 corresponding to the camera module 216 and/or the sensor module 217 may be processed to be transparent. In some embodiments, the camera module 216 and/or sensor module 217 may be configured to operate only when the electronic device 200 is in a withdrawn state.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 is disposed in the second space 2201 of the second housing 220 and includes a plate-type support bracket slidably coupled to at least a portion of the first support member 212. (225) (e.g. DSB, display support bar) may be included. According to one embodiment, the support bracket 225 may include an opening 225a of a specified size. According to one embodiment, the support bracket 225 may include a support portion 2252 disposed at one end and having a curved outer surface to support the rear surface of the bendable member 240 that is bent during the sliding operation. According to one embodiment, the support bracket 225 extends from at least a portion of the support portion 2252 to at least a portion of the opening 225a, such that in the pulled out state, the support plate formed to support the rear surface of the bendable member 240 ( 2253). According to one embodiment, the support bracket 225 may include a rack gear 2251 fixed to cross the opening 225a and have a length along a direction parallel to the sliding direction. In some embodiments, rack gear 2251 may be formed integrally with support bracket 225. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 is disposed on both sides of the support bracket 225 and may include a pair of guide rails 226 for guiding both ends of the bendable member 240 in the sliding direction. there is.

According to various embodiments, the second housing 220 is in the second support member 222, and when the electronic device 200 is in the retracted state, the camera module 216 and/or the camera module 216 disposed in the first housing 210 It may include an opening 222a (eg, a through hole) disposed in an area corresponding to the sensor module 217. According to one embodiment, the camera module 216 and/or the sensor module 217 detects the external environment through the opening 222a formed in the second housing 220 when the electronic device 200 is in the retracted state. can do. In this case, at least an area of the second rear cover 223 corresponding to the camera module 216 and/or the sensor module 217 may be processed to be transparent.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 includes a second substrate 252 and an antenna member ( 253) may be included. According to one embodiment, the second substrate 252 and the antenna member 253 are connected to the first substrate 251 through at least one electrical connection member (e.g., FPCB, flexible printed circuit board, or FRC, flexible RF cable). Can be electrically connected. In some embodiments, the antenna member 253 may be electrically connected to the second substrate 252 and thus may be electrically connected to the first substrate 251 through the second substrate 252.

5A to 5F illustrate a portable electronic device 300 having an in-folding housing structure, according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIGS. 5A and 5B show the front of a foldable portable electronic device (hereinafter simply referred to as an electronic device) according to various embodiments in an unfolded, flat or open state, and FIG. 5C shows the front of a foldable portable electronic device (hereinafter simply referred to as an electronic device) in a folded state. or closed), Figure 5D shows the rear in the unfolded state, and Figure 5E shows the rear in a partially folded state (in other words, a partially unfolded state, or a fully folded state and a fully folded state). The front view is shown in an intermediate state (freestop state) between the unfolded state, and Figure 5f is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device.

Referring to FIGS. 5A to 5F, the portable electronic device 300 (e.g., the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1) has a first housing 310, a second housing 320, and a first housing 310. 2. A hinge assembly 340 connecting the first housing 310 and the second housing 320 so that the housing 320 is rotatable, and a flexible disposed in the space formed by the foldable housings 310 and 320. It may include a flexible or foldable display 399, and a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module 176 in FIG. 1).

Display 399 may be disposed from first housing 310 across hinge assembly 340 to second housing 320 . The display 399 includes a first display area 311 arranged in the inner space of the first housing 310 with respect to the folding axis A, and a second display area 321 arranged in the inner space of the second housing 320. It can be divided into: A sensor module (eg, illuminance sensor) may be disposed below the sensor area (or light transmission area) 342a of the first display area 311 when viewed from the front. The location and/or size of the sensor area 342a in the first display area 311 may be determined by the location and/or size of the illuminance sensor disposed below it. For example, the size (eg, diameter) of the sensor area 342a may be determined based on the field of view (FOV) of the illuminance sensor. In one embodiment, the sensor area 342a may be configured to have a lower pixel density and/or a lower wiring density than its surroundings in order to improve light transmittance. In some embodiments, the display 399 may include a protective layer 398 that includes a transparent material and protects the panel layer from external foreign substances and impacts.

The hinge assembly 340 allows the two display areas 311 and 321 to be connected to each other when the portable electronic device 300 switches from an unfolded state (e.g., the state in FIG. 5A) to a folded state (e.g., the state in FIG. 5C). It can be implemented in an in-folding manner so that they face each other. For example, when the electronic device 300 is in an unfolded state, the two display areas 311 and 321 may face substantially the same direction. As the state is changed from the unfolded state to the folded state, the two display areas 311 and 321 may be rotated to face each other. The hinge assembly 340 may be configured to resist rotation of the foldable housings 310 and 320. When an external force exceeding the resistance is applied to the foldable housings 310 and 320, the foldable housings 310 and 320 may rotate.

The state of the electronic device 300 may be defined based on the angle between the two display areas 311 and 321. For example, the state of the electronic device 300 may be defined as an unfolded, flat or open state when the angle between the two display areas 311 and 321 is about 180 degrees. When the angle between the two display areas 311 and 321 is between about 0 degrees and 10 degrees, the state of the portable electronic device 300 may be defined as a folded or closed state. When the two display areas 311 and 321 form an angle that is larger than the angle in the folded state and smaller than the angle in the unfolded state (e.g., between about 10 degrees and 179 degrees), the portable electronic device 300 The state may be defined as an intermediate state (in other words, a partially folded or partially unfolded state) as shown in FIG. 5E.

Based on the state of the portable electronic device 300, an active area on the display 399 in which visual information (eg, text, image, or icon) will be displayed may be determined. For example, when the electronic device 300 is in an intermediate state, the active area may be determined as the first display area 311 or the second display area 321. Among the first display area 311 and the second display area 321, an area with relatively less movement may be determined as the active area. For example, when a user holds the housing of the electronic device 300 with one hand and opens another housing with a finger (e.g., thumb) of the same hand or the other hand, the electronic device 300 is in an intermediate state in the folded state. The state is changed to , and accordingly, the electronic device 300 may determine the display area of the held housing (i.e., a housing with relatively little movement) as the active area. When the portable electronic device 300 is in an unfolded state, the entire area of the display 399 (eg, both the first display area 311 and the second display area 321) may be determined as the active area.

According to various embodiments, the first housing 310, in an unfolded state, has a first surface (first display area) 311 and a first surface facing in a first direction (e.g., front direction) (z-axis direction). It may include a second surface 312 facing a second direction (e.g., back direction) (-z axis direction) opposite to 311. In the unfolded state, the second housing 320 has a third surface (second display area) 321 facing the first direction (eg, z-axis direction) and a third surface (second display area) 321 facing the second direction (eg, -z-axis direction). It may include four sides (322). When the electronic device 300 is unfolded, the first surface 311 of the first housing 310 and the third surface 321 of the second housing 320 are aligned in the same first direction (e.g., z-axis direction). It can be operated in such a way that the first side 311 and the third side 321 face each other in the folded state. When the electronic device 300 is unfolded, the second surface 312 of the first housing 310 and the fourth surface 322 of the second housing 320 move in the same second direction (-z axis direction). In the facing and folded state, the second surface 312 and the fourth surface 322 may be operated to face opposite directions.

According to various embodiments, the first housing 310 is coupled to the first side frame 313 and the first side frame 313, which at least partially forms the exterior of the electronic device 300, It may include a first rear cover 314 that forms at least a portion of the second surface 312 of . According to one embodiment, the first side frame 313 includes a first side 313a, a second side 313b extending from one end of the first side 313a, and a second side extending from the other end of the first side 313a. It may include a third side 313c. According to one embodiment, the first side frame 313 may be formed into a rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape through the first side 313a, the second side 313b, and the third side 313c. .

A portion of the first side frame 313 may be formed of a conductor. For example, referring to FIG. 5B, a portion of the first side 313a (ⓕ) a portion of the second side 313b (ⓓ) and a portion (ⓔ) of the third side 313c may be formed of a metal material. The conductor It may be electrically connected to a grip sensor (not shown) disposed adjacent to the inner space of the first housing 310. The processor measures the capacitance formed between the conductor and the ground (e.g., the ground of the main printed circuit board) through the grip sensor. Measure and, based on the measured capacitance value, where the dielectric (e.g., finger, palm, face) is close to (or in contact with) the first housing 310 and where the dielectric is in contact with the first housing 310. (For example, the first side 313a, the second side 313b, and the third side 313c) can be recognized.

According to various embodiments, the second housing 320 is coupled to the second side frame 323 and the second side frame 323, which at least partially forms the exterior of the electronic device 300, It may include a second rear cover 324 forming at least a portion of the fourth surface 322 of . According to one embodiment, the second side frame 323 includes a fourth side 323a, a fifth side 323b extending from one end of the fourth side 323a, and a second end extending from the other end of the fourth side 323b. It may include a sixth side 323c. According to one embodiment, the second side frame 323 may be formed into a rectangular shape through the fourth side 323a, the fifth side 323b, and the sixth side 323c.

A portion of the second side frame 323 may be formed of a conductor. For example, referring to FIG. 5b, a portion of the fourth side 323a (ⓑ) a portion of the fifth side 323b (ⓐ) and a portion of the sixth side (323c) (ⓒ) may be formed of a metal material. The conductor It may be electrically connected to a grip sensor (not shown) disposed adjacent to the inner space of the second housing 320. The processor detects the capacitance formed between the conductor and the ground (e.g., the ground of the main printed circuit board) through the grip sensor. Measure, and based on the measured capacitance value, where the dielectric is close to (or in contact with) the second housing 320 and where it is in contact with the dielectric in the second housing 320 (e.g., the fourth side 323a) , the fifth side 323b, and the sixth side 323c) can be recognized.

According to various embodiments, the pair of housings 310 and 320 is not limited to the shape and combination shown, and may be implemented by combining and/or combining other shapes or parts. For example, the first side frame 313 may be formed integrally with the first rear cover 314, and the second side frame 323 may be formed integrally with the second rear cover 324.

According to various embodiments, the first rear cover 314 and the second rear cover 324 are, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or Magnesium) may be formed by at least one or a combination of at least two.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 300 may include a first protective cover 315 (eg, a first protective frame or a first decorative member) coupled along an edge of the first housing 310. The electronic device 300 may include a second protective cover 325 (eg, a second protective frame or a second decorative member) coupled along an edge of the second housing 320. According to one embodiment, the first protective cover 315 and the second protective cover 325 may be formed of metal or polymer material.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 300 may include a sub-display 331 disposed separately from the display 399. According to one embodiment, the sub-display 331 is disposed to be at least partially exposed to the second surface 312 of the first housing 310, so that when in the folded state, it displays status information of the electronic device 300. You can. According to one embodiment, the sub-display 331 may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a partial area of the first rear cover 314. In some embodiments, the sub-display 331 may be disposed on the fourth side 324 of the second housing 320. In this case, the sub-display 331 may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a partial area of the second rear cover 324.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 300 includes an input device 303, an audio output device 301 and 302, a camera module 305 and 308, a key input device 306, a connector port 307, and a sensor module. It may include at least one of (not shown). In one embodiment, a sensor module (e.g., sensor module 176 in FIG. 1) and camera 305 may be placed below display 399 when facing the front.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 300 may be operated to maintain an intermediate state through the hinge assembly 340. In this case, the electronic device 300 may control the display 399 so that different content is displayed in the display area corresponding to the first side 311 and the display area corresponding to the third side 321.

Referring to FIG. 5F, the electronic device 300 according to various embodiments rotates the first side frame 313, the second side frame 323, and the first side frame 313 and the second side frame 323. It may include a hinge assembly 340 that enables connection. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 includes a first support plate 3131 at least partially extending from the first side frame 313, and a second support plate at least partially extending from the second side frame 323. (3231) may be included. According to one embodiment, the first support plate 3131 may be formed integrally with the first side frame 313 or may be structurally coupled to the first side frame 313. Likewise, the second support plate 3231 may be formed integrally with the second side frame 323 or may be structurally coupled to the second side frame 323. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 may include a display 399 disposed to be supported by the first support plate 3131 and the second support plate 3231. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 is coupled to the first side frame 313 and includes a first rear cover 314 and a second side surface that provide a first space between the first support plate 3131 and the first side frame 313. It may include a second rear cover 324 that is coupled to the frame 323 and provides a second space between it and the second support plate 3231. In some embodiments, the first side frame 313 and the first rear cover 314 may be formed as one piece. In some embodiments, the second side frame 323 and the second rear cover 324 may be formed as one piece. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 may include a first housing 310 provided through a first side frame 313, a first support plate 3131, and a first rear cover 314. . According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 may include a second housing 320 provided through a second side frame 323, a second support plate 331, and a second rear cover 324. .

Although not shown, the hinge assembly 340 includes a first arm structure coupled to the first housing 310 (e.g., the first support plate 3231) and a second housing 320 (e.g., the second support plate 3231). A second arm structure coupled to the support plate 3232), and physically contacting the first arm structure and the second arm structure so that the first housing 310 and the second housing 320 have resistance to rotation. May include a detent structure. The foldable housings 310 and 320 may have resistance to rotation due to the contact force of the detent structure (e.g., force pushing the first arm structure and the second arm structure).

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 300 includes a first board assembly 361 (e.g., main printed circuit board) disposed in the first space between the first side frame 313 and the first rear cover 314. , may include a camera assembly 363, a first battery 371, or a first bracket 351. According to one embodiment, the camera assembly 363 may include a plurality of cameras (e.g., the camera modules 305 and 308 of FIGS. 5A and 5C) and may be electrically connected to the first substrate assembly 361. You can. According to one embodiment, the first bracket 351 may provide a support structure and improved rigidity for supporting the first substrate assembly 361 and/or the camera assembly 363. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 includes a second board assembly 362 (e.g., sub-printed circuit board) disposed in the second space between the second side frame 323 and the second rear cover 324. , it may include an antenna 390 (e.g., coil member), a second battery 372, or a second bracket 352. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 includes a plurality of devices disposed between the second side frame 323 and the second rear cover 324 across the hinge assembly 340 from the first substrate assembly 361. A wiring member 380 (e.g., flexible circuit (FPCB)) disposed to extend to electronic components (e.g., second board assembly 362, second battery 372, or antenna 390) and providing electrical connection. (flexible printed circuit board)) may be included.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 300 supports the hinge assembly 340, is exposed to the outside when the electronic device 300 is in a folded state, and moves to the first space and the second space when the electronic device 300 is in an unfolded state. It may include a hinge cover 341 that is inserted so that it is not visible from the outside.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 300 may include a first protective cover 315 coupled along an edge of the first side frame 313. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 300 may include a second protective cover 325 coupled along an edge of the second side frame 323. In the display 399, the edge of the first display area 311 may be protected by the first protective cover 315. The edge of the second display area 321 may be protected by the second protective cover 325. The protective cap 335 is disposed in an area corresponding to the hinge assembly 340 to protect a bent portion at the edge of the display 399.

6A and 6C are plan views showing the flexible display 400a of a rollable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 6B and 6D are plan views showing a flexible display 400b of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 6E and 6F are cross-sectional views showing an unfolded state of the flexible display 400a of a rollable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 6G and 6H are cross-sectional views showing an unfolded state of the flexible display 400b of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 6i is a cross-sectional view showing a bent state of the flexible display 400a of a rollable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6J is a cross-sectional view showing a bent state of the flexible display 400b of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

The cross-sectional view of FIG. 6E is a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A' direction of FIG. 6A, and the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6F is a cross-sectional view taken along the B-B' direction of FIG. 6B. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 6g is a cross-sectional view taken along the C-C' direction of FIG. 6c, and the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6h is a cross-sectional view taken along the D-D' direction of FIG. 6d.

Referring to FIGS. 6A to 6D , a flexible display 400a (e.g., the electronic device 101 or the electronic device 200 of FIGS. 2A to 4) of a rollable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention is shown. The flexible display 230 of FIGS. 2A to 4) and the flexible display 400b (e.g., the flexible display 399 of FIGS. 5A to 5F) of a foldable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 300 of FIGS. 5A to 5F) May have a bent part 401 (flexible part) and a flat part 402. The bending portion 401 is centered on a bending axis (e.g., the bending axis 403 in FIG. 6E) so that the flexible displays 400a and 400b can be switched between a bent state and an unflexed state. This may be an area of the flexible displays 400a and 400b that can be bent. The flat portion 402 maintains a flat state during the retracting and withdrawing operations of the rollable electronic device or the folding and unfolding operations of the foldable electronic device, and is an area that cannot be substantially bent in the flexible displays 400a and 400b. It can be.

Referring to FIGS. 6E to 6H , flexible displays 400a and 400b according to various embodiments of the present invention may include a flexible window 420 and a flexible display panel 410. The flexible display panel 410 displays an image in one direction (e.g., z-direction in FIG. 6C), is formed on a flexible substrate, such as an ultra-thin glass substrate or a polymer substrate, and displays an image in a bent state and an unfolded state. It may be a display panel capable of displaying. The flexible display panel 410 may include, for example, a flexible OLED panel.

The flexible window 420 is located on the upper part of the flexible display panel 410 based on the image display direction (e.g., z-direction) of the flexible display panel 410, and is bent together according to the bending of the flexible displays 400a and 400b, and is flexible. The displays 400a and 400b can be protected from external impact and foreign matter inflow. The flexible window 420 has a bent portion 420a located in an area corresponding to the bent portion 401 of the flexible displays 400a and 400b and an area corresponding to the flat portion 402 of the flexible displays 400a and 400b. It may include a flat portion 420b located thereon.

The bent portion 420a of the flexible window 420 may include a plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 and an optically clear polymer 422 material. The cylindrical glass 421 may be a pillar-shaped member that is oriented in a direction parallel to the bending axis 403 of the flexible displays 400a and 400b (for example, the x-axis direction) and has a rounded cross-section. 6C and 6D, the cross-section of the cylindrical glass 421 is shown as a circle, but this is an example. In this specification, the term cylindrical refers to a shape without vertices, such as a circle or ellipse. It is used as a term to refer to a columnar body having a cross-section, and in various embodiments of the present invention, the shape of the cylindrical glass 421 is not limited to the shape of a right circular cylinder. The plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the bending axis 403 in the bent portion 420a of the flexible window 420, for example, in the y direction. The cylindrical glass 421 may include various chemically or thermally strengthened glass materials. In some embodiments, the cylindrical glass 421 may have a thickness of 30 to 450 micrometers to have high impact resistance. If the thickness of the cylindrical glass 421 is less than 30 micrometers, the impact resistance and rigidity of the bent portion 420a may be too low and may be easily damaged, and if it exceeds 450 micrometers, the bent portion 420a may be bent. It may be difficult to properly deform the optically clear polymer 422.

The cylindrical glass 421 may be a member that supports the bent portion 420a of the flexible displays 400a and 400b against external stress such as impact and/or pressure from the top (z direction) and prevents damage. Because the bent portion 420a includes the cylindrical glass 421, the flexible window 420 according to various embodiments of the present invention has a thickness of about 100 micrometers or less to have flexibility, like the window according to the comparative example. Compared to ultra-thin glass, which requires a high thickness, it can have high impact resistance and good flexibility. In addition, since it includes a plurality of cylindrical glasses 421, cracks occurring in any one of the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 are limited to the corresponding cylindrical glass 421, and thus the bent portion 420a of the flexible window 420 ) can be prevented from spreading to the entire bent portion 420a or the flexible window 420. Therefore, even if external stress exceeding the impact resistance limit of the window is applied to the flexible displays 400a and 400b, the possibility of damage to a large area such that the flexible displays 400a and 400b are completely unusable may be reduced.

The optically transparent polymer 422 may be a material that is bonded to the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 and bonds the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 to each other. The optically transparent polymer 422 is a polymer filled in the bent portion 420a, and in some embodiments, may be a material that is applied in a resin state and cured (eg, UV, chemical, or heat cured). The optically transparent polymer is bonded directly to the surface of the cylindrical glass 421, or is attached to the cylindrical glass 421 via a member such as a polymer coating layer 424 and/or a bundling member 426, as described later. Can be combined indirectly. The optically transparent polymer 422 and the cylindrical glass 421 may be bonded to each other, for example, by the viscosity or adhesiveness of the optically transparent polymer 422 material itself. The optically transparent polymer 422 may be a soft polymer material with flexibility. In some embodiments, it may have an elastic modulus (or elastic modulus) of about 300 MPa (mega pascal) or less. This will be described later.

Optically clear polymer 422 may include a variety of optically clear resins, such as optical grade polyurethane, silicone, acrylic, polyvinyl acetate, epoxy resin, or mixtures containing at least one of these. The optical properties such as refractive index and/or dispersion rate of the optically transparent polymer 422 may be similar to those of the cylindrical glass 421, and preferably have optical properties substantially the same as those of the cylindrical glass 421. It can be adjusted. Therefore, distortion of the image displayed on the flexible display panel 410 due to refraction of light occurring in the cylindrical glass 421 can be reduced.

The flat portion 420b of the flexible window 420 may include flat glass 423. Since the flat portion 420b is an area of the flexible displays 400a and 400b in which bending does not occur, the flat glass 423 has a thickness greater than materials such as ultra-thin glass or transparent polyimide, for example, exceeding 100 micrometers. It can have a thickness similar to that of other metals, and can have high impact resistance accordingly.

Referring to FIG. 6E, the distal end of the flat glass 423 adjacent to the bent portion 420a may be the distal portion 423a having a rectangular cross-sectional shape, but the structural strength is increased by preventing stress concentration at the edge. In order to reduce visibility deterioration due to rapid changes in optical properties of the distal end of the flat glass 423, the distal end 423b may have rounded edges or the distal end 423c may have a semicircular cross-sectional shape. In another embodiment, the distal end of the flat glass 423 may be a distal end 423d having a cross-sectional shape in which at least one edge is chamfered. Compared to rounding, chamfering processing on the edges can easily process relatively thin flat glass 423 while reducing stress concentration on the edges.

In some embodiments, the protective film 430 may be positioned on the top of the window based on the image display direction (z direction) of the flexible displays 400a and 400b. The protective film 430 may be a layer that protects the soft, optically transparent polymer 422 from the outside. The protective film 430 may be attached to the surface of the flexible window 420 by an optically clear adhesive (OCA), preferably a material similar to the optically clear polymer 422 of the bent portion 420a. .

In some embodiments, the protective film 430 may include a polymer material including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), transparent polyimide, polyurethane, or a mixture thereof. In another embodiment, the protective film 430 may include thermally or chemically strengthened ultra-thin glass (UTG).

In some embodiments, a hard coating layer 431 may be formed on the upper surface of the flexible displays 400a and 400b based on the image display direction (z direction). The hard coating layer 431 is a layer with higher hardness than the matrix of the protective film 430. For example, a coating solution containing a photoinitiator is applied to the surface of the protective film 430 and irradiated with ultraviolet rays. It may include a layer formed by curing. The hard coating layer 431 can protect the flexible displays 400a and 400b and the protective film 430 from damage such as scratches.

In some embodiments, the window back film 440 may be positioned on the lower surface (surface in the -z direction) of the flexible window 420 based on the image display direction of the flexible displays 400a and 400b. The back film 440 can restrict the flow of the cylindrical glass 421 and block direct contact between the flexible display panel 410 and the optically transparent polymer 422 by sealing the optically transparent polymer 422 of the window. The material of the back film 440 may be the same or similar to the material of the protective film 430 described above. In some embodiments, the back film 440 may include an optically clear adhesive (OCA) layer located on a surface in contact with the optically transparent polymer 422 and adhered to the optically transparent polymer 422 .

In some embodiments, a support layer 450 may be located below the flexible display panel 410 (-z direction). The support layer 450 can help reinforce the rigidity of the electronic device 101, shield ambient noise generated from other components of the electronic device 101, and eliminate noise generated when the flexible display panel 410 operates. Can be used to dissipate heat. The support layer 450 may include a metal material. Metals have electrical and thermal conductivity, so they can be effective in noise shielding and heat dissipation. The metal may include stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or a composite material thereof (for example, a member in which different metals are stacked in a plate shape). In some embodiments, support layer 450 is a lattice plate that can be bent to follow the bending motion of flexible displays 400a and 400b and can mechanically support components of flexible displays 400a and 400b. ) structure may be included.

6E and 6F, in some embodiments, a plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 are spaced apart from each other, and the space between each cylindrical glass 421 may be filled with an optically transparent polymer. . Referring to FIGS. 6G and 6H , in another embodiment, the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 may be in contact with each other. When the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 come into contact with each other, the rigidity and impact resistance of the bent portion 420a may be increased. Additionally, when the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other, the flexibility of the bent portion 420a may be increased. The spacing between the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 may be determined to be a value that optimizes the flexibility, rigidity, and impact resistance of the bent portion.

Referring to FIGS. 6I and 6J, the flexible displays 400a and 400b including the cylindrical glass 421 disposed on the bent portion 420a are bent around the bending axis 403. You can. When the bent portion 420a is bent, the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 included in the bent portion 420a may be moved to a position corresponding to the bent shape of the bent portion 420a. Additionally, the plurality of cylinder glasses 421 can be maintained in a state where they are bonded to each other while being bent. Therefore, compared to the window material according to the comparative example, such as polyimide film or ultra-thin glass, it can have a thick thickness and thus high impact resistance.

The cylindrical glass 421 disposed in the bent portion 420a may flow in a direction including the thickness direction component of the window when the flexible displays 400a and 400b are bent. The above-described flow may be due to the fine viscoelastic behavior of the optically transparent polymer 422. Since the protective film 430 attached to the surface of the flexible displays 400a and 400b according to the comparative example has relatively high rigidity, buckling or similar elastic instability occurs during the bending operation of the flexible displays 400a and 400b. may cause deformation, and accordingly, there may be a risk that the protective film 430 may fall off from the surface of the bent portion 420a of the flexible display 400a, 400b. In the flexible displays 400a and 400b according to various embodiments of the present invention, the optically transparent polymer 422 of the bent portion 420a is a softer material than the protective film 430, and the cylindrical glass 421 is optically transparent. Since the polymer 422 is allowed to flow, the elastic instability applied to the protective film 430 can be at least partially resolved, thereby reducing the risk of the protective film 430 falling off.

Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view showing flexible displays 400a and 400b according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 7b is a cross-sectional view showing flexible displays 400a and 400b according to other embodiments of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B , the cylindrical glass 421 of the flexible displays 400a and 400b according to some embodiments includes a polymer coating layer that coats at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical glass 421. 424) may be included. The polymer coating layer 424 can prevent damage occurring on the surface of the cylindrical glass 421 during handling during the manufacturing of flexible displays 400a and 400b according to various embodiments of the present invention. In some embodiments, the polymer coating layers 424 that respectively coat the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 may be connected to each other. In some embodiments, the elastic modulus of the polymer coating layer 424 may have a different value than the elastic modulus of the optically clear polymer 422. For example, in some embodiments, the polymer coating layer 424 may have a higher elastic modulus than the optically transparent polymer 422. When an external impact is applied to the flexible displays 400a and 400b, the optically transparent polymer 422, which has a relatively low elastic modulus, reduces the impact force by ductility, and the polymer coating layer 424, which has a relatively high elastic modulus, reduces the impact force. By reinforcing the rigidity of the cylindrical glass 421, the impact resistance of the cylindrical glass 421 can be improved. In other embodiments, the polymer coating layer 424 may have a lower elastic modulus compared to the optically clear polymer 422. The optically transparent polymer 422 has relatively high rigidity to resist deformation due to external impact, and the polymer coating layer 424 has relatively high ductility to protect against shock transmitted to the cylindrical glass 421. It can be absorbed.

The cylindrical glass 421, the polymer coating layer 424, and the optically transparent polymer 422 may have similar or substantially the same optical properties, such as refractive index and/or dispersion index. Additionally, the interface between the cylindrical glass 421, the polymer coating layer 424, and the optically transparent polymer 422 is completely adhered to each other, thereby reducing visibility.

Figure 8a is a cross-sectional view showing flexible displays 400a and 400b according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 8b is a cross-sectional view showing flexible displays 400a and 400b according to other embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 8c is a cross-sectional view showing the cylindrical glass 421 of the flexible displays 400a and 400b according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 8A , 8B and 8C , the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 of the flexible displays 400a and 400b may be bundled into a bundle 425 by a bundling member 426 . The bundling member 426 may include various optical grade polymer materials that surround and bind the outer periphery of the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421. The number of cylindrical glasses 421 bundled into the bundle 425 may be increased or decreased by considering the bending radius and flexibility of the bent portion 420a. In some embodiments, the bent portion 401 of the flexible displays 400a and 400b may include one bundle 425. In another embodiment, the bend may include a plurality of bundles 425. 8A shows an embodiment in which the bent portion 401 includes two bundles 425, but it will be apparent that the present invention is not limited thereto and the bent portion 401 may include one or more bundles.

The bundling member 426 may facilitate aligning the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 to be parallel to each other when manufacturing the flexible displays 400a and 400b. In addition, the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 are connected to each other by the bundling member 426, so that the individual cylindrical glasses 421 are disposed of the cylindrical glass 421 during the bending operation of the flexible displays 400a and 400b. Excessive deviation or protrusion from the area can be reduced.

In some embodiments, bundling member 426 may have a different elastic modulus than optically clear polymer 422. For example, the bundling member 426 may have a higher elastic modulus than the optically transparent polymer 422. When an external impact is applied to the flexible displays 400a and 400b, the bundling member 426 or the optically transparent polymer 422 with a low elastic modulus (e.g., the optically transparent polymer 422) absorbs the impact force through ductility. and a high elastic modulus (for example, the bundling member 426) can increase the impact resistance of the cylindrical glass 421 by reinforcing the rigidity of the cylindrical glass 421. Additionally, the cylindrical glass 421, the bundling member 426, and the optically transparent polymer 422 may have similar or substantially the same optical properties, such as refractive index and/or dispersion index.

Referring to FIG. 8C , in some embodiments, the thickness of the bundle 425 is the same as the diameter of the cylindrical glass 421, and the bundling member 426 fills the space between the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421. A plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 can be adhered to each other. In another embodiment, the bundle 425-1 may include a bundling member 426 located in a portion of the space between the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421. In another embodiment, the thickness of the bundle 425-2 may be greater than the diameter of the cylindrical glass 421, and the bundling member 426 may entirely surround the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 on the outer periphery.

Figure 9a is a cross-sectional view showing flexible displays 400a and 400b according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view showing flexible displays 400a and 400b according to other embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view showing the cylindrical glass 421 of the flexible displays 400a and 400b according to some embodiments of the present invention.

9A , 9B and 9C , the flexible displays 400a and 400b include a polymer coating layer 424 surrounding each cylindrical glass 421 and bundling surrounding the outer periphery of a plurality of cylindrical glasses 421. It may include member 426. Regarding the configuration and effect of the polymer coating layer 424 and the bundling member 426, reference may be made to the descriptions of FIGS. 7A to 8C as long as there is no conflict. The cylindrical glass 421, the polymer coating layer 424, the bundling member 426, and the optically transparent polymer 422 may have similar or substantially the same optical properties, such as refractive index and/or dispersion index. In some embodiments, the elastic modulus of the optically clear polymer 422, bundling member 426, and polymer coating layer 424 may gradually increase or decrease. Therefore, when an impact is applied from the outside, the impact force is transferred from an area with a low elastic modulus to an area with a high elastic modulus, thereby gradually reducing the impact force, and the rigidity of the cylindrical glass 421 can be effectively reinforced.

Referring to Figure 9C, in some embodiments, the thickness of the bundle 425 is equal to the diameter of the cylindrical glass 421 coated with the coating layer 424, and the bundling member 426 includes a plurality of cylindrical glasses ( A plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 can be adhered to each other while filling the space between them. In another embodiment, the bundle 425-1 may include a bundling member 426 located in a portion of the space between the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421. In another embodiment, the thickness of the bundle 425-2 may be greater than the diameter of the cylindrical glass 421, and the bundling member 426 may entirely surround the plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 on the outer periphery.

Figure 10a is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 400b according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 10b is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 400b according to other embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 10c is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 400b according to still other embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 10d is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 400b according to still other embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 10e is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 400b according to still other embodiments of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 10A, the flexible display 400b has an upper cylindrical glass 421a including a plurality of cylindrical glasses 421 disposed on the upper side based on the image display direction (e.g., z-direction) of the flexible display 400b. ) and a lower cylindrical glass 421b disposed below the upper cylindrical glass 421a. Figure 10a shows a configuration in which the cylindrical glass 421 is arranged in two layers, but this is an example and the present invention is not limited thereto. The cylindrical glass 421 according to various embodiments of the present invention has three layers. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above plurality of layers can be laminated. In some embodiments, the lower cylindrical glass 421b may be arranged to be staggered with the upper cylindrical glass 421a to increase the density of the cylindrical glass 421. The cylindrical glass 421 of the flexible display 400b is laminated in a plurality of layers including the upper cylindrical glass 421a and the lower cylindrical glass 421b, thereby increasing the rigidity and/or impact resistance of the bent portion 401. This can be improved. In some embodiments, the upper and lower cylindrical glasses 421a and 421b may have smaller diameters than the cylindrical glass 421 arranged in a single layer. For example, the diameter of the upper and lower cylindrical glasses may be 30 to 300 micrometers.

Referring to FIGS. 10B and 10C , the flexible display 400b may include a first cylindrical glass 421c and a second cylindrical glass 421d having different diameters. . Referring to FIG. 10B , in some embodiments, the first cylindrical glass 421c may have a larger diameter than the second cylindrical glass 421d. For example, the first cylindrical glass 421c may have a diameter of 30 to 300 micrometers, and the second cylindrical glass 421d may have a diameter of 30 to 200 micrometers. Referring to FIG. 10B, in some embodiments, the first and second cylindrical glasses 421c and 421d of the flexible display 400b include a second cylindrical glass (421c, 421d) in the gap formed between the first cylindrical glass 421c. It can be arranged so that at least part of 421d) enters. By including the first cylindrical glass 421c and the second cylindrical glass 421d having different diameters, it can be arranged at high density and the rigidity and/or impact resistance of the bent portion 401 can be improved.

Referring to FIG. 10C, in another embodiment, the first cylindrical glass 421c may have a smaller diameter than the second cylindrical glass 421d. In some embodiments, the first and second cylindrical glasses 421c and 421d may be arranged so that at least a portion of the first cylindrical glass 421c fits into the gap formed between the second cylindrical glasses 421d. .

Referring to FIG. 10D, the first cylindrical glass 421c and the second cylindrical glass 421d of the flexible display 400b may each be coated with a polymer coating layer 424. Regarding the effect according to the coating, reference may be made to the description of FIGS. 7A to 7C as long as there is no contradiction. When manufacturing the flexible displays 400a and 400b, the risk of damage to the second cylindrical glass 421d during handling is relatively high due to its relatively low thickness, so the risk of damage can be reduced with the polymer coating layer 424.

Referring to FIG. 10E, the flexible display 400b includes a plurality of bundling members 426a, 426b, and 426c that bundle together at least a portion of the upper cylindrical glass 421a and at least a portion of the lower cylindrical glass 421b. can do. Figure 10d shows three bundling members 426a, 426b, and 426c, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The bundling members 426a, 426b, and 426c wrap and bind the upper and lower cylindrical glasses 421a and 421b, so that when the bending portion 420a is bent, the vertical direction (z) of the plurality of layers of cylindrical glass 421 While reducing the axial flow, the flexibility and rigidity of the bent portion 420a can be secured.

10A to 10E illustrate embodiments of the flexible display 400b of FIG. 6B, but the description of the above-described technical features of the flexible display 400b of FIG. 6B is also applicable to the flexible display 400a of FIG. 6A. will be self-evident.

In addition, the embodiments of the present invention disclosed in the specification and drawings are merely presented as specific examples to easily explain the technical content according to the embodiments of the present invention and to aid understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, and are not limited to the scope of the embodiments of the present invention. It is not intended to limit it. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of the present invention should be construed as including all changes or modified forms derived based on the technical idea of the various embodiments of the present invention in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein.

400a, 400b: Flexible display
401: bend part
402: Flat part
410: Flexible display panel
420: Flexible window
421: Cylindrical glass
422: Optically transparent polymer
423: Flat glass
430: Protective film
431: Hard coating layer
440: Back film

Claims (20)

In electronic devices,
A flexible display panel that displays an image in a first direction and is capable of bending and unfolding, and is disposed in the first direction of the flexible display panel based on the direction in which the image of the flexible display panel is displayed, and is capable of bending and unfolding about a bending axis. Comprising a flexible display including a flexible window including at least one bent portion and a flat portion,
The flat portion includes flat glass,
The bending part,
a plurality of cylindrical glasses oriented parallel to the bending axis on a plane where the flat glass is disposed in the unfolded state of the flexible window; and
The bent portion is disposed in a region of the plurality of cylindrical glasses located in the first direction and a region located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and is directly or indirectly connected to the plurality of cylindrical glasses. An electronic device comprising a flexible, optically transparent polymer. According to claim 1,
The electronic device is a foldable electronic device including at least one hinge and a plurality of sub-housings rotatably connected by the hinge,
The flexible display is disposed in a plurality of sub-housings connected by the hinge,
The bent portion is located in an area of the flexible display corresponding to the hinge. According to claim 1,
The electronic device is a rollable electronic device including a first housing and a second housing into which the first housing is inserted and withdrawn,
The flexible display has one end disposed on the first housing and the other end disposed on the second housing, and when the first housing is inserted into and withdrawn from the second housing, the other end is inserted into the second housing. and an electronic device that is drawn out, and the bent portion is located at the other end. According to claim 1,
The optically transparent polymer has the same refractive index as the cylindrical glass. According to claim 1,
An electronic device comprising a polymer coating layer coating an outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical glass. According to claim 5,
The electronic device wherein the polymer coating layer has an elastic modulus different from that of the optically transparent polymer. According to claim 1,
An electronic device comprising a bundling member surrounding the exterior of the plurality of cylindrical glasses. According to claim 7,
An electronic device having an elastic modulus different from that of the optically transparent polymer of the bundling member. According to claim 1,
The flexible display includes an upper cylindrical glass including a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed at an upper portion based on the image display direction of the flexible display, and a lower portion including a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed below the upper layer. An electronic device comprising cylindrical glass. According to claim 1,
The cylindrical glass includes a first cylindrical glass and a second cylindrical glass having a smaller diameter than the first cylindrical glass. According to claim 10,
The second cylindrical glass is disposed in a gap between the plurality of first cylindrical glasses.
As a flexible display,
A flexible display panel that displays an image in a first direction and is capable of bending and unfolding; and
a flexible window disposed in the first direction of the flexible display panel based on a direction in which an image of the flexible display panel is displayed, and including at least one bent portion and a flat portion capable of bending and unfolding about a bending axis;
The flat portion includes flat glass,
The bending part,
a plurality of cylindrical glasses oriented parallel to the bending axis on a plane where the flat glass is disposed in the unfolded state of the flexible window; and
The bent portion is disposed in a region of the plurality of cylindrical glasses located in the first direction and a region located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and is directly or indirectly connected to the plurality of cylindrical glasses. A flexible display comprising a flexible, optically transparent polymer. According to claim 12,
A flexible display wherein the optically transparent polymer has the same refractive index as the cylindrical glass. According to claim 12,
A flexible display comprising a polymer coating layer coating an outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical glass. According to claim 14,
A flexible display wherein the polymer coating layer has an elastic modulus different from that of the optically transparent polymer. According to claim 12,
A flexible display comprising a bundling member surrounding the exterior of the plurality of cylindrical glasses. According to claim 16,
A flexible display having an elastic modulus different from that of the optically transparent polymer of the bundling member. According to claim 12,
The flexible display includes an upper cylindrical glass including a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed at an upper portion based on the image display direction of the flexible display, and a lower portion including a plurality of cylindrical glasses disposed below the upper layer. Flexible display including cylindrical glass. According to claim 12,
A flexible display wherein the cylindrical glass includes a first cylindrical glass and a second cylindrical glass having a smaller diameter than the first cylindrical glass. According to claim 19,
A flexible display wherein the second cylindrical glass is disposed in a gap between the plurality of first cylindrical glasses.

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