Display Devices

Abstract

The present application relates to a foldable display device and a display device. The foldable display device includes: a flexible display panel; a first plate and a second plate, which support the flexible display panel, and when the foldable display device is in an unfolded state, the first plate and the second plate are arranged in the same plane; and a hinge assembly, which is connected to the first plate and the second plate, so that the first plate rotates around a first rotation axis and the second plate rotates around a second rotation axis at the same time. In the unfolded state, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located on or above the surface of the first plate and the second plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept particularly relate to a display device, and more particularly, to an unfoldable foldable display device having an improved hinge structure. Background Art

[0002] Recently, small, lightweight display devices have been manufactured. Previously, cathode ray tube (CRT) display devices have been used due to performance and competitive price. However, CRT display devices are large and not very portable. Therefore, display devices such as plasma display devices, liquid crystal display devices or organic light emitting display devices have become popular due to their small size, light weight and low power consumption.

[0003] Recently, a bendable flexible display device has been developed. Research has been conducted to incorporate a flexible display device into a foldable mobile device. In this case, the flexible display device is arranged to span two bodies having a hinge structure, thereby providing a large screen. However, when the flexible display device is fully folded, the flexible display device itself may be damaged. Therefore, a hinge structure is required to limit the curvature radius of the bent flexible display device when the mobile device is folded. Summary of the invention

[0004] One or more exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concepts provide a foldable display device having an improved hinge structure.

[0005] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept, a foldable display device includes: a flexible display panel; a first plate and a second plate, which support the flexible display panel, and when the flexible display panel is in an unfolded state, the first plate and the second plate are arranged in the same plane; and a hinge assembly, which is coupled to the first plate and the second plate so that the first plate rotates around a first rotation axis and the second plate rotates around a second rotation axis at the same time. In the unfolded state, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located on or above the surface of the first plate and the second plate.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, a hinge assembly includes a first assembly and a cover receiving the first assembly, wherein the first assembly includes a first cam rotating part, a second cam rotating part, a cam guide, and a cam slider, the first cam rotating part being fixed to a lower surface of a first plate, the second cam rotating part being fixed to a lower surface of a second plate, the cam guide being disposed between the first cam rotating part and the second cam rotating part and guiding the rotation of the first cam rotating part and the second cam rotating part, and the cam slider sliding in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis as the first cam rotating part and the second cam rotating part rotate. The cam guide is fixed to the cover.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the cam guide includes a first rotating guide and a second rotating guide. The first cam rotating part of the first component may include a first rotating guide coupling part and a first cam inclined part, wherein the first rotating guide coupling part is coupled to the first rotating guide of the cam guide to be guided, and the first cam inclined part is formed on a surface of the first cam rotating part opposite to the first rotating guide coupling part. The second cam rotating part of the first component may include a second rotating guide coupling part and a second cam inclined part, wherein the second rotating guide coupling part is coupled to the second rotating guide of the cam guide to be guided, and the second cam inclined part is formed on a surface of the second cam rotating part opposite to the second rotating guide coupling part.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, a cam slider of a first assembly includes a first cam guide that guides a first cam inclined portion of a first cam rotating portion, and a second cam guide that guides a second cam inclined portion of a second cam rotating portion.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, in the expanded state, the first cam inclined portion and the second cam inclined portion are inclined in the same direction, and the first cam inclined portion and the second cam inclined portion are spaced apart from each other, and the cam guide of the first component is located between the first cam inclined portion and the second cam inclined portion.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the cam slider of the first assembly includes: a first fixed portion adjacent to the first cam guide and limiting the rotation range of the first cam rotating portion; and a second fixed portion adjacent to the second cam guide and limiting the rotation range of the second cam rotating portion.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the cam slider of the first assembly includes a slide opening extending in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis. The cam guide of the first assembly is fixed to the cover by a fixing member passing through the slide opening.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the cover includes a sliding protrusion, and the cam slider of the first assembly includes a sliding guide that receives the sliding protrusion.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the foldable display device further includes a second component received in the cover. The second component includes: a third cam rotating part fixed to the lower surface of the first plate; a fourth cam rotating part fixed to the lower surface of the second plate; a third cam guide disposed between the third cam rotating part and the fourth cam rotating part, and the third cam guide guides the rotation of the third cam rotating part and the fourth cam rotating part; and a second cam slider that slides in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis as the third cam rotating part and the fourth cam rotating part rotate. The first component and the second component are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the foldable display device in a plan view.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, when the foldable display device is folded or unfolded, the sliding direction of the cam slider of the first assembly is opposite to the sliding direction of the second cam slider of the second assembly.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the foldable display device further includes a third component received in the cover. The third component includes: a first rotating part fixed to the lower surface of the first plate; a second rotating part fixed to the lower surface of the second plate; and a guide fixed to the cover and disposed between the first rotating part and the second rotating part, and the guide guides the rotation of the first rotating part and the second rotating part.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are spaced apart from each other.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, in the unfolded state, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located in the flexible display panel.

[0018] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes: a flexible display panel; a first plate and a second plate, which support the flexible display panel, and the first plate and the second plate rotate around a first rotation axis and a second rotation axis, respectively; and a hinge assembly, which is connected to the first plate and the second plate. The hinge assembly includes a first assembly and a cover receiving the first assembly, wherein the first assembly includes a first cam rotating part, a second cam rotating part, a cam guide, and a cam slider, wherein the first cam rotating part is fixed to the lower surface of the first plate, the second cam rotating part is fixed to the lower surface of the second plate, the cam guide is arranged between the first cam rotating part and the second cam rotating part, and the cam guide guides the rotation of the first cam rotating part and the second cam rotating part, and the cam slider slides in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis as the first cam rotating part and the second cam rotating part rotate. The cam guide is fixed to the cover.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the cam guide includes a first rotating guide and a second rotating guide. The first cam rotating part of the first component includes a first rotating guide coupling part and a first cam inclined part, wherein the first rotating guide coupling part is coupled to the first rotating guide of the cam guide, and the first cam inclined part is formed on a surface of the first cam rotating part opposite to the first rotating guide coupling part. The second cam rotating part of the first component includes a second rotating guide coupling part and a second cam inclined part, wherein the second rotating guide coupling part is coupled to the second rotating guide of the cam guide, and the second cam inclined part is formed on a surface of the second cam rotating part opposite to the second rotating guide coupling part.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, in the deployed state, the first and second axes of rotation are located on or above a surface of the first and second plates.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the flexible display panel includes a first rigid region fixed to a first plate, a second rigid region fixed to a second plate, and a foldable region disposed between the first rigid region and the second rigid region. When the display device is folded, the foldable region is spaced apart from the first plate and the second plate. When the display device is unfolded, the foldable region contacts the first plate and the second plate.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, when the flexible display panel is unfolded, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located in the flexible display panel.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the display device further includes a second component received in the cover. The second component includes: a third cam rotating part fixed to the lower surface of the first plate; a fourth cam rotating part fixed to the lower surface of the second plate; a third cam guide disposed between the third cam rotating part and the fourth cam rotating part, and the third cam guide guides the rotation of the third cam rotating part and the fourth cam rotating part; and a second cam slider that slides in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis as the third cam rotating part and the fourth cam rotating part rotate.

[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concept, a display device includes: a flexible display panel; a first plate and a second plate, which support the flexible display panel, and when the flexible display panel is in an unfolded state, the first plate and the second plate are arranged in the same plane; and a hinge assembly, which is connected to the first plate and the second plate. The first plate rotates around a first rotation axis. At the same time, the second plate rotates around a second rotation axis. The hinge assembly also includes a first rotation guide and a second rotation guide, a first rotation guide coupling portion coupled to the first rotation guide and a first cam inclined portion formed opposite to the first rotation guide coupling portion, and a second rotation guide coupling portion coupled to the second rotation guide and a second cam inclined portion formed opposite to the second rotation guide coupling portion.

[0025] The display device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be folded symmetrically, and when the display device is unfolded, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located on or above the surface of the first plate and the second plate. Therefore, even if the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the wrinkles of the folded area of ​​the flexible display panel can be minimized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept.

[0027] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display device when the display device is unfolded.

[0028] Figure 2B yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display device when the display device is folded.

[0029] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a display device.

[0030] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a first component 100 of a display device.

[0031] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 1 is an exploded perspective view of a first component 100 of a display device.

[0032] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a third component 300 of a display device.

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 1 is an exploded perspective view of a third component 300 of a display device.

[0034] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C Shown in Figure 1 The display device is folded when the first component is operated.

[0035] 9A to 9C Shows when Figure 1 The display device is folded and unfolded when the first component and the second component are operated.

[0036] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B When Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the perimeter of the first component when the display device is unfolded and folded.

[0037] Fig.11 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] Fig.12 Shows Fig.11 An example of an electronic device is a smart phone. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concept will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the inventive concept. Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display device when the display device is unfolded. Figure 2B yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a display device when the display device is folded.

[0041] refer to Figures 1 to 2B According to an embodiment, the display device may include a flexible display panel DP, a first plate PL1, a second plate PL2, and a hinge assembly HA.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the flexible display panel DP is a flexible display panel on which an image is displayed. For example, the flexible display panel DP includes a flexible substrate and a plurality of pixels for displaying an image disposed on the flexible substrate. Each of the pixels includes a pixel circuit including a thin film transistor and a light emitting structure electrically connected to the pixel circuit. For example, the light emitting structure includes an organic light emitting element.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the flexible substrate is bendable and includes a transparent insulating material suitable for supporting a conductive pattern and a conductive layer stacked together. For example, the flexible substrate includes one of polyimide, polycarbonate, polyethylene, and the like.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the flexible display panel DP includes a first rigid area RA1 fixed to the first plate PL1, a second rigid area RA2 fixed to the second plate PL2, and a foldable area FA disposed between the first rigid area RA1 and the second rigid area RA2.

[0045] According to an embodiment, the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 are disposed under the flexible display panel DP and support the flexible display panel DP. As shown in the drawings, the first plate PL1 supports the right side of the flexible display panel DP, and the second plate PL2 supports the left side of the flexible display panel DP. However, the left and right sides are opposite, and in other embodiments, the first plate PL1 supports the left side of the flexible display panel DP, and the second plate PL2 supports the right side of the flexible display panel DP. The first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 are formed of metal.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the hinge assembly HA is coupled to the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 so that the first plate PL1 rotates about the first rotation axis C1 (eg, Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B ) and at the same time the second plate PL2 rotates about the second rotation axis C2 (as shown in Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B ) rotation.

[0047] According to an embodiment, the flexible display panel DP is combined with the first and second panels PL1 and PL2 in the first and second rigid areas RA1 and RA2, respectively. The flexible display panel DP is not combined with the first and second panels PL1 and PL2 in the foldable area FA.

[0048] Therefore, according to the implementation mode, Figure 2A As shown in FIG, when the display device is in an unfolded state, the foldable area FA of the flexible display panel DP unfolds and contacts the first and second panels PL1 and PL2. When the display device is folded, the foldable area FA of the flexible display panel DP is spaced apart from the first and second panels PL1 and PL2.

[0049] Therefore, according to the embodiment, even if the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded, wrinkles of the foldable area FA of the flexible display panel DP can be minimized.

[0050] In addition, according to an embodiment, the hinge assembly HA implements symmetrical folding so that the first plate PL1 rotates around the first rotation axis and the second plate PL2 rotates around the second rotation axis. Therefore, even if the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the wrinkles of the foldable area FA of the flexible display panel DP can be minimized.

[0051] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a display device.

[0052] Reference Figure 3 According to an embodiment, the display device includes a flexible display panel DP, a first plate PL1, a second plate PL2, and a hinge assembly HA.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the hinge assembly HA includes a first assembly 100, a second assembly 200, a third assembly 300, a fourth assembly 400, and a cover CV.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the first assembly 100 and the second assembly 200 have the same configuration and are installed opposite to each other. That is, the first assembly 100 and the second assembly 200 have the same configuration and are symmetrically arranged with respect to the center of the display device in a plan view.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the third assembly 300 and the fourth assembly 400 have the same configuration and are installed on the same side or on opposite sides of the hinge assembly HA.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the first component 100 and the second component 200 each include: Figure 4 The cam slider 110 shown in FIG. 1 allows the first panel PL1 and the second panel PL2 to be symmetrically folded at the same time.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the third assembly 300 and the fourth assembly 400 assist the folding of the first panel PL1 and the second panel PL2.

[0058] Will refer to Figures 4 to 8C A detailed description of the first component 100 and the third component 300 will be presented. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C , 9A to 9C , Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B The operations of the first component 100 and the third component 300 will be described in detail.

[0059] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a first component 100 of a display device. Figure 5 yes Figure 1 1 is an exploded perspective view of a first assembly 100 of a display device of FIG. The second assembly 200 is substantially the same as the first assembly 100, and thus a repeated detailed description of the second assembly 200 will be omitted.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to an embodiment, the first assembly 100 includes a cam slider 110 , a cam guide 120 , a first cam rotating portion 130 , and a second cam rotating portion 140 .

[0061] According to an embodiment, the cam guide 120 includes a first rotation guide 122 and a second rotation guide 124 .

[0062] According to the embodiment, the first cam rotating part 130 has a semi-cylindrical shape as a whole. That is, the first cam rotating part 130 has a semi-cylindrical shape having a flat surface and a height in the second direction D2, and the first plate connecting part 136 is formed on the upper surface of the first cam rotating part 130 to face the first plate PL1. The first cam inclined part 132 extends from the outer circumference of the semi-cylinder in the second direction D2 on the semicircular surface of the semi-cylinder facing each other in the first direction D1. The first cam rotating part 130 also includes a first rotation guide coupling part 134. Therefore, the first cam rotating part 130 has a semi-cylindrical shape as a whole, and includes the first cam inclined part 132 and the first rotation guide coupling part 134 facing each other in the second direction D2 in the drawings. In the drawings, the first plate connecting part 136 is formed on the surface of the first cam rotating part 130 perpendicular to the third direction D3.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the first cam rotating part 130 is fixed on the bottom surface of the first board PL1 through the first board connecting part 136. For example, the first board connecting part 136 has a recessed portion formed thereon. The recessed portion receives the protrusion on the bottom surface of the first board PL1.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the protrusion on the bottom surface of the first plate PL1 is received in the recess. A fixing member such as a screw is received in the first plate connecting portion 136 to fix the first plate PL1 in the recess. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B The first cam rotating part 130 is fixed to the bottom surface of the first plate PL1 as shown in FIG.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the first cam inclined portion 132 has a width in the second direction D2 that varies along the curved surface of the first cam rotating portion 130. In the drawings, the first cam inclined portion 132 is inclined so that the width in the second direction D2 increases along the first direction D1. The first cam inclined portion 132 contacts the first cam guide 112a of the cam slider 110. When the first cam rotating portion 130 rotates, the first cam rotating portion 130 pushes the first cam guide 112a of the cam slider 110 in the direction opposite to the second direction D2; or the first cam guide 112a moves so that the first cam rotating portion 130 can rotate.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the first rotation guide coupling portion 134 is coupled to the first rotation guide 122 of the cam guide 120 to guide the rotation of the first cam rotating part 130 .

[0067] According to the embodiment, the second cam rotating part 140 includes a second cam inclined portion 142 , a second rotation guide coupling portion 144 , and a second plate connecting portion 146 .

[0068] According to an embodiment, the second cam rotating part 140 has a semi-cylindrical shape as a whole. In the drawings, the second cam inclined portion 142 and the second rotating guide coupling portion 144 face each other from both sides of the second cam rotating part 140 in the second direction D2, respectively. In the drawings, the second plate connecting portion 146 is formed on a surface of the second cam rotating part 140 that is perpendicular to the third direction D3.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the second cam inclined portion 142 has a width in the second direction D2 that varies along the curved surface of the second cam rotating portion 140. In the drawings, the second cam inclined portion 142 is inclined so that the width in the second direction D2 increases along the first direction D1. The second cam inclined portion 142 contacts the second cam guide 112b of the cam slider 110. When the second cam rotating portion 140 rotates, the second cam rotating portion 140 pushes the second cam guide 112b of the cam slider 110 in the second direction D2; or the second cam guide 112b moves so that the second cam rotating portion 140 can rotate.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the second rotation guide coupling portion 144 is coupled to the second rotation guide 124 of the cam guide 120 to guide the rotation of the second cam rotating part 140 .

[0071] According to an embodiment, the second cam rotating portion 140 is fixed to the bottom surface of the second plate PL2 by the second plate connecting portion 146. For example, the second plate connecting portion 146 has a recessed portion formed thereon. A protrusion on the bottom surface of the second plate PL2 is received in the recessed portion. A fixing member such as a screw is received in the second plate connecting portion 146 to fix the second cam rotating portion 140 to the bottom surface of the second plate PL2.

[0072] Therefore, the first cam inclined portion 132 and the second cam inclined portion 142 are inclined in the same direction. The first cam rotating portion 130 and the second cam rotating portion 140 are spaced apart in the second direction D2 with the cam guide 120 located therebetween.

[0073] According to an embodiment, the cam slider 110 includes a first cam guide 112a, a second cam guide 112b, a first fixing portion 114a, and a second fixing portion 114b. When the first cam rotating portion 130 and the second cam rotating portion 140 rotate, the cam slider 110 slides along the second direction D2. Therefore, the first cam rotating portion 130 and the second cam rotating portion 140 rotate symmetrically.

[0074] According to an embodiment, the first cam guide 112a is inclined to contact the first cam inclined portion 132. The second cam guide 112b is inclined to contact the second cam inclined portion 142. The first cam guide 112a guides the first cam inclined portion 132 of the first cam rotating portion 130, and the second cam guide 112b guides the second cam inclined portion 142 of the second cam rotating portion 140.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the first fixing portion 114a is adjacent to the first cam guide 112a, and limits the rotation range of the first cam rotating portion 130. The second fixing portion 114b is adjacent to the second cam guide 112b, and limits the rotation range of the second cam rotating portion 140. For example, the first fixing portion 114a and the second fixing portion 114b have protrusions extending toward the first cam rotating portion 130 and the second cam rotating portion 140, respectively. A groove is formed at an end of each of the first cam rotating portion 130 and the second cam rotating portion 140 to engage the protrusion.

[0076] According to an embodiment, the cam slider 110 further includes a first sliding opening 116 a , a second sliding opening 116 b , and a sliding guide portion 118 .

[0077] According to an embodiment, the first sliding opening 116 a and the second sliding opening 116 b extend along the second direction D2 and penetrate the cam slider 110 .

[0078] According to an embodiment, the cam guide 120 is fixed to the cover CV by a fixing member such as a screw penetrating the first sliding opening 116a and the second sliding opening 116b and a fixing protrusion CVb protruding from the cover CV. The cam slider 110 slides along the second direction D2. The sliding guide portion 118 is an opening or a groove that receives the sliding protrusion CVa in the cover CV. The sliding guide portion 118 and the sliding protrusion CVa restrict the sliding direction of the cam slider 110 to be parallel to the second direction D2, so that the cam slider 110 slides along the second direction D2.

[0079] According to an embodiment, the first rotation guide 122 is coupled to the first rotation guide coupling portion 134 of the first cam rotating part 130 to guide the rotation of the first cam rotating part 130. The second rotation guide 124 is coupled to the second rotation guide coupling portion 144 of the second cam rotating part 140 to guide the rotation of the second cam rotating part 140.

[0080] For example, according to an embodiment, the first and second rotating guides 122 and 124 are grooves formed on the cam guide 120. The first and second rotating guide coupling portions 134 and 144 are protrusions extending toward the cam guides 120 on the first and second cam rotating portions 130 and 140, respectively.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the cam guide 120 further includes a first screw hole 126a and a second screw hole 126b. The cam guide 120 is fixed to the cover CV by using fixing members such as screws in the first screw hole 126a and the second screw hole 126b.

[0082] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a third component 300 of a display device. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 1 is an exploded perspective view of a third assembly 300 of a display device of FIG. The fourth assembly 400 is substantially the same as the third assembly 300, and thus a repeated detailed description of the fourth assembly 400 will be omitted.

[0083] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 According to an embodiment, the third assembly 300 is an auxiliary guide for folding the first panel PL1 and the second panel PL2. Unlike the first assembly 100, the third assembly 300 does not include a cam slider.

[0084] According to the embodiment, the third assembly 300 includes a guide 310 , a first rotating portion 320 , and a second rotating portion 330 .

[0085] According to the embodiment, the first rotating part 320 has a semi-cylindrical shape as a whole. The first rotating guide coupling part 322 is formed on the surface of the first rotating part 320 facing the guide 310, and in the drawings, the first plate connecting part 324 is formed on the surface of the first rotating part 320 perpendicular to the third direction D3.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the first rotating portion 320 is fixed to the bottom surface of the first board PL1 through the first board connecting portion 324. For example, the first board connecting portion 324 has a recessed portion formed thereon, which receives the protrusion on the bottom surface of the first board PL1, and a fixing member such as a screw is received in the first board connecting portion 324 to fix the first rotating portion 320 to the bottom surface of the first board PL1.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the first rotation guide coupling portion 322 is coupled to the first rotation guide 312 of the guide 310 to guide the rotation of the first rotating part 320 .

[0088] According to the embodiment, the second rotating part 330 has a semi-cylindrical shape as a whole. The second rotating guide coupling part 332 is formed on the surface of the second rotating part 330 facing the guide 310, and the second plate connecting part 334 is formed on the surface of the second rotating part 330 perpendicular to the third direction D3.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the second rotating portion 330 is fixed to the bottom surface of the second panel PL2 by the second panel connecting portion 334. For example, the second panel connecting portion 334 has a recessed portion formed thereon that receives a protrusion on the bottom surface of the second panel PL2, and a fixing member such as a screw is received in the second panel connecting portion 334 to fix the second rotating portion 330 to the bottom surface of the second panel PL2.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the second rotation guide coupling portion 332 is coupled to the second rotation guide 314 of the guide 310 to guide the rotation of the second rotation part 330 .

[0091] According to an embodiment, the guide 310 includes a first rotating guide 312 and a second rotating guide 314 .

[0092] According to an embodiment, the first rotation guide 312 is coupled to the first rotation guide coupling portion 322 of the first rotation part 320 to guide the rotation of the first rotation part 320. The second rotation guide 314 is coupled to the second rotation guide coupling portion 332 of the second rotation part 330 to guide the rotation of the second rotation part 330.

[0093] For example, according to an embodiment, each of the first rotating guide 312 and the second rotating guide 314 is a groove formed on the guide 310. The first rotating guide coupling portion 322 and the second rotating guide coupling portion 332 are protrusions protruding toward the guide 310 on the first rotating portion 320 and the second rotating portion 330, respectively.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the guide 310 further includes a first screw hole 316a and a second screw hole 316b. The guide 310 is fixed to the cover CV by using fixing members such as screws in the first screw hole 316a and the second screw hole 316b.

[0095] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C Shown in Figure 1 The display device is folded when the first component is operated.

[0096] Reference Fig. 8A , according to an embodiment, a cover CV, a cam slider 110 , a cam guide 120 , a first cam rotating portion 130 , and a second cam rotating portion 140 of a first assembly when a display device is unfolded are illustrated.

[0097] Reference Figure 8B According to an embodiment, a flexible display panel of a display device when the display device is folded is shown. When the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2 (see Figure 1 ) When the display device is folded, the first cam rotating part 130 and the second cam rotating part 140 are guided and rotated by the cam guide 120. Here, the first cam inclined portion 132 of the first cam rotating part 130 pushes the first cam guide 112a of the cam slider 110 in the direction F opposite to the second direction D2. Therefore, the second cam guide 112b pushes the second cam inclined portion 142 of the second cam rotating part 140, so that the second cam rotating part 140 rotates. Therefore, the first cam rotating part 130 and the second cam rotating part 140 rotate symmetrically at the same angle. Therefore, the display device can be folded symmetrically, and even if the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the wrinkles of the foldable area FA of the flexible display panel DP can be minimized.

[0098] Reference Figure 8C According to an embodiment, a folded display device is shown. However, even when the display device is unfolded, symmetrical rotation occurs similarly to the above description.

[0099] 9A to 9C Shows when Figure 1 The display device is folded and unfolded when the first component and the second component are operated.

[0100] Reference 9A to 9C According to an embodiment, the first assembly 100 and the second assembly 200 have the same configuration and are installed to be opposite to each other. That is, the first assembly 100 and the second assembly 200 have the same configuration and are symmetrically arranged with respect to the center of the display device in a plan view.

[0101] Therefore, according to the embodiment, the sliding direction of the cam slider 110 of the first assembly 100 and the sliding direction of the cam slider of the second assembly 200 are opposite to each other.

[0102] That is, according to an embodiment, when the display device is folded, in the drawings, the cam slider 110 of the first assembly 100 slides downward, and the cam slider of the second assembly 200 slides upward, as shown by Fig. 9B As indicated by arrow F.

[0103] In addition, according to an embodiment, when the display device is unfolded, in the drawings, the cam slider 110 of the first assembly 100 slides upward, and the cam slider of the second assembly 200 slides downward, as shown by Fig. 9C As indicated by arrow F in FIG.

[0104] Therefore, according to the embodiment, since the first assembly 100 and the second assembly 200 are symmetrically disposed with respect to each other, folding and unfolding of the display device may be more stably performed.

[0105] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B When Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the perimeter of the first component when the display device is unfolded and folded.

[0106] Reference Figure 3 , Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B , the first plate PL1 rotates around the first rotation axis C1 through the cam slider 110, the cam guide 120, the first cam rotating part 130 and the second cam rotating part 140 of the first assembly 100. At the same time, the second plate PL2 rotates around the second rotation axis C2. In this case, as Fig. 10A As shown in FIG. 1 , in the unfolded state, the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 are located on or above the surface of the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2. For example, in the unfolded state, the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 are located on the flexible display panel DP (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 ). The first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 are spaced apart from each other. Optionally, according to another embodiment, the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 coincide with each other.

[0107] On the other hand, according to an embodiment, when the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 are located in the hinge assembly HA or below the flexible display panel DP, if folded and unfolded repeatedly, wrinkles may be formed in the foldable area FA of the flexible display panel DP due to the stretching and contraction of the flexible display panel DP. However, according to the present embodiment, since the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 are positioned on or above the surfaces of the first plate PL1 and the second plate PL2, wrinkles of the foldable area FA of the flexible display panel DP can be minimized even if the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded.

[0108] Fig.11 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig.12 Shows Fig.11 An example of an electronic device is a smart phone.

[0109] Reference Figure 11 to Figure 12 According to an embodiment, the electronic device 500 includes a processor 510, a memory device 520, a storage device 530, an input / output (I / O) device 540, a power supply 550, and a display device 560. Here, the display device 560 corresponds to Figure 1 In addition, the electronic device 500 also includes a plurality of ports for communicating with a video card, a sound card, a memory card, a universal serial bus (USB) device, other electronic devices, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic device 500 is a television. Fig.12 In another exemplary embodiment shown in , the electronic device 500 is a smart phone. However, the embodiment of the electronic device 500 is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device 500 may be one of a cellular phone, a video phone, a smart board, a smart watch, a tablet PC, a car navigation system, a computer display, a laptop computer, or a head mounted display (HMD), etc.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the processor 510 performs a variety of computing functions. The processor 510 may be one of a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), etc. The processor 510 is connected to other components via one of an address bus, a control bus, a data bus, etc. In addition, the processor 510 is connected to an expansion bus, such as a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus. The memory device 520 stores data for the operation of the electronic device 500. For example, the memory device 520 includes at least one non-volatile memory device (such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) device, an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) device, a flash memory device, a phase change random access memory (PRAM) device, a resistive random access memory (RRAM) device, a nano floating gate memory (NFGM) device, a polymer random access memory (PoRAM) device, a magnetic random access memory (MRAM) device, or a ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM) device, etc.) and / or at least one volatile memory device (such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) device, a static random access memory (SRAM) device, or a mobile DRAM device, etc.). The storage device 530 may be one or more of a solid state drive (SSD) device, a hard disk drive (HDD) device, or a CD-ROM device, etc. The I / O device 540 includes an input device such as a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse device, a touch pad, or a touch screen, etc., and an output device such as a printer or a speaker, etc. The power supply 550 provides power for the operation of the electronic device 500.

[0111] According to an embodiment, the display device 560 is connected to other components via a bus or other communication links. In some exemplary embodiments, the display device 560 is included in the I / O device 540. As described above, the display device 560 includes a flexible display panel, a first plate, a second plate, and a hinge assembly. The first plate rotates around a first rotation axis. At the same time, the second plate rotates around a second rotation axis. The display device can be folded symmetrically. Therefore, even if the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the wrinkles of the foldable area of ​​the flexible display panel can be minimized.

[0112] In addition, according to an embodiment, the hinge assembly includes a first assembly including a cam slider, a cam guide, a first cam rotating portion, and a second cam rotating portion. In this case, in the unfolded state, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are positioned on or above the surface of the first plate and the second plate. Therefore, even if the display device is repeatedly folded and unfolded, the wrinkles of the foldable area of ​​the flexible display panel can be minimized. However, since this has been described above, a repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0113] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into organic light-emitting display devices and various other electronic devices including organic light-emitting display devices. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into mobile phones, smart phones, video phones, smart boards, smart watches, tablet PCs, car navigation systems, televisions, computer displays, notebook computers, etc.

[0114] The foregoing is an explanation of the embodiments of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting thereof. Although some exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications can be made in the exemplary embodiments without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present invention. Therefore, all of these modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. Therefore, it will be understood that the foregoing is an explanation of the present invention and should not be construed as being limited to the specific exemplary embodiments disclosed, and modifications to the disclosed exemplary embodiments and other exemplary embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. The embodiments of the present invention are defined by the appended claims, and the equivalents of the claims will be included therein.

Claims

1. Foldable display device, including: Flexible display panels; A first plate and a second plate supporting the flexible display panel, and when the foldable display device is in an unfolded state, the first plate and the second plate are arranged in the same plane; as well as a hinge assembly coupled to the first plate and the second plate, wherein the first plate rotates about a first axis of rotation and simultaneously the second plate rotates about a second axis of rotation, and wherein, in the deployed state, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located on or above the surface of the first plate and the second plate, and The hinge assembly includes a first assembly and a cover for receiving the first assembly, wherein the first assembly includes: a first cam rotating portion, fixed to a lower surface of the first plate, a second cam rotating portion fixed to a lower surface of the second plate, a cam guide fixed to the cover and provided between the first cam rotating portion and the second cam rotating portion to guide rotation of the first cam rotating portion and the second cam rotating portion, and a cam slider that slides in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis as the first cam rotating portion and the second cam rotating portion rotate, wherein the first cam rotating portion of the first assembly includes a first cam inclined portion guided by the cam slider, the first cam inclined portion having a width varying along a curved surface of the first cam rotating portion in the directions of the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis, and The second cam rotating portion of the first assembly includes a second cam inclined portion guided by the cam slider, and the second cam inclined portion has a width that varies along a curved surface of the second cam rotating portion in the directions of the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis.

2. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein The cam guide includes a first rotating guide and a second rotating guide, The first cam rotating part of the first assembly further includes a first rotating guide coupling portion, wherein the first rotating guide coupling portion is coupled to the first rotating guide of the cam guide, the first cam inclined portion is formed on a surface of the first cam rotating part opposite to the first rotating guide coupling portion, and The second cam rotating portion of the first assembly further includes a second rotating guide coupling portion coupled to the second rotating guide of the cam guide, and the second cam inclined portion is formed on a surface of the second cam rotating portion opposite to the second rotating guide coupling portion.

3. The foldable display device according to claim 2, wherein: The cam slider of the first assembly comprises: a first cam guide that guides the first cam inclined portion of the first cam rotating portion; and A second cam guide guides the second cam inclined portion of the second cam rotating portion.

4. The foldable display device according to claim 3, wherein: In the expanded state, the first cam inclined portion and the second cam inclined portion are inclined in the same direction, and the first cam inclined portion and the second cam inclined portion are spaced apart from each other, and the cam guide of the first component is located between the first cam inclined portion and the second cam inclined portion.

5. The foldable display device according to claim 3, wherein: The cam slider of the first assembly comprises: a first fixing portion adjacent to the first cam guide and limiting a rotation range of the first cam rotating portion; and The second fixing portion is adjacent to the second cam guide and limits a rotation range of the second cam rotating portion.

6. The foldable display device according to claim 3, wherein The cam slider of the first assembly includes a sliding opening extending in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis, and The cam guide of the first assembly is fixed to the cover by a fixing member passing through the sliding opening.

7. The foldable display device according to claim 6, wherein The cover includes a sliding protrusion, and The cam slider of the first assembly includes a sliding guide that receives the sliding projection.

8. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The hinge assembly also includes a second component received in the cover, Wherein, the second component comprises: a third cam rotating portion fixed to the lower surface of the first plate; a fourth cam rotating portion fixed to the lower surface of the second plate; a third cam guide provided between the third cam rotating portion and the fourth cam rotating portion, the third cam guide guiding rotation of the third cam rotating portion and the fourth cam rotating portion; and a second cam slider that slides in the direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis as the third cam rotating portion and the fourth cam rotating portion rotate, and Wherein, the first component and the second component are arranged symmetrically relative to the center of the foldable display device in a plan view.

9. The foldable display device according to claim 8, wherein: When the foldable display device is folded or unfolded, a sliding direction of the cam slider of the first assembly is opposite to a sliding direction of the second cam slider of the second assembly.

10. The foldable display device according to claim 9, wherein: The hinge assembly also includes: a third component, received in the cover, Wherein, the third component includes: a first rotating portion fixed to the lower surface of the first plate; a second rotating portion fixed to the lower surface of the second plate; and A guide member is fixed to the cover and disposed between the first rotating portion and the second rotating portion, the guide member guiding rotation of the first rotating portion and the second rotating portion.

11. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: The first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are spaced apart from each other.

12. The foldable display device according to claim 1, wherein: In the unfolded state, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located in the flexible display panel.

13. Display equipment, including: Flexible display panels; A first plate and a second plate, supporting the flexible display panel, wherein the first plate and the second plate rotate around a first rotation axis and a second rotation axis respectively; as well as a hinge assembly coupled to the first plate and the second plate, Wherein, the hinge assembly comprises: The first component includes a first cam rotating portion, fixed to a lower surface of the first plate, a second cam rotating portion, fixed to a lower surface of the second plate, a cam guide provided between the first cam rotating portion and the second cam rotating portion, the cam guide guiding rotation of the first cam rotating portion and the second cam rotating portion, and a cam slider that slides in a direction parallel to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis as the first cam rotating portion and the second cam rotating portion rotate; and a cover that receives the first assembly, wherein the cam guide is fixed to the cover, wherein, when the display device is in the unfolded state, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located on or above the surface of the first plate and the second plate, and wherein the first cam rotating portion of the first assembly includes a first cam inclined portion having a width that varies along a curved surface of the first cam rotating portion in the directions of the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis, and The second cam rotating portion of the first assembly includes a second cam inclined portion guided by the cam slider, and the second cam inclined portion has a width that varies along a curved surface of the second cam rotating portion in the directions of the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis.

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