WO2022119237A1

WO2022119237A1 - Flexible electronic device and method for operating same

Info

Publication number: WO2022119237A1
Application number: PCT/KR2021/017509
Authority: WO
Inventors: 유민우; 안정철
Original assignee: 삼성전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2020-12-03
Filing date: 2021-11-25
Publication date: 2022-06-09

Abstract

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a flexible display, a multi-bar structure, a support plate, a sensor module, a bracket, a printed circuit board, and a contact member. The flexible display may include a first area arranged to be viewed from the outside and a second area which extends from the first area and is arranged to be accommodated therein in a first state, and to be viewed from the outside in a second state. The multi-bar structure may be arranged on the rear surface of the flexible display to support the flexible display in the first state and the second state. The support plate may support at least a portion of the flexible display and include a hole that forms an opening. The sensor module may be arranged in the hole of the support plate. The bracket may be arranged below the support plate. The printed circuit board may be arranged below the bracket. The contact member may electrically connect the bracket to the printed circuit board. The sensor module may include a pressure sensor for sensing pressure and/or a touch sensor for touching a touch.

Description

Flexible electronic device and operating method thereof

Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a flexible electronic device and an operating method thereof.

Electronic devices are gradually becoming slimmer, and are being improved to increase rigidity, strengthen design aspects, and differentiate functional elements thereof. BACKGROUND ART Electronic devices are gradually being transformed into various shapes, away from a uniform rectangular shape. The electronic device may have a deformable structure capable of using a large-screen display while being convenient to carry. For example, as an example of a deformable structure, the electronic device may have a structure (eg, a rollable structure or a slideable structure) capable of changing the display area of the flexible display through the support of housings that slide with respect to each other. have. The rollable electronic device is configured so that the rollable display can be rolled up or unfolded, and the slideable electronic device is configured so that the screen can be expanded and contracted by moving the flexible display in a sliding manner.

The flexible electronic device according to an embodiment may sense a state before and after the expansion of the display, and may not sense an intermediate state in which the display is expanded. For this reason, the screen cannot be displayed in an intermediate state in which the display is being expanded, and the display quality may be deteriorated, such as flickering by treating the screen as a black screen. On the other hand, when a screen is displayed in an intermediate state in which the display is being expanded, the length of the image in the first direction (eg, vertical direction) or the second direction (eg, horizontal direction) of the image does not match the size of the expanded display and the image An image may be displayed because the length of is distorted. Various embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to providing a rollable electronic device capable of sensing a screen expansion/reduction state of a flexible display and an operating method thereof.

The technical problems to be achieved in the present invention are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below. have.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a flexible display, a multi-bar structure, a support plate, a sensor module, a bracket, a printed circuit board, and a contact member. The flexible display may include a first area arranged to be seen from the outside, and a second area extending from the first area to be accommodated therein in a first state and to be visible from the outside in a second state. The multi-bar structure may be disposed on a rear surface of the flexible display to support the flexible display in the first state and the second state. The support plate may include a hole that supports at least a portion of the flexible display and forms an opening. The sensor module may be disposed in a hole of the support plate. The bracket may be disposed under the support plate. The printed circuit board may be disposed under the bracket. The contact member may electrically connect the bracket and the printed circuit board. The sensor module may include a pressure sensor for sensing pressure and/or a touch sensor for sensing a touch.

A rollable electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure senses a screen expansion/reduction state of a flexible display while fixing a position of a pressure sensor (eg, a home key) touched by a user even if the screen of the flexible display is expanded or contracted can do.

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

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

2A is a diagram illustrating a first state (eg, a screen reduction state) (eg, a slide-in state) (eg, a slide-close state) of the rollable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

2B is a diagram illustrating a second state (eg, a screen extended state) (eg, a slide-out state) (eg, a slide open state) of the rollable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating at least a portion of a flexible electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating at least a portion of a flexible electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

5A is a diagram illustrating a bracket of a flexible electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 5B is a view illustrating that the bracket and the printed circuit board are electrically connected through a contact member.

6A is a view illustrating a position of a pressure sensor (eg, a touch sensor, a fingerprint sensor) moving before (eg, in a screen-reduced state) and after (eg, in a screen-expanded state) of the flexible display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; It is a drawing for explaining what becomes.

6B is a diagram illustrating a structure of a capacitor type pressure sensor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

7 is a diagram illustrating a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

8A to 8C are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A of FIG. 7 , illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

9 is a view for explaining a method of operating a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

10 is a diagram for explaining an operation method of the pressure sensor 800 of the flexible electronic device 700 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

11A to 11C are diagrams illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

12 is a view for explaining a method of operating a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

13 is a diagram illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

14 and 15 are diagrams illustrating that a flexible electronic device is expanded in a short axis direction (eg, an x-axis direction) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

16 is a diagram illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor when a flexible electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is expanded in a short axis direction (eg, an x-axis direction).

17A to 17C are diagrams illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

18 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement of a pressure sensor when the flexible electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is expanded in a short-axis direction (eg, an x-axis direction).

19A to 19C are diagrams illustrating an arrangement structure and operation of a capacitive sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

20 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement of a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

21 is a diagram illustrating a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

22A to 22C are diagrams illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

24 is a diagram illustrating a driving method for expanding a screen of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

25 and 26 are diagrams illustrating changing the corner masking area of the flexible display according to the rolling of the flexible display.

27, 28A, and 28B are diagrams illustrating changing the corner masking area of the flexible display according to the rolling of the flexible display.

29A and 29B are diagrams illustrating shifting a gradation area in order to improve burn-in of an electronic device.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1 , in a network environment 100 , an electronic device 101 communicates with an electronic device 102 through a first network 198 (eg, a short-range wireless communication network) or a second network 199 . It may communicate with at least one of the electronic device 104 and the server 108 through (eg, a long-distance wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 through the server 108 . According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 includes a processor 120 , a memory 130 , an input module 150 , a sound 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 an antenna module 197 may be included. 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 (eg, sensor module 176 , camera module 180 , or antenna module 197 ) are integrated into one component (eg, display module 160 ). can be

The processor 120, for example, executes software (eg, a program 140) to execute at least one other component (eg, a hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 connected to the processor 120 . It can control and perform various data processing or operations. According to an embodiment, as at least part of data processing or operation, the processor 120 stores a command or data received from another component (eg, the sensor module 176 or the communication module 190 ) into the volatile memory 132 . may be stored in the volatile memory 132 , and may process commands or data stored in the volatile memory 132 , and store the result data in the non-volatile memory 134 . According to an embodiment, the processor 120 is the main processor 121 (eg, a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor 123 (eg, a graphic processing unit, a neural network processing unit) a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, when the electronic device 101 includes the main processor 121 and the sub-processor 123 , the sub-processor 123 may use less power than the main processor 121 or may be set to be specialized for a specified function. can The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented separately from or as a part of the main processor 121 .

The auxiliary processor 123 is, for example, on behalf of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (eg, sleep) state, or the main processor 121 is active (eg, executing an application). ), together with the main processor 121, at least one of the components of the electronic device 101 (eg, the display module 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190) It is possible to control at least some of the related functions or states. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (eg, an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (eg, the camera module 180 or the communication module 190). have. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (eg, a neural network processing device) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. Artificial intelligence models can be created through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, in the electronic device 101 itself on which the artificial intelligence model is performed, or may be performed through a separate server (eg, the server 108). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but in the above example not limited The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. Artificial neural networks include deep neural networks (DNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), restricted boltzmann machines (RBMs), deep belief networks (DBNs), bidirectional recurrent deep neural networks (BRDNNs), It may be one of deep Q-networks or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the above example. The artificial intelligence model may include, in addition to, or alternatively, a software structure in addition to the hardware structure.

The memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device 101 (eg, the processor 120 or the sensor module 176 ). The data may include, for example, input data or output data for software (eg, the program 140 ) and instructions related thereto. The memory 130 may include a volatile memory 132 or a 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 an application 146 .

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

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

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

The audio module 170 may convert a sound into an electric signal or, conversely, convert an electric signal into a sound. According to an embodiment, the audio module 170 acquires a sound through the input module 150 or an external electronic device (eg, a sound output module 155 ) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101 . A sound may be output through the electronic device 102 (eg, a speaker or headphones).

The sensor module 176 detects an operating state (eg, power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or an external environmental state (eg, user state), and generates an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the sensed state. can do. According to an embodiment, the sensor module 176 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric 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, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface 177 may support one or more designated protocols that may be used by the electronic device 101 to directly or wirelessly connect with an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102 ). According to an 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 an 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 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (eg, vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sense. According to an embodiment, the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

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

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

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

The communication module 190 is a direct (eg, wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device 101 and an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 102, the electronic device 104, or the server 108). It can support establishment and communication performance through the established communication channel. The communication module 190 may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor 120 (eg, an application processor) and support direct (eg, wired) communication or wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module 190 is a wireless communication module 192 (eg, 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 (eg, : It may include a LAN (local area network) communication module, or a power line communication module). A corresponding communication module among these communication modules is a first network 198 (eg, a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network 199 (eg, legacy It may communicate with the external electronic device 104 through a cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (eg, a telecommunication network such as a LAN or a WAN). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (eg, a single chip) or may be implemented as a plurality of components (eg, multiple chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module 192 uses the subscriber information (eg, 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 may be identified or authenticated.

The wireless communication module 192 may support a 5G network after a 4G network and a next-generation communication technology, for example, a new radio access technology (NR). NR access technology includes 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)). The wireless communication module 192 may support a high frequency band (eg, mmWave band) to achieve a high data rate, for example. The wireless communication module 192 includes various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, for example, beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), all-dimensional multiplexing. It may support technologies such as full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), an array antenna, analog beam-forming, or a large scale antenna. The wireless communication module 192 may support various requirements specified in the electronic device 101 , an external electronic device (eg, the electronic device 104 ), or a network system (eg, the second network 199 ). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 includes a peak data rate (eg, 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (eg, 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, or U-plane latency ( Example: downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less).

The antenna module 197 may transmit or receive a signal or power to the outside (eg, an external electronic device). According to an embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include an antenna including a conductor formed on a substrate (eg, a PCB) or a radiator formed of a conductive pattern. According to an 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 from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module 190 . can be selected. A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module 190 and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, other components (eg, a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiator may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module 197 .

According to various embodiments, the antenna module 197 may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module comprises a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first side (eg, bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (eg, mmWave band); and a plurality of antennas (eg, an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent to a second side (eg, top or side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals of 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 (eg, a bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)) and a signal ( eg commands or data) can be exchanged with each other.

According to an embodiment, the command 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 the same as or different from the electronic device 101 . According to an embodiment, all or part of the operations performed by the electronic device 101 may be executed by one or more external

electronic devices

102 , 104 , or 108 . For example, when the electronic device 101 is to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or other device, the electronic device 101 may perform the function or service itself instead of executing the function or service itself. Alternatively or additionally, one or more external electronic devices may be requested to perform at least a part of the function or the service. One or more external electronic devices that have received the request may execute at least a part of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit a result of the execution to the electronic device 101 . The electronic device 101 may process the result as it is or additionally and provide it as at least a part of a response to the request. For this, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may 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 an embodiment, the external electronic device 104 or the server 108 may be included in the second network 199 . The electronic device 101 may be applied to an intelligent service (eg, smart home, smart city, smart car, or health care) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

The electronic device according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be a device of various types. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (eg, a smart phone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance device. The flexible electronic device according to the embodiment of this document is 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 modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, like reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or more of the item, unless the relevant context clearly dictates 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 , B, or C" each may include any one of, or all possible combinations of, items listed together in the corresponding one of the phrases. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish an element from other elements in question, and may refer elements to other aspects (e.g., importance or order) is not limited. It is said that one (eg, first) component is "coupled" or "connected" to another (eg, second) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively". When referenced, it means that one component can be connected to the other component directly (eg by wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

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

According to various embodiments of the present document, one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (eg, internal memory 136 or external memory 138) readable by a machine (eg, electronic device 101) may be implemented as software (eg, the program 140) including For example, a processor (eg, processor 120 ) of a device (eg, electronic device 101 ) may call at least one command among one or more commands stored from a storage medium and execute it. This makes it possible for the device to be operated to perform at least one function according to the called at least one command. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The device-readable storage medium 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 include a signal (eg, electromagnetic wave), and this term is used in cases where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and It does not distinguish between temporary storage cases.

According to an embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided by being included in a computer program product. Computer program products may be traded between sellers and buyers as commodities. The computer program product is distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (eg compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or through an application store (eg Play Store™) or on two user devices ( It can be distributed (eg downloaded or uploaded) directly between smartphones (eg: smartphones) and online. In the case of online distribution, at least a part of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium such as a memory of a server of a manufacturer, a server of an application store, or a relay server.

According to various embodiments, each component (eg, a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a singular or a plurality of entities, and some of the plurality of entities may be separately disposed in other components. . According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations among the above-described corresponding components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (eg, a module or a program) may be integrated into one component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each component of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. . According to various embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component are executed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations are executed in a different order, omitted, or , or one or more other operations may be added.

According to an embodiment, the display module 160 shown in FIG. 1 may include a flexible display configured to be folded or unfolded.

According to an embodiment, the display module 160 shown in FIG. 1 may include a flexible display that is slidably disposed to provide a screen (eg, a display screen).

For example, the display area of the display of the electronic device 101 is an area that is visually exposed to output an image, and the electronic device 101 displays the display according to the movement of the sliding plate (not shown) or the movement of the display. display area can be adjusted. A rollable electronic device configured to selectively expand a display area of a display by at least partially slidably operating at least a part of the electronic device 101 (eg, a housing) is such a display. It may be an example including the module 160 . For example, the display module 160 may be referred to as a slide-out display or an expandable display.

2A is a diagram illustrating a first state (eg, a screen reduction state) (eg, a slide-in state) (eg, a slide-close state) of the rollable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 2B is a diagram illustrating a second state (eg, a screen extended state) (eg, a slide-out state) (eg, a slide open state) of the rollable electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

2A and 2B , the flexible electronic device 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a display 210 (eg, the display module 160 of FIG. 1 ),

housings

220 and 230 , and electronic components. The mounted at least one printed circuit board (PCB) and/or at least one flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), and a battery (eg, the battery 189 of FIG. 1 ) may be included. can Here, at least one printed circuit board (PCB) includes a processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ), a memory (eg, the memory 130 of FIG. 1 ), and an audio module (eg, the audio module 170 of FIG. 1 ). )), sensor module (eg, sensor module 176 in FIG. 1 ), interface (eg, interface 177 in FIG. 1 ), connection terminal (eg, connection terminal 178 in FIG. 1 ), power management module ( Example: power management module 188 of FIG. 1 ), antenna module (eg, antenna module 197 of FIG. 1 ), haptic module (eg, haptic module 179 of FIG. 1 )), camera module (eg, of FIG. 1 ) The camera module 180), and a communication module (eg, the communication module 190 of FIG. 1) may be included.

The

housings

220 and 230 may include a first housing 220 (eg, a main housing) and a second housing 230 (eg, a slide housing). At least a portion of the second housing 230 may be inserted into and withdrawn from the first housing 220 .

According to an embodiment, a space may be provided inside the

housings

220 and 230 , and the display 210 (eg, the display module 160 of FIG. 1 ) is disposed in the interior space of the

housings

220 and 230 . can be

According to an embodiment, various electronic components of the electronic device 200 may be disposed in the inner space of the

housings

220 and 230 .

The display 210 is a flexible or rollable display, and may be disposed so that a portion of the display is bent or wound in the inner space of the

housings

220 and 230 . The display 210 may be drawn out or retracted in association with the rotation of the rotation shaft disposed on one side of the inner space of the

housings

220 and 230 . Here, the rotation shaft may rotate in association with the sliding of the second housing 230 .

According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 200 is in a first state (eg, a screen reduced state) (eg, a slide-in state) (eg, a slide-close state), the second housing 230 moves in a first direction (eg, a slide-close state). : A portion of the second housing 230 may be introduced into the interior of the first housing 220 by moving (eg, sliding) in the -Y-axis direction. The second housing 230 may move in the first direction (eg, - When moving (eg, sliding) in the Y-axis direction), the display 210 (eg, the display module 160 of FIG. 1 ) is drawn in (eg, sliding down the screen) in the first direction (eg, the -Y-axis direction). According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 200 is in a second state (eg, a screen extended state) (eg, a slide-out state) (eg, a slide open state), the second housing 230 ) is moved (eg, slid) in the second direction (eg, the Y-axis direction), so that a part of the second housing 230 may be withdrawn to the outside of the first housing 220. The second housing 230 may be When moving (eg, sliding) in the second direction (eg, the Y-axis direction), the display 210 (eg, the display module 160 of FIG. 1 ) is drawn out in the second direction (eg, the Y-axis direction) (eg: screen expansion sliding), the display 210 may be expanded.

According to an embodiment, when the display 210 is not slid and is exposed to a first length (or first width), it is displayed in a first state (eg, a screen reduction state) (eg, slide-in) of the electronic device 200 . state) (eg slide closed state). Also, the first state of the electronic device 200 may be defined as a display reduction, display in, slide close, or slide in state.

According to an embodiment, when the display 210 is slid and exposed to a second length (or a second width), the electronic device 200 displays it in a second state (eg, a screen extended state) (eg, a slide-out state). ) (eg slide open state). Also, the second state of the electronic device 200 may be defined as a display extended state, a display out state, a slide open state, or a slide out state.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 200 is in a third state (eg, an intermediate state between a screen expansion and a screen reduction) (eg, a free-stop state, a screen size change state, a slide state) as well as the first state and the second state. intermediate state between in and slide out).

As an embodiment, the third state (eg, an intermediate state between screen expansion and screen reduction) of the electronic device 200 (eg, a free-stop state, a screen size change state, an intermediate state between slide-in and slide-out) of the electronic device 200 includes a display ( In the screen reduction state of 210 , the slide-out does not proceed completely, and the display 210 may include a state in which a part of the display 210 is unfolded or a state in which a part of the display 210 is unfolded (eg, a sliding state).

As an embodiment, the third state (eg, an intermediate state between screen expansion and screen reduction) of the electronic device 200 (eg, a free-stop state, a screen size change state, an intermediate state between slide-in and slide-out) of the electronic device 200 includes a display ( In the screen expansion state of 210, slide-in does not proceed completely, and includes a state in which a part of the display 210 is slide-in or a state in which a part of the display 210 is being drawn in (eg, a sliding state). can do.

As an embodiment, the third state (eg, an intermediate state between screen expansion and screen reduction) of the electronic device 200 (eg, a free-stop state, a screen size change state, an intermediate state between slide-in and slide-out) of the electronic device 200 includes a display ( It may include a state in which the screen size of the display 210 is being expanded and/or a state in which the screen size of the display 210 is being reduced.

The electronic device 200 includes at least one sensor module (eg, FIG. 1 ) for sensing a first state (eg, a screen reduced state), a second state (eg, a screen enlarged state), or a third state (eg, a free-stop state). of the sensor module 176).

According to an embodiment, the electronic device 200 uses a sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ) to obtain a first state (eg, a reduced screen state), a second state (a screen enlarged state), or a second state (eg, a reduced screen state). 3 states (eg, free-stop state) can be sensed. A sensing result of the sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ) may be transmitted to a processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ). The processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) has a first state (eg, a reduced screen state) and a second state (eg, a screen enlarged) based on the sensing result of the sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ). state) or a third state (eg, a free-stop state).

3A is a diagram illustrating at least a portion of a flexible electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 3B is a diagram illustrating at least a portion of a flexible electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating at least a portion of a flexible electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

3A to 4 , the flexible electronic device 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a flexible display 310 , a multi-bar structure 320 , a support plate 330 , and a contact member 340 (eg: The contact member 340 of FIG. 5B ), the bracket 350 , the printed circuit board 360 , a battery (eg, the battery 189 of FIG. 1 ), and a housing (eg, the

housings

220 and 230 of FIG. 2 ); The housing 390 of FIG. 15 may be included. Here, the flexible display 310 may include an OLED display or an LCD display.

An inner space is provided by the housing of the flexible electronic device 300 , and the display 310 , the multi-bar structure 320 , the support plate 330 , the contact member 340 , the bracket 350 , and the printed circuit are provided in the inner space. A substrate 360 and a battery (eg, the battery 189 of FIG. 1 ) may be disposed.

According to an embodiment, the flexible display 310 may be formed of a flexible material, may be rolled, and may display an image according to an input image signal. The flexible display 310 may include a first area (eg, a fixed area) and a second area (eg, an extended area). The first region (eg, the fixed region) may be exposed to the outside in the first state (eg, the screen reduced state) (eg, the rollable-in state or the slide-in state). The second region (eg, the extended region) may be exposed to the outside in the second state (eg, the screen extended state) (eg, the rollable-out state and the slide-out state).

According to an embodiment, the multi-bar structure 320 may include a plurality of bars to perform a rolling operation of the flexible display 310 . The multi-bar structure 320 is attached to the rear surface of the flexible display 310 by using an adhesive member (eg, an adhesive or an adhesive tape), and a plurality of bending bars of the multi-bar structure 320 are spaced at a predetermined interval ( gap) can be placed. A support plate 330 may be disposed under the flexible display 310 . As an embodiment, the multi-bar structure 320 may include a plurality of bending bars rotatably connected to each other. The multi-bar structure 320 may include an upper surface formed through a plurality of bending bars and a rear surface (eg, a rear surface) facing in a direction opposite to the upper surface (eg, front surface). The upper surface of the multi-bar structure 320 may face the flexible display 310 , and the rear surface of the multi-bar structure 320 may face the internal space of the electronic device 200 . As an embodiment, each of the plurality of bending bars may include at least one of a POM layer, an acetal layer, or a Teflon layer to reduce friction. As an embodiment, each of the bending bars may include an alloy layer for rigidity of the multi-bar structure 320 .

According to an embodiment, the support plate 330 may be disposed under the flexible display 310 to support the flexible display 310 . The support plate 330 supports the flexible display 310 through the upper surface, and a battery (eg, the battery 188 of FIG. 1 ) and a printed circuit board 360 may be disposed in the space below. As an embodiment, the multi-bar structure 320 may be located in a portion that requires driving, and the support plate 330 may be located in a section that does not require driving.

A portion of the support plate 330 is cut to form a hole 332 (eg, a square hole, a circular hole, or a closed curved hole)), and the sensor module ( 370) can be arranged. The sensor module 370 may include a pressure sensor for sensing pressure and/or a touch sensor for sensing a touch. As an embodiment, the hole 332 formed in the support plate 330 is not only in the form of a rectangle, a circle, or a closed curve, but also a prismatic shape with one side (or one side) open, a semicircular shape with one side (or one side) open, or one side (or one side) may be formed in an open curved shape.

The bracket 350 may be disposed under the support plate 330 . The bracket 350 may be fixedly disposed regardless of the expansion of the flexible display 310 .

4 to 5B , the bracket 350 includes a first region 352 (eg, a support region), a second region 354 (eg, an insulating region), and a third region 356 (eg, sensing). electrode) may be included. The second area 354 and the third area 356 may be located in areas corresponding to the hole 332 of the support plate 330 .

As an embodiment, the first region 352 may be formed of a metal material to secure rigidity as a support region. The flexible display 310 may be supported through the first area 352 .

As an embodiment, the second region 354 is an insulating region and may be formed of an insulating material. The second region 354 may be formed between the first region 352 and the third region 356 to insulate the first region 352 and the third region 356 .

As an embodiment, the third region 356 may be formed of a conductive metal material as a sensing electrode. The third region 356 may be formed at a position corresponding to the hole 332 of the support plate 330 . The third region 356 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 360 through the contact member 340 .

As an embodiment, the bracket 350 may be formed of a metal material and an insulating material. For example, the first region 352 and the second region 354 may be formed of an insulating material, and the third region 356 may be formed of a conductive metal material.

As an embodiment, the contact member 340 may electrically connect the third region 356 of the bracket 350 and the printed circuit board 360 . A conductive C-clip may be applied to the contact member 340 . The present invention is not limited thereto, and a gasket poron, a gasket tape, and a conductive material or a member including a conductive material may be applied to the contact member 340 .

As an embodiment, the printed circuit board 360 may include a sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ) for sensing the extension of the flexible display 310 . A processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) may be disposed on another printed circuit board (eg, the main printed circuit board) of the electronic device 300 . A printed circuit board 360 including a sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ) and another printed circuit board (eg, a main printed circuit board) including a processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) ) may be electrically connected through a flexible circuit board (FPCB).

It may include a processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) and a sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ) for sensing the extension of the flexible display 310 . The third region 356 may be used as a sensing electrode for sensing the extension of the flexible display 310 .

6A is a view illustrating movement of a position of a pressure sensor (eg, a touch sensor, a fingerprint sensor) before the screen of the flexible display 310 (eg, in a reduced screen state) and after the screen is expanded (eg, in a screen expanded state). It is a drawing.

Referring to FIG. 6A , in the flexible electronic device 600 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the screen of the flexible display 310 may be expanded in a first direction (eg, a long axis direction, a y-axis direction).

As an example, a plurality of

pressure sensors

370a and 370b may be attached to and disposed under the flexible display 310 . A plurality of

pressure sensors

370a and 370b may be arranged in a line in a first direction (eg, a long axis direction, a y-axis direction). When the flexible display 310 extends in a first direction (eg, a long axis direction, a y-axis direction), the screen of the flexible display 310 may extend from the bottom. As the flexible display 310 expands, the plurality of

pressure sensors

370a and 370b attached to the lower portion of the flexible display 310 move.

For the convenience of the user's manipulation of the electronic device, the positions of the

pressure sensors

370a and 370b may be maintained.

The processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) may sense the expanded state of the flexible display 310 and control the driving of the plurality of

pressure sensors

370a and 370b according to the expanded state of the flexible display 310 . have.

As an example, before the flexible display 310 is expanded (eg, in a reduced screen state), the processor 120 controls the first pressure sensor 370a among the plurality of

pressure sensors

370a and 370b to operate, 2 It is possible to control the pressure sensor 370b not to operate. Before the flexible display 310 is expanded (eg, in a reduced screen state), the first pressure sensor 370a of the plurality of

pressure sensors

370a and 370b operates under the control of the processor 120 , and the second pressure The sensor 370b does not operate. That is, before the flexible display 310 is expanded (eg, in a reduced screen state), the first pressure sensor 370a positioned at the lower end of the screen of the flexible display 310 may operate.

As an example, after the flexible display 310 is expanded (eg, the screen expanded state), the processor 120 controls the first pressure sensor 370a of the plurality of

pressure sensors

370a and 370b not to operate, The second pressure sensor 370b may be controlled to operate. After the flexible display 310 is expanded (eg, in a screen expanded state), the first pressure sensor 370a among the plurality of

pressure sensors

370a and 370b does not operate, and the second pressure sensor 370a does not operate under the control of the processor 120 . The pressure sensor 370b is operable. That is, after the flexible display 310 is expanded (eg, in a screen expanded state), the second pressure sensor 370b positioned at the bottom of the screen of the flexible display 310 may operate.

Through this, the pressure sensor may be operated at the same position regardless of before the flexible display 310 is expanded (eg, in a screen reduced state) and after the flexible display 310 is expanded (eg, in a screen expanded state).

6B is a diagram illustrating a structure of a capacitor type pressure sensor.

Referring to FIG. 6B , the capacitor type pressure sensor 370 includes a first electrode 371 , a second electrode 372 , and a dielectric layer positioned between the first electrode 371 and the second electrode 372 ( 373) may be included.

The capacitor type pressure sensor 370 may sense a change in capacitance according to a change in the distance d between the first electrode 371 and the second electrode 372 . The dielectric layer 373 positioned between the first electrode 371 and the second electrode 372 may be formed of a material whose thickness changes according to an externally applied pressure. As an example, the dielectric layer 373 is a material having elasticity and restoring force, and is made of silicon, air, foam, membrane, optically transparent adhesive film (OCA), sponge, rubber, rubber, ink, or polymer. may include

7 is a diagram illustrating a flexible electronic device 700 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 8A to 8C are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A of FIG. 7 , illustrating the operation of the pressure sensor 800 of the flexible electronic device 700 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

7 to 8C , the flexible electronic device 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a pressure sensor 800 . The pressure sensor 800 may be an area to which a user may apply pressure from the outside. The pressure sensor 800 of the flexible electronic device 700 includes a first electrode 810 , a second electrode 820 , and a bracket 830 (eg, a third region of the bracket 350 of FIGS. 4 and 5A ). (356)). The first electrode 810 may include a plurality of

sub-electrodes

811 , 812 , 813 , and 814 . The second electrode 820 may include a plurality of

sub-electrodes

821 , 822 , 823 , and 824 . Channels of the pressure sensor 800 may be formed by the number of sub-electrodes 811 to 814 constituting the first electrode 810 and sub-electrodes 821 to 824 constituting the second electrode 820 . As an example, when the first electrode 810 includes four sub-electrodes 811-814 and the second electrode 820 includes four sub-electrodes 821-824, the pressure sensor ( 800) may include four sensor channels.

As an example, the first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed of the first sub-electrode 811 of the first electrode 810 and the first sub-electrode 821 of the second electrode 820 . A second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed by the second sub-electrode 812 of the first electrode 810 and the second sub-electrode 822 of the second electrode 820 . A third sensor channel sensor-3 may be formed by the third sub-electrode 813 of the first electrode 810 and the third sub-electrode 823 of the second electrode 820 . A fourth sensor channel sensor-4 may be formed by the fourth sub-electrode 814 of the first electrode 810 and the fourth sub-electrode 824 of the second electrode 820 .

Although the first electrode 810 and the second electrode 820 have been illustrated and described as including four sub-electrodes, respectively, the present invention is not limited thereto. The number of electrodes is not limited.

As an embodiment, the flexible electronic device 700 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a rolling unit 801 that is a point at which rolling of the flexible display 310 starts. The rolling part 801 may be a boundary point that separates the flat part from the curved part when the flexible display 310 is expanded or reduced.

According to an embodiment, based on the rolling part 801 of the flexible display 310 , a first sensor channel (sensor-1), a second sensor channel (sensor-2), a third sensor channel (sensor-3), and an expanded state (eg, closed, roll-up, full roll up) or screen reduction (eg, slide-in, crawl) of the flexible display 310 based on a sensing signal of at least one of the fourth sensor channel (sensor-4) It is possible to determine the closed (closed) state.

As an embodiment, at least one sensor channel (eg, a first sensor channel) may be located on the first side (eg, in the y-axis direction) with respect to the rolling part 801 . At least one sensor channel (a second sensor channel, a third sensor channel, and a fourth sensor channel) may be positioned on the second side (eg, in the -y-axis direction) with respect to the rolling part 801 . The sensor channel B located closest to the rolling part 801 in the first side (eg, y-axis direction) with respect to the rolling part 801 may operate as a pressure sensor (eg, a home key). . The last sensor channel A located closest to the rolling part 801 in the second side (eg, in the -y-axis direction) with respect to the rolling part 801 is the extended state (eg, closed, roll) of the flexible display 310 . -up, full roll up) can be operated for sensing purposes. The sensor channel B located closest to the first side (eg, the y-axis direction) with respect to the rolling part 801 may be located in front of the last sensor channel A.

As an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8A , when the flexible electronic device 700 is in a screen-reduced state, the first sub-electrode 811 of the first electrode 810 and the first sub-electrode 811 of the second electrode 820 are A first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed as the sub-electrode 821 . The first sub-electrode 811 of the first electrode 810 may operate as a sensing electrode, and the first sub-electrode 821 of the second electrode 820 may operate as a ground electrode. The processor 120 may determine the user's home key touch by analyzing the sensing signal of the first sensor channel sensor-1.

As an embodiment, when the flexible electronic device 700 is in a reduced screen state, the second sensor channel sensor-2 may be positioned on the third region 830 (eg, a sensing electrode) of the bracket. Here, the first sensor channel (sensor-1) (eg, sensor channel (B)) is located closest to the rolling part 801 in the first side (eg, y-axis direction) with respect to the rolling part 801. can The second sensor channel sensor-2 (eg, sensor channel A) may be located on the second side (eg, -y-axis direction) with respect to the rolling part 801 . The third region 830 of the bracket may be the third region 356 of the bracket 350 of FIGS. 4 and 5A . The third area 830 of the bracket may be fixed irrespective of the screen expansion and reduction of the flexible display 310 . As an example, the third region 830 of the bracket may be formed to have substantially the same area as that of one sensor channel. As an example, the third region 830 of the bracket may have an area smaller than the area of one sensor channel.

As an example, when the third region 830 of the bracket is positioned so that the second sensor channel (sensor-2) overlaps, the third region 830 of the bracket is positioned so that the first sensor channel (sensor-1) is positioned. It may not invade the area. In addition, the third region 830 of the bracket may be positioned so as not to deviate from the region in which the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 is positioned. That is, when the third region 830 of the bracket has the maximum size, the position of the first sensor channel (sensor-1) even if the third region (830) of the bracket overlaps the second sensor channel (sensor-2) It may not invade the region where the sensor 4 is located, and may not deviate from the region in which the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 is located. As an embodiment, when the flexible electronic device 700 is in a screen reduction state, the second sub-electrode 812 of the first electrode 810 of the second sensor channel sensor-2 operates as a first sensing electrode, , the second sub-electrode 822 of the second electrode 820 may operate in a floating state, and the bracket 830 may operate as a second sensing electrode. Since the second sub-electrode 822 of the second electrode 820 is in a floating state, the second sub-electrode 812 of the first electrode 810 is affected by the bracket 830 disposed below.

As an example, when the flexible display 310 moves according to a screen reduction or expansion, it overlaps the second sensor channel sensor-2, the third sensor channel sensor-3, and the fourth sensor channel sensor-4. The area to be used changes, and the capacitance changes according to the changed overlapping area. A numerical value of a change in capacitance according to a changing overlapping area may be described as a reference value in a lookup table. The lookup table in which the reference value is written may be stored in a memory (eg, the memory 130 of FIG. 1 ). The processor 120 analyzes the sensing signal of the second sensor channel sensor-2 so that the flexible display 310 is in a screen reduction (eg, slide-in, crawled) state or a screen enlargement (eg, slide-out, It can be determined that the state is open.

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is in a reduced screen state, the third sub-electrode 813 of the first electrode 810 of the third sensor channel sensor-3 operates in a floating state, and the second The third sub-electrode 823 of the electrode 820 may operate in a floating state.

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is in a screen reduction state, the fourth sub-electrode 814 of the first electrode 810 of the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 operates in a floating state, and the second The fourth sub-electrode 824 of the electrode 820 may operate in a floating state.

As an example, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance of the first sensor channel sensor-1. The processor 120 may sense the capacitance formed between the second sensor channel sensor-2 and the bracket 830 . In addition, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance of the third sensor channel (sensor-3) and the fourth sensor channel (sonsor-4). The processor 120 may compare the capacitances of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), and the fourth sensor channel (sonsor-4). have. The processor 120 compares the capacitance of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), and the fourth sensor channel (sonsor-4). Based on , the first sensor channel sensor-1 may be determined as a sensor channel to operate as a pressure sensor. In addition, the processor 120 compares the sensed capacitances of the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), and the fourth sensor channel (sonsor-4) with the reference values described in the lookup table. Thus, it is possible to determine the expanded state of the flexible display 310 .

As shown in FIG. 8B , when the flexible electronic device 700 is expanding the screen (only partly expanded state), the first sub-electrode 811 of the first electrode 810 and the second electrode 820 of the second electrode 820 are A first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed with one sub-electrode 821 . The first sub-electrode 811 of the first electrode 810 may operate in a floating state, and the first sub-electrode 821 of the second electrode 820 may operate in a floating state.

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is expanding the screen (only partly expanded state), the second sub-electrode 812 of the first electrode 810 and the second sub-electrode ( 822 , a second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed. The second sub-electrode 812 of the first electrode 810 may operate as a sensing electrode, and the second sub-electrode 822 of the second electrode 820 may operate as a ground electrode. The processor 120 may determine the user's home key touch by analyzing the sensing signal of the second sensor channel sensor-2.

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is expanding the screen (only a part of it is expanded), the third sensor channel sensor-3 may be positioned on the bracket 830 .

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is expanding the screen (only a partially expanded state), the third sub-electrode 813 of the first electrode 810 of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is the first It can act as a sensing electrode. In addition, the third sub-electrode 823 of the second electrode 820 may operate in a floating state, and the bracket 830 may operate as the second sensing electrode. Since the third sub-electrode 823 of the second electrode 820 is in a floating state, the third sub-electrode 813 of the first electrode 810 is affected by the bracket 830 disposed below.

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is expanding the screen (only a part of it is expanded), the second sub-electrode 812 of the first electrode 810 of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is in a floating state. , and the second sub-electrode 822 of the second electrode 820 may operate in a floating state.

As an example, when the screen of the flexible electronic device 700 is being expanded (only partially expanded), the fourth sub-electrode 814 of the first electrode 810 of the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 is in a floating state. , and the fourth sub-electrode 824 of the second electrode 820 may operate in a floating state.

As an example, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance of the first sensor channel sensor-1. Also, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance of the second sensor channel sensor-2. Also, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance formed between the third sensor channel sensor-3 and the bracket 830 . Also, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance of the fourth sensor channel sonsor-4. The processor 120 may compare the capacitances of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), and the fourth sensor channel (sonsor-4). have. The processor 120 compares the capacitance of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), and the fourth sensor channel (sonsor-4). Based on , the second sensor channel sensor-2 may be determined as a sensor channel to operate as a pressure sensor. The processor 120 may determine the expanded state of the flexible display 310 by comparing the sensed capacitance of the third sensor channel sensor-3 with a reference value described in the lookup table.

As shown in FIG. 8C , when the flexible electronic device 700 is in the screen extended state (fully expanded state), the first sub-electrode 811 of the first electrode 810 and the second electrode 820 of the second electrode 820 are A first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed with one sub-electrode 821 . The first sub-electrode 811 of the first electrode 810 may operate in a floating state, and the first sub-electrode 821 of the second electrode 820 may operate in a floating state. That is, the first sensor channel sensor-1 does not operate.

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is in the screen expanded state (fully expanded), the second sub-electrode 812 of the first electrode 810 of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is in a floating state. , and the second sub-electrode 822 of the second electrode 820 may operate in a floating state.

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is in the screen extended state (fully expanded state), the third sub-electrode 813 of the first electrode 810 and the third sub-electrode 813 of the second electrode 820 are 823), a third sensor channel (sensor-3) may be formed. The third sub-electrode 813 of the first electrode 810 may operate as a sensing electrode, and the third sub-electrode 823 of the second electrode 820 may operate as a ground electrode.

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is in the screen expanded state (fully expanded), the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 may be positioned on the bracket 830 .

As an example, when the flexible electronic device 700 is in the screen expanded state (fully expanded), the fourth sub-electrode 814 of the first electrode 810 of the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 is the first It may operate as a sensing electrode, the fourth sub-electrode 824 of the second electrode 820 may operate in a floating state, and the bracket 830 may operate as a second sensing electrode. Since the fourth sub-electrode 824 of the second electrode 820 is in a floating state, the fourth sub-electrode 814 of the first electrode 810 is affected by the lower bracket 830 .

As an example, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance of the first sensor channel sensor-1. Also, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance of the second sensor channel sensor-2. Also, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance of the third sensor channel sensor-3. Also, the processor 120 may sense the capacitance formed between the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 and the bracket 830 . The processor 120 may compare the capacitances of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), and the fourth sensor channel (sonsor-4). have. The processor 120 compares the capacitance of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), and the fourth sensor channel (sonsor-4). Based on , the third sensor channel sensor-2 may be determined as a sensor channel to operate as a pressure sensor. The processor 120 may determine the user's touch of the home key by analyzing the sensing signal of the third sensor channel sensor-3. As an example, the processor 120 may determine the expanded state of the flexible display 310 by comparing the sensed capacitance of the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 with a reference value described in a lookup table. It is a diagram 900 for explaining a method of operating the pressure sensor 800 of the flexible electronic device 700 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In FIG. 9 , sensing the extended state of the flexible display 310 when the pressure sensor 800 includes four sensor channels is illustrated as an example.

Referring to FIGS. 8A to 9 , in operation 910 , the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) performs a second sensor channel (sensor-2) and a third sensor channel (sensor-3) of the pressure sensor 800 . ) to obtain sensing values of the second sensor channel (sensor-2) and the third sensor channel (sensor-3).

In operation 920 , the processor 120 may compare the sensed value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 with the sensed value of the third sensing channel sensor-3. The processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3.

As a result of the determination in operation 920, when the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 (yes), in operation 930, the processor 120 performs the first sensing An operation of the channel sensor-1 may be activated, and the user's home key touch may be sensed using the first sensing channel sensor-1. That is, the first electrode of the first sensor channel sensor-1 operates as a sensing electrode, and the second electrode maintains the ground, so that the first sensing channel sensor-1 can be used as a pressure sensor.

As a result of the determination in operation 920, if the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is not greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 (no), in operation 940, the processor 120 performs the second An operation of the sensor channel sensor-2 may be activated, and the user's home key touch may be sensed using the second sensing channel sensor-2. That is, the second sensing channel sensor-2 may be used as a pressure sensor. As an embodiment, the second electrode of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second electrode of the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the second electrode of the third sensor channel (sonsor-3), and the fourth Each of the second electrodes of the sensor channel sensor - 4 may operate in a ground or floating state according to the expansion or contraction of the flexible display 310 . The second electrode of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second electrode of the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the second electrode of the third sensor channel (sonsor-3), and the fourth sensor channel (sensor-) In 4), the second electrode of the sensor channel to be used as the pressure sensor is maintained as the ground to sense the user's pressure from the outside.

In operation 950 , the processor 120 operates the fourth sensing channel sensor-4 to obtain a sensing value of the sensing channel sensor-4. The processor 120 may compare the sensed value of the third sensor channel (sensor-3) with the sensed value of the fourth sensing channel (sensor-4). The processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than the sensing value of the fourth sensing channel sensor-4.

As a result of the determination of operation 950 , when the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than the sensing value of the fourth sensing channel sensor-4 (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 960 . .

In operation 960 , the processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 .

As a result of the determination of operation 960, when the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 940. .

As a result of the determination of operation 960, if the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is not greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 (no), the processor 120 may perform operation 930 have.

Meanwhile, as a result of the determination of operation 950, if the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is not greater than the sensing value of the fourth sensing channel sensor-4 (no), the processor 120 performs operation 970 can do.

In operation 970 , the processor 120 may activate the operation of the third sensing channel sensor-3 and sense the user's home key touch using the third sensing channel sensor-3. That is, the third sensing channel sensor-3 may be used as a pressure sensor.

In operation 980 , the processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 is greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 .

As a result of the determination of operation 980 , when the sensing value of the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 is greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 970 . .

As a result of the determination of operation 980, if the sensing value of the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 is not greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 (no), the processor 120 may perform operation 940. have.

The processor 120 may determine the expanded state of the flexible display 310 by comparing the sensing values of the plurality of sensor channels disposed on the rear surface of the flexible display 310 . The processor 120 may select a sensor channel to operate as a pressure sensor (eg, a home key) from among a plurality of sensor channels based on the expanded state of the flexible display 310 . Through this, even when the screen of the flexible display 310 expands or contracts, the position of the pressure sensor (eg, home key) touched by the user is fixed while the screen expansion and contraction state of the flexible display 310 can be sensed.

10 is a diagram 1000 for explaining a method of operating the pressure sensor 800 of the flexible electronic device 700 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 10 illustrates, as an example, sensing the extended state of the flexible display (eg, the flexible display 310 of FIGS. 8A to 8C ) when the pressure sensor 800 includes four sensor channels.

8A to 8C and 10 , in operation 1010 , the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) transmits a second sensor channel of the pressure sensor (eg, the pressure sensor 800 of FIG. 7 ). -2) and the third sensor channel (sensor-3) may be operated to obtain sensing values of the second sensor channel (sensor-2) and the third sensor channel (sensor-3).

In operation 1020 , the processor 120 may compare the sensed value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 with the sensed value of the third sensing channel sensor-3. The processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3.

As a result of the determination of operation 1020, when the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 (yes), the processor 1200 may perform operation 1030 .

In operation 1030 , the processor 120 may activate the operation of the first sensing channel sensor-1 and sense the user's home key touch using the first sensing channel sensor-1.

As a result of the determination of operation 1020, if the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is not greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 (no), the processor 120 may perform operation 1040 have.

In operation 1040 , the processor 120 may activate the operation of the second sensor channel sensor-2 and sense the user's home key touch using the second sensing channel sensor-2.

In operation 1050 , the processor 120 operates the third sensing channel sensor-3 to obtain a sensing value of the sensing channel sensor-3. The processor 120 may compare the sensed value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 with the reference value described in the lookup table. The processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 is greater than the reference value.

As a result of the determination of operation 1050, when the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 is greater than the reference value (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 1060 .

In operation 1060 , the processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 .

As a result of the determination of operation 1060, if the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 1040 . .

As a result of the determination of operation 1060, if the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is not greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 (no), the processor 120 may perform operation 1030 have.

Meanwhile, as a result of the determination of operation 1050, if the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is not greater than the reference value (no), the processor 120 may perform operation 1070 .

In operation 1070 , the processor 120 may activate the operation of the third sensing channel sensor-3 and sense the user's home key touch using the third sensing channel sensor-3.

In operation 1080 , the processor 120 may sense the start of the screen reduction of the flexible display 310 . As an embodiment, when there is no separate sensor channel for detecting only the expansion of the flexible display 310, the screen is reduced (eg, slide close) in the full roll-up state of the flexible display 310 It is also possible to use a separate sensor to detect it.

By comparing the sensed values of a plurality of sensor channels disposed on the rear surface of the flexible display 310 , the expanded state of the flexible display 310 may be determined, and a sensor channel to operate as a pressure sensor (eg, a home key) may be selected. Through this, even when the screen of the flexible display 310 expands or contracts, the position of the pressure sensor (eg, home key) touched by the user is fixed while the screen expansion and contraction state of the flexible display 310 can be sensed.

11A to 11C are diagrams illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of the flexible electronic device 1100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. 12 is a view 1200 for explaining a method of operating a pressure sensor of the flexible electronic device 1100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 12, the flexible electronic device 1100 operates an activated sensor channel in a time division manner when only a pressure sensor is included without a separate sensor for detecting the expanded state of the flexible display 310 The extended area can be sensed.

As an example, the pressure sensor (eg, the pressure sensor 800 of FIG. 7 ) includes the first electrode 1110 , the second electrode 1120 , and the bracket 1130 (eg, the bracket 350 of FIGS. 4 and 5A ). ) may be included. The first electrode 1110 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes 1111 , 1112 , and 1113 . The second electrode 1120 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes 1121 , 1122 , and 1123 .

As an example, the bracket 1130 may be fixed regardless of the screen expansion or reduction of the screen of the flexible display 310 .

As an example, the first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed of the first sub-electrode 1111 of the first electrode 1110 and the first sub-electrode 1121 of the second electrode 1120 . A second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed by the second sub-electrode 1112 of the first electrode 1110 and the second sub-electrode 1122 of the second electrode 1120 . A third sensor channel sensor-3 may be formed by the third sub-electrode 1113 of the first electrode 1110 and the third sub-electrode 1123 of the second electrode 1120 .

In operation 1210 , the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) uses a pressure sensor (eg, the second sensor channel (sensor-2) and the third sensor channel (sensor-3) of the pressure sensor 800 of FIG. 7 ) may be operated to obtain sensing values of the second sensor channel (sensor-2) and the third sensor channel (sensor-3).

In operation 1220 , the processor 120 may compare the sensed value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 and the sensed value of the third sensing channel sensor-3. The processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3.

As a result of the determination of operation 1220, when the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 1230. .

In operation 1230 , the processor 120 may activate the operation of the first sensing channel sensor-1.

As a result of the determination of operation 1220, if the sensing value of the second sensor channel sensor-2 is not greater than the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 (no), the processor 120 performs operation 1240). can

In operation 1240 , the processor 120 may activate the operation of the second sensor channel sensor-2.

In operation 1250 , the processor 120 may operate the third sensing channel sensor-3 to obtain a sensing value of the sensing channel sensor-3 . The processor 120 may compare the sensed value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 with the reference value described in the lookup table. The processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 is greater than the reference value.

As a result of the determination in operation 1250 , when the sensing value of the third sensing channel sensor-3 is greater than the reference value (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 1260 .

In operation 1260 , the processor 120 may determine whether the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 .

As a result of the determination of operation 1260, when the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 1240. .

As a result of the determination of operation 1260, if the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is not greater than the sensing value of the second sensing channel sensor-2 (no), the processor 120 may perform operation 1230 have.

Meanwhile, as a result of the determination of operation 1250 , when the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is not greater than the reference value (no), the processor 120 may perform operation 1270 .

In operation 1270 , the processor 120 may activate the operation of the third sensing channel sensor-3.

In operation 1280 , the processor 120 may determine whether a sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 is greater than a reference value.

As a result of the determination of operation 1280, when the reference value is greater than the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 (yes), the processor 120 may perform operation 1270 .

As a result of the determination of operation 1280, if the reference value is not greater than the sensing value of the third sensor channel sensor-3 (no), the processor 120 may perform operation 1240 .

In operation 1280, the processor 120 floats the second electrode of the third sensor channel sensor-3 (eg, the third sub-electrode 1123 of the second electrode 1120) with the ground GND according to time. By changing the state (eg, time division driving), the extended state of the flexible display 310 may be sensed.

In this way, by comparing the sensing values of a plurality of sensor channels disposed on the rear surface of the flexible display 310 , the expansion state of the flexible display 310 is determined, and a sensor channel to operate as a pressure sensor (eg, home key) is selected. can Through this, even when the screen of the flexible display 310 expands or contracts, the position of the pressure sensor (eg, home key) touched by the user is fixed while the screen expansion and contraction state of the flexible display 310 can be sensed.

13 is a diagram illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of the flexible electronic device 1300 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 13 , the flexible electronic device 1300 uses a plurality of sensor channels (eg, sensor-1, sensor-2, and sensor-3) of a pressure sensor (eg, the pressure sensor 800 of FIG. 7 ). An extended state of the flexible display 310 may be sensed.

As an example, the pressure sensor (eg, the pressure sensor 800 of FIG. 7 ) may include a first electrode 1310 , a second electrode 1320 , and a bracket 1330 . The first electrode 1310 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes 1311 , 1312 , and 1313 . The second electrode 13120 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes 1321 , 1322 , and 1323 .

As an example, the bracket 1330 may be fixed regardless of the screen expansion or reduction of the screen of the flexible display 310 .

As an example, the first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed of the first sub-electrode 1311 of the first electrode 1310 and the first sub-electrode 1321 of the second electrode 1320 . A second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed by the second sub-electrode 1312 of the first electrode 1310 and the second sub-electrode 1322 of the second electrode 1320 . A third sensor channel sensor-3 may be formed by the third sub-electrode 1313 of the first electrode 1310 and the third sub-electrode 1323 of the second electrode 1320 .

As an embodiment, the first sub-electrode 1311 of the first electrode 1310 serving as the first sensing electrode of the first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed of one electrode. The first sub-electrode 1321 of the second electrode 1320 serving as the second sensing electrode of the first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed of a plurality of electrodes. The first sub-electrode 1321 of the second electrode 1320 may be formed of not only two electrodes, but also three or four electrodes.

As an embodiment, the second sub-electrode 1312 of the first electrode 1310 serving as the first sensing electrode of the second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed of one electrode. The second sub-electrode 1322 of the second electrode 1320 serving as the second sensing electrode of the second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed of a plurality of electrodes. The second sub-electrode 1322 of the second electrode 1320 may be formed of not only two electrodes, but also three or four electrodes.

As an embodiment, the second sub-electrode 1313 of the first electrode 1310 serving as the first sensing electrode of the third sensor channel sensor-3 may be formed of one electrode. The third sub-electrode 1323 of the second electrode 1320 serving as the second sensing electrode of the second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed of a plurality of electrodes. The third sub-electrode 1323 of the second electrode 1320 may be formed of not only two electrodes, but also three or four electrodes.

In this way, pressure can be sensitively sensed by disposing a plurality of second sensing electrodes on one first sensing electrode.

14 and 15 are diagrams illustrating that the flexible electronic device 1400 expands in a short axis direction (eg, an x-axis direction) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 15 is a cross-section of the electronic device 1400 taken along line B-B of FIG. 14 .

14 and 15 , in the flexible electronic device 1400 (eg, the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1 ) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexible display 310 moves in a first direction (eg, front). (eg, in the z-axis direction). The flexible display 310 may be disposed in the inner space of the housing 390 . In the flexible display 310 , the size to which the flexible display 310 is exposed to the outside is changed by rotation of the driving member 312 , so that the size of the screen of the flexible electronic device 1400 may be expanded or reduced. Here, the flexible display 310 may be an OLED display or an LCD display.

According to one embodiment, the housing 390 includes a first housing (eg, the first housing 220 (eg, the main housing) of FIGS. 2A and 2B ) and a second housing (eg, the second housing 230 ) (eg, the main housing). : slide housing)). The first housing may be formed to be fixed, and the second housing may be formed to be movable in a sliding manner. For example, the second housing (eg, the second housing 230 ) may slide in a first direction (eg, the x-axis direction) in the first housing (eg, the first housing 220 of FIGS. 2A and 2B ). can be formed to Also, the second housing (eg, the second housing 230 ) may be formed to be slidable in a second direction (eg, the -x-axis direction) opposite to the first direction (eg, the x-axis direction).

According to an embodiment, the flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure includes a first housing (eg, a main housing), a second housing (eg, a first slide housing), and a third housing (eg, a second housing). slide housing) and can be expanded and contracted in both directions (eg, the x-axis direction and the -x-axis direction). When the screen of the flexible electronic device is expanded or reduced, the first housing may be fixed, and the second housing and the third housing may slide. For example, when the screen of the flexible electronic device is expanded, the second housing may slide in a first direction (eg, an x-axis direction), and the third housing may slide in a second direction (eg, a -x-axis direction). For example, when the screen of the flexible electronic device is reduced, the second housing may slide in the second direction (eg, the -x-axis direction), and the third housing may slide in the first direction (eg, the x-axis direction). For example, when the flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure expands and reduces the screen in both directions (eg, the x-axis direction and the -x-axis direction), both directions (eg, the x-axis direction and the -x direction) A plurality of sensors for sensing screen expansion and screen reduction in the axial direction) may be included. According to an embodiment, when the second housing (eg, the second housing 392 of FIGS. 2A and 2B ) of the flexible electronic device 1400 slides in the first direction (eg, the x-axis direction), the flexible display ( 310) may be extended. When the flexible display 310 is expanded, the flexible electronic device 1400 may be in a first state (eg, a screen extended state). The flexible electronic device 1400 may display an extended screen in a first state (eg, a screen extended state).

According to an embodiment, when the second housing (eg, the second housing 392 of FIGS. 2A and 2B ) of the flexible electronic device 1400 slides in the second direction (eg, the -x-axis direction), the flexible display 310 may be reduced. When the flexible display 310 is reduced, the flexible electronic device 1400 may enter a second state (eg, a screen reduced state). The flexible electronic device 1400 may display a reduced screen (eg, a fixed area, a first area) in the second state (eg, a reduced screen state).

According to an embodiment, the flexible electronic device 1400 may display not only the first state and the second state, but also a third state (eg, an intermediate state between a screen expansion and a screen reduction) (eg, a free-stop state, a screen size change state, an intermediate state between slide-in and slide-out).

The flexible electronic device 1400 may include at least one sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ) for sensing the first state, the second state, and the third state.

The flexible electronic device 1400 may sense whether it is in the first state, the second state, or the third state through the at least one sensor module 176 . That is, the flexible electronic device 1400 determines whether the flexible display 310 is in a slide-in state, in a slide-out state, or in a free-stop state (eg, a screen size change state (eg, a sliding state)) (eg, intermediate between a slide-in and a slide-out state). state) (eg, an intermediate state between screen expansion and screen reduction) can be sensed.

According to an embodiment, in the third state of the flexible electronic device 1400 , the slide-out does not proceed completely in the screen-reduced state of the flexible display 310 , and a part of the flexible display 310 is unfolded or the flexible display 310 . ) may include a state in which a part of it is unfolding (eg, a sliding state).

According to an embodiment, in the third state of the flexible display device 1400 , the slide-in does not proceed completely in the screen expansion state of the flexible display 310 , and a portion of the flexible display 310 slides in. It may include a state in which a portion of the flexible display 310 is being retracted (eg, a sliding state).

The sensing result of the at least one sensor module 176 may be transmitted to a processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ). The processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) determines whether the flexible display 310 is in a slide-in state, a slide-out state, or a free-stop state (eg, a screen size change state) based on the obtained sensing result (eg: sliding state) (eg, an intermediate state between slide-in and slide-out) (eg, an intermediate state between screen expansion and screen reduction) may be determined.

16 is a diagram illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor when the flexible electronic device 1600 is expanded in a short axis direction (eg, an x-axis direction) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 16 , the flexible display 310 of the flexible electronic device 1600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be enlarged or reduced in a short-axis direction (eg, an x-axis direction).

As an example, in a first state (eg, a screen reduced state) of the flexible display 310 , the first pressure sensor 1610 may be disposed to correspond to a fixed area of the flexible display 310 .

As an example, in a second state (eg, a screen extended state) of the flexible display 310 , the first pressure sensor 1610 may be disposed to correspond to a fixed area of the flexible display 310 .

As an example, since the position of the first pressure sensor 1610 is fixed, there may be no pressure sensor in the extended area of the flexible display 310 or a separate second pressure sensor 1620 may be disposed.

Although the flexible display 310 has been illustrated and described as being expanded or reduced in only one direction in FIGS. 14 and 16 , the flexible display 310 may also be expanded or contracted in both directions.

17A to 17C are diagrams illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; A cross section of a portion of the electronic device 1600 shown in FIG. 16 (eg, a cross section of the electronic device 1600 taken along line C-C) is shown in FIGS. 17A to 17C . 17A to 17C , a flexible electronic device (eg, the flexible electronic device 1600 of FIG. 16 ) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one pressure sensor 1610 . The pressure sensor 1610 may be fixed to the rear surface of the flexible display 310 . In order to sense a screen expansion or contraction state of the flexible display 310 , a capacitive sensor 1700 may be disposed in a partial area of the pressure sensor 1610 .

As an example, the capacitive sensor 1700 may be disposed where a portion of the pressure sensor 1610 is cut.

As an example, the capacitive sensor 1700 may be disposed between the plurality of pressure sensors 1610 .

As an example, the bracket 1730 is connected to the end of the flexible display 310 , the position of the bracket 1730 may be changed according to the expansion or contraction of the screen of the flexible display 310 . That is, the bracket 1730 may move together according to the expansion or contraction of the screen of the flexible display 310 .

As an example, the capacitive sensor 1700 may include a first electrode 1710 , a second electrode 1720 , and a bracket 1730 . The first electrode 1710 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes 1711 , 1712 , 1713 , and 1714 . The second electrode 1720 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes 1721 , 1722 , 1723 , and 1724 .

As an example, the first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed of the first sub-electrode 1711 of the first electrode 1710 and the first sub-electrode 1721 of the second electrode 1720 . A second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed by the second sub-electrode 1712 of the first electrode 1710 and the second sub-electrode 1722 of the second electrode 1720 . A third sensor channel sensor-3 may be formed by the third sub-electrode 1713 of the first electrode 1710 and the third sub-electrode 1723 of the second electrode 1720 . A fourth sensor channel sensor-4 may be formed by the fourth sub-electrode 1714 of the first electrode 1710 and the fourth sub-electrode 1724 of the second electrode 1720 .

In a state in which the pressure sensor 1610 is fixed to the rear surface of the flexible display 310, when the screen of the flexible display 310 is expanded or reduced, a first sensor channel (sensor-1), a second sensor channel (sensor-2), The third sensor channel (sensor-3), the fourth sensor channel (sensor-4), and the bracket 1730 may sequentially overlap. As an example, when the screen of the flexible display 310 is expanded, the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), and the fourth sensor channel ( sensor-4) may be sequentially overlapped with the bracket 1730. As an example, conversely, when the screen of the flexible display 310 is reduced, the fourth sensor channel (sensor-4), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), and the first sensor It may be sequentially overlapped with the bracket 1730 in the order of the channel (sensor-1).

When the screen of the flexible display 310 is expanded or reduced, the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) overlaps the first sensor channel sensor-1 and the second sensor channel according to the movement of the bracket 1730 . A change in capacitance among the sensor-2, the third sensor channel sensor-3, and the fourth sensor channel sensor-4 may be sensed. Processor 120 between the bracket 1730 and the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), the third sensor channel (sensor-3), the fourth sensor channel (sensor-4) Screen expansion and screen reduction of the flexible display 310 may be sensed based on the sensed value of the capacitance change.

18 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement of a pressure sensor when the flexible electronic device 1800 is expanded in a short axis direction (eg, an x-axis direction) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 18 , when the flexible electronic device 1800 is expanded in the short axis direction (eg, the x-axis direction), the pressure sensor 1610 is positioned in the fixed area, and a separate second pressure sensor is disposed in the extended area or , the pressure sensor may not be placed. As the screen of the flexible display 310 is enlarged, a floating area 1810 that cannot be detected by the pressure sensor 1610 may occur, but a separate second pressure sensor may be disposed in the expanded area to sense pressure. As an example, the area of the user's finger or the input means may be larger than the floating area 1810 . In this case, even if the floating area 1810 does not sense the pressure of the user's finger or the input means, the pressure may be sensed using at least one sensor disposed around the floating area 1810 . The processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) may sense the pressure based on a pressure signal from at least one sensor disposed around the floating area 1810 .

19A to 19C are diagrams illustrating an arrangement structure and operation of a capacitive sensor of a flexible electronic device 1900 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

19A to 19C , the capacitive sensor may include a first electrode 1910 and a second electrode 1930 . Here, the second electrode 1930 may be the third region 356 of the bracket 350 of FIGS. 4 and 5A .

The first electrode 1910 may be mounted on a separate substrate to be fixedly positioned regardless of the expansion or contraction of the screen of the flexible display 310 . The second electrode 1930 may be disposed on the rear surface of the extended area of the flexible display 310 . As an example, the second electrode 1930 is attached to the rear surface of the extended area of the flexible display 310, and the position of the second electrode 1930 may be changed according to the expansion or contraction of the screen of the flexible display 310. . That is, the second electrode 1930 may move together according to the expansion or contraction of the screen of the flexible display 310 .

As an example, the first electrode 1910 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes 1911 , 1712 , and 1713 . The second electrode 1930 may be formed as one electrode.

As an example, the first sensor channel sensor-1 may be formed of the first sub-electrode 1911 and the second electrode 1930 of the first electrode 1910 . A second sensor channel sensor-2 may be formed by the second sub-electrode 1912 and the second electrode 1930 of the first electrode 1910 . A third sensor channel sensor-3 may be formed by the third sub-electrode 1913 and the second electrode 1930 of the first electrode 1910 .

As an example, when the screen of the flexible display 310 is expanded or reduced while the second sensor 1930 is fixed to the rear surface of the extended area of the flexible display 310, the second electrode 1930 is moved Capacitances of the first sensor channel (sensor-1), the second sensor channel (sensor-2), and the third sensor channel (sensor-3) may be changed.

As an example, when the screen of the flexible display 310 is expanded or reduced, the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) overlaps the first sensor channel sensor-1 according to the movement of the second electrode 1930 . ), a change in the capacitance of the second sensor channel (sensor-2), and the third sensor channel (sensor-3) may be sensed. The processor 120 is configured to display the flexible display 310 based on the sensing value of the capacitance change of the first sensor channel sensor-1, the second sensor channel sensor-2, and the third sensor channel sensor-3. Screen expansion and screen reduction can be sensed.

As described above, the expanded state of the flexible display 310 may be determined by comparing the sensing values of the plurality of sensor channels disposed on the rear surface of the flexible display 310 .

20 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement of a pressure sensor 2010 of a flexible electronic device 2000 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 20 , the flexible electronic device 2000 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure has a flexible display 310 and a multi-bar structure supporting the flexible display 310 when the screen of the flexible display 310 is expanded or reduced. 320 , and a pressure sensor 2010 . The pressure sensor 2010 may be disposed between the flexible display 310 and the multi-bar structure 320 .

The screen of the flexible display 310 may be expanded or reduced by the rotation of the driving member 312 . The amount of pressure applied to each of the

regions

321 , 322 , 323 , 324 , and 325 of the multi-bar structure 320 . will change

Since the magnitude of the pressure applied to each of the

regions

321 , 322 , 323 , 324 , and 325 of the multi-bar structure 320 is different, the

regions

321 , 322 , 323 , 324 , and 325 of the multi-bar structure 320 . Pressures of different magnitudes may also be applied to the pressure sensor 2010 corresponding to .

As an example, the pressure sensor 2010 includes a first area 321 , a second area 322 , a third area 323 , a fourth area 324 , and a fifth area ( 324 ) of the multi-bar structure 320 . 325) can sense the pressure applied to each. A processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) includes a first region 321 , a second region 322 , a third region 323 , a fourth region 324 , and a second region 324 of the multi-bar structure 320 . A screen expansion or contraction state of the flexible display 310 may be sensed by analyzing a sensed value of pressure applied in each of the 5 regions 325 .

21 is a diagram illustrating a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; 22A to 22C are diagrams illustrating an operation of a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

21 to 22C , the flexible electronic device (eg, the flexible electronic device 2000 of FIG. 20 ) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure includes a flexible display 310 and a driving member (eg, the driving member of FIG. 20 ). 312 ), and a plurality of pressure sensors 2110 to 2170 . The plurality of pressure sensors 2110 to 2170 may be disposed on the rear surface of the flexible display 310 . The plurality of pressure sensors 2110 to 2170 may have a multi-bar structure (eg, the multi-bar structure 320 of FIG. 20 ) disposed between the flexible displays 310 . The multi-bar structure (eg, the multi-bar structure 320 of FIG. 20 ) may support the flexible display 310 when the screen of the flexible display 310 is expanded or reduced. The screen of the flexible display 310 may be expanded or reduced by rotation of the driving member (eg, the driving member 312 of FIG. 20 ). The positions of the plurality of pressure sensors 2110 to 2170 may be changed according to the expansion or contraction of the screen of the flexible display 310 .

The magnitude of the pressure applied to each

region

321 , 322 , 323 , 324 , and 325 of the multi-bar structure (eg, the multi-bar structure 320 of FIG. 20 ) varies, and accordingly, the plurality of pressure sensors 2110 to 2170) may be subjected to different pressures. For example, each of the plurality of pressure sensors 2110 to 2170 may operate as a sensor channel, and a sensing value (eg, a sensitivity value) of each sensor channel may be different. The processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) analyzes the sensing values (eg, sensitivity values) of the plurality of pressure sensors 2110 to 2170 to sense the screen expansion or contraction state of the flexible display 310 . have.

23 is a diagram illustrating a pressure sensor of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

Referring to FIG. 23 , a flexible electronic device 2300 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a flexible display 310 and a pressure sensor.

The flexible display 310 may include a flat area 2101 that is fixed in a reduced screen state and a rolling area 2102 that expands in a screen expanded state. The pressure sensor may be disposed on the rear surface of the flexible display 310 . The electrode structure of the first region corresponding to the flat region 2101 of the pressure sensor and the electrode structure of the second region corresponding to the rolling region 2102 may be formed differently.

A substrate 2110 may be disposed in the first region of the pressure sensor, and a plurality of sensing electrodes 2120 may be disposed on the substrate 2110 at regular intervals. A substrate 2110 may be disposed in the second region of the pressure sensor, and a plurality of sensing electrodes 2120 may be disposed on the substrate 2110 . Also, in the second region of the pressure sensor, an opening 2130 may be formed between the plurality of sensing electrodes 2120 in order to prevent the pressure sensor from being damaged when the flexible display 310 is rolled.

24 is a diagram illustrating a driving method when the screen of the flexible electronic device 2400 is expanded according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 24 , in the flexible electronic device 2400 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the screen of the flexible display may be expanded in a long axis direction (eg, a y-axis direction).

As an embodiment, the flexible electronic device 2400 may change from a first state (eg, a screen reduced state) to a second state (eg, a screen extended state) during an always-on display (AOD) operation. When the screen is extended during an always-on display (AOD) operation of the flexible electronic device 2400 , the display driver (eg, DDI) may detect the screen extension without waking up of the processor 120 . The display driver (eg, DDI) may generate and store both the first image data to be displayed in the first state (eg, the screen reduced state) and the second image data to be displayed in the second state (eg, the screen expanded state). . For example, the display driver (eg, DDI) may transmit first image data in a first state (eg, reduced screen state) to the flexible display to display an image according to the screen reduction. For example, the display driver (eg, DDI) may transmit the second image data in the second state (eg, the screen extended state) to the flexible display to display an image according to the screen expansion.

As an embodiment, the electronic device 2400 may display a screen 2231 (eg, an alarm display such as SNS, missed call, etc.) in an always-on display (AOD) operation state. The processor 120 converts the first image (①) to be displayed in the screen reduced state 2210 of the flexible display and the second image (②) to be displayed in the screen expanded state 2220 of the flexible display to a display driver (eg, DDI) can be transmitted to (2232). The at least one pressure sensor may sense a screen expansion or screen reduction state of the flexible display, and transmit a sensing result of the screen state to the display driver (eg, DDI) and/or the processor 120 .

The display driver (eg, DDI) receives from the processor 120 a first image (①) to be displayed in a reduced screen state 2210 of the flexible display and a second image to be displayed in a screen expanded state 2220 of the flexible display (②) can receive

As an example, the display driver (eg, DDI) may display the first image (①) to be displayed in the reduced screen state of the flexible display in the reduced screen state 2210 based on the sensing result of the screen state of the flexible display as an example. can be controlled to display 2233 .

As an example, the display driver (eg, DDI) may display the second image (②) to be displayed in the expanded screen state of the flexible display in the screen extended state 2220 based on the sensing result of the screen state of the flexible display as an example. can be controlled to display 2234 .

25 and 26 , in an edge region 2530 where the flexible display 2510 and the housing 2520 of the flexible electronic device 2500 contact each other according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexible display 2510 and the housing ( 2520) may have different heights, which may cause a step difference.

As an embodiment, in the flexible electronic device 2500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the edge area 2530 , the flexible display 2510 may not recognize a step caused by a difference in height between the flexible display 2510 and the housing 2520 . ) may be formed in a masking region invisible.

27 to 28B , in an edge region where the flexible display 2710 and the housing 2720 of the flexible electronic device 2700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure contact each other, the flexible display 2710 and the housing 2720 are The height may be substantially the same.

As an embodiment, the flexible electronic device 2700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure

sets masking regions

2812 and 2822 of the flexible display 2810 in an edge region (eg, an edge region 2530 of FIG. 25 ). can

As an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 28A , in the screen reduction state 2811 of the flexible display 2810 (eg, the flexible display 2710 of FIG. 27 ), masking according to the screen reduction of the flexible display 2810 Regions 2812 may display a black image. For example, the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) may include masking areas of a corner portion in contact with the housing (eg, the housing 2720 of FIG. 27 ) according to the screen reduction state 2811 of the flexible display 2810 . The display driver (eg, DDI) may be controlled so that 2812 is displayed as a black image. The display driver (eg, DDI) may control the operation of the flexible display 2810 so that the masking area 2812 displays a black image according to the control of the processor 120 .

As an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 28B , in the screen makeup state 2821 of the flexible display 2820 (eg, the flexible display 2710 of FIG. 27 ), masking according to the screen expansion of the flexible display 2820 Regions 282 may display a black image. For example, the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) may include masking areas of a corner portion in contact with the housing (eg, the housing 2720 of FIG. 27 ) according to the screen expansion state 2821 of the flexible display 2820 . The location of (2822) can be changed. The processor 120 is configured to display the masking areas 2822 of the corners in contact with the housing (eg, the housing 2720 of FIG. 27 ) according to the screen expansion state 2821 of the flexible display 2820 as a black image. (eg DDI) can be controlled. The display driver (eg, DDI) may control the operation of the flexible display 2820 so that the masking regions 2822 display a black image according to the control of the processor 120 .

29A and 29B , the flexible electronic device may enter a first state 2910 (eg, a reduced screen state) when the screen 2911 of the flexible display 310 is reduced. The flexible electronic device may enter a second state 2920 (eg, a screen enlarged state) when the screen of the flexible display 310 is enlarged 2921 .

In a first state 2910 (eg, a screen reduction state) of the flexible electronic device, at least a portion of the flexible display 310 may be rolled up to enter a screen reduction state 2911 . In order to reduce power consumption of the flexible electronic device, screen display driving may be turned off (eg, partially off) in a region (eg, a hidden region) that is not visually exposed to the outside among the entire region of the flexible display 310 . As the screen reduction 2911 state of the flexible display 310 becomes longer, the boundary between the main area in which the screen is displayed and the hidden area in which the screen is not displayed becomes more prominent. In order to prevent the boundary between the main area and the hidden area from being revealed, the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) may set the

gradation areas

2912 and 2922 at the boundary between the main area and the hidden area.

As an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 29A , the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) generates a gradation on the boundary between the main area and the hidden area according to the screen reduction state 2911 of the flexible display 301 . A region 2912 may be set. The processor 120 may control the display driver (eg, DDI) to display a gradation image in the gradation area 2912 so that burn-in does not occur at the boundary between the main area and the hidden area. The display driver (eg, DDI) may control the operation of the flexible display 310 to display a gradation image in the gradation area 2912 under the control of the processor 120 . Here, the gradation image may be an image in which the luminance is lowered step by step from the boundary between the main region and the hidden region toward the hidden region. As described above, in the first state 2910 (eg, a screen reduction state) of the flexible electronic device, an image whose luminance is lowered step by step toward the hidden region is displayed on the gradation region 2912 at the boundary between the main region and the hidden region. can prevent burn-in from occurring.

As an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 29B , the processor (eg, the processor 120 of FIG. 1 ) generates a gradation at the boundary between the main area and the hidden area according to the screen reduction state 2921 of the flexible display 301 . A region 2922 may be set. The processor 120 may control the display driver (eg, DDI) to display a gradation image in the gradation area 2912 so that burn-in does not occur at the boundary between the main area and the hidden area. The display driver (eg, DDI) may control the operation of the flexible display 310 to display a gradation image in the gradation area 2912 under the control of the processor 120 . Here, the gradation image may be an image in which the luminance is lowered step by step from the boundary between the main region and the hidden region toward the hidden region. As described above, in the second state 2920 (eg, screen expanded state) of the flexible electronic device, an image whose luminance decreases step by step toward the hidden area is displayed on the gradation area 2922, so that the boundary between the main area and the hidden area is can prevent burn-in from occurring.

The flexible electronic device shifts the

gradation areas

2912 and 2922 according to a first state 2910 (eg, a screen reduced state) and a second state 2920 (eg, a screen extended state) to be separated from the main region. A gradation image may be displayed at the boundary of the hidden area. Through this, by moving the

gradation areas

2912 and 2922 according to the rolling of the flexible display 310, it is possible to reduce the visibility of the boundary between the main area and the hidden area.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure (eg, the electronic device 200 of FIG. 2 , the electronic device 300 of FIG. 3A , the electronic device 600 of FIG. 6A , the electronic device 700 of FIG. 7 , and FIG. The electronic device 1100 of FIG. 11a , the electronic device 1300 of FIG. 13 , the electronic device 1400 of FIG. 14 , the electronic device 1600 of FIG. 16 , the electronic device 1800 of FIG. 18 , and the electronic device of FIG. 19A ( 1900), the electronic device 2000 of FIG. 20, the electronic device 2300 of FIG. 23, the electronic device 2400 of FIG. 24, the electronic device 2500 of FIG. 25, and the electronic device 2700 of FIG. 27) A flexible display (the flexible display 310 of FIGS. 3A, 4, 6A, 7, 8A, and 11A , the flexible display 2510 of FIG. 25 , the flexible display 2710 of FIG. 27 , the flexible display of FIG. 28A ) Display 2810 , flexible display 2820 of FIG. 28B ), a multi-bar structure (eg, the multi-bar structure 320 of FIGS. 3A and 3B ), a support plate (eg, the support plate 330 of FIGS. 3A and 3B ) )), a sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ), a bracket (eg, the bracket 350 of FIGS. 3A and 3B , the bracket 350 of FIG. 4 , the bracket 1130 of FIG. 11 , FIG. 13), a printed circuit board (eg, the printed circuit board 360 of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the printed circuit board 350 of FIG. 5B), and a contact member (eg, the contact member of FIG. 5B) 340)) may be included. The

flexible displays

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 , and 2820 have a first area that is arranged to be visible from the outside, extend from the first area, are accommodated inside in a first state, and are arranged to be visible from the outside in a second state It may include a second region that becomes The multi-bar structure (eg, the multi-bar structure 320 of FIGS. 3A and 3B and the multi-bar structure 320 of FIG. 4 ) is disposed on the rear surface of the

flexible display

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 and 2820 . The

flexible display

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 , and 2820 may be supported in the first state and the second state. The support plate (eg, the support plate 330 of FIGS. 3A and 3B and the support plate 330 of FIG. 4 ) supports at least a portion of the

flexible display

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 , 2820 , and has an opening It may include a hole 332 forming the. The sensor module (eg, the sensor module 176 of FIG. 1 ) may be disposed in the hole 332 of the support plate 330 . The brackets (eg, the bracket 350 of FIGS. 3A and 3B , the bracket 350 of FIG. 4 , the bracket 350 of FIG. 5A , the bracket 1130 of FIG. 11A , and the bracket 1330 of FIG. 13 ) are It may be disposed under the support plate 330 . The printed circuit board 360 may be disposed under the

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 . The contact member 340 includes the

brackets

350 , 1130 , 1330 and the printed circuit board (eg, the printed circuit board 360 of FIG. 3A , the printed circuit board 360 of FIG. 4 , the printed circuit board of FIG. 5B ). (360)) may be electrically connected. The sensor module 176 may include a pressure sensor for sensing pressure and/or a touch sensor for sensing a touch.

According to an embodiment, the

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 may be fixedly disposed regardless of the expansion or contraction of the

flexible display

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 , and 2820 .

According to an embodiment, the

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 are a first region formed of a metal material (a first region 352 of FIG. 5A , a second region 354 of FIG. 5A made of an insulating material). , and the third region 356 of FIG. 5A formed of a conductive metal material). The second region 354 may be disposed between the first region 352 and the third region 356 to insulate the first region 352 and the third region 356 .

According to an embodiment, the

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 include a first region 352 and a second region 354 formed of an insulating material, and a third region 356 formed of a conductive metal material. may include The second region 354 may be disposed between the first region 352 and the third region 356 to insulate the first region 352 and the third region 356 .

According to an embodiment, the third region 356 may be located in a region corresponding to the hole 332 of the support plate 330 in a vertical direction.

According to an embodiment, the third region 356 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 360 through the contact member 340 .

According to an embodiment, the

flexible displays

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 , and 2820 may slide in a first direction to expand the screen, and slide in a second direction opposite to the first direction to reduce the screen. have.

According to an embodiment, a third state between the first state and the second state may be included. The first state may include a screen reduction state of the

flexible displays

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 , and 2820 . The second state may include a screen enlargement state of the

flexible displays

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 , and 2820 . The third state may include a free-stop state of the

flexible display

310 , 2510 , 2710 , 2810 , and 2820 .

According to an embodiment, the sensor module 176 may include a plurality of pressure sensors. In the first state, a first pressure sensor among the plurality of pressure sensors may be driven. In the second state, a second pressure sensor among the plurality of pressure sensors may be driven.

According to an embodiment, the position of the first pressure sensor in the first state may be the same as the position of the second pressure sensor in the second state.

According to an embodiment, the sensor module 176 may include at least one pressure sensor. The at least one pressure sensor may include a first electrode (eg, the first electrode 810 of FIG. 8A ) and a second electrode (eg, the second electrode 820 of FIG. 8A ). The

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 may be disposed under the second electrode 820 . The first electrode 810 and the second electrode 820 may be moved according to the first state or the second state. The first state or the second state may be sensed based on the capacitance formed between the first electrode 810 and the

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 .

According to an embodiment, the first electrode 810 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes (eg, a plurality of

sub-electrodes

811 , 812 , 813 , and 814 of FIG. 8A ). The second electrode 820 may include a plurality of sub-electrodes (eg, the plurality of

sub-electrodes

821 , 822 , 823 , and 824 of FIG. 8A ). As many sensor channels as the number of

sub-electrodes

811, 812, 813, and 814 constituting the first electrode 810 and

sub-electrodes

821, 822, 823, and 824 constituting the second electrode 820 are provided. can be formed. A touch pressure may be sensed using the sensor channels.

According to an embodiment, in the first state, the second electrode 820 of a first sensor channel among the sensor channels may operate as a ground. The second electrode 820 of a second sensor channel among the sensor channels may operate in a floating state. The first state may be sensed using the first electrode 810 of the second sensor channel and the

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 .

According to an embodiment, the first sensor channel among the sensor channels is the

electronic device

200, 300, 600, 700, 1100, 1300, 1400, 1600, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2200, 2300, 2500, 2700 of the electronic device. It can be operated as a home key.

According to an embodiment, among the sensor channels, the second electrode 820 of the third sensor channel and the second electrode 820 of the fourth sensor channel may operate in a floating state.

According to an embodiment, in the second state, the second electrode 820 of the first sensor channel and the second electrode 820 of the second sensor channel among the sensor channels may operate in a floating state. The second electrode 820 of a third sensor channel among the sensor channels may operate as a ground. The second electrode 820 of a fourth sensor channel among the sensor channels may operate in a floating state. The second state may be sensed using the first electrode 810 of the fourth sensor channel and the

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 .

According to an embodiment, the third sensor channel among the sensor channels is a flexible

electronic device

200, 300, 600, 700, 1100, 1300, 1400, 1600, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2200, 2300, 2500, 2700. ) as the home key.

According to an embodiment, in the third state, the second electrode 820 of the first sensor channel among the sensor channels may operate in a floating state. A second electrode 820 of a second sensor channel among the sensor channels may operate as a ground. The second electrode 820 of the third sensor channel among the sensor channels may operate in a floating state. The third state may be sensed using the first electrode 810 of the third sensor channel and the

brackets

350 , 1130 , and 1330 .

According to an embodiment, the second sensor channel among the sensor channels is the

electronic device

200, 300, 600, 700, 1100, 1300, 1400, 1600, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2200, 2300, 2500, 2700 of the electronic device. It can be operated as the home key.

According to an embodiment, the hole 332 may be formed in a square shape, a circle shape, a closed curve shape, a square shape with one side open, a semicircular shape with one side open, and a curved shape with one side open.

Claims

In an electronic device,

A flexible display comprising: a flexible display comprising: a first area arranged to be visible from the outside; and a second area extending from the first area and accommodated therein in a first state, and arranged to be visible from the outside in a second state;

a multi-bar structure disposed on a rear surface of the flexible display to support the flexible display in the first state and the second state;

a support plate supporting at least a portion of the flexible display and including a hole forming an opening;

a sensor module disposed in the hole of the support plate;

a bracket disposed under the support plate;

a printed circuit board disposed under the bracket; and

and a contact member electrically connecting the bracket and the printed circuit board.

The sensor module includes a pressure sensor for sensing pressure and/or a touch sensor for sensing a touch,

electronic device.
According to claim 1,

The bracket is fixedly disposed regardless of expansion or contraction of the flexible display,

electronic device.
3. The method of claim 2,

The bracket is

A first region formed of a metal material, a second region formed of an insulating material, and a third region formed of a conductive metal material,

the second region is disposed between the first region and the third region to insulate the first region and the third region;

electronic device.
3. The method of claim 2,

The bracket is

A first region and a second region formed of an insulating material, and a third region formed of a conductive metal material,

the second region is disposed between the first region and the third region to insulate the first region and the third region;

electronic device.
5. The method according to claim 3 or 4,

The third region is located in a region corresponding to the hole of the support plate in a vertical direction,

electronic device.
5. The method according to claim 3 or 4,

the third region is electrically connected to the printed circuit board through the contact member;

electronic device.
According to claim 1,

The flexible display slides in a first direction to expand the screen, and slides in a second direction opposite to the first direction to reduce the screen,

electronic device.
8. The method of claim 7,

a third state between the first state and the second state;

The first state includes a screen reduction state of the flexible display,

The second state includes a screen enlarged state of the flexible display,

The third state includes a free-stop state of the flexible display,

electronic device.
9. The method of claim 8,

The sensor module includes a plurality of pressure sensors,

driving a first pressure sensor among the plurality of pressure sensors in the first state,

driving a second pressure sensor among the plurality of pressure sensors in the second state,

electronic device.
10. The method of claim 9,

The position of the first pressure sensor in the first state and the position of the second pressure sensor in the second state are formed to be the same,

electronic device.
9. The method of claim 8,

The sensor module comprises at least one pressure sensor,

the at least one pressure sensor comprises a first electrode and a second electrode,

The bracket is disposed under the second electrode,

The first electrode and the second electrode are moved according to the first state or the second state,

Sensing the first state or the second state based on the capacitance formed between the first electrode and the bracket,

electronic device.
12. The method of claim 11,

The first electrode includes a plurality of sub-electrodes,

The second electrode includes a plurality of sub-electrodes,

Sensor channels are formed as many as the number of sub-electrodes constituting the first electrode and sub-electrodes constituting the second electrode;

Sensing the touch pressure using the sensor channels,

electronic device.
13. The method of claim 12,

In the first state, a second electrode of a first sensor channel among the sensor channels operates as a ground,

A second electrode of a second sensor channel among the sensor channels operates in a floating state, and sensing the first state using the first electrode and the bracket of the second sensor channel,

electronic device.
13. The method of claim 12,

In the second state, the second electrode of the first sensor channel and the second electrode of the second sensor channel among the sensor channels operate in a floating state;

A second electrode of a third sensor channel among the sensor channels operates as a ground,

The second electrode of the fourth sensor channel among the sensor channels operates in a floating state,

Sensing the second state using the first electrode and the bracket of the fourth sensor channel,

electronic device.
13. The method of claim 12,

In the third state, the second electrode of the first sensor channel among the sensor channels operates in a floating state,

A second electrode of a second sensor channel among the sensor channels operates as a ground,

A second electrode of a third sensor channel among the sensor channels operates in a floating state, and sensing the third state using the first electrode and the bracket of the third sensor channel,

electronic device.