WO2024039201A1

WO2024039201A1 - Electronic device comprising display protection member

Info

Publication number: WO2024039201A1
Application number: PCT/KR2023/012206
Authority: WO
Inventors: 임성환; 오승택; 조현문
Original assignee: 삼성전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2022-08-17
Filing date: 2023-08-17
Publication date: 2024-02-22

Abstract

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention comprises a flexible display, wherein the electronic device comprises a flexible window that comprises a glass layer, is arranged in a first direction, which is a direction in which an image is displayed on the flexible display, with respect to the flexible display, to protect the flexible display, and comprises a bending portion that is bent or unbent based on a bending axis, wherein the bending portion comprises a first region in which a first pattern is engraved on surfaces of the glass layer at first intervals, and second regions in which a second pattern is engraved on the surfaces of the glass layer at second intervals, wherein the first interval of the first pattern may be wider than the second interval of the second pattern.

Description

Electronic device including display protection member

Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to electronic devices, and more particularly, to electronic devices including a display protection member.

Electronic devices require a small profile for portability and a large display area to provide a lot of information to users. In order to achieve both the small profile of electronic devices and the large display area, various form factors such as rollable, slideable, or foldable have emerged, breaking away from the existing rectangular bar-shaped form factor. there is. Electronic devices with a form factor such as a foldable require a flexible display that can be bent.

A display of an electronic device may include a protective member, such as a window, that protects the panel layer by preventing foreign substances from entering from the top of the panel layer. Flexible displays used in electronic devices of form factors such as rollable, slideable, or foldable require a flexible display window that can be bent or folded together with the display panel. Flexible display windows may include flexible materials such as transparent polyimide or ultra-thin glass. Flexible windows are flexible and can be applied to flexible displays, but they may be deformed or damaged when an external force is applied to the display.

If the thickness of the display window is increased to prevent damage to the flexible display window, the flexibility and flexibility of the flexible display window may be reduced. To solve this problem, an embossed or engraved pattern that helps bending may be applied to the bending area of the flexible display window. When a positive or negative pattern is formed, high stress is applied to the center of the area where the bending of the flexible window occurs based on the force axis, and low stress is applied to the peripheral area, resulting in stress concentration. The stress concentration may cause excessive plastic deformation of the OCR (optically clear resin) or OCA (optically clear adhesive) material that attaches a member such as a protective film to the surface of the flexible display window, thereby reducing the adhesive strength of the OCR or OCA.

Various embodiments of the present invention can provide a display protection member with reduced stress concentration at a bending portion and an electronic device including the same.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention is an electronic device including a flexible display, which includes a glass layer and is disposed in a first direction, which is the direction in which the flexible display displays an image, with respect to the flexible display. It protects and includes a flexible window including a bent portion that is bent and unbended about a bending axis, wherein the bent portion has a first region and a second pattern in which the first pattern is engraved on the surface of the glass layer at a first interval. The second interval may include a second area engraved on the surface of the glass layer, and the first interval of the first pattern may be wider than the second interval of the second pattern.

In various embodiments, the bending rigidity of the first region about the bending axis may be higher than the bending rigidity of the second region about the bending axis.

In various embodiments, the flexible window may include a protective film positioned in the first direction with respect to the glass layer and an adhesive layer disposed between the protective film and the flexible window to adhere the protective film and the glass layer to each other. You can.

In various embodiments, the adhesive layer may include at least one of an optically clear resin or an optically clear adhesive.

In various embodiments, the width of the first pattern may be narrower than the width of the second pattern.

In various embodiments, the first region may be disposed in a central portion of the bent portion with respect to the bending axis, and the second region may be disposed in a peripheral portion of the first region with respect to the bending axis.

In various embodiments, the first pattern and the second pattern may include straight slits arranged parallel to the bending axis.

In various embodiments, the first pattern and the second pattern may include a wave shape or a diamond shape.

In various embodiments, the flexible display may be a rollable display in which one end is wound and unwound about a bobbin. The bent portion is located in an area of the rollable display that is wound and unwound with respect to the bobbin, and the second area may be wound inside the first area.

In various embodiments, the flexible window may be disposed at a periphery of the bent portion with respect to the bending axis, and may include a second bent portion that bends and unbends in a direction opposite to the bending and unbending direction of the bent portion. The second bent portion includes a third region where a third pattern is formed and a fourth region where a fourth pattern is formed, and the bending rigidity of the third region may be higher than the bending rigidity of the fourth region.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention is an electronic device including a flexible display, including a glass layer and disposed in a first direction, which is the direction in which the flexible display displays an image, to protect the flexible display, and bending. It includes a flexible window including a bent portion that bends and unbends around an axis, wherein the bent portion includes a first region in which a first pattern is embossed on a surface of the flexible window and a second pattern in which a second pattern is embossed on the surface of the flexible window. It includes two regions, and the first pattern may have narrower spacing than the second pattern.

In various embodiments, the width of the first pattern may be wider than the width of the second pattern.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention is an electronic device including a flexible display, which includes a glass layer and is disposed in a first direction, which is the direction in which the flexible display displays an image, to protect the flexible display and to bend the flexible display. It includes a flexible window including a bent portion that is bent and unbended about an axis, wherein the bent portion includes a pattern embossed or engraved on a surface of the glass layer, and the spacing of the patterns is determined by the bending portion relative to the bending axis. The spacing may change gradually from the periphery to the center.

The bending rigidity of the bent portion may gradually increase from the periphery of the bent portion to the center with respect to the bending axis.

According to various embodiments disclosed in this document, the bent portion of the flexible window includes first and second regions in which different engraved or embossed patterns are formed, thereby reducing the phenomenon of stress being concentrated in a specific area of the bent portion.

In relation to the description of the drawings, identical or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment, according to various embodiments.

2A to 2F illustrate a portable electronic device having an in-folding housing structure, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a plan view illustrating a flexible display of a flexible electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 3b is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to various embodiments.

Figure 3C is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to various embodiments.

Figure 4a is a cross-sectional view showing a bent state of a flexible window according to various embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 4b is a cross-sectional view showing a bent state of a flexible window according to a comparative example.

5A to 5C are enlarged plan views showing a first pattern and a second pattern of a flexible window according to various embodiments.

FIG. 6A is an enlarged plan view showing a bent portion of a flexible window according to various embodiments.

Figure 6b is a cross-sectional view showing a bent portion of a flexible window according to various embodiments.

FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram showing a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments.

FIG. 7B is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of a flexible window of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments.

FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram showing a side of a flexible display according to various embodiments.

Figure 8b is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to various embodiments.

Figure 8C is an enlarged plan view showing a flexible display according to various embodiments.

Figure 9A is a plan view showing a flexible display according to various embodiments.

Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display according to various embodiments.

Figure 9C is a side view showing a flexible display according to various embodiments.

10A and 10B are plan views showing flexible displays according to various embodiments.

11 is an enlarged view showing a method of processing a glass layer according to various embodiments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 through the server 108 connected to the second network 199. Each of the external

electronic devices

102 or 104 may be of the same or different type as the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed in the electronic device 101 may be executed in one or more of the external

electronic devices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

According to various embodiments, a portable electronic device (eg, electronic device 101 of FIG. 1) may have a foldable housing that is divided into two housings around a folding axis. A first portion of the display (eg, a flexible display) may be disposed in the first housing, and a second portion of the display may be disposed in the second housing. The foldable housing may be implemented in an in-folding manner in which the first part and the second part face each other when the portable electronic device is folded. Alternatively, the foldable housing may be implemented in an out folding manner, with the first and second parts facing opposite to each other when the portable electronic device is folded. The side on which the first and second parts of the display are disposed is the front of the portable electronic device, the opposite side is the back of the portable electronic device, and the side surrounding the space between the front and the back is the side of the portable electronic device. can be defined.

According to embodiments mentioned in this document, when the display of a portable electronic device is folded, an example is an in-folding case in which the first portion of the display in the first housing is disposed to face the second portion of the display in the second housing. Although shown and described as an example, when the display is folded according to one embodiment, the first portion of the display in the first housing 210 is arranged in an out-folding direction opposite to the second portion of the display in the second housing. The same can be applied in the case of . Additionally, embodiments may also be applied to multi-foldable electronic devices in which in-folding and in-folding are combined, in-folding and out-folding are combined, and out-folding and out-folding are combined.

2A to 2F illustrate a portable electronic device 200 having an in-folding housing structure, according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIGS. 2A and 2B show the front of a foldable portable electronic device (hereinafter simply referred to as an electronic device) according to various embodiments in an unfolded, flat or open state, and FIG. 2C shows the front of a foldable portable electronic device (hereinafter simply referred to as an electronic device) in a folded state. or closed), Figure 2D shows the rear in the unfolded state, and Figure 2E shows the rear in a partially folded state (in other words, a partially unfolded state, or a fully folded state and a fully folded state). The front view is shown in an intermediate state (freestop state) between the unfolded state, and FIG. 2F is an exploded perspective view of the electronic device.

2A to 2F, the portable electronic device 200 (e.g., the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1) has a first housing 210, a second housing 220, and a first housing 210. 2A hinge assembly 240 connecting the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 so that the housing 220 is rotatable, and a flexible disposed in the space formed by the

foldable housings

210 and 220. It may include a flexible or foldable display 299, and a sensor module (eg, sensor module 176 in FIG. 1).

Display 299 may be disposed from first housing 210 across hinge assembly 240 to second housing 220 . The display 299 includes a first display area 211 arranged in the inner space of the first housing 210 with respect to the folding axis A, and a second display area 221 arranged in the inner space of the second housing 220. It can be divided into: A sensor module (eg, illuminance sensor) may be disposed below the sensor area (or light transmission area) 242a of the first display area 211 when viewed from the front. The location and/or size of the sensor area 242a in the first display area 211 may be determined by the location and/or size of the illuminance sensor disposed below it. For example, the size (eg, diameter) of the sensor area 242a may be determined based on the field of view (FOV) of the illuminance sensor. In one embodiment, the sensor area 242a may be configured to have a lower pixel density and/or a lower wiring density than its surroundings in order to improve light transmittance. In some embodiments, the display 299 may include a protective layer 298 that includes a transparent material and protects the panel layer from external foreign substances and impacts.

The hinge assembly 240 allows the two

display areas

211 and 221 to be connected to each other when the portable electronic device 200 switches from an unfolded state (e.g., the state in FIG. 2A) to a folded state (e.g., the state in FIG. 2C). It can be implemented in an in-folding manner so that they face each other. For example, when the electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state, the two

display areas

211 and 221 may face substantially the same direction. As the state is changed from the unfolded state to the folded state, the two

display areas

211 and 221 may be rotated to face each other. The hinge assembly 240 may be configured to resist rotation of the

foldable housings

210 and 220. When an external force exceeding the resistance is applied to the

foldable housings

210 and 220, the

foldable housings

210 and 220 may rotate.

Based on the angle between the two

display areas

211 and 221, the state of the electronic device 200 may be defined. For example, the state of the electronic device 200 may be defined as an unfolded, flat or open state when the angle between the two

display areas

211 and 221 is about 180 degrees. When the angle between the two

display areas

211 and 221 is between about 0 degrees and 10 degrees, the state of the portable electronic device 200 may be defined as a folded or closed state. When the two

display areas

211 and 221 form an angle that is larger than the angle in the folded state and smaller than the angle in the unfolded state (e.g., between about 10 degrees and 179 degrees), the portable electronic device 200 The state may be defined as an intermediate state (in other words, a partially folded or partially unfolded state) as shown in FIG. 2E.

Based on the state of the portable electronic device 200, an active area on the display 299 in which visual information (eg, text, image, or icon) will be displayed may be determined. For example, when the electronic device 200 is in an intermediate state, the active area may be determined as the first display area 211 or the second display area 221. Among the first display area 211 and the second display area 221, an area with relatively less movement may be determined as the active area. For example, when a user holds the housing of the electronic device 200 with one hand and opens another housing with a finger (e.g., thumb) of the same hand or the other hand, the electronic device 200 moves from the folded state to the intermediate state. The state is changed to and accordingly, the electronic device 200 may determine the display area of the held housing (for example, a housing with relatively little movement) as the active area. When the portable electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state, the entire area of the display 299 (eg, both the first display area 211 and the second display area 221) may be determined as the active area.

According to various embodiments, the first housing 210, in an unfolded state, has a first surface (first display area) 211 and a first surface facing in a first direction (e.g., front direction) (z-axis direction). It may include a second surface 212 facing a second direction (e.g., back direction) (-z axis direction) opposite to 211. In the unfolded state, the second housing 220 has a third surface (second display area) 221 facing the first direction (eg, z-axis direction) and a third surface (second display area) 221 facing the second direction (eg, -z-axis direction). It may include four sides (222). When the electronic device 200 is unfolded, the first surface 211 of the first housing 210 and the third surface 221 of the second housing 220 move in the same first direction (e.g., z-axis direction). It can be operated in such a way that the first surface 211 and the third surface 221 face each other in the folded state. When the electronic device 200 is unfolded, the second surface 212 of the first housing 210 and the fourth surface 222 of the second housing 220 move in the same second direction (-z axis direction). In the facing and folded state, the second surface 212 and the fourth surface 222 may be operated to face opposite directions.

According to various embodiments, the first housing 210 is coupled with a first side frame 213 and a first side frame 213 that at least partially forms the exterior of the electronic device 200, It may include a first rear cover 214 that forms at least a portion of the second surface 212 of. According to one embodiment, the first side frame 213 includes a first side 213a, a second side 213b extending from one end of the first side 213a, and a second side extending from the other end of the first side 213a. It may include a third side 213c. According to one embodiment, the first side frame 213 may be formed into a rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular) shape through the first side 213a, the second side 213b, and the third side 213c. .

A portion of the first side frame 213 may be formed of a conductor. For example, referring to FIG. 2b, a portion of the first side 213a (ⓕ) a portion of the second side 213b (ⓓ) and a portion (ⓔ) of the third side 213c may be formed of a metal material. The conductor It may be electrically connected to a grip sensor (not shown) disposed adjacent to the inner space of the first housing 210. The processor measures the capacitance formed between the conductor and the ground (e.g., the ground of the main printed circuit board) through the grip sensor. Measure and, based on the measured capacitance value, where the dielectric (e.g., finger, palm, face) is close to (or in contact with) the first housing 210 and where the dielectric is in contact with the first housing 210. (For example, the first side 213a, the second side 213b, and the third side 213c) can be recognized.

According to various embodiments, the second housing 220 is coupled with a second side frame 223 and a second side frame 223 that at least partially forms the exterior of the electronic device 200, It may include a second rear cover 224 that forms at least a portion of the fourth surface 222 of . According to one embodiment, the second side frame 223 includes a fourth side 223a, a fifth side 223b extending from one end of the fourth side 223a, and a fifth side 223b extending from the other end of the fourth side 223a. It may include a sixth side 223c. According to one embodiment, the second side frame 223 may be formed into a rectangular shape through the fourth side 223a, the fifth side 223b, and the sixth side 223c.

A portion of the second side frame 223 may be formed of a conductor. For example, referring to FIG. 2b, part of the fourth side 223a (ⓑ) part of the fifth side 223b (ⓐ) and part of the sixth side 223c (ⓒ) may be formed of a metal material. The conductor It may be electrically connected to a grip sensor (not shown) disposed adjacent to the inner space of the second housing 220. The processor detects the capacitance formed between the conductor and the ground (e.g., the ground of the main printed circuit board) through the grip sensor. Measure, and based on the measured capacitance value, where the dielectric is close to (or in contact with) the second housing 220 and where it is in contact with the dielectric in the second housing 220 (e.g., the fourth side 223a) , the fifth side 223b, and the sixth side 223c) can be recognized.

According to various embodiments, the pair of

housings

210 and 220 is not limited to the shape and combination shown, and may be implemented by combining and/or combining other shapes or parts. For example, the first side frame 213 may be formed integrally with the first rear cover 214, and the second side frame 223 may be formed integrally with the second rear cover 224.

According to various embodiments, the first rear cover 214 and the second rear cover 224 may be, for example, coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, or metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or Magnesium) may be formed by at least one or a combination of at least two.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a first protective cover 215 (eg, a first protective frame or a first decorative member) coupled along an edge of the first housing 210. The electronic device 200 may include a second protective cover 225 (eg, a second protective frame or a second decorative member) coupled along an edge of the second housing 220. According to one embodiment, the first protective cover 215 and the second protective cover 225 may be formed of metal or polymer material.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a sub-display 231 disposed separately from the display 299. According to one embodiment, the sub-display 231 is disposed to be at least partially exposed to the second surface 212 of the first housing 210, so that when in the folded state, it displays status information of the electronic device 200. You can. According to one embodiment, the sub-display 231 may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a partial area of the first rear cover 214. In some embodiments, the sub-display 231 may be disposed on the fourth side 222 of the second housing 220. In this case, the sub-display 231 may be arranged to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover 224.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 includes an input device 203, an

audio output device

201 and 202, a

camera module

205 and 208, a key input device 206, a connector port 207, and a sensor module. It may include at least one of (not shown). In one embodiment, a sensor module (e.g., sensor module 176 in FIG. 1) and camera 205 may be placed below display 299 when facing the front.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may be operated to maintain an intermediate state through the hinge assembly 240. In this case, the electronic device 200 may control the display 299 so that different content is displayed in the display area corresponding to the first side 211 and the display area corresponding to the third side 221.

Referring to FIG. 2F, the electronic device 200 according to various embodiments rotates the first side frame 213, the second side frame 223, and the first side frame 213 and the second side frame 223. It may include a hinge assembly 240 that enables connection. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 includes a first support plate 2131 that extends at least partially from the first side frame 213, and a second support plate that extends at least partially from the second side frame 223. (2231) may be included. According to one embodiment, the first support plate 2131 may be formed integrally with the first side frame 213 or may be structurally coupled to the first side frame 213. Likewise, the second support plate 2231 may be formed integrally with the second side frame 223 or may be structurally coupled to the second side frame 223. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include a display 299 disposed to be supported by the first support plate 2131 and the second support plate 2231. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 is coupled to the first side frame 213 and includes a first rear cover 214 and a second side surface that provide a first space between the first support plate 2131 and the first side frame 213. It may include a second rear cover 224 that is coupled to the frame 223 and provides a second space between the second support plate 2231 and the second support plate 2231 . In some embodiments, the first side frame 213 and the first rear cover 214 may be formed as one piece. In some embodiments, the second side frame 223 and the second rear cover 224 may be formed as one piece. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include a first housing 210 provided through a first side frame 213, a first support plate 2131, and a first rear cover 214. . According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include a second housing 220 provided through a second side frame 223, a second support plate 2231, and a second rear cover 224. .

Although not shown, the hinge assembly 240 includes a first arm structure coupled to the first housing 210 (e.g., the first support plate 2131) and a second housing 220 (e.g., the second support plate 2131). A second arm structure coupled to the support plate 2231), and physically contacting the first arm structure and the second arm structure so that the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 have resistance to rotation. May include a detent structure. The

foldable housings

210 and 220 may have resistance to rotation due to the contact force of the detent structure (e.g., force pushing the first arm structure and the second arm structure).

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 includes a first board assembly 261 (e.g., main printed circuit board) disposed in the first space between the first side frame 213 and the first rear cover 214. , it may include a camera assembly 263, a first battery 271, or a first bracket 251. According to one embodiment, the camera assembly 263 may include a plurality of cameras (e.g., the

camera modules

205 and 208 of FIGS. 2A and 2C) and may be electrically connected to the first substrate assembly 261. You can. According to one embodiment, the first bracket 251 may provide a support structure and improved rigidity for supporting the first substrate assembly 261 and/or the camera assembly 263. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 includes a second board assembly 262 (e.g., sub-printed circuit board) disposed in the second space between the second side frame 223 and the second rear cover 224. , it may include an antenna 290 (e.g., coil member), a second battery 272, or a second bracket 252. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 includes a plurality of devices disposed between the second side frame 223 and the second rear cover 224 across the hinge assembly 240 from the first substrate assembly 261. A wiring member 280 disposed to extend to electronic components (e.g., the second board assembly 262, the second battery 272, or the antenna 290) and providing an electrical connection (e.g., a flexible circuit (FPCB) (flexible printed circuit board)) may be included.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 supports the hinge assembly 240, is exposed to the outside when the electronic device 200 is in a folded state, and moves to the first space and the second space when the electronic device 200 is in an unfolded state. It may include a hinge cover 241 that is inserted so that it is not visible from the outside.

According to various embodiments, the electronic device 200 may include a first protective cover 215 coupled along an edge of the first side frame 213. According to one embodiment, the electronic device 200 may include a second protective cover 225 coupled along an edge of the second side frame 223. In the display 299, an edge of the first display area 211 may be protected by the first protective cover 215. The edge of the second display area 221 may be protected by the second protective cover 225. The protective cap 235 is disposed in an area corresponding to the hinge assembly 240 to protect a bent portion at the edge of the display 299.

FIG. 3A is a plan view illustrating a flexible display 301 of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

FIG. 3D is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

FIGS. 3B, 3C, and 3D are cross-sectional views taken along the X-X' direction of FIG. 3A.

Referring to FIG. 3A, the flexible display 301 (e.g., the display of FIGS. 2A to 2F) of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 101 of FIG. 1, the foldable electronic device 200 of FIGS. 2A to 2F). (299)) may include a bent portion 303 and a flat portion 305 located in an area excluding the bent portion 303. The bending portion 303 may be a portion where the flexible display 301 is bent and unbended around a bending axis. A pattern may be formed on the bent portion 303 to assist in bending the bent portion 303. The bent portion 303 may include a first area 311 where the first pattern 321 is formed and a second area 312 where the second pattern 322 is formed. In some embodiments, the first region 311 may be located in the center of the bent portion 303 with respect to the bending axis, and the second region 312 may be located within the bent portion 303 of the first region 311. It may be located in the periphery. The detailed configuration of the first pattern 321 of the first area 311 and the second pattern 322 of the second area 312 will be described later.

Referring to FIGS. 3B and 3C , the flexible display 301 may include a panel layer 302 and a flexible window 310. The panel layer 302 is a flexible component that displays an image in a predetermined direction (eg, z-axis direction), and may include, for example, an organic light emitting display (OLED). The flexible window 310 is located in the image display direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the panel layer 302 and bends according to the folding and unfolding of the flexible display 301, protecting the display panel from external shock, stress, or foreign matter. It may be an area that protects against risk factors such as inflow.

The flexible window 310 may include a glass layer 320, an adhesive layer 330, and a protective film 340. The glass layer 320 may be a layer that protects from external shock and stress. The glass layer 320 may include glass or tempered glass of various materials and thicknesses. To ensure flexibility of the glass layer 320, a pattern may be formed on the bent portion 303 of the glass layer 320.

The protective film 340 may be a layer that prevents contamination of the flexible display 301 and absorbs shock to reduce damage such as cracking of the glass layer 320. The protective film 340 may include various transparent polymer materials such as PET, TPU, and transparent polyimide. A coating layer 341 having various anti-reflection and/or anti-fouling functions may be located on the surface of the protective film 340.

The adhesive layer 330 may be a layer that adheres the glass layer 320 and the protective film 340. The adhesive layer 330 may include various optically clear adhesives (OCA) or optically clear resins (OCR). OCA or OCR may include, for example, acrylic-based, PVA-based, polyurethane-based, silicone-based, or epoxy-based resin. In the bent portion 303, the adhesive layer 330 fills and flattens the uneven areas formed by the pattern of the glass layer 320, thereby reducing the visibility deterioration of the flexible display 301 due to the pattern of the glass layer 320. It can be prevented. For example, the adhesive layer 330 includes OCA or OCR having the same refractive index as that of the glass layer 320, thereby reducing or preventing diffuse reflection or refraction of light caused by irregularities of the glass layer 320. You can.

The bent portion 303 has a first region 311 in which the first pattern 321 is formed at a first interval (D1) and a second region (311) in which the second pattern 322 is formed at a second interval (D2) in the window. 312) may be included. For example, the pattern may be an engraved pattern formed on the surface of the glass layer 320. In various embodiments, the engraved pattern may partially penetrate the glass layer 320 as shown in FIG. 3B, or may completely penetrate the glass layer 320 as shown in FIG. 3C. By forming a pattern in the bent portion 303, the thickness of the glass layer 320 is relatively high to improve impact resistance, and the bending rigidity of the bent portion 303 is relatively low to enable bending and When unbending, the flexible window 310 can be easily bent and unbended. Additionally, by forming different patterns on the glass layer 320, the rigidity against bending of the area of the glass layer 320 where the pattern is formed can be adjusted. For example, if the gap between the patterns engraved on the glass layer 320 is narrow, the bending rigidity of the area of the glass layer 320 where the pattern is formed may be relatively low, and if the gap is wide, the bending stiffness may be relatively high. In various embodiments, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 of the bent portion 303 are patterns formed by engraving on the glass surface, and the first gap D1 may be wider than the second gap D2. You can. The effects of this will be described later.

In various embodiments, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 of the bent portion 303 may be formed on one surface and/or both surfaces of the glass layer 320. For example, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 of the bent portion 303 may be formed on one surface of the glass layer 320 facing the protective film 340. For example, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 of the bent portion 303 may be formed on one surface of the glass layer 320 facing the panel layer 302. For example, the first pattern 321 of the bent portion is formed on one surface of the glass layer 320 facing the protective film 340, and the second pattern 322 of the bent portion is formed on the glass layer facing the panel layer 302. It may be formed on one surface of (320).

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view showing a bent state of the flexible window 310 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 4b is a cross-sectional view showing a bent state of the flexible window 10 according to a comparative example.

Referring to FIG. 4A, when the foldable display is bent, the first pattern 321 has a first gap D1 in the first area 311 disposed at the center of the bent portion 303 with respect to the bending axis. A second pattern 322 is formed with a second gap D2 in the second area 312 disposed at the periphery of the first area 311, and the first gap D1 is the second gap D2. It may be relatively wider than (D2). Because the first gap D1 is relatively wide, the bending rigidity of the first area 311 may be relatively greater than that of the second area 312. Therefore, since bending deformation is not concentrated in the center of the bent portion 303, the radius of curvature (R1) of the central portion of the bent portion 303 may be larger than the radius of curvature (R2) of the comparative example described later, and the adhesive layer 330 The stress due to bending applied to may be reduced compared to the comparative example.

Referring to FIG. 4B, patterns 21 formed at regular intervals D may be formed on the bent portion 13 of the flexible window 10 according to the comparative example. In the comparative example, when the flexible window 10 is bent, bending deformation may be concentrated in the central part of the bent portion 303. Accordingly, the central portion of the bent portion 13 is bent with a relatively small radius of curvature R2, and therefore the stress applied to the adhesive layer 30 at the central portion of the bent portion 13 is relatively high. The highly stressed adhesive layer 30 may cause excessive plastic deformation and/or material flow, and the adhesive strength may decrease due to repeated bending, which may cause the protective film 40 at the center of the bent portion 13 to form a glass layer. It may increase the risk of being eliminated from (20). 4A and 4B, the flexible window 310 according to various embodiments of the present invention reduces the stress concentration phenomenon on the adhesive layer 330 at the center of the bent portion 303, thereby reducing the stress concentration of the protective film 340. It can be seen that the risk of dropping out can be reduced.

FIGS. 5A to 5C are enlarged plan views showing the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 of the flexible window 310 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 5A, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 may include straight slits. The straight slit may be formed in a direction substantially parallel to the bending axis direction (eg, x-axis direction). Straight slits can be relatively easy to manufacture.

Referring to FIG. 5B, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 may include a wave-shaped pattern. The wave-shaped pattern may be, for example, a W to M or similar curved pattern formed on the surface of the glass layer 320. Wave-like patterns can have relatively high flexibility.

Referring to FIG. 5C , in various embodiments, the first and second patterns 322 may have a diamond shape. The diamond shape has the advantage of improving the flexibility of the glass layer 320 by increasing the area occupied by the pattern in the bent portion 303.

FIG. 6A is an enlarged plan view showing the bent portion 303 of the flexible window 310 according to various embodiments.

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view showing the bent portion 303 of the flexible window 310 according to various embodiments.

The cross section in FIG. 6B is a cross section in the Y-Y' direction of FIG. 6A.

6A and 6B, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 are engraved patterns on the glass layer 320, and the first width W1 of the first pattern 321 is 2 It may be narrower than the second width W2 of the pattern 322. In the case of a pattern engraved on the glass layer 320, the wider the width, the lower the bending rigidity of the glass layer 320 may be. Accordingly, the bending rigidity of the first and

second regions

311 and 312 of the flexible window 310 can be adjusted by adjusting the first width W1 and the second width W2. By making the first width W1 narrower than the second width W2, the bending rigidity of the first area 311 can be made relatively higher than that of the second area 312. Therefore, as explained through FIG. 4A, the concentration of stress in the central portion of the bent portion 303 can be reduced.

FIG. 7B is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a portion of the flexible window 310 of a foldable electronic device according to various embodiments.

The enlarged view of FIG. 7B is an enlarged view of areas A and B of FIG. 7A.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B , the flexible display 301 of a foldable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 200 of FIGS. 2A to 2F) according to various embodiments includes a first bending portion 303 and a foldable electronic device. It may include a second bent portion 304 disposed at the periphery of the first bent portion 303 around the folding axis of the device. The second bent portion 304 may be bent in a direction opposite to the direction in which the first bent portion 303 is bent. The foldable electronic device of FIG. 7A including the first bent part 303 and the second bent part 304 is a 'dumbbell type' foldable electronic device according to the folded shape of the flexible display 301. It can be said that

The first bent portion 303 may include a first region 311 and a second region 312, and the second bent portion 304 may include a third region 313 and a fourth region 314. there is. A first pattern 321 formed at a first interval D1 may be formed in the first area 311, and a second pattern 322 formed at a second interval D2 may be formed in the second area 312. A third pattern 323 and a fourth pattern 324 formed with a third gap D3 and a fourth gap D4 may be formed in the third area 313 and the fourth area 314, respectively. In various embodiments, the first to

fourth patterns

321, 322, 323, and 234 of the first region 311 and the third region 313 are different from the first bent portion 303 and the second bent portion 304. It is engraved on the glass layer 320 or formed to penetrate the glass layer 320, the first gap D1 is wider than the second gap D2, and the third gap D3 is wider than the fourth gap D4. ) can be wider than Accordingly, the bending rigidity of the first region 311 may be higher than that of the second region 312, and the bending rigidity of the third region 313 may be higher than that of the fourth region 314. Accordingly, the phenomenon of stress being concentrated at the center of the first bent portion 303 and the second bent portion 304 can be prevented or alleviated.

FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram showing a side surface of a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

FIG. 8B is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

FIG. 8C is an enlarged plan view showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

Figure 8b is an enlarged view of area C in Figure 8a.

Referring to FIG. 8A, one end of the flexible display 301 according to various embodiments may be wound and unwound around a bobbin. A display that is wound and unwound on a bobbin may be referred to as a 'rollable display' or a 'slidable display'. The bent portion 303 of the flexible window 310 is located in an area corresponding to the area of the flexible display 301 that is wound and unwound with respect to the bobbin, and can be wound and unwound by bending and unbending with respect to the bobbin. The bent portion 303 has a first area 311 wound relatively on the outside (direction away from the bobbin) and an inside of the first area 311 (direction closer to the bobbin) when wound around the bobbin. It may include a second area 312. Referring to FIGS. 8B and 8C, the first pattern 321 is formed in the first area 311 at a first interval D1, and the second pattern 322 is formed in the second area 312 at a second interval D1. It can be formed as (D2). In various embodiments, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 are formed as engravings on the flexible glass, and the second gap D2 may be smaller than the first gap D1. The bending rigidity of the second area 312 may be smaller than that of the first area 311. Therefore, when the flexible display 301 is wound, it may be easy for the second area 312 to be wound inside the first area 311.

FIG. 9A is a plan view showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

FIG. 9C is a side view showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B , the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 may be embossed patterns on the surface of the glass layer 320 . The first patterns 321 are formed on the first area 311 at a first distance D1 from each other, and the second patterns 322 are formed on the second area 312 at a second distance D2 from each other. can be formed in The first gap D1 may be narrower than the second gap D2. The first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 may have a shape such as a straight slit, wave shape, or diamond shape. For this, reference may be made to the description of FIGS. 5A to 5C as long as there is no contradiction.

The embossed pattern increases the thickness of the glass layer 320 in the area where the pattern is located, so the bending rigidity of the flexible window 310 can increase as the pattern is formed more densely. Therefore, the first gap D1 is narrower than the second gap D2, so that, for example, the first pattern 321 formed in relief in the first area 311 is similar to the second pattern in the second area 312 ( By being formed more densely than 322, the first region 311 may have higher bending rigidity than the second region 312.

Referring to FIG. 9C, the width of the first pattern 321 may be wider than the width of the second pattern 322. Since the embossed pattern increases the thickness of the glass layer 320, the bending rigidity of the flexible window 310 may increase as the width of the pattern increases. Accordingly, since the width of the first pattern 321 is wider than the width of the second pattern 322, the bending rigidity of the first region 311 may be greater than that of the second region 312.

Referring again to FIG. 9A, the first area 311 may be placed at the center of the bent portion 303 based on the bending axis, and the second area 312 may be placed at the periphery of the first area 311. . Accordingly, the central portion of the bent portion 303 may have high bending rigidity, and the peripheral portion may have low bending rigidity. Therefore, stress concentration on the adhesive layer 330 at the center of the bent portion 303 can be prevented or reduced. For this, reference may be made to the description of FIG. 4A as long as there is no contradiction.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are plan views showing a flexible display 301 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B , in various embodiments, the bent portion 1003 of the flexible window 1010 of the flexible display 1001 may include an engraved pattern 1021 or an embossed pattern 1022. The engraved pattern 1021 may include a pattern that entirely or partially penetrates the glass layer of the flexible window 1010 (eg, the glass layer in FIG. 3C). Regarding the layered structure of the flexible display 1001, reference may be made to FIGS. 3B, 3C, and 9B as long as there is no conflict.

Referring to FIG. 10A, in various embodiments, the spacing between the engraved patterns 1021 formed on the bent portion 1003 may gradually decrease from the center to the periphery based on the bending axis of the flexible display 1001. You can. Accordingly, the bending rigidity of the bent portion 1003 may gradually increase from the peripheral portion to the center. Therefore, it is possible to reduce or prevent the phenomenon of stress being concentrated in the center when the bent portion 1003 is bent.

Referring to FIG. 10B , in various embodiments, the spacing between the embossed patterns 1022 formed on the bent portion 1003 may gradually increase from the center to the periphery based on the bending axis of the flexible display 1001. Accordingly, the bending rigidity of the bent portion 1003 may gradually increase from the peripheral portion to the center. Therefore, it is possible to reduce or prevent the phenomenon of stress being concentrated in the center when the bent portion 1003 is bent.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view illustrating a method of processing the glass layer 320 according to various embodiments.

In various embodiments, the pattern of the glass layer 320 (e.g., the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322) is etched after laser beam irradiation and/or masking printing on the flat glass layer 320. It can be formed through. The laser beam may include a Bessel beam laser formed by an axicon lens. Etching is carried out in various acid and/or base solutions, for example ammonium fluoride (NH4F), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), nitric acid (HNO3), silicic acid fluoride (H2SiF6), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), hydrofluoric acid (HF). It can be performed by Referring to FIG. 11, a phase change region of the glass layer may be formed by irradiating the glass layer with a Bessel beam laser. In the phase change area, the material of the glass layer changes phase, making it easier for the etching solution to penetrate. When an etching solution is applied to the glass layer on which the phase change region is formed, the glass layer begins to be etched from the phase change region, thereby forming a pattern on the glass layer.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view 1301 of a test device 1300 for a first evaluation, a second evaluation, and a third evaluation, and a diagram 1302 showing the test device 1300, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 12 , in one embodiment, the test device 1300 may include a clamping device (eg, manual clamping fixture) 1310 and a probe (eg, penetration probe) 1320. Flexible materials (e.g., flexible films and/or laminates) (e.g., glass layer 320 in FIG. 3B, or flexible window 310 including a glass layer 320) may be placed in clamping device 1310. there is. The probe 1320 may be implemented to be able to move linearly with respect to the clamping device 1310. Probe 1320 can be moved linearly to apply a load to a flexible material disposed in clamping device 1310. When the probe 1320 breaks a flexible material, the load (eg, breaking load) may be detected through a detector (eg, sensor) connected to the probe 1320.

According to one embodiment, the clamping device 1310 may include a first plate 1311, a second plate 1312, and a plurality of supports 1313.

According to one embodiment, the first plate 1311 may be a surface plate. A flexible material to be tested (e.g., glass layer 320 in FIG. 3B or flexible window 310 including glass layer 320) may be placed on first plate 1311. The first plate 1311 may include a support surface 1311a on which the flexible material to be tested is placed. The support surface 1311a of the first plate 1311 may be substantially flat. The first plate 1311 may include an opening 1311b corresponding to the probe 1320. Opening 1311b may reduce or prevent the impact of first plate 1311 on the strength detection of the flexible material. The opening 1311b may prevent the first plate 1311 from interfering with the linear movement of the probe 1320.

According to one embodiment, the second plate 1312 allows the probe 1320 to press against a flexible material (e.g., the glass layer 320 in FIG. 3B or the flexible window 310 including a glass layer 320). It may be spaced apart from the first plate 1311 in the direction in which it moves linearly. The space between the first plate 1311 and the second plate 1312 may prevent the clamping device 1310 from interfering with the linear movement of the probe 1320. A plurality of supports 1313 may be disposed between the first plate 1311 and the second plate 1312. A plurality of supports 1313 may connect the first plate 1311 and the second plate 1312. The second plate 1312 may be combined with a body (not separately shown) included in the test device 1300, and the first plate 1311 is supported by a plurality of supports 1313 to support the body. It may be spaced apart from the second plate 1312 coupled with. The body of the test device 1300 is a substantial support body that stably supports components such as the probe 1320 and the second plate 1312, and can reduce vibration or shaking when the test device 1300 is driven.

According to one embodiment, the glass layer 320 of FIG. 3B, or a laminate including the glass layer 320 (e.g., the flexible window 310 of FIG. 3B) is connected to the support surface 1311a of the first plate 1311. can be placed in According to one embodiment, the probe 1320 may include a pen input device (eg, an electronic pen, digital pen, or stylus pen). The pen input device may be placed on the test device 1300 by standing in a direction substantially perpendicular to the support surface 1311a of the first plate 1311. When the test device 1300 is driven, the pen tip 1321 of the pen input device presses the glass layer 320 (see FIG. 3B) disposed on the first plate 1311, or the pen input device falls and the glass layer ( 320) can be shocked. In the test device 1300, the vertically standing pen input device is moved and a load or impact is applied to the glass layer 320 (see FIG. 3B) when the user misses and drops the pen input device, or when the user uses the pen input device. It can be understood as being at least similar to a situation in which a touch input is used.

According to one embodiment, the pen input device may substantially weigh about 5.6 g.

According to one embodiment, the diameter D1 of the pen tip 1321 included in the pen input device may be substantially about 0.3 mm.

According to one embodiment, the pen tip 1321 of the pen input device may be a ball tip made of tungsten carbide. The ball tip may be provided in the form of a curved surface whose end is convex.

According to various embodiments, the probe 1320 may be provided as an object that can substantially replace a pen input device.

According to one embodiment, the test device 1300 may follow the ASTM F1306-16 standard for evaluating puncture resistance for flexible materials, with respect to the third evaluation. The probe 1320 may be provided in accordance with the ASTM F1306-16 standard. According to the ASTM F1306-16 standard, the support surface 1311a of the first plate 1311 may have a surface roughness of approximately 200 μm. According to the ASTM F1306-16 standard, the diameter D2 of the opening 1311b of the first plate 1311 may be substantially about 35 mm. According to the ASTM F1306-16 standard, the distance H between the first plate 1311 and the second plate 1312 in the linear movement direction of the probe 1320 may be substantially about 76 mm.

According to one embodiment, the first evaluation and the second evaluation may be substantially performed through a test device 1300 according to the ASTM F1306-16 standard.

To evaluate the durability of a flexible display, flexible window, and/or glass layer according to various embodiments of the present invention, dropping a pen input device using the test device 1300 against glass layers 320 of different thicknesses. Testing and pressure testing were performed. The test results are shown in a table.

글래스 층의 두께(㎛)glass layer Thickness (㎛)	크랙 발생시 수치Number when crack occurs
글래스 층의 두께(㎛)glass layer Thickness (㎛)	펜 낙하 높이(cm)Pen drop height (cm)	펜 가압 하중(kgf)Pen pressure load (kgf)
3030	6.36.3	0.330.33
4040	16.316.3	0.560.56
6060	22.622.6	1.051.05
100100	100 이상100 or more	2.462.46
110110	100 이상100 or more	2.902.90
120120	100 이상100 or more	3.593.59
130130	100 이상100 or more	4.034.03
140140	100 이상100 or more	5.045.04
150150	100 이상100 or more	5.695.69
160160	100 이상100 or more	6.146.14
170170	100 이상100 or more	7.067.06

In the actual use environment of electronic devices, the shock and load applied by the pen input device correspond to a drop impact of 6 cm or less and a load of 0.3 kgf or less. Therefore, through the above experimental results, it can be seen that the glass layer of the present invention can protect the foldable display from impacts and loads in an actual use environment when it has a thickness of 30 micrometers or more.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention is an electronic device including a flexible display 301, including a glass layer 320, and the flexible display 301 displays an image with respect to the flexible display 301. It is disposed in a first direction that protects the flexible display 301, and includes a flexible window 310 including a bending portion 303 that is bent and unbended around a bending axis, and the bending portion 303 ), the first pattern 321 is the first pattern (D1), the first area 311 is engraved on the surface of the glass layer 320, and the second pattern 322 is the second pattern (D2). It includes a second area 312 engraved on the surface of the glass layer 320, and the first pattern D1 of the first pattern 321 is connected to the second pattern D2 of the second pattern 322. It may be wider than

In various embodiments, the bending rigidity of the first region 311 about the bending axis may be higher than the bending rigidity of the second region 312 about the bending axis.

In various embodiments, the flexible window 310 is disposed between the protective film 340 and the protective film 340 and the flexible window 310 located in the first direction with respect to the glass layer 320. It may include an adhesive layer 330 that bonds the protective film 340 and the glass layer 320 to each other.

In various embodiments, the adhesive layer 330 may include at least one of optically clear resin or optically clear adhesive.

In various embodiments, the width of the first pattern 321 may be narrower than the width of the second pattern 322.

In various embodiments, the first area 311 is disposed in the center of the bent portion 303 with respect to the bending axis, and the second area 312 is disposed in the center of the bending portion 303 with respect to the bending axis. It can be placed in the periphery of .

In various embodiments, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 may include straight slits arranged parallel to the bending axis.

In various embodiments, the first pattern 321 and the second pattern 322 may include a wave shape or a diamond shape.

In various embodiments, the flexible display 301 may be a rollable display in which one end is wound and unwound about a bobbin. The bent portion 303 is located in an area of the rollable display that is wound and unwound with respect to the bobbin, and the second area 312 may be wound inside the first area 311.

In various embodiments, the flexible window 310 is disposed on the periphery of the bent portion 303 with respect to the bending axis, and bends and unbends in a direction opposite to the bending and unbending direction of the bent portion 303. It may include a second bent portion 303. The second bent portion 303 includes a third region in which a third pattern is formed and a fourth region in which a fourth pattern is formed, and the bending rigidity of the third region may be higher than the bending rigidity of the fourth region. .

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention is an electronic device including a flexible display 301, which includes a glass layer 320 and is disposed in a first direction, which is the direction in which the flexible display 301 displays an image. and protects the flexible display 301, and includes a flexible window 310 including a bent portion 303 that is bent and unbended around a bending axis, and the bent portion 303 is the flexible window 310. It includes a first area 311 in which a first pattern 321 is embossed on the surface of the flexible window 310, and a second area 312 in which a second pattern 322 is embossed on the surface of the flexible window 310. The pattern 321 may have narrower spacing than the second pattern 322 .

In various embodiments, the width of the first pattern 321 may be wider than the width of the second pattern 322.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present invention is an electronic device including a flexible display 301, which includes a glass layer 320 and is disposed in a first direction, which is the direction in which the flexible display 301 displays an image. and protects the flexible display 301, and includes a flexible window 310 including a bent portion 303 that is bent and unbended around a bending axis, and the bent portion 303 is formed by the glass layer 320. It includes a pattern embossed or engraved on the surface, and the spacing of the patterns may gradually change from the periphery to the center of the bent portion 303 with respect to the bending axis.

The bending rigidity of the bent portion 303 may gradually increase from the peripheral portion to the central portion of the bent portion 303 based on the bending axis.

In addition, the embodiments disclosed in this document and the drawings are merely presented as specific examples to easily explain the technical content according to the embodiments disclosed in this document and to aid understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this document. It is not intended to limit the scope of the examples. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments disclosed in this document includes all changes or modified forms derived based on the technical idea of the various embodiments disclosed in this document in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein. must be interpreted.

Claims

In an electronic device including a flexible display,

A flexible window including a glass layer, disposed in a first direction relative to the flexible display, which is a direction in which the flexible display displays an image, to protect the flexible display, and including a bending portion that bends and unbends around a bending axis. Contains,

The bent portion includes a first region in which a first pattern is engraved on the surface of the glass layer at a first interval and a second region in which a second pattern is engraved in the surface of the glass layer at a second interval,

The electronic device wherein the first spacing of the first pattern is wider than the second spacing of the second pattern.
According to claim 1,

The electronic device wherein the bending rigidity of the first region about the bending axis is higher than the bending rigidity of the second region about the bending axis.
According to claim 1,

The flexible window includes a protective film positioned in the first direction with respect to the glass layer; and

An electronic device comprising an adhesive layer disposed between the protective film and the flexible window to adhere the protective film and the glass layer to each other.
According to claim 1,

An electronic device wherein the width of the first pattern is narrower than the width of the second pattern.
According to claim 1,

The first area is disposed in the center of the bent portion with respect to the bending axis,

The second area is disposed at the periphery of the first area with respect to the bending axis.
According to claim 1,

The first pattern and the second pattern include a wave shape, a diamond shape, or a straight slit shape arranged parallel to the bending axis.
According to claim 1,

The flexible window is disposed at a periphery of the bent part with respect to the bending axis and includes a second bent part bent and unbended in a direction opposite to the bending and unbending direction of the bent part,

The second bent portion includes a third area where a third pattern is formed and a fourth area where a fourth pattern is formed,

The electronic device wherein the bending rigidity of the third region is higher than that of the fourth region.
In an electronic device including a flexible display,

A flexible window including a glass layer, disposed in a first direction in which the flexible display displays an image to protect the flexible display, and including a bending portion that bends and unbends around a bending axis,

The bent portion includes a first region in which a first pattern is embossed on the surface of the flexible window and a second region in which a second pattern is embossed on the surface of the flexible window,

An electronic device wherein the first pattern has a narrower gap than the second pattern.
According to claim 8,

The electronic device wherein the bending rigidity of the first region about the bending axis is higher than the bending rigidity of the second region about the bending axis.
According to claim 8,

The flexible window includes a protective film positioned in the first direction with respect to the glass layer; and

An electronic device comprising an adhesive layer disposed between the protective film and the flexible window to adhere the protective film and the glass layer to each other.
According to claim 8,

An electronic device wherein the width of the first pattern is wider than the width of the second pattern.
According to claim 8,

The first area is disposed in the center of the bent portion with respect to the bending axis,

The second area is disposed at the periphery of the first area with respect to the bending axis.
According to claim 8,

The first pattern and the second pattern include a wave shape, a diamond shape, or a straight slit shape arranged parallel to the bending axis.
In an electronic device including a flexible display,

A flexible window including a glass layer, disposed in a first direction in which the flexible display displays an image to protect the flexible display, and including a bending portion that bends and unbends around a bending axis,

The bent portion includes a pattern embossed or engraved on the surface of the glass layer,

An electronic device in which the spacing of the patterns gradually changes from the periphery of the bent portion to the center with respect to the bending axis.
According to claim 14,

An electronic device in which the bending rigidity of the bent portion gradually increases from the periphery of the bent portion to the center with respect to the bending axis.